DAC ES9118 versus ES9023p

[marstonman]

Hi folks

 

I am building a new computer system this summer, and I am looking for excellent (being a relative term) onboard audio.  The computer will be connected directly to Audioengine A5+ speakers (no other external components, no sound card). 

 

I was originally set on the Aorus board below, but recent reviews now have me looking at the Asus board as an alternative.

 

Aorus (https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/Z390-AORUS-MASTER-rev-10#kf)

Asus (https://www.asus.com/ca-en/Motherboards/ROG-MAXIMUS-XI-HERO-WI-FI/)

 

Both have ESS SABRE DAC.  The Aorus has ES9118 (http://www.esstech.com/index.php/en/products/sabre-digital-analog-converters/sabre-hifi-mobile-dacs/sabre-hifi-stereo-integrated-dacs/es9118/) while the Asus has ES9023p (http://www.esstech.com/files/4114/4095/2154/ES9023_PB_101103.pdf).  

 

For gaming, music playback and video streaming, is there any discernible difference between these audio platforms?  I have no technical knowledge, so please dumb down your responses as much as possible.

 

Many thanks.

[firedog]

The DAC chip on each board is not going to make any difference in what you hear. Something else might, but not the 2 different models of chip. Make your choice based on some other factor or feature. 

[marstonman]

Thanks very much for the clarification!