2 channel vs headphones

@larsman PS Audio BHK preamp. I probably could improve their performance with a specialized HP amp, but I far prefer to listen without HP. I have invested enough in a non starter… for me… if for no other reason than the negative effect on tinnitus.There are better headphones, but there also are better speakers. I think I have an apples to apples comparison. 

BTW, I use my high quality hearing aids for all listening. Thanks. 

On the BHK headphone amp Gemini summarized the reviews as follows…

The BHK Signature Preamplifier is frequently cited not just as a world-class line stage, but as hosting one of the most capable built-in headphone amplifiers in the high-end audio market. Unlike many preamps that treat the headphone jack as an afterthought, Bascom H. King designed this as a dedicated, discrete Class-A MOSFET stage. 

Reviews consistently highlight that the headphone output isn't just "good for a preamp," but rivals many dedicated external headphone amplifiers in the $1,500–$2,500 range.

Thank you all for your thoughtful and detailed responses!! I will check out all of these systems and HP options! 

For variety I have both, but have not setup my headphone/desktop system yet. I moved and 2-channel setup is the higher priority.

My desktop/headphone has tube+dac, and a digital player for SS. Various headphones including Focal Clear, Audeze i4 (planar). 

We just had a house full of company for several days and since I had a streak of insomnia was doing more headphone listening than I had done for a long time and therefore reflected a bit on this topic.  It’s a different experience than listening to speakers.  There is a lot of detail on offer but some sacrifices in the sound field.  Hall resonance is over prominent, the space between instruments seems a bit in natural, and I still don’t care for the hole in the head phenomenon (no jokes, please).  However I understand the appeal of headphone oriented listening and particularly if one has restrictions in terms of neighbors, etc