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Suggestions for USB Devices for Grado RS-2s?

post #1 of 4
10/31/07 at 5:33am
Thread Starter 
I purchased Grado RS-2s a while back with the intention of upgrading my desktop setup enough to give these cans a decent source and amplification. However my desktop got fried and I now have to start from scratch.

I am now using my laptop soundcard to drive my RS-2s and have no plans of buying another desktop. Obviously my laptop soundcard is doing a VERY poor job but I am looking around for something that will at least realize some of the potential of these cans for the time being. From following this forum I have been thinking an EMU-0404 or maybe an M-Audio Audiophile would be what I'm looking for but wanted to explore my options. Anyone have any suggestions for USB devices/my upgrade path or comments?
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post #2 of 4
10/31/07 at 5:41am
I've just bought a Keces PCM2702... Not very portable, but apparently sounds great.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...MEWA:IT&ih=006

I haven't received it yet (it was shipped yesterday) but I'll let you know what I think when I get it.

I tried the EMU 0404 and my initial impression was that it had far too many bells and whistles for what I require... I just want good old fashioned stereo RCA output, which is what the Keces gives.
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post #3 of 4
10/31/07 at 6:04am
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by MrJoshua View Post
I've just bought a Keces PCM2702... Not very portable, but apparently sounds great.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...MEWA:IT&ih=006

I haven't received it yet (it was shipped yesterday) but I'll let you know what I think when I get it.

I tried the EMU 0404 and my initial impression was that it had far too many bells and whistles for what I require... I just want good old fashioned stereo RCA output, which is what the Keces gives.
I would definitely appreciate the update. Like you, I don't care if its portable, or includes some other random features I will never use. Just care how it sounds.
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post #4 of 4
10/31/07 at 6:10am
From reading other threads, it seems the 0404 uses a better DAC chip, but that isn't everything...

One of the downsides of the 0404 for me was that it only had a 3.5mm socket for analogue stereo output (I like RCA), and I just felt that the cost was too high for me because I wouldn't use any of the other features.

I'm sure if you want to use it with an external DAC (using it's TOSLINK or Co-Axial Digital outputs) or use a microphone etc, it's most likely worth it, but for me, not so much.

I'll let you know what I think of the Keces when it arrives.
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