Tubed Headamp for Grado RS-2 ?

Lornecherry thanks, headwize's forums are down at the moment. Can't find a server that can handle the increased activity for his budget. Sad, headwize was very informitive. I am using a Classe ssp50 (same analog pre as the CP-50) into the RA-1 but find the little Grado amp very detailed with good dynamics and pace. But also very forward and well, typical ss sounding. Using a decent source (Classe CDT-1 transport) that sounds great with the Aerials. Maybe its the RS-2s i don't like. Would the HD600s and RA-1 sound more laid back and not in your face like the Grados RS-2s. Whats the difference between the RS-1s and 2s? I need some advice (help). Also the Grados are uncomfortable, that foam is making my ears raw. Any comments how the Sen HD600s sound?

Wow you guys are great. Today everything is sounding much much smoother with great detail. What i think is that i started to evaluate without anything burning in. I just recieved the Grado combo the day before i posted and only had a few hours on them. Also i'm using a brand new silver ic that i won on auction back in Oct of last year for only 72. The cable is a ZuCable silver ic and according to ZuCables website, list for 550. I never tried the cable as it sat in the closet since Oct. This cable seems to be surprisingly very good. Edgy at first but now its very very smooth with excellent detail and dynamics. I suspect that i was experienceing the effects of the new silver sounding forward and bright and harsh. Today its a totally different sound. The RS2/RA1 are great sounding. The Classe ssp50 is the best processor i ever heard for 2ch music. I auditioned the likes of Theta, Krell, Ead, Proceed and the Classe ssp50 did 2ch the best and i believe the only one that actually had a true analog pass thru for 2ch at the time. So the ssp-50 is definitley not any kind of weak link, its actually a very strong link. You gotta hear the main system thru the all Classe and Aerial 10t, pair of Rel Stadium II set-up. This i believe is also another reason why i was not impressed with the RS2/RA1, the main system sounds so good that the little can setup sounded like a transister radio compared to the main system. Anyway thanks for all the fantastic input and time spent to help me. Today the RS2/RA1 combo is exciting me with very good enjoyable sound. I decided on the RA1 because its portable and i can use it on the road. Also the dealer i purchased the combo from (Quest for Sound, 675 for RS2/RA1 incl ship) gave me the option of going with the RS1 (100 more, 775) if i decide to exchange from RS2 to 1. From what was said, i should opt to go with the RS1. The RS2 does sound pretty good though. I'm actually listening to the combo as i type and their sounding better and better as more time passes. I would recommend this headphone/headamp to anyone looking for great dynamic, detailed, smooth sound from a headphone/amp. Now, one last question, is it really worth the extra 100 for the RS1 ? What is the difference in sound ? Thanks to all, you have been much help.

Thanks Joe, yes Quest for Sound (Stephen) did give me a great deal. I also picked up a Panasonic SL-CT570 portable CD for only $88 incl ship (List 170) from www.onecall.com to use on the road. The 570 has some great reviews, one of the best sounding if not the best for a portable.

Hi Lorne, using ca300, cav75, CDT-1, tuner-1, sony 7700, Aerial 10t w/stands (rosewalnut,1yr old now), cc3, sr3, 2 rel stad 2s and a bunch of other sources, fm amp, sat DD, etc. Sounds great. Never listen to the ssp75 but understand it also has 2ch analog pass thru w/newer 24bit dacs and bal for all channels. Probably better sounding than my ssp50 which is great, 20bit dacs. Basicly the ssp50 is a cp50 and dac1 with surround processing. Thanks for all the help. Mike