In my opinion after having and using both stand alone headphone amps that are tube based and solid state based, there is more bang for the buck in doing so vs. using the headphone jack on audio equipment. You get more air, dynamics, detail, separation, etc. I am using all types of headphones, dynamic, planar, electrostatic, etc.
Dedicated headphone amp vs Headphone socket on amp
As I am fairly new to the whole headphones world. What is the general consensus in regards to superior sq for headphones, running from an external dac (aavik d-180) to a dedicated headphone amp (no dac) or the headphone socket on a fairly decent int amp (Rega Aethos). I have tried the headphones (sony mdr-f1) from the dac to a small ifi zen can in comparison to directly into the headphone socket of the Aethos and it is a total mismatch. With the latter beating the pulp out of the former. Now, what would happen in a similar matchup with a more expensive headphone amp with a price capped at $400-$500?...In general, is it even worth considering a headphone amp at this price level with the already proficient quality of the headphone socket in the Rega Aethos keenly in mind? .