u/lesaverman

Preamp/DAC for Active Studio Monitor (KH 120 ii) with no recording

I am adding Neumann KH 120 ii to my desktop setup, and having trouble deciding on pre amp/DAC versus usb audio interface.

Location: USA (Louisiana)

Budget : $1,000 max, but would prefer something less expensive

Summary:

Speakers : KH 120ii

Desk: 72" standing desk in 10x10 office.

Priorities are sound quality and bluetooth / remote capability

this will not be used for any sort of recording. 90% use at standing desk in 3.5 foot/1meter triangle.

I assume a DAC/preamp would be a better option for me than an audio interface.

Is there a best pre amp for my use case, with following included ? :

Looking for recommendations on preamp or DAC that includes :

  • XLR output (KH 120 ii speakers)
  • Bluetooth
  • Secondary "wish list" would be Roon and/or local/USB playback.
  • amp for head phone would be good for future, but not necessary at all.

Current options/what I am looking at :

DAC/Amp/Preamps :

FiiO k15

Topping DX5

Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200m

USB Audio Interface :

Focusrite 2i2

Motu M2

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u/lesaverman — 3 hours ago