[MattTCG]

Currently I have a Valhalla 2 and it's pairing nicely with my hd650's. I'm looking to add another amp (solid state) that plays nicely with planar magnetic hp's. Here is what's on my wishlist:
 
*Balanced input and balanced hp jack
 
*good power/current for planar mags
 
*ability to drive a set of old Mission bookshelf speakers would be a huge bonus but not a deal breaker
 
The rough budget would be $500-$1000. The new Schiit amp is on my radar BUT...it's not out for a while and is really over my budget. 
 
Thanks in advance....
 
Matt

 

[Noobmachine]

Maybe take a look at the new OPPO HA-1 amplifier, it's a fantastic single ended, balanced and preamp, all at a relatively low cost. I got to demo the HA-1 with an LCD-X and it performed great, so it should have no issues driving planars. 

 

[fabio-fi]

I guess the most suitable amp for your needs is the Oppo, as mentioned before. Yulong have some nice units, but their headphone amp still needs to be improved to use with planars,