[exander]

I have a Chaintech currently. But I'm getting into real HiFi stuff now and I'm wondering if there is a better card or something I should take a look at. I'm sending the signal to a Jolida 1501RC Hybrid tube amp and Onix Rocket 750 speakers. The amp has analog only.

I'm listing to MP3's right now but I'm going to start ripping to lossless.

What's the best solution for me? I'm not sure how much I'd spend. Let's say, less than $300.

Thanks!!

 

[roadtonowhere08]

I implore you to look into the E-MU 1212M. It is a magnificent card with great detail and dynamics. There is also the 0404 from E-MU, and it is more "fun". I like fun, but I hear the 0404 is not as detailed as the 1212M. Either card will be great buys, and will make you very happy.

 

[lan]

A 1212m modded is up your alley. With speakers systems, it sounds great. When you read around here the bass maynot be as powerful as 0404, that's usually in headphone system.

 

[roadtonowhere08]

Quote:

Originally Posted by lan A 1212m modded is up your alley. With speakers systems, it sounds great. When you read around here the bass maynot be as powerful as 0404, that's usually in headphone system.

LOL, bass is plenty with my SVS PB12-ISD

 

[exander]

Thank you all very much!!

I will look into them.
I'm a big bass fiend so I'll have to keep that in mind. The 0404 is probably best for me.

One more question: Is a sound card the best way to go or should I also consider an external device? I've seen them around but don't know anything about them.

What is "fun"?

 

[1UP]

Foot-tapping, head-bopping, I guess it refers to tempo and the presentation of musical energy (assuming the song has any to begin with, i.e. not Dido

)

 

[exander]

I'm leaning toward the 0404 presently. I don't like a lot of brightness or irritating highs in my music. So, it sounds like the 0404 might be best for me, no?

 

[D-EJ915]

Just to point it out, the 1212M is $150 at compusa right now.

 

[exander]

Someone on another forum said I wouldn't notice any different between the AV-710 and the 0404. What the heck!~!?!?!

Does the 0404 have 2 analog RCA outs? or do I have to use a Y- with a mini plug?

 

[exander]

Quote:

Originally Posted by D-EJ915 Just to point it out, the 1212M is $150 at compusa right now.

Dangit!!! Now, you're making this decision more difficult!!

 

[georgios]

Make a try on audiophile 2496, I am using it and it's sweet

 

[1UP]

I'm also very sensitive to edgy highs, and don't detect any of these in my 0404 (granted though, my DT990s are a little dark). I wouldn't worry about it with either card, to be honest. It's more likely to be a problem due to the production of the CDs/MP3s you use.

Plus, you can always use resampling to tame any sharpness you don't like. Personally, I don't use it myself, as certain instruments do sound sharp in real-life, and at the end of the day, I want to hear all frequencies sound natural, including the top-end.