BudgetAudiophile

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Newbie looking for Budget External Sound Card/DAC with mic input (self.budgetaudiophile)

submitted 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) by pathief to c/budgetaudiophile

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I'm looking for a budget (< 100 euros) USB sound card. I was told several times that I should look for a DAC instead but I honestly don´t know the difference. All I want is to plugin my existing headset (headphones + microphone), listen to music and chat on Discord.

Not sure if it matters but I have the Beyerdynamic Custom Studio headphones and the Beyerdynamic Custom headset Gear microphone (it plugs directly into the headphones, making them an headset). The headset has 1x 3.5mm jack with a splitter into 2x 3.5mm jack.

I was recommended the Focusrite Scarlett Solo but I don´t think it has a "normal" microphone input? I don´t mind getting 1/4 inch adapters but doesn´t seem like it would work. I don´t play any instrument so it really doesn´t feel like the right tool for the job.

Thanks!

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

The Scarlett solo has both an XLR input and a 1/4” input (can only use 1 at a time)

[–] pathief 2 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

From my investigation it seems the 1/4'' input is for instruments, would it be equally suited for voice? I am reading contradictory information :/

[–] thedirtyknapkin 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

what's a "normal" microphone input? to me that's an xlr, but it sounds like you want a second trs input for a two jack headset? that would be hard to find. that configuration is only really found on gaming headsets and external dacs are made for better hardware.

[–] pathief 1 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

My headset uses 2x 3.5mm jacks (actually it has a single jack and I have a splitter but alas). It's not branded as gaming, it's just a convenient way to chat. Gaming is not a priority here.

[–] apochryphal_triptych 2 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Maybe something like the Syba Sonic? I know it has both a mic and line inputs, plus a serviceable DAC. I found it on Amazon for $37 USD.

[–] pathief 2 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

140 euros in Spain, WTH :|

[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

For basic use you can't get a better value than Apple's €25 usb to 3.5mm mini DAC. It is good enough sound, you would have to pay close attention to hear the difference when comparing with my much more expensive break-out boxes including my Scarlette.

And it is TINY.