Is it worth it to amp ATH-FC7 + iPod?

[banderson]

I'm planning on buying a pair of ATH-FC7s to go with my 4g iPod (first real headphone purchase, i suppose.) Is there going to be any real benefit to me by spending a little cash on a <$100 amp to go with it? Would it help the sound at all?
thanks

 

[Erik S.]

IMO there's no significant benefit with amping the FC7, I'd rather spend the extra cash on music or head up another level on the headphone ladder.

I use the FC7 with my iPod mini and I'm quite satisfied with its performance.
I do notice a slight difference when amping them with my Millett Hybrid, it gets more smooth, but that's just the tubes playing tricks.

Hope this helps

 

[episiarch]

To my ears the FC7 improved hugely with an amp vs. my 4G iPod alone. Clarity was improved greatly throughout the spectrum, and bass in particular acquired far more authority.

The improvement was immediately noticeable with my Porta Corda II. Amped with a Gilmore Lite, the FC7 was almost offensively ("it's not supposed to sound this good at this price!") good. I'm pretty impressed.

This is with a new unit fresh from the box. I can't say what changes breakin might bring.

 

[Primary]

I'm very interested in this can, do they sell it anywhere outside japan? I'm talking europe or canada, i know i can get it online but

a) can i actually buy this product in shops? if yes, where?
b) where can i order one to Europe? anyone done this successfully, from where, for how much?

thanks in advance.