Netbook to USB DAC to Headphone Amp on Batteries

Thanks for ideas so far....

Swampwalker, have you listened to the music streamer?

Re one box vs. two, I don't mind an extra box, cables and a bit of weight, but would want the performance to justify it.

I have both the Grado headphone amp and a somewhat vintage, supposedly state of the art at the time amp from the guys at Headroom - the "Cosmic" I think.

Hence, my search for a high quality portable DAC to use with either of these devices.

If either the Grado or Cosmic amp, or any of the separate box DACs are nothing to write home about, then sure - I could sell the Grado amp and just buy one of the all in one box solutions - there seems to be quite a few.

Within reason however (with respect to weight and/or cost), my priority is performance, not low cost or convenience.

Jax2

Thanks for the excellent research and links - just finished working my way through them. Justin from Pico sounds like a true enthusiast - could be a one box solution...

Jondkaufman - the Wavelength looks very nice too - not sure about the weight or value per $$$....

More to choose from here than I would have imagined...would love to see the results of a "shoot out" with high resolution headphones.

Pugstub,

Before completing my research, I impulsively ordered a Nuforce UDAC.

It arrived quickly, and I was also impressed with the finish, build quality and cool LED light. Very small and USB powered, so also perfect for traveling.

On this morning's commute, I tried it out with my Lenovo netbook, iTunes and a pair of in ear Shure headphones.

This reminded me why I got into this hobby about 30 years ago:

Despite the bashing that we audiophiles sometimes receive for being preoccupied with equipment and tinkering, it felt like the first time in a few thousand miles of recent commuting and business travel that I forgot about the equipment and really enjoyed listening to music.

This may not be the state of the art solution for portable USB audio, but it was very enjoyable and thanks for the tip.

Of course, no self respecting audiophile would stop with any solution simply because they were satisfied and happy, so please do continue with any suggestions for the ultimate quality in portable devices.

When I have the chance, I will try using the Nuforce device simply as a DAC, with RCA out to my Head Room or Grado head phone amp.

cwlondon