[kentamcolin]

O.K., after starting with lower end Senn's plugged into the headphone jack on a 10 year old CDP 4 months ago, I'm now trying to get to my be all and end all system after finding you guys. I've got Senn HD600/Cardas from Adcom GCD750 source, Homegrown silver IC and ASL MG Head/OTL amp with NOS tubes. I quite content with the ASL, but figure it's probably the weak link here. I'm considering RKV or finding a Wheatfield HA-2, which is probably my preference right now. Lets keep the budget to around $800. Surely I can rap this up for that, what do you think?

 

[kpfeifle]

I think you should be the first on this forum to purchase a Skorpion HV-1 OTL and then post a long review

 

[kentamcolin]

Actually I took a look at that one this morning. It looks awesome, but I was a bit concerned about the review I read that said it ran out of steam with HD600's at higher listening levels. It would be fun to be the first here to give it a try though.

 

[kpfeifle]

I hear you

, I did see that in the review and agree. It is nice looking tho... What are your plans for the MG Head after you purchase the new amp? I might be interested if you are planning on selling.

 

[john_jcb]

If you can hold off for a few months until Spring there is a Chicago meeting planned where you would have the opportunity to audition a number of amps. Your upgrade is a considerable investment and it would be good to hear before you buy. At this point though there is no lineup of amps that will be there.

 

[kentamcolin]

Thanks for the tip on the Chicago meeting, I'll keep a lookout. I don't mind waiting a bit to be sure of a wise choice. After buying a new amp, I would certainly sell my HG Head, and would post it here. I have several very nice NOS tubes to go with it. I'm leaning toward the Wheatfield because I have heard (read) great things about it. Anyone tried the HA-2 against the RKV?

 

[markl]

Take a look at the Earmax Pro. Great with the HD600. Most "tubey"-sounding tube headphone amp out there.

Mark

 

[Tuberoller]

If the ASL Twinhead has had the bugs worked out I give it the nod.It is the best sounding to my ears.I own a Wheatfield HA-2 and have auditioned the RKV and Earmax pro.I have owned a few other tube amps and have had all the Cary amps on hand as well.The Twinhead is closely trailed by the HA-2 but some QC problems prevented me from keeping one for my personal use.

I will most likely have some of the Cary amps as well as a Twinhead if I can get one in working condition.I will of course have both of the Wheatfields and there may be an RKV and possibly a MG Head as well.Most of these amps made an apperance at the last meet.I am working right now to make the Chicago Spring meet the best yet.You won't be dissapointed.

 

[taoster]

The twinhead is one beautiful amp and is probably the best commerical tube amp available now. If you got the cash this is it!! If youre looking for the tube sound the Earmax pro is excellent and again is one of the best looking tube amp on the market

 

[ServinginEcuador]

Ken,

I got an RKV coming in the mail and would be glad to post a review with my Sony cans and let you know how it sounds after I get it and get it hooked up in my system!! It should be quite an awesome amp and many people have stated how well they like theirs!!!

You should be able to pick one up used for less than your budget quite easily as they sell for about $800 used here and on Audiogon every now and again.