[HiddenFatKid]

Hey guys!
I just upgraded to Intel, and I have the Gigabyte GA-z97mx Gaming 5 motherboard and it apparently has Realtek ALC1150 115db SNR HD Audio, Creative soundblaster X-Fi MB3 gaming audio suite, and AMP-UP audio technology with exclusive upgradable OP-AMP
I have no idea what any of the above actually means.
I'm definitely getting a headphone amp, but I would like to know if I would actually benefit from a DAC? 

 

[PurpleAngel]

What headphones are you using or planning on buying?
Is this audio setup for FPS gaming or just music or watching movies or other?
 
A DAC that makes a noticeable improvement over your motherboard's on-board audio, might cost you more then what you would want to spend.
Now an external DAC would reduce any electrical noise that might be in the audio signal (if you have an electrical noise issue).
How much would you budget for a DAC?
 
Check out the Audio-GD NFB-15, external DAC/amp.
http://www.audio-gd.com/Pro/Headphoneamp/NFB1532/NFB15.32EN.htm