I heard the 300 SEI with HD 580 phones and equinox cable and the sound coming out of it was absolutely divine! The only thing giving a run for the money to this system is the Sennheiser Orpheus, which would run in the $14k range. Aside from the Orpheus (I haven't heard Stax), the Cary blows every other headphone amp away including the blockhead and the max (headroom amps). Compared to Cary, these very high priced headphone amps sound harsh and unmusical. If you have this kind of money to spend on a headphone amp, the 300SEI is the best choice out there.
Experiences with Cary 300 SEI headphone amp.,
I love all kind of music which includes both classical and pop rock. I am looking for an outstanding headphone amp and was wondering if anyone had experience with the Cary 300 SEI integrated amp which has been mentioned to me as an outstanding phone amp. I would really appreciate comments from member familiar with this amplifier as well anyone who has had or listened to the VTL-ST- 150 unit. Thank you in advance. Manny