[JiggaD369]

Is there alot of audible difference between the two if I'm not using balanced connections? I will be using a PC to tranfer to a M3 to K701. Looking for the best soundcard or DAC for under $200.

 

[Asmo]

Yes there is a difference, I prefer the 1212m easily to the 0404.

You can do some searching here there have been many such posts in the past, most people go for the 0404 simply because at $100 its hard to beat. But the 1212m is definetly the better card.

 

[JahJahBinks]

1212m is comparable to some of the external DACs

 

[JiggaD369]

What about sound signature wise? How would you rate them both...neutral, warm, cold, etc?

 

[iSleipnir]

When I did research just before buying mine, the impression that I got was that the 0404 was more "fun" which to me translates to warmer sound, maybe more bass I guess. The 1212 was charaterized as more analytical and fast. Here the thing: I read a few reviews where the person had enjoyed the 0404 because of its minor coloration and its fun-factor initially but over time got tired of it and switched to the 1212 and ended up liking it more.

I would go with the 1212 because I think its more neutral and you can color the signal path if you want with different headphones and amps, but my philosophy is to have a strong neutral source and tweak that. Goodluck.