Neutral DAC

[jcfs]

Just wanted to see if you guys could check my reasoning:

I will be using the DAC primarily for music production (hip-hop).

Question 1: DAC improves the sound quality when connected to both monitor speakers and headphones, right?

In that case, I will want the DAC to be:
Question 2: as neutral as possible, with very clear and accurate lows and mids (will be producing hip-hop, primarily), right?

Assuming that my assumptions are correct, i have searched all over the forums, but am still having a hard time deciding.
Question 3: Which DAC would suit my purpose? Budget: maximum 1000$; preferred 200-600$

Gracias friends.

[WorldsEndWombat]

Lavry DA10, a bit over budget but within your cap
Lavry DA10 vs Benchmark DAC1: DEATHMATCH! - Topic Powered by eve community

[majkel]

Mytek, Apogee MiniDAC

[FallenAngel]

1) No, a DAC is a Digital to Analog Converter. It does not improve anything; it converts digital audio streams into analog audio streams. If you are using a digital source, you will have one in the signal path, selecting one that is good over a bad one will improve sound quality.

[CSMR]

Originally Posted by jcfs

Question 1: DAC improves the sound quality when connected to both monitor speakers and headphones, right?

Answered by FallenAngel.

In that case, I will want the DAC to be:
Question 2: as neutral as possible...right?

I would say absolutely yes.

Question 3: Which DAC would suit my purpose? Budget: maximum 1000$; preferred 200-600$

You probably want a soundcard as you are posting in the computer forum.
For music production you need to know what features you want in the soundcard: inputs and outputs, latency, routing, asio, etc..
From the sound of it you have a bit of reading to do before you can get started with audio production.