[DerangedGoose]

So Ive narrowed down my choices for a set of neutral music production/studio headphones to the AKG 240 and the Fostex T50. If I decide to run unamped, I would go with the AKG 240. If I decide to get an amp, I would go for the T50, which can be had at a fraction of what they are really worth (or so Im told). I realize the 240 comes in high-power studio versions as well, but the T50 was described as the most neutral in my price range, so if Im going through the hassle of an amp, ill get those cans.
 
Which brings me to my question: users in the headphone section told me that I could find a cheap "stereo receiver" in the 50 dollar range. Ive found several on craigslist, if you guys could review them and give me opinions:
 
 
 

[size=medium] Sony STR-DE185 Stereo Receiver - $25[/size]

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/ele/2397990675.html
 
Sony STR-DE 597 - $45
http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/ele/2384758847.html
 
 

[size=medium] Insignia NS-R2001 200W 2.0 Channel Stereo Receiver Amp Amplifier - $50[/size]

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/ele/2449336331.html
 
 

[size=medium] Sony STR-DE185 receiver (barely used) - $40 [/size]

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/ele/2458460229.html
 
 

[size=medium] Pioneer receiver VSX-D704S - $50[/size]

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/ele/2452840315.html
 
 
Which of these is a good system? What should I be looking for? When a model says XX power output, is this power output available through the phono jack as well? Thats the only jack I'll really be using. How do I know which system wont color my sound? I will be using this to drive studio phones for production, so I dont want added color confusing my mastering/mixdown. 
 
How much should I be willing to spend? Or am I getting ahead of myself, and should I just go for the 240 and wait till I can afford a true amp?
 
Thanks so much for your time guys!

 

[BotByte]

Hello! I thought I told you to got to a second hand store to get one. I'll save you a lot of money
 
Well, the Pioneer is very close to mine, and would surface for a bit, but I would only pay that price if I was going to hook up speakers to it.
 
In truth, any cheap one will do. I say get the $25 sony because it is actually at a good price. I wouldn't pay much more, they really aren't worth it.

 

[RexAeterna]

a stereo receiver all they use is a simple resistor between the power amp section and headphone out and it's your lucky day if you pick the sony up. i was able to find a service manual and check the schematics and it seems to use a 680ohm@1w resistor for left and right channel for the headphone output. meaning basically if you plugged headphones with impedance of 680ohms you can drive up to 1w into the headphones. when you plug anything lower impedance more power can be drawn if needed. i say go for the sony most defiantly but i don't know sound of the unit itself. you might like the sound of the unit or not. if plan on using speakers with it,it seems to lack power for low impedance speakers so don't drive anything under nominal impedance of 6ohms with the receiver.