DAC + AMP for Hifiman HE1000SE in 2024

[rouzbeha]

Hi all,
I’m rather new to the Audio science and audiophile realm. Is RME ADI-2 DAC FS still best path forward for a DAC+AMP setup to drive a Hifiman HE1000SE for around 1000,- euro budget in 2024? Any other candidate in mind?

 

[MaxwellsEq]

Is RME ADI-2 DAC FS still best path forward

Best is a bit subjective! If you buy the RME you won't regret it, simply because of the build and support quality allied with useful features. It's unlikely that you will be able to hear any difference between it and similar high quality devices.

 

[rs172]

Using the Hifiman HE1000se, I use the Topping DX9 pro as a DAC/AMP combo, Sounds Great!! very detailed and holographic. But since these headphones scale up very good when using better gear, I also use the Topping DX9 pro as a DAC only using its XLR's into the Hifiman Goldenwave Prelude Amplifier and it sounds better! Sound stage is deeper, wider and the resolution is a bit better.