Desktop Headphone Amp Recommendation

[atomiccow 0]

I need a recommendations for a Desktop headphone amp. I'll probably be using it with an HD650 or K701.

 

The list I've been looking at is this:

 

Lehmann Audio Black Cube Linear

Heed Canamp

Hifi500 Stello HP100

Earmax pro or silver

Headamp GS-1

Talisman T3-H

Meier Arietta

 

My price range is round there.. 400 to 700 USD plus or minus some. Open to other recommendations too.

 

Thanx

 

 

[gene83 0]

are you looking at a solid state or a tube?

[kooncm 0]

I have Heed canamp and Earmax Pro using with HD600 and K701. Personally feel that Earmax Pro have better sound with both headphones. But K701 tend to distort if you listen at higher volume (past 1 o'clock position).

[sghound 0]

don't forget the HeadRoom Millett at 649usd, well within your budget. it's well-known to drive both 701 & 650 very nicely.

 

[gene83 0]

maybe you should factor in DIY amps too.

 

Edited November 14, 2007 by gene83

[atomiccow 0]

Not looking into DIY amps because I'm not good enough to build them. Also I'm looking for an amp that does not require an external power supply. 400 to 700 is my budget for an amp with a built in matching power supply. The HeadRoom Millet is stated for recommended use with their HeadRoom Desktop Power Supply.

[sghound 0]

Not looking into DIY amps because I'm not good enough to build them. Also I'm looking for an amp that does not require an external power supply. 400 to 700 is my budget for an amp with a built in matching power supply. The HeadRoom Millet is stated for recommended use with their HeadRoom Desktop Power Supply.

 

u asked for it and they have it. the HeadRoom Ultra with everything in 699usd.

 

[loop_ 0]

The Graham slee solo 'Green' seems to be very well received in the UK

 

http://rockgrotto.proboards39.com/index.cg...84304561&page=1

 

Not sure if it's still available, but the thread says offer till dec 07. It's a pre-release model and at 245gbp, I think it's a steal. Would get it if i don't have so many amps lying around...

 

impressions here:

http://rockgrotto.proboards39.com/index.cg...read=1188233889

[gene83 0]

Try looking for a used PS Audio GCHA

http://www.psaudio.com/products/gcha_headp...er_overview.asp

 

IIRC its about 600+USD? Cant really remember and head-fi is down.

 

Edit: Confirmed that the GS-1 is a Dynahi and the GS-X is a Dynalo but the PSU is built in.

Edited November 14, 2007 by gene83

[atomiccow 0]

Thanx for all the suggestions. However, none of them have helped me really make a decision. I understand this a failure on my part probably to state what I'm looking for.

 

I listen to a lot of vocalists, classical, and instrumental. I'd prefer a sound signature a little bit on the warm side but still clear and musical.

 

I really could consider any of these amps you guys suggest, I just don't know what they sound like. Manufacture websites are always biased so they're no real help.

 

I'm a bit iffy on the HeadRoom line because I have never heard anyone on Head-Fi recommend a HeadRoom. They all seem to lean to the Heed Canamp, Lehmann, and Meier Arietta.

 

Oh and the Graham Slee is out of my budget. With the PSU1 power supply, its almost a 1000 USD.

Edited November 14, 2007 by atomiccow

[Bushwacker 0]

I heard the Lehman Black Cube Linear and I must say it has very good synergy with the 650. I have not listened to the others so I cant comment.

[gene83 0]

for your preference i'd suggest you get a tube or hybrid amp.

that'll get you the vocal warmth that you require.

[pompon 0]

Take a look on SinglePower PPX3 / PPX3 Slam ... Very popular amp at your limit price.

 

I own MPX3 Slam with somes upgrades

(ppx3 is little smaller)