Help with new Grado GS1000.

[kwilkins]

I recently got into listing to headsets and I’ve really got the bug. I purchased a pair of Shure se530s but found them to be too uncomfortable and returned them. I decided to try a set of larger headphones and got the Grado sr-60’s and I really liked the experience of the larger headset as opposed to the in ear type. So now I have a pair of Grado GS1000’s on the way.

I have a problem though, I’m completely new to headphones and have absolutely no idea what to do to get the best sound. I’ve converted all my CD’s into iTunes, they are in Apple Lossless format. I’m currently using my iPod (160GB Classic) with the headset but understand that a dedicated headphone amp would significantly improve the sound. I have the following questions that I hope someone can help out with.

What is a DAC and do I need one?

What headphone amp would you recommend for the Grado GS1000? I’d like to spend around $1,000, but could go up to $2,000 (or a bit higher) if there was a significant jump in quality.

How would the amp, and DAC if I need one, work with the iPod? Do I just plug the iPod into the amp and the Grados into the amp as well?

Would I get better sound if I ran the amp through my computer and played music from iTunes on the computer instead of using the iPod?


As I’m sure you can tell from my questions I am quite new to all of this and really don’t know much about the equipment. I really appreciate anyone who will take the time to help a new guy out.

Thanks,

Ken

 

[Killercrush]

Hi Ken ! Welcome to Head-Fi and sorry about your wallet !!!

''What is a DAC and do I need one?''

A DAC is a Digital to Analog Converter, it's essential for digital sound to be heard, you have one in your Ipod, in your computer, in your dvd player, etc.
You can use an external DAC to bypass the cheap one, say in your computer.
With the GS1000, you absolutely need a good source to hold things together.
Just try to read the dedicated source part of this forum.

''What headphone amp would you recommend for the Grado GS1000? I’d like to spend around $1,000, but could go up to $2,000 (or a bit higher) if there was a significant jump in quality.''

I think that in the price range you quoted, you just can't do better than the Eddie Current Zana Deux, if owning a tube amp doesn't bother you. Please note that I never heard the amp but it should sound excellent.

http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/e...nt2/zana2.html

Also, you might want to look into Ray Samuels Audio, Singlepower, Headamp, Rudistor, Meier Audio, amp's offerings.

''How would the amp, and DAC if I need one, work with the iPod? Do I just plug the iPod into the amp and the Grados into the amp as well?''

Just don't bother with the Ipod as your primary source with your GS1000, these cans need a far better source to shine. But if you'd like to use it, say for bedtime listening, you'll have to buy a line-out dock (Dock to RCA) to plug into your amp.

''Would I get better sound if I ran the amp through my computer and played music from iTunes on the computer instead of using the iPod?''

Sure, just make sure you have a coaxial out on your computer to connect to an external DAC or just buy a nice redbook (CD) player.

Feel free to ask more questions if you feel like it.

 

[Lord Mike]

Ken, the best thing you can do is take your time and appreciate the GS1000s for what they are for the time-being. Bed them in and get to know them before buying anything else.

Once you've become intimately aquainted with your cans' strengths and limitations, it will be easier to understand the benefits of a DAC and amp.
I just spent a little over 150USD on a Trends Audio UD-10 DAC that connects to my laptop via USB.
The difference it made to the source material was astounding, to the extent that I hauled out all my favourite CDs to unearth layers in the music I never knew existed.
Finally, a good headphone amp will just enrich the music for your personal listening requirements. For my tastes, I prefer solid state amps for my GS1000s and tubes for the more brash-sounding RS-1s.
But again, I suggest you take your time and work out your listening preferences before shelling out the big bucks.
There are some really good recommendations on this site but there's an immense sense of satisfaction when you let your ears decide for themselves.
Good luck on the fun journey.

 

[kwilkins]

Hi Ken ! Welcome to Head-Fi and sorry about your wallet !!!

''Would I get better sound if I ran the amp through my computer and played music from iTunes on the computer instead of using the iPod?''

Sure, just make sure you have a coaxial out on your computer to connect to an external DAC or just buy a nice redbook (CD) player.

Thanks for taking time to reply, I’m feeling a bit lost with all this and really appreciate it.

Regarding the CD player I would prefer to stick with using iTunes, at least for the time being. I’ve converted everything using Apple Lossless and although this may not be quite as good as the original CD I really enjoy the ease of managing my music that comes with iTunes.

You suggested using a “coaxial out on your computer to connect to an external DAC” I use a Mac, is there a specific coaxial out I need to get, or is it a generic cable? Also, what DAC would you recommend if I go with the Zana Deux.

Thanks again for the help.

Ken

 

[kwilkins]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lord Mike /img/forum/go_quote.gif Ken, the best thing you can do is take your time and appreciate the GS1000s for what they are for the time-being. Bed them in and get to know them before buying anything else. Once you've become intimately aquainted with your cans' strengths and limitations, it will be easier to understand the benefits of a DAC and amp. I just spent a little over 150USD on a Trends Audio UD-10 DAC that connects to my laptop via USB. The difference it made to the source material was astounding, to the extent that I hauled out all my favourite CDs to unearth layers in the music I never knew existed. Finally, a good headphone amp will just enrich the music for your personal listening requirements. For my tastes, I prefer solid state amps for my GS1000s and tubes for the more brash-sounding RS-1s. But again, I suggest you take your time and work out your listening preferences before shelling out the big bucks. There are some really good recommendations on this site but there's an immense sense of satisfaction when you let your ears decide for themselves. Good luck on the fun journey.

Thank you for the solid advice.

