CRZYSTNG

Something to think about here, the ZERO comes with a USB to toslink converter so you don't have to worry about the s/c, and it also has a built in headphone amp. Granted it's not the greatest, however, it can be modded to be a really good one. you can also use the rca outs on the ZERO to your current speaker amp, so when you want headphones, plug them in hit the switch, when you want external speakers, unplug the headphones and listen away.

Another route that is possible here, you could use the x-fi s/c to your external speakers and when you want the heaphones, plug in the usb port and the DAC can then be coupled with a good headphone amp. I+

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Namrac

Yes it does, the "flexijack" does optical output. Just need a 3.5mm > toslink adapter, which are on the order of $3.

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Audio Setup:
PC > TCA Gizmo > Ultralink Matrix 2s > AV123 ELT525Ms
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tUDJ

Well I never knew that, thanks. (+REP)

I might get a DAC afterall

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Sound: X-Fi Xtreme Music -> Beresford DAC -> Marantz PM4001 -> Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 / HD555
--
Upgrades soon:
Marantz CD5001
Denon ASD11R

H3||scr3am

don't forget that there are also USB DACs, that bypass the need for a sound card with SPDIF / Optical outs...

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