ZMF Verite Open

[SteveM324]

Never heard of that one, though I sure know the name Ray Samuels. Is it good?

I owned one for about 2-3 years about 15 years ago. The Dark Star was designed to power hard to drive headphones. Since the VO is relatively efficient, I don't think it would be a good match. It was designed to drive headphones like the HE6. I could easily hear hissing noise with efficient headphones.

 

[Pharmaboy]

I owned one for about 2-3 years about 15 years ago. The Dark Star was designed to power hard to drive headphones. Since the VO is relatively efficient, I don't think it would be a good match. It was designed to drive headphones like the HE6. I could easily hear hissing noise with efficient headphones.

Since posting that I read some fascinating reviews of the Dark Star. 14 years ago everything was different: there were a few planar headphones that completely tapped out most headphone amps of the day. The Dark Star was Ray Samuels' brute force response. This thing could swing 80 volts (insert jpg of Munch's "Scream"). But these days any number of really fine SS amps exist that aren't as powerful as the Dark Star, but still handle power hogs like the HE6, Abyss, and Susvara quite well. My Vio V281, V280 and Well Milo are 3 of those.

But I'm curious anyway. You don't get to be an amp 'ho like me by being satisfied & incurious....

 

[devilboy]

I owned one for about 2-3 years about 15 years ago. The Dark Star was designed to power hard to drive headphones. Since the VO is relatively efficient, I don't think it would be a good match. It was designed to drive headphones like the HE6. I could easily hear hissing noise with efficient headphones.

Yes, I know. I was considering purchasing it for a possible planar magnetic purchase as well.

 

[andrewchoppa]

Lol. I really just don't want to start cutting away at my precious pad.

Haha - for me it was a necessity. Now they're perfect (for me).

 

[devilboy]

Haha - for me it was a necessity. Now they're perfect (for me).

Big difference?