Which soundcard with balanced outs has the best SQ and is less than $250?

[MikeHunt79]

So far I've narrowed it down to the E-mu 1212m, the E-mu 0404 USB, and the M-audio delta audiophile 192...

All of these have balanced outs and seemingly good DAC's, and cost around the same amount. Does anyone know which would give the best sound quality, or are they pretty closely matched...

FWIW, my system isn't mega-high end:

Soundcard > balanced headphone amp > Re-terminated HD-600's

but I'm looking for an improvement over my current (aging) M-audio delta 44. 🙂

 

[ak_47_boy]

I think you might be better off with a digital coaxial audio output to a DAC.

 

[MikeHunt79]

I think you might be better off with a digital coaxial audio output to a DAC.

I've had a look, but I cannot find any DAC's which are under $250 and have a balanced output? Unless there is a DIY route I'm not aware of?

 

[jcx]

esi juli@ is very competitive at ~US$130

 

[protos]

I've had a look, but I cannot find any DAC's which are under $250 and have a balanced output? Unless there is a DIY route I'm not aware of?

I think twisted pear have what you want --balanced diy dac .A bit on the expensive side but interesting.

 

[protos]

There you go.Actually not so expensive if you factor in all the modules.You just need a case.
The best bang for the buck USB-DAC-Headamp-headphones.
http://www.twistedpearaudio.com/opus/opus.aspx

 

[ssmith]

I'd go for the 0404USB -- lots of modding potential too.

The Twisted Pear Opus looks like an excellent choice, though all the modules+transformer+case+connectors would probably push it over budget.

 

[MikeHunt79]

Wow, the Twisted Pair kit looks very good... I've bookmarked their site. 🙂

I managed to pick up a 2nd hand 1212m in the end, as I managed to get one at a good price (£73). 🙂