[DynaMike]

Hi,

I´m puzzled concerning my home setup.

Problem is that I´d like to drive Grado RS-2s / GS1000s using an OTL amp (WooAudio WA2) plus LossLess media coming from my Mac.
I prefer USB as interconnect between the DAC & Mac - so which DAC would be a good match?

So - Open to any suggestions & price range would be up to 700 USD (has to be worth it).

Second opinion needed in this matter:
I got advised that a very warm & lush combo could be a NOS DAC (because of the the OTL & Grados). If I´d went that path I only see two options:

EBay Link to Valab NOS DAC & MoodLab DICE

So - any suggestions towards the NOS DACs ?


Cheers & thanks in advance for the help!

Micha

 

[Kees]

I never heard this combination, but OTL amps generally are not good at delivering a lot of current. Grado headphones, being low impedance, need a lot of current. Usually not a very good combination. What made you choose this specific amp?

 

[DynaMike]

Hi Kees,

as you know - RSA or a DIYed Millet / Bijou / M^3 was on my radar but as always in life you stumble over different options...

Quiete a few guys around here use this rather "strange" combo - and when auditioned today (was just 40 mls away) it worked remarkably well...

Had enough power & control - stage was wide & overall a lush & warm sound. Goosebumps included.

But now - what DAC to choose for an OTL connected to a computer?

Cheers

Micha

 

[Uncle Erik]

Have you compared an OTL to a transformer-coupled tube amp? You might be surprised at the difference. Having a genuine damping factor considerably tightens the performance.

 

[DynaMike]

Hi Eric,

there´s not many guys for around here who buy specific headphone amps (& even less with tubes) but I had a nice session with a RSA Raptor which remembered to be less "life staged" & more "sterile" with my RS-2s.

More bass? Yes - Tighter? Perhaps too but also colder.

Please don´t forget that I´m a real NOOB compared to you guys - my impressions when trying the WA2 suited my music
& listening style very well.

And it´s bought anyways - and it´s getting a little help with a atching DAC.

Eric - any opinions on the NOS DACs?

Cheers

Micha