Right now I use an Audigy 2 ZS(PCI) and Logitech Z2300, both of which I'd like to replace. Mostly I listen to mp3's, watch movies, and do a little gaming. I could re-rip most of my music into higher quality BTW, so that's not really an issue.
My budget is ~$300(US). I'm considering
Audioengine A2s and
EMU 0202 USB
but first let me make sure I got some things straight since I'm new to all this stuff.
1)You either use the DAC built into your sound card/motherboard, pass on the conversion responsibilities to an external DAC via SPDIF, or take the soundcard/onboard out of the equation by going with a USB DAC. So I could remove the Audigy from my computer if I get the 0202.
2)The A2's are powered speakers so I could connect them directly to most any DAC. No separate amp needed in between.
3)You shouldn't send an amped signal to powered speakers.
Correct? So with all that said...
If anyone could suggest better configuration that fits the following criteria, that would be appreciated.
a)I prefer a USB DAC because I may switch to a laptop soon.
b)If it even exists, I would like a DAC with a built-in headphone amp that can also output un-amped to whatever powered speakers I end up buying, that is if #3 up there is correct. If not then I just want a built-in headphone amp.
c)I want to easily switch between using headphones and using speakers regularly.
d)I prefer powered speakers.
Thanks
My budget is ~$300(US). I'm considering
Audioengine A2s and
EMU 0202 USB
but first let me make sure I got some things straight since I'm new to all this stuff.
1)You either use the DAC built into your sound card/motherboard, pass on the conversion responsibilities to an external DAC via SPDIF, or take the soundcard/onboard out of the equation by going with a USB DAC. So I could remove the Audigy from my computer if I get the 0202.
2)The A2's are powered speakers so I could connect them directly to most any DAC. No separate amp needed in between.
3)You shouldn't send an amped signal to powered speakers.
Correct? So with all that said...
If anyone could suggest better configuration that fits the following criteria, that would be appreciated.
a)I prefer a USB DAC because I may switch to a laptop soon.
b)If it even exists, I would like a DAC with a built-in headphone amp that can also output un-amped to whatever powered speakers I end up buying, that is if #3 up there is correct. If not then I just want a built-in headphone amp.
c)I want to easily switch between using headphones and using speakers regularly.
d)I prefer powered speakers.
Thanks
