Amp(dac) suggestions please :)

Equipment / Electronics / Gear / Accessories Headphone Amps
1

Alrighty, here goes.
So for the last couple of years, i’ve been using the NFB28.38 for every headphone I own, which works great.
But it’s been some time now, and i’ve decided I want something less neutral, altho i’m aware that the NFB28.38 isnt as neutral as dac/amps come.
I’m not getting into tube amps, since it’s impossible for me to switch tubes by myself thanks to physical disability.
So, what i’m looking for is a balanced(4,4 or XLR i don’t care) solid state AMP/DAC stack (not combo unit) that’ll give a more warm, fun sound than the NFB, while not cutting corners on the detail.
I’ve looked at the Topping D90 MQA + Topping A90 stack, and almost pulled the trigger untill i heard that there’s a noticeable noise floor on some IEM’s. Soo i’m kinda stuck now.

Headphones I own:
*ZMF Aeolus (saving up for Verite Closed)
*HD58X
*Sony MDR1am2
*Panda(soon I hope)

IEM’s i own/plan on owning:
*Blon BL-03
*Mangird Tea

*Custom MEST

I’m aware that this is a big ask, since its for both high impedance headphones, and sensitive IEM’s. Any recommendations are welcomed.

2

Just purely a suggestion, but maybe the iFi iCan Pro may be appealing. It has tons of power, can have a warmer sound if desired, and a built in iMatch. It should act as a Swiss Army Knife of amps imo.

2 Likes
3

What’s your budget?

A stack I’ve really enjoyed for a range of gear is the Cayin iDAC-6 MkII and iHA-6. Pretty black background for IEMs, and can drive about any full sized headphone as well, depending on which output/settings used. It’s not going significantly into the warm tuning, but it does offer a hint of warmth to an otherwise pretty neutral signature.

1 Like
4

I’d say a max of 2500 euros for a stack.
Thank you for the replies :slight_smile: Ill look into the Cayin and iFi options.