Zida
500+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Oct 26, 2008
- Posts
- 660
- Likes
- 20
I was at my local audio store today to look into some higher end headphones to buy (D5000 and HD800) but what I think I came away with learning was that I need a new DAC.
I currently don't hear enough of a difference between my Headroom Micro DAC and my Zen Vision:M (both coupled with my Meier Corda HeadFive, ZV:M through line out) to care which one I use. Today, though, I was astonished to hear a drastic change between a reamped signal from the HO of my ZV:M vs the full DAC+Amp of the Peachtree iDecco from a salesperson's ipod. Now, she only had extremely well mastered tracks, but I'm still confident that the DAC made a huge difference. I'm basically talking night and day.
So now I want to buy a great quality DAC. At the same time I need to upgrade my headphones (I use DT880 primarily), so I really don't want a DAC that will break the bank. What I'm looking for is the DAC that will earn me the highest resolution and best imaging and soundstage that I can for the least money. I'm reluctant to offer a budget because my budget really depends on how much I /need/ to spend to get something really... quality.
So please, have at it. Tell me about any DAC you can think of that provides exceptional value for the cost. I'm looking for audiophile, or as close to it as I can, for the least money.
Thanks, everyone. Really, I need your help.
I currently don't hear enough of a difference between my Headroom Micro DAC and my Zen Vision:M (both coupled with my Meier Corda HeadFive, ZV:M through line out) to care which one I use. Today, though, I was astonished to hear a drastic change between a reamped signal from the HO of my ZV:M vs the full DAC+Amp of the Peachtree iDecco from a salesperson's ipod. Now, she only had extremely well mastered tracks, but I'm still confident that the DAC made a huge difference. I'm basically talking night and day.
So now I want to buy a great quality DAC. At the same time I need to upgrade my headphones (I use DT880 primarily), so I really don't want a DAC that will break the bank. What I'm looking for is the DAC that will earn me the highest resolution and best imaging and soundstage that I can for the least money. I'm reluctant to offer a budget because my budget really depends on how much I /need/ to spend to get something really... quality.
So please, have at it. Tell me about any DAC you can think of that provides exceptional value for the cost. I'm looking for audiophile, or as close to it as I can, for the least money.
Thanks, everyone. Really, I need your help.