Laptop, DAC & Headphones on a budget

[admin_exported]

Been musing for yonks what to buy and when I can afford it.

I've got little cash at the mo' and thought I could get the ball rolling with a budget set up.

For very little I could hook up my laptop and ipod to a Beresford TC-7510 (or7520) and a pair of Grado SR80i's.

Has anyone got any thoughts on this?

It would cost me about £225, but I was wondering if I could do it differently: A bit more cash for a much better sound. Less cash for the same sound. Or should I bide my time and get somethiong really worth it?

 

[Messiah]

I use the Beresford 7520 with some Grado SR60s. I am very happy with this and I think you will be suitably impressed!

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks Messiah.

I'm not expecting miracles for the outlay. I just want to know if I am spending my money wisely.

 

[Messiah]

I would say 'Yes'.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks again Messiah!

Noticed that you've got a set of AVI ADM 9.1's. I considered splashing out and just having a pair of these or some Dynaudio MC-15.

As an aside, what are your thoughts on active speakers with just an ipod or laptop?

 

[Messiah]

My main set up is exactly that - iPod or laptop (although I have other items in the chain but this is not necessary) and ADMs.

My thoughts are that this system is simply stunning and I doubt I would ever buy passive speakers again for my main system.

Very simple system that punches way above its weight. Way above!

 

[Anonymous]

Cheers Messiah.

I'm gonna give the SR80i's and the Beresford a punt, just to get the ball rolling. Once cash allows I will consider the ADM's. I do like the look of a nice set of seperates, but they don't fit in with the Mrs's plans for the house. They could tick the boxes of both my own and my Mrs'.

 

[Messiah]

Well when funds allow I would certainly at least try to demo them.

If you are not near one of the few dealer or factories then there are a few users on here (me included) who would be prepared to demo them for you - and we don't get a cut!

 

[idc]

Get the Beresford with the USB connection, not all have it. It will make connecting to your laptop easier.

 

[Anonymous]

Will do idc, makes sense to me.

Noticed that you have an amp with your set up. Will the Beresford be enough without one?

 

[PJPro]

The Beresford is an amp and a DAC in a single box.

 

[Anonymous]

Cheers PJPro!

Well that's sorted, Grado SR80i's and a Beresford DAC to be bought.

Thanks for the feedback everyone.

 

[PJPro]

The Beresford and SR80s is where I started with headphone hifi. I think it's a good start point and I'm still using the Beresford as my DAC.

Let us know how you get on.

 

[Anonymous]

Have you listened to a pair of Grados before? I have found them a little harsh, though I do not have a headphone amp, just use them with my ipod. One other thing I am not so pleased about is that they are quite uncomfortable.

 

[Anonymous]

I have Grado Sr 60 and find them fantastic and comfy. The Adms are a brilliant solution to the sound per £/box count. I'm near Bedford if you need a demo.
I'm after new in ear phones £200 budget.
Nick