Hi, first post here.
I am in the process of ordering a DAC+Amp for my set of headphones: Sony F1 (12 ohm), Sony SA1000 (70 ohm) and HD700 (150 ohm).
I only use headphones, never speakers.
I am down to 4 choices: NFB11, O2+ODAC, Essence One and Essence STU.
NFB11 is my first option right now, but I have cons for all options:
NFB11: Power at Back, bright sound may not be good for open headphones which already suffer on bass.
02+ODAC: no optical input, poor power supply, designed for portability so maybe power limited compared to other options.
Essence One: Expensive, its 10 ohm should not be ideal for my 12 ohm Sony F1.
Essence STU: poor power supply, weaker amp, 10 ohm.
As I said, I am inclined to the NFB11, but the switch power at back is being difficult to swallow. The on/off button is my most used one. Is it only a problem to me?
Also does it warm as long as it is on, or does it warm only when receiving sound?
If I get confirmation that NFB11 will be the best to drive my specific phones, I will have to go for it.
On the other hand if the O2 is up to the job, I can consider it despite the no optical.
Thanks for any help.