Deployment Rig, suggestions

[Jamfan16]

With a 15-month deployment on the horizon starting in November, I'm looking at getting an amp and some headphones to take with me. I was wondering what you guys suggest for an amp. The main things I'm looking for are:

1. Size: I want to try and pack all of my electronic goodies into one big carry-on backpack. From what I've seen, the Headroom Desktop line looks to be as big as I'd go.
2. DAC: My laptop has both USB and mini-TOSLINK outputs, so I definitely want a DAC.
3. Price: Although I take great care of my equipment, who knows what will happen while I'm gone. $1000 is probably the top of my budget.
4. Durability: Crushing and or dropping is a big concern, as is sand. Lots and lots of sand.

I know I could just go for something like the Porta Corda MKIII USB and be done with it, but that's where I need your opinions. What would you guys do?

Also, I'd like some headphone input, as well. I currently have a pair of HD650's, but I will probably not take them since they're open (roommate factor). What's a durable pair of closed headphones? Would I be banned from Head-Fi for deploying with a set of Darth Beyers and putting them in harm's way?

 

[mrarroyo]

The Porta Corda is a fine sounding unit, very close to amps costing 2 to 2.5 times more. Having the USB Dac is a major plus. So yes I think you would be happy with such a set up. I have recently listened to the Equation RP21 with an MSRP of $150 and they sound fantastic. Other at the recent Tampa Mini Meet were very impressed as well. Good luck.

 

[Jamfan16]

Yeah, I figured that the Porta Corda was probably the 'prudent' way to go. Another option I hadn't considered would be to get both a Porta Corda and an iMod (and get full mileage out of the amp).

Too many options, not enough money!

 

[thekid22]

For headphones I'd strongly recommend the senn hd-25 1s. Not not SP. They sound great, and are virtually indestructible. Very solid, they isolate well, and are comfortable.

Thanks for your service to our country.

 

[AudioDwebe]

If I were going downrange and both durability and size were of concern, I'd probably go with either the Hornet or Tomahawk, along with some IEM's. You could easily put those in a Ziploc bag and keep the sand out. As for headphones, I would either go with an Ultrasound Proline 750 or the aforementioned Senn HD 25-1.

More importantly...regardless of what you choose, best of luck to you while you're there. Keep your head down and come back AS YOU ARE!

Thank you for your service.

Hoo-rah.

 

[velogreg]

Quote:

Originally Posted by AudioDwebe /img/forum/go_quote.gif If I were going downrange and both durability and size were of concern, I'd probably go with either the Hornet or Tomahawk, along with some IEM's. You could easily put those in a Ziploc bag and keep the sand out. As for headphones, I would either go with an Ultrasound Proline 750 or the aforementioned Senn HD 25-1. More importantly...regardless of what you choose, best of luck to you while you're there. Keep your head down and come back AS YOU ARE! Thank you for your service. Hoo-rah.

My two cents. I would reco the Ultimate Ears Super Fi 5s IEMS. If you can get used to sticking them in your ear they are very comfortable, have great dynamics and wont bother a roommate. I would also reco going to the for sale section here a HeadFi for a Hornet or the Headroom. Buying used for a deployment keeps your enjoyment up and your investment down in the event you trash things moving about or drop it.

Thank you for your service and sacrafice. Good luck and a safe return.