THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (2024)

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings.

Aug 28, 2024 at 9:11 PMPost #2,926 of 2,970

goldwerger

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Just discovered this album. Some beautiful moments to be found in this well-recorded unique acoustic trio (guitar, violin, bass; and occasional vocal):

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (11)

Last edited:

Aug 28, 2024 at 9:14 PMPost #2,927 of 2,970

RTodd

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Here is a nice one a friend told me about today,
1974 I was ten, and never knew about this.
It sounds the time, and is a nice listen, newly remastered.

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (17)

Aug 28, 2024 at 10:25 PMPost #2,928 of 2,970

iamoneagain

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My favorite chair is this Eames knockoff from the 70’s my dad gave me. However it’s usually occupied.

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (19)

Aug 28, 2024 at 11:23 PMPost #2,929 of 2,970

michael2v

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unfitstew said:

I have a stealcase leap! I got a used one for like $250. Such a nice chair.

I've never tried the Leap, but have a Gesture at the "home office." In my two-plus decades of office work, it's hands-down the most comfortable chair I've ever used.

Two thumbs up! Er, buns down. THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (21)

Aug 28, 2024 at 11:38 PMPost #2,930 of 2,970

AudioDuck

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iamoneagain said:

My favorite chair is this Eames knockoff from the 70’s my dad gave me. However it’s usually occupied.

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (24)

Well, at least your behind will stay warm after you sit down.

At least, once the scratches stop hurting.

(No, seriously, I’m an animal lover, but that is a VERY fluffy, warm-looking coat!)

Aug 28, 2024 at 11:52 PMPost #2,931 of 2,970

AudioDuck

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Monsterzero said:

What is everyone using for a listening chair? I'm heading out this weekend in hopes of picking up something comfortable for extended (4+ hour) sessions.
I've been reading about Ekornes and Herman Miller chairs ($$$), but I'm wondering if there's anything out there that's currently flying under the radar that i should be on the lookout for.

Sorry to answer “Ekornes Stressless”, but I bought their Wing model about a year and a half ago and LOVE it. I tried a few other Stressless models in the store, and this was by far the most comfortable one for me. Oddly enough, the large size fit my back and neck best (I’m 5’6”/165 cm, but have a long torso)…

Expensive? Yes. Will I have it until I go to the big headphone demo room in the sky? Absolutely.

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (27)

Aug 29, 2024 at 12:11 AMPost #2,932 of 2,970

DenverW

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iamoneagain said:

My favorite chair is this Eames knockoff from the 70’s my dad gave me. However it’s usually occupied.

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (33)

Nice view of downtown THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (34)

Aug 29, 2024 at 1:16 AMPost #2,933 of 2,970

cwoo

100+ Head-Fier

goldwerger said:

It's not really an answer to your question, but it urged me to share my current chair. It's a faux leather chair I bought some 8 years ago (about $300 or so if I recall) that has since been discontinued. It is so comfortable, I've resisted replacing it. It has since developed cracks left and right. My wife used to urge me to replace it, but has given up.. It has become my Archie Bunker chair. The tears conform so well my butt, which makes me value function over form at the moment THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (36) That said, I suspect I will have to find a replacement sometime in the near future, so I'm keen to see the replies to this question as well..

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (37)

This chair was the inspiration for the Susvara Unveiled Leatherette.

Aug 29, 2024 at 1:21 AMPost #2,934 of 2,970

cwoo

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I use a Herman Miller Eames "Homage" chair from Sonne for speaker/headphone listening. It is a fraction of the price, amazing quality, and the closest I have found to an actual Eames.

For headphone listening at my desk, I have a real Herman Miller Aeron chair since I use it for work as well.

Aug 29, 2024 at 5:39 AMPost #2,935 of 2,970

WDitters

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AudioDuck said:

Sorry to answer “Ekornes Stressless”, but I bought their Wing model about a year and a half ago and LOVE it. I tried a few other Stressless models in the store, and this was by far the most comfortable one for me. Oddly enough, the large size fit my back and neck best (I’m 5’6”/165 cm, but have a long torso)…

Expensive? Yes. Will I have it until I go to the big headphone demo room in the sky? Absolutely.

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (41)

Are those speakers Usher Mini Dancers?

Aug 29, 2024 at 10:21 AMPost #2,936 of 2,970

goldwerger

Founder of the WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION threadWatercooler Travel Team
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cwoo said:

This chair was the inspiration for the Susvara Unveiled Leatherette.

Good one.. THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (52)

Aug 29, 2024 at 11:10 AMPost #2,937 of 2,970

iamoneagain

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AudioDuck said:

Well, at least your behind will stay warm after you sit down.

At least, once the scratches stop hurting.

(No, seriously, I’m an animal lover, but that is a VERY fluffy, warm-looking coat!)

He’s the sweetest Maine Coon. My son does almost sit on him and he just lets him do it.

