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CMoy --> Millett MiniMax --> ???

post #1 of 30
2/6/09 at 4:09pm
Thread Starter 
Hey folks,

I'm still pretty new to the headphone scene but already really really enjoying the DIY amp process. I've build a Cmoy BB from JDS and just finished a Millet Minimax. The minimax really brought my HD650's to life and now I'm wondering if there's a different (not necessarily better, but better would be good) DIY amp that I should try next. I'm thinking a solid state amp would be a good one since I already have the Millet. Maybe a CK2III? Or I could stay with tubes and build a SOHA II. The B22 seems like a bit of a stretch for my skills at this point, but if it's a significant upgrade, I'd consider it.

Anyway, if folks have any thoughts about what might be a good next step in my DIY experiences, I'd appreciate it.

Thanks!
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post #2 of 30
2/6/09 at 6:52pm
Hmm, you can build a PIMETA. It is basically a kitchen sink opamp design. If I ever get some extra income I plan to build one for my desktop.
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post #3 of 30
2/6/09 at 7:21pm
Why not try and build a DAC next? If you aren't too worried about SMD soldering you can put together a BantamDAC for under $40.
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post #4 of 30
2/6/09 at 7:47pm
Thread Starter 
@rembrant - Any reason you would recommend a PIMETA over the CK2III?
The PIMETA seems like it might be not as high powered whereas the CK2III would have plenty of oomph for my HD650's.

@DKJones - I was actually thinking about a Bantam DAC. I've never done SMD soldering but I think it would be fun to learn. I'd probably do this in addition to whatever amp I choose to build.
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post #5 of 30
2/6/09 at 8:21pm
Thread Starter 
Ooh, there's also the M3 to consider. Decisions, decisions.
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post #6 of 30
2/6/09 at 9:54pm
I have both amps, and while in my opinion the CK2III is the best bang for the buck, the PIMETA can be a portable too...my PIMETA drives my HD600s with ease on 10 AA cells, and charges in 2 hours. (see sig)
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post #7 of 30
2/6/09 at 10:33pm
Thread Starter 
Vixr - How do you find the CK2III vs. the millett max in terms of sound profile (I won't say quality)? Similar quality, just different?
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post #8 of 30
2/7/09 at 2:34pm
Thread Starter 
I think I'll go for the CK2III. Has anyone built a CK2III with the glassjar audio kit? Wondering if that's a good way to go or if I should source everything myself.
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post #9 of 30
2/7/09 at 6:44pm
to my old ears the CK2III is just different than the Millett...the CK2III doesn't "color" the music like the Millett. Both are equally beautiful in thier own way. If you go with your own parts order instead of a kit, amb provides a most excellent BOM at his website. Take your time ordering...there is nothing worse than forgetting a single critical part and having to wait on another shipment.
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post #10 of 30
2/8/09 at 1:52am
I built it from the glassjar kit and recommend that. Why spend time sourcing stuff when someone else will do it? He does a great job.
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post #11 of 30
2/8/09 at 2:32am
Thread Starter 
lacrossebowe8 - did you upgrade anything or did you just go with what was in the kit? Anything that you needed to get that wasn't in the kit?
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post #12 of 30
2/8/09 at 3:58am
I'm not seeing the kit for CK²III on Glass Jar Audio's site, am I missing something?
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post #13 of 30
2/8/09 at 6:48am
Thread Starter 
It's not on the main site, but it's here: CKK3_kit

I emailed Jeff about the kit but haven't heard back from him yet. There are a few other kits on this page as well:
index
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post #14 of 30
2/8/09 at 6:03pm
Thread Starter 
So here's a revised thought... if I build the CK2III, am I just going to turn around and want to build the Beta 22 soon thereafter? Is the Beta 22 that much of an upgrade?
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post #15 of 30
2/8/09 at 6:21pm
nice site thanks for the link i was looking for some kits
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