Like I said, the HDP pairs well with my LCD-2 rev1, but the DACmini is a little more transparent and balanced sounding. However the HDP becomes more holographic and transparent sounding with the addition of my Sigma 11 linear-regulated PSU, and at that point it comes very close to the DACmini when used with LCD-2. The improvement with the upgraded PSU is very noticeable, and pleasing. I'd expect the Nuforce brand linear PSU to compare well to the S11. With the upgraded PSU the difference between the two products is not big, but with the stock PSU the difference between amps with LCD-2 is a little bigger, although it's still a good pairing. I do find the HDP to not pair as well with HD800 or HE-500 due to it's amp's slightly aggressive nature, so if you ever plan to get those phones you might prefer the DACmini you have. The DACmini's volume control is also a bit better with IEM at very low volumes.