Transparent DAC Synergy with Auditor?

Discussion in 'Digital: DACs, USB converters, decrapifiers' started by Story, Jun 24, 2017.

  1. Story

    Story New

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    I have a pair of hd800 and an SPL Auditor currently being shipped to me. However, I can't conceivably spend much more on a DAC.

    Is there a suitable DAC for this set up <$300? I am aiming for transparency, the purpose of the set up is for studio monitoring, mixing, mastering.

    I don't know where else to turn; the searches I've conducted have led to threads wherein individuals are suggesting considerably more expensive DACs tandem the auditor.

    Thank you
     
  2. purr1n

    purr1n Desire for betterer is endless.

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    I assume that you would want a transparent DAC no?

    Normally for such a setup, I would recommend Modi Multibit, but Modi Multibit / Modi Multibit, is not one I would consider the most transparent at its price point. The Modi Multibit does sound great, but it is very slightly veiled and has a dark tonality. This combination actually works great with the SPL Auditor and HD800 combination. However for mixing or mastering work, I would probably just pick up a Modi 2 Uber for $120. Some people bitch that the newer AKM 4490 in the new Modi 2 Ubers, despite better air and microdetail, sounds a bit off (i.e.., velvety bass, slightly recessed mids, or whatever), but really these comments are an exaggeration, or based on use with certain downstream amps. The Modi 2 Uber is certainly much more suitable for the job compared to many other DACs in that price range. Another option might be the latest revision of the ODAC, but since it is USB powered, I would a recommend a separate +5V into a USB-Y cable. The electrical current capacity of USB ports on computers may not be up to snuff, especially if you've got other USB stuff plugged in.

    The thing I am trying to wrap myself around is why HD800 for mastering? Do you plan on EQ'ing your HD800s? Otherwise your final product may sound too rolled off if used on almost any other headphone than the HD800.

    Oh yeah, might want to introduce yourself and read the new members post. It's somewhere on this site.
     
    Last edited: Jun 24, 2017
  3. Story

    Story New

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    Thank you. Great reply.
    Really? Too rolled off? Eek. Would that be due to the infamous 6k peak treble of the 800/general brightness?

    In any event, I plan to use Sonarworks EQ. I thought, with Sonarworks, that they would be effective for mixing and mastering purposes. I got a pair used for $700

    What would you substitute for best mixing and mastering hp?
     
  4. Serious

    Serious Inquisitive Frequency Response Plot

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    The HD600 or really any speakers that aren't shit probably work better for getting the tonal balance right. The HD800 will show you deficiencies in the recording and playback chain more clearly, but the tonal balance is off. Sonarworks or mods help, but you still need a neutral reference I feel.
     
  5. landroni

    landroni Friend

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  6. Story

    Story New

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    Thanks for replies.
    I am confined to the usage of HP, due to external factors.

    I'll likely pick up a modi2 or modi2u and see how the 800s perform with Sonarworks + Auditor (I could always return them and opt for the 6xx)

    I thought that the hd800 were justifiably superior in many regards, enough so to warrant the investment; we'll see.
     

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