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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
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
4,477 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/
mesch OP
3,530 posts
 
Thanks kijanki, I took a look at the Oppo.  I have not made any move as of yet.  I am keeping an eye on the used market.  



mesch OP
3,530 posts
 
I purchased a used Schiit Vahalla tube headphone amp here on AG. I will use it with a Music Fidelity V-DAC II and MHDT Paradisea+ DACs. Currently to drive my AKG 701Q headphones.  One day I what to try a Audezen headphone however not sure the Vahalla does well with phones having ~30ohm impedance, as do the Audeze models. 
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