About 4 or 5 weeks ago, I was reminded that I really enjoy listening to good music on good equipment. It started as some basic research into desktop speakers, but it's resulted in hours and hours of reading, a few purchases (Mackie monitors), and a tremendous list of questions.
I've done enough research to decide that I'd like to purchase a set of HD600s.Then, I'll purchase a BH Crack. What I need is a DAC (more accurately, an upgrade from my current DAC) and a switching device.
When I start to consider the combination of sources and outputs, I can imagine that my setup could get complicated fairly quickly. I find the idea of a simple solution like the Maverick D1 or Matrix Mini-i appealing. However, I'm not sure that either of them is up to the task.
Current "chain":
PC/USB (Foobar or Rhythmbox) > NuForce uDac2 > Mackie MR5 or Ety ER4P
(gaming) PC > Xonar DG > Ety
Future "chain":
PC/USB > <new pre-amp> > RCA (or XLR) > Mackie MR5
PC/USB > <new pre-amp> > RCA > BH Crack > HD600
PC/USB > <new pre-amp> > Ety ER4P
PC > Xonar DG/Toslink > <new pre-amp> > HD600 (Xonar does Dolby Headphone processing)
To be able to do this without juggling cables, I see the need for 2 inputs and 3 outs.
I've considered using the Xonar as my source for all music (and gaming), it simplifies the problem, but does not eliminate the need for a pre-amp that can switch a few sets of outputs.
Is there a DAC/pre-amp that can handle this? Is there a better way?
Please, help, I'm open to suggestions. Thanks in advance!
