I think there’s a reason Audeze recommend 1-4W to properly drive an LCD (maybe not the X/XC which are easier to drive). It has nothing to do with loudness and everything to do with control.
Yes they’ll sound good off lesser sources, but they’ll sound bigger and better with more power and more importantly more synergy.
Also need to take into account the sound profile of your headphones, and how you like to hear them. For example if you want more clarity and treble detail from your LCD-3, don’t plug it into a warmer, thicker sounding dac or amp. Likewise if you like your bass deep and powerful, find an amp tuned to deliver just that.
Basing your amp choice on power required to get a headphone to a certain volume level is absolutely pointless.
Yes they’ll sound good off lesser sources, but they’ll sound bigger and better with more power and more importantly more synergy.
Also need to take into account the sound profile of your headphones, and how you like to hear them. For example if you want more clarity and treble detail from your LCD-3, don’t plug it into a warmer, thicker sounding dac or amp. Likewise if you like your bass deep and powerful, find an amp tuned to deliver just that.
Basing your amp choice on power required to get a headphone to a certain volume level is absolutely pointless.