Where would be a good starting point?

[yuuko]

Okay, I'm still new to this and was wondering which headphone rig would be a good starting point for a computer based rig?

I was planning on buying the HD650s paired with a EMU 0404USB as a starting point. But I have a few questions about DAC/AMPs.

1.) Will the Corda Aria be a step up from the 0404 given the higher price tag?
2.) Should I invest in a separate DAC and Amp at the start or do you recommend a DAC/AMP Combo to start?
3.) If you recommend separate DAC and Amp, where would be a good starting point?
4.) How would the price of a simple K701 starting setup compare to the price of a simple HD650 setup, seeing as the K701 require more power etc.?

I'm definitely looking to spend under $1000 but would like to spend around $500-$600 if possible (price includes headphones). Maybe I should save a little more for the HeadRoom Micro Amp + HeadRoom Micro DAC combo.

Source of music will be my computer (FLAC).

[bigshot]

It sounds to me like you're aiming at a good finishing point, not a starting point. Any of the equipment you're talking about will give you good sound.

See ya
Steve

[Steve999]

Corda is overpriced, but the design and craftsmanship are very reliable in my experience, and the ergonomics are very friendly. So I'd go with Corda if you insist on getting something high-priced. The Aria has a DAC. I'd just use that. One good DAC should sound exactly like another.

I have a Corda HA-1 I've always felt I spent too much on ($400), but on the other hand, I've been using it for about 4 years straight now. I have a Behringer mixer that cost me $60 that I use as a headphone amp also, and it's more flexible (tone controls, panning, input sensitivity, etc.). The Corda is more convenient though.

The Corda also seems to be great at avoiding ground loop hum and that kind of thing, which is pretty nice, and it runs very very cool, so it seems like it will last a long time. Mind you, I think it is massively overpriced, but the Cordas are pretty nice if you insist on buying something that pricey, IMHO.

As far as headphones, I think the AKG 701s are more neutral than the HD650s, so, between the two, that's what I'd go for.

My experience is definitely to go Meier over Headroom, based on design judgment, performance, reliability, and craftsmanship.

Originally Posted by yuuko

Okay, I'm still new to this and was wondering which headphone rig would be a good starting point for a computer based rig?

I was planning on buying the HD650s paired with a EMU 0404USB as a starting point. But I have a few questions about DAC/AMPs.

1.) Will the Corda Aria be a step up from the 0404 given the higher price tag?
2.) Should I invest in a separate DAC and Amp at the start or do you recommend a DAC/AMP Combo to start?
3.) If you recommend separate DAC and Amp, where would be a good starting point?
4.) How would the price of a simple K701 starting setup compare to the price of a simple HD650 setup, seeing as the K701 require more power etc.?

I'm definitely looking to spend under $1000 but would like to spend around $500-$600 if possible (price includes headphones). Maybe I should save a little more for the HeadRoom Micro Amp + HeadRoom Micro DAC combo.

Source of music will be my computer (FLAC).

[sejarzo]

Originally Posted by yuuko

I was planning on buying the HD650s paired with a EMU 0404USB as a starting point.............Source of music will be my computer (FLAC).

You have chosen wisely! Just order and start enjoying the music rather than listening for what's wrong with your gear, that trap we all fall into at times.

Seriously, that combination will satisfy for a long time, and you can buy whatever external headamp (balanced or unbalanced) you want, whenever you feel the need.

[slwiser]

www.headphone.com has a nice package that is price right in there. Down on the front page is a link to several package deals you can check out but here is one in particular. Headroom is one of the best places to start your journey cause of their special relationship with our community and great support.

http://www.headphone.com/products/pa...le-package.php

[yuuko]

Message Deleted.

[yuuko]

Okay thanks for the feed back. Yes Steve999 I also agree and think that the Corda is overpriced, but based on pictures it kind of reminds me of my Lian-Li case (also highly priced but excellent craftsmanship). I do know from reading around, that the K701s are far more neutral when compared to the senns, but then the K701s needs more power than the 0404USB can dish out so I think I'll go with the 0404USB and HD650s and when I have more money to spend, I'll buy the K701s + HEED CanAmp. How would I connect the USB 0404 to the HEED if I ever decide to pick up an external amp? Thank your for the input.

[dizzyorange]

Use 1/4" mono to RCA cables. If you ever want to go balanced, use 1/4" stereo to XLR cables. The 1/4" jacks in the back auto-detect if you are using balanced or unbalanced.

Balanced output + AKM4396 DAC for $175, what a deal!

[yuuko]

The only other question I have would be: can the 0404USB power the K701s at all, would it be listenable at all? Or would I definitely have to pick up a HEED Canamp or something? How loud is the K701 though the 0404 though the hp out on the 0404, with everything cranked up to max (computer volume, foobar2000, 0404USB)? The biggest advantage I think the K701 has over the HD650s for me would be the fact that it's supposed to display female voices very well, and I listen to a lot of music with female voices.

[freakmax]

I don't own the 0404USB but I wanna tell you that K701 +ipod headphone out , I get moderate volume and it sounds ok.
So there would not be problem for 0404 +K701.( but you need an amp to reach the peak performance.)