I think my brain might explode!

[Megido]

I have been driving myself crazy trying to wrap my head around this whole computer audiophile world. My entire music library consists of loss-less CD rips. I fell like The highs are too harsh and I can very quickly become fatigued to the point of frequently skipping around my library and not playing songs all the way through. I don't have this problem when playing vinyl through the same receiver and speakers that my computer is connected too. I think what I need to do is upgrade to a DAC but I am not sure what I should be looking for. My sound blaster has an S/PDIF out and can support up to 24/96 output. Since my entire music library consists of CD rips do I need a dac that can go that high or would I still get much better sound from a 16 bit dac? I am on a budget so I am trying not to spend more than I need to. The more I read the more confused I get.

 

I have been looking at the nuforce Icon HDP but I am wondering if I would be satisfied with something a bit less expensive. I know it's not hugely expensive but I am a college student and every dollar counts.

 

[BobH]

may be to swap out the soundcard. Something like the Xonar Essence ST or STX, or the ESI Juli@ may be all you need right now to at least be happy with things. Both cards have a good reputation - I run the digital out from an Essence ST to my TacT and am thoroughly happy with the set-up.

 

I have listened to the analogue outputs of the Essence and, though not up to the standards of using the digital output/Tact, they would certainly do good service if required. Stereophile have a review of the Xonar Essence here if your interested.

 

[Egon]

I think it's correct that the DAC is likely the issue for you, and a better soundcard may do the trick for you. I'd also look at the m-audio soundcard options along with the previous suggestions. I own an M-Audio card and have been happy with it for years, but the ones above have similar great reputations for the money.

 

[Audio_ELF]

I've been hearing good things about some of the Chinese built DACs that are available at bargain price on eBay.

 

The Aune Mini-DAC especially - can be connected via USB - and (if relevant) has a reasonable headphone amp.

 

Eloise