[kaikai1805]

hi, im planning on getting a DAC/AMP to solve the problem of having "noise" of my laptop. Any suggestions?

 

[proton007]

Please search the forums first to come up with a few options based on your budget etc.  You'll also find reviews.

 

[kaikai1805]

 
Quote:

Please search the forums first to come up with a few options based on your budget etc.  You'll also find reviews.

 
 was considering Pico, ODAC, ibasso D7. any comments?

 

[proton007]

Well, the ODAC is the cheapest, but its only a DAC, and will start selling after May.
The rest are DAC/AMP Combos.
Personally I like standalone DAC because I can connect any amp I want. Maybe the other two also have line out options.

 

[Johnnyhi]

Have you seen the Nuforce Icon 2.? i've only owned the Icon 1 but it wasn't good for my setup and i heard that the icon 2 is better... but what is your budget.?

 

[kaikai1805]

budget about 400usd?

 

[ucrags84]

I'm also interested in pairing an AMP/DAC with my ES5's both for Laptop use and portable. 

Looking at Ibasso D4, i Basso T3. Wondering what would be a good pairing, ES5's are 20 ohms, would need impedance matching under 2 ohms. 

 

[kwlinca]

I found the D7 to be noisy with my customs (UERM).  The HRT Headstreamer is inexpensive, but good for the money.  It's also very quiet; downside is the limited volume range for sensitive customs.
 

 

[ucrags84]

Quote:

I found the D7 to be noisy with my customs (UERM).  The HRT Headstreamer is inexpensive, but good for the money.  It's also very quiet; downside is the limited volume range for sensitive customs.
 

I've heard good things about the HRT too, but it doesn't have volume control on the go right? 

 

[misterblack]

I have a pair of Westone ES5's paired with a Pico DAC/Amp combo. I'm a discerning listener—not an audiophile blackbelt by any means—but for me the hassle of carrying around the amplifier when I'm doing anything besides sitting at my desk isn't worth it, so I typically have them plugged in straight to the iPhone (at the gym, cleaning the house, taking a walk, etc). Doesn't sound as good, but it's better than having to wear a fanny pack.