[spartan777]

what good is an x-fi then, if it has a poor dac? seems like you should only need the x-fi to handle digital and analog if its $170.

 

[003]

Because it still is the absolute best gaming card you can get.

 

[Akarui2]

last question! one thing I really lack with the computer that I get tons of on the stereo is bass... In games like Half Life 2, Fear, Oblivion, and Prey I really want the bass to come through on my headphones like it does when i listen to music and watch movies with my stereo.

Will having a better soundcard help with that? Specificically will the xtrememusic card help that?

 

[003]

This is with the HD580? If you want tons of boomy bass you've got the wrong headphone. The HD580 is bass heavy, but for the extreme bass head you need a beyerdynamic dt770/80. It is also better for games than the 580.

 

[Akarui2]

well I don't want tons... I get a lot just plugging these into my stereo and it seems to be the perfect amount for me... at certain times while watching war of the worlds with my 580's through my stereo my head starts to shake but it's not super crazy or anything.

I'd just like to get that amount with the computer.

 

[003]

Oh I see what you mean. You said you were using a cmoy, right? A PA2V2 ($60) is ungodly bassy with the 580/600/650.

 

[Akarui2]

I have a pimeta ... with OPA627 opamps... I'm getting new op-amps though becuase i"ve heard those are very smooth...

Would it behoove me to purchase the soundcard if what I'm after is more bass? and would changing the opamps in your opinion really help me out?

 

[003]

Changing sound cards might make a difference but not nearly as much as getting an external DAC. If changing opamps is like tube rolling, then yes it can make a significant difference, if you get the right ones.

 

[Akarui2]

right on ... last question I promise! lol

where can I find an external dac that's premade for not a whole lot?

 

[003]

What is your definition of not a whole lot? What is the most you could spend on a DAC? Don't neglect the DAC, it is one of the most important parts of an audio system.

 

[Akarui2]

50? after tax or shipping or whatever... don't have a ton of money

 

[003]

Thats not much, but I would look into one of these:
http://www6.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=188980

A good entry level real DAC would be a Zhaolu 2.0 or DAC-AH.

Oh and for an amp I really suggest you get a headfive before they are all gone. You will not regret it.

 

[McRat]

Quote:

Originally Posted by 003 Oh and for an amp I really suggest you get a headfive before they are all gone. You will not regret it.

Seconded. The Headfive is a surprisingly good match for both the HD580 and HF-1 (out of my Chaintech AV-710).

I don't think I've ever enjoyed these phones this much.