Reddit mentions of Creative Sound Blaster E1 Portable Headphone Amplifier with Integrated Mic and Dual Headphone Jacks for PC and Smartphones

I'd suggest you try to circumvent your motherboard. Sounds like your onboard codec is picking up interference. A soundcard would fix the problem, but usually a Soundblaster is all you need.

Might be a grounding issue. Make sure all the cables are all the way in and in the right spots. Also make sure you're using the cable that splits the mic and headphones since iirc they come with both a mobile and pc cable. I doubt that it's an issue with your mobo powering the headphones, but a solution to both the grounding issue and powering would be either the Creative Sound Blaster E1 or the Syba Sonic DAC/AMP. Both of these should be more than enough to power Game Ones and they both come with separate jacks for the audio and mic which would solve grounding problems.

It's simply not meant for this, and pro audio uses entirely different formats. You need some kind of semi-pro, telecom, amplifier/splitter box for headphone/mic combos.

I'll bet they exist so that call center trainees and trainers can take calls together. Check http://www.fullcompass.com/

Also, this looks like a possibiity: https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0

My current set-up, though not always the most straight-forward is by far the most versatile and best price-quality ratio I could find!

• The Sony H.ear on 2 Bluetooth headphones can be found at crazy price/quality ratios online (around $110 if you look around well). They are quite fantastic sounding, light and robust with pretty good noise canceling.
  
• Slap an Anthlion ModMic 5 onto the mix for some astounding voice quality at a great price and portability. Seriously, this thing can sound like a studio microphone with a decent set-up.
  
• Add a Soundblaster E1 portable sound card/DAC, if like me, and most people unfortunately, your desktop/laptop's integrated soundcards are not great. This might not be necessary, but essentially will turn the microphone from a decent one with low-ish volume into an absolute breast.
  
  The whole setup will cost under $250 for some really awesome quality, both listening and recording.

I don't think you can use the E10K with a phone. It uses USB on a PC, for example, and takes the place of a sound card. (As I understand it and use it anyway).

I have one of these I that I like: FiiO A1 Well I have the older version. This one is probably better.

I also have one of these that is decent. Soundblaster E1

I want one of these. Little Bear B4 portable tube amp.

For a little more on the FiiO portable side. FiiO A5

edit: added a link

FiiO K1 would be fine for sound output to the headphones, but with the HyperX Cloud II you'd still be plugging the microphone part of the headset directly into the laptop. Looks like the Beats Audio version of the HP Envy 15 has only one audio port, meaning it's probably a TRRS headset port, which probably would work just fine with the Cloud without the K1.

If it ends up not being fine, the K1 would fix the headphone portion but may give you problems with the Mic portion of the headset. If that is the case, the Creative Sound Blaster E1 may solve your problem, and you can get one used from Amazon Warehouse for ~$43.

First off, GREAT choice in headphones.

I have the same Audio Technicas and the sound quality is beyond phenomenal. What I use is a cheap Sound Blaster in line USB rechargeable preamp. It plugs into the PS4's headphone jack and it provides a mild volume boost, a decent microphone, and a headphone splitter.

Here's the model that I use: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00J2JATL0/ref=mp_s_a_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1498110607&sr=8-18&pi=SL75_QL70&keywords=headphone+preamp#featureBulletsAndDetailBullets_secondary_view_div_1498110750937

I hope that this helps.

I suggest trying first, and if you hear static interference or whatnot, then a usb splitter will work. Although depending on your headphones I might just pony up a bit more for a sound card instead.

The link showed a few different options. Is it this? https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499034372&sr=8-1&keywords=sound+blaster+portable

I have a set of those cables for my momentum 2.0s def recommend the cable as well. the 598s I'm fine with the rubber since I just use em for in home use. Are you using a dac/amp by any chance, Ive been using the Creative E1 for both pc and portable but been looking at upgrades. The e1 has been great for mobile but it hasn't been playing nice with my pc lately.

Creative Sound Blaster E1 Portable Headphone Amplifier with Integrated Mic and Dual Headphone Jacks for PC and Smartphones https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J2JATL0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1Hq9BbT78D9PF

Found this one on sale

I use one of these.

Works out of the box in windows, osx, and linux. No config needed. You can plug the usb in and it'll show up as a sound card, or you can use it as an inline amp with other 3.5 mm stuff.

• Headphones:
  
• Sennheiser HD598 | Frequency Graph
  
• Sennheiser HD558 | Frequency Graph
  
• Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 Ohms | Frequency Graph
  
• DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter)/Amplifier Combo:
  
• FiiO E10K
  
• Creative Sound Blaster E3
  
• Amplifier only:
  
• FiiO E6
  
• Creative Sound Blaster E1
  
  The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pros have great bass response, while the Sennheiser HD598's aren't as punchy in the bass. That being said, the DT770's present a bit more in the high-end frequencies, and some might find that unbalanced.
  
