Hanafuda
500+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Jan 28, 2007
- Posts
- 574
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- 231
I can't imagine paying big dollars on a used machine.
The ZX300 may not have enough power.
I like the idea of balanced out for the Z7's, but I guess it won't matter for the Grado's.
Lots of reading to do.
Shane D
There isn't much point to buying the zx300 or WM1A unless you intend to use the balanced output. But to do that with the Z7, you're gonna need a cable. Something to consider.
But the Z7 will do fine with the zx300 if you do go that route. There are people here using the ZX300 with much more power hungry cans than the Z7. Yes, the WM1A makes a little more power. 250mW per channel on balanced vs. the zx300's 200mW (both at 16ohms). But consider that the Sony's stationary amp from the Signature series, the TA-ZH1ES, outputs 1200mW per channel, at 32 ohms, and that differential between the two DAPs isn't so much anymore. (And I think I've read here somewhere that the ZH1ES isn't even that powerful of an amp) So either of the Sony DAPs will drive the Z7 well, but neither will get that last squeezin'. Such is life. I like being able to move around the house so it isn't something I worry about.