[UprightMan]

Hi all... i have an M-Audio Fast Track Pro soundcard and wondering how it compares to the Fiio E7 as a DAC?  I *think* the Ultra is would be better... but wondering if anyone knows...  the Ultra does so much more am wondering if a dedicated DAC would be better for listening (only) situations.
 
While we are at it how would it compare to the Fiio F9 as well?  I'm primarly running it for my Senn HD 580's.
 
 
Link for Ultra - http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/FastTrackUltra.html
 
Thanks

 

[Oddworld]

I, too, am interested in this

 

[dleblanc343]

Having an e7 and possibly getting a fast track ultra for studio use, I will try and let you guys know. You probably don't need this answer any longer, but I will try and answer anyways.

 

[thrashcomics]

i would like to know as well. i already have a fast track and am looking at getting a pair of akg q701s. will the fast track be enough to power them?

 

[skip129]

NwAvGuy is apparently going to publish a review of some pro USB audio interfaces, which should be very interesting.
 
FWIW, I have the Fast Track Ultra, and I have measured the output impedance of the headphone output at about 2.5 ohms, which is pretty good. (if my measurement is accurate - I'm sure it won't be as accurate as NwAvGuy's!).  However, it only puts out about 1V RMS (this is the spec, and I've verified it with a measurement), which isn't nearly enough for my AKG K601s. It would be about 105dB SPL for the Q701, which may be enough for some folks. (it would NOT be enough for me)  
 
I think it would be best to stick to low impedance headphones when directly connected to the FTU. Otherwise, use an amp connected to the line outs.
 
I don't have opinion to offer on the subtle details of the sound of the headphone output, or for that matter, the amped sound of the line outs.
 
Greg.

 

[bowei006]

You could compare it to the obsolte E7. or you can compare it to the E10 and then the E17. (when the E17 comes out officially and is availble on a majority of sites)