# Amplifiers **URL:** https://forum.headphones.com/c/amps/48.md [Latest](https://forum.headphones.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://forum.headphones.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://forum.headphones.com/tags.md) --- ## [About the Amplifiers category](https://forum.headphones.com/t/about-the-amplifiers-category/1568)
**Author:** [@taronlissimore](https://forum.headphones.com/u/taronlissimore)\ **Replies:** 27\ **Last updated:** [November 18, 2023, 10:43pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/about-the-amplifiers-category/1568 "2023-11-18T22:43:40Z")
The place for general discussion about headphone amplifiers and analog components --- ## [Singxer SA-1 with DC bypass mod - what's the risk?](https://forum.headphones.com/t/singxer-sa-1-with-dc-bypass-mod-whats-the-risk/27503)
**Author:** [@MichaelJames](https://forum.headphones.com/u/MichaelJames)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [October 26, 2026, 11:17pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/singxer-sa-1-with-dc-bypass-mod-whats-the-risk/27503 "2026-10-26T23:17:48Z")
Hi all, hoping someone might know the answer a few questions about my Singxer SA-1. The TL;DR is: What is the risk of getting DC through my Singxer SA-1 with DC offset bypass mod (fed by my PC connected to my Chord Moj… --- ## [Entry level tube amp for ZMF](https://forum.headphones.com/t/entry-level-tube-amp-for-zmf/25800)
**Author:** [@Markm](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Markm)\ **Replies:** 27\ **Last updated:** [October 16, 2026, 6:22am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/entry-level-tube-amp-for-zmf/25800 "2026-10-16T06:22:44Z")
Most of my headphones are low impedance other than my LCD-3. I’m interested in the ZMF Bokeh. I understand tube amps are recommended for ZMF even though the Bokeh is easier to drive. I don’t want to break the bank for a … --- ## [What makes a good headphone amplifier in your opinion?](https://forum.headphones.com/t/what-makes-a-good-headphone-amplifier-in-your-opinion/24933)
**Author:** [@Nightjar](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Nightjar)\ **Replies:** 91\ **Last updated:** [September 17, 2026, 8:49pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/what-makes-a-good-headphone-amplifier-in-your-opinion/24933 "2026-09-17T20:49:57Z")
I’m sorta kinda newer to the whole headphone avenue since I primarily listen to speakers. But I have listened to a few headphone amps and have two. I’m a bit fan of Benchmark products as I find them to not just be engi… --- ## [Power/Line Conditioner](https://forum.headphones.com/t/power-line-conditioner/2658)
**Author:** [@Lalakai](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Lalakai)\ **Replies:** 37\ **Last updated:** [August 15, 2026, 4:14pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/power-line-conditioner/2658 "2026-08-15T16:14:22Z")
I’m extrapolating from other situations where a good smooth power supply is critical, and not sure if the same applies here. The AC power in most houses is rather “dirty”; even though it comes from the grid, it’s not a … --- ## [Sennheiser HD 800s & ifi Zen Can3 & Marantz Cinema 30](https://forum.headphones.com/t/sennheiser-hd-800s-ifi-zen-can3-marantz-cinema-30/27279)
**Author:** [@Greatestboss](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Greatestboss)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [July 8, 2026, 11:07pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/sennheiser-hd-800s-ifi-zen-can3-marantz-cinema-30/27279 "2026-07-08T23:07:34Z")
HI, Just bought the ifi Zen Can 3 to connect it to my Marantz Cinema 30 and Sennheiser HD 800s Headphones, I cannot figure what is the best way to connect all three, I’ve read in some places to use the balanced 4.4mm to… --- ## [Feliks Audio Envy](https://forum.headphones.com/t/feliks-audio-envy/15984)
**Author:** [@rex4539](https://forum.headphones.com/u/rex4539)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [June 28, 2026, 10:14am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/feliks-audio-envy/15984 "2026-06-28T10:14:13Z")
--- ## [The world of Dongles](https://forum.headphones.com/t/the-world-of-dongles/23325)
