LCD-3 / HD-800 amp - Page 12

I recently listened to the HD800s and the LCD 3s.  The 800s were MUCH more to my taste.  Now I want to figure out a set up to go with the HD 800s--amp, dac, and cables.  I'd like the whole thing to be portable and preferably balanced.  I want to avoid sibilance, but I don't want to lose any of the 800s clarity and soundstage.  Any suggestions?

Just got the HD800 today. Highly, highly recommend this combination of gear.

Quote:

Originally Posted by sonictransducer 

I recently listened to the HD800s and the LCD 3s.  The 800s were MUCH more to my taste.  Now I want to figure out a set up to go with the HD 800s--amp, dac, and cables.  I'd like the whole thing to be portable and preferably balanced.  I want to avoid sibilance, but I don't want to lose any of the 800s clarity and soundstage.  Any suggestions?

>>>>iPod>RSA71B>Blue Dragon Balanced Cables.

>>>>Previously I've tried the Rx3-B but its just slightly more treble friendly for the HD800s.
>>>>Am awaiting a CLAS-dB and will let you know what it adds to my RSA rig.

Many thanks for the recommendation.  Do you think the CLAS-dB/RSA71B combo would be better than just getting an RSA Intruder?  I'm sure the CLAS is a better DAC than what you'd get with the intruder, but I thought there might be an advantage to having fewer components, and hence fewer cables and connections between components.  Or does having a better DAC trump that consideration?

That's good to know.  Thanks for your impressions.  I'll be interested to know how they burn in.

Currently using the Oppo BDP-105 feeding XLR to the Schiit Mjolnir.  It sounds terrific with the LCD-2, LCD-3 and HD800.  Bonus:  I can listen to the HD800 and LCD-2/3 at the same time because the outputs are active simultaneously.  I find the LCD-2 a bit harder to drive than the LCD-3, curiously.  Before I had the Schiit I was considering selling the HD800, but either the amp quality or being driven balanced (or both) really helps the HD800 with bass quality and overall smoother sound.  Soon I will try the HD580/600/650 with this amp to see how far it takes them.  I felt the Mjolnir drives the HE-500 decently, but my FirstWatt F1 improved the sound of that headphone, and especially the HE-6 (and of course, my AKG K1000). P.S.  While I felt the LCD-3 was better than the LCD-2 in most regards it was not worth the extra $1K for me, so the LCD-2 is here to stay with the HD800.  The comfort factor of the HD800 may eventually negate the need for the LCD-2, but MAN that headphone LOVES Opeth...

Apologies for the rambling post, but I have been enjoying headphone listening again and missed this community!
 

I had the pleasure of having the Cavalli Liquid Gold, the LAu, for a few days.  I doubt there is a better amp for the LCD's or the 800's that this.  Yes it is expensive and yes they are limited production.  Worth every penny if you've got it.