So I was nervous awhile ago, I dipped my toes in the “Budget water” via syba sonic 96khz DAC, paired with shp 9500. I got sucked in, I have a kid and a gf to try to hide this fetish from… So, I would like to find a nice upgrade for overall gaming + some music. Prefer not to spend over $300 (if that’s possible) to get an upgrade at that price point… IDK plz halp. I like bass. also, I would like to be able to hook my mic in and not have to buy a bunch of RCA cables if possible.
2 Likes
Welcome! Yes, the vortex of hifi will suck you in quickly. Enjoy the ride!
One of my favorite entry level DAC/AMP combos that I’ve used is the Schiit Hel ($189). Nice construction, good sound, and lots of flexibility. It’ll drive a wide range of headphones, and you won’t need to upgrade until you are ready to spend quite a bit more money on headphones. Also, in the long run there’s lots of nice uses for it when it’s not your main rig.
Whatever you buy, I would get the new DAC/AMP first and try it with your SHP9500 before buying your next headphone. You’ll get a nice bump in sound quality with just a better DAC/AMP. Then you’ll have a better sense for if you need new headphones right away or not.
Ok does that one have the usb option? I ask this because my desk is already littered with cables and idk if I have the space for a single extra cable lol.
Yikes… looks like the hel schiit is on back order.
Yes, usb input.
Almost everything with Schiit is backordered right now. Production / supply chain challenges. And they are setting up a new factory in Texas.
I picked mine up used for $125, you may be able to find someone willing to part with theirs.
ok so by usb input u mean i can hook it up to my pc with usb right?
Edit - my previous comment was incorrect. You need to use the supplied USB power supply to power the device. Then connect to your PC via USB for data. Apologies for any confusion.
Check out the FAQ on the Schitt page - good info, and entertaining.
Schiit Audio: Audio Products Designed and Built in California
Ok, thanks. is it better to do USB as the connection to the computer or is there a better alternative?
I mean there are limitless alternatives, what constitutes as “better” is up to debate. Let me start by asking if you want something portable or something for desktop use(or both).
Beyerdynamic MMX300 is an Argon in disguise with a hybrid class A tube amp from Xduoo like the TA10 would be a killer stealth setup and the MMX300 is a closed back super wide sounding beyer that would be a great compliment to your current shp9500 setup.
You do need to change pads to another pad setup if recommend the choice leather from Dekoni
