Use Fixed Output on Integrated to feed headphone amp?

[creativepart]

I have a Rogue Cronus Magnum II integrated amp. The headphone amp on this integrated is frankly not very good. Rogue has created an updated version of the amp (the "III) that improves the headphone amp because the one in the II is recognized as lacking. I don't really want to spend the $1,200 necessary to upgrade the amp. But I love the amp with my speakers (Harbeth's).

I don't listen with headphones a lot, but have a fairly decent pair of Meze Classic 99s and I'd like to use them more. So, I'm considering getting a dedicated headphone amp. Nothing too special right now. Anyway, I assume that I will connect a headphone amp to the Rogue's "Fixed Output" RCAs. There is a variable output RCA pair too, but that can't be the one to use.

Any body see a problem with my thinking or am I on the right track?

Thanks, in advance.

 

[ProtegeManiac]

Any body see a problem with my thinking or am I on the right track?

That's the only way to do it other than using the direct input into the integrated amp's amplifier stage (bypassing its preamp) if it has one from a headphone amplifier's preamp output.

Going for one or the other depends on whether you want to keep all the preamp inputs and outputs that are all over traditional integrated amps or use some headphone amps' tube preamp stages.

 

[creativepart]

Thanks. I don't have a Tape Loop. But do have the Fixed and Variable outputs.

I'm counting on adding an inexpensive headphone amplifier to sound better than the built in headphone output.

The amp is an all tube integrated, but the headphone output is a separate circuit that doesn't use the speaker amp's tubes or anything like it. It's basically a small solid state subsection of the integrated amp. It has a phono input, too. But like the headphone output it's just a totally separate section of the amp and not well regarded.

I'm looking at the Schiit products because they're a cheap gateway to determine if I like the outcome and they are even returnable - either the Asgar 3 or the Magni 3+.

 

[buke9]

The Meze 99 Classics are a fairly sensitive headphone and don’t need a lot of power at all. They are also a bit on the warmer side so either would work but the Magni3+ or Heresy will have way more power than you need .

 

[creativepart]

Thanks Buke9, I keep going back and forth on my thinking for which to go for. But it's all a learning experience anyway.

 

[buke9]

Thanks Buke9, I keep going back and forth on my thinking for which to go for. But it's all a learning experience anyway.

Yep not a solid answer either way sorry but that is the nature of audio isn’t it?