[Tex Irie]

If anyone listens to music using IEMs solely and happen to be looking for a DAC/Amp.. The Questyle CMA Twelve Master is a very robust offering free of hiss with sensitive IEMs. Just wanted to put that out there.

 

[Tex Irie]

For Headphones... If you prefer Solid State Amps.. You really cannot go wrong with the HeadAmp GS-X MK2 or GS-X Mini. I previously owned one but prefer IEMs for listening.. I haven't come across a headphone HeadAmp's offerings weren't capable of driving.

 

[smallcaps]

krell ksa 5

First @smallcaps thanks for all the work you have done. This is a great resource.
And what a rabbit hole. While I don't think you need to do anything else, do you feel the need for yet another class, that is end game but not in production?

Great idea @geek707, Probably should so fellow Head-Fiers looking for these products know if it is unobtainable due to production ceasing. I think this is the start of a great resource. Thank you @smallcaps.

The Krell was the trigger for me, but there was a Headroom Amp that's also not available, and at least the Zahl that's very limited production, and might never be available on the open market to us mere mortals.
That said there are a lot more choices than I was aware of to sort through.

Thanks for the suggestions and support! I was originally shopping for an end-game amp and this list ended up becoming what it is now. Just hope it's useful for fellow members, too!

Regarding out-of-production amps: I did think about this and started to put a list down but eventually gave up and decided to not include them. While there are some amazing heirloom amps that can be had on the used market, I resisted making a historical list due to the research needed. Would prefer to help shoppers looking for what's current and readily available. Plus, it would take some work and time that I simply don't have.

Would still love to hear from members on out-of-production suggestions tho. Maybe if we get enough suggestions I'll compile them all into their own list, eventually...

 

[Tex Irie]

I thought about another DAC/Amp I have some experience with... The Gold Note DS-10. It paired nicely with the HeadAmp GS-X Mini. The DS-10 (Standalone Unit) Also drove Planar Magnetic Headphones like the Hifiman HE1000se with ease, added a nice hint of warmth and extra oomph to the low end frequencies making for a very engaging listen.

 

[smallcaps]

I thought about another DAC/Amp I have some experience with... The Gold Note DS-10. I paired nicely with the HeadAmp GS-X Mini. The DS-10 (Standalone Unit) Also drove Planar Magnetic Headphones like the Hifiman HE1000se with ease, added a nice hint of warmth and extra oomph to the low end frequencies making for a very engaging listen.

Nice suggestion but it doesn't have analog inputs, which means it can't be used as a stand-alone amp, missing one of the criteria to be on the list.

Looks like a pretty versatile unit tho. Maybe we need another list for end-game, all-in-one units?

 

[Tex Irie]

Nice suggestion but it doesn't have analog inputs, which means it can't be used as a stand-alone amp, missing one of the criteria to be on the list.

Looks like a pretty versatile unit tho. Maybe we need another list for end-game, all-in-one units?

I should have read the rules of engagement. Indeed! I think DAC/Amps would be helpful for the folks that may prefer a single unit.

 

[JohanE]

I thought about another DAC/Amp I have some experience with... The Gold Note DS-10. It paired nicely with the HeadAmp GS-X Mini. The DS-10 (Standalone Unit) Also drove Planar Magnetic Headphones like the Hifiman HE1000se with ease, added a nice hint of warmth and extra oomph to the low end frequencies making for a very engaging listen.

I own the Gold Note DS-10 Plus and their linear powersupply for it, the PSU-10 Evo. It really is a great all-in-one. Can't recommend it enough.

 

[iFi audio]

To Be Released (Unevaluated)
This list contains upcoming amps that have yet to reach the hands (ears?) of forum members. Please add your impressions below.

• ifi iCAN Phantom

Lovely, thanks for potentially making some room for our Phantom

 

[smallcaps]

Lovely, thanks for potentially making some room for our Phantom

I have no doubt that it should be on the list. Excited to read some listening impressions and eventually trying one out for myself.

 

[iFi audio]

I have no doubt that it should be on the list. Excited to read some listening impressions and eventually trying one out for myself.

iCAN Phantom won't be everyone's cup of tea (what product is?), but we're very happy how it turned out and we can't wait to read some feedback about it!

 

[geek707]

I think this qualifies: RSA The Dark Star
Dark Star
And sadly, according to Mr Samuels, another no longer in production.

 

[smallcaps]

I think this qualifies: RSA The Dark Star
Dark Star

Added and thanks!

 

[geek707]

How about Eleven XI Audio Formula S?
Formula S
Looks impressive, but also appears to be a Audio 76 house brand. Thoughts about this amp from anyone?

 

[iFi audio]

I think this qualifies: RSA The Dark Star
Dark Star

It's been a while since I saw that. RSA was fairly popular here on HF during the iMod era many years ago.

 

[George Hincapie]

The Volot is available for sale again