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There is a thread but it's hard to find clear suggestions honestly. Also the OP of that thread has a price limit which I am willing to go over by quite a bit. So I'm looking for some clear suggestions in a higher price range - still portable of course. Also am unclear whether i need an amp AND...

Has anyone found a portable amp that can really power the Mad Dogs well? Going to be using mostly with iPhone 5 but willing to make the switch to iPod classic if necessary. Assuming I'll also need and LOD and maybe a DAC? I'm not too sure. Also a side not, I'm not too sure of the difference...

Further I have an iPhone 5 to use but could make the switch to an iPod classic if necessary. And I'm going to go ahead and say the budget can be stretched to 500 also if necessary. 

I'm pretty new to the actual audiophile scene but have always considered myself a very conscious music listener. I am after my first "HiFi" setup. I listen to music mainly through my Macbook and iPhone. Primarily phone though. I have looked into the ATH-M50's, ATH A900X's, WS99's and a few...