[Kees]

Quote:

Originally Posted by fkclo /img/forum/go_quote.gif Thanks so much Kees. I was almost pulling the trigger an hour ago. (also ordering a passive preamp SA2 to get a better deal). Looks like the best way forward is to wait until Arn finds a way to cope with the low impedance / high sensitivity cans. Not sure if this is something to do with the 220V a.c. you are using ? F. Lo

Seems not likely, but it is not impossible. I can't test that because I have no other amp running on 12v AC.

 

[fkclo]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kees /img/forum/go_quote.gif Seems not likely, but it is not impossible. I can't test that because I have no other amp running on 12v AC.

Do you use the 12V AC supply that comes with the amp, or you source your own ? Arn told me that his power supply only works for 110 VAC.

F. Lo

 

[Kees]

Quote:

Originally Posted by fkclo /img/forum/go_quote.gif Do you use the 12V AC supply that comes with the amp, or you source your own ? Arn told me that his power supply only works for 110 VAC. F. Lo

I bought my own, from a reputable local electronics supplier (I took the amp with me to be sure).
Build quality is top notch. I'm sure you will be pleased with your passive pre-amp. I love the way the stepped attenuator works, very subtle in the low volumes.
I am thinking to ask him if he could also make switch boxes. I have one source and 4 or 5 amps in my PC setup now...

 

[thrillmetoo]

Quote:

Originally Posted by olblueyez /img/forum/go_quote.gif I dont see any opamps do you?

It's the small (SMD) part right behind the headphone jack socket

 

[Kees]

Quote:

Originally Posted by triode12 /img/forum/go_quote.gif Also is it a discrete or an opamp based amp?

I asked Arn and this whas his reply:
Quote:

Well Kees, the answer is yes, but this is not your usual opamp. This none sources more than 300mA per channel if demanded. I do, however, hesitate to tell much more as there are often such prejudiced viewpoint about opamps, other than to say that some things were done in the power supply section which NOBODY else has done.

 

[triode12]

Thanks for the update Kees.

 

[olblueyez]

Quote:

Originally Posted by thrillmetoo /img/forum/go_quote.gif It's the small (SMD) part right behind the headphone jack socket

You are so right! So its a 550 dollar amp with a single opamp used in the output stage? The stepper with the surface mount resistors is nice though.

 

[lara veronin]

What's the point of a transformer inside the case when there is already a transformer inside the triad wall wart?

There should have been an iec inlet.

I'm guessing the opamp is probably the ad8397...

2 channel oh so simple single integrated opamp/buffer device and their very nice stepped pot for 550..

I guess after consulting the "audio experts/enthusiasts"

they figured they needed to add something to sweeten the deal. How about a nice r-core transformer and some very nice looking connectors that we all like?

Not trying to be a tart here. Just my critical 2 cents.

 

[Kees]

Quote:

Originally Posted by lara veronin /img/forum/go_quote.gif Not trying to be a tart here. Just my critical 2 cents.

You have a talent, you don't need to try.

 

[WilCox]

Any updates on the Goldpoint Headphone Pro?

 

[Kees]

Quote:

Originally Posted by WilCox /img/forum/go_quote.gif Any updates on the Goldpoint Headphone Pro?

I had some remarks about the amp, in particular about the noise floor, and Arn (Goldpoint, designer/builder of the amp) told me he's working on an improvement.
It would take a few weeks. Should be about ready any moment now.

 

[WilCox]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kees /img/forum/go_quote.gif I had some remarks about the amp, in particular about the noise floor, and Arn (Goldpoint, designer/builder of the amp) told me he's working on an improvement. It would take a few weeks. Should be about ready any moment now.

Thanks! Looking forward to your findings on the improved design.

 

[Kees]

Update:
I got an e-mail from Arn:
Quote:

Just today I have "blessed" the updated circuit and PC board. I will building the new version this week and shipping them out. When you get yours, feel free to A-B compare, if you wish, but send the old one back, OK? What was changed: - Raised the power supply voltage (gave more headroom). - Added heat sink - NOW you can run 12 ohm (and lower) headphones too! - Increased to overall gain setting. "Nice touches to an already excellent headphone amp."

I'll give an update as soon as I get it.

 

[Kees]

I got some inquiries via PM so I think a little update may be in order.
I have been expecting the improved Headphone Pro any day for a couple of weeks now....

But the one I have I like very much indeed. Highs have been getting more musical with burn-in (they could be a bit piercing at higher volumes in the beginning).
It is the most detailed amp I have heard so far I think. I like it so much that I sold my Corda Prehead, it beats it hands down in musicality. Bass goes very low, but is not overpowering ( I can hear a clear 20 Hz note through my PRO900 from it and a discernable 15 Hz...).
I am listening to some Pink Floyd with my new W11JPN plugged in now and totally enjoying the music.
It has been a very good companion for my PRO900 too: it especially provides good and detailed bass.
Hoping to get the new unit soon....

 

[WilCox]

Thanks for the update! The fact that you find it better than the PreHead is very encouraging. My PreHead has been a long-time reference and benchmark. I look forward to hearing the Goldpoint. (pulls out credit card and begins searching for Goldpoint phone number)