[Breach]

Hi,
 
I have the Senn HD650 and have recently purchased an Earmax Pro amp - quite like the combo so far. What should be my next upgrade, hi-fi-wise? My source is my PC - creative x-fi champion card which will by upgraded to the Titanium HD once it comes out. As far as I understand I have the following options ahead of me:
 
a) A standalone DAC - has to be something perceivably better than the Creative one 
b) Replacement cable for the Senns
c) Quality interconnects - I'm using cheap ones right now
 
Money also matters, and I'm not the kind of person who'd spend 200 pounds on a 1.2m piece of wire too. Still, thoughts?
 
Thanks.

 

[Breach]

Anyone..?

 

[gbacic]

I'd say a DAC, and there is no need to upgrade cables (there is no real 'upgrading', just money wasting).
 
Instead of buying another soundcard why not use that on a DAC? Audio-GD DAC's are great for the money and are very well built, and you'll probably get a lot of Audio-GD recommendations.

 

[Ypoknons]

I think you should first review the evidence for cable improvements and decide on your own whether they make any difference. 

 

[zozo]

If you haven't already, I'd recommend a little tuberolling before all else. TONS of variety out there for those tubes in the EMP to suit the kinds of music you listen to. Some cheap, some not too cheap. Then, when you've determined what tubes sound best (and still aren't broke), you can upgrade your source/cables.

 

[the_equalizer]

I'd get a DAC and interconnects first. A good DAC makes an astounding difference in sound quality. Then, afterwards, put the icing on the cake with a replacement cable.
 
Cheers!