[dkaplan74]

Looking for the best sounding amp for use with the Shure SE530 and iPhone/ipod combination. I am assuming portable would be the way to go, but would be open to non-portable as well. Thanks.

 

[jc9394]

Pico, Mustang, or D10

SE530 really does not need an amp, your iPhone can drive it fine. Amp will increase SQ but not by much.

 

[twylight]

dont bother is my opinion - i didnt on my last trip

 

[dkaplan74]

So you are saying there isn't much improvement to be made? I thought there were certain amps designed for in ear headphones.

 

[jc9394]

There are improvement but the additional 5-10% improvement will cost you about $200 plus. I only use the amp when I'm in my office and did not use it much taking the public transportation.

 

[dkaplan74]

What about with something like the iqube or sr-71a?

 

[h.rav]

I would rather not use an amp for portable setup. I'll use my Pico at the office, basically whenever & wherever I am using my notebook.

 

[jc9394]

Quote:

Originally Posted by dkaplan74 /img/forum/go_quote.gif What about with something like the iqube or sr-71a?

I don't have an iqube, so I can not comment on it. I do own a SR-71A and as I said, the difference is about 5-10% improvement. Same thing with my Mustang. But if I use a full size headphone, it does make a big difference but still no comparison to a full size amp (portable vs desktop amp).

I use iPhone 3G>LOD>Mustang/Blackbird>Westone 3. If I use my ESW10JPN instead of Weston 3, the improvement is probable around 25% better. Better soundstage, tighter and well controlled bass and out of this world mids.

For IEM, I will pass on the amp most of the time unless I know I will be sitting down for more than couple hours.

 

[twylight]

If you want a portable amp, go buy one! I have one - I just dont think it does much and I dont bother anymore. (for shure e530 iems off a 2g ipod) I have LODs and all that stuff too.

 

[mbd2884]

Don't bother, just run it out of your DAP and enjoy! Use the money for new desktop amp or new headphones or new MUSIC!

 

[shirtaspants]

I have the SE530, an iPod Touch, and a Pico. I agree with everyone else here, amping the iPod/iPhone just isn't worth it. Enjoy what you have!

The Pico is a damn good source out of a computer, though, if you ever have a need for that.