2. misc-audio
  3. 1172182115

Does an integrated DAC/Headphone amp exist?

Im looking for a cost effective way of having decent sound and work. Loudspeakers are out of the question so headphones are the ticket. I was wondering if such a device exists as to not take up too much space on my desk as well as limit the cost of cabling. I would like to keep the cost under $1000 for the headphones, cabling, DAC and amp. I want somthing that is musical and easy to listen to for 8-9 hours a day and I prefer over the ear style 'phones and open air designs as to still be able to communicate with coworkers without removing the headphones each time to talk. I would be using my PC as the source. Can anyone recommend a good starting point for each peice of this puzzle? Thanks
jlind325is

Showing 5 responses by jlind325is

jlind325is OP
113 posts
 
Thanks everyone for all the input, this whole idea is boss dependent. He has yet to okay the idea but lets hope he will. Until then thanks, Justin
jlind325is OP
113 posts
 
Well i got a no go from big boss man. Maybe i will go for a DAC at a later date and use it in the main rig. Thanks anyways guys.
jlind325is OP
113 posts
 
Thanks guys for all the suggestions. I havent looked into DACs previous to this, i didnt know so many can double as headphone amps. I think I opened up a can of worms for myself though. I have been thinking about modding my Denon 2900 or buying a new player. Would the Denon be a decent transport if i decided to get a DAC-1 or another DAC? Or would it be more cost effective to mod my player or try somthing new? Any input on this would be appreciated.
jlind325is OP
113 posts
 
Garryh-

You must be a fellow Bimmer owner. My Bimmer is a 1988 325is, mostly stock but with a few suspension mods. I've always loved the e30 body style, mine has the "ugly" bumpers which is kind of a bummer. But on the other hand it drives great from the inside. :) Shes got 223,000 on the odometer, second motor but still has the original limited slip diff. and transmission. Do you own one?
jlind325is OP
113 posts
 
Swampwalker-

I dont completley understand what your recommending with your last post, could you please clarify?

Maybe my ealier post is confusing. Now that i know that a good deal of DACs have a headphone output i could then use said DAC in a double duty way, at home for reference listening as well as at work. I would then have to bring the DAC to work when i felt like it. The Denon will be staying in my 2 channel setup. The reason i was asking about DACs and hp amps was to use my PC at work as the source since i have a good amount of tunes on the hard drive. Maybe this helps. Thanks
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