REVIEW (in progress) - Nuforce HDP 24/96 USB-Optical 24/192 Coax DAC Preamp and Headphone Amp - Page 94

Quote:

Originally Posted by soulrider4ever 

Will this work well with the Audeze LCD-2 rev 1?

Yes, they pair well together, and I was fairly sure I posted that here in this thread before.  

Quote:

Originally Posted by soulrider4ever 

Well I just got the DACmini for the Audeze, but I might try this to bank the $500 if the difference is negligible.

Like I said, the HDP pairs well with my LCD-2 rev1, but the DACmini is a little more transparent and balanced sounding.  However the HDP becomes more holographic and transparent sounding with the addition of my Sigma 11 linear-regulated PSU, and at that point it comes very close to the DACmini when used with LCD-2.  The improvement with the upgraded PSU is very noticeable, and pleasing.  I'd expect the Nuforce brand linear PSU to compare well to the S11.  With the upgraded PSU the difference between the two products is not big, but with the stock PSU the difference between amps with LCD-2 is a little bigger, although it's still a good pairing.  I do find the HDP to not pair as well with HD800 or HE-500 due to it's amp's slightly aggressive nature, so if you ever plan to get those phones you might prefer the DACmini you have.  The DACmini's volume control is also a bit better with IEM at very low volumes.

Quote:

Originally Posted by tom2cruise 

Have you tried a 12V PSU vs the 15V, any difference? Thanks.
 

My comparison is of the stock PSU to my 15v Sigma 11.  I haven't tried any other PSU yet.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aegir 

This Sigma 11 is only available as a kit, or are there pre-assembled models available for the non-technically inclined?    If not, can anyone recommend a 12 volt external power supply that will pair well with the HDP that is lower in price than the Nuforce LPS-1?

What's the difference between a liner or a linear switching power supply?

Thanks.

You could do an online search for a Sigma 11 builder, or look for rockhopper audio or MisterX who might build them.  A 12v lead acid battery could do the job.

I'm not an expert but off the top of my head I would say (1) Unlike a linear PSU a switching power supply doesn't keep the voltage constant but lets power drop and come back on at a high frequency, giving the psu a rest but maintaining a relatively steady output level in the vicinity of where it should be. (2) A regulated PSU doesn't let the output voltage sag or fluctuate when a load is applied (i.e. plugging in and turning on the amp).

You may be able to find a linear regulated laptop PSU for less that could do the job.  Radioshack used to sell them.

Quote:

Originally Posted by miyinan 

I have a HDP and planning to get a pair DT880s. Will it drives the 600 ohm version to its full potential? Cuz if not, I guess I am better off with the 250 ohm version? Anyone with experience?

 

@Headphoneaddict, I read your post that you said the HDP drives your 600 ohm AKG 240 pretty well. Have you ever tried any 600 ohm Beyer with HDP?

 

Thanks:)

No, the only 600 ohm phone I've tried is the K240M.  I've heard other versions of DT880 and wasn't impressed.  I'd like to try the 600 ohm Beyer some day.