[DemonicLemming]

I don't think one really needs to ding the $1k price point before good tube amps can be found.  Top-flight reference level?  Maybe not, but for the normal person?  Plenty of options.
Quote:

Please read the warnings given by Uncle Erik and others re any tube amp costing less than a thousand dollars. I'd rather spend that $60 on beer.

A decent RCA-mini converter shouldn't adversely affect SQ in the setup you're looking at.  Just make sure it's not a ragged old re-spliced cable, and you should be fine.
 
Quote:

Awesome, I already have one of those lying around! I read somewhere that RCA to 3.55mm diminishes SQ, though, is there any truth to that? Well, either way, it looks like it's the most promising set-up, and fits my needs. Thanks guys, I appreciate the help!

 

 

[Keeper40]

So much info on the threads...appreciate it!

 

[Philiiiiipe]

Yeah man, I joined JUST to post this question, and was totally surprised at the amount of help I was getting, and how fast I was getting answers. You guys are awesome here.

 

[kiteki]

There's a japanese headphone amp AND speaker amp in one for only $50 I think that's pretty neat, it's not Hi-Fi but it's better than the $60 tube amps from ebay, I've tried those as well.
 
Apart from DIY I think the Scythe is the best sub-$60 Headphone amp, and it powers speakers too so you can throw away your logitech's. =)

 

[Tilpo]

A decent RCA-mini converter shouldn't adversely affect SQ in the setup you're looking at.  Just make sure it's not a ragged old re-spliced cable, and you should be fine.
 

It's just a cable, there is no actual active conversion, so the only degradation in sound will be through the wire.
However I would be very surprised if this decrease in sound quality is even audible. In fact I used one of those myself and did some testing, and I assure I could hear absolutely no difference at all.

 

[rymd]

For under $200, nothing better than a CKKIII. There are some used ones going for an incredible $180 on the for sale forums now. 

 

[naurispunk]

These kinds of threads really need a poll. Well actually the ones that answer this question not ask. Anyway, I know this is not helpful in any way to you. Just a random thought. Sorry about that

 

[kiteki]

What's CK KIIIIII, a new Calvin Klein fragrance?