[FlyingInABlueDream]

I love my 595, and while I'm sure there are hundreds of better options, it fits my budget and sound needs. My question is, will there be a noticeable difference in sound quality with a dedicated headphone amp? Or really, is it worth it to get an amp for them?

I mostly listen to them on my iPod, which drives them fairly well with the volume high. I've also plugged them into my Klipsch 2.1 desktop speakers, which can get quite loud, but I feel as if it's distorting the sound (or at least the bass cracks and it generally sounds "too loud").

I'm looking to spend around $100, maybe more for an amp. I'm just worried that I might drop some money on something that has only a marginal difference in sound quality.

 

[pimped_her_out]

Better for you to buy a DAC than an amp.

 

[ford2]

Save your money.

 

[pp312]

Quote:

Originally Posted by FlyingInABlueDream /img/forum/go_quote.gif I love my 595, and while I'm sure there are hundreds of better options, it fits my budget and sound needs. My question is, will there be a noticeable difference in sound quality with a dedicated headphone amp? Or really, is it worth it to get an amp for them? I mostly listen to them on my iPod, which drives them fairly well with the volume high. I've also plugged them into my Klipsch 2.1 desktop speakers, which can get quite loud, but I feel as if it's distorting the sound (or at least the bass cracks and it generally sounds "too loud"). I'm looking to spend around $100, maybe more for an amp. I'm just worried that I might drop some money on something that has only a marginal difference in sound quality.

That's exactly what will happen: you'll do your dough for no reward. And don't think just because you read the odd bit of 595 bashing here that "there are hundreds of better options". IMO, not so humble, the 595 is unbeatable in its price range and a good bit above. Stop worrying and enjoy the music.

 

[muddyglass]

amping the hd595 will only make a marginal difference.

however, if you plan on buying some harder to drive headphones later on down the line, then an amp might not be a bad thing to have. beware though: once you buy an amp for the hd595, you'll be tempted to upgrade to the hd600 or hd650.

 

[TStewart422]

Quote:

Originally Posted by pimped_her_out /img/forum/go_quote.gif Better for you to buy a DAC than an amp.

----------------
Listening to: King Diamond - Welcome Home
via FoxyTunes

 

[FlyingInABlueDream]

Much thanks for the help. What worries me is that I will buy an amp for the 595's that will make almost no difference, but also not drive anything more powerful, thus making it a useless buy. I'll keep them un-amped for now (they sound great anyways).