**Author:** [@SenyorC](https://forum.headphones.com/u/SenyorC)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [May 25, 2026, 2:48pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/the-world-of-dongles/23325 "2026-05-25T14:48:11Z")
As there are so many dongles appearing and not all of them will get much traction with their own thread, I thought I would start this one, a place where we can group together many of the options that appear on the market… --- ## [Class D amplifiers for Headphones](https://forum.headphones.com/t/class-d-amplifiers-for-headphones/22740)
**Author:** [@SenyorC](https://forum.headphones.com/u/SenyorC)\ **Replies:** 31\ **Last updated:** [May 5, 2026, 3:30pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/class-d-amplifiers-for-headphones/22740 "2026-05-05T15:30:56Z")
This topic is sparked by a post from @GoldenSound in another thread but which has me curious. So I would like to know more info on the subject and thought it may also be beneficial to others as it is a topic that I am no… --- ## [The case for long term listening vs. ABX with amps](https://forum.headphones.com/t/the-case-for-long-term-listening-vs-abx-with-amps/26994)
**Author:** [@SSN757](https://forum.headphones.com/u/SSN757)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [March 25, 2026, 8:17pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/the-case-for-long-term-listening-vs-abx-with-amps/26994 "2026-03-25T20:17:33Z")
Just read this article about amplifiers: Blind Test Results I’ve thought this to be the case for years. Finally, an audio engineer with a lot of street credibility has had a similar experience. --- ## [Introducing the WANDLA GoldenSound Edition!](https://forum.headphones.com/t/introducing-the-wandla-goldensound-edition/23029)
**Author:** [@GoldenSound](https://forum.headphones.com/u/GoldenSound)\ **Replies:** 24\ **Last updated:** [March 22, 2026, 6:33am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/introducing-the-wandla-goldensound-edition/23029 "2026-03-22T06:33:59Z")
I’m extremely excited to announce the WANDLA GoldenSound Edition! If you’re heading to CanJam NYC make sure to stop by the headphones.com booth and have a listen!! - Elevated digital headroom - Many moder… --- ## [AmpsandSound Amplifiers and Speakers builder](https://forum.headphones.com/t/ampsandsound-amplifiers-and-speakers-builder/10878)
**Author:** [@MRHifiReviews](https://forum.headphones.com/u/MRHifiReviews)\ **Replies:** 465\ **Last updated:** [March 14, 2026, 1:37am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/ampsandsound-amplifiers-and-speakers-builder/10878 "2026-03-14T01:37:18Z")
Here is an overview thread to discuss all things AmpsAndSound as requested by a few of you! --- ## [Schiit Jotunheim w/ Multibit DAC Module](https://forum.headphones.com/t/schiit-jotunheim-w-multibit-dac-module/2326)
**Author:** [@Leemore5745](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Leemore5745)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [February 13, 2026, 5:42pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/schiit-jotunheim-w-multibit-dac-module/2326 "2026-02-13T17:42:27Z")
I’m thinking about buying Schiit’s Jotunheim with the Multibit DAC. There haven’t been many reviews since the Multibit module became available 6 months ago. Would really appreciate anything you’ve heard or experienced wi… --- ## [Is a dedicated DAC necessary?](https://forum.headphones.com/t/is-a-dedicated-dac-necessary/6657)
**Author:** [@Panzer\_Applehusky](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Panzer_Applehusky)\ **Replies:** 26\ **Last updated:** [February 6, 2026, 1:23pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/is-a-dedicated-dac-necessary/6657 "2026-02-06T13:23:08Z")
I’ve been looking for a good DAC/AMP for around $100, but can’t find too much out there (suggestions appreciated) However, I have found a few good recommendations for amps around $100. My question is, if I go with just… --- ## [CEntrance AMP mini thread](https://forum.headphones.com/t/centrance-amp-mini-thread/25601)
**Author:** [@VariSami](https://forum.headphones.com/u/VariSami)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [January 7, 2026, 2:46pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/centrance-amp-mini-thread/25601 "2026-01-07T14:46:58Z")
Product page for AMP mini CEntrance finally managed to push their new tabletop amplifier in a Mac Mini form factor out. Mine is apparently production unit one, but they have also been doing other deliveries. In fact, Mi… --- ## [Kind Advice on Amp for my Sennheiser HD 800s](https://forum.headphones.com/t/kind-advice-on-amp-for-my-sennheiser-hd-800s/26187)
