I think I have a basic understanding of sound cards, DAC's etc. Let me underscore basic.
Objectives:
Primary - is to be able to listen to audiophile quality music using my computer as the primary source (assume I have the best ripping and compression software). I use headphones and speakers interchangebly, 50/50.
Secondary - gaming, meaning, I want to be able to experience the virtual dolby/eax effects provided in most gaming sound cards at least through my headphones and preferably with both headphones and speakers. I use headphones and speakers interchangebly, 50/50.
I am somewhat happy with my current set-up, but feel I am missing some things on the music side of the house. Namely:
1.) soundstage - Depth, height, etc, - I don't fell like I am in the audience, but like someone with a 2.1 speaker system. There is a center stage, usually the main vocalist, but everything else sounds like it is coming out of either the left or right speakers.
2.) Warmth - Although the Bose speakers re-create the trebles and bass (via the sub unit), I have a feeling of jaggedness, on edge all the time, it's kind of hard to explain, just not warm I guess. I like strong, thumpy, but not boomy bass, crystal clear highs and enriched mids.
Equipment -
PC - Intel based - Very high end custom built by me
Sound Card - Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium Fatal1ty Champion Series Sound Card w/ I/O
Headphones - AKG K601, Dr. Dre Beats Studio (Monster Cable)
Speakers - Bose Companion 3 series (they don't make these anymore, so companion 5 would be the closest)
I have a space of about 20ft by 18ft, price is important, but the outcome is more important.
How do I get the best musicality while continuing to be able to hear my opponents wherever around me they may be in gamng?
Thank you for any help you can provide.
Mike
