Need help finding best hp amp section of $1,200-$2,500 DACs

[radiomir]

In looking for a DAC with headphone amp in this price range, I've come across the same mentions over and over:

Grace Audio m903
Mytek Stereo 192-DSD DA
Benchmark DAC2
Yulong DA8
Anedio D2
Linx Hilo
ExaSound e20
Antelope Zodiac Gold (there is currently a used one in this price range)

Most reviews and discussions gloss over headphone amp capabilities, however. Anyone have experience comparing any of these from a headphone amp perspective?

I posted this in the dedicated source component section with no luck. Sorry for the double post.

 

[Soundwave76]

I am interested in the same thing. I would remove Mytek from the list, because there are multiple bad reviews of it's headphone amp probably due to it's high output impedance. I would personally trust Benchmark's hp amp implementation, because NwAvGuy praised Benchmark a lot and compared O2 to it...

 

[GoldfishX]

The more I go listen to stuff like this, the more I'm convinced separates are the way to go. The headphone amps just seem like afterthoughts. Supposedly the Burson Conductor got it right. And McIntosh has the D100, which is both a DAC and headphone amp for around $2500. I want to hear it. Not even going to lie, McIntosh gear is just sexy.
 
I've heard the CEntrance Dacmini CX and didn't like either section, but the headphone amp was way underpowered. Mad Dogs felt like they were under water. $800 msrp.

 

[mrscotchguy]

I'm waiting for the new Oppo HA-1 to be released... Could be a while, but I have high hopes.

 

[GoldfishX]

I'm waiting for the new Oppo HA-1 to be released... Could be a while, but I have high hopes.

Off topic, but I'm waiting for more info on their new planar magnetic headphones. Hopefully LCD performance with hifiman prices with Sennheiser-level comfort (the current planars are too heavy for me). Oppo seems to be gaining a good rep the past couple years.