[xlEnt]

Hi i'm looking for an all in one desktop amp.
 
currently i have an emu 0404 usb plugged into my mac as a dac (usb, should i use optical instead?)
im looking to buy an amp to feed my grado 325i and some Energy Book shelf speakers (C100B)
would anyone recommend any of these amps
 
Topping TP21
Topping TP41
 
AudioEngine N22
 
I can't help but notice that the headphone out on the TP21 is an 1/8 input while the TP41 is using the 1/4, which makes me think the headphone amp in the TP41 is much better.
 
From my understanding the AudioEngine N22 headphone out is very similiar to a CMOY, which i believes works well with grades, but unfortunately this amp is the most expensive.
 
I do like the look of the Audio Engine N22, as this amp will be for my standing computer station, but i'm also super cheap so if the TP41 will do i'd much rather save a few bucks.
 
is the headphone out on the emu 0404usb better then any of these headphone ports?
 
I'm also open to buying things used or something great from a builder (m^3 with switching headphone jack?)

 

[cel4145]

I have the Indeed TA2021 t-amp--similar to the TP21. Excellent for use with speakers for desktop use.

Which Energy speakers do you have?

 

[xlEnt]

c100b nothing fancy just have them sitting around w/o a desktop amp
 
figure i could use a an amp for the grado 325i too

 

[cel4145]

Sorry. I have no idea how good the headphone amp is on the EMU 0404usb or the Topping amps. But those speakers will probably get very loud for desktop use with the TA2021 t-amp chipset.

The Maverick Audio TubeMagic A1 Amplifier would be another unit to look at in the same price range as the N22 and TP41. I have the TubeMagic D1 DAC/headphone amp in a setup in my house. It's been a good unit, but I have not heard the A1. Here are some discussion and review threads:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/500237/maverick-audio-tubemagic-a1-hybrid-amp-discussion-and-review-thread
http://www.head-fi.org/t/513019/review-maverick-audio-tubemagic-a1-integrated-amp-pre-amp-headphone-amp
http://www.head-fi.org/products/maverick-audio-tubemagic-a1

 

[waltjocketty]

TP41 is on sale right now at mcmelectronics.com
 
Use code WLCM10 for 10% off. This brings the price to $56. Can't beat that.