[Recommendation Needed] Looking for entry level sound card+DAC+amp set for my PC and DT880 Pro Headphone, budget 1000
As stated in the title, I'm looking for a budget pc-hifi setup for my Beyerdynamic DT880 Pro 250ohm， I have 1000 USD handy for that, I need a good soundcard for my PC, a DAC and a headphone amplifier.
Currently I'm looking at the Creative X-Fi Titanium, I would like to know if it is a good card for audiophiles.
I usually listem to some classic music like symphony, orchestra and violin/piano solos, also some classic vocal/pop/folk/country music.
I heard that tube amplifiers sounds very sweet, what do you guys recommend?
Thank you guys in advance:)
One of the Benchmark DACs, without hesitation. It wouldn't be entry standard though, more of a reference standard, indeed a benchmark.
It would also be the base for a very good active system if you ever went down that route due to also being a good preamp.
Check out the Yulong D100 (excellent external DAC/headphone amp) maybe in combination with the Yulong A100 (dedicated headphone amp).
Both are a real bargain, available for purchase on ebay.
I have the D100 (not the new mkII) standalone as DAC handling all my Stereo tasks as link between TV/NAS and my oldschool preamp/amp.
I am very pleased by the results.
Regards
thank you guys but benchmark's DAC is out of my budget range~
the yulong products seems attractive, I could keep an eye on them, do you guys still have any other recommendations?~:)
Did you check out the Slee Bitzie? You can arrange a two week home loan.
thank you guys but benchmark's DAC is out of my budget range~
Don't be so sure! I use a Benchmark DAC1 (975 USD) + M-Audio Transit USB (75 USD) to drive my AKG K701s. So that setup was just $50 over your budget (new). If you want to spend less, then you can get a used DAC1 on Audiogon (or a refurbished one direct from Benchmark) for $700.
Have a look at this.
http://www.gspaudio.co.uk/bitzie-usb-dac-external-soundcard.htm
Source 1) "Inspired" Manticore Mantra turntable c/w Rega RB 301 arm, Goldring 1042 MM Cartridge, Graham Slee Reflex M phono stage, Graham Slee CuSat 50 interconnect
Source 2) Cyrus CD8 SE CD player
Source 3) iTunes (ALAC), iMac, Devolo Homeplugs, Apple TV3, Toslink, Arcam rDAC
Source 4) Technics SL-7 linear tracking turntable.
Roksan Kandy L3 amp, Spendor A5 speakers.
Other rooms: more Airport Expresses and Homeplugs with Denon AV system and Denon Mini system.