A new USB-based DAC for hifi

Any audio experts on this forum? My 8-year EMU USB-based soundcard has said farewell to me. It powers on but like a zombie its existence is pretty pointless when the circuitry doesn't work.

For my new DAC I'd like:
- USB-based so that my computer detects it as an audio device.
- Be a pre-amplifier.
- Line volume dial.
- Balanced outputs.
- High quality conversion.

I'm currently looking at Hegel and Emotiva but I'm sure there are other brands to consider. Suggestions on particular models would be greatly appreciated.

hishadow can you be more specific please? Not much ppl use/need stuff like that.
All I can think of is to use this and then check if there is customer feedback what do they say about each one:
http://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?…+24bit+USB+DAC

A DAC is a digital to analog converter.
In this case it would convert the sound card's digital signal signals to analogue ones which I assume would be played through some high fidelity speakers.

The reason for a preamplifier is usually to amplify a signal in such a way so that the gain loss that happens from the conversion is minimised with the least amount of distortion a.
Or at least that what I remember from my telecoms lessons.

Don't know if the above helps anyone…

Hegel ? After the German Philosopher ? Lol, I didn't know that technical devices are named after Philosophers …

@joxer: I avoid noname brands when it comes to hifi. Its too difficult to assess the quality of them. I much rather prefer a well reviewed one.

@Pladio: I want mine to be both a DAC and a pre-amplifier. Then I just need an amplifier.

@Alrik: The name Hegel came from a rock-metal band its founder played in - The Hegel Band. No idea where they got the idea from…

Here's how its gonna be connected:
PC (2$ range) -> DAC (integrated soundcard) -> Amplifier (1000$ range,100-125 watt) -> Speakers (1500$ range, 200 watt)

Pladio I have DAC because my TV has only optical output and I can't plug wireless headphones directly into TV so I had to buy DAC.
This is the one I got (and from that online shop since it's in my country):
http://www.conrad.hr/?websale8=conrad-hr&pi=424379


But it's not DAC he wants, that's why I asked for details. And he provided them. And I can't suggest anything in this case as I've never bought speakers that cost 1500$.

Originally Posted by joxer
..And I can't suggest anything in this case as I've never bought speakers that cost 1500$.

Me neither. I got mine secondhand, half the price.

@joxer,

I misunderstood your question then.
Well, no worries then.

Can't be of anymore help.