[evilsword]

Hi guys,
 
I just switch from a Windows platform to Mac. My windows setup is as follows:
 
PC --> Xonar Essence STX --> Little Dot MKIII tube amp --> DT880 headphone  250ohm.
 
I need to replacement the Xonar with a DAC for my Mac platform. Any recommendations? I want the DAC quality to be equivalent of the Xonar and my budget is around $300.
 
Thanks

 

[cel4145]

I replaced my STX with an ODAC. I thought the ODAC to be just a little better, but that could be listener bias. Certainly is equivalent. Given that the Schiit Modi has been compared favorably with the ODAC (I have not heard it), I would suspect it to be as good as the STX as well.

Both of these are well under your budget

 

[SuzyFuller]

I replaced my STX with an ODAC. I thought the ODAC to be just a little better, but that could be listener bias. Certainly is equivalent. Given that the Schiit Modi has been compared favorably with the ODAC (I have not heard it), I would suspect it to be as good as the STX as well.

Both of these are well under your budget

And where would one buy the ODAC from i have done a search for that ODAC chip but come up empty handed ..
 
Would love to buy one and try ..

 

[cel4145]

Search for ODAC DAC

 

[SuzyFuller]

Search for ODAC DAC

Done that and still getting no hits for just the ODAC chips ,Even asked mayflower and was told you cant use them on STX so i dunno ..

 

[cel4145]

Right. You have to buy a new separate DAC.

If you want to find out what you can switch out on the STX, skim this thread and talk to them: http://www.head-fi.org/t/421890/the-xonar-essence-stx-q-a-tweaking-impressions-thread

 

[Vanquished]

I changed my STX with Aune T1, I think it's a good upgrade, always found STX harsh sounding and some pops&glitches during playback.