I wanted a high-end desktop 2.1 system - After much research and sound trials, I ended up combining the Fiio Alpen E17 DAC and the E09K Desktop Amp for a powerful combination together with 2 Adam A5Xs and the Sub7 bass.   The sound is amazing for near field monitors - very neutral - and the highs are brilliant (due the the X-Art tweeters) - Although these speakers are active and have their own amplification, when combined together with a decent DAC and additional amplification, they really shine.  For the price performance, they really offer studio...