[supershine]

Hi. I'm planning to get EMP and new cans for it.
So which one has the best synergy with this amp? I've heard that Earmax amps can't handle K701s fully, is this right?
You can suggest some other options too.

I listen to all kinds of music. Jazz, krautrock, ambient, electronica, postrock/metal, grunge etc. .. mainly peaceful music, but also some heavier.

My music source is Esi Juli@ (FLAC).

 

[synthmad]

I have EMP and EMP AE with several tube combinations to choose from, and all 3 of these phones. I find neither amp works well with K701 IMHO.

I think the 880 benefits most from tubes, but I prefer the 650 anyways.
Both these cans work well with EMP and AE for me.

I find the K701 is good from X-CANV3 and HR Max, which can drive it well.

 

[sacd lover]

I like the 650 best from the choices you listed .... but I like the 600 better than the 650 with most tube amps.

 

[supershine]

Thanks for your replies. At the moment i'm thinking of buying the HD650. Maybe i will try the beyers later.
But i ain't sure yet.

 

[fallen.angel]

I own both AKG701 and Beyerdynamic DT990 (2005 edition). DT990 does have a better synergy with my EarMax Pro and delivers a much fuller sound.

 

[edisonwu]

HD600 or DT990 (2005)

 

[QQQ]

Either 880 or 650, depends on a preference. 701 is not a good match technically.

 

[kooncm]

I have HD600, DT990(05 version) and K701. All sound good with EMP but K701's sound will get distorted when volume move past 1pm position. But I seldom listen at that level so it is ok for me.

 

[riffer]

You won't be able to crank the 880's with the Earmax Pro, but still a very good sound.

I have never owned the K701's, but if they are as difficult to drive as I have read, stay away. The Earmax Pro can't drive the 880 (600 Ohms) or D5000's to reasonably loud volume levels without distorting, so 701's may also be a problem.

The most suitable 'phones in my collection with the Earmax Pro are the easy-to-drive ATH-A900's. I have some ATH-AD900's on the way, so will try them as well.