[AnkusSteak]

I've been shopping around for a DAC/headphone amp setup. My source is my laptop (foobar w/ WASAPI) and I'm going to be driving my Grado sr325is. My goal is to compromise as little as possible with DAC quality with a $500 budget, but as I will have no cash left over for a headphone amp I need a decent-ish one built in to at least keep me going for the time being. I've narrowed my search to these 4.. which of these would you pick?
 
1) Audio-GD FUN
2) Music Hall DAC25.2 
3) Maverick Audio Tube Magic
4) PS Audio GCHA headphone amp (I know this isn't a DAC, but its on sale for 50% off and has USB input)
 
 
I appreciate your input!

 

[cheaphifi]

An Audio-GD Fun with Earth OPA (or Moon if you want a "tubey" flavored sound) would greatly fit your needs.

 

[matthewh133]

That seems to be a popular choice lately on these forums. Have you considered the NuForce Icon HDP? Got great reviews and comes in at $449 + free shipping to the continental U.S.

 

[AnkusSteak]

I had considered it and had thought that it got mixed reviews, but I checked back on it again and it seems pretty solid - I think I may have mixed it up with another NuForce model.

 

[Leanier]

You should also consider the Yulong D100 as it is superb DAC and great headphone amp.

 

[justin520520]

Yes, agree to Leanier, D100 will be your best choice.
It's about 500USD including shipping to USA.
Like a steal.