[john61ct]

I had forgotten to note, biggest problem with HEL

 the "microphone back to USB host" function only works while using its USB-DAC mode,

there is no "switch to analog output" for the mic preamp, all mic functionality gets disabled when listening through the analog line inputs. (???!!!)

[Letitroll98]

This was reported in the More Amazing DACs for Peanuts thread, the Qudelix 5k, which might fit your needs?
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=152638.msg1810468#new

[john61ct]

Wow, yes opens up possibilities, more research then will come back, thanks!

the Qudelix 5k, which might fit your needs?

[john61ct]

Wow the Qudelix 5K looks like a winner, still doing research on it and its competitors

the BT aspect with microphone usage is a bit of a rabbit hole also.

Found this pure passive source switcher + volume pot in the meantime

Little Bear MC1023 A/B Switcher
https://www.doukaudio.com/2-way-audio-microphone-headset-speaker-mic-switcher-hub-volume-control-selector-p0092.html

switches both headphones + stereo mics

between e.g. smartphone & PC, can accept inbound calls, Zoom conference, Skype etc on either

includes mute button, also switches between headphones and speakers

Maybe doesn't detract from SQ?

Alternative suggestions welcome

[john61ct]

Forgot to point out, how this "preamp" allows for any cans, can also use any DAC / Amp as desired

and any type high SQ microphone, including its own audio interface or preamp.

Or use of an integrated headset when that is more appropriate.

Yes violating KISS what a wiring mess, but maximum flexibility.

completely independent of each other.

Not sure about integrating BT in though with the former setup.

[john61ct]

I believe also this "HP preamp" switcher, or hopefully a better version

will also give a solution to this problem with the HEL:

biggest problem with HEL, the "microphone back to USB host" function only works while using its USB-DAC mode,

there is no "switch to analog output" for the mic preamp, all mic functionality gets disabled when listening through the analog line inputs.

Say an LG G7 is on the A side, wired analog only through TRRS then a splitter, the dedicated microphone can be routed straight to the phone, while the headphone pair either the same, or through the HEL's analog input > headphone amp > switcher > my cans.

HEL's HP output gets a splitter, so when you want digital mode, from a PC for example, the HEL is handling both the cans input pair and the microphone's output, 2-way DAC+ADC.