I've been having problem with logging in to Tidal for the last few hours. I contacted support and that's a response.

I bough a Benchmark HPA4 amp about a month ago. I was also thinking about upgrading my DAC (I've been using a Chord 2Qute for the last 5 years.) I asked Rory from Benchmark the same question, just to be sure if the DAC3 B would be an upgrade for me and if maybe a new DAC4 was on the horizon...

Is it? I think it's just neutral and transparent. But I see, you've already made your choice. :thumbsup:

What about a Benchmark HPA4? I'm sure it will drive any low and high impedance headphones with no problem and you can also use your Pathos Aurium as a pre-amp with the HPA4. That's what I did. I have a Decware CSP3 tube amp which I've been using for the last 4 years mostly with a ZMF Atticus...

I understand. :thumbsup: Anyway, I'm picking it up tomorrow from my local store.

Thank you. Yes, I understand that the HPA4 as a pre is not going to give the additional amplification. I was just curious if there is any difference in sound between those two setups.

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Just one more question. Have you tried the opposite connection (HPA4 as a preamp)? If yes, have you noticed any difference? Thank you.

Got it! Thanks again.

Thanks. Have you noticed any differences in sound between listening to your tube amps separately and when using them as a preamps? Do you connect your Feliks Echo2 to the HPA4 with RCA to XLR cables using balanced stereo inputs or you just use a pair of RCA cables?

Is anyone running a tube preamp with a HPA4? I have a Decware CSP3 tube amp which I would like to connect to a solid state amp for harder to drive headphones.

The ZMF headphone stand is unique, functional, and featuring a handsome design. It really classes up my Atticus and it’s a great addition to my setup. Both my Atticus and a Decware tube amp base are made out of padauk wood. The ZMF Salire stand I have is made out of purpleheart wood but it...

I asked Zach the same question a few days ago. He said that the perforated pads will work on the Eikon/Atticus but they will "ruin the sound". That's it. :)

Thank you for your advise and help. I need to do more research. My current setup sounded great to me (Ipod-lighting to usb-usb heimdall 2-2qute powered by 2x uptone lps1 in series 5V+7V-Decware CSP3, and using ZMF Atticus HP.) But I would definitely prefer more that 128gb space source.

Everything is standing on my bedside table. Not too much space for more components. :)

I'm looking for something more portable. Actually, I've tried to use my Mac via usb but it sounded much worse than the IPod.

I've been using an IPod (128gb) as a transport connected to a 2qute and Decware CSP3 apm for about 2 years but there have been some issues playing music recently. The IPod randomly stops playing songs. I'm on the iOS 11 public beta now but there is no improvement. So, I'm thinking about buying...

@zach915m Zach, I just want to thank you for all your help and answers. He's really a standup guy. I'm just going to leave this here (Atticus, Decware CSP3, ZMF DHC OCC cable in silver platted copper)

Yes, I paid just $8.  $13 shipped is still a good price :) 

Take a look at my post.   http://www.head-fi.org/t/661411/fiio-x5-thread-info-updated-on-jan-17th-2014/8925

I just received a HS6 kit from miccastore.com.  It is not listed on their website and you can add it as an option only when buying the X5.  I've already had the X5 so I asked them if they could sell to me just the HS 6 kit.  They told me to buy the 8 of the $1 Special order payment units.  I did...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QfhDOylzE4

I have about 10 albums in .dsf format and the X5 plays them with no problem.

    Thanks.  I'm waiting for a Decware CSP3 OTL amp but I need also something more portable.model C