[ManniDuetz]

Currently I have my AT 990z connected to an old Pioneer A-401 Amp, which is connected to my Pc (Realtek ALC887 Codec). I really enjoy the sound quality but for some reason my left driver turns off from time to time (only happens when connected to the Amp). 
 
I'm now looking to spend about 90€ to improve the SQ. My first choice would have been the Fiio E10K but then I started reading more and more about DAC's and AMP's and ended up being more confused then resolved. 
 

1. Considering my circumstances, should I get a 2in1 (DAC+AMP) device or just an AMP?
2. How difficult is it to repair age related damages to AMP's and would that be worth it or a viable option for me? --> For example: Use some of the money to repair my AMP and spend the rest for a new DAC.
3. Depending on the route you'd take, which device would be your recommendation?

 
Have a wonderful day

 

[harry501501]

Can you get the Cambridge Audio DACMAGIC XS 2 at a decent price? This little thing is compact and has geat sound. It's airy, imporves the soundstage... slightly bright so helps with detail retrieval, great separation.
 
https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/products/hifi-and-home-cinema/dacmagic-xs
 
Fiio E10k is good and powerful, but i find the sound to be too smooth and soundstage isn't that wide. Quite warm and bassy IMO.
 
Good option could be the Dragonfly Black DAC. Well reviewed and powerful
 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audioquest-Dragonfly-Digital-Analogue-Converter/dp/B00882U782
 
Where do you buy your gear as I'm not sure about how much things cost in euros?

 

[harry501501]

If you are just listening from your laptop then just get a DAC. The two imentioned Dragonfly and DACMAGIC have the one 3.5ml connection and can be used for both speakers or headphones. They also have options that can be changed on the PC.
 
S.M.S.L provide quality cheap DACs.
 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/SD793-II-PCM1793-DIR9001-Digital-amplifier-black/dp/B00A2QLPJM

 

[ManniDuetz]

First of all thank you for responding.
 
I'm not using a laptop but a desktop pc so I'd also rather like to have something nice looking on my desk instead of just being tucked away in an usb port. 
I'd most likely be ordering from Amazon.de which doesn't have the SMSL SD793-II in stock. 
 
If I understand correctly you'd advice me to get a DAC instead of an AMP or 2 in 1 Device? Sorry my understanding about the tech is not quite yet complete. 

 

[buke9]

First of all thank you for responding.

I'm not using a laptop but a desktop pc so I'd also rather like to have something nice looking on my desk instead of just being tucked away in an usb port. 
I'd most likely be ordering from Amazon.de which doesn't have the SMSL SD793-II in stock. 

If I understand correctly you'd advice me to get a DAC instead of an AMP or 2 in 1 Device? Sorry my understanding about the tech is not quite yet complete. 

A lot of people say DAC but really mean DAC / AMP . For what your wanting to spend I would think a little hybrid tube amp would be nice . Something like a Bravo Ocean . The tubes are fairly inexpensive and not to hard to find NOS tubes .