Looking for some advice - Headphones/DAC/Amp
Mar 4, 2014 at 10:38 PM Post #16 of 19
  I do have a reasonably powerful surround sound system, so in that respect, I guess I am glad I have the card I have. I looked at the review of my card on this site and it appears I do not have "multiple discrete DACs". Not 100% sure how bad that is haha.

 
That basically means having several DACs with their own circuits, whether it's literally one for each channel as on some stereo sources and high-end HT systems, or in some cases, one for Left Front and Left Surround, one for Right Front and Right Surround, and one for Center (I think), and in addition to that dedicated DAC channel you have power caps and output opamps. Your soundcard likely uses one multi-channel DAC like on video players with analog surround outputs, as well as on affordable HT receivers. If anything the reason why you might need a separate DAC is because you're out of (Front) analog outputs to the headphone amp, if these are hooked up to speakers already.
 
Mar 5, 2014 at 12:10 AM Post #17 of 19
Another DAC/amp choice is the C5D that is portable. It costs something like $265. I am listening to it right now. I have a pair of 300-ohm DT880s that it does a good job powering.  IMO this provides very good fidelity for a portable unit. Oh yes, it comes with bass boost.
 
Bob Graham
 
Mar 5, 2014 at 12:18 AM Post #18 of 19
  Another DAC/amp choice is the C5D that is portable. It costs something like $265. I am listening to it right now. I have a pair of 300-ohm DT880s that it does a good job powering.  IMO this provides very good fidelity for a portable unit. Oh yes, it comes with bass boost.
 
Bob Graham

 
I haven't heard that one yet, but I'm guessing it's good because John knows what he's doing. Yup, I'm a very satisfied customer.
 

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