[matthewh133]

Looking for some recommendations for tube amps for the HD650. What are your thoughts on best pairings? I was considering the WA6 with a princess tube swap, any reason this would be a bad idea?

 

[PurpleAngel]

I've heard positive reviews on the Bottlehead Crack tube amp.

 

[networkn]

Definitely can recommend Bottlehead Crack Tube Amp.

 

[HiFiHawaii808]

I've heard positive reviews on the Bottlehead Crack tube amp.

I own a Bottlehead Crack and can verify that it is a match made in heaven.

 

[jonathan c]

Looking for some recommendations for tube amps for the HD650. What are your thoughts on best pairings? I was considering the WA6 with a princess tube swap, any reason this would be a bad idea?

With the high stated impedance of the HD650, the OTL (output transformer less) Woo Audio WA3 would be preferable (and secondhand since it is discontinued ). In lieu of the WA3, the Bottlehead Crack 1.1 (with ‘speedball’) gets my hearty recommendation.

 

[matthewh133]

Appreciate the input guys. Unfortunately I'm a sucker for aesthetics and the Bottlehead just doesn't match my office (color of the wood is off). The black of the Woos is much better. Anyone using the WA6 or WA6 SE with HD650s and think it's a good match?

 

[CJG888]

Have a look at White Bird Amplification.

My Tzar 6C41C should ship next week.

I will be using it to drive HD600s rather than 650s, though.

 

[-Darkstar-]

I've had good results with my Schiit Valhalla and my Icon HP8 Mk2 with higher impedance cans.

 

[HiFiHawaii808]

Appreciate the input guys. Unfortunately I'm a sucker for aesthetics and the Bottlehead just doesn't match my office (color of the wood is off). The black of the Woos is much better. Anyone using the WA6 or WA6 SE with HD650s and think it's a good match?

I don't know. This looks pretty darn good

 

[CJG888]

How about this?

 

[matthewh133]

I don't know. This looks pretty darn good

I do like the black a lot more than the other woods I've seen around.

 

[HiFiHawaii808]

Appreciate the input guys. Unfortunately I'm a sucker for aesthetics and the Bottlehead just doesn't match my office (color of the wood is off). The black of the Woos is much better. Anyone using the WA6 or WA6 SE with HD650s and think it's a good match?

Well, it seems you've made up your mind already. When you get it, let us know how well the pairing works.

 

[matthewh133]

Well, it seems you've made up your mind already. When you get it, let us know how well the pairing works.

Not completely, I just know the WA6 SE is up my alley in terms of the aesthetic side, I'm sure there's other options out there that fit the bill with that and pair well

 

[CJG888]

 

[UMN]

I run a WA6 first generation with a Drop hd6xx which is effectively an hd650. It’s very dynamic with good sound stage. My tube set is mallard cv593 rectifier and sylvania fat bottle 6fd7 clear tops. I cannot compare it to the wa3.