I would like to finally replace my ALC887 onboard chip with an external DAC. Condition: Connection to the board only via USB. Price limit approx. 150,00€.
Earlier under Windows I once had an ASUS Xonar U7 (but broke after 2 years). Supposedly, the support under Linux is not good either. I looked at a Pro-Ject USB Box S, but that can only 16-bit Delta Sigma.
I use an M-TRACK 2X2. Works fine, doesn’t require drivers to run, and connects via USB C. There is a cheaper version if you do not need the XLR connections, and prefer standard USB.
I have no experience with the ALC887 or the Pro-Ject, so I cannot provide comparisons to those.
If you’re also looking for software to improve your audio, I can recommend Easyeffects or Viper4Linux.
As one can see, there is quite a price range on DACs. The one thing about Crutchfield, they do not sell junk. If they offer something, it is usually good quality. Although I don’t know about shipping to Germany.
If you only want improved output for a headphones, I have the AudioQuest Dragonfly Black and it works really well on EndeavourOS.
@anon50380917 Why not just a JDS Labs Atom? Its 100$ and one of the best DACs out. Its class compliant, benchmarks well, and if you combine it with the AMP which is borderline perfect output you are set for a long while.
Youll need to account for the output of the DAC and Speakers. Either you run the speakers at the max pot youre looking to have and adjust with the DAC or run the DAC at higher pot and adjust volume with the speakers.
You generally dont want to run them full pot as youll induce clipping as the amp in the active speakers likely isnt as good but also running full pot in general isnt a good idea.
I didn’t intend to do that either. So far I keep it so that the volume on the computer (total volume) is at 100% and the level is regulated with the speakers. I think this is the best solution.
Hm, USB 2.0 and then no extra power supply? Seems a bit strange, at least for the headphone amplifier. But well, for me the priority is more on the speakers output.
Am currently considering whether it should be the K5 Pro or the iFi Zen Dac. Will not rush it.
Could there be problems later when switching to PipeWire?
I’ve used a Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 for a few years and it works beautifully. Also have an ancient Tascam US-122 (1st gen!..) as a back-up My use-case is for music production though, not sure if you’re looking for that. It has 2 XLR inputs, so may be a bit much if you’re not looking to use it for that.
Edit…ahh never mind…I see you’re looking for something more along the lines of output/sound system. What I suggested is probably overkill for what you’re wanting