IanM
Head-Fier
- Joined
- Mar 10, 2010
- Posts
- 74
- Likes
- 10
I guess the Headstage Arrow 12HE is an odd comparison on the full size amp forum, but I'm unfamiliar with most of the brands and headphone amps I'm reading about here on Head-Fi so please excuse my ignorance! I don't have an absolute need for the slimline form factor, but there are a few things I find appealing about the Arrow based on the reviews on comments - mainly neutral sound and the option to apply a subtle bass boost tweak (that's pretty much the only eq I sometimes use on any hi-fi) I also like the idea of something that will be very compatible with most IEMs, and a wide variety of sources. Can I get a similar/better sounding desktop amp for a much lower price? maybe $50-$100?
A key use will be getting the best possible sound from my PC, but an integrated DAC looks like a luxury. I'm opposed to using USB from the computer, but maybe would use optical or SPDIF if the sound quality is better. Bottom line is I don't want to bypass the sound card if I get another X-Fi or similar.
Just to complicate things further, today's exchange rate is dire for imports into the UK e.g. the Pico Slim ends up approx. 85% more expensive than the Arrow! So a lot of the USA and China made amps that are popular on here won't necessarily be such a good deal for me (not ruling them out, it just makes comparing based on price that much less straightforward) For quick reference: a $200 amp would be slightly more expensive than the Arrow after import to the UK.
I have ruled out a couple of obvious UK/EU options: Musical Fidelity (not a brand I will buy) and Pro-Ject Head-Box II (not great sounding, and maybe isn't ideal for IEMs anyway?)
A key use will be getting the best possible sound from my PC, but an integrated DAC looks like a luxury. I'm opposed to using USB from the computer, but maybe would use optical or SPDIF if the sound quality is better. Bottom line is I don't want to bypass the sound card if I get another X-Fi or similar.
Just to complicate things further, today's exchange rate is dire for imports into the UK e.g. the Pico Slim ends up approx. 85% more expensive than the Arrow! So a lot of the USA and China made amps that are popular on here won't necessarily be such a good deal for me (not ruling them out, it just makes comparing based on price that much less straightforward) For quick reference: a $200 amp would be slightly more expensive than the Arrow after import to the UK.
I have ruled out a couple of obvious UK/EU options: Musical Fidelity (not a brand I will buy) and Pro-Ject Head-Box II (not great sounding, and maybe isn't ideal for IEMs anyway?)
