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? .
The lower the output impedance the better, as a rule of thumb. Your Aethos has 109 Ohms. For comparison, the Drop + THX AAA amp for $200.00 has .1 Ohm! And vanishingly low noise, distortion, etc. My new Quad 33 headphone output impedance is 2.35 Ohms. It drives my Sennheiser HD660S as well as the dedicated headphone amp and LPS I had before getting it, which I have now sold off as superfluous. |
@ghdprentice +1 i encourage you to consider your requirements. Also you may find a good demo or used item available
|
Ultimately, I am now going in the direction of choosing a new set of headphones. Given the strong performance level of the existing headphone socket in the Rega Aethos. A sensible option would be to build upon it. My overall preference is for open back type headphones providing the trademark open and wide soundstage in my current Sony MDR-F1. Now, as good as these headphones have been over the years, some areas of concern can not be overlooked. Becoming more apparent when comparing sound on my reference system with headphones and without. This is where the gulf in quality and of course price is crystal clear. The headphones just lack the warmth, resolution , depth in soundstage, timbre and separation of the reference system. All things considered above, what might be some options to explore in a new set of headphones with a budget of $400 - $1000 ?.....Are there any standout performers / perennial favorites among seasoned headphones enthusiasts coming with strong recommendation. |
Good choice. Some to think about... Sennheiser, Focal, and Grado. There are lots more available that are great. I have a large selection... and only use the Sennheiser... my partner has used Sennheiser for decades at night when I am sleeping.. She keeps them on all night and is extremely picky about comfort and she is female so is also sensitive to bad sound. |