**Author:** [@Greatestboss](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Greatestboss)\ **Replies:** 20\ **Last updated:** [December 11, 2025, 2:14am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/kind-advice-on-amp-for-my-sennheiser-hd-800s/26187 "2025-12-11T02:14:17Z")
Hello Everyone, Just got promoted and my Birthday is coming up nest Sept. I’d like your kind advice to get myself a gift I’ve just bought a Sennheiser HD 800s Headphones and I’m looking for an Amp to pair it with. Plea… --- ## [Why isn't the Apple Dongle DAC good enough? (how to know your amp is underpowered?)](https://forum.headphones.com/t/why-isnt-the-apple-dongle-dac-good-enough-how-to-know-your-amp-is-underpowered/26666)
**Author:** [@Klute](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Klute)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [November 22, 2025, 2:30am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/why-isnt-the-apple-dongle-dac-good-enough-how-to-know-your-amp-is-underpowered/26666 "2025-11-22T02:30:31Z")
I have heard that there are many people who swear by this dac for most headphones, and even a few in the tech forum I frequent. But why isn’t it the bee’s knees? is this something that can be proven scientifically like … --- ## [My first IEM experience](https://forum.headphones.com/t/my-first-iem-experience/24924)
**Author:** [@mknewman](https://forum.headphones.com/u/mknewman)\ **Replies:** 22\ **Last updated:** [September 10, 2025, 12:13pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/my-first-iem-experience/24924 "2025-09-10T12:13:33Z")
I’ve been an audiophile for a long time, back to the reel-to-reel days, and recently decided to upgrade to a modern pair of headphones, went with the Edifier Stax Spirit S5, which are fabulous, and I got them pretty chea… --- ## [Tube Talk](https://forum.headphones.com/t/tube-talk/13799)
**Author:** [@Grover](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Grover)\ **Replies:** 123\ **Last updated:** [August 30, 2025, 10:46pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/tube-talk/13799 "2025-08-30T22:46:50Z")
This is the official thread to talk all things tubes! Information, education, triodes vs pentodes, great NOS finds, rolling, etc. --- ## [Schiit Mjolnir 3 Thread](https://forum.headphones.com/t/schiit-mjolnir-3-thread/25565)
**Author:** [@SSN757](https://forum.headphones.com/u/SSN757)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [August 19, 2025, 4:51pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/schiit-mjolnir-3-thread/25565 "2025-08-19T16:51:45Z")
Recently picked up a Schiit Mjolnir 3 headphone amp. This amp is an amazing performer. Provides a lot of flexibility with numerous options for configurations. It easily competes with my other headphone amp, which is a … --- ## [Best Portable DAC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/best-portable-dac/10953)
**Author:** [@TheFountainH3d](https://forum.headphones.com/u/TheFountainH3d)\ **Replies:** 56\ **Last updated:** [July 31, 2025, 5:44pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/best-portable-dac/10953 "2025-07-31T17:44:32Z")
Good morning, or evening depending on where my fellow audiophiles are residing. I wanted to create this thread to discuss our top picks and preferences for a DAC that satisfies the needs of someone who is on the go and i… --- ## [Caseten's Qudelix-5K Quick Start Guide](https://forum.headphones.com/t/casetens-qudelix-5k-quick-start-guide/17366)
**Author:** [@caseten](https://forum.headphones.com/u/caseten)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [July 24, 2025, 12:29am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/casetens-qudelix-5k-quick-start-guide/17366 "2025-07-24T00:29:51Z")
Qudelix-5K Quick Start Guide by caseten The Qudelix-5K is not user-friendly and will be frustrating to use initially. The amount of options in it’s App can be overwhelming at first. Be patient. It has a ton of features… --- ## [What would your ideal portable Head-Fi solution look like?](https://forum.headphones.com/t/what-would-your-ideal-portable-head-fi-solution-look-like/10313)
**Author:** [@eru\_illuvitar](https://forum.headphones.com/u/eru_illuvitar)\ **Replies:** 22\ **Last updated:** [June 5, 2025, 4:31am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/what-would-your-ideal-portable-head-fi-solution-look-like/10313 "2025-06-05T04:31:37Z")
So my mind has started to turn to a post-quarantine life (albeit prematurely) and it’s looking like my commute may go from ~30m to ~1h30m via public transit, depending on the house my fiancé and I buy. This got me to th… --- ## [Feliks Audio Euforia - Official Thread](https://forum.headphones.com/t/feliks-audio-euforia-official-thread/7613)
