Bang-for-buck amplifier for HD650

[Sensetrigger]

I need an amp only for Sennheiser HD650.

In local stores I can buy a few amps, and there is a JDS Labs Element II (B-stock) for $415. But I think that I don't really need a new DAC right now (maybe later). My current DAC is Realtek ALC1220 with ESS Sabre ES9023P (sounds clear, no complaints).

 

[Robin L]

Topping L30.

 

[raistlin65]

Atom will easily drive HD650 on low gain, and it arguably measures noise and distortion free within the range of human hearing:

https://www.audiosciencereview.com/...ents-of-new-jds-labs-atom-headphone-amp.5262/

Now you could spend more money for a more accurate amp, but your ears won't hear the difference. Atom easily meets the threshold for the highest fidelity that you can perceive.

Now if you can get the Topping L30 for cheaper, I would go for it. Also considered audibly transparent.

 

[M00ndancer]

Now if you can get the Topping L30 for cheaper

That's the keyword, cheaper. Other than that, esthetics, materials and functions.
I like the design of the L30, the Atom feels cheap (lots of plastic) but are as good as the L30.

 

[solderdude]

All of them will work well with the HD650.

As mentioned also consider the Topping L30.
Choose the one that fits in your budget, has the functions you need/want.
The DV will sound noticeably different.

 

[raistlin65]

That's the keyword, cheaper. Other than that, esthetics, materials and functions.
I like the design of the L30, the Atom feels cheap (lots of plastic) but are as good as the L30.

I don't notice that the Atom feels cheap just from turning the knob. Been using it for over a year now.

I didn't like the tiny toggle switches on the L30. They seemed made for action figure hands, and I worried about durability. And the interface on the front of the L30 is somewhat awkwardly designed. So I returned it and kept the Atom.

 

[FrantzM]

Atom... I bought it for $99 shipping to the USA included. Drive anything out there including the HE6 but ... I continue to think the HE6 needs more power ...

 

[Sensetrigger]

Thanks, guys! I found a L30 for about $115, so I'm gonna buy it. I don't think it worth to overpay about $30 for an Atom.

 

[daftcombo]

The JDS Lab Atom impresses me everyday.

 

[raistlin65]

Thanks, guys! I found a L30 for about $115, so I'm gonna buy it. I don't think it worth to overpay about $30 for an Atom.

Having tried both, I agree. you'll be getting an excellent amp for the money with the L30.

 

[Bald1]

I've been using and loving a Garage1217 Project Polaris v1.1 SS headphone amp w/"Mellow" bandwidth option with my Sennheiser HD600, Sennheiser HD580 (w/HD650 drivers, HD600 grills), and Philips SHP9500 w/2mm felt mod.

This was designed by our own solderdude.