[yayomizzan]

This is going to be my first amp purchase so I'm really still learning most of this stuff.

I've been looking at portable options but realized I don't actually need or want portability. A combo would be nice but if a separate dac and amp with a combined price of <275 sounded better then I'm all for it. Would I find something much better than the D10 which is at this price?

Will be using this only with my laptop so USB is essential. any advice appreciated! thanks!

 

[Rinshin]

Gonna go with the FOTM here and say Compass. It's going to be a bit out of your budget at 312 after shipping (assuming you are in the states), but from the rave reviews it has been getting here on Head-Fi I think it can be safely assumed that it is a good buy!

 

[Dat_Dude]

x2. The Compass is amazing for the price.

 

[DiscHead]

Read the Compass thread. It is exactly what you are looking for.

 

[Mystere]

Pass on the D10. I have it and am returning it b/c it was only slightly better then my onboard sound. I'm contemplating the compass since it continues to be highly recommended.

 

[Drag0n]

I like my Alien Dac, but ive only listened to a few dacs, and none over $200, but out of what ive heard, i like this the best. The other dacs were like external usb sound cards from Creative etc.
Alien Dacs are between $80-150 depending on who builds it and the case and other features.

 

[kool bubba ice]

LITE AMP/DAC combo 259.00, even supports XLR outs!!

 

[lescanard]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mystere /img/forum/go_quote.gif Pass on the D10. I have it and am returning it b/c it was only slightly better then my onboard sound. I'm contemplating the compass since it continues to be highly recommended.

Have to take issue with this - I received my d10 the other day - have about 20 hours on it but running it out of my Macbook via optical (also tried usb early on but will stick with optical as its a better choice) - this is an incredibly impressive unit with a ton of options. There is not a chance that it sounds only slightly better than an onboard. Absolutely love this!

 

[lescanard]

BTW...sorry but forgot to mention - ordered - shipped in about 4 days and arrived 1 day from China to Buffalo NY and under $300 delivered.

 

[sachu]

Going to suggest a Cavalli audio CTH + Y1 DAC combo..