I am looking for a DAC for use with my computer. I see we have a thread dedicated to this type of search. I want to use a audio power amp with bookshelf type speakers as headphones tend to give me a headache and at times I just want some background noise. The problem I am having selecting a DAC is many times it is not clearly stated if the DAC is for use with headphones or headphones and a power amp. Is it more than the manufacture simply providing the correct outputs for a power amp or is there actual internal differences with a DAC that is primarily intended for use with headphones?
I see that the number one recommendation given here in order to improve you audio experience is "get off that motherboard" (meaning use a soundcard or a discrete DAC). I ask with the type of isolated audio circuitry that is becoming common on many motherboards these days is this recommendation still standing?
I would be so much happier if people that want to go the discrete DAC-power amp-bookshelf speakers were more clearly represented. I know this info is here but you do have to dig a bit to get it.
Oh one last thing. Playing around with Blu-ray is an interesting idea but finding a DAC that accepts HDMI input is challenging and it seems DACs that accept HDMI input carry a premium. Is it a total waste of money (wait I am on OCN where we look to find ways to spend). Get two DACs,one for Blu-ray devices that have HDMI output and a USB,S/PDIF,,coaxial input DAC for audio? I know I said "one last thing" but I am finding some DACs have the ability to change their output voltages. I have read that while not the most important feature, offering the strongest signal to your audio power amp is a benefit. Should I try and find one of these DACs that have this variable voltage feature?
I am finding computer audio to be very interesting and it seems it is possible to experiment on a budget
I see that the number one recommendation given here in order to improve you audio experience is "get off that motherboard" (meaning use a soundcard or a discrete DAC). I ask with the type of isolated audio circuitry that is becoming common on many motherboards these days is this recommendation still standing?
I would be so much happier if people that want to go the discrete DAC-power amp-bookshelf speakers were more clearly represented. I know this info is here but you do have to dig a bit to get it.
Oh one last thing. Playing around with Blu-ray is an interesting idea but finding a DAC that accepts HDMI input is challenging and it seems DACs that accept HDMI input carry a premium. Is it a total waste of money (wait I am on OCN where we look to find ways to spend). Get two DACs,one for Blu-ray devices that have HDMI output and a USB,S/PDIF,,coaxial input DAC for audio? I know I said "one last thing" but I am finding some DACs have the ability to change their output voltages. I have read that while not the most important feature, offering the strongest signal to your audio power amp is a benefit. Should I try and find one of these DACs that have this variable voltage feature?
I am finding computer audio to be very interesting and it seems it is possible to experiment on a budget