u/Frix120

Cheap USB DAC to fix motherboard hiss/whine

Hey everyone

I'm getting a constant high-pitched audio hiss/whine when plugging my headset into my motherboard's 3.5mm jack.

Turning the inline volume wheel on my headset down to 0 doesn't stop the noise, so it seems like motherboard electrical/ground noise. (Please correct me if I'm wrong)

I thought the issue was my headset but recently just got a pair of Sennheisser 560s and the issue is the same

Looking for a simple budget USB DAC/dongle to move my audio away from the motherboard noise floor.

From my search this does seem to be the best solution but please let me know if there is any other alternatives

Requirements:

Stays Cool: I saw recommendations like the FiiO KA11, but heard they run pretty hot. I want something that stays cool or only gets mildly warm.

Sound Quality: Don't need an audiophile upgrade, just clean, hiss-free audio that doesn't sound worse than normal onboard sound.

What budget DACs should I look at? I'm in Europe with a budget range of around 50€ Thanks!