Hi,
I have a HD580 and UM3X and I've been considering an Arrow amp. Anyone out there with either of those combinations who can help me out with some more information?
Thanks.
As I noted above I have both the HD580 and Westone 3 (close cousin of the UM3X).
To be honest, I've mostly been using the Arrow with my newly acquired HD 25, which is a great combo. I've used the HD580 just enough to play around with the gain and imp settings. I was amazed that the Arrow supplies plenty of power at the lowest gain setting (at least for my listening levels). Because of that there was no need to increase the impedance. What prevents me from using the HD580 more is simply the cord length, which is too long for portable use.
For both these Senn phones, bass is ample with no boost, particularly on the HD25, which provide thumping bass. On the W3 I feel the need to boost the bass to the "I" position, as otherwise the trebles are just a tad too "sparkly", for lack of a better term. It's annoying.
I've not listened to the UM3X but from what I understand it is more neutral, less enhanced on highs and lows compared with the W3. How that translates to your own preferences only you can answer.
But I will say that the ability to make adjustments is one of the major strengths of this amp, in contrast to others of similar size (eg, Pico Slim, RSA Shadow, TTVJ Slim), which cost more but mostly eschew user controls. I'm sure you'll find it to suit your listening needs.
Hope this helps!