[VinylStar]

Hi All,
 
This is my first post on this forum, i've been reading about headphones and amps for a few weeks now, and this site contributed majorly to my choice to buy some sennheiser hd 650's. I have found them very deep and impactful on the low-end, caressing in the mid range and very easy on the high end. I am currently powering them of my 2010 mac book pro and was actually surprised by how good they ran.
 
My question really is in two parts:
 
1. How much of a benefit would i get in purchasing a low to mid range amp (under 300 dollars) to the clarity, soundstage etc.
2. What are some good amps that fit into that price range.
 
I was looking on the internet and found this little usb soundcard, was wondering if that would be powerful enough for the hd 650's!?
 
http://www.centrecom.com.au/catalog/product_info.php?sort=2a&products_id=49765
 
Thanks for your time guys, great advice on the hd 650's, they are truly amazing. 

 

[LugBug1]

That Creative amp doesn't look too bad, they are creating (no pun) themselves a good reputation at the budget end.
 
How about the fiio E7/E9 combo? this one is tried and tested and seems to be popular. I've got the E7 and think it is has a great dac for the price. On it's own its not really powerful enough to bring the 650's out of themselves, but with the E9 amp it should.  

 

[mackat]

Quote:

That Creative amp doesn't look too bad, they are creating (no pun) themselves a good reputation at the budget end.
 
How about the fiio E7/E9 combo? this one is tried and tested and seems to be popular. I've got the E7 and think it is has a great dac for the price. On it's own its not really powerful enough to bring the 650's out of themselves, but with the E9 amp it should.  

x2! I havve it, and it's great! Be sure to burn in the HD650's though! I got mine used
 
MacKat
 

 

[desktophifi]

Quote:

How about the fiio E7/E9 combo? this one is tried and tested and seems to be popular. I've got the E7 and think it is has a great dac for the price. On it's own its not really powerful enough to bring the 650's out of themselves, but with the E9 amp it should.  

X3? 

A great combo within your budget. Good for a start. 

 

[Proglover]

yes, if you have 300 usd to spend for it, E7/E9 is probably your best choice

 

[soundaddicted]

An used Headroom Micro could be another choice, if you're on a tight budget. 

 

[Proglover]

Quote:

yes, if you have 300 usd to spend for it, E7/E9 is probably your best choice

Damn, I have to correct myself here. I've been getting used to FiiO being the best bang for the buck, but I came to realise Audio GD's NFB-12 is even better (Wolfson 8740 DAC vs Wolfson 8741)