Is there any portable Amplifier only that worth so as to drive HD600 or K701?
Portable I mean without need to be connected to external power.
Thanks
Going back through this thread...
The Onix Alpha fits the bill. Has gotten great reviews although there are some issues.
First, I noticed that over time the USB-C socket became loose on my unit. (My fault and this isn't limited to the Onix Alpha. Not the best idea to use it while on the run, getting jostled around. )
If you want to run it off your phone, its great, although it doesn't work w all phones. It does work w an iPhone which is what I use.
As to an external battery... its something that makes a bit of sense. If you use it a lot... it puts a draw on your phone's battery. So it limits the life of your phone's battery due to the increased charging. (LiON batteries have a limit where they start to degrade.) Easier to use an external battery than get your phone battery replaced.
Not to mention... depending on the phone, you can get more power out of the USB-C connection.
@modder-6 ,
Sound wise? No.
Value (Bang for your Buck)? Maybe, but the Alpha seems to be the best, albeit w some issues. The IBasso DC Elite seems to be the best in terms of the latest reviews.
(But at 4X the price... almost at the Mojo2 prices)
I like the Mojo2, but their insistence to stick w older micro-USB connectors may not be the best decision. They could upgrade to USB-C which would be better and then sell an adapter for those who don't want to get a new unit.
While the OP focuses on power... there's more to a DAC than the AMP. CS vs ESS vs AKM vs Rohm for example. Then R2R and other designs. Not apples to apples in terms of sound and features.
I kinda like the xDuoo Pro that allows you to mod the op-amps, and switch out the different DAC boards. Its a beast, capable of powering any headphone you toss at it.
(Also size wise) Not a dongle dac.