[MikePio]

Hey guys,

I already searched around numerous threads looking for the best option to replace my LD MKIII amp. I want something that would be a considerable upgrade in sound quality, since the LD MKIII is great, but just doesn't have the juice... I was thinking of getting the EF-5 amplifier from Head-Direct, I heard the EF-1 is an awsome amp, and the EF-5 is an improvement that can pretty much drive anything! Any other amp recommendations in 500 dollar range would be great, since I would hate to make the commitment then regret it lol! My headphones- K701, DT 150's... Thanks, Cheers

 

[AmanGeorge]

For $500, without going the DIY route, I'd imagine the EF-5 is your best bet - go for it.

 

[somestranger26]

Quote:

Originally Posted by MikePio /img/forum/go_quote.gif Hey guys, I already searched around numerous threads looking for the best option to replace my LD MKIII amp. I want something that would be a considerable upgrade in sound quality, since the LD MKIII is great, but just doesn't have the juice... I was thinking of getting the EF-5 amplifier from Head-Direct, I heard the EF-1 is an awsome amp, and the EF-5 is an improvement that can pretty much drive anything! Any other amp recommendations in 500 dollar range would be great, since I would hate to make the commitment then regret it lol! My headphones- K701, DT 150's... Thanks, Cheers

If you want another tubes-only amp the TU-882 can deliver plenty of power at both high and low impedances: it can drive the HD800 or the HE-5 just fine. $450 after shipping is the price for the presoldered kit.

 

[MikePio]

Thanks for the fast reply guys, now considering I went the DIY route, what kind of quality amp could I purchase? Regarding the TU-882 how does this amp compare with the EF-5? Anyone have some good links to sites where I could possible see the different DIY amps available for roughly $500. I am still leaning toward the EF-5 but if the DIY gives me better audio performance I will go this route! My worst nightmare would be to get this new amp and not noticing a difference to the MKIII!!!! lol...

 

[jageur272]

Cavalli Audio is a great site if you want to DIY tube/tube hybrid headphone amps. You can make a SOHAII for around $300 with a fancy case and a nice transformer.

 

[tke398]

Musical Fidelity X-can V8 is in your price range. That's what I upgraded to after using the Little Dot MKIII for a year. Unfortunately, I don't have any listening experience with your phones so I can't tell you what you can expect. I heard its picky with some very high impedence phones.

Plenty of juice though.