[rfvijn]

Anything I'm overlooking?  I would prefer a quality all-in-one DAC/HA/Pre, but it's not necessary.  Nothing from Audio-GD I've found seems to match better.
 
I have a max budget of ~$750  (looking to spend between $500-$750 realistically) and I'm looking for a DAC/Amp/Preamp setup. My current setup is a pair of HD598s and Presonus Eris E5.  Using onboard right now, but will be using optical out.  I'd like to move up a headphone tier soon, and when space permits 8" monitors. But that's as far as I will go.  Just looking to do a single quality purchase to last a long time.
 
My setup is used for a 50/50 mix between gaming and eclectic music listening...I truly mean eclectic. I listen to Bach or Tchaikovsky while studying. Classic Rock is my daily vice. And every now and then I'll load up King Fantastic. So something truly neutral on the EQ is my best bet.
 
Thank you.

 

[RonaldDumsfeld]

$750 is a lot of money for a DAC/HA/Pre. You can afford a professional grade audio interface for that.
 
My top choice would be an SPL Crimson.
 
http://spl.info/en/products/interfaces/crimson/specifications.html
 
Totally transparent sound, balanced outs and volume controller  for your active montors and not 1 but 2 powerful headphone outs each with sperate volume control and channl selection.
 
Alternatives at around the same price include the industry standard RME Babyface or for when you want more chanels the MOTU Ultralite.
 
Less expensive but still excellent alternatives include something from the Focusrite Scarlet range (6i6 if poss), the Native Instruments Audio 6 or, best software package, MOTU Microbook.
 
It's worth looking at the pro and semi pro suppliers because their products are designed to withstand earthing and noise issues better than domestic gear.

 

[rfvijn]

Ronald, I greatly appreciate the suggestions, however those seem to be way overkill for what I'm looking for.
 
And while I like having the option of USB in the future, right now I will be feeding the DAC via optical input.
 
Perhaps I should splurge for the Oppo HA-1?  I'm just not sure how the amp is in that unit.  Realistically however, I'd prefer to stay in the $500-$750 range.