Using headphone output from an intergrated amp

I agree about SS integrateds. However, most integrated amps have poor to mediocre headphone amp sections. Some of them are ok. If you are really into headphones, I strongly suggest picking up even a cheap used dedicated headphone amp. Of course, depending on how hard your phones are to drive, your results will vary greatly. You can pick up a new Creek starting at $199, or a used MF V-Can, and many others. I hear great things about Woo and Audio-GD. I commend you to check out head-fi.org, both for recommendations and used gear.

Thank you,guys. Mateored's answer leads me to another question I have that's dedicated HP amp VS intergrated amp HP section.

I have the modest Pioneer Elite A 35R and the Rotel RA 1062 and so far I am okay with the SQ. My HP are the Senn. HD280 pro, Audio Tech. ATH A700 and both are closed HP. I will be receiving the Senn HD 595 from Amazon in a couple days. The HD 650 is much better as I read but I want to take time to test the water.

I have been into headphones for many years and owned many different headphones and dedicated headphone amps. I also happen to own the Pioneer A35R and the Senn 280 Pro's.

The headphone out on the Pioneer is dreadful. You may not think so, but if you've ever heard a decent HP amp, you would. The Senn 280's are not difficult to drive, but have a limited upside as to what they can deliver.

I would suggest you pick up a used Senn 580 or 600, and a modest tube amp, such as a Little Dot or Antique Sound Lab to get a taste of what headphone listening can really offer. To learn more, check out Head-fi.org. And... sorry about your wallet.

Davetherave is so right.

Headphone amps make a huge difference- and I've owned at least 20, both tube and Solid State. I was convinced it was tubes only for me after much experimentation, then I met the Burson HA-160, which I own now. I'm just intoxicated with the Burson and music is even more pleasurable than before.

But you don't have to lay down the coin for a Burson or better- The amps Dave mentioned are really good for little money, and you can find them used quite often.

Have fun!