I will not be using the analog section of the empeg. I am installing the digital output card, and running i2s into a cusom processor i have modified. Sound quality is important in this installation. I have an iriver h120 modded and rockbox installed for FLAC payback over optical. I just want the much slicker interface of the empeg. Whereas you all are correct, with roadnoise it make litte difference FLAC vs LAME, but at a standstill when you are demoing your installation, that is when it matters. I am crazy. I spent over $2000 on servo controlled velodyne subwoofers, have LCY130 ribbons installed that play flat out to 60khz, and am using seas lotus midbass drivers and hybrid tube amps. I have even constructed my own cd transport for the car. I am simply trying to replace the iriver with the empeg.
Thanks
Hans