Good Portable Amp for Grado GR8?
Aug 24, 2013 at 1:25 PM Thread Starter Post #1 of 10

sh2902

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I am thinking of buying a GR8, but I listen to my music out of my laptop and my IPhone 5. I doubt they will be powerful enough to get through 120 ohms of impedance. I am looking at getting a Fiio E11 to go with the GR8. Are there any other recommendations for a portable amp? Also, feel free to recommend another IEM in the 250-350 range. I'm looking for something slightly bass forward but nothing boomy. Good vocals are also important. Thanks for any feedback.
 
Aug 24, 2013 at 6:21 PM Post #3 of 10
I have a Fiio E07 and it's a great little amp. If you're looking at the E11 but are concerned about driving your GR8s, you might look at the E12 as it has a lot more power. Plus, I think it looks nicer.
 
I just picked up a set of Shure SE215s, and I think they have the properties you are looking for. If you have a little more to spend, look at the SE315 or SE535.
 
Aug 24, 2013 at 8:16 PM Post #4 of 10
Thank you dave. I've heard the 315, and I agree that it matches my taste. However the over-the-ear design is a complete dealbreaker for me. I just don't find the wire on my ear comfortable. I did look into the E12 but it is quite a bit more expensive, and I've read that the E11 can power up to around 300 ohms pretty nicely. Looks don't matter too much for me - it's going to be in my pocket anyways. Anyways, do you think I should step up? If so E12 or E07?
 
Aug 25, 2013 at 1:29 AM Post #6 of 10
The E11 can certainly drive 120 ohm IEMs. People are using it with even higher impedance full sized cans.

Meanwhile, the GR8s have a 118db sensitivity rating. That's very, very high, which makes them easy to drive to loud volumes.

As far as other IEMs, have you seen joker's extensive reviews? http://www.head-fi.org/t/478568/multi-iem-review-294-iems-compared-signature-acoustics-elements-c-12-added-08-22-13-p-753 Lots to choose from :D
 
Aug 25, 2013 at 1:30 AM Post #7 of 10
Hello!

First off, the FiiO E11 should have enough power to drive the GR8. The GR8 have high sensitivity so it shouldn't be much problem

How about the UE900? I find them awesome with vocals and the bass extends pretty deep and loud!

Hope it helps!
Billson :)
 
Aug 25, 2013 at 7:17 PM Post #8 of 10
Thank you all for the response. I have actually decided to get the Klipsch Image X10 after seeing how low-priced they are on Amazon. $130 for a well-regarded $350 list price set of IEMs is too good to pass up.
 
Aug 26, 2013 at 4:09 AM Post #10 of 10
Quote:
Thank you all for the response. I have actually decided to get the Klipsch Image X10 after seeing how low-priced they are on Amazon. $130 for a well-regarded $350 list price set of IEMs is too good to pass up.

SWEET DEAL! I'm guessing they wanted to clear it fast or something to make space for the coming x4i and x11i xD
 
congrats!
Billson :)
 

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