2. amps-preamps
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Would a Topping A90 or A90D be a significant upgrade from the A30 Pro?

Have been thinking about upgrading my headphone amp, which is a Topping A30 Pro. It's a pretty good amp for its price, driving my LSA HP2 headphones (got these from Underwood HIFI several years ago--I think they're made by Kennerton), delivering decent bass and excellent detail and resolution, though for me, just a bit clinical. I'm wondering if moving to an A90 or A90D would make any difference, or should I look elsewhere for something that fleshes out the sound a little more. I'm not really a tube guy and have no need of a built-in DAC. Looking in the sub-$1K range, new or used. Recommendations gratefully received. Thanks

cooper52
chayro
2,933 posts
 

I have a DX3 Pro+ and it’s not bad, but Topping is not particularly known for “fleshing out” anything. I would contact Apos Audio and ask their advice. They sell Topping and a lot of other headphone amps, so they might be able to steer you in the direction you’re looking to go. 

mlsstl
1,404 posts
 

If you think your current Topping is a bit "clinical" you might want to try one of the Schiit headphone amps. I have an Asgard and a Lyr 3 and think both are excellent sounding. The current version of the Lyr can be run without a tube. Schiit also just released the Kara preamp which includes a headphone amp. No tubes and it has been getting excellent reviews. 

 

cooper52 OP
160 posts
 

Here's a long overdue update on this thread: I did finally decide to upgrade from the A30 Pro to an A90D and I'm actually pretty happy with it. It powers my LSA headphones admirably and delivers a very precise image with lots of detail. No, it doesn't warm anything up, but it still sounds less clinical than the A 30. However, IMO the difference in performance is not as great as the difference in price might suggest. I hope some of you will find this helpful.

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