2. headphones
  3. 168183-13640

Inexpensive, neutral-to-warm sounding SS headphone amp?

Looking to get a headphone amp solely for evening listening after wife has gone to bed. 

Using modest (Grado SR225 phones). Although I've read these are considered bright
I've never experienced them as such but then, I'm particularly sensitive to fatguing highs
so I don't own any bright-sounding components.  

My DAC is Aqua La Voce S2. 

Budget: $200 new or used.  Two possibilities, so far;

Schiit Magni 
Geshelli Labs Archel2.5 Pro  

Any other suggestions? 
stuartk

Showing 5 responses by stuartk

stuartk OP
2,334 posts
 
Hi soix--

Thanks for your response. 

I've upped my budget to $400, so now I could afford a Jotunheim 2, for example.

Anything else come to mind??? 
 
stuartk OP
2,334 posts
 
Yes, indeed-- the Aqua DAC is on the warm side but my headphones are not...

I will probably try the Jotunheim first, see how I like it.

stuartk OP
2,334 posts
 
I'm very sensitive to highs, hence my (perhaps) over-concern with straying into fatiguing territory. . . 
stuartk OP
2,334 posts
 
I bought Jotunheim and am very pleased with the results. It seems to be an excellent pairing with the Aqua DAC-- very agile and detailed enough to suit me while still maintaining musicality. I will upgrade my headphones next year.  
stuartk OP
2,334 posts
 
Thanks, freediver.

I gave up tubes in both guitar amps and audio amps years ago.

I seem to have bad luck with tube gear compared to others and am no longer willing to deal with the headaches. 

I do appreciate your contribution, though!   
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