  The HD598's are certainly more balanced in their presentation. The HD558's are the cheapest option, but present great value for somebody looking for a bit more bass than the HD598's, but less than the DT770's.
  
  Any of these headphones paired with a proper headphone amplifier will provide a good listening experience, but different. While both Sennheiser's are open-back and will breath more to provide a wider sound stage, the Beyerdynamics are closed back and will provide a more narrow sound stage, but provide more bass response.

Since you are going to use them mainly for gaming then I'd recommend This headset which is $100.

Now for better quality and sound level then you may want to look into headphone amplifiers. I had the E1 Creative Sound which is pretty much the lowest option but it still works wonders so I'd recommend it any way.

Now you already have a headset, maybe all you need is to boost the sound. So I'd recommend getting an amp and try your headset with it first and if you're still not happy then you can go for the new headset as well.

What I did is I disabled all the playback options except my DAC and my speakers, then I have my DAC (SoundBlaster E1 $30 when on sale at Fry's, great sound for the price) set as my default playback device. Whenever I flip the switch on the DAC off, it goes to the only other playback option, my speakers. Takes about half a second to go back and forth and it is super easy, plus the DAC really improved the sound quality I was getting. Any DAC with an on/off switch works with this method, and if you have one you really like without an on/off switch, you are only slightly inconvenienced in that you just pull out the mini usb plug on the back whenever you want to switch to speakers. I also like having a physical button rather than a software button on my computer because this way I can make absolutely certain with 100% reliability that the sound I want is coming from where I want it without having to double check that the software is working.

Ah okay, so I assume something like this then?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J2JATL0?keywords=soundblaster%20e1&qid=1450319936&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1

Figure that'd be better, or the Creative one since I can raise the volume beyond just the PC settings.

I was hoping for something that used the lightening port, as my iphone doesn't have a headphone jack. i picked up one of these as I wanted the amplifier feature also:

Creative Sound Blaster E1 Portable Headphone Amplifier with Integrated Mic and Dual Headphone Jacks for PC and Smartphones - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J2JATL0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That's probably just the built-in audio from your mobo, pretty sure a DAC will get rid of that crackling sound.

I use this, it's fairly cheap and works great. https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0

I've got a Brand NEW, without box, Creative Sound Blaster E1 Portable Headphone Amplifier for only $30 shipped Link. Condition is a perfect 10/10 with the protective clear plastic still on the rear clip. It's really small, charges it's internal battery via microUSB and sounds great! It is NOT refurbished! Also comes with a microUSB and 3.5mm audio cable.

Location - United States

Budget - $130 - $300 [USD]

Source - Future Built Desktop / Google Pixel / 2017 Dell Latitude 7000 2-in-1 13.3"

Requirements for Isolation - Not really a requirement, I don't think its possible for headphones to leak loud enough for neighbors to hear in an apartment complex. The majority of use, if not all to begin with, will be at my apartment.

Will you be using these Headphones in Public? No, not looking for a portable AMP/DAC

Preferred Type of Headphone - Over Ear / Open Back (would consider closed)

Preferred tonal balance - I definitely like bass, but feel I can get my fill of it in my car. I'm not an experienced audiophile so i'm not sure what I like, see below.

Past headphones - Had ATH-M50X coupled with this used off of a Samsung Galaxy Note 4 and a Desktop PC primarily. Currently have Jaybird X3's.

Preferred Music - I listen to every genre, but if I had to quantify: 30% Hip Hop, 15% Rock, 20% EDM/Dubstep/Chillstep, 15% Country, 15% Metal/Screamo, 5% Jazz. I'm open to experiencing all that a high end pair of headphones can offer and will likely listen to stuff off /r/audiophilemusic a lot.
These will also be mainly used for gaming so I would like to think a wide and accurate sound stage is the most critical aspect?

What would you like to improve on from your set-up - To experience the next level or at least very close to the ATH-M50X. That's why my budget has a lower end, it'd be nice to save money and spend under $200 if there was something that could blow the M50X out of the water.

I plan to pair with the Schiit Magni 3 and Schiit Modi 2. Open to something else that may pair better with whatever you may suggest, but that indicates my AMP/DAC budget.
Would this be all I needed for a decent setup to start or do I have to buy additional cables or upgraded cables??

As for current ideas, I was looking to stretch for the Sennheiser HD600's, but the 20 yr age of the design is off-putting to me for some reason.
In addition to those:

• AKG 6XX - 7XX
  
• Sennheiser HD598/599
  
• Beyerdynamic DT990
  
• Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H6
  
• Any comparable Audio Technica

If you want the best sound then it can't be wireless.

