Headphone amp low-volume listening

[JackStraw5877]

Hi Folks,

Apologies in advance if this has been covered somewhere else, as I was unable to locate a relevant thread...

I enjoy low-volume listening and was wondering what the most relevant measurements in headphone amps I should be paying attention to?

SINAD at low output? Channel balance?

Also, any specific model recommendations for HP amps in this context would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Dreyfus]

THD + N (especially noise!) at low impedances. You also should pay attention to the channel balance when analog volume controls (pots) are used. A low-gain or input attenuation selection can help to alleviate the distortions with sensitive headphones. It will also make finer volume adjustments much easier.

What is your budget?

 

[JackStraw5877]

Thank you Dreyfus,

I feel fortunate that at this time my budget allows for the Benchmark HPA4 (I also need preamp for actives/power amp for passives). This is my absolute max budget ($3,100 USD).

However I am also interested in RME ADI-2 and Topping A50/D50 combo.

My cans are Focal Clear Pro and ZMF Auteur in the future (hi and low impedance).

Hope this helps, and thanks again for the reply.

 

[Dreyfus]

RME ADI-2

Yes.

 

[JackStraw5877]

Your recommendation doesn’t have anything to do with the country whence it was sent, does it?

Joking aside, I seem to continue coming back to the RME, and this would certainly save me some money.

Thanks again kind Sir.

 

[RayDunzl]

However I am also interested in RME ADI-2

The RME has a headphone out.

I should think it would be sufficient for your low volume listening.

My Benchmark's phone out is.

Using a Focusrite 4 Pre USB's headphone out now - just because.

I don't have a standalone "headphone amp", just devices with headphone outputs.

Disclaimer: I've not been driven insane with headphone fantasies, and use HD650 , "the safe choice".

 

[JackStraw5877]

Good feedback Ray, thanks.

The Benchmark’s channel matching looks so solid, especially for analog.

I just can’t help but think about how the price differential between the HPA4 and RME could allow me to buy more cans/better speakers.

It’s interesting that you’re recommending the RME as an HPA4 user...

 

[Dreyfus]

I like RME for their exemplary driver support, build quality and technical robustness. The ADI-2 is a very well designed piece of hardware which will serve you for a long time. I just bought a used PCI-based Multiface which was released around 2008. Still works flawlessly with Windows 10. There is a good reason for the low price decline of their products.

Your recommendation doesn’t have anything to do with the country whence it was sent, does it?

Shhh, no worries!