Amlifier for audio technica AD2000.

[dupo]

Hello,

I would like to get your recommendations for a headphone amplifier with a built-in DAC for Audio-Technica AD2000 headphones. The headphones have a sensitivity of 102 dB and an impedance of 40 ohms. If there's a small USB amp-DAC that can handle this, it would be preferable, but I will also consider larger desktop amps if needed. I’m looking to spend between 50 and 300 USD for this equipment.

I would be thankful to receive your recommendations.

Adam

 

[staticV3]

Hi @dupo! Welcome to ASR.

First, I would try the Topping DX1. It's a very transparent "reference" DAC+Amp, which should have no issues driving the AD2000.

If you feel like the AD2000 may benefit from some bass boost, then take a look at the iFi uno or Zen Air DAC.

 

[solderdude]

Hello,

I would like to get your recommendations for a headphone amplifier with a built-in DAC for Audio-Technica AD2000 headphones. The headphones have a sensitivity of 102 dB and an impedance of 40 ohms. If there's a small USB amp-DAC that can handle this, it would be preferable, but I will also consider larger desktop amps if needed. I’m looking to spend between 50 and 300 USD for this equipment.

I would be thankful to receive your recommendations.

Adam

102dBmW and 40ohm = 116dBV is quite sensitive so requires max. 2V so a 100mW amp in 32ohm is all that is needed,

 

[dupo]

102dBmW and 40ohm = 116dBV is quite sensitive so requires max. 2V so a 100mW amp in 32ohm is all that is needed,

Thank you solderdude. Can you recommend on a few decent amplifiers that meet this criteria?

 

[solderdude]

I think most amplifiers even smaller portable ones can do this.
Even a dongle that has 2V out can drive this particular headphone.

 

[dupo]

I think most amplifiers even smaller portable ones can do this.
Even a dongle that has 2V out can drive this particular headphone.

Thank you.
If I'm using the AD2000, which will always be connected to my laptop and won’t be used outside my home, should I prefer a dongle or a portable amp?
and What to you think about TANCHJIM SPACE as a dongle foe the AD2000?

 

[dupo]

Hi @dupo! Welcome to ASR.

First, I would try the Topping DX1. It's a very transparent "reference" DAC+Amp, which should have no issues driving the AD2000.

If you feel like the AD2000 may benefit from some bass boost, then take a look at the iFi uno or Zen Air DAC.

Thank you very much for your answer and the for having me

 

[solderdude]

amps like the FiiO BTR5 (which has internal parametric EQ) and Tanchjim Space will do more than fine and even the Qudelix 5K is an option.

That said... when you are planning to buy another headphone in the future that isn't as sensitive as this one you might want to invest in a desktop DAC/amp.

Since you are always going to use it with a laptop why not just buy an amplifier only and use the DAC from the laptop. In most cases those will be more than sufficient in sound quality.