Best Grado SR-225 amp

[vze]

Hi I'm looking for an amp for a new pair of Grado SR-225s to be used with iPod / Home Stereo. I did realize when I bought them I would need an amp, so here I am; asking. Preferably looking for something a little more portable but if cost or sound is at stake then it doesn't matter. Looking for something around the $200 mark, which isn't much I know. I have read the posts on amps but want a more personal opinion. Thanks -

 

[HK_sends]

I can only tell you what I have used. I started listening to my 225s with a Cmoy Penguinamp and a portable CD Player. The Cmoy helped me break in the cans and really contributed to my appreciation of Grado headphones. There was good solid base and clear (bright?) highs. I then started using an XM4 modded with a 2227 opamp and that really brought out the sound (I played with bass boost and crossfade until I found the settings I liked). My latest amp is a Little Dot MK I and although I haven't tried it with my 225s, it makes my 325i's sing.

Each of those amps was well under $200 including shipping. They are working for me and might be a good starting point for you. Also, I am sure there are other amps that forum members could recommend at that price.

Hope this helps,
-HK sends

 

[gtp]

Quote:

Originally Posted by vze /img/forum/go_quote.gif Hi I'm looking for an amp for a new pair of Grado SR-225s to be used with iPod / Home Stereo. I did realize when I bought them I would need an amp, so here I am; asking. Preferably looking for something a little more portable but if cost or sound is at stake then it doesn't matter. Looking for something around the $200 mark, which isn't much I know. I have read the posts on amps but want a more personal opinion. Thanks -

Try a Mini^3 with AD8397. I had SR225s and my AD8397-based MisterX XP amp really made them rock. The Mini^3 is sort of an updated XP amp, but designed by HeadFi member AMB. You can order the Mini^3 from HeadFi members Thrice (Rockhopper Audio) or MisterX, or you can build one for yourself if you like DIY. They cost ~$115-125. The AD8397 opamp just does great things for Grados in my experience!

 

[darckhart]

can anyone recommend a dac/amp combo for these HPs also? Thanks.