[GlowWorm]

I just purchased a mg head otl. It was my understanding that it was a mint dealer demo. Its my first headphone amp, as well as my first tube amp, a double noob. When I pulled it out of the box I was very impressed. The overall build quality is very good. The chassis, faceplate, rear panel, and transformer covers, look bullit-proof. Not out of place on a 1K amplifier. Only the wimpy looking feedback switch, and plastic accented headphone jacks give the show away. I then plug it in, and fire it up. First I plug my Grado SR-80s into the transformer mode w/feedback switch up (on). I noticed a slight, but audible tape-like hiss in the right channel. Then I flipped down the switch down (off), the hissing increased to what I felt was a unacceptable level. I then tried the otl mode, switch on and off. Dead silent. I then hook up my source, (Marantz CD-48), and put in ZZ Top/Deguello. My Grados go back to square one (trans/on) and turned volume up ( some scratching noise in the process, but stopped when set) to ten-o-clock position. Music, sweet music. Bass was soft, but not disagreeably so. Mids were warm, lush, and voluptuous. Highs were rolled, and sweet. The overall presentation was thick, and creamy smooth. The before mentioned hiss disappeared when playing, and there seemed to be a good blackness behind the music. Next, to trans/off. Simular sonic characteristics, but treble was more extended, but at the cost of some added grain. Last, but least I plug the SR-80s in the MG Head's otl, not good. Volume was 1/3 of non-otl, soundstage was very recessed,and murky. Verdict ?..... The MG-Head/SR-80 combo only works well in the transformer mode w/feedback. The otl?...... Forget about it!

 

[cjc]

I have the Grado SR 60's and they too sound outstanding ONLY from the trans feedback/on. BUT when I play my Beyer DT831's or Senn 580's I use OTL and feedback off. It's great that this amp can handle so many different headphones so well.

 

[GlowWorm]

Thanks cjc, Im going to order some HD-580's soon as I wake up, so I can enjoy the otl experience. But can somebody address the hissing issue, I mean is that normal? And is there anything I can do to remedy this other than buying the Senn's? Keep in mind guy's that I'm not a DIY-ier, and would be a affraid to tear it open.

 

[N@Z]

The MG Head works better with high impeadance headphones like Senn HD 580/600 & Etys. Grados are low impeadance headphones which account to the higher noise you heard.

I definitely prefer the HD600 in headphone/Trans mode.

 

[Zanth]

The RA-1 gives 0 hiss and may be your very best option for the SR-80's. Fairly inexpensive and it gives fabulous sound when combined with any Grado.