[subtle.desensitizer]

I have a desktop with terrible onboard sound and a laptop with terrible onboard sound. I'd like a USB DAC upgrade to fix this issue.
 
In terms of other relevant gear, I have Ultrasone Pro 900's and a Cowon Q5W. I listen to FLAC, mainly 16 bit due to the Cowon's Limitation. I plan to purchase a amp in the near future for the Pro 900's with my primary music interest being electronic music, if that helps.
 
tldr; - Do I buy the UD100  or the Sabre ? I am open to other suggestions

 

[ender323]

Quote:

I have a desktop with terrible onboard sound and a laptop with terrible onboard sound. I'd like a USB DAC upgrade to fix this issue.
 
In terms of other relevant gear, I have Ultrasone Pro 900's and a Cowon Q5W. I listen to FLAC, mainly 16 bit due to the Cowon's Limitation. I plan to purchase a amp in the near future for the Pro 900's with my primary music interest being electronic music, if that helps.
 
tldr; - Do I buy the UD100  or the Sabre ? I am open to other suggestions

If you don't have an amp yet, you will either need a DAC with an integrated amp, or get an amp now. You can't use a standalone DAC straight to headphones. I'm a big fan of the Schiit Modi, right at $100. RCA out, but if your amp has 3.5mm in, a <$5 Monoprice cable will connect them.