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From Essence ST to Gamma2/others, worth upgrading?

post #1 of 7
9/24/11 at 2:01am
Thread Starter 

After half a year with this card I'm suffering from upgraditis. The ST is pretty good for the money but I think my headphones can deliver more. My experience with sources is rather low, I went from X-Fi card to the ST and that's it.

 

I listen to all kind of genres and my music is mostly FLAC. Main phones: DT880 250ohm and AKG K701.

 

The gamma2 is $330 so anything around the same price (350) is my budget for other recomendations.

 

I don't expect a night-day difference but don't want to spend hundreds for a 5% improve. Otherwise I'll keep the card.

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post #2 of 7
9/24/11 at 9:37am

Hello,

 

i used to have the asus ST and upgraded to the Cantatis Overture 192 with a day - night difference to my opinion.

 

Asus ST sound is impressive at first but it is harsh and tiring after some time of listening.

 

The one i recommend to you produces SWEEEEET MUSIC.

 

the link: http://www.cantatis.co.uk/

 

When you register i think you get a better price.

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post #3 of 7
9/26/11 at 12:16pm
Thread Starter 

That seems good but I'm leaning towards an external solution. I'll do my research on that though.

 

Thanks

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post #4 of 7
9/26/11 at 12:44pm

Wait and save up, in a few more months and Asus Xonar Essence One will fly to your rescue.

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post #5 of 7
9/27/11 at 12:30am

Alternatively, keep the Essence as an excellent DAC and look at external amps, with particular attention paid to ensuring they have low output impedances.

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post #6 of 7
9/27/11 at 6:15am

You can also keep the Essence ST as an deticated coxial digital output, it'll make a huge difference from your standard  SPDIF motherboard output.

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post #7 of 7
9/27/11 at 6:44am

It really won't.

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