[ematthews]

Looking at the Emotiva XDA-2 DAC. It says that it has Audio File grade headphone amp. Specs are
 
 

1. Headphone Amplifier Output
2. Output Power:
   1.9 VRMS max into 10 Ohms @ 
   < 0.02% THD (360 mW)
   2.25 VRMS max into 47 Ohms @ 
   < 0.015% THD (100 mW)
   2.25 VRMS max into 100 Ohms @ 
   < 0.01% THD (50 mW)
   2.25 VRMS max into 300 Ohms @ 
   < 0.01% THD (16 mW)
   2.25 VRMS max into 600 Ohms @ 
   < 0.01% THD (8 mW)
3. Signal to Noise Ratio:
   > 105 dB (ref full output)

 
I am hoping to get this and it would work for my Phones
Senn HD650
hIFIMAN HE400
Grado PS500
 
Here is the link to the Emotiva product page
http://shop.emotiva.com/collections/processors/products/xda2
 
 

 

[moonsurf]

I have xda-2.  It has a truly wonderful DAC, but only after swapping the cheap power cord with something reasonable.  It's headphone section isn't a slouch either, however I find it lacking in terms of pure power to drive phones.  I'm mainly using it with Beyer 770LE.  Although it gets very very loud, I still feel it's missing some driving power.  
 
Again, as a DAC/preamp, xda-2 is truly wonderful.. clear, organic and 3d.

 

[fabio-fi]

It comes with good features, but the headphone amp section seems weak (according to specs) people use it mainly as a dac. 

 

[blasjw]

XDA-2 headphone amp definitely doesn't sound as good as Schiit Asgard 2.

 

[ab_ba]

blasjw, I'd certainly like to hear more of your impressions about the XDA-2 compared to the Asgard 2. Which headphones, which types of music, and how would you describe the differences? I like the Emotiva's price point ($400) compared to a Schiit suite at $600. Thanks!

 

[blasjw]

Quote:

blasjw, I'd certainly like to hear more of your impressions about the XDA-2 compared to the Asgard 2. Which headphones, which types of music, and how would you describe the differences? I like the Emotiva's price point ($400) compared to a Schiit suite at $600. Thanks!

Sorry, I've been really busy with work and refurbishing first gen. PS3s on the side.  I finally got one with 3.55 F/W for SACD ripping to DSD.  

 
Also, I didn't finish putting my A2 back together after black anodizing the case.  I'll try to do a more in depth comparison between the XDA-2 & A2 when I have time.