AMP, DAC, Both?

[FunkyFeatures]

Hi there!

 

I was looking at improving my audio as I listen to music and podcasts alot (both at work and at home).

I was under the impression that a DAC is where the "quality" comes from and the AMP is just what amplifies the power, so if you already have enough power you don't need one?

But then I looked at the Schiit Modi 2, and it seemingly has no headphone-out, how come?

My budget is £125 (EU), so if you have other suggestions, they are welcome.

[Oshino Shinobu]

The Schiit Modi 2 is designed to go into an AMP which then has a stereo output on the front (mostly designed to be in a stack with the Magni). That doesn't mean you can't use the Modi 2 straight from the DAC, you'd just need RCA to 3.5mm (or 1/4" if you use that) and plug the headphones into that. 

 

[Jdnoss1234]

So all dac's need that have an amp. The difference is whether they are in the same box or separate ones. The Schiit Modi 2 is of the latter. What you are really after is the Schiit Fulla 2 as it is the best for that price. The better question is do you need an external dac and amp? What headphones do you have? 

[anothertom]

2 hours ago, Oshino Shinobu said:

<wrong>

No, that's not correct. It outputs a pre-amplified signal at a level that wouldn't drive headphones. Also, amp isn't an acronym and there's no need to shout.

 

The Modi needs an amp after it to take the signal and make it usable, both for headphones and speakers.

 

If you only have €125 then look at the suggested equipment thread (helpfully pinned at the top of the audio sub-forum) and you'll find some suggestions and answers to the questions you asked here.

[Dackzy]

2 hours ago, FunkyFeatures said:

But then I looked at the Schiit Modi 2, and it seemingly has no headphone-out, how come?

 

because it is a pure DAC.... Which means no amp. For 125£ you can get the Fulla 2, which would be fine, but what headphones are you even using? It might make more sense to upgrade those...

[GamerDude]

Dackzy has it correct (listen to him), the Modi/Modi 2 is a pure DAC, which is why it's usually paired with an amp, like the Magni/Magni 2. Such a setup is called a stack since two separate components are required.

 

As Dackzy had suggested, the Fulla 2 (like my Oppo HA1 and my Fostex HP-A4) is also called a DAC, but unlike the Modi, the Fulla 2 is a Combi, meaning it also has an amp section built into it. I have a Combi too, in the Gustard H10 (amp) + X12 (DAC) stack which I love to death.

[FunkyFeatures]

Ok, thanks to all of you for helping me, I did not know I could not get away with just a DAC.

 

Q: What headphones?
A: Currently, Sennheiser g4me ones, apparently based on HD598/558 drivers, so not so much gaming headset, but I plan on picking up either a HD6xx or a DT 990 Pro through work.

 

I had looked at the Fulla, but by reviews it does not seem to be all that great, both build and a little bit sound quality.

 

I will keep looking, especially at the sticky that was pointed out, thanks for now.

[seduce_me]

Get better headphones first in your case. HD6XX/HD600/HD650 is a good choice.