Speedballed Crack inbound: Crap!@ My Dac!

[bmilcs]

Hey guys,

I'm very new to the audiophile community and could use some help!

My current audio setup is as follows:

PC -> Focusrite 2i2 Audio Interface ->
- Audio Technica AT2020 via XLR on front
- HD650's via Headphone AMP Jack *Gross!*
- JBL 305 Monitors via the two RCA out on the back

From what I've gathered, I should alternate the RCA out on the back with a RCA splitter which would allow me to use the 2i2 as a DAC. I could then swap between my monitors and then my Crack -> HD650. The more I think about it, the more I'm leaning toward buying a budget dedicated DAC just for my Crack.

What do you guys suggest I do? The Crack has been shipped and I don't have any RCA splitters, dedicated DAC's and so on. I would really like to order something quickly from Amazon Prime so that I could be all set.

I happen to have about $175 sitting in Paypal for just this occasion. I was thinking from my youtube and reddit research that I should pick up an ODAC as it's a neutral flavored DAC. I guess the 2i2 will not fit the bill, even using the RCA out on the back.

I really want to get the most out of my setup and hate that I feel I'm in a rush! The last thing I want is to build this bad boy, plug it into my crappy 2i2 and be let down.

I am by no means an audio professional. I work for an insurance company and am just looking to build one sexy audio setup for gaming and music. I primarily listen to classic rock and 90's alternative, but dabble in mostly everything.

Thanks in advance,
Bryan

 

[Paul Birkeland]

Other than USB, do you have any other digital outputs available on your computer? (Toslink or SPDIF?)

 

[bmilcs]

Other than USB, do you have any other digital outputs available on your computer? (Toslink or SPDIF?)

Hmm, I have noboard audio is "Crystal Sound 2". My board is the Asus Z97-A.

 

[bmilcs]

Hmm, I have noboard audio is "Crystal Sound 2". My board is the Asus Z97-A.

Realtek® ALC892 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC featuring Crystal Sound 2
- Supports : Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel MIC Jack-retasking
Audio Feature :
- Absolute Pitch 192kHz/ 24-bit True BD Lossless Sound
- DTS Ultra PC II
- DTS Connect
- Optical S/PDIF out port(s) at back panel
- Audio Shielding: Ensures precision analog/digital separation and greatly reduced multi-lateral interference
- Dedicated audio PCB layers: Separate layers for left and right channels to guard the quality of the sensitive audio signals
- Audio amplifier: Provides the highest-quality sound for headphone and speakers
- Premium Japanese-made audio capacitors: Provide warm, natural and immersive sound with exceptional clarity and fidelity
- Unique de-pop circuit: Reduces start-up popping noise to audio outputs
- Top notch audio sensation delivers according to the audio configuration
- EMI protection cover to prevent electrical noise to affect the amplifier quality

 

[Paul Birkeland]

- Optical S/PDIF out port(s) at back panel

You'll want to use that with whatever DAC suits your fancy, as it will be nice and quiet.

 

[bmilcs]

You'll want to use that with whatever DAC suits your fancy, as it will be nice and quiet.

Thanks Paul!

That one response just cost me another $225 ;D

I was leaning toward an ODAC in the future. However, after some research, I pulled the trigger on the following:

Modi 2 Uber
10' Optical Cable
1.5' RCA to RCA
New Belkin 12 Outlet surge protector to ensure I have the power

How did I do?

 

[bmilcs]

Should I hear a substantial difference with coming from a sole Scarlet 2i2 and the Bottlehead Crack, Speedball, Modi 2 Uber and proper cabling? I really, really hope so!

 

[Tom-s]

I used the Modi 2U with Crack for almost a year with great results.
I'm sure you'll like the combination.
Also owned a HD650 for a while and used it with great pleasure.
Sold it after a month or so because i liked my AKG K340s better.
Sold the Modi 2u for the Gustard X20U, i like that one better. But the Modi 2U is the best for the little money spend.