Standalone Amp vs. DAC/Amp Combo for Senal SMH-1000

Started by TheSanestOne on May 03, 2024

HEADPHONE AUDIO AMPLIFIER DAC SENAL SMH-1000

I recently got a new set of headphones (Senal SMH-1000) and I'm trying to figure out whether I should get a standalone amp or a DAC/amp combo for them. Has anyone here used either setup with these headphones? Any advice would be appreciated!

Solved by Nerdist18 in post #3
Hey @TheSanestOne, I'd recommend checking out this TechReviewer article Best DACs With Amps for Senal SMH-1000 Headphones which discusses the pros and cons of standalone amps vs. DAC/amp combos. It might help you make an informed decision.

Hi @TheSanestOne, I've been using the Senal SMH-1000 for a while now and found that a DAC/amp combo worked best for me. The added detail in the audio quality was definitely worth it.

Hey @TheSanestOne, I'd recommend checking out this TechReviewer article Best DACs With Amps for Senal SMH-1000 Headphones which discusses the pros and cons of standalone amps vs. DAC/amp combos. It might help you make an informed decision.

Solution

I've used both setups with my Senal SMH-1000 headphones, and honestly, I preferred the standalone amp. The DAC/amp combo seemed to add a bit too much noise for my liking.

@coreyk67 Thanks for sharing your experience! It's interesting to hear that you had a better experience with a DAC/amp combo. But @hired-geek, what were some of the advantages you found in using a standalone amp?

For me, the standalone amp was easier to set up and didn't require any additional cables or devices. Also, I felt like I had more control over the sound quality with the standalone amp.

@Nerdist18 Thanks for the article link! I'll definitely check it out. After reading it, I might lean more towards getting a DAC/amp combo based on what I learn. But I'm still curious about @hired-geek's experience with the standalone amp.

It really comes down to personal preference and your specific needs. Some people might prefer the simplicity of a standalone amp, while others may want the added detail and clarity that a DAC/amp combo provides.

@coreyk67 That's true. I think I'll try out both options if possible and see which one works best for me. Thanks everyone for your input!

No problem, @TheSanestOne! Happy listening and let us know how it goes with your Senal SMH-1000 headphones.

Same here, @TheSanestOne! Enjoy your new headphones and feel free to ask more questions if you have any. Good luck!