Quicksilver Headphone Amp

@glissando Couldn't agree with you more. I have been using the Quicksilver headphone amp for a few weeks now, and it is probably one of the most satisfying purchases I've made in the last few years. I'm just surprised that the reviews are so scant. Maybe the folks at Quicksilver rely more on word of mouth instead of professional reviews. Either way, these are keepers and a great foundation for any headphone rig.

@devilboy I’m actually using the Quicksilver HP amp with the Aryas. Prior to the QS amp, I used them with Naim Unitiqute, AAA THX 789 (now returned), and iFi Micro DSD Black Label. A few issues I had with the Aryas was that sometimes they tended to sound just a little on the thin side, slightly distant and the bass heft was lacking every so slightly. The QS amp addressed each and every concern and then some. I absolutely love the hefty, lush and rich sound I’m getting now. But by far the biggest improvement was the quantity and quality of bass -- these amps take it to a whole new level and make them more musical than before. Also, I feel the midrange and vocals are more intimate than before. I moved from the fifth or sixth row in the auditorium to third or second which is about as close as I want to go with the Aryas.

But keep in mind that none of the other amps I tried before were particularly high end. Plus I’m very partial to the tube sound. So take that with a grain of salt. YMMV.

@devilboy -- I had the Quicksilver headphone amp for a few months. I only sold it because I spent two much on the 2 channel setups in my house and needed some cash quickly.

I had the opportunity to listen to the Pass Labs HPA-1 a few months ago. I actually took my Aryas to the seller's house for auditioning. Let me just say this -- there is no comparison! As good as the Quicksilver is, the HPA-1 just digs out the details better but yet never loses its composure or sound harsh at any point. They simply made my Aryas sound even bigger and wider than with the Quicksilver.