[exander]

I currently have a 1212M internal PCI card that connects directly to my stereo amp.  Unfortunately, it's dying. 
 
I only listen to music and I'm willing to spend up to $300.  From what I've read an external DAC would probably be best. 
 
Any suggestions?
 
Thank you!
 
EDIT:  Upped spending to $750!

 

[dustinsterk]

Schiit Modi - $99.00 (16/44 to 24/96, including 24/88.2)
 
http://schiit.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=0&products_id=14

 

[PurpleAngel]

Quote:

I currently have a 1212M internal PCI card that connects directly to my stereo amp.  Unfortunately, it's dying. 
I only listen to music and I'm willing to spend up to $300.  From what I've read an external DAC would probably be best. 

So, not for headphones connected to computer?
Just computer to stereo amplifier?
 
The Xonar D1 (PCI) sound card, $67, comes with a CS4298 DAC chip.
Hifimediy Sabre USB-DAC, $52-$74
HRT MusicStreamer USB-DAC, $150
ODAC USB-DAC, $150

 

[exander]

Yep. Just computer to stereo. Thanks for the the choices.
 

 

[exander]

I decided to up the amount I'm willing to spend to $750.  

 
Any other suggestions?

 

[kn19h7]

For that budget perhaps RME HDSPe AIO?
 
I'm eyeing that btw... >_<

 

[exander]

Quote:

For that budget perhaps RME HDSPe AIO?
 
I'm eyeing that btw... >_<

That's a sound card, no? I am thinking external.

 

[kn19h7]

Quote:

That's a sound card, no? I am thinking external.

 
Yup, that's a soundcard which can be used as a DAC and also as a very good quality digital source to provide digital connection to external DAC.
 
Basically my plan for myself is to buy the card and use as DAC first, then save money for a really good DAC...

 

[cel4145]

I decided to up the amount I'm willing to spend to $750.  

Any other suggestions?

Save your money and use it toward upgrading some other part of your audio setup. Those $150 DACs that PurpleAngel suggested are pretty close to transparent.