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What headphone amp to use with Sennheiser HD800?

I just bought the new Sennheiser HD800 headphones and I would like feedback from other HD800 owners. Which headphone amps have you used with the HD800's and which they selected and why? I live in a very remote area and I am about 300-400 miles away from the closest high end audio dealer. Your suggestions and comments would greatly be appreciated to help me in choosing a headphone amp for these incredible headphones.
svrtim
ejr1953
899 posts
 
I used to have a Bryston BHA-1, connected to my previous McIntosh C50 preamp (not enough "umph" from its built in preamp) with the balanced connectors.  I don't use headphones very often, so I sold the Bryston to someone who really enjoys it.
When Tidal started streaming MQA, I purchased a Mytek Brooklyn DAC and the headphone amp in that baby has a LOT of power!  So, it's become my headphone amp of choice, powering my HC800's.
nycjlee
286 posts
 
I use an Ayre Codex DAC/amp in balanced mode with a pair of Sennhesier HD650 and they sound great.  Works well as a standalone DAC. 
stewart0722
184 posts
 
I have had Burson Soloist w/ the warmer of the 2 dacs offered.
I found it a bit bright w/ LCD-X

Used the McIntosh MHA100, and it was great, but more expensive
than I felt was a great value, so I sold it and broke even.

I now use the Bryston BHA1 with a Bryston BDA2 and it is a great great match for the LCD-Xs and I'm sure would be also for the Sennheisers...
I've heard good things about the Ayre Codex.
If you don't need a built in DAC, you might look at Wells Audio's headphone amps......have heard them at RMAF and they are probably the ones to beat overall in my opinion.........if you go tubes, I'd go Decware Taboo


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