Need some help with a DAC

[ken3592]

Alright guys, I know there are a ton of threads on DACs on here, but I need some quick help because I'm getting confused shopping for a USB DAC.  I want a decent inexpensive DAC to improve the output over the onboard sound of my laptop.  I would use it for a pair of ATH-50s and a 2.1 bookshelf/sub setup.
 
I came across the Muse Mini USB DAC here (http://www.amazon.com/PCM2704-Optical-Coaxial-Decoder-Converter/dp/B0093KZTEA/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top), which I'm attracted to because of the low price and free 2-day shipping, however this DAC uses a Mini USB port, correct? So I would also need a USB to mini USB converter.  I've looked at the HiFiMeDIY Sabre DAC as well, but that's a jump up in price plus $8 ground shipping.
 
Any recommendations here?  I had a Fiio E7 DAC/Amp that recently quit working, and I'm looking for something with a chip that's equal to or better than the E7, but I want something $50 or less and I need it quick.  I know I sound like a desperate newbie but I don't want to buy the wrong item and get ripped $50.
 
Thanks in advance.

 

[money4me247]

Go Behringer UAC 202
 
even cheaper + eligible for amazon prime + ~300 positive reviews.
 
edit: I recently found out about it & a head-fier whose opinion I trust says they perform extremely well considering the price. I am actually kicking myself for buying something else. lol. google search for reviews. you'll find tons of positive reviews.

 

[ken3592]

Thanks for the new recommendation!  Any ideas on how this one compares with the Muse and Sabre in terms of conversion quality?

 

[money4me247]

  Thanks for the new recommendation!  Any ideas on how this one compares with the Muse and Sabre in terms of conversion quality?

sorry, i actually haven't heard any of those dacs. however, the hifimediy sabre u2 is pricer than both of em (tho you can always go for the older version, mini sabre, or android sabre). also, if you buy direct it's from china so shipping more pricey & it'll take longer to get to you. perhaps you have find a reseller based in your country tho.
 
the muse uses the DAC chip PCM2704 & the Behringer UAC 202 uses the higher model PCM2902 DAC. (tho there are many people who say the dac chip isn't the main determiner of sound quality). I could find a lot more reviews & objective results on the Behringer UAC 202 and that would be the one I would get if I was choosing, but you will need to look for direct comparison reviews if you want to know more about their differences.