**Author:** [@Jsim](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Jsim)\ **Replies:** 71\ **Last updated:** [March 14, 2025, 2:48pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/feliks-audio-euforia-official-thread/7613 "2025-03-14T14:48:52Z")
This will be the official thread to discuss Feliks Audio’s flagship tube headphone amplifier; the Euforia. I will share my impressions here at a later point in time, once I’m confident about what I can share about it. … --- ## [Benchmark AHB2 - the power amplifier for your headphone (and a guide/walkthrough)](https://forum.headphones.com/t/benchmark-ahb2-the-power-amplifier-for-your-headphone-and-a-guide-walkthrough/16226)
**Author:** [@adnan0819](https://forum.headphones.com/u/adnan0819)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [January 2, 2025, 5:51pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/benchmark-ahb2-the-power-amplifier-for-your-headphone-and-a-guide-walkthrough/16226 "2025-01-02T17:51:17Z")
The Benchmark AHB2 is a power amp meant to power speakers. There seems to be an interest in it for hard to power headphone enthusiasts on the forum even though Benchmark makes the HPA4 which is a headphone amp. That said… --- ## [Musician DACs & Amps Discussion](https://forum.headphones.com/t/musician-dacs-amps-discussion/15457)
**Author:** [@antdroid](https://forum.headphones.com/u/antdroid)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [October 31, 2024, 8:10pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/musician-dacs-amps-discussion/15457 "2024-10-31T20:10:34Z")
This is the place to discuss products from “Musician” who have a line-up of DAC and Amp products including the Pegasus, Aquarius, Draco, Monoceros, Andromeda and MDP-2 streamer. Brand introduction MUSICIAN Audio Techn… --- ## [$300 Budget DAC/AMP Recommendations](https://forum.headphones.com/t/300-budget-dac-amp-recommendations/24325)
**Author:** [@Daim](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Daim)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [October 6, 2024, 4:16pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/300-budget-dac-amp-recommendations/24325 "2024-10-06T16:16:57Z")
Looking for recommendations for a DAC/AMP stack or combo unit. Some background, I’m more familiar with the world of headphones but want to have a sound system for when have guests over and we want to listen to music. So… --- ## [iFi AUDIO micro iTube2 Tube Pre-Amplifier, Buffer & Power Amp](https://forum.headphones.com/t/ifi-audio-micro-itube2-tube-pre-amplifier-buffer-power-amp/4683)
**Author:** [@MRHifiReviews](https://forum.headphones.com/u/MRHifiReviews)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2024, 12:11am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/ifi-audio-micro-itube2-tube-pre-amplifier-buffer-power-amp/4683 "2024-09-11T00:11:43Z")
I am curious as to if anyone has auditioned this product or currently owns it as a way to get a complimentary tube sound to their solid-state system? --- ## [Headphones & Amps: Balanced vs Unbalanced](https://forum.headphones.com/t/headphones-amps-balanced-vs-unbalanced/1551)
**Author:** [@Headfun](https://forum.headphones.com/u/Headfun)\ **Replies:** 85\ **Last updated:** [August 6, 2024, 5:59pm UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/headphones-amps-balanced-vs-unbalanced/1551 "2024-08-06T17:59:49Z")
Been doing a lot of reading about balanced vs unbalanced headphones and amps. Came across a paper published by Benchmark Systems about the myth of balanced headphone amps. The summary was: The result of balanced headpho… --- ## [Nautilus Flagship Personal Audio Tubed Integrated Amplifier ampsandsound](https://forum.headphones.com/t/nautilus-flagship-personal-audio-tubed-integrated-amplifier-ampsandsound/9502)
**Author:** [@MRHifiReviews](https://forum.headphones.com/u/MRHifiReviews)\ **Replies:** 69\ **Last updated:** [May 17, 2024, 4:26am UTC](https://forum.headphones.com/t/nautilus-flagship-personal-audio-tubed-integrated-amplifier-ampsandsound/9502 "2024-05-17T04:26:02Z")
This is the place to discuss the Nautilus Flagship Personal Audio Tubed Integrated Amplifier AmpsandSound “The Nautilus is our flagship Personal Audio Tubed Integrated Amplifier. The Story of the Nautilus is born of t… [Next page](https://forum.headphones.com/c/amps/48.md?page=1)