this is basically my dream amp, I'll probably get the one from mayflower electronics if i can secure the funds.  Thanks for your input.

Basically my situation is that I have a xonar essence stx in my main rig which does a fabulous job powering my Q701s when I'm at home.  When I'm at school/ away I have been using my Q701's with my onboard realtek audio on my MSI GS70 Stealth gaming laptop.  In doing this i have noticed a...

Thanks to you and rubinstein for the helpful and informed feedback!  I've decided to go with the essence stx for quality and future upgradeability.  All the best!  -SierackiCello

I was also considering getting an asus xonar essence stx for a larger upgrade (and eventually getting higher end headphones)  would that be a viable option (especially because i would be using it for a fair bit of pc gaming)?

any notable differences between the two?

Hi!  I've had a pair of akg studio 240s for six years now (since back from when they were made in Austria not China) and I have been considering the best way to upgrade my audio setup. What is the best soundcard or amp/dac that would suit the AKG studio 240s.  Many thanks!