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low-fi consolidation solution for small desktop / low-volume listening - all-in-one

ampguy

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I have a working setup now, but would like to see if I can reduce space on a small desk - my sources are 2 RCA inputs right now, and I need both speaker and occasional headphone use. I don't need much power for either, I do have a pair of HD-6xx, but also have some < 100 ohm headphones I could use, and I don't listen to speakers or headphones loud in this setup. I would like gear that doesn't do pops though. One input is a Focusrite Solo, all computer audio goes through here, and it is also used for occasional microphone recording. The 2nd input is from a Chromecast audio puck using the 3.5mm line out to RCA stereo. This is a Roon audio source.

I currently have both inputs going into a Schiit SYS 2 input switcher, then into an a Sabaj a10h headphone amp, with line outs to a Fosi v3 amp to 2 home built Kanspea mini cabinets with full range 4" Fostex drivers. I never turn the Fosi up past about 10 or 11, and have the a10h setting on medium (L can also work), never the 3rd H2 high gain setting. I just don't listen loud here.

Curious if those of you who have used the Topping Mx3s or another headphone and speaker combined amp (pref. with 2 analog inputs, or one, and provisions for a toslink input) have had any luck? The Chromecast can also pass through optical using a mini toslink to full size toslink, and the Mx3s has an optical input, giving me an RCA from focusrite, and the optical for Roon usage. Would like to hear any pros or cons. I'm not looking for more power or higher specs, primarily basic functionality and consolidation of gear here. I just don't want pops or weird behavior from the mx3s.
 
I've got an SMSL AO300 and no problems with it, one stop shopping with the headphone and speaker support. I didn't notice any pop when changing bit rates. It's full sized though, photo included so you can see how it compares to the smaller MX3. The headphone jack sounded good though, plenty of power on it. The 4.4mm didn't seem any louder at the same volume, probably just there for convenience. I'll have to check it with a decibel meter though.

PXL_20240531_235933592.jpg
 
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