[hpandy]

Hi,
 
I have read many posts on this forum and others relating to this practice, and I cannot get my head around the risks and proper setup.
 
I have read concepts such as: noise, the taps putting out DC instead of AC, running resistors in series, having to use balanced connections for safety etc etc..
 
I do not have a clear understanding in my head of what is going on.
 
What dangers exist?
Can they all be prevented?
In what way does a speaker amp perform differently to a HP amp?
Exactly what parts are needed?
Can this all be done for less money than purchasing for example a Schiit Lyr?
 
I welcome laymans terms and technical explanations from those with an engineering background.  I really would love to get a clear and full understanding of this - my background is mathematics so please don't hold back if you think it may be too difficult to explain.
 
I currently only have an Arcam alpha 10 integrated amp, so I am assuming that I would need to purchase a less poweful amp?
 
Thanks for your help.

 

[hpandy]

bump

 

[hpandy]

cI still have this idea floating round in my head.  I am looking at the Can Opener, but I am not sure if it is safe.http://vinylflat.com/canopener.html.
 
I have 3 amps that I want to try this with:
 
arcam alpha 10
yamaha A2070
yamaha E800
 
Has anyone experimented with one of these amps?
 
I am interested in the headphone jack of the arcam, I can't find any information on how it is implemented.  I don't want to spend money on the can opener if it turns out it's exactly the same setup that exists inside the case.

 

[nick n]

might get more response in the Fullsized Amp Section found here http://www.head-fi.org/f/5/headphone-amps-full-size
 
Thanks for the Can Opener link.