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  3. 1282262997

Headphone Amp AND good Preamp

I searched the forums and found some threads on the subject, but they were either too old or not quite on point, so I thought I would ask.

I am selling my "big rig" and intend to live on headphones and powered monitors in my study. So I need a good headphone amp, preferably tubed (for either Senn 650 or AKG 701), that is also a good preamp for powered monitors.

I like classical (symphonic and chamber) jazz (acoustic and electric) and some pop rock, etc. (in that order). Dynamics are key, as is good frequency extension at both ends. So I am thinking transformer coupled, but can be convinced otherwise.

Candidates so far are the Cayin HA-1A, Musical Fidelity X-Can V8 (if it still exists), Woo WA2 (would prefer the WA6 but it has no outputs), Mapletree + HD.

It is difficult to read anything about the preamp capabilities of these devices, so help would be appreciated.

I would thoroughly welcome recommendations in the under $1,000 range (or slightly higher), and the reasons.

Thanks so much!!!

Rush
seldenr

Showing 1 response by seldenr

seldenr OP
59 posts
 
Thanks for the tips!! Yes, I spent many an hour at head-fi, and in fact that is how I found the Woo, Mapletree, Signalpower (although I have not been able to locate them) and a few others.

However, I do tend to think that the "typical" (if there is such a thing) participant in these Audiogon forums makes sound quality their ultimate consideration, so I thought I would get some Audiogoner opinions.

I had completely forgotten about the Peachtree, so good call. However, I am thinking that its principal purpose is an amp, not headphone amp (not sure if that is a valid point but it resonates with me) and I am set on obtaining an asynchronous DAC, so the money spent on the Nova DAC would be for nought. That means that 2 of its 3 functions would not be of use. But I really like the suggestion!!

Just today I confirmed that Woo Audio will add a preamp out to their model WA6 for $130, which means a SET, transformer coupled tube headphone amp with preamp outs for $750. Thoughts?
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