[Retrias]

So I just got beyer Dt5130 , obviously I want to try to get the best I can get with this headphones , so I am going to try and get both an external soundcard and an amp. So I have read here and there and watch videos. I was deciding on fiio e17 , but then I read the headfi buying guide. What is the actual difference in term of functionality and quality of the
1. Fiio e17
2. Fiio e10
3. Fiio e7
I want something that can be both and amp and a USB Dac for my PC , I am currently using an Ipod touch , But I would be getting a galaxy note 2 sometimes later , which one is the best for me?

 

[punks15]

Fiio e17 : can be used as a usb dac, also as an portable amp
Fiio e10 : only can be used as a usb dac

IMO e7 is a step down in terms of SQ

 

[Retrias]

Nearly all of the sites listed e10 also a headphone ampli though ,so did head fi buying guide last time I check it

 

[punks15]

Headphone amplifier is included on E10, but you cannot use the ampifier separately like E7/E17
 
If you're using E17/E7, you can use it as a usb dac/amp, you can use it as a standalone dac and connect it to another amplifier, and you can use it as an amplifier and connect it with idevices for example.
 
If you're using E10, you can use it as a usb dac/amp, you can use it as a standalone dac and connect it to another amplifier, but you cannot use it as an amplifier so you're stuck with usb connection