Running into bit of an issue in selecting components for a build I need to rig. I’m not too technical on Audio hardware, but need something that can push the quality of what I have now (or higher).
// Output
ATH-700X +ZM-MIC1 //Game
ATH-A900X //Music
8" Bookshelf Pair (unPowered) (120W) //Music +Movies
// Hardware
Xonar DX (7.1 PCIe x1)
The ultimate goal would be to be able to have a desktop USB DAC+AMP and switch from Headphones to Speakers easily, but I’m not beyond swapping cables. If this setup cannot be achieved, then the game setup is priority.
I would like to get the O2+ODAC for JDSLabs or Mayflower, but the main purpose for my PC is gaming. Those devices have no Microphone Jack and I need it integrated. Motherboard built-in Microphones are very poor and found that sound cards do make a difference here. I have been looking at some of the consumer DACs, mostly from Asus and Creative Labs, but the reviews are low for a lot of their products. I’ve narrowed it down to the following for my limit to around 100 USD:
Asus Xonar U7 $90
Creative Labs X-Fi HD $90
Note : Yes, I know they’re not 2 or 2.1, but the higher quality builds are on these
Note : These also have RCA output in the back so I can at least attach some speakers to them.
Note : I am aware of the Creative Labs EX-Line, but they start @130 USD and look mobile oriented, but I can make it work if Y-Splitters are not a problem.
// Questions
I am open to anything as I’m trying to rebuild quality sound on my PC and expanded it to the other computers and mediaPC in the house. I have concerns about the equipment and the following:
Q) Ultimately, will the Quality of the Desktop DAC’s >= Xonar DX?? (and push the same volume levels #loud)
Q) The bookshelf speakers are rated for 120watt, I’m not worried about exceeding them, but giving them enough juice. Would the RCA outputs require another amp for Speakers (or powered Speakers)?
Q) If someone recommends a better DAC/AMP with no RCA output, will using a Y-Splitter degrade Signal / Quality / Loudness?
Thanks to everyone in advance for their time and input. If I remember anything I left out, I’ll update the post. ^.,^