So it’s been a little while since I received the RNHP and I’ve had quite a bit of time to listen. My verdict is basically this is the best sounding amp I’ve owned. Coming from a Monolith THX 788 Desktop to this is not the biggest leap on most of my cans… This sound sig is not as “sterile” sounding as the 788 and a bit more “musical” with a neutral warm sound. I do prefer most of my collection on the rnhp vs the 788. Stuff like the 4xx and t50rp probably would be better off with the extra power of the THX, but the rnhp drives them fine regardless.
The Focal Clears is where it starts to get kinda ridiculous, the differences between the two is such a huge gap that based on this comparison I would think the rnhp would be a lot more money than it actually is. These cans just straight up sound better on the neve in every way. Better dynamics and layering, soundstage and imaging feel more surrounding and precise, Bass response while being not the most in quantity feels tighter and more pronounced. By far the biggest difference is tonality, the clears have more warmth and just sound full of life on the rnhp. Going back to the 788 with the clears after listening to this amp for almost a week was kinda painful in a way.
I’ve always believed that amps can change the way a headphone sounds, but never to this extent. I’m pretty astounded tbh. I’m sure there is probably a good deal of mental fuckery going on here as well, but hey if it sounds better…
definitely looking forward to pairing higher tier headphones with this amp in the future.