KevC
100+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Aug 9, 2003
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Hey Guys,
I have a pair of Westone UM1 and use my IBM Thinkpad X31 for school. I've started using it for music more often, as I spend most my time in the library.
I've noticed the Intel 82801DB-ICH4 output on the laptop is very *VERY* noisy. When nothing is playing there is much static, and there doesn't seem to be much depth or "oomph" to the sound.
I am debating between a USBDAC/Amp combo (iBasso D2, Leckerton UH3, etc) and a simple USBDAC (say TBAAM).
I'm wondering if it's worth it amping my UM1s. My sources aren't too great, I listen to a bunch of 128kbps mp3s but my favourite music is encoded in 160ogg or 192aac (those ripped from CD).
Do the UM1s really shine when amped? That's what I've heard, but I'm not sure if it's worth the premium over a simple USBDAC like the TBAAM.
Any advice would be appreciated =)
Cheers
-k
I have a pair of Westone UM1 and use my IBM Thinkpad X31 for school. I've started using it for music more often, as I spend most my time in the library.
I've noticed the Intel 82801DB-ICH4 output on the laptop is very *VERY* noisy. When nothing is playing there is much static, and there doesn't seem to be much depth or "oomph" to the sound.
I am debating between a USBDAC/Amp combo (iBasso D2, Leckerton UH3, etc) and a simple USBDAC (say TBAAM).
I'm wondering if it's worth it amping my UM1s. My sources aren't too great, I listen to a bunch of 128kbps mp3s but my favourite music is encoded in 160ogg or 192aac (those ripped from CD).
Do the UM1s really shine when amped? That's what I've heard, but I'm not sure if it's worth the premium over a simple USBDAC like the TBAAM.
Any advice would be appreciated =)
Cheers
-k
