[quikgp]

So, the more research I do, the more I get lost with this decision. Maybe I'm just putting too much thought into this. But I would appreciate any help and input that anyone can give.

So my quest is fairly simple. Find a headphone amp

My decision is far from simple.

here is my criteria and thoughts:
- desktop amp
- around $200
- pre-amp feature is nice but not needed
- intergrated DAC is nice but not need
- I like the solid state clarity and that you dont have to replace tubes
- I like the sound of tubes as well, and we all know the tubes are fun! (but expensive)
- used or new
- my source will either be a CD player (with DAC built in) or a computer (which is hooked up to a reciever with a pre-out)

The ones I'm looking at:
-gilmore lite
-little dot MK II, III, IV or V
-meier headfive
-audio fidelity x-can
-zero DAC+amp

Can anyone recommend any one of these over the rest? maybe rank them in terms of quality of output?

OH and the headphones it will be driving:
-senn 580
-denon D2000
-Grado SR80i

and more to come!

 

[welchie]

I just got the D2000's with a HiFiMAN EF 2 tube amp ( $189.00 at ALO Audio ). I've got it hooked to my macbook pro and listening to lossless files. It sounds real good to me - rich, full, nice base, nice detail. Thx.

 

[atothex]

Read just a little bit more, and one of your amp choices should clearly stand out.

 

[XXII]

Quote:

Originally Posted by atothex /img/forum/go_quote.gif Read just a little bit more, and one of your amp choices should clearly stand out.

.. but you probabaly can't get that choice for $200...

 

[Zombie_X]

The X-Can sounds fantastic with Denons and Grado's. It has a good sounding DAC and is a very powerful amp to boot.

 

[koven]

EF2 is a great choice for a DAC/Amp combo under $200.