I've seen the whole USB vs Optical debate before, but not quite in this context. I have a sound card (SB Z) that I'm currently using as a DAC/Amp for my Q701s. I was looking into getting some new hardware (Schiit Modi+Valid), and I need to figure out what I'm doing with the sound card. I can go...

I'm currently using a Sound Blaster Z and a the AKG Q701s, and I'm looking to (potentially) buy an external amp. I was wondering if I could use the TOSLINK optical out on the SBZ with an optical to RCA converter and plug it into an external amp while retaining the surround sound and audio...

I recently put together a simple web-based volume output calculator based on this forum post by tinyman392, and though I'd share it here. You input your headphone impedance (ohms), headphone sensitivity, the max voltage of your audio source (volts), and the volume as a decimal (e.g. 50% volume =...

The headband on my Q701 gives me a headache after about 30-60 minutes of use. I thought that it was bad enough... until I watched this video on nocebos.   http://youtu.be/O2hO4_UEe-4

I've read many a forum post about the Sound Blaster Z being way too loud with low impedance headphones. I'm using it with the Q701 (62 Ohms), and it almost seems too quiet. I'm listening at 100% volume, and it's still within the upper limit of my comfortable listening range. I really don't think...

I'm looking to get myself either a Q701 or K712. At $400, the K712 is a bit out of my budget. I might be willing to make the jump, but only if it's worth it. Otherwise, I'll be getting a Q701 for $220 with the K712 ear pads for $60. Which do you think is the better value?

I'm looking to buy myself my first pair of audiophile grade headphones (Q701) and recently had a revelation...   All of my songs are MP3s!   Unless anyone can persuade me that the 320kbps files from Google Play are detailed enough, I need to go lossless. I'll probably start purchasing my...

Hello all! I've been lurking around and posting here or there to try and find myself a solid pair of headphones under $200. I'm very new to these forums and the audiophile world in general. I plan on using these cans for both gaming(60%) and music(40%), and am looking for a large sound stage...

I'm looking for my first pair of audiophile grade headphones. I'll be using them with surround sound for mostly games, but also a bit of music. I've heard that open headphones are my best bet when it comes to audio quality and directional accuracy. However, closed headphones will give me much...

I've been using a pair of Logitech G35s for over a year now, and I think I need to upgrade. When I first got them, I loved the 7.1 surround sound for gaming and the incredible amount of depth it added to my music. Now I'm thinking of getting a new audio card that supports surround sound and a...