Do you require an AMP/DAC with your headphones?
Do you require an AMP/DAC with your headphones?
Hello, I currently have a Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 ohm headset. I'm curious if purchasing a more affordable 100$ amp/dac would really enhance the audio experience or if my motherboard can fully make use of this device. Since I'm already at full volume on Windows, it should help with power but not necessarily with sound quality. With 100% volume set, it seems like the main factor is volume rather than clarity. My motherboard is a TUF GAMING B550-PLUS with a Realtek S1200A codec—if this information is useful. If you think it could make a difference in sound, could you recommend a good budget amp/dac?
Audio is a personal matter, even though six people claimed they could detect differences with various equipment. That doesn’t guarantee you’ll notice them in an A/B test, and some might even prefer a less technically perfect option. Still, aiming for the best possible sound quality is worthwhile on paper, so if you feel...
Because you have both the headphone and the board, I recommend giving it a test. You might want to check with a friend or someone who owns an amp/DAC to see if your headphones work properly. Sound quality can differ from person to person, so some may find what they're expecting while others might not be able to tell what's wrong.
Unfortunately, I don't know anyone with an amp/dac, so I'm asking because maybe someone else has the same setup and noticed a big improvement. It's possible others might have seen it too, or they could be aware of potential upgrades based on my motherboard. Amps and dacs aren't inexpensive, and I can't just return them unless they're defective when purchased.
I’m not a serious audiophile, but I’ve liked improving my audio gear over the past couple of years. Like you, I hesitated to invest in something without trying it first. I chose the Schiit Asgard 3 with a multibit DAC and waited for a good price on a used one, so I could sell it if I didn’t like it or if improvements weren’t noticeable. It turned out to be a great decision—really noticeable upgrade, looks brand new but cost about 60% less than the new price.
Audio is a personal matter, even though six people claimed they could notice differences with various equipment. That doesn’t guarantee you’ll see them in an A/B test, and some might even prefer a less technically advanced option. Still, aiming for the best possible sound quality is worthwhile. If you’re thinking about upgrading, it’s not a bad idea to do so. You can usually find used gear on Craigslist or similar sites, or a new setup like the FX Audio DAC-X6 is affordable and reliable under $100, making it a solid starter choice. I’ve used it without needing to upgrade later.