[DrGroove]

I'm moving my PC to an m-ITX build and won't have room for a soundcard anymore, so I need to make the switch to discreet components. Currently deciding between the Schiit or O2 amp for headphones, and will be using an old Sony stereo amp for my speakers. I just need a few suggestions for my DAC:
1. Driver-less USB or optical
2. Two RCA outputs
3. Either simultaneous output or a switch to quickly change output
 
The cheaper the better, I just don't want to frequently change RCA cables going from headphones to speakers.

 

[Smeckles]

Is keeping the original PC an option?  Just to use it as a dedicated music server? That would seem to be pretty cost effective, rather than getting a new DAC.
 

 

[DrGroove]

Quote:

Is keeping the original PC an option?  Just to use it as a dedicated music server? That would seem to be pretty cost effective, rather than getting a new DAC.
 

Nah, I'm trying to downsize for space reasons. I'll just sell my soundcard and put the $ toward the DAC. Does what I want even exist? If not, would a splitter reduce sound quality significantly?

 

[PurpleAngel]

Any chance you would run digital out of your computer to an external DAC, then connect the DAC to the old Sony receiver and plug your headphones into the Sony?

 

[DrGroove]

Quote:

Any chance you would run digital out of your computer to an external DAC, then connect the DAC to the old Sony receiver and plug your headphones into the Sony?

I frequently switch between IEMs and speakers, so I want an interface that allows easy switching. If I only use the receiver, I would have to readjust the volume all the time. Anyways, I did a little research and figure I'll just use splitters to the receiver and headphone amp. That should also be the cheapest solution.

 

[PurpleAngel]

Quote:

I frequently switch between IEMs and speakers, so I want an interface that allows easy switching. If I only use the receiver, I would have to readjust the volume all the time. Anyways, I did a little research and figure I'll just use splitters to the receiver and headphone amp. That should also be the cheapest solution.

The Fiio E10 USB-DAC-Headphone amplifier, comes with a separate line-out function, you can connect the line-out to the Sony, using a 3.5mm to RCA cable.
The built in headphone amplifier has a really low impedance
The E10 is only $44.99 at Adorama.