FWIW I'm using a MOTU M2 (newest version) and Adam Audio T5Vs, I couldn't be happier. The T5V are roughly comparable to the JBLs you're using. I set my windows volume to 95% and use the DAC volume controls. My T5Vs on-board amps are set to slightly above 0dB (id say +4 ish), and if I crank the MOTU they get plenty loud for all but house party level listening while staying clean. There is definitely headroom, but I'm not interested in 90+dB listening.
For gaming or quieter listening I have a pair of Beyer TYGR300 R headphones and the MOTU can drive them to uncomfortably high volumes, although to be fair they are low impedance cans.
Maybe you could get some dough back from that Bifrost and try a MOTU or Focusrite that will have on board separate volume control for balanced TRS outputs and XLR/TRS inputs for some extra versatility. Maybe you'll hear a small difference in quality between the MOTU M2 and the Bifrost, but I really doubt it. If it turns out you're happy with a MOTU, the money saved would go a long way toward future speaker upgrades.
For gaming or quieter listening I have a pair of Beyer TYGR300 R headphones and the MOTU can drive them to uncomfortably high volumes, although to be fair they are low impedance cans.
Maybe you could get some dough back from that Bifrost and try a MOTU or Focusrite that will have on board separate volume control for balanced TRS outputs and XLR/TRS inputs for some extra versatility. Maybe you'll hear a small difference in quality between the MOTU M2 and the Bifrost, but I really doubt it. If it turns out you're happy with a MOTU, the money saved would go a long way toward future speaker upgrades.
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