[SuperDuke]

Not finding much in terms of impressions of the ACA as a headamp

https://diyaudiostore.com/products/amp-camp-amp-kit?variant=7072933085218

I should have one finished by next week and be able to report back soon after.

 

[SuperDuke]

Finished the ACA build and all works well. Very easy build and would be perfect for a first time kit. It sounds very very good w/ my Diana Phi and Susvara. I'll let it burn in and report back later.

 

[randytsuch]

I bought the kit but haven't put it together yet.
Maybe this will motivate me to build it.
Looking forward to more impressions.

 

[SuperDuke]

The ACA was perhaps the most fun kit build to date for me (I've built several tube amp kits). It's so simple I can follow the schematic and wiring diagram easily (I have no electronics background).

Regarding performance - It is dead quiet w/ 91db headphones but I've not tried more efficient HPs yet. It has plenty of slam in the bass and mids and does not appear to have a collapsed stage (as I've heard w/ some lower powered amps) w/ the Susvara. More listening to follow and I am encouraged by what I've heard so far - very engaging amplifier.

 

[randytsuch]

It doesn't look like you made any changes for a headphone jack.
Using an adapter connected to the speaker binding posts?

 

[SuperDuke]

Yes I am using a speaker tap adapter w/ XLR termination. It works very well

 

[Philimon]

Yes I am using a speaker tap adapter w/ XLR termination. It works very well

Ill be doing the same.
My first time with a solder. I reflowed the solder on pcb before moving to next step. I hope I dont have troubleshoot this thing later.

Here is where I am at:

 

[adydula]

Have had this for many months its excellent!
Using with many cans and dacs...
Rad 0's with the Pass Labs ACA + MHDT Orchid NOS dac is superb!
Old school TDA 1541 chip from the 80s/90s..rare and $$$.
The dac has a tube outout buffer and you can play with tubes if u so desire...and I have!
LOL!

Wondeful setup.
Alex