Help me pick an amp

[dk123]

I am planning to buy a pair of AKG K501 and I'm trying to choose an amp. Portability is not of primary importance, although I wouldn't mind if it was portable, and I'm hoping to spend under $300 or so. The three I have been thinking about are Gilmore Lite, M3, and the Portaphile, with the DC option.

I'm wondering which of these amps would be the best with the AKG, and also which would be the most versatile, since I'm planning to use it with a pair of Grado SR60, which I will probably be upgrading to a SR225 at some point. I also may want to purchase a pair of DT880 or HD600.

I have read that the M3 is better than the Gilmore for the AKGs, but it seems like the Gilmore is very good for most headphones, from what I have read.

Also, if someone could clarify for me the difference in performance I would be getting between the M3 budget and M3 home, I would appreciate it, since the M3 home is more than I want to spend.

The Portaphile looks nice, and I know it has been praised alot, but is it in the same classs as the Gilmore or M3 in terms of sound quality?

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[PinkFloyd]

I haven't heard any of the three amps on your shortlist but (from what others have said) the Gilmore Lite is more than up for the job.

Also consider the MF X-Can V2 or GSP Solo they both bring the best out of the K-501.... My favourite combo was K-501 / X-can V2 running Mullard NOS 6922's....... absolute synergy on a stick. The Solo is more of a "grab you by the balls" ride and it doesn't come cheap for what it is but it does manage to control the K-501 very well.

IMO the best combo is a Valve amp / K-501......... certainly don't expect K-501 to perform their best with a budget SS amp..... If you can pick up a secondhand V2 you'll be over the moon...... the synergy is spot on.

Pinkie.

 

[dk123]

Quote:

Originally Posted by PinkFloyd I haven't heard any of the three amps on your shortlist but (from what others have said) the Gilmore Lite is more than up for the job. Also consider the MF X-Can V2 or GSP Solo they both bring the best out of the K-501.... My favourite combo was K-501 / X-can V2 running Mullard NOS 6922's....... absolute synergy on a stick. The Solo is more of a "grab you by the balls" ride and it doesn't come cheap for what it is but it does manage to control the K-501 very well. IMO the best combo is a Valve amp / K-501......... certainly don't expect K-501 to perform their best with a budget SS amp..... If you can pick up a secondhand V2 you'll be over the moon...... the synergy is spot on. Pinkie.

How is the X-Can, V3? I saw one recently at a used audio store in my area, and I think it was close to my price range. My concern with that is that it would not be that best match for the Grados which I plan to continue to use.