DT990,HD598, K612, AD900x, T50RP.

For the mic there is the popular modmic, for the electronics there is the E10k or the E1.

Get a Soundblaster E1 or an ASUS Xonar U3

Or if your motherboard and case allows, get an ASUS Xonar DG

[Help] X-post /r/WATMM


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What headphone amp should I get for ~$100 for my 250Ohm DT770 Pro headphones?

I bought this a few months ago trying to be frugal but, unless I'm somehow using it incorrectly, it doesnt seem to be very good. Any recommendations? Maybe some basics I should know when choosing one at least. Thanks!

Or hopefully, help me figure out why my current setup isn't getting much bass! I'm using a Scarlett 2i4 and have my headphone amp plugged into the headphone out with an adapter. Maybe the adapter is the problem?

Is this junk? Seems like a nice solution for the mic as well: https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8&th=1

The way i have done it, is with a Antlion Mod Mic

and this thing for a clean sounding mic input

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0

you can even use it as a portable headphone amp, drives my dt990 250ohms at reasonable levels.

While the software may be a nightmare to install and properly set up the first time, perphaps a Soundblaster E1 could solve your problems? It's around $40 on amazon.
Just a suggestion for you, it's what I use with my boom pro mic.

Just looking into a portable amplifier. How would this one work if I want to use them with TX2BK earphones and ATH-M50x headphones? Sorry if this is a silly question but I don't really understand impedances and things likes that.

Yes. It will plug in through USB, and you will plug your headphones and mic directly into it. The link is the one I have. However I only paid like $30 for it, so idk why it is more now. But, it will not only solve your problem, but also make your audio/mic sound way better.

https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0

Some great USB DAC's (some with integrated headphone amps) to consider, from lowest price to highest:

• Behringer UCA202 USB sound card: http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-UCA202-Audio-Interface/dp/B000KW2YEI
  
• Soundblaster E1 portable DAC/AMP: http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0/
  
• Fiio E07K Desktop DAC & Amp: http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2/
  
• Schiit Modi USB DAC: http://www.amazon.com/Modi-USB-Digital-Analog-Convertor/dp/B00CICPN0K/
  
• Audioengine D1 USB DAC: http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-D1-24-bit-Digital-to-Analog-Converter/dp/B006IPH5H2

How else would I use them other than stereo? There is only two ears on my body. I have an amplifier when I need it. But that doesn't matter, they are powered headphones that have a built in amp.

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0

http://www.amazon.com/Audioquest-DragonFly-Preamp-Headphone-Version/dp/B00H00VLZQ

This Dragonfly 1.2 is the standard in your price range. It regularly goes on sale for under $100 here in the states. Some DACs are considered a little better or worse in that price range, but you could do worse for the money. Schiit fulla is another contender at $80, and there are a few other others that could deserve consideration like the Creative E series:
http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0?ie=UTF8&keywords=creative%20dac&qid=1465356999&ref_=sr_1_7&s=electronics&sr=1-7 (goes on sale for $35 here)

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Portable-Headphone-Amplifier-Bluetooth/dp/B00J79KNPM?ie=UTF8&keywords=creative%20dac&qid=1465356999&ref_=sr_1_4&s=electronics&sr=1-4

These are some of simplest solutions. Plug and play. You could also grab a cheap DAC and a separate, and more powerful Headphone amp if needed.

I think you want something like this with a long USB cable?

If you are feeling experimental and want to keep using your existing buds (since you mentioned they sound better on your phone) you could try using a small amp. I use this sometimes for the boost and also to let me use a mic with my headphones:


Creative Sound Blaster E1 Portable Headphone Amplifier with Integrated Mic and Dual Headphone Jacks for PC and Smartphones https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J2JATL0/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_jUCcvb11MCK34

for the love of god please get some real headphones to go with that beautiful case & monitor!

seriously, you can do much better than "gaming headphones" for a reasonable price.

$50 for a USB Soundcard (DAC) with amp and mic http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Headphone-Amplifier-Integrated-Smartphones/dp/B00J2JATL0/ref=pd_sim_147_25?

$120 for a great set of headphones that will be good for games and music http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50x-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR86/ref=pd_bxgy_267_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=09PNTNE5B0R867A78SQQ

$30 for a mic that plugs into the headphones when needed http://www.amazon.com/V-MODA-BoomPro-Gaming-Headset-Headphone/dp/B00BJ17WKK/ref=pd_sim_267_47?



around $200 and things will sound 10x better.


i just always feel bad for peoples neglected ears. especially with so much eye candy there. its just not fair to them damn it!