[Oddworld]

Has anyone heard both the Schiit Valhalla and the Fiio E9?
 
I currently own the E9 and love it, but was wondering if anyone has heard both and could comment on the differences. I understand I'm asking to compare tube versus solid state, but my understanding is that the Valhalla isn't very "tuby"
 
I use the AKG K702s
 
Thanks for all your help!
 
-Oddworld

 

[KuKuBuKu]

I think a better comparison would be the Schiit Asgard. The FiiO is only 130 dollars.

 

[dscythe]

very interested in a comparison between the E9 and Asgard, if anyone has used both.

 

[Oddworld]

Yea, I really need a comparison. I'm really digging my Fiio E7 + E9. You'd have to really show a big improvement for me to upgrade

 

[kwkarth]

Based upon reviews, the E9 is a great sounding product for the money.  For driving most headphone it seems to be all the amplifier that anyone would need.
 
If your cans are some of the known power hungry critters like the current rash of planar magnetics, or AKG 701/2, etc. then while the Fiio on paper will do ok, it will run out of gas at about .5W or less when driving a 50 ohm load, common to many of the current planars.
 
Depending upon the type of music you listen to, and how loudly you listen, again the E9 may be all you ever need.  If you're going to be more demanding and want better performance from your orthos, something like the Asgard or Valhalla will provide more robust power.  The Asgard is preferred for orthos, and the Valhalla has been given good marks with the AKGs.

 

[genkisumo]

Sorry to revive/hijacking a old thread, but will this comparison be any different if it will be used for a pair of HD650? I am totally new to the audio scene and after a quick search, I found this so I didn't want to make a new thread. The genre of music that it will be mostly used for is r&b and hip hop.
 
Edit: I am referring to the E9 and the Asguard.