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- PC & Laptop motherboards are only designed to function so you get distortion and hiss, which DAC/AMP eliminate.
- They unlock the potential of your high-end microphone and headset, which otherwise would feel flat or underpowered.
- Once you buy them, you rarely need to upgrade them for even a decade, so you can instead upgrade your headsets or microphone.
When you think about a DAC/AMP setup, you might think about audiophiles such as musicians and people who do voice-overs. However, it isn’t limited only to them anymore because it is a basic requirement if you want to reach the full potential of your sound inputs.
Why Do You Need A DAC/AMP?
Most people invest in a high-end headphone and they’re pumped to hook it onto their computer and when they do, they’re left with disappointment. What they don’t realize is that the problem isn’t with their new headphone, it is with their computer.
Motherboards Aren’t Designed For Sound Quality
See, computer motherboards have built-in sound cards that aren’t created to provide the highest quality audio output; they’re only designed to give you audio that functions.
Even the higher-end motherboards and gaming laptops lack this feature. But why does it happen in the first place? You see, your motherboards has tons of components attached to it, all of which generate electrical noise.
When you use a 3.5mm headphone jack, this noise leaks into the audio signal path. This is why you’re wondering why you hear some form of hiss or distortion, even if it’s very slight.
But, How Do They Work?
This is where a DAC & AMP setup comes in. Simply put, a DAC (Digital to Analogue Converter) converts the digital signals from your PC into analogue audio. While a standard DAC won’t be of much use when paired with an AMP (Amplifier), you get to experience the full quality of your audio device.
Most of these come with adjustable knobs and switches, allowing you to control the volume and gain levels. They are very convenient because they also allow you to simultaneously connect multiple devices, such as your console, PC, and phone.
Switching between devices is very easy, and you don’t have to remove the cables from one device and plug them into a different device, since everything can be controlled via one hub.
Full Power = Full Potential
These also support the full 48V of current, also known as Phantom Power, which your computer or laptop’s motherboard can simply not provide, and the audio ends up feeling flat and lacking bass.
Many popular headsets don’t reach their full potential if they aren’t properly powered. This is why some headsets, such as the ASTRO A40 TR and the Steel Series, come with their own Amplifier.
Advantageous In Gaming
In gaming, the difference between using headphones with and without a DAC and AMP setup is like night and day. With this combo, you get a sense of realism and precision because the sound is clearer.
This means that you get better positional accuracy and catch sounds such as the enemies’ footsteps and direction from where the shots have been fired more accurately because the sound spectrum doesn’t get lost in the mud. Even if you’re using In-Ear Monitors (IEMs), it is recommended that you use them through a DAC/AMP setup so you get the most out of them.
Best For Immersion
Videos and other media sounds also become more immersive, and you can now hear the dialogues with clear articulation. This combo allows separation and depth where the background sound won’t overshadow the vocals.
Must For Mics Too
Apart from being a must for headphones, DACs and AMPs are also much needed for microphones. While USB can operate many mics, you’d be surprised to see how big of a difference it makes when you plug them through this combo using an XLR cable.
The difference is just as apparent as it is for headsets, where the mic picks up your voice more clearly and at a further distance because it is powered correctly, thanks to this DAC & AMP combo.
It also unlocks a microphone’s true potential, especially a condenser mic like the Syntech RGB GlowMic. Unlike a dynamic mic, a condenser mic needs phantom power, which an AMP provides. Moreover, it also eliminates the background hiss and distortion that is a big issue with mics powered by a motherboard.
One Time Purchase Could Last A Lifetime
The best part about a DAC/AMP combo is that they almost last forever. Other components like your mouse, CPU, GPU might need an upgrade over the years, but a DAC & AMP rarely needs an upgrade.
If you invest in a good combo, it’ll be just as efficient for a decade or even more because its technology doesn’t advance much if you’re considering using it for casual use. You can later upgrade your microphone and headsets as much as you want.
Verdict
Using a DAC & AMP combo is something that you shouldn’t neglect. It is essential, especially if you’re considering buying a high-end microphone or headset. Even if you don’t have the budget for it, there are many budget options that you can opt for and then later upgrade if you want to.
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[Comparisons Expert]
Shehryar Khan, a seasoned PC hardware expert, brings over three years of extensive experience and a deep passion for the world of technology. With a love for building PCs and a genuine enthusiasm for exploring the latest advancements in components, his expertise shines through his work and dedication towards this field. Currently, Shehryar is rocking a custom loop setup for his built.
Get In Touch: shehryar@tech4gamers.com
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