Hi there! I’ve recently upgraded my Superlux HD681 EVO’s to DT 990 PRO (250 OHM). I am using MSI z97 Gaming 5 motherboard. I’ve decided to go with this one due to its presumably superior audio (quite good audio chip, isolated audio line, ability to connect power directly from PSU). Even though the mobo is supposed to run headphones that are up to 600 OHM I am under the impression that the sound I’m getting is a bit bleak and flat. The biggest indicator that something might not be right is that even at 100% volume the headphones aren’t playing loud at all.
After investing in the motherboard from MSI I was at least expecting my 250 OHM headphones to be running ok on it. Hence why my question to other users of MSI z97 and DT 990’s - what’s your experience so far?
Secondly which DAC+AMP would you recomend as an alternative? I know this option is quite far out there, but I heared some really enthusiastic reviews of DT990 + Aune T1 MK II… (I’d consider this at the edge of my price limit at this point).
It sounds more like amplification needs most likely not DAC. Amazon reviews of the Aune state that it can lockup. If your application volume in the application, windows and audio driver are all three @ 3/4 and you still feel it's not loud enough pick You have two options:
1) According to your manual on pg 1-28, your motherboard has a switch labeled AUD_SW1 that provides more power to the audio subsystem. To use it
Power off Connect the "Direct Audio Power Connector” (AUDPWR1) see page 1-7 Move the AUD_SW1 switch to Direct Power Power back on
According to MSI this is only for the audio jacks on the back of the motherboard.
or option 2 2) Pick up an amp. I'd recommend JDS Labs Objective2 @ $150 if you're max budget is $199. Unless you have used a tube amp before and can hear the difference, I'd stay with mainstream bang for the buck - JDSL O2. Link 1 Link 2 You can get a custom version with ports repositioned if you like. Second tab of this sheet has other opitons.