Using a Headphone Amp w/my Powerbook

[NightBird]

I like to listen to music through higher-end headphones using my Powerbook as source.
I want to get a headphone amplifier to potentiate and enhance the sound dynamics. Must I get an amp with USB DAC interface capability for best sound or can I use one without it and still get maximum bang?

 

[Natobasso]

You'll probably get some latency (delay) if you use a USB interface. You could get a headphone amp and just use your headphone out from your laptop. It won't be 'hi-fi' quality, but it should sound pretty darn good.

Musician's Friend has some good options:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/rec/navigation?N=100001&Ntk=All&Ntt=headphone+amplifier&Nty=1&page=3

 

[NightBird]

I understand that a really good sound card would enhance sound quality; what are some primo sound cards that I could advantageously upgrade my PB with?

 

[Qion]

I understand that a really good sound card would enhance sound quality; what are some primo sound cards that I could advantageously upgrade my PB with?

Unless you inexorably enjoy soldering milimeter thick diodes with a very precise welder, you're going to have to use that which one would call "an external solution".

I have seen very few of these in all honesty; however, USB tends to lead the trend of external sound cards. Even these, of course, run into a mobility problem; one would not fancy hauling around an expensive addition to an already expensive computer if it be unwonted in the first place.

You could, of course, just pagar por un MacBook nuevo. Ellos tienen optical-digital audio ports.

 

[Satcomer]

I like to listen to music through higher-end headphones using my Powerbook as source.
I want to get a headphone amplifier to potentiate and enhance the sound dynamics. Must I get an amp with USB DAC interface capability for best sound or can I use one without it and still get maximum bang?

I use Rogue Amoeba's Audio Hijack Pro to enhance iTunes sound.