Maxvla
Headphoneus Supremus
- Joined
- Dec 26, 2002
- Posts
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Haven't ever used it with the unbalanced output. I'll give it a try.
Hows the SE vs balanced outputs with the HD800?
Your BHA1 and HD800 pairing looks like a perfect match. Every time I see those HD800 I want one in that same color scheme.
The T1s sound really, no I mean really bad out the SE output. It sounds tons better out the balanced output. I don't know what they did to that SE output but - it's not good. it's a shame because everything else on the amp is "GREAT" IMO.
I had a similar experience at RMAF when I tried the K701 balanced vs. single-ended on the BHA-1. I know the K701 seems to have fallen out of favor here on Head-Fi, but I have to say that that combo sounded great -- very alive and dynamic on the balanced outputs. However, on the single-ended output the K701 just sounded flat and lifeless. Very surprising difference, and unfortunate, as you said.
Could you please comment on how the T1 sounded with the BHA-1, maybe compared to some other amps? I didn't get a chance to try the T1 on the BHA-1, and I'm curious as to how the Bryston handled a 600-ohm headphone.
At the Dallas meet yesterday I had 9 people try both amps with the Gungnir and HD800 giving each amp a fair shake not hinting at any bias beforehand unless they had read this review before the meet.
2 preferred the Mjolnir outright.
1 preferred the BHA-1 but would choose the Mjolnir for the price difference.
5 preferred the BHA-1 outright.
1 preferred the BHA-1 but thought the price difference was too close to call.
He's clinging to that balance control. Hooster, you know it's ok to admit you are wrong sometimes.
Balanced control is useful if you are listening to an old recordings with unbalanced left and right channel level or when you have unbalanced hearing between your left and right ears. Some amps manufacturer have different approach like implementing different volume control for left and right channel (Lamm Audio) or separate left and right input level like Cary Audio.
Why complain if it's sounds good or if haven't heard it!
Just my two cents!
There is a reason why "some manufacturers" have a different volume control for the left and right channel. The most common one is to reap the real benefits of dual mono construction. If you think a high end manufacturer like Lamm would make a preamplifier with a volume pot and an un-defeatable balance control you should think again. It aint going to happen because it is too much of a compromise.
A balanced pot is no big deal for a $1295 amp. Like other headfiers here, I trust my ears and happy about my current amps and the way Bryston designed it. Where is the compromise if it sounds good and if there is no audible left and right channel crosstalk.