AudioObsession
100+ Head-Fier
Agreed. Any balanced output is easily converted to another balanced output and 2.5 is mostly found only on portable amps. Balanced XLR is more common on desktop amps.
@AudioObsession - as far as what you're looking for at <$150? Not sure you really have many options - everything around that price that does balanced is portable (though you can use portable amp as a desktop... ) but this SMSL might be the closest to what you want. And you might still need a DAC. https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-Headphone-Amplifier-Balanced-Performance/dp/B07JQ1QDR9/ref=asc_df_B07JQ1QDR9/ - I've never heard anything from SMSL so can't vouch for quality, but reviews are out there I'm sure.
That is the EXACT amp I was looking at!
And I also looked into the Loxjie P20
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32922685321.html
Figuring I would use the xlr 4 >> 2.5mm adaptor that @davehutch mentioned.
But then I'll need a set of 2 XLR females to 2.5mm for my SabajDa3 amp/dac
Both adapters add about $45 to the overall price..
Although I might just make the two-xlr to one-2.5mm cord myself...
****Also: Does adding an amp to the Da3 (also an amp/dac) cause any extra noise?
I mean, at that point I would be double-amping right?
I read that if you turn the volume down to "line level" that you wont end up double-amping..
Anyone have any experience with this?
Or do I just need an entire new AMP/DAC system?
Sorry, I'm very new to the whole amping thing..