How would I go about learning the differences between various DAC and amp components? I live in Philadelphia, is there a store where I could go and test my headphones with amps?

Ken

 

[Lord Mike]

Hey, sorry about late reply; been busy being an ass on my VW message board.
Anyway,there seems to be immense interest in the new Pico USB DAC/Amp. It's built by a well-respected name and seems to be a great place to start as it combines both DAC and amp in the one box.
IMO, I'd start off on a solid state system for your GS1000s, so the Pico is again a good starting point.
Plus, if you end up upgrading to juicy gear such as a Bel canto DAC3 and a Zana Deux later on, you'll always be able to find a buyer for desirable pieces of gear like the Pico.

As for trying out different gear, make sure you check the Local/Regional meet section of head-fi.
I see they're trying to get another GTG happening soon for Philly.
http://www.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=258074

 

[kwilkins]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lord Mike /img/forum/go_quote.gif As for trying out different gear, make sure you check the Local/Regional meet section of head-fi. I see they're trying to get another GTG happening soon for Philly. http://www.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=258074

Thanks. I'm going to try and get to that event.

 

[iamoneagain]

Quote:

Originally Posted by kwilkins; You suggested using a “coaxial out on your computer to connect to an external DAC” I use a Mac, is there a specific coaxial out I need to get, or is it a generic cable? Also, what DAC would you recommend if I go with the Zana Deux. Thanks again for the help. Ken

For the Mac, you need to use optical. You need a mini connection on one end and a standard one on the other. If you want the best, get this for $85 http://www.vandenhul.com/p_B42.aspx Or you can find generic ones for as little as $10-15. It just plugs into the headphone out. Make sure on iTunes you have the volume at max and any options such as sound check turned off to get true CD quality.

As far as DAC, I haven't heard too many but I'm extremely happy with my Electrocompaniet ECD1. It's a really nice looking and beautiful sounding DAC that can be found on Audiogon for about $1100. I'm sure there are many excellent DAC out there.

Here's your local dealer if you go with that optical cable:

David Lewis Audio
8010 Bustleton Avenue
Philadelphia, PA
Tel: 215-725-4080

 

[Mindless]

Quote:

Originally Posted by kwilkins /img/forum/go_quote.gif I have a problem though, I’m completely new to headphones and have absolutely no idea what to do to get the best sound. I’ve converted all my CD’s into iTunes, they are in Apple Lossless format. I’m currently using my iPod (160GB Classic) with the headset but understand that a dedicated headphone amp would significantly improve the sound. I have the following questions that I hope someone can help out with.

Finally someone that uses lossless. Thumbs up to you. It's a good start for getting the most out of your GS1000 when you get them.

Quote:

What is a DAC and do I need one?

As explained above, a DAC is a digital to analog converter, which, as the name implies, converts the digital signal to a analog current.

Quote:

What headphone amp would you recommend for the Grado GS1000? I’d like to spend around $1,000, but could go up to $2,000 (or a bit higher) if there was a significant jump in quality.

I've been using my Corda Opera for about three months now with my GS1000 and I'm very happy with it. It's a amplifier / DAC combination, so you get alot for the price (about $1200).

The amplifier itself is top notch. Very well sounding and powerful impact in the lower end which suits the GS1000 perfectly (in my opinion). Very good at emphasizing string instruments too. Overall a very musical amplifier, not cold or analytic in any way.

The DAC in the amplifier is probably not the best you can get (comparable to a $400-500 CD Player I'd say), but it will definately be an improvement over the iPod.

Quote:

Would I get better sound if I ran the amp through my computer and played music from iTunes on the computer instead of using the iPod?

Well, that depends on the quality of the DAC. iPods aren't famous for high-quality DACs, neither are soundcards in computers. Modified, both can be very good, but getting a stand-alone DAC will provide you with a much richer sound.

I'm confused though. All too many people use portable sources (iPods) for their home rigs.

Do you intend to use the Grados for home or portable use? GS1000 is one of the most open headphones around, so pretty much anything besides a dead-silent enviroment is a big no-no.

 

[kwilkins]

Quote:

Originally Posted by iamoneagain /img/forum/go_quote.gif For the Mac, you need to use optical. You need a mini connection on one end and a standard one on the other. If you want the best, get this for $85 http://www.vandenhul.com/p_B42.aspx Or you can find generic ones for as little as $10-15. It just plugs into the headphone out. Make sure on iTunes you have the volume at max and any options such as sound check turned off to get true CD quality. As far as DAC, I haven't heard too many but I'm extremely happy with my Electrocompaniet ECD1. It's a really nice looking and beautiful sounding DAC that can be found on Audiogon for about $1100. I'm sure there are many excellent DAC out there. Here's your local dealer if you go with that optical cable: David Lewis Audio 8010 Bustleton Avenue Philadelphia, PA Tel: 215-725-4080

Thanks for the tips. I'll pick up that optical cable and visit David Lewis Audio.

Ken

 

[kwilkins]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mindless /img/forum/go_quote.gif I'm confused though. All too many people use portable sources (iPods) for their home rigs. Do you intend to use the Grados for home or portable use? GS1000 is one of the most open headphones around, so pretty much anything besides a dead-silent enviroment is a big no-no.

Thanks for the reply.

It’s not that I actually want to use the iPod at home, but that I want to use my iTunes library instead of CD’s. That was the reason for my question about using the computer (a Mac) and iTunes instead of the iPod. I find it much easier to use my digital library in iTunes or the iPod than it is to manage hundreds of CD’s.

What I’m really interested in is getting the best sound using my music in iTunes as opposed to using a CD player.

I’ll only be using the GS1000s at home in a dead quite environment.