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Low Cost DACs

Currently I have my laptop connected directly via 1/8 jack from headphone outlet into 2 RCAs directly into my tube amp. Quality of sound is lacking to say the least!
I am considering adding an inexpensive DAC ( iFi AUDIO nano iDSD LE Portable DAC  or iFi Audio nano iOne DAC ) into the stream between the laptop & amp.My question is: will this influence the overall sound I'll hear out of my speakers? Will adding such a DAC help to increase the quality of sound produced by the system?
I'm not interested in spending a lot of money on a DAC as this is a source that I don't use as much as some others already in the system.
wcc10
djones51
4,947 posts
 
The SMSL Sandskrit uses an AKM 4490 chip I think SMSL is  coming out with a new DAC this spring the ( S U 9 ? )that will use the new 4499. Some like the AKM chips better than the ESS chips they claim they aren't  as anaylitical a little more " analog " sounding. The Topping D50 I mentioned before uses the ESS 9038 it's  one of the best measuring DACs but I read the new SMSL might be close if not a bit better. 
wcc10 OP
119 posts
 
I like the prospect of "analog sounding." Always preferable to Digital Sound in my opion. I've read that the SMSL Sandskri improves greatly in terms of "more punch in the bass, improved dynamics and cleaner sound overall" when using the external power source as opposed to USB via a computer. Makes sense.
f1status1's avatar
f1status1
30 posts
 
I’ve got a Meridian Director selling for $400.  It was a large difference from my built in DAC in my receiver. It’s amazing what a good DA converter can make the music sound like. 
mauriceminor
13 posts
 
www.audiosciencereview.com  
Measurements rather than golden ears
audite84
110 posts
 
I have a Micromega MyDAC for my desktop, and it is very good value for the money. Can't compare to Schiit as I haven't heard any of their gear. The Cambridge DacMagic sounds warmish compared to the MyDAC which is about neutral. 
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