[Kaidao]

Hi, new member here. I've lurked around a lot and finally decided to join. Anyways, I'm looking to upgrade my speakers from the Samson studiodock 4i monitors I have right now. It'll be solely for my desktop computer in a room about 17x13 in size. I listen to all kinds of music, except country really. Also I can't have too much bass...I've already got some noise complaints. I'm really looking for nice, clear sound.

Right now the Samsons are directly connected to my pc through USB. I currently don't have a sound card in my computer. So I'm looking to upgrade my audio system with about 300$, but I'm flexible on the price if it's a vast improvement.

I know I want a dac or amp (what's the difference?) so I can upgrade later on if I want. Would I still need a sound card? And also what monitors should I get? The audioengine a5's seem nice but are a little pricey. What would you guys recommend?

Thanks

 

[joe_cool]

My friend uses the M-Audio Revolution 7.1 with a pair of M-Audio AV-40 powered speakers. There's not a lot of bass but the sound is very clear and musical. Seems like a similar setup to what you have. I don't see how to replace your system for less than $200 but you might consider an internal sound card to upgrade the sound with your current speakers.

 

[Kaidao]

Would an internal sound card help with my current speakers? I think the speakers themselves have a sound card, that's why it's plugged in through USB. It would override any onboard sound card I have. I was looking more for recommendations about good monitor/DAC combos or anything. Like I said, my budget's around 300 dollars but I'm willing to go over for a good setup.
 
Thanks.

 

[kboe]

The A5s would be good, and because it comes with everything you need... Your done!

If you were willing to spend more, the ALO Padnda speakers, and say a small inexpensive amp from trends, or kingrex would go a long way towards better sound. Pair this with an iPod and your on your way to awesome sound.

 

[Kaidao]

The ALO Panda Speakers do look nice. How do they sound compared to the A5's? Also, I see them paired up with the MiniWatt N3 amp, but that puts it over my budget. Any recommendations on amps from trends or kingrex? Thanks.
 
Oh, and what about the Wharfedale Diamond 9.0? They're about in the same price range as the Pandas. How do they compare?
 
Thanks

 

[joe_cool]

Yes, the Wharfedale Diamond is a great speaker, but you're not going to get the best sound with a $100 toy-size power amp. I often use a Hafler DH-220 MOS-FET power amp with small speakers and the difference is clear.

 

[Kaidao]

Oh ok I see. Well I'll take a look at the Panda speakers and see if maybe I could test them out some where. If anyone else has any suggestions, feel free to share

 

[Kaidao]

Has anyone coupled the ALO Panda speakers with the KingRex T20 amp? Would this work, cause I can get the KingRex amp for cheap?

 

[AhhHoNG]

focal cms 40

but at ard 500 pounds a pair though. went tru alot of 2.0 speaker decision and testing and finally settled down on these