The Gustard Audalytic AH90 seems like the perfect device for you. 1 watt of power at 32 ohms should be enough for 99% of the headphones out there. Balanced inputs and outputs. Roon Bridge installed. A nice DAC chip. $600
Help me spend $$$$
I recently decided to put together a headphone system for my office. I usually listen to my 2-channel system but it sits in my living room and my wife's office is adjacent so I can't listen to it most of the day and sometimes in the evening if she's working. I'm not looking to spend a ton but want something that sounds nice. I started by getting a used pair of LSA HP-1 (kennerton) headphones. I like open planars that are easy to drive. I'm currently using a Bluesound Node 2i as an all-in-one streamer/dac/amp. It sounds ok but I'd like to upgrade. Space is an issue as I don't have a huge desk, so I'd prefer an all-in-one. I'm ok continuing to use the Bluesound as a streamer but would like to get a better sounding amp and dac, but if I can also find something with airplay and Roon that would be best so I can use the Bluesound elsewhere and remove 1 box from the equation. My budget is about $800. Obviously would like to spend less but also willing to spend more if there's a great deal on something (max $1500). Always prefer to buy used as well.
Current top contenders are:
Matrix Element X
Mytek Brooklyn+
Audio GD -- so many models -- R28, R29, D28.38
Aune N7D
Any other suggestions?
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- 32 posts total
@travelinjack I use the A26 DAC currently and occasionally use the network renderer. I had no idea this product existed. It appears that it uses much of the A26 components. This would fit exactly what @abd1 is looking for all in one unit. |
Sometimes a feature, or comfort will be more important than 'the best' I had some Folding Wireless Headphones that I used in my main system late at night, and when I was in the hospital for 11 days, I wore them over ear plugs to get better rest in the ICU which is the last place to go for rest. Wireless freedom of movement; snug enough to stay on while moving; not too tight. Get a Haircut! |
I appreciate the great recommendations from the community. I feel like the world of headphones and associated equipment is another audiophile rabbit hole I can easily fall in to. I've been using the LSA HP-1''s with the node and it sounds pretty good. I like how comfortable the headphones are which is a big deal for me and my big head, so I'll probably stick with them for a while. I did order a Matrix Element X from TMR to try out. It was a "flagship" product from them a couple years ago and the price was outstanding compared to historical second hand market sales so it was hard to turn down. If I don't like it they have a return window and then I may try something else but we'll see how this sounds. I'm hoping it is a significant upgrade from the node. |
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