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Usb amp/dac for HD-25-1 II (for under $150 or so)

post #1 of 8
3/29/11 at 4:36am
Thread Starter 

Hi,

 

while I understand that similar questions might have been asked before, I need help with my specific situation. Right now I'm running my cable-modded HD-25-1 II's directly from my computer (built in Realtek HD Audio). As this is my work computer I cannot install a soundcard but I still would like to upgrade my system. The hiss for one is a turn off.

 

What should I invest in? What amp/dac combination would work well with this setup? Something external, preferably USB would be perfect. FiiO E9? Something portable??

Suggestions please! biggrin.gif

 

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Gear mentioned in this thread:

Sennheiser HD 25-1 II Professional Headphone
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FiiO E9 Desktop Headphone Amplifier and Dock for E7 USB DAC
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post #2 of 8
3/29/11 at 5:01am


Depends on what you want. Right now I am using my portable amp (Stepdance) directly with the on board card of my PC at work. The on board is the latest Realtek ALC889 and I have to confess that it sounds similar and perhaps even better as my Cantate.2 hooked up by USB IMO. Okee it is sufficient for me right now but I am planning to upgrade one day to an external DAC :)

 

Concenring the $150 maximum I would say it is worth to try an amp without DAC section first deoending on your internal soundcard..


Edited by monoethylene - 3/29/11 at 5:26am
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post #3 of 8
3/29/11 at 5:38am
Thread Starter 

True, but at the same time I'm not very convinced a bout the internal soundcard (hissing and so on)

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post #4 of 8
3/29/11 at 6:02am

hm, I cannot complain with my setup but the Stepdance itself is a very good amp..

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post #5 of 8
3/29/11 at 7:03am

Fiio e7

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post #6 of 8
3/29/11 at 3:55pm

E-MU 0204 USB.

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post #7 of 8
3/29/11 at 6:57pm

I'm actually listening to my HD25-1 II's through a FiiO E7 (DAC/Amp) as I write this.  It's quite amazing compared to the HD25's unamped.  Dead quiet, dynamic and perfect for the HD25's.  I've just ordered the E9 to mate & drive my HD600's. Highly recommended.

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post #8 of 8
3/31/11 at 5:57am
Thread Starter 

Hm, both the E7 and the E-MU 0204 look very interesting. Anybody have experience with both 0204 and HD25-1 II'?

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Gear mentioned in this thread:

Sennheiser HD 25-1 II Professional Headphone
Powered by NexTag
FiiO E9 Desktop Headphone Amplifier and Dock for E7 USB DAC
Powered by NexTag
Head-Fi.org › Forums › Equipment Forums › Headphone Amps (full-size) › Usb amp/dac for HD-25-1 II (for under $150 or so)