Recommendation for Portable Amp for iPhone and 2nd Gen Nano

March 31, 201016 yr

I use a HeadRoom Micro Stack to power my full-sized cans at my desktop. I use a RSA Hornet to power full-sized cans when I am not by my Micro Stack. I also use the Hornet with my Shure E4c, but not often, since they are easy to drive by my iPhone 3G or 2nd Gen Nano (there is some improvement, but nothing to jump up and down for).

What I'd like to get is something smaller than the Hornet. I would like for it to be from a vendor that is not known for long delays, poor communication, not keeping promises, etc. It can be from anywhere, as long as shipping to the U.S. is OK, but I'd prefer something shipped FROM the USA (does not need to be MADE in USA). Vendor should have a solid reputation for producing nice, reliable amps and other products.

As far as preferred sound, the amps I have are, if anything a bit warm (though not negatively so). The amps do well with my K601 and other fullsized phones (although I'd like to see what a less-warm-amp would do with the DT770/80). For this ultra-portable amp, I don't mind if the amp isn't known for being warm, but I don't want it to be too dry and lacking impact. Neutrality, although hard to find, would be cherished.

Thanks for your feedback. Oh, and price <=$300 US would be nice, too.

March 31, 201016 yr

HeadAmp Pico Slim

March 31, 201016 yr

I think you were looking for Head-Fi.org: Headphones, iPod earphones, portable audio, MP3 players, high-end audio

March 31, 201016 yr

RSA Tomahawk

March 31, 201016 yr

oooh! With optional jetpack module!

March 31, 201016 yr

oooh! With optional jetpack module!

That'll cost you $200K, though.

March 31, 201016 yr

And will be tube based. Of course, it also never will be delivered.

March 31, 201016 yr

Doesn't the Hornet seem like overkill for the K601?

March 31, 201016 yr

Why do these noobs always seem to think asking for advice here will be any better than asking for it at Head-Fi? :palm:

What I'd like to get is something smaller than the Hornet. I would like for it to be from a vendor that is not known for long delays, poor communication, not keeping promises, etc. It can be from anywhere, as long as shipping to the U.S. is OK, but I'd prefer something shipped FROM the USA (does not need to be MADE in USA). Vendor should have a solid reputation for producing nice, reliable amps and other products.

Might as well get the RSA Protector then.