Amp Recommendations for Focal Clear

[reznik6044]

Sorry if this has already been asked/answered. But I'm really struggling with what to do here...

I've got a new pair of Focal Clear on order and should be here in October. I currently have a Schiit Modius DAC and a THX 789 Amp. I've been reading that the 789 doesn't pair well with the Clear due to the harshness and overly clinical nature of the pairing. So I'm trying to figure out what would be a good balanced amp for the Clears that is around $500 USD.

It seems like most recommend a 'warmer' amp. I've never had a tube amp and i'm a little apprehensive, but not opposed to it.

I've seen great reviews on the Topping A90 - but this seems to also be a little clinical/harsh. The other options i'm considering are the Schiit: Jotunheim 2, Lyr 3 or Valhalla 2.

Anyone have any actual direct experience with any of these amps with the Clears or similar headphone? Is there another amp in this price range to look at? I think the Monolith Liquid Platinum would be good, but it's out of my price range.

Any help would be appreciated!!

 

[tesarpa]

First of all, I think there's no need to rush. First listen with gear you already have. Then, if you are not completely happy, try to arrange a demo, as blind purchase may be disappointing and costly. I tried several amps and finally the THX honesty found as the right choice for me.

 

[reznik6044]

First of all, I think there's no need to rush. First listen with gear you already have. Then, if you are not completely happy, try to arrange a demo, as blind purchase may be disappointing and costly. I tried several amps and finally the THX honesty found as the right choice for me.

I agree with your sentiment, so along those lines, I'm looking to try a 'warmer' amp. I have different setups with different headphones. I love the THX with my HD6XX and Sundara's. But I would like to hear what they sound like with a warmer amp as well... so i'd love to hear other's perspectives on this question.

I'm having a hard time figuring out the difference between the similarly priced Schiit amps.

 

[tesarpa]

For experiments, tube amp offers more flexibility, as you can roll tubes. Maybe also consider iFi, they are known for softer, warmer house sound, plus they have Xbass boosting switch.

 

[TheMiddleSky]

Should try everything with your set up first then decide later which part of sound you want to improve.

if blind buy is a must, I'd bet Singxer SA-1 as an all-round amp that sound neutral and still have some musicality left for toe tapping factor. Love the wide soundstage of this amp as well (definitely wider than topping A90).

 

[reznik6044]

if blind buy is a must

Where I live, I don't know any place to listen to any headphone gear. Everything in my entire stack (DAC, AMP, Headphones) has been entirely blind buy... that's why I have 5 headphones, 2xAMP and 3xDACs. But I don't mind too much, I like mixing and matching and trying different things out. I can also sell some stuff off, but nothing I have purchased so far has been too expensive.

But as I start to get more into this hobby and get more expensive gear, I'm trying to "get it right"...

 

[jonathan c]

Where I live, I don't know any place to listen to any headphone gear. Everything in my entire stack (DAC, AMP, Headphones) has been entirely blind buy... that's why I have 5 headphones, 2xAMP and 3xDACs. But I don't mind too much, I like mixing and matching and trying different things out. I can also sell some stuff off, but nothing I have purchased so far has been too expensive.

But as I start to get more into this hobby and get more expensive gear, I'm trying to "get it right"...

An hour+ drive could get you to Hanson Audio in Dayton, Ohio. [Hansonav.com]