First HQ PC Audio setup: HD6XX + Atom (Question)

[Digs]

Hello audiophiles. I recently purchased a JDS Labs Atom Amp and Sennheiser Massdrop 6XX headphones. I have the amp and will be getting the headphones Friday. This is my first "high-end" audio setup and I'll be using it with my PC. I've never used headphones with an amp before.

I did not purchase a DAC because I'm not so sure I'll need one yet. My motherboard has Crystal Sound 3 (Realtek S1220A Codec) with an EMI protection cover and it's positioned on the motherboard in a way that should limit any noise.

What is the best way to connect the amp to my PC? Should I use line-out on the back of the motherboard or use the headphone jack on the top of the PC case?

Should I connect the amp using a 3.5mm cable? The JDS Labs Atom amp has a 3.5mm input on the back. I also bought a RCA to 3.5mm female adapter so I could connect it that way too. Does it make a difference? I would doubt it but I'm not 100% sure.

 

[Bookmark]

Presuming the motherboard does not have the RCA connections. Then a 3.5 to 3.5 stereo cable from the PC line out to the line in of Atom. You will probably gain nothing by using a 3.5 to RCA Y cable but you can give it a try. Do not use the PC headphone connector unless you are plugging in the headphones directly and foregoing the amp. The Senniheisers are 300 Ohm so its too high a resistance for phones or tables. You would need something sub 50 Ohm rating unless you add an amp. The PC should manage ok, though it might be lack outright volume.
Some swear by external DACs, though they tend toward the pricier end and often most can't honestly tell the difference unless the PC has noise problems.
Depending upon the format of your music library then Kodi or Foobar2000 are good choices for managing your collection. Unless this is an Apple avoid using iTunes like the plague, even installing it on PCs can cause issues.

 

[Audiosaur]

You're going to love the 6XX, Digs. They have exceptional clarity. I don't have a dedicated headphone amp so I'll often use either an IPad or my laptop but, as Bookmark suggests, volume is limited. The best response is directly into my AVR. I suspect you'll get similar performance from the Atom, though. Good luck and happy listening.