External Amp for AK240

[drums12]

I'm currently using Etymotic ER4SR earphones with the Etymotic balanced cable. The sound is exceptional (although I'm considering some high quality IEMs with a stronger bass signature-but that's another thread). Unfortunately, I have congenital hearing impairment (about 30% loss in both ears), so I require higher volume than most. The internal amp drives the earphones fine, but leaves very little headroom for me.

I'm considering an external portable amp, but don't really know what would be compatible. Since the AK240 has internal DAC I probably only need an amp, not a dac/amp combo. That said I'm not opposed to a combo, especially if it has good EQ options. Any suggestions?

 

[PurpleAngel]

Budget?

 

[drums12]

Thanks for your response. I'm looking in the $200-300 range. $400-500 at most.

 

[PurpleAngel]

Thanks for your response. I'm looking in the $200-300 range. $400-500 at most.

For the money your willing to spend, you might be better off buy other headphones, like the Audio Technica ATH-ESW9, at 42-Ohms, should be easier for the AK240 to drive them, so less need for add-on head amp.
Lots of used ($150+) ones on eBay.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/audio-technica-on-ear-headphone-ATH-EW9-Used/224159982602?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Audio-Technica-ATH-EW9-Headphones-Portable-Wooden/393066172566?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Audio-Technica-Portable-Headphones-Ath-Esw9/203296487941?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649
If your more into fiesta type sound, Soundmagic HP151 (great price on used)
https://www.ebay.com/itm/SoundMAGIC...276591?hash=item5247c2f22f:g:i58AAOSw0zRgLZ3L

 

[drums12]

Any recommendations for in ear phones that would be easier to drive? I was considering Shure SE535

 

[PurpleAngel]

Any recommendations for in ear phones that would be easier to drive? I was considering Shure SE535

I'm just not well informed on in-ear stuff.

 

[drums12]

No worries. I appreciate the help.

 

[jmwant]

Do you want to use the dap as transport? Or there's a line out option ?
In both cases , I'd suggest xDuoo XD 05 Bal.