[blackcoffee]

I'm considering my 2nd amp to build after a CMOY to get even better sound. Given the choice of forum, I'm not looking for something necessarily battery operated but rather something with good sound and power enough to drive all possible headphones (within reason of course).

Since I'm kind of new to this hobby, I'd appreciate pointers to projects to try. I'd really prefer not to have to make my own PCBs, but I'm not afraid to use tubes if needed. The apparant simplicity of tube schematics attract me, while I really have more experience with solid state equipment. Since this is a hobby, it may cost money.

So... where should I be looking? There are hundreds of projects out there, but many seems to focus on "portable" and that's not really an issue for me.

(my current cans are K-701 and DT250, but as you know that may change in the future...)

 

[pabbi1]

Solid state: M³.

Hybrid: MillettMax, CTH or, if you are really frisky, SOHA II.

For a less structured project, have a look at the Millett Starvig Student, which does not require a board, though some are coming in the near future.

I have built all these (except CTH), and is a good high level sample of what is out there, in low voltage. Pure tube (to the extent we all argue what 'pure tube' is) requires higher voltage, and NOT a first or second project experience.

 

[Uncle Erik]

You can find a number of kits and PCBs through Glass Jar Audio. Another interesting option is the Aikido built as a headphone amp.

If you're feeling adventurous, check out the projects at HeadWize. There are a number of superb point-to-point amps to tackle there.

 

[blackcoffee]

I'm not too afraid of high voltage - in fact I've been looking a bit at HeadWize - Project: A Single-Ended OTL Amplifier for Dynamic Headphones by Aren van Waarde after recommendations from other directions

Thanks.

 

[oneplustwo]

I second the Millet minimax. Another option is to build a mini3 which is a bit different in that there are some SMD components. Or you can go away from amps entirely and build the gamma1 DAC. Again, more SMD components.

 

[pabbi1]

Then, also have a look at Bijou, on CavalliAudio with SOHA II and CTH.

 

[sachu]

Quote:

Originally Posted by pabbi1 /img/forum/go_quote.gif Then, also have a look at Bijou, on CavalliAudio with SOHA II and CTH.

another vote for the CTh and SOHA2...The thing with the CTH is that the case work is a snap ...especially with full kits being offered here..predrilled top platenot to mention cheap!!

 

[Beefy]

Plenty of good options. I've built a couple of flavours of Millett Max and they are really good, fun builds. The MMM is a truly awesome amp, but a bit more pricey than a standard Max would come out at.

I've never built a CKKIII or PPAv2, but they are definitely great options.

 

[MrSlim]

The CTH is also a real Tube Roller, with lots of tube options that have a dramatic effect on the sound, so you can have fun with that.

 

[adamus]

if you build the bijou, you will be happy. lovely amp, and a real synergy with hd650's.