[joesmoe0322]

I intend to get a USB DAC, and output to my ath m50's. Is it true that the output of a dedicated DAC such as the Schiit modi is line level, so I won't get suffiecent sound through my ath m50's without a headphone amp connected to the output of the dac. Even though without a DAC the ath m50's have low enough impedance that a headphone amp isn't necessary. I was told this by a Schiit customer service rep.
 
Part of email conversation with schiit rep:

I am considering the original modi dac, am I right to assume I don't need an amplifier for low impedance headphones such as ath m50’s.   You will need an amplifier with the Modi for any headphone or speaker, it is only capable of driving a line level input, not headphones.   Thanks I appreciate any input.

 

[PurpleAngel]

  I intend to get a USB DAC, and output to my ath m50's. Is it true that the output of a dedicated DAC such as the Schiit Modi is line level, so I won't get sufficient sound through my ath m50's without a headphone amp connected to the output of the DAC. Even though without a DAC the ath m50's have low enough impedance that a headphone amp isn't necessary. I was told this by a Schiit customer service rep.

 
I would say the FiiO E10K ($76) or Schiit Fulla ($79) would be better choices, they are both USB DACs with amplified headphone output jacks.
The E10K might be a little more warming and forgiving and the Fulla a little more detailed.

 

[net625]

I use a fiio e7 with mine and it's great. The e7 also works with my LG g3 over USB.

 

[joesmoe0322]

Thanks for the suggestion

 

[joesmoe0322]

What do you guys think of the Topping VX1 I like the option for speaker output and I don't really need a portable DAC.

 

[net625]

I woulden't get that for just headphones, especially when you have options like the fulla and fiio e7. But I don't have any experience with that product so maybe it's a great headphone amp but that doesn't seem to be it's purpose.