It's a good day in the world of hi-fi 2.0. USB is the second most important technology for the future of high-end audio (the iPod being the first, of course) and the sooner we embrace computer audio, the better.

In any case, Bel Canto, makers of highly regarded digital devices, jumps into the glorious USB world with their new DAC3. Bel Canto's previous DAC efforts won loads of praise and the new DAC3 should slay the reviewing channels as well. $2000 gives you both USB inputs and antiquated connections as well as an optional volume knob for an estimated $500. Upsampling included. No word if the DAC3 uses I2S technology, the purest digital connection, but whatever it uses, I expect it to sound great. (news via 6Moons)

Rumor has it Hovland, makers of expensive and, dare I say, beautiful components, has a super premium USB DAC coming out soon. No doubt wrapped in polished steel, frosted glass and blue LEDs, expect a good deal of drool on these pages when it lands.