Balanced DAC Recommendations

[Transmaniacon]

Hi guys,

I am looking to see if I can get better performance from my PC's stereo system. I currently have a Lexicon Alpha audio interface connected to my PC via USB, and a pair of Mackie MR5MK2 studio monitors connected via balanced TRS.

I notice some interference on occasion, likely being picked up by the interface from the computer, and am hoping to upgrade to something a little more capable. I like having the volume control from the interface, and would like to keep the balanced outputs to my monitors.

I am looking for some recommendations for a DAC with balanced outputs, and I am trying to stay south of $400.

I see the Emotiva XDA-2 is on sale right now, would this suffice for my purposes? Also, is USB the ideal output from a PC, or should I use optical?

Thanks

 

[Irvrobinson]

What does this interference sound like?

 

[Transmaniacon]

It's kind of like static when things are quiet. Not loud, and it only lasts a few seconds, but nonetheless it is something I would like to eliminate. Also the Lexicon is USB-powered so I have to turn my monitors off before I turn off my PC, not a hassle just would prefer something that is designed to be more permanent.

 

[cpp]

Hi guys,

I am looking for some recommendations for a DAC with balanced outputs, and I am trying to stay south of $400.

I see the Emotiva XDA-2 is on sale right now, would this suffice for my purposes?

Thanks

For south of $400 that's about it along with the Cambridge DacMagic 100 @ $369 (Audio Advisor) or for $75 bucks more the Parasound Zdac.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

another option I used with my balanced monitors is optical from pc to audioengine d1 and shielded ,but unbalanced cables to monitors
Most modern pcs have optical out.

I looked hard and long but in end decided against going with balanced dac

I think D1 costed me about $150 after online coupon I found (ordered on manufacturer site)

 

[Transmaniacon]

That Zdac looks great, but it's more than I want to spend. Unfortunately the DacMagic 100 doesn't have volume control or balanced outputs, so it seems the XDA-2 is about it.

Are there any other options without balanced outputs in my price range? My monitors are on stands next to my desk, so I probably won't gain much from balanced connections, just thought it would be a nice perk.

 

[Irvrobinson]

It's kind of like static when things are quiet. Not loud, and it only lasts a few seconds, but nonetheless it is something I would like to eliminate. Also the Lexicon is USB-powered so I have to turn my monitors off before I turn off my PC, not a hassle just would prefer something that is designed to be more permanent.

That static sounds like it's from a mobile phone. If so, balanced cables won't eliminate it. If you're carrying a mobile phone in your pocket or have it laying on the desk or whatever, try keeping it away from the system and see if that improves things.

I understand your convenience preferences. There are so many DAC/pre-amps on the market, the XDA2 is probably a fine choice in that price range.

 

[Transmaniacon]

another option I used with my balanced monitors is optical from pc to audioengine d1 and shielded ,but unbalanced cables to monitors
Most modern pcs have optical out.

I looked hard and long but in end decided against going with balanced dac

I think D1 costed me about $150 after online coupon I found (ordered on manufacturer site)

Thanks for that information! I am beginning to think I may not need balanced also. Did you compare the Audioengine D1 to any other DACs in that range?

 

[Transmaniacon]

That static sounds like it's from a mobile phone. If so, balanced cables won't eliminate it. If you're carrying a mobile phone in your pocket or have it laying on the desk or whatever, try keeping it away from the system and see if that improves things.

I understand your convenience preferences. There are so many DAC/pre-amps on the market, the XDA2 is probably a fine choice in that price range.

Well that is interesting, I do keep my phone on my desk when I am at the computer. I am going to test it this evening and see if that's what it is! Thanks for the information! If I still wanted to upgrade (damn that upgrade bug), do you think I would see noticeable performance going from a basic audio interface to a mid-range DAC? I guess it is probably subjective, just trying to gauge if this step is a big enough one to justify upgrading.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

Thanks for that information! I am beginning to think I may not need balanced also. Did you compare the Audioengine D1 to any other DACs in that range?

Well, I don't have much to compare it to - I don't own a DAC selling store but it's significantly better than Behringer UCA202 I do own. Especially if you use it as headphones amp
It's also much much smaller than emotiva unit
I also like it more than Fiio E10

 

[Transmaniacon]

I would wager my interface is probably on par with the UCA202, so it's good that my price range provides a worthwhile increase in quality.

Updated Requirements:

DAC with asynchronous USB
Volume Control
< $400 (Though if a $200 DAC is pretty comparable to something for $400, then I am would be happy saving some cash)

 

[jcunwired]

Would a new sound card like the Asus Xonar Essence help?

 

[Transmaniacon]

That would, except then I lose the physical volume control. Here is my short list:

Matrix Mini-I
Audioengine D1
Emotiva XDA-2
TEAC UD-H01

Edit: The TEAC volume knob is only for the headphone amp, so that is out. There is the Matrix Mini-I however would work, I guess it comes down to if the Matrix is worth double the cost of the D1.

 

[jcunwired]

Well, there's a virtual physical volume control.

 

[Transmaniacon]

Yeah but that requires me to alt-tab out of a game or exit full screen every time I need to change the volume; I much prefer having a physical dial that I can adjust.