Click to view our Accessibility Statement or contact us with accessibility-related questions
Dac/amp combos vs a reciever for headphones
TL;DR: Ive been using a reciever for a power source for headphones. Am I missing out on anything for not using a dac/amp combo?
So I got a nice Pioneer reciever from a thrift shop for $15. It was originally for my 5.1 setup, but I noticed it had a quarter inch headphone jack and tried them with the Hifiman, AKG, and Sennheisers from Massdrop. All of them sounded really good. I even plugged in some okayish sounding earphones into them using the adapter, and it brought out so much detail.
Any of you guys do this and compare it to an amp/dac combo?
search
close
Sort by: Newest
keyboard_arrow_downBetaWar
193
Jan 23, 2019
Receivers are, at least normally, quite capable as an integrated DAC/AMP. Are they the absolute best for headphones? No, as they are typically aimed more towards driving floor speakers. However, that doesn't mean they are bad at dealing with headphones either.
I haven't done an extensive comparison between receiver and DAC/AMP stack, but I have tried out a few of my headphones on my receiver and they do sound good. I would say that overall I prefer my stack over the receiver, but that is mostly because of location - my stack is by my computer whereas my receiver is in the family room. I most frequently listen to music at my computer.
ElectronicVices
2940
Jan 23, 2019
Most of the Massdrop offerings should be just fine from a receiver but dedicated headphone amplifiers have their benefits as do dedicated DAC's. Is benefit directly proportional to cost... no but there is benefit to be had. You have to decide if you are willing to pay for it. If money is tight don't lose any sleep over it.
PRODUCTS YOU MAY LIKE
Trending Posts in Audiophile
AntonetteCBak
Tips for Setting Up a Trading Desk with a Laptop
Creating an efficient and organized trading desk with just a Best laptops for trading requires a strategic approach to maximize productivity and trading success. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trader, having the right setup ensures seamless execution of trades, minimizes errors, and keeps you focused. Below are essential tips to set up a professional trading desk using a laptop. Invest in a high-performance laptop tailored to trading needs. Opt for a model with a fast processor (e.g., Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7), at least 16GB of RAM, and a solid-state drive (SSD) for quick data access. Ensure the laptop has multiple ports for connecting peripherals and a high-resolution display for crisp chart visibility. Trading often involves monitoring multiple charts, news feeds, and trading platforms simultaneously. Connect your laptop to external monitors using HDMI or USB-C ports to expand your workspace. Dual or triple monitor setups allow for better multitasking and a...
Nov 21, 2024
abhinavkumar
Company Information in Dubai
Get comprehensive company information in Dubai, including registration requirements, licensing options, and compliance guidelines. Whether you’re exploring free zones, mainland, or offshore setups, our expert resources provide insights to help you make informed business decisions. Navigate Dubai’s business landscape with clarity, from legal requirements to operational support for a successful establishment. For more details:- https://leelainternational.com/
Nov 21, 2024
Leafwise
Show off your carry / bag / case / setup for your Head-Fi gear ✨
As subject, what do y'all carry your gear in for out-and-about/day-to-day and then for travel, if anything other than pockets?
Nov 19, 2024
keegu22
More bass!
I currently have the the HD 6XX, which sound great but, I'm am looking to upgrade the power of the bass as i really enjoy punchy low end EDM music. Any suggestions in the $200-$300 price range would be awesome.
Nov 13, 2024
danielj9
Trying to add Topping LA90D amp to Topping A9D preamp
Any help would be appreciated...I added an amp to my streamer, dac, headphone amp/preamp system and am now not getting any music through the headphone jacks on the preamp - the specifics: Wiim Pro Plus - optical connection to - Topping D50 iii dac - TSR to XLR connection to - Topping A9D headphone amp/preamp (all worked fine as a headphone amp until I tried adding:) - XLR connection to - Topping LA90 D amp. Amp switches are set to bypass, stereo, low gain. In this configuration, I am not getting any music to either my SE or XLR headphone jacks. I made sure I switched the A9D to "preamp" and "xlr" modes. I have no idea what I might be overlooking or missing...any thoughts would be deeply appreciated! Thank you.
Nov 11, 2024
Tremuh
Trying to find new headset
I currently am rocking the beyerdynamic DT 990 Pros and have been for a while now, along with a go xlr! I was trying to see what other headset you guys recommend along with something to replace the xlr? Thank you!
Nov 7, 2024
aiden.miller
Mic not working pc38x
I just got my pc38x in the mail today and the out put is quiet but fine and I'm happy. But the mic will not work when on my Xbox series and I was wondering if this issue can be resolved or if the head set is not compatible with Xbox.
Nov 4, 2024
Drop Refurbished
Like-new products you can trustDrop Rewards
Get $5 for every 500 points you earn! Learn more
Drop Keyboard Club
Become a member and expand your keycap collectionFollow Drop