[Reggie Miguel]

Hey Everyone, as the title states. I've settled on the Sennheiser HD 598 and the Audio Engine A2, they are both currently on my MSI z170A Krait Gaming 3x motherboard with Audio Boost 3. I mainly game (fps/rpgs/mmo) and listen to music. Base would be great but a detailed mid-high range is more important to me. 
 
My first question would be: Would there be a noticeable difference with sound quality if I were to add an external DAC/AMP to my rig? Or is the Audio Boost 3 good enough?
 
If you recommend getting an external DAC/AMP, which ones would you recommend? I'm trying to keep my budget under 200 but I'm willing to spend an extra 100-200 if the sound quality is worth it.
 
Currently I'm looking into the Audio Engine A1, Fiio E10k, Mayflower Objective 2, or the Modi and Magna 2. Would it be a waste to get of money to go into the 200+ dollar range with my set up? 
 
I'm a noob audiophile, any advice would help! thanks! 

 

[PurpleAngel]

  Hey Everyone, as the title states. I've settled on the Sennheiser HD 598 and the Audio Engine A2, they are both currently on my MSI z170A Krait Gaming 3x motherboard with Audio Boost 3. I mainly game (fps/rpgs/mmo) and listen to music. Base would be great but a detailed mid-high range is more important to me. 
My first question would be: Would there be a noticeable difference with sound quality if I were to add an external DAC/AMP to my rig? Or is the Audio Boost 3 good enough?
If you recommend getting an external DAC/AMP, which ones would you recommend? I'm trying to keep my budget under 200 but I'm willing to spend an extra 100-200 if the sound quality is worth it.
Currently I'm looking into the Audio Engine A1, Fiio E10k, Mayflower Objective 2, or the Modi and Magna 2. Would it be a waste to get of money to go into the 200+ dollar range with my set up? 
I'm a noob audiophile, any advice would help! thanks! 

 
As your into gaming, you might consider getting a Creative Labs Sound Blaster Z sound card, find a used one ($55-$60?) on eBay.
For the cash leftover in your audio budget, you could get better studio monitors (Monoprice 5" studio monitors?)

 

[Reggie Miguel]

mmm i see, thanks for the input. So you think an external Dac/amp would be an over kill? 

 

[PurpleAngel]

  mmm i see, thanks for the input. So you think an external Dac/amp would be an over kill? 

 
Not against you getting an external DAC/amp.
Just think it would be wiser to spend not more then $100, for a DAC/amp (or sound card)
And spend the rest of your audio budget for better studio monitors.
 
External DAC/amp for under $100.
FiiO E10K or Q1

 

[Reggie Miguel]

That makes sense. Thank you!