Headphone Assistance | DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm
Headphone Assistance | DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm
Hi! I just purchased a DT 770 Pro 80 Ohms. I noticed some users use DAC/AMP setups while others connect directly to the motherboard. My concern is whether my MSI B450 A PRO MAX can power it. I think it should work, but what about the audio quality? I see that most people who plug straight into the motherboard have high-end models with an op-amp. You can find more details about the motherboard here: https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/B450-A-PRO-MAX/Overview. It uses a Realtek® ALC892/ALC897 codec. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
ALC8xx are typical audio codecs. A dedicated dac/amp or sound card might offer a minor improvement, but you probably won’t be significantly affected by connecting them directly to your motherboard. I also have DT770 pros and usually just connect them to whatever device is easiest. I once had a dedicated sound blaster Z in my PC but didn’t see much difference compared to the onboard alc892 audio, so I removed it. Use the rear ports on your motherboard instead of a headphone jack in the case—those internal jacks often lack good shielding.
ALC8xx are typical audio codecs. A dedicated dac/amp or sound card might offer a minor improvement, but you probably won’t be significantly affected by connecting them directly to your motherboard. I also have DT770 pros and usually just connect them to whatever device is easiest. I once had a dedicated sound blaster Z in my PC but didn’t see much difference compared to the onboard alc892 audio, so I removed it. Use the rear ports on your motherboard instead of a headphone jack in your case. The internal wiring for those jacks isn’t always well shielded.
Thank you for the update! I noticed today something is not right with my motherboard's rear and front jacks, possibly due to a broken rear jack causing static noise. I found scratches on the audio paths during inspection. I plan to send it to warranty; if they decline, I might consider aftermarket repairs. This could affect sound quality. Should I post another question in the Motherboards thread?
Scratches on the board are physical damage that the warranty will not cover.