Audio-Technica ATH-M50x w/ Samsung USB-C Headphone Adapter. Do I need a separate amp?

[MartinEighty8]

I'm using the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x with a Samsung USB-C Headphone Adapter in my PC. After trying my controller's headphone port, my front port and the Apple USB-C adapter (EU A2155 version), I finally have audio that is perfectly loud, clear with lovely warm bass etc.

So to me, it sounds fantastic. Would getting a separate amp like the JDS Labs Atom or a DAC/Amp like the Loxjie D30 audibly improve my situation any more?

Most likely not an objective question, so subjective answers are more than welcome.

 

[twsecrest]

Me, I would not spend a lot for a DAC/amp, for the ATH-M50X headphones.
Hifimediy has DACs for $30-$42.
https://hifimediy.com/product-categ...ce=50&q=/product-category/dacs/&orderby=price
For something that would be a little better long term investment ($100), for working with future headphones, Schiit Fulla 3.
https://www.schiit.com/products/fulla-1

 

[Lambda]

Less is more. if its loud enough you don't need an Amp.
might need an buffer if the output can't handle the current
but in this case it sure can.

 

[MartinEighty8]

Thank you for your answers, much appreciated.

 

[dontlikejazz]

I have the same headphones, using a Tempotec sonata HD Pro, it's considerably louder than my Macbook jack and of course my iPhone's lightning adapter. WIth the sonata, I can still crank the volume all the way up, but it's unbearable for more than 30 seconds.
Using my Denon DNP800 streamer's headphone output, power is considerably more but I can't raise volume more than 50% as I am getting extrememely loud sound and distortion.
tl;dr additional DAC won't offer more if you're already happy with the power, I personally found a bigger improvement by playing with EQ and using settings close to the ones Amir posted in his review.