[Zoom25]

I would like to hear some impressions as to how the O2 pairs with the HE-500. Also whether the O2 can power the HE-500 or not, or to what extent. I would also like how to know the O2 compares with Schiit Asgard, Lyr, NFB 12.1 etc.
 

 

[NA Blur]

The O2 should power the HE-500 just fine.  I tested the stock O2 with DAC using a pair of LCD-2 and LCD-3 headphones and while it was not the loudest system I have heard it was able to get plenty loud.  I think you can even specify what gain you want on the O2 so you can have a little more voltage for less sensitive headphones, but I would not worry about not having enough power.
 
I just finished some testing of a Xonar Essance One and really liked it.  It drove all of the LCD headphones I have quite well and sounded pretty darn transparent.  If that is in your budget and the connectors are adequate you may want to consider the Xonar.  I place it a step above the Music Hall 25.2 Amp / DAC in regards to sound quality.

 

[FrederikS|TPU]

It works just fine with a normal gained O2 I have the combo right here.

 

[MLee]

I had a Lyr and an O2 that I went back and forth on with a pair of HE-500. I sold the Lyr. There wasn't enough difference to warrant the extra cost. I ended up selling the HE-500 for other reasons but I thought the O2 handled them just fine.

 

[Zoom25]

Thanks for the all the help so far. I was going to pair the amp with my Marantz CD5004. Does anyone know how much power the O2 has, specifically at 32 ohms. Whichever amp I end up going with, It'll be for the HE-500. Although I would still like to know how the O2 pairs with the Denon headphones (2/5/7000). The impedance of O2 is quite low and should work well in theory with the Denon's but would be nice to hear from experience. Also I have heard that the bass through O2 is lacking, especially in comparison to the Lyr. I would love to know how you guys find the bass with the O2 vs other amps like asgard or lyr. Also I've heard that the mids are a bit too thin on HE-500. Any comments on that? Majority of my music is electronica with some hip hop, pop and jazz....if that makes a difference. Also how do you guys find the soundstage on the O2? I've heard the Lyr is pretty bad in comparison to other amps, even the asgard.