Any thoughts on the Woo WA11?

I have spent at least 15 years putting together my headphone system. I have used Woo amps for most of that time. If in a similar position I would invest in a Woo without hesitation.  Also, one of my primary headphones is Focal Utopia. 
 

Your kid is really lucky. I would have enjoyed a few bucks for tuition. The WA8 looks incredible, I would buy that for myself.  Maybe I will. I use a A&K SP1000 DAP with my Focal Utopia, I am pretty sure the WA8 will blow away the amp on my DAP. 
 

I think your son would be happy with either. 

Thank you for your encouraging response. And you're so very right that he's lucky. I never had anything like that at his age; in fact, when it comes to headphones, I don't have anything like that at my age! He's a music major, passionate about listening and creating. He worked hard for the headphones and I'd like to give him an amp for Christmas. (I know you weren't asking for an explanation but there it is!)

 

At his age I had a set of 15 pound... well they felt like it... Koss that gave everyone who wore them a splitting headache from the weight and poorly cushioned head band.

Are you looking for just an amp or an amp/DAC combo?