LCD2, do I need a 1000$ amp for it? - Page 2

I asked a friend if I could have gotten away with the $450 Schiit Lyr with the LCD-2. He said it was OK but the $1000 V200 was a better match. I have it and love it.

If the Lyr is all you can get though I am sure it's not bad at all. You may want to change the tube later on, though.

Quote:

Originally Posted by stv014 

Does it actually use the -12 V supply ? The external power supply is from a 4-pin Molex connector that has only +5 V and +12 V pins, maybe the -12 V is generated with a DC-DC converter.

Yeah the PCI Express interface doesn't have -12V, just the legacy PCI.  So there should be no -12V from the power supply (or motherboard) going into the STX.

My earlier comment about the drive capability of the TPA6120 was extrapolating from the data on the FiiO E9 review at "that" site.  Stereophile seemed to test the STX into 30 ohms at the max volume setting with a 0 dBFS signal, if I'm reading it correctly:

http://www.stereophile.com/content/asus-xonar-essence-ststx-soundcards-measurements

It should be okay.

if the Xonar STX is inverting the +12 V then I'd claim they have more reason to put the max current in the spec - since its their circuit's limitations that controls the limit

but the TPA6120 certainly would have no problem delivering if the current were available from -12 v

It will probably work fine, unless you want extremely high loudness.

Quote:

Originally Posted by calist3r 

I'll admit, the technical stuff flew right over my head.

 

Anyhow, I take it that the Xonar will have no problem driving the LCD-2 Rev.2 Then?

 

Thanks again

I listen at 40% volume on Normal gain, which is 18 dB below 40% on Very High gain. So for me, yes 

I really suggest diying out a B3 enclosure Objective 2 if you are concerned or ask someone from the DIY forum to help you with it. It will be worth it, you get a good analogue stage with pretty sufficient damping of 92 and good output power with headroom. Best of all it will cost about ~$200 at most. Of course you if the Xonar Essence STX satisfies you already, its all good :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by firev1 

with pretty sufficient damping of 92

Fortunately, with planar magnetics, the damping factor is less important than with the more reactive dynamic drivers.

My recommendation for a great amp on a budget for the LCD-2s is the Schiit Lyr. Simply a fantastic match IMO.

Quote:

Originally Posted by MacedonianHero 

My recommendation for a great amp on a budget for the LCD-2s is the Schiit Lyr. Simply a fantastic match IMO.

I agree wholeheartedly.