[Satriany]

Sometimes there is a confusion between power and gain.

I did not know about that burson combo, are you satisfied?

 

[DillingerEP]

I can recommend a Hifiman EF400. A affordable dac/amp combi, that sounds very good and is extremely powerful.

 

[SussyTofu420]

Sometimes there is a confusion between power and gain.

I did not know about that burson combo, are you satisfied?

If you're asking me, then yes, I'm very satisfied with the Playmate2. I'm using the V7 Classic op-amps. Lots of power and nice analog sound with just a hint of warmth.

 

[leylandi]

Which amplifiers would you recommend for HEK stealth in the 2k price range?

 

[mudguardiain]

Which amplifiers would you recommend for HEK stealth in the 2k price range?

I am currently using the Cayin HA-3A which sounds fantastic with Genalex Gold Lion tubes. I demoed a Violectric V340 which was also excellent.

 

[npatrix]

Which amplifiers would you recommend for HEK stealth in the 2k price range?

I’m also using Cayin HA-3A which sounds great, also use Aune S17 Pro and demoed Vio V222 all deliver amazing synergy, tough my preference goes to the Cayin (probably due to personal preference for tubes).

But the other question is what DAC would you add to the system?

 

[leylandi]

But the other question is what DAC would you add to the system?

My preference would be R2R DAC.

 

[npatrix]

My preference would be R2R DAC.

With slightly more than 2K you can get a Cayin HA-3A + a nice R2R DAC (cyan 2, Gustard R26 or Denafrips Ares II 12th).

If you go Aune S17pro, then 2K will be enough for everything, in classifieds you can find both DACs and Amps at good prices many still under warranty.

 

[mudguardiain]

With slightly more than 2K you can get a Cayin HA-3A + a nice R2R DAC (cyan 2, Gustard R26 or Denafrips Ares II 12th).

If you go Aune S17pro, then 2K will be enough for everything, in classifieds you can find both DACs and Amps at good prices many still under warranty.

I am using the Spring 3 and it’s fantastic with the Cayin & HE1000, the Cyan 2 would no doubt offer similar performance at a more reasonable price.

 

[Nick727]

Anyone try the ZMF HE1000 lambskin pads? Curious how they change the sound compared to stock pads.

Also just curious if anyone had a recommendation for a good headphone stand that won't stretch the suspensions trap?

 

[Armament]

I use a Burson Audio Playmate 2 that is about 3W. I sometimes need to have the volume at 60-65/99 on high gain. I don't think I'd want a less powerful amp.

They’re known to be very efficient. Perhaps the amp isn’t very good. I’m at like 20% on my RME. 4W at 64ohm.

 

[Satriany]

Are you referring to adi 2 FS?
Are you driving the he1k from it?

 

[Marlowe]

With slightly more than 2K you can get a Cayin HA-3A + a nice R2R DAC (cyan 2, Gustard R26 or Denafrips Ares II 12th).

If you go Aune S17pro, then 2K will be enough for everything, in classifieds you can find both DACs and Amps at good prices many still under warranty.

Well, that's my setup with the HEK Stealth--Aune S17 and Denafrips Ares 12th-1. It may be a relative "poor man's" setup, but it sounds terrific.

But someone correct me if I am wrong, but I thought the poster was asking only for amps in the $2K range, not including an DAC .

Which amplifiers would you recommend for HEK stealth in the 2k price range?

 

[borkenarrou]

Anyone try the ZMF HE1000 lambskin pads? Curious how they change the sound compared to stock pads.

Also just curious if anyone had a recommendation for a good headphone stand that won't stretch the suspensions trap?

I got this one from aliexpress, quite good for the price actually, the webpage says its made for dual band headphones like HE1K / Arya so can be rested on the metal beam to protect the leather headband.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256803636517547.html

 

[leylandi]

But someone correct me if I am wrong, but I thought the poster was asking only for amps in the $2K range, not including an DAC .

yes