Hello, all. I have been reading these forums for countless hours within the past week, and I finally had to join. I'd like to start off by saying I am a long-time electronics hobbyist (on and off, when I have time) with a terrible habit of either never finishing projects, or finishing them and never putting them to use because of a lack of proper housing/enclosure (or lack of time for that matter).
I will be away from my home for at least a year or two, and as music is an important part of my leisure, I've decided to invest in a fairly decent pair of headphones and amplifier. Bringing most of my hi-fi with me is out of the question because of the size and weight, and since I will be living in a flat/apartment on a nocturnal schedule speakers are generally out of the question at the volumes I prefer (not to mention I have been preferring headphones more as of late, anyway). I have a lot of fairly excellent audio equipment, but have not had any experiences with more expensive reference phones. I've been auditioning a few recently and will probably end up settling with the DH 600s or 650s. I may also consider the Bayer 880s but leaning towards the Sennheiser models at this point.
From my readings within the past week, it seems as though buying a commercial amplifier in most cases is a 'waste of money' as a DIY solution for the same price will generally yield you a better end product (or a similar quality product for less). I'm leaning towards a valve amp (preferred) or at least a hybrid. That said, I've been reading up on the most common DIY builds, especially the ones recommended for the 6X0s, and the general consensus has been the Cavalli Audio projects (Bijou/SOHA II, EHHA) or some of the cheaper hybrid builds (m3/Millet/SS). If it helps, I listen to classical/jazz and some electronic music (IDM, downtempo, dnb) exclusively. I would say that my budget is about $150-$300 USD for now for this project.
I'd really like to build the Bijou, but it seems that if I buy the kit from glass jar audio ($200), add the transformer ($50), and an enclosure solution ($40-$70), I am already at my budget without having factored in shipping or other costs like switch/sockets/knobs etc, which will probably end up being at least $350-70 total.
Other than the Bijou, what would my next best alternative be? I may still fork up the money and go the Bijou route, but still keeping my options open.
As for enclosures, the Hammond ones I've seen around here look great. I think I will go with the HWCHAS series (http://www.hammondmfg.com/HWCHAS.htm) or the 1441 (http://www.hammondmfg.com/dwg20CWW.htm). What dimensions would be appropriate for the Bijou? Trying to keep it as small as possible without heat being a huge issue.
If anyone can suggest any other great looking enclosures (or good DIY/commercial valve amps), that would be appreciated too. I would like the enclosures to preferably be wooden or include wood in their design, but anything is fine).
Cheers
Edited by herro - 11/16/10 at 11:00pm
