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Low Cost DACs

Currently I have my laptop connected directly via 1/8 jack from headphone outlet into 2 RCAs directly into my tube amp. Quality of sound is lacking to say the least!
I am considering adding an inexpensive DAC ( iFi AUDIO nano iDSD LE Portable DAC  or iFi Audio nano iOne DAC ) into the stream between the laptop & amp.My question is: will this influence the overall sound I'll hear out of my speakers? Will adding such a DAC help to increase the quality of sound produced by the system?
I'm not interested in spending a lot of money on a DAC as this is a source that I don't use as much as some others already in the system.
wcc10
213runnin
914 posts
 
I usually have my Modi 3 in a stack with the Vali 2 on top.  It's not a lot of weight, so I can't really say if it's been a help.  What I do know is that any dac I've got sound mediore when plugged into my avr.  They are sound much better with the Vali 2 and my Grados.

I think it's because the AVR has too many compromises to the audio quality, and perhaps the preamp circuitry was one of the compromises.  I run the AVR in direct mode, which apparently doesn't process the signal in any way.  It doesn't even extract anything to feed the subwoofer.  

The dacs also sound much better in the 2 channel rig with a proper pre.
wcc10 OP
119 posts
 
Currently mu Modi3 is direct RCA connected to PrimaLuna Integrate. It's sounds okay but I'm wondering is a different Lap Top to Modi3 cable might help. using the stock cable. .
stevewisc
27 posts
 
I was using a generic 6 foot 3.5/RCA to my Vali. I went with an 8 ft. Blue Jeans Cables BJC MSA-1 Audio Cable. It has made a noticeable difference. 

Would a more expensive cable have made a bigger difference? I doubt enough to justify the price.
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