[TooPoor]

 So I searched and didn't find anything on this AMP/DAC combo from Audio-GD. I decided to pull the trigger on one to pair with my HE-560 due to it's balanced output ratings and warmer Wolfson chip(s). On paper, it seems perfect for the HE-560. I fear the ES9018 will be too clinical/cold combined with the already neutral, detail-monster HE-560.
 
Who has/had one? What do you think of it? And, most importantly, if I'm missing a dedicated thread, point me in the right direction!
 
Here's some specs for those browsing:
 
Balanced Output:
9950MW /  25 ohm
5950MW /  50 ohm
 
Single Ended:
3300MW /  25 ohm
1650MW /  50 ohm
 
WM8741 chips
32bit / 384K Asynchronous Transfer  USB-32 Chip (I think it's actually 32bit/192K?)
 

 

[Kamakahah]

I've been eyeing this for a bit, as well as the 560. They are my intended purchase in the next few weeks, but I've been going back and forth on it. 
Pretty crazy you ended up with that exact combo. Glad to hear it's a solid choice. Did you choose any of the upgrades on the 10.33?

 

[TooPoor]

TXCO.

This is easily my favorite setup I've had. I haven't even tried my Enigma balanced yet. I will also be upgrading my balanced 560 cable to the new Draug2 series from Norne Audio. Very solid amp/DAC, very impressed.

 

[Kamakahah]

I guess I've been debating between the Wolfson vs Saber. Pretty sure I'd enjoy the dual Wolfson more, so I'm leaning in that direction.

HarleyZH in the 560 thread has the NFB-28. Looks like he might be picking up a 560 soon. It would be interesting for you two to compare notes.

 

[TooPoor]

It was up in the air for me at first between the ESS and WM. I went with the WM because I feel the 560 has great detail already and was worried they might end up sounding too clinical/cold with the ESS. Great thing about the 10.33 is that I can always add an ESS DAC if I wanted to and use the 10.33's amp section (I think? haha).
Here's a pic of my setup:

 

[xxxfbsxxx]

  It was up in the air for me at first between the ESS and WM. I went with the WM because I feel the 560 has great detail already and was worried they might end up sounding too clinical/cold with the ESS. Great thing about the 10.33 is that I can always add an ESS DAC if I wanted to and use the 10.33's amp section (I think? haha).
Here's a pic of my setup:

the headband/frame for the he500 is amazing, can you please tell me where did you get those?
Cheers

 

[TooPoor]

It's the stock headband on the new HE-560 (in pic). It is not a HE-500.

 

[xxxfbsxxx]

  It's the stock headband on the new HE-560 (in pic). It is not a HE-500.

ops, i mean the one on the left side, not the he560, so is it another headphone @__@ look similar

 

[TooPoor]

Any one else out there pick up one of these bad boys recently? I'm considering getting the HD800 and am very curious how the two will pair.

 

[gandhisfist]

just picked up one of these for my HE-560 and it sounds excellent.  Have the Lyr2 as well and to my surprise It has made a significant difference in subbass response.

 

[TooPoor]

Yes! Great combo. I'm now using my 10.33 with my HD800. Waiting on a balanced cable. The amp really wakes up in balanced mode.

 

[gandhisfist]

After having this integrated amp/dac for a week, I cannot say enough good things about it.  I really don't understand why Audio-GD isn't more popular or well known if this is the quality of their product.

 

[mrscotchguy]

I'm reviving this dead thread... apologies.

Just bought this used and will be shipped out to me soon. Does anyone have this paired with the HD800? I'm stoked to get my hands on it.

I guess I never looked into it enough, but I was under the impression that this was a preamp like the nfb28, there are no analogue inputs, correct?

 

[gandhisfist]

Yes it does have analog inputs. You can completely bypass the DAC and just use the amp.

 

[mrscotchguy]

Yes it does have analog inputs. You can completely bypass the DAC and just use the amp.

The pictures show only 'outputs', on the back. I'm more confused about the unmarked xlr slot...