Some context
Headphones: HD6xx and Sundara
DAC: Topping D50s
Amp: JDS Atom
Pre-amp: JDS Subjective 3 (Usually in bypass mode)
Genre: Mainly Classical Music
Goal: outputting at the most accurate quality. Volume not a limiting factor
Hi folks,
There is a lot of talk about needing an Amp to get the full benefit out of headphones like HD6xx and Sundara (I have these two). However, I can easily reach comfortable listening level without maxing out the output of the Topping D50s using a RCA to 3.5mm short cable. I have never listened to a whole classical piece on max D50s volume because it's too loud for me, on both headphones.
My question is, is there measurable improvement in signal/sound quality if I add JDS Atom to the chain? My first thought would be no, because that would be adding an extra hop and potential distortion. If there is any noticeable distortion from D50s it would just get amplified by the amp. But I haven't come across a single audiophile who doesn't say something along the lines of "o you need a good amp to open up these headphones". Is there any measurable data to back this up?
TLDR: If the DAC is outputting a volume that is more than enough for me, can there be any objective/measurable improvement by adding an Amp to the chain? I can't say I have heard a definitive difference, but maybe the difference needs to be highlighted to me so I notice. Also hard to volume-match without specific equipment.
Headphones: HD6xx and Sundara
DAC: Topping D50s
Amp: JDS Atom
Pre-amp: JDS Subjective 3 (Usually in bypass mode)
Genre: Mainly Classical Music
Goal: outputting at the most accurate quality. Volume not a limiting factor
Hi folks,
There is a lot of talk about needing an Amp to get the full benefit out of headphones like HD6xx and Sundara (I have these two). However, I can easily reach comfortable listening level without maxing out the output of the Topping D50s using a RCA to 3.5mm short cable. I have never listened to a whole classical piece on max D50s volume because it's too loud for me, on both headphones.
My question is, is there measurable improvement in signal/sound quality if I add JDS Atom to the chain? My first thought would be no, because that would be adding an extra hop and potential distortion. If there is any noticeable distortion from D50s it would just get amplified by the amp. But I haven't come across a single audiophile who doesn't say something along the lines of "o you need a good amp to open up these headphones". Is there any measurable data to back this up?
TLDR: If the DAC is outputting a volume that is more than enough for me, can there be any objective/measurable improvement by adding an Amp to the chain? I can't say I have heard a definitive difference, but maybe the difference needs to be highlighted to me so I notice. Also hard to volume-match without specific equipment.