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Suggestions for pure headphone amp around $200?

I am looking for suggestions for a new to me headphone amp with a budget around $200, maybe a little more for the right unit.
I do NOT need a headphone/dac, it will be fed by RCA analog from the line out of my BAT integrated.
One requirement is that it also has RCA analog outputs, so a pass through if you like, my present el cheapo Monolith head amp has this and it is near essential in my set up right now.
My present cans are HiFiman 4xx purchased from Drop.
I may be looking at better cans for Xmas so there is that to bear in mind for the new head amp.
Thanks and stay safe!
128x128uberwaltz
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz OP
13,381 posts
 
Really grown to like and appreciate the strengths of the Beyer combo.
While bass is not ear pounding, it is tight and tuneful and plentiful.
Imaging is glorious and mids and highs are sharp and very well detailed.

Obviously still lower rung stuff compared to what some people have for headphone setups but quite a way elevated from my previous setup.
johnto
1,026 posts
 
The Dark Voice 336se is a nice tube headphone amp that can also be used as a preamp , priced in the $250 area.
mkgus's avatar
mkgus
324 posts
 
I like my Schiit Asgard 3 headphone amp with upgraded power cord. I drive a pair of HD650s. It’s got RCA out as well. 
213runnin
914 posts
 
Yeah, me too.  I know that the OP has made his purchase, but for those looking for ideas, The Schiit Asgard 3 is a great option for not a crazy amount of money.  I've got a few pairs of headphones, including the HIfiman Drop 5XX, and the Asgard allows such a gorgeous sound stage, wide and with distinct instrument placement.

I had the Schiit Vali 2 before and it's a great option as well, but the Asgard 3 allows more detail, and doesn't have the huge wall wart.  In fact, I bought the Asgard 2 on clearance because the Asgard 3 was so impressive.  The 2 is warmer sounding which gives a different option, depending on my mood.
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