Also, yes, the view of Downtown San Diego. We have since moved to another unit in the condo and now have a view of Balboa Park.

THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (54)

Aug 29, 2024 at 11:58 AMPost #2,938 of 2,970

Exekuhtor

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Can you please stop posting pictures of that gorgeous floof, it's impossible to not like your post, it's basically a cheating method to farm free likes!

Aug 29, 2024 at 12:00 PMPost #2,939 of 2,970

Aetherhole

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Exekuhtor said:

Can you please stop posting pictures of that gorgeous floof, it's impossible to not like your post, it's basically a cheating method to farm free likes!

We can all use more happiness in our lives, so I beg to differ!! Post more @iamoneagain !! lol

Aug 29, 2024 at 12:06 PMPost #2,940 of 2,970

Exekuhtor

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Aetherhole said:

We can all use more happiness in our lives, so I beg to differ!! Post more @iamoneagain !! lol

You know i was being sarcastic, right?

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THE WATERCOOLER HEADPHONE EDITION – Headphones, Amps, DACs, and desktop/home audio related – a freewheeling discussion of gear, impressions, music, and musings. (2024)

FAQs

Does a DAC amp make headphones sound better? ›

While some DACs deliver a very neutral profile, others can enhance or reduce certain sound qualities of your headphones or speakers. For example, some DACs create a smoother sound, while others can boost the bass or brighten the higher frequencies.

Do I need both DAC and amp for headphones? ›

It depends on your audio setup. If you have high-quality headphones or speakers but are using a low-quality audio output, a DAC may improve sound quality. However, if you're using high-impedance headphones or driving large speakers, you may also need an amp to power them.

What does a DAC amp do for headphones? ›

A DAC (digital-to-analog converter) is a device that enhances the quality of audio for headphones and speakers by converting it into an analog signal. The superior quality of the analog signal significantly improves audio playback, particularly for music and movies.

How do you use DAC with headphones? ›

In most cases, you can not connect a headphone directly into a DAC. Thus, a headphone amp must serve as the intermediary step between a DAC and your headphones. The most popular DAC connection method is via USB from a computer.

Do high end DACs sound better? ›

Differences aren't only in the sonic department though. A well engineered DAC isnt't cheap to make as it takes a skilled team of electrical engineers to get it right. More money usually buys you better engineering and those incremental upgrades result in a DAC that is audibly better.

Is DAC worth it? ›

The DAC is a necessary ingredient for any audiophile sound system recipe. It's one of those components that you can't do without if you're trying to listen to digital music.

Are headphone amps worth it? ›

The size and dimensions of your headphone may provide some basic clues as to whether an amp is warranted. Most earbud and in ear headphones are typically very efficient and less likely to benefit strongly from an amp. However, many larger over ear headphones will become clearer and better sounding with an amp.

What exactly does a DAC do? ›

A DAC, or digital to analogue converter, is the device that translates digitally stored information from a laptop, iPod or other such device into the analogue sound that we can hear. Why does a signal need to be converted at all?

What is the point of a headphone amp? ›

Given the fact that most (there are exceptions) headphones deliver you sound without a headamp, you may still be wondering why you'd want one. The purpose of a headphone amp is to improve the sound, add volume control options, and to allow you to enjoy more nuance and detail.

Can I connect a DAC to a TV? ›

Connecting to Your Big Screen

Want to use one of our DACs with your TV? No problem. Most TVs have optical outputs, and can be used with any of our standalone DACs, from Modi on up. Via Optical: All you need is an optical cable, and the proper setting on your TV.

Can a headphone DAC be used for speakers? ›

Headphone amplifiers cannot power speakers.

How to convert digital audio to analog? ›

That's where a Digital to Analog Converter, also known as DAC, comes in. Audio digital analog converters are a hand-sized tool you can use, or even keep in your pocket or bag, whenever you need to connect your digital devices to analog speakers.

Will a DAC make my headphones louder? ›

Using an amplifier or DAC can be a more advanced way to make your headphones louder, and it may require some additional equipment and setup, though it can be worth the effort.

Is a DAC necessary for headphones? ›

A DAC converts the digital data stream into an analog signal. Your headphones are an analog device, so they require an analog signal. The amplifier(AMP) amplifies the analog signal to an appropriate required level. If your device has an analog headphone output, you don't need a DAC.

Does an amp make a difference for headphones? ›

Sound Quality: If you're using lower-quality headphones or are unhappy with your music's sound quality, a headphone amp can help improve that. Amps can make your music sound fuller and richer and help reduce any crackling or static noise.

How much does DAC improve sound quality? ›

How Does a DAC Impact Sound Quality? Signal Clarity: DACs ensure that the conversion from digital to analogue preserves the audio's integrity, leading to clearer sound. Noise Reduction: High-quality DACs can reduce unwanted noise and distortion, offering a purer audio experience.

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