I'm thinking of ordering a ZMF Atmos C cable, which offers many different termination styles, but I had a question about using it with the iFi Nano iDSD BL amp/DAC (link) Front inputs: 2 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm headphone outputs, compatible with balanced wiring (one direct and one with integrated iFi...

Hi everyone,   I'm new to DAC's, and bought the TubeMagic D1 about a week ago to accompany a new pair of headphones (Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro's 250ohm). I hooked it up to my Mac Mini using USB, and I'm hearing some interference -- not loud, but it's there. Can anyone help me understand...

Well, my budget was very small, and before this I was going to get the NuForce uDAC-2, so I think I'll be okay. I'd be shocked if a DAC right at the top of the list at head-fi didn't sound great to an audiophile-newbie like myself. Never even heard music through a DAC before.  

Well, I went with the Maverick TubeMagic D1 DAC. Above what I wanted to spend, but given all the great reviews, I doubt I'll regret it. I'm about to enter the world of high fidelity!

Quote: Any suggestions for an alternative?

Quote:   Willakan, I know it's primarily a DAC, but would the NuForce Icon uDAC-2 be able to power these headphones?    

It seems like there are several reviews stating problems with the build quality and connectors on the Fiio E9. That makes me pretty nervous about spending the money on it.

  Quote: Thanks for being so helpful on this. My budget is very slim, so I won't be able to afford anything near the quality of your Headroom Ultra.  The highest I could go is $150, tops. Out of curiousity: why will my headphones (250 ohm) sound better powered by the amp, rather than...

Thanks for the responses!   I've been reading lots of reviews and specs, both on head-fi and other sites, and as far as cans go I think I'm gonna order the Beyerdynamic DT-770 PRO (250 ohm). I'm new to audiophile headphones, but I knew my requirements: budget < $175, neutral, accurate sound...

This will only take a sec!   I'm looking into headphone amps, but don't know whether I need a desktop amp or a portable. I guess what I'm asking is: are all portable amps battery-driven, and wouldn't that be a pain recharging them all the time? As a video editor who also does a fair amount...