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Looking for a reasonable headphone amp for laptop.

post #1 of 5
12/7/11 at 8:16pm
Thread Starter 

Hey everyone, I have a pair of V-Moda Crossfader LP's (I know not really the best headphones but I have heard how much better they sound with an actual power source) I usually have them hooked up to my laptop which has a pretty bad on board sound card with little power. I am looking for a headphone amp that will support an upgrade in headphones within the next year, but not break the bank. I am looking to spend around $150 cnd if possible, if the quality is that much greater I will go up as high as $200 cnd. I am open to all suggestions because my knowledge of amps is pretty minimal.

Thanks in advance to any suggestions,

-Dino G.

 

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post #2 of 5
12/7/11 at 9:23pm

Hello there, and welcome to Head-Fi. ;)

 

First thing you want to know is that when using a laptop, a DAC (Digital-to-Audio converter, the equivalent of a computer's sound card) will probably do a more significant effect on the sound quality than an amplifier. The Nuforce is very popular and fits the price that you were looking to pay for an amplifier.

 

If you decide to pick an amp (or both), the best value that I can suggest you, although it is above your price range, is the Schiit Asgard ($249 from Schiit Audio). It can compete with models twice the price. I'm sure you can find a used one in the trade forums for less than $200. Also, the amp pairs up very well with Grados. ;)

 

Hope that helps.


Edited by Benjamin6264 - 12/7/11 at 9:26pm
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post #3 of 5
12/7/11 at 9:25pm

Also, the Asgard is a very good choice if you plan on upgrading headphones; it can even provide enough power to drive a pair of Audez'e LCD-2's.

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post #4 of 5
12/7/11 at 9:29pm

http://www.head-fi.org/t/582975/fs-ft-udac-2-hp-black-like-new

 

Apparently, it's also an amp, so two in one. ;)

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post #5 of 5
12/7/11 at 9:30pm
Thread Starter 

Thank you Benjamin I will look into the Asgard, and also if you would like to continue talking about those grados please feel free to add my email as I have some further questions for you.

dgrado1991@gmail.com

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