I dont know if I phrasing my questions wrong or what, I guess I am having trouble expressing what I am looking for...

I am currently running my hd 650s from my computer mainly mostly strait out of the audigy 2zspp as I dont enjoy the distortion that the pa2v2 causes at higher volumes. I am looking for the best bang for my buck upgrade based on these criteria.

-Around $400ish total
-More volume without distortion
-Stronger bass (louder and less sloppy more impact)
-Cant rely on more money down the road
-Good synergy with the 650s (I dont want to change cans anytime soon)

I have been thinking about the emu0404 and the glite as my next steps, but just havent found any clear evidence that this combo will give me what I want to hear.

Has anyone had any experience with this setup ?

Does anyone have any more suggestions for around $400.00 as that is pretty much my max for awhile ?

My main beef with my rig right now is the distortion in the bass at even moderately high levels, and the lack of ability to drive my 650s to high volumes when I want to listen to some really loud tunes with good clarity.

Am I asking for to much? because I sure hope my 650s can get louder without distortion...

I can't compare the EMU or Creative, but I do know if I had $400 to spend, and was computer based, I'd be eyeing the Corda Aria DAC/amp combo or the Firestone products.

"More volume without distortion": I'm also thinking the Corda Aria from Jan. For $395--if you buy it soon--it is in your price range, runs off usb, gives you an outboard dac and a headamp. I'd buy it if I had the money. Right now I have a seperate dac and Jan's Corda amp, but I am tempted by an all-in-one package.

get the aria and be done with it