Trying to get a feel on how to up my computer audio. I've usually used low/medium end sound cards with fair success. It seems medium end computer speakers are more limited by the sound card than anything most often, but i need to completely redo my setup, including some legit headphones with a microphone attached. I'm inclined to lean towards the USB dac route but was looking to see if anyone had experience.
Well, that is a huge topic. Generally USB audio devices made for musicians are what I recommend. Focusrite 2i2 or if you want something really nice a Neve 88M. You pay for nice microphone inputs, too, but that isn't quite avoidable if you are going for professional (not HiFi) equipment. You can use it for a nice microphone.
Which brings me to your other purchase, the headphones. Unfortunately there are close to no headphones with really good sound that have a microphone. Maybe the Audeze gaming headset, but I didn't hear it yet. Sound-wise it would be better to have separate headphones and mic.