[tdogzthmn]

I have been doing some critical listening lately and I feel that my setup should be capable of more than what I am hearing. Right now my setup is: MacBook > Hotaudio DAC DESTROYER > Millett MiniMax > HD600. Sometimes I get great detailed sound that has good presence, and other days it sounds so-so. I have tried simply using the headphone out on my MacBook and I get results that sound almost as good as when I use the DAC and amp. I also tried using just the DAC which has a headphone jack and the result not as good as the headphone jack on my computer. I know the MiniMax has a good reputation and should be able to properly drive my HD600. My guess is that my DAC is whats holding me back. I feel that my amp and headphone is capable of producing alot more detail than I'm hearing. I will note that I got noticeably better sound when I used an upgraded headphone cable. Let me know if you have suggestions for something I should try, or a DAC that will give me the detail I crave from my music.

 

[alwayshungry]

I think you are correct. I have previously used a hotaudio dac as my source but when I upgraded to my PS Audio DL III it was a night and day difference. Even compared to the VALAB NOS DAC (which is quite popular if you visit the DAC forum), there is a significant difference. Also, I am referring to using my Millet Hybrid Minimax as an amp and my HD650s as headphones. The hotaudio DAC is a great product on it's own but I think a higher end source will give you what you are looking for.