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Inexpensive headphone amplifier

I am looking to procure an inexpensive headphone amplifier to use with an old CD player.  My headphones are Grado Hemp.  Looking to keep below 400 dollars.

Options thus far Schiit Audio Vali 2 and JDS Element.

Like the idea of tube rolling so leaning towards Schiit.

But open to comments and suggestions.

Thanks

MP

rivinyl
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 

I see some better Schiit out there used on USAM. Just FYI.

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,604 posts
 

The Vali 2 sounds fine, somewhat tube sensitive. Good with an RCA clear top.

Mine has a bad power up surge. Ask if they have fixed that or keep cans of ears for first 20 seconds.

mlsstl
1,436 posts
 

while I don't have a Vali, I have several other pieces of Schiit gear and really like the way they approach things, and their sound quality is excellent, especially so for the price points of their various units.   The ONLY drawback I've bumped into so far is their stuff does run hot, so make sure you can give your unit some space.

analogj
105 posts
 

I've got a Schitt Mani (I think that's the model) I bought from a forum member a while back. It was built from a kit, if I recall correctly, and I got it to use with my Grado 325is cans, with great results. 

 

My new integrated has a headphone amp built in, so I'm going to sell the Schitt. IM me if you might be interested.

 

Jeff

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,018 posts
 

The Musical Fidelity LX2 HPA is an overlooked gem of a headphone Amp. You may still be able to find one new, maybe.. they made a great bunch of small box components prior to being bought out by pro-ject. That would include the awesome little V90 dac.

 

Here ya go, 2 left on Amazon, from Audio Advisor...

http://Musical Fidelity LX2-HPA Headphone Amplifier (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079M4KRNZ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_3JB54V5BSMEZF8VB996B

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