I'm thinking about getting a balanced amp and was wondering if a balanced DAC is actually necessary or not for the setup (eg would a mjolnir and bifrost work basically as well as a mjolnir and gungnir)?

What I'm looking for is basically a SS version of the Lyr I have now. So what amps are out there that deliver that kind of power, without being balanced and also <1k?

Can someone explain to me why it seems most end game setups are "balanced" setups? Does it actually provide any difference in sound quality? Is it just another way to throw money at the hobby or actually worth it for those wanting to upgrade sound quality?   Thanks!

Is there a way to tell if you have a decent on board DAC? I have a ASRock B85, but can't tell from a simple google search if it's decent or not. (a little context, I'm planning on upgrading from DT990s to HD650, but deciding whether to get just an amp or amp/dac combo). Thanks guys!