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

[Grabo]

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,

 

[biostud]

If you use an USB dac, then you don't use the built in audio at all.

 

[exar333]

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

 

[Grabo]

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.

 

[razel]

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.

 

[exar333]

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.