To be fair, the DT 700 doesn't need an amp, the issue is that it's so good it's picking up on system noise you wouldn't be able to hear on cheap headphones. The noise was always there, the 700 is just letting you know. That's why it needs a DAC, blame your PC :p My last two smartphones had good enough circuitry that I never heard system noise, but my old laptop and modern desktop are very noisy.
This is what I have, and it's been great: www.amazon.com/dp/B07TW2JQNN
But there's cheaper options if you're willing to gamble. No idea if this is actually any good: www.amazon.com/dp/B08L9C7233/
The FX Audio DAC-X6 is what I paired the SHP9500 when I first started my audio hobby.
Great starter DAC AMP for $65.Mine has lasted 3 years. It is now hooked up to my TV.
While I really like the SHP9500 two other inexpensive headphones to consider if you enjoy more bass
are : Koss KPH30i $30
And HiFiman HE-35X on Drop $75
anyone know if either of these would be good options?: https://www.amazon.com/FX-Audio-Digital-Decoder-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B07TW2JQNN/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=dac&qid=1595409357&sr=8-3
The T8 is a garbage product. There are better DACs available for half the price, and way better DACs available for the same price, and these don’t have the goofy tube buffer grafted on that does nothing except raise your noise floor. If yours is defective, I would recommend getting it replaced under warranty and then just selling the warranty replacement unit.
A good rule of thumb is that if “tube” gear looks suspiciously similar in size and shape to other products that do the same tasks and do not have tubes… avoid it.