[Strider99]

I'm looking for upgrade from O2 amp. But, since there are too many positive comments about O2, it's hard to find which amp actually can be upgrade from O2.
 
I think of $200-300 SS amp, maybe Asgard2, but not sure. Do you have any recommend?

 

[gtb123]

I am currently in the same situation as you, but looking at Lyr now. I think better wait for somebody more experienced to give suggestions.

 

[HPiper]

It would help to state which headphones you are going to be using and what types of music.

 

[HamilcarBarca]

Quote:

I'm looking for upgrade from O2 amp. But, since there are too many positive comments about O2, it's hard to find which amp actually can be upgrade from O2.
 
I think of $200-300 SS amp, maybe Asgard2, but not sure. Do you have any recommend?

 
The O2 is a neutral amplifier, so what improvements do you want in an upgrade? Unless you're looking for that warm, tube-sound, or some other form of non-neutral sound, spending $300 or $30,000 won't buy anything with less audible distortion.

 

[Strider99]

Quote:

It would help to state which headphones you are going to be using and what types of music.

 
Cans are Q701 and HD650. My favorite music is rock, but I enjoy almost all genres.
 
 

 
The O2 is a neutral amplifier, so what improvements do you want in an upgrade? Unless you're looking for that warm, tube-sound, or some other form of non-neutral sound, spending $300 or $30,000 won't buy anything with less audible distortion.
 

 
I prefer neutral sound to warm. O2 is a really nice neutral amplifer, but I'm not sure if O2 is the best neutral amplifier.
 
*edit
I mean, the best in terms of sound resolution, soundstage, etc.

 

[HamilcarBarca]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strider99 /img/forum/go_quote.gif
 
I prefer neutral sound to warm. O2 is a really nice neutral amplifer, but I'm not sure if O2 is the best neutral amplifier.
 
*edit
I mean, the best in terms of sound resolution, soundstage, etc.

 
All neutral amplifiers have the same resolution, soundstage, etc. That's what neutral means: They amplify the input without distorting the sound. They may and do differ on inputs, outputs, power, size, convenience and other things.
 
While I'm a fan of the O2, there are many other fine, neutral amplifiers. None of them sound better than the others (assuming neutral is what the listener wants.)

 

[HPiper]

Given your budget and the fact you own a HD650 phone, have to say look at a Bottlehead Crack. A lot of people say that is the best amp for the 650 at any price period. Not solid state and it is a kit, but if you really want the best you can get for $300, that is going to be close.

 

[gtb123]

I know Bottlehead Crack is very popular among HD650 users, but what about with K701? Does it synergize well with it?

 

[HPiper]

Quote:

I know Bottlehead Crack is very popular among HD650 users, but what about with K701? Does it synergize well with it?

Funny you should say that, I don't know bout the 701 but I was just on their website the other day and someone had posted that it sounded really good on their K501. I don't know what the differences are between the 501 and 701 but at least one person liked it with their AKG..