Need a quality DAP that can also be used an external DAC/AMP

[oaklandrichie]

Tired of using my iPhone for mobile music. The storage is too limited and I want a higher quality DAC/AMP anyway. I also have an Audioengine d3 that I use for my office, but it would be great if my new DAP could serve this purpose as well. 
I mainly listen to garage/indie rock and classic jazz. The headphones are hd600's, sr225i's and dt770-250's. 
My budget is around $300, and I don't mind buying used.
Thanks in advance. 

 

[DrSheep]

I suggest you go a little higher and look into the FiiO X5 2nd gen, iBasso DX80, or Astel&Kern Jr.

 

[oaklandrichie]

  I suggest you go a little higher and look into the FiiO X5 2nd gen, iBasso DX80, or Astel&Kern Jr.

Actually, I'm looking pretty closely at the x5 right now. Is there a significant difference between the 1st and 2nd gen? I looked at the specs and they look pretty similar. Same DAC, but different amps. 

 

[DrSheep]

  Actually, I'm looking pretty closely at the x5 right now. Is there a significant difference between the 1st and 2nd gen? I looked at the specs and they look pretty similar. Same DAC, but different amps. 

SQ wise I think they simplified the circuit design which is always welcome, then some minor weight and battery improvements.

 

[oaklandrichie]

$350 on Amaon, not bad. Totally worth it to have a reliable DAP that will drive good headphones.

 

[DrSheep]

$350 on Amaon, not bad. Totally worth it to have a reliable DAP that will drive good headphones.

Yeah, and you might get a better deal if search around.

 

[oaklandrichie]

Just ordered the original x5. I think it will fill my needs. Most reviews say there's not much of a difference in sq, but they improved the UI, load time, etc. If it's really a bad user experience, I'll upgrade later. Thanks for the help.