A/V Best external sound solution.

Discussion in 'Hardware' started by Lankius Maximus, 13 Oct 2015.

  1. Lankius Maximus

    Lankius Maximus Minimodder

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    Over the next couple of months (ie Christmas) I am looking to upgrade the speaker/ external soundcard set up I currently have.

    I currently use a Creative Sound Blaster Recon 3D external soundcard (plus the wireless headphone that come with it) plus some Creative T20 speakers.

    I have had some issues with the sound card playing up (ie not connecting) on regular occasions and so I am looking to upgrade both the card and the speakers. I do not intend binning the card as it works brilliantly with my PS4 in the living room an will be retired to that.

    I have no real audio experience however my TV set up is made up of Cambridge Audio Minx 21s and subwoofer and I have been really impressed. With this in mind I have been looking at the Cambridge Audio Dac magic 100 or Dac Magic plus as a starting point. However, I have since found out about the Cambridge Audio 1.

    http://www.richersounds.com/package/system-savers/mini-hi-fi-system-deals/pah011944

    My understanding is that this has a built in DAC and USB connection to input from a PC. The price also includes the Minx XL speakers for free in the bundle (should be £200). While I have no real need for a hifi system in the room my PC is in it would probably be used in the long term.

    Would this make a suitable external sound setup for a PC or would I be better going for a standalone DAC and seperate speakers? I remember a Custom PC article specifically mentioning and praising the Dac Magic 100 a while ago so I am hoping someone can give me a steer in the right direction.

    Any ideas would be great!

    Cheers!
     
  2. Vault-Tec

    Vault-Tec Green Plastic Watering Can

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    I decided recently to get a USB DAC. I got this one.

    http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Aune-T1-M...adphone-AMP-/321680461793?hash=item4ae5a64fe1

    I agree with what's been said above, only get one if you are a purist and or wear headphones a lot. The only issue I had with mine was that in gaming some games would not recognise the DAC so I got no sound unless I switched back to my sound card. In the end I decided to keep my sound card (I have a Recon3D onboard) and just run it LINE. I did have to fit a splitter to be able to use my speakers though..
     
  3. MeddlE

    MeddlE Norwegian Blue

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