I just upgraded to the 400i from the Audio Technica M50s, and wow... everything is so much clearer! Even when I plug them in to my AVR and play blu-rays... so much clarity! I've been obsessed with these and have been doing a massive amount of research and I am stuck what to do next. So, that's where I need some help. I'm new, but trying and willing to learn.
For listening to music I've been plugging these straight into my laptop. The sound good, but in order for them to really shine I have to turn up the volume to 90% of what my MacBook Pro is capable of producing. However, this ends up hurting my ears quite a bit during and after. I'm not anywhere near 95db, but still, it's painful. So here is my question:
• If I purchase an external DAC and amplifier, will this give the headphones more punch/life that I'm looking for? Hifiman, and others, mention they are more than capable to work without an amp. That's why I haven't purchased one yet, and the reason I'm still hesitating.
• If so, how is this possible? I'm not tuning up my volume the whole way up, so what "extra" is the external amplifier doing?
• Would the JDS Element, Apogee Groove, or Schiit Magni/Modi 2 stack be the best choice? Based on my research, it seems like these are good choices for the characteristics of planar hds.
• Is the Schiit semi-portable? I work in my living room, at home studio, and kitchen at times. I wouldn't mind moving it, I just can't tell if it's a huge issue to move. If so, I guess the other two options might be better.
I know it's a massive amount of questions, I just don't know what to do yet. I've seen members state that all DACs and amps are the same and any differences are placebo. So, if I am going to spend chunk of change, I want to make sure the improvements are very obvious. Thanks.