Advice: portable iOS Amp/Dac for HD650 and Clear

Hi there friends, long time no see. I’ve been quite happy with my GeekOut 450 + HD650 combi, but I’m looking to upgrade the next couple of months. As I’ve always gotten the best advice here, this is my obvious first stop!

I’m looking for a portable DAC/AMP combo that works with my iPad (and if possible iPhone) I’m fine with using a camera kit cable, but I want to avoid external powered usb hubs and mains power (where possible).

Budget is <1000euro. I’m looking for a neutral sound, and it should drive my HD650’s, Paradox and Focal Clear (future purchase). (And maybe Campfire Audio Andromeda in the future).

I am going to be stationary haha, its for in hotels, not 'on the run'.

Chord Mojo - People rarely agree on this one
Fiio Q5 - Seems just ok
Schiit - Doesn't make anything portable, maybe the Fulla 2
GeekOut - LHLabs seems to be bankrupt
Dragonfly Red - Seems good? Bit on the low side of the budget, but if its good its good.
OPPO HA-2 - Seems again just ok

There must be something out there that most would agree on is 'good' for 1000euro?


Many thanks,

Victor

 

Update just in case anybody is on the same search:

Chord Mojo, price is lowered, and seems quite alright for its price. Buy second hand
Schiit Fulla 2, semi-portable (good for hotels), not good for IEMS
GeekOut - Can't buy it anymore, I still have the 450 which is really quite good!
Dragonfly Red - Doesn't seem better than the Geek 450
OPPO HA-2 and Fiio I wasn't able to test.

The Campfire Audio Andromeda seems to be doing great out of the iPhone direct. Might want to look for a better DAC, but its hard to find a DAC/Amp combo that plays nice with such a low impedance!

I'm going to buy the Schiit Jutenheim with the Multibit DAC for home use with the HD650/Clear/Paradox. Could even look for a bag or some sort of protection and just bring the Jutenheim with me in the suitcase. Not sure if you can connect it directly to an iPhone or iPad with the Camera Connection Kit, but the Schiit website does seem to say so.

 

You should also consider the ifi iDSD Micro BL.