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Looking for a USB Headphone amplifier

I am currently using a Music Fidelity OBH21 amp with a V-DAC to drive AKG 701 headphones. Though this system provides detail, I would like to improve on the ’soundstage’ and add a little more bass.

To this end, I am looking for USB headphone amplifier and also may upgrade from the 701s. Would like to purchase the amp 1st, one that would support a headphone upgrade.

Any recommendations?

mesch
courant
119 posts
 
Have you looked at the PS Audio Sprout? It was just reduced to $500, which is within your posted price-point. It's an "all in one" that has both a headphone-out as well as speaker posts. I haven't tested one myself, but it has been receiving good reviews.

Hope that helps.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
If you live in the US, give The Cable Company a call. They have a lot of headphone amps/dacs in your price range. If you take advantage of their demo program, they'll send you a box full of demo units so you can try them all at once. They also sell your Creek, and will be able to make some comparisons for you.
mesch OP
3,530 posts
 
Courant, thanks for your reply. I am familiar with, and had considered, the sprout. However want a stand alone amp.

ZD, great idea, thanks! I should have thought of CC myself. I will give them a call.
mesch OP
3,530 posts
 
Any thought on the quality of the Benchmark DAC-1 as a headphone amp? As compared to my OBH-21?
kijanki's avatar
kijanki
4,453 posts
 
I bought Oppo HA-2 headphone amp recently and it sounds amazing. It has asynch USB, SPIDIF, DSD an analog in/out.  I use USB.  Sounds better than my Benchmark DAC1.  D/A converter IC is SABRE 32-bit. It has lithium battery and can be used with a phone, but I’m using it as stationary unit only (next to my computer).

https://www.oppodigital.com/headphone-amplifier-ha-2/
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