Musical Fidelity V-LINK II is an improvement to the original V-LINK and allows you to convert USB to S/PDIF with asynchronous USB to use your computer with a DAC that doesn't have a USB input. With tweaks to improve performance and all new metal casing, the V-LINK 2 is one of the best S/PDIF converters available.
With the increased use of PCs and Macs as serious hi-fi quality music sources (especially with availability of high res files like FLAC), getting the best connection to your computer is vital to enjoy the best quality sound throguh your hi-fi system. Generally, sound cards will be built to budget rather than sound quality and won't offer the best possible quality connection for your hi-fi. A USB connection will bypass your sound card's DAC, providing a pure digital connection you can use with a quality DAC.
If you already have a DAC to use with your PC but it doesn't include a USB input, you need the V-LINK II connected inbetween. If you don't have a DAC and you need one, we'd recommend the Musical Fidelity VDAC II, which includes a USB input.