Question about Headphone amps
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RamblinE
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On vintage gear the headphone output is usually tied into the speaker outputs. These hp-outs were designed for the high-impedance headphones of the time and do not play too well with more modern lower impedance headphones. On newer gear a lot of the hp-outs are just simple op-amps which might not have enough juice to drive more inefficient headphones.
It's also a separates thing. Different people want different types of amplification whether it be tube or SS. Different headphone amps might have different sounds or qualities, or better synergy with a pair of headphones then a receiver or amp does.
If headphones are somebody's primary mode of listening, or even if they just enjoy both speakers and headphones then headphone amps are a way to tailor the sound and performance you want. I for one bought a headphone amp to act as a preamp because for me headphones are primary and speakers are secondary. While nobody was disapproving of the amp I was looking at I read at least one review of how well the amp pairs with AKG's K70x series headphones. That review sold me and I've been happy with the unit since it arrived
It's also a separates thing. Different people want different types of amplification whether it be tube or SS. Different headphone amps might have different sounds or qualities, or better synergy with a pair of headphones then a receiver or amp does.
If headphones are somebody's primary mode of listening, or even if they just enjoy both speakers and headphones then headphone amps are a way to tailor the sound and performance you want. I for one bought a headphone amp to act as a preamp because for me headphones are primary and speakers are secondary. While nobody was disapproving of the amp I was looking at I read at least one review of how well the amp pairs with AKG's K70x series headphones. That review sold me and I've been happy with the unit since it arrived
Ah, finally! Thank you for that explaination. That marble has been rolling around in my head for 2 years.
Speakers are my main listening mode and headphones are occasional. I have a nice pair of Sennhisers, I'll have to cheack to see if they are high or low impedance. I use them on my modern system and they sound pretty good, but I feel they could sound better. I have never tried them on my vintage system though, they may not like it. I rarely listen with headphones though.
Speakers are my main listening mode and headphones are occasional. I have a nice pair of Sennhisers, I'll have to cheack to see if they are high or low impedance. I use them on my modern system and they sound pretty good, but I feel they could sound better. I have never tried them on my vintage system though, they may not like it. I rarely listen with headphones though.
tjohnusa
Active Member
Many personal media players just don't have the balls to get "loud" depending on your headphones impedence....in addition some players have low quality amps. Most of the headphone amps are still op-amp driven but can have a 9volt batt to drive them allowing a higher watt output. A little history on headphone amps: The first amp was designed by a fellow named Chu Moy...you will see some amps named Cmoy because of this, instead of patening his design he released it for free to all and started the whole thing...very cool. If you look on ebay you will see many cmoy amps built into Altoid mint cans and depending on the op-amp used can sound quite clean. If you are able one can be built for under $20
The last thing I would want a headphone amp to do is get loud. I'm not looking to damage my hearing. My Onkyo receiver has a volume restriction built in for headphone use. It activates when you plug in the phones. Even that can get too loud. I'm careful with headphones. I also don't like my music loud either.
KevinCorr
Super Member
Huh????
No offense, but I would say it is rare to see a headphone jack on any piece of gear any more.
I have 5 integrated amps and only 2 have headphone jacks but they are both old. None of my newer amps have jacks.
I have 4 cd players with no headphone amp, plus 4 dvd players with out.
The only ones that have headphone jacks are two old cd recorders, a Tascam and a Pioneer.
I have at least 6 tuners with no headphone jack.
