Do I need a DAC?

[Robert Schmicker]

I am currently looking to buy the Audio Technica ATH-M50S for my massive music collection. I was wondering if it is worth it for me to spend the extra money and buy a DAC as well. I currently use my on-board DAC on my AS Rock extreme 4 z77 which has a Real-tech 898 codec on it. I also time to time use the DAC on my AV receiver, but the receiver is almost 13 to 14 years old. Would I be fine using either one of the DAC's I have? or is it worth it to buy a new DAC? if so any recommendations to go with this pair of headphones? preferably under $100USD. Thank you to all in advance.

 

[batuchka]

Hmm need more details? Are u running speakers as well with that old receiver or just cans off it? When u say using the DAC on the AVR : did u hook it up via coax/optical?

 

[Robert Schmicker]

Hmm need more details? Are u running speakers as well with that old receiver or just cans off it? When u say using the DAC on the AVR : did u hook it up via coax/optical?

I currently have 5.1 stereo speakers hooked up to the av receiver and secondly my motherboard supports an optical out port on the back so that's how I have my computer and av receiver connected.