[MikeP1985]

Hey all,

Im looking for a standalone USB or IPod DAC in the $100-$300 range that will improve the sound quality of my IPod or laptop. I want my Bottlehead Crack amp to take care of the amplifying and the DAC to just improve the musical quality. I'm still not convinced that a DAC will make a noticeable difference for me coming from my laptop or IPod, but I'm willing to take a chance. My HD600s are somewhat neutral and uncolored, so I dont want an analytical DAC. I want one that will keep the warm sound of my HD600s but maybe tighten the bass and be on the more fun/musical side if thats possible. Ive gotten recommendations for the DACport LX, HRT Music Streamer, and the Schiit Modi. Any more info on these or other recommendations would be appreciated. If it helps, I mostly listen to rock like Avenged Sevenfold/In Flames/Alter Bridge (hard rock), guitar players like Joe Satriani/John Petrucci/Joe Bonamassa, and a little bit of electronica like Pendulum/Kill the Noise. Thanks.

 

[MikeP1985]

Momma said bump this up

 

[SoupRKnowva]

I was actually looking at building a system almost the same as yours, with a Crack and an HD600, i was looking at either a Bifrost or a Concero..though i guess they arent in the same price range.

 

[MikeP1985]

Yea, the Concero is a little high for my budget, but I definitely would consider the Bifrost if I thought it would be worth it over the Schiit Modi. I dont really need all of the features of the Bifrost though, and I would have to upgrade to the USB.

 

[mbkennel]

You might find that even combination DAC/AMP might be awfully good.
 
Audinst HUD-MX1/2.  I have the MX1, the MX2 was just released. 
 
http://highresolutiontechnologies.com/microstreamer
 
Getting rave reviews. http://positive-feedback.com/Issue65/microstreamer.htm