Computer CD players

[Allan Passmore]

I need to know whether it's possible to set up a sound system using the
CD/DVD in my computer, which will match an upper level micro (bookshelf)
"hifi" system in sound quality.

I had been planning to buy a Sony or Panasonic system for about AUS$550
(US$385), or a Yamaha system for about AUS$900.00 (US$630.00). However, I
also need to buy a new computer, which will be a G5 iMac, and it occurred to
me that it may not be necessary to buy a bookshelf hifi system as well,
provided I have good quality speakers attached to the iMac.

I have done all sorts of searches on the Web and in groups looking for the
answer to this question without success - perhaps there are no answers
because to an audiophile it's a stupid question; I don't know, because I'm
not an audiophile - I just want to be able to listen to good quality audio
reproduction of classical music in my study.

I would be very grateful for an answer to the question about the
possibilities in the first paragraph, and if it can be done, I would
appreciate suggestions as to specific equipment.

Kind regards

Allan Passmore