[Tosi]

I've been searching for a perfect solution for quite some time now... My current setup is a laptop connected to a LARGE 7.1 receiver (RCA to 3.5) with a pair of Rokit5's attached and my Senn 595's plugged into the receiver when I need to. This is all fine and dandy but the receiver is far too bulky for my new apartment and I need to downsize somehow.
 
After researching a bit it seems like what I need is a DAC / amp combo with pre tube outs for the powered monitors. What would be the best piece of equipment that will get the job done? Hoping for a single unit and it would be a HUGE plus if in the future I had the option of adding my Klipsch KSW-10 sub to the mix but it is not a requirement. Price range is flexible for something perfect but I'm hoping to stay below $300.
 
Top of the list at the moment are:
 
Maverick A1
Matrix M-Stage USB
 
but they still aren't EXACTLY what I need --- so I gave in and figured I'd come to the experts for some input!

 

[Tosi]

nada?

 

[alv4426]

the matrix mini-i is almost in budget. there was one in the for sale section for $200ish I think about 1-2 weeks ago.
 
I am using a Dr.DAC2 DX which I got really cheap on ebay, is super small (I downsized too), and I have been very happy with it so far.

 

[Tosi]

I had seen the mini-i and forgot to list it... If I can snag one for under $250 then I'll bit, thanks for reminding me !
 
edit: would I be able to connect a powered subwoofer to the mini-i in the future (maybe with that coaxial RCA out) ?

 

[Hellbishop]

I just picked up some Cerwin Vega XD3 powered desktop speakers earlier this week at Best Buy. The sound on them is really satisfying giving me a full stereo setup audio quality that beats the Polk Tsi100 bookshelf speakers that were connected to my Onkyo TX-8555 stereo reciever which is connected to the pc.
 
Right now am running them straight from the pc and sitting on some Auralex Mopads to keep away any unwanted vibrations and resonance. They sound great with a very clean clear sound thats very balanced. Vocals are probably the best i have heard and instrument separation is very good with the treble and bass not overpowering one another.
 
I can see now why alot of people on this forum are pushing active powered speakers compared to passive ones when the sound coming from them is so enjoyable with no worries about clutter. Am actually tempted to put away my Onkyo TX-8555 stereo reciever and my other passive bookshelf collection of Jbl Control One and Insignia Bass Reflex B2111 etc. These play low enough with plenty of detail that i can use them at night with no worries and during the day play loud enough that am barely going past what would be the 1 spot on the volume knob.
 
Here are a few reviews on the Cerwin Vega XD3-
 
http://computershopper.com/peripherals/reviews/cerwin-vega-xd3-powered-desktop-speakers
 
http://www.techreaction.net/2012/01/26/review-cerwin-vega-xd3-desktop-speakers/
 
http://www.pcper.com/reviews/General-Tech/Cerwin-Vega-XD3-Powered-Desktop-Speaker-Review/Detailed-Look
 
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Cerwin+Vega+-+2.0+Powered+Desktop+Speaker+(2-Piece)/2631008.p?skuId=2631008&id=1218341074734#tabbed-customerreviews