Headphone amp?


I would like to add high quality headphones to my system, which consists of a Pass  Labs XA30.8 and XP-20 preamp, and SoundScience Music Vault plus speakers. Do I need a headset amp or is there some other way to use say, a pair of HD800s phones? I could in a pinch plug in to my CD player but I doubt it would be as good my amp/preamp. What would the cognoscenti suggest?

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@stringreen I use my equipment as a vehicle to listen to my music as you do.

 

Whats the issue here?

@stringreen ,

"Do you people listen to your equipment or to music?"

Both.

Many headphone amps sound different from one another. Some warmer, others, leaner. Some are more detailed than others. Each preferred by an individuals` taste.

I listen to equipment when I am in an upgrade cycle… after that only the music.

However, it is easy to get seduced with details and slam at the expense of rhythm and pace / musicality. Then your final system is only enjoyable to listen to the equipment… this leads to… ok, I listened to my one album and go do something else. Also, constantly seeking out better recorded albums. As opposed to finding it hard to drag your self away from your system almost regardless of what is playing.

I listen to music three hours a day… and have to drag myself away from it each time.