"So, as a start, I think I am going to go with the new V-DAC II and the Creek OBH-11. I will continue to use my AKG 240s. So $550 is a modest start, and I will see where to go from there.
What are your thoughts?"
Sounds Fine.
I've heard some AKG phones require a lot of power to sound best (not sure if those specifically).
Assuming this is the case, the only thing I might consider otherwise in your case is that this may a good time to consider a tube based headphone amp, if you can find one that meets your overall needs.
Why? A tube amp etnds to soft clip, which might enable you to drive inefficient phones more effectively and with less fatigue from a small box than SS perhaps.
Tube amps and good headphones can be a match made in heaven and can be a great way to test the waters of tube amplification if interested, IMHO.
Just be sure to keep a few spare tubes around in case.
With a SS amp, you probably have less to worry about in regards to maintenance though, so in your case, that may well be the best way to go.
What are your thoughts?"
Sounds Fine.
I've heard some AKG phones require a lot of power to sound best (not sure if those specifically).
Assuming this is the case, the only thing I might consider otherwise in your case is that this may a good time to consider a tube based headphone amp, if you can find one that meets your overall needs.
Why? A tube amp etnds to soft clip, which might enable you to drive inefficient phones more effectively and with less fatigue from a small box than SS perhaps.
Tube amps and good headphones can be a match made in heaven and can be a great way to test the waters of tube amplification if interested, IMHO.
Just be sure to keep a few spare tubes around in case.
With a SS amp, you probably have less to worry about in regards to maintenance though, so in your case, that may well be the best way to go.