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Audio out via USB-> DAC, how relevant is the built-in audio circuit?

G

Grabo

Senior member
Hello,

I'm struggling to gain an understanding of a probably basic concept, i.e the role and impact of the sound circuitry :built into motherboard->USB DAC->amplifier vs a USB soundcard incl DAC like a Xonar U7->amplifier (product description mentions headphone amplifier and headphone and speaker out, so speaker out ..needs to go to an amplifier?).

If I had a Yamaha S-A500 stereo amplifier (no DAC) and a Ciúnas DAC for a pair of Audio Monitor RX6 speakers, would something like the Xonar U7 be a better-sounding option because while the DAC might be somewhat lower grade the "sound circuitry" would be better than the computer's built-in Realtek sound?

Have gotten the impression that it wouldn't be but if anyone could explain I'd be grateful.

Thanks,
 
If you want better sound, an external (not MB not USB) DAC would be best IMHO.

MB -> (d-coax, optical, etc.) DAC -> (RCA or XLR) Amp/Receiver -> Speakers
 
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Thank you both for your replies! Appreciated.

Exar: Any DAC in particular you'd recommend?

The Ciúnas is supposed to mostly eliminate any hisses and crackles thanks to running off its own battery; Ciúnas is apparently "silence" (gaelic) and most reviews would seem to agree that this it does.

I have also read that the Dragonfly DAC 1.2 is supposed to not crackle and pop if connected to a self-powered USB hub (though that might vary greatly between USB hubs) and that it sounds a lot more "expensive" than its price would suggest.
 
Perhaps I've been lucky but I haven't had any major issues with USB DACs. Most of the time my output has been HDMI to a receiver, but I have friends and family DJs with basic M-Audio/Behringer DACs. Yes, the ones they have are overbuilt, but even the cheap $30-$40 ones from guitar center that are ADC/DAC for USB recording are troublefree and no surprises with pop/clicks/etc. They just all work.

Point being, uber-expensive DACs are for people who care to pay for the difference. The good news is DACs are fantastic in general these days. Head over to headphone.com and/or audioadvisor.com and checkout their basic DAC that are under $50. It's all you'll need. If you intend to spend more, don't forget that home theater receivers can be bought in the $250 range and also make great HDMI/optical/COAX DACs. If you want to support America, the Mayflower Electronics DACs are top-notch in their $150 price range.
 
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Fulla USB DAC/Amp is great under $100. For under $200 Cambridge makes some good standalone options or you can get one used too for ~$100.
 
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