I have read it is better to maximize Windows volume and to do any volume adjustments within the application's own mixer settings or the game's volume sliders. This is supposed to reduce "clipping" and also gives more dynamic range. For headphone users without any external volume controls, I'm...

Before I start, keep in mind I'm strictly speaking about bit-depth only. Sampling rates, upsampling, resampling, etc. are a whole different discussion. I've read you should preferably match your bit-depth (in Windows) to the source you're listening to. For example, if you're listening to a CD...

Using a ASUS Xonar ST sound card with integrated headphone amp. The headphone amp is rated to drive up to 600 ohms.   Looking to pair the sound card up with some Beyerdynamics headphones (DT880's or DT990's, haven't decided).   Leaning towards the 600 ohm versions to maximize the...

This sounds too good to be true:   http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829132020&Tpk=asus%20xonar%20dg   It's a soundcard with a built-in headphone amp.  And it's only $30.00 USD.  It also has a $10 mail-in rebate so that would make the final price $20.   I've read...

Hey all, I'm new to these forums so allow me to introduce myself.  My name is Steve and I've had a life long passion for audio.  I do consider myself an audiophile and a very finicky one at that.   I've been in the market for a decent set of headphones for a few months now.  I've done a...