Need help - headphone amp + phones decision/setup

[JeffNTaxes]

I'm running the system in my sig down there, Superphon Dual Basic > Superphon amp w/Systemdek TT mainly. I want to use the tape outs of the pre to a headphone amp so I can defeat the speaks and listen while the wife watches Dr. Pimple Popper in peace.

I believe the hookup scenario is sound (correct me if I'm wrong), but what amp + phones would you recommend on a $1,000 budget all-in?

 

[cratz2]

What are the main types of music you listen to?

And 'all kinds' doesn't count.

 

[KarlK]

What are the main types of music you listen to?

And 'all kinds' doesn't count.

He's right, seriously

 

[JeffNTaxes]

What are the main types of music you listen to?

And 'all kinds' doesn't count.

Good point. I suppose that when listening on cans I'd likely reach for Jazz ('Trane, Getz, Miles, Sharrock, Burrell, Wes), some great sounding classic rock recordings (Bowie, Jimi, Beatles), and some heavier stuff like Sabbath for flavor.

 

[JeffNTaxes]

Any recommendations appreciated.

 

[cratz2]

If you are to be in close proximity to your wife, I will assume you're going for a closed design or semi-closed.

My choice would be the ebony or mahogany Fostex TH-X00 from Massdrop/Drop when available. I wouldn't get the purple heart version. I haven't heard them but I understand they have some issues.

They are probably the best headphone for most people at $500 and way up there at the $1,000 price point. They basically sound like the Beyerdynamic 880 with definitely more bass extension, a slightly downtuned treble and they just do everything a bit better and that is a very good thing.

They are semi-open so someone next to you will be able to hear a bit of highs but at a radically reduced level so if she's watching TV or talking to someone on the phone, she won't be able to hear your music.

They don't really need much of an amp so a lower end Schiit or a Little Dot II would be a fine choice.