Low Cost DACs

So Modi 3 arrived today. Attempted to hook up with old Windows 7 laptop. Would not install even though there was software for Win 7, Drivers included. I kept getting error message "Please Connect The Cemedia USB20 Device." ?? Tried Cemida drivers, etc, no dice!
After much trial & tribulation, and many attempts at installing various drivers, I finally got the "Gen 2" version of Modi 2 to install.So it plays but I've got to say; IT DON"T SOUND NO BETTER THAN BEFORE!
USB to Modi, RCAs to amp.
VERY Disappointed! Maybe with Gen 3 drivers would sound better but don't see how to install.Guess I'll sleep on it and see what's what over the week end.

So upon further review, swapping out RCA cables & perhaps the unit burned in a little, I have to say that yes this laptop does sound better with this DAC. Soundstage is 'wider' and a little deeper. Doesn't match my OPPO or vinyl but it obviously enhances Laptop audio.Just heard from Alexander at Schiit Audio. Seems I misunderstood Gen 3 download for drivers for Modi 3. They are not. He said plugging in the USB power should get it to work. I am using an external power supply but it's funny that it did not work BEFORE I ran Gen 2 software. Go figure!.

wcc10, Windows is not detecting the USB connection.
"Please Connect The Cmedia USB 2.0 Device."
Disconnect the Modi DAC. And uninstall the drivers that you installed.
Restart after each uninstall / install with Windows 7.
After Uninstalling any installed drivers Reconnect the Modi USB Cable
and see if Windows ’detects’ Schiit USB Audio device.
If Schiit Audio USB Device is not on the ’Playback’ List then proceed to install Gen 2-3 drivers from the link on Schiit Audio website Downloads.
Links for three different versions ( v 1.16, v1.03, and Gen 3 ) for Windows 7 / 8 are available at schiit.com / drivers.
Please refer to Schiit Downloads Page for procedure and troubleshooting.
To check this open Sound > Playback Tab in Control Panel.
If Schiit USB Audio device is on the list be sure to select and Set as Default.
>> Important <<
Also check the Properties setting.
Control Panel > Sound > Playback Schiit USB Audio device > Properties > Advanced TAB > Select Format Sample Rate and Set the Sample Rate
to 24 / 192.
The Sample Rate Setting in Windows will effect the Output!
Also any Player settings! As per Schiit’s notes.
Gen 3 Drivers are necessary for Schiit’s Unison USB hardware and likely would not impart any difference in Sound.
This is sNeezy eZ no trial or tribulation is necessary.

Windows 7 is not safe to use anymore. Try to buy a new computer with Windows 10 or get Linux (requires much tech work) or a new Mac (expensive).

https://www.lansweeper.com/news/are-you-prepared-for-windows-7-end-of-life/

Low cost is a relative term $1500,$1000 for a Dac ?
value for money the MDHT tube dacs the orchid is very good under $1k ,the top dac using the BB 1704 is around $1400
i have friends who have both , the Lampizator Amber3 $2800
is by a long shot the Best Buy under $5k I sold my ps Audio $6 k 
dac and just put better tubes in sounds much more detailed and naturally musical. They offer a 2 week money back ,none of the other guys do . Tubes bring a more realistic Analog type sound 
to the performance. These dacs I know well , the mdht are excellent for the money but as soon say match the Lampizator 
Not happening I had them playing in my system .