[MasterKuni]

Hello all,
 
I own a pair of HE-500s I'm very happy with, but the receiver I've been using as my amp appears to be on its last legs.  What are some good suggestions for a DAC/headphone amp combo capable of powering these for under $300 or so (used or new)?  If possible, I'd like the DAC to support optical input.

 

[nehcrow]

If you live in US, Emotiva mini-x ($200-ish) for the amp, Schiit Modi ($99) - done. You'll need some specialized cables to hook it up though (1/4" female TRS to 4 banana plugs). 

 

[cel4145]

You might want to research and ask questions in this thread: http://www.head-fi.org/t/551345/hifiman-he-500-he-as-in-high-end-proving-to-be-an-enjoyable-experience-in-listening. Amost 14K posts about the HE-500s