MF X-Can v3 compared to HeadAmp Lite v2?

[Solude]

Not sure why, but since I have a MF A3.24 DAC on the way I started thinking about the X-Can v3. Every 'pro' review loves the thing, Stereophile (class A), On Hifi (glowing review), AudioFile (warns against using poor sources and loved it). But on Head-Fi, its not so loved and in fact disappeared entirely.

So anyone able to compare the two? Also any pictures of the wall-wort? Its 24v 500mA so I'm thinking a monster, but no one has pictures of it.

 

[insomniac]

You know what, I've heard the X-Can v3 at a local store and liked it. It doesn't get much respect here at Head-fi, perhaps because it's somewhat of a mass market product, perhaps because the value at MSRP isn't as great as some others, perhaps because it uses a wimpy wallwart, perhaps some other reason. It definitely can't touch the big boys discussed here, but it's not a bad amp. I listened to it being fed by an Arcam CD33 and into a pair of Grado RS-1's. The sound was very silky smooth and liquid. The sound wasn't as full as some other amps but it had a very pleasant, light, airy character to it. Sounded almost like a Gilmore V2-SE-"light" to me. Thought it paired beautifully with the Grados. I don't think it would be a bad choice if those sonic characteristics appeal to you. And you can tube roll as well of course.

 

[Sleestack]

I have one (along with 2 set sof the PSU/DAC and 10). I don't use it much b/c I also have a maxed MPX3, but it is a very nice headphone amp. It is built very well, has plenty of power to drive HD650s and has a slight touch of tube warmth. Mine will be available after the San Jose Head-fi meet (unless someone buys it there). If you are interested, let me know. I'll be selling it for $250. It is mint.

 

[EdipisReks]

i liked the X-Can V3 that i heard quite a bit, though i didn't get to hear it long enough to develop a really detailed opinion of it. it was definitely smooth and liquid, with a pretty sweet sounding midrange. goes great with Grados!

 

[kontai69]

I used to own the Gilmore Lite with stock (Elpac) power supply and listened to my brother's X-Can V3 with X-PSU. Senn 650s were used for comparison. I prefer the sound of the Gilmore Lite. The X-Can's sound was a little too laid back for my liking. The GL had a more dynamic sound and more bass. Also, I think that the GL is a much better bargain. The X-Can sells for $400 (with puny wall-wort) vs $300 for the GL. The X-Can is made in China and the GL is hand-made in the U.S. However, they are both well made, solid feeling amps.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Solude Also any pictures of the wall-wort? Its 24v 500mA so I'm thinking a monster, but no one has pictures of it.

The X-Can's wall-wort is actually quite puny. It kind of looks like the one that came with my camera battery charger. The Gilmore Lite's stock Elpac looks huge in comparison.

 

[Solude]

Hmmm okay lets add a few to the mix...

How about the stock SP PPX, EC HD25... any other amp in the $600, new or used, range?

 

[EdipisReks]

the PPX3 and the HD25 are, to my ear, much better amps than the X-Can V3.

 

[pbirkett]

It had one or two good things going for it, but IMHO, it wasnt even as good as a Headsave Classic (i've owned both).

 

[insomniac]

This thread got me thinking about the X-Can v3 again and I gave it another listen at the same store. And I really like it. It may not compete with the EC or Singlepower as all around amps, but they just pair with the Grados so well. I'm considering picking one up just to use with Grado headphones. It's not a hyper detailed, transparent amp. It's actually colored and tubey but it really has a nice effect on brightish Grados. Very musical.

 

[mysticaldodo]

The XCan needs to be modded and tube rolled to sound really good . Or you could save up for something better and more expensive. Headphones amps are scarce here so I'm investing in improving this old bugger here.

I'm having a dedicated pSU made. I refuse to pay for the XPSU since I don't own the other Xstuff.

 

[Teerawit]

Quote:

Originally Posted by insomniac This thread got me thinking about the X-Can v3 again and I gave it another listen at the same store.

Are you referring to Sound by Singer? I went by their store and heard their Grados through the X-Can v3, and I liked them too.

 

[insomniac]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Teerawit Are you referring to Sound by Singer? I went by their store and heard their Grados through the X-Can v3, and I liked them too.

Yup that's the one. Both times they had an Arcam FMJ CD33 hooked up to it. And then you can try all the Grados. Thought they sounded amazing with the RS-1s.

 

[Teerawit]

Hmm...they had the Linn Genki hooked up to it when I was there about two weeks ago. Not a bad-sounding player, either.