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Can I use the dragonfly as a dac only and the magni 3 as an amp?

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I just bought the Magni 3, but I already had the Dragonfly Black to use with my mobile phone. I was wondering if to use it with the PC I can use the DF as a dac only connected to the Magni, or I would give problems that double amplification. Or if it would be influenced by the quality of the sound?
(Edited)
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VRacer111
492
Mar 25, 2019
Yes, they work fine as a preamp DAC. Just put the Dragonfly volume to 100% along with music application volume most of the way up and use the Magni 3 to control actual headphone volume level. Just make sure to not plug the dragonfly directly into the computer USB port - use a short USB extension cable like this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002KNI796/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 It's how I use my DFR most of the time for my work setup...
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Also works well for getting better audio out of your vehicle using the vehicle's auxilary input and a 3.5mm connection cable to connect to Phone/Tablet and Dragonfly combo. Will say the DFR sounds better than the DFB for this type of use though - cleaner, more detailed, vibrant sound which has more punch and subbass compared to the Black. The Black is warmer, looser, and softer in it's delivery.
(Edited)
haroldzapatah
1
Mar 26, 2019
VRacer111thanks man, but why do I have to use usb extender for the DF?
VRacer111
492
Mar 26, 2019
haroldzapatahFor PC you might be able to get away with plugging it straight in to the USB, just support/strain relief the cable to the Dragonfly. Safety precaution to keep from damaging USB port/Dragonfly. Would never use Dragonfly on a laptop without an extension cable.
Akubunak
10
Mar 24, 2019
Yes, I used the DF Black as a DAC for almost 2 years paired with the Magni 2U. Its a pretty good combo, satisfied all of my needs until I felt like I wanted to try Balanced on my HD800s. Its usually the starting combo I recommend to all of my friends wanting to dip their toes into the audio world
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