[GL1TCH3D]

Currently have the HD800 run by an ODAC and O2.
I don't like the ODAC and the O2 broke (but I'm likely going to get it repaired, so I'm not going to just get another one).
My budget is around $300 right now for a decent budget amp that synergizes well with the hd800.
I prefer crisper sound from my HD800, so tube amps are out.
Thanks for any help.

 

[Greed]

I would check out the Matrix M-Stage. It has been said to be one of the best, if not the best budget SS amp for the HD 800. I would also look into the Yulong D100 MK II. 

 

[GL1TCH3D]

I believe I have previously tried the M-Stage but did not prefer it to the O2.
I've seen the D100 name floating around so I'll definitely look into that.

 

[Greed]

Quote:

I believe I have previously tried the M-Stage but did not prefer it to the O2.
I've seen the D100 name floating around so I'll definitely look into that.

Yea, if you are one that likes a pure sound, more on the side of analytical I'm guessing the D100 might give you that. The M-Stage has been said to be somewhat of a warm sounding SS amp, probably why many people enjoy it with the HD 800. You could also look into the new Schiit Asgard 2, not sure how the pairing will be but it is worth looking into. 

 

[clarknova]

Schiit Asgard 2 without question in that price range. If you want to save some cash the Magni drives the HD800's wonderfully and I just listened to that combo today and found it very pleasing.

 

[stainless824]

Bottlehead crack. DIY tube amp. Best price/performance ratio for the HD800

 

[Greed]

Bottlehead crack. DIY tube amp. Best price/performance ratio for the HD800

You should read the OP, you might find something relevant to the OP's question.

 

[GL1TCH3D]

Probably going for the yulong d100 as it will hopefully replace both my odac and O2 but definitely considering the asgard 2

 

[Dubstep Girl]

the words budget and hd 800 should never be used in the same sentence, just my $0.02
 
but the asgard 2 should definitely be one of the better options under 300$

 

[GL1TCH3D]

the words budget and hd 800 should never be used in the same sentence, just my $0.02

but the asgard 2 should definitely be one of the better options under 300$

Frankly my favorite setup with the HD800 to date has been the CLAS (first version) + JDS Labs O2
Of course I have not heard every single pairing ever created, my actual experiences are quite limited in reality.
Hated the bryston, the wa22 was pretty good, didn't like one of the higher end schiit setups that I tried at a meet (with the hd800).
Tried some of the hifiman amps. The EF6 was too laid back. The EF5 was actually quite nice.
The WA7 fireflies was a big let down for me.
Didn't really enjoy any other tube amps beside the wa22 and ef5.

I don't believe that higher price necessarily means better sound quality.