TLDR: Do I need a separate amp to get best out of Abyss 1266?
SUBJECT: Do I love the DAC or the amp part of the TT2?
Having asked on the Abyss 1266 thread, I thought I'd try my luck here regarding separate amp for a TT2/Mscaler combo.
I have 1266 coming in, and want to get the best out of them. Suggestions vary on whether the SE jack is sufficient to drive the 1266. Many on the 1266 thread suggest using the XLR balanced outs on the back.
Can anyone chime in on any need for separate amp (I'm thinking Niimbus US5 Pro) and then either a less expensive DAC that can still deliver the goods.
I love the TT2/HMS combo, but I'm not till death us do part with it. Selling them could easily fund a fantastic separate amp plus very good DAC instead which would give me the full range of connections I need, as the 1266 and existing headphones I have are mix of 6.3mm and 4 pin XLR. One of the cables is a Superconductor, and the deal I got on it was fantastic jump-on-it-immediately level. So I want to have a range of connections to play with that TT2 doesn't offer.
Thing is, I can't understand if what I love about the TT2/HMS is in the DAC or the amp??
Also, HMS is very nice, but I could live without it. Pretty sure I'd fail a blind test, but I DO notice it after a week if I take it out.
Sorry, this is rambling. I need HELP