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How do you like the HP-P1? I'm considering one to jump start my portarig again.
The only criticism I have of it is that it doesn't have non-iDevice inputs -- i.e. you can only really use it as a USB DAC from an iPod/iPhone/iPad/whatever. This makes it useless as an external DAC from a computer; it only works as an amp using an analog input.
That said, the audio quality is stunning. It's able to deliver extremely neutral, detailed, fast sound to the Ed 8s, which they faithfully reproduce. The gain switch was very useful for testing the DT-770s (although they're only at 250Ω), the volume was similar at the second gain setting as on the ~32Ω Ed 8s, and it was not distorted in the slightest. I'm looking forward to seeing how it works with the T50RPs when I have a chance to test it with those.
I've also already found great application for the two different filters. The sharp roll-off filter I'm finding very desirable for a lot of the compressed / limited recordings I listen to (which, to be honest, is basically every non-progressive metal band I listen to other than Necrophagist) -- it definitely reduces some of the "muddiness" from the recording. The short delay sharp roll-off filter has presented itself as more desirable for acoustic recordings (as is stated), though I found it nice for softer recordings in general. Even the acoustics in Rodrigo y Gabriela's self-titled album, which has lots of fast guitar parts (in the sense of he plays quickly and quick attack, almost 0 sustain, quick decay, 0 release) benefited. Obviously this is the subjective part, but I am very happy with how it is able to reproduce the music.
It's small (only slightly larger than the iPod itself), portable, and comes with a carrying case that gives you easy-enough access to the iPod. I did notice it starting to get a little hot when I had it in my coat pocket for about an hour, so I'd generally recommend leaving it at least partially in open air when possible.
If you want something you can also use as a desktop DAC / amp combo, perhaps you should look into the iQube or the CLAS. I don't recall whether these have additional line inputs, so perhaps they only work with iDevices as well. If I wasn't going to get the iNova when their new line comes out this year, I think I would have returned the HP-P1 and gone for something else. It outputs great sound, but it's a little frustrating that it's not portable in the sense of sharing its functionality between devices.
HTH!
--dho
