[girafa]

I am looking for my first DAC.

I will be playing out of my laptop maybe iriver ihp 120 if it will allow.
Headphones etys er4p, grado 225s, some future akgs or denons.
Would like for it to be portable AKA fit in my backpack.
Not something puny like the BantamDac.Not ultra portable, transportable.
This is my first DAC will plan on in upgrading later

DAC only
USB input , S/PDIF toslink input(iriver),1/8 output. or anything that can work with my laptop(I dont want to restrict myself)
$1-$350USD more likely 150-300usd

Im leaning towards the gamma 1(bang for my buck?)(150?) but i think i could cough up a little more dough.(this dac still on the small side)


suggestions please DIY or mainstream

 

[itsborken]

Quote:

Originally Posted by girafa /img/forum/go_quote.gif I am looking for my first DAC. I will be playing out of my laptop maybe iriver ihp 120 if it will allow. Headphones etys er4p, grado 225s, some future akgs or denons. Would like for it to be portable AKA fit in my backpack. Not something puny like the BantamDac.Not ultra portable, transportable. This is my first DAC will plan on in upgrading later DAC only USB input , S/PDIF toslink input(iriver),1/8 output. or anything that can work with my laptop(I dont want to restrict myself) $1-$350USD more likely 150-300usd Im leaning towards the gamma 1(bang for my buck?)(150?) but i think i could cough up a little more dough.(this dac still on the small side) suggestions please DIY or mainstream

Gamma1 doesn't have a battery so toslink/coax requires a 5v adapter (or USB power). Perhaps MisterX could rig a battery + charging circuit in a larger case. What's your plan on an amp to pair with the gamma1?

Probably the D10 is your best low cost bet for portability with your iriver w/o needing an outlet or laptop handy (and it has an amp).

The Gamma1 does sound pretty sweet though. Hats off to AMB and MisterX

 

[girafa]

i dont mind playing off wallwart with the iriver . but if battery is possible thats a plus.
Ill be pairing it with minibox E and decware zenhead.

And I really dont want to get a D10, ill be another fish in the pond.

 

[itsborken]

Understood, just that it's probably your best bet for total portability.

 

[Bones13]

D10 +1 for what you are looking for iBasso

Headroom micro DAC might be out of your budget, but a nice step to reach.

 

[jinp6301]

Quote:

Originally Posted by girafa /img/forum/go_quote.gif And I really dont want to get a D10, ill be another fish in the pond.

what does that mean?