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I have an RE0. I'm looking for a DAC/AMP... Maybe.

post #1 of 5
6/19/10 at 2:59pm
Thread Starter 

First of all, I'm a beginner when it comes to high-fidelity audio. I don't even know what a DAC stands for. I tried looking through this site to find some 'beginner's guide' sort of article but I failed.

 

I love the RE0. I'm currently using my laptop (lenovo thinkpad t400) when listening to flac files and iphone 3G on the go. From what I could understand reading threads on this forum, I believe a DAC/AMP will suit my desire to further explore the greatness of RE0 (or any other IEM).

 

Am I on the right track? If so, do you have any recommendations? I've been looking at the Ibasso site but its hard for me to discern the difference between their different products. My price range is $100-$250.

 

Also, can you point me to an article/site that explains the basics of DAC/AMPs and any other high fidelity audio information for beginners?

 

Any suggestions you have will greatly benefit me. 

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Gear mentioned in this thread:

HEAD-DIRECT RE0 In-ear Headphones
FiiO E7 USB DAC and Portable Headphone Amplifier (Black)
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post #2 of 5
6/19/10 at 9:37pm

Newbie here to.  DAC = Digital to Analog Converter. 

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post #3 of 5
6/20/10 at 12:08am
Thread Starter 

Thanks for letting me know!

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post #4 of 5
6/20/10 at 6:02am

I would look into the Fiio E7. It is actually lower than your price point. You can get it for like $99 =) Everyone has amazing reviews about it and it seems like it is currently one of the best options to go for portable amps and for dac's. It is one of the cheapest DAC's on the market, and also functions as an amp on the go. I think the Fiio E7 would make you happy =)

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post #5 of 5
6/24/10 at 12:07pm

How's that E7 compare to the Nuforce Icon Mobile?

 

Also, I don't recommend starting off with a cheap amp, just shoot for something better and don't look back.

Yes, there's not a drastic difference between portable amps paired with portable media players, and that is exactly why you should forget the cheap stuff if you can and especially not go the route of "climbing" through portable amps.

 

You'll love your RE0 with a more refined-sounding amp better. You won't need a DAC with the iPhone as it already has its own built in or else you wouldn't get music through the headphone jack, but if you want better sound from your laptop as well, then an amp/dac combo is a good idea. A line-out dock for your iphone will be good combination with a portable amp and there are several Head-fiers who can make one for you or you could buy one from somewhere.

You should consider the iBasso D4 Mamba, I think. No need to bother with Fiio amps with a budget like that, no offense intended.

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Gear mentioned in this thread:

HEAD-DIRECT RE0 In-ear Headphones
FiiO E7 USB DAC and Portable Headphone Amplifier (Black)
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Head-Fi.org › Forums › Equipment Forums › Portable Headphone Amps › I have an RE0. I'm looking for a DAC/AMP... Maybe.