[mshan]

I currently own a Heed Canamp and use AKG K701 headphones (probably still breaking in at 100 hour mark).
 
Can anyone describe in detail how different a presentation the Musical Fidelity X-Can v8 would provide vs. my current Heed Canamp?

 

[Zombie_X]

I've never heard the Canamp, but I can describe my X-CANV8P's sound sig for you.
 
For one this amp is a hybrid design. The tubes buffer the sound and it's passed to the solid state output jacks. This way you get the tube warmth and solid state power.
 
- The V8P is a warm, musical, and detailed sounding amp. It has a weight to the sound that can make music sound more enjoyable and full. 
 
- I found the bass on it to be excellent with it's punch and extension, but lacking with the stock power plug. I recommend the Pinkie PSU here.
 
- Dynamics also lack when using the stock plug. With the Pinkie PSU the dynamics are pretty good and make the music more engaging.
 
- The soundstage is pretty big and the presentation is airy without being overly spacious.
 
- I found the treble to be well extended and somewhat sweet/soft, but this is not a bad thing. Having the treble like that makes this amp less tiresome on your ears.
 
- The midrange is fleshed out with good transparency and detail. Vocals really seem to come to life on this amp. 

 

[tweako]

What do you mean by the "pinkie PSU"? I would love to upgrade from the wall-wart that my X-CAN V8 came with, but I don't want to spend $500 for the one Music Fidelity was offering. Know any cheaper alternatives?
 
Thanks.
 
P.S. How is the "P" version different, if you know? 

 

[tweako]

You might have enough hours on your AKG 701s now, but mine needed a full 400 hrs to sound sweet.