What sound quality will I have using Nexus with Hifimediy USB DAC to 3.5mm Aux input?

[s2g-unit 10+ year member]

I'm using a 2013 Nexus 7 with this USB DAC & Lossless files, CDT speakers & kicker amp:

HiFimeDIY Sabre U2 Asynchronous USB DAC

If I connect this DAC to a newer headunit using AUX input, let's say 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable.

Shouldn't the sound quality be pretty good considering the USB is not using my tablet's headphone/internal DAC?

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[trumpet 5,000+ posts]

There might be an improvement in sound out of the external DAC, but the bottleneck is the next device in the chai signal path.

 

[s2g-unit 10+ year member]

There might be an improvement in sound out of the external DAC, but the bottleneck is the next device in the chai signal path.

ok, lets say USB DAC>3.5mm to RCA>80prs rear auxilary input>amp Would I still be able to use the volume control for AUX input & how would this sound?

How about if we compare USB DAC>3.5mm to spdif>minidsp or similar DSP with optical input>amp?

 

[trumpet 5,000+ posts]

ok, lets say USB DAC>3.5mm to RCA>80prs rear auxilary input>amp Would I still be able to use the volume control for AUX input

Yes.

& how would this sound?

I imagine it would sound fine as the DEH-80PRS has a reputation for good sound quality. However, it's a few years old and you will be missing some modern head unit features. I think it makes more sense to use a Sony single DIN with their remote control app, then output from the Sony head unit into a DSP. Then you can retain steering wheel controls(with an interface), AM/FM/HD radio, and if you ever want to play CDs you will have that option as well.

How about if we compare USB DAC>3.5mm to spdif>minidsp or similar DSP with optical input>amp?