[tmcevoy213]

Hello,

I use AKG K501s for close listening of acoustic music, and I'm pretty happy with their overall approach. However I've realized they are underpowered by my MacBook, which at the moment is my primary source for listening (lossless files of course). The reason I think they are underpowered is that I can't get higher than a medium-low volume on some tracks. I imagine more power would add more detail too? Not sure about this part, would appreciate feedback.

I'm ready to take the next step, but I'm not sure whether that means getting a headphone amp, or upgrading the headphones. Which approach would you recommend? If you have a specific recommendation for an amp or headphone upgrade, I would appreciate that too. I was looking at the K/Q701, but it seems like that would need an amp too, and so here I am seeking advice. I appreciate any feedback!

 

[buke9]

For me a amp is always better for the most part. I like the headroom of more power. I don't understand you can't get medium to low level on some tracks?

 

[tmcevoy213]

Thanks for your response. To clarify, when listening with my current setup on 100% volume, it seems to me a medium or medium low level. If I plug in a different headphone, it is unlistenably loud at 100%. Hope that helps clarify.

 

[Quinto]

Thanks for your response. To clarify, when listening with my current setup on 100% volume, it seems to me a medium or medium low level. If I plug in a different headphone, it is unlistenably loud at 100%. Hope that helps clarify.

Personally I would buy an amp, because the K501 is powerhungry, but then again, I looove my K501..I use V200 amp, but a cheaper amp will do the trick as well I'm sure. The K501 is pretty unique and incredible with acoustic music.

 

[buke9]

Thanks for your response. To clarify, when listening with my current setup on 100% volume, it seems to me a medium or medium low level. If I plug in a different headphone, it is unlistenably loud at 100%. Hope that helps clarify.

I understand now you have a budget? You like your headphones and they don't get loud enough then a amp will do you. If you want better sound and or different then headphones is the way to go.

 

[tmcevoy213]

About $250 give or take. Would ideally like to find a sweet spot of value for the price.

 

[tmcevoy213]

Thanks for writing Quinto. I'm a big k501 fan too! I haven't tried that many headphones, but it seems very nice for acoustic music. I'll look into the V200, thanks for the suggestion.

 

[Quinto]

Thanks for writing Quinto. I'm a big k501 fan too! I haven't tried that many headphones, but it seems very nice for acoustic music. I'll look into the V200, thanks for the suggestion.

Good luck! listening to Charlie Hunter on my K501/V200 right now, glorious