Best currency conversion for US$ cheque

[Dicette]

I have a cheque for $14K (US$).
This is a one-off occurrence from the sale of shares.
I have looked at the key post on currency conversion – but my understanding is that currency brokers don’t accept cheques.
In order to get the best rate of conversion, is my only option to negotiate with my bank?

 

[arbitron]

You could open a US bank account, lodge the cheque to that, then use an online broker to transfer.

Several large US banks allow non-residents to open fee-free accounts, e.g. Bank of America.