Xonar Essence STX vs DAC?

[Artex]

Hey guys,

I'm looking for some advice. I currently have an Asus Xonar Essence STX (Gen 1) in my box, outputting to a Corsair SP2500 set of 2.1 speakers+sub. The sound is decent, but I know this setup is aging and I'm wondering if there are better options for speakers + external DACs that would surpass the quality of this. I have not swapped out the OpAmps at this point. Can anyone shoot me some opinions?

 

[HammerSandwich]

I wouldn't worry about the STX unless it has an obvious problem with hum or noise. Speakers are absolutely the weak link.

 

[Artex]

I wouldn't worry about the STX unless it has an obvious problem with hum or noise. Speakers are absolutely the weak link.

Wondering if those SP2500s are holding me back.

 

[Stanley Pain]

The STX is a damn good headphone AMP. To give it some more teeth look into replacing the OPAMPS. My top choices would be TI LME49990s (analytical/neutral/basically no coloration of sound) or MUSES("warmer" coloration). They can and will dramatically change the sound. Can't really comment on those speakers though. "PC" speakers tend to get lumped into the "crap" category for me

 

[Mad Maxx]

External DAC + 2.1 will crush your current audio setup, but the first question to that end always will be...

What's your budget?