Headphone Amp - 2 XLR inputs

Discussion in 'Advice Threads' started by Jigitz, Aug 28, 2021.

  1. Jigitz

    Jigitz New

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    Hey Y’all,

    I’m looking for some options for a headphone amp/preamp for my desktop setup that has two XLR inputs.

    I’m currently connecting my phono preamp via XLR to my jot 2 and my Bifrost 2 to the SE in.

    I located the Audio GD Master 19 and the crazy expensive Benchmark HPA 4.

    I’m wondering if you all know of any other options? I am looking to use it on my desktop.

    Thanks in advance!
     
  2. rhythmdevils

    rhythmdevils MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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  3. Jigitz

    Jigitz New

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    I was actually considering this as well. Any thoughts on if it would degrade audio quality?
     
  4. fraggler

    fraggler A Happy & Busy Life

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    Not sure if it is desktop-able, but either generation of the Schiit Ragnarok fits the bill.
     
  5. Jigitz

    Jigitz New

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    Indeed! I was debating that. I’m currently using a Bifrost 2 and a Vidar to drive my speakers. They at are 85db efficient. I was a little concerned about the rag having enough power to drive the speakers to their full potential.


    http://www.ascendacoustics.com/pages/products/speakers/luna/lunaspecs.html


    Would I be losing anything swapping out the Vidar for a Rag?
     
  6. rhythmdevils

    rhythmdevils MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    Worrying about the affects of that switcher and downgrading your amp because of it is crazy. That switcher is very likely completely transparent. And vetted by knowledgeable people here. Getting a switcher is the proper thing to do in this situation. Very common problem and this is the solution.

    This is ASR so take it with a grain of salt but better then nothing.

    https://www.audiosciencereview.com/...und-3-in-1-out-xlr-audio-switch-review.11062/
     
    Last edited: Aug 28, 2021
  7. Merrick

    Merrick A lidless ear

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    Here’s another option: https://goldpt.com/sw2x.html

    There’s a thread here where @atomicbob measures a Goldpoint passive pre and finds it to be virtually identical to the signal without the Goldpoint in the chain. Subjectively, I use a Goldpoint attenuator in my chain and cannot distinguish between the sound with and without it in the chain.
     
  8. rhythmdevils

    rhythmdevils MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    Nice I didn’t notice they had a balanced switcher. Added to my daisy chaining amps thread.
     
  9. GoodEnoughGear

    GoodEnoughGear Evil Dr. Shultz‎

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  10. Cspirou

    Cspirou They call me Sparky

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    when dealing with multiple XLR inputs, you're going to need a preamp or switcher at some point. Agree with @rhythmdevils that you shouldn't change your amp just because of the lack of inputs.
     
  11. rhythmdevils

    rhythmdevils MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    Think about this: how do you think an amp switches between inputs?

    If you get the goldpoint unit that we know uses good quality parts where exactly is the worry here? It could actually be better than whatever is inside the Phonitor to switch inputs.
     
  12. Jigitz

    Jigitz New

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    Lots of great information here guys. Thank you!

    I am currently torn between going the Audio-GD master 19 or getting the Goldpoint switcher. I have a lead on the master 19 used that I may bite on. I haven’t tried any of the Audio-GD stuff yet.
     
  13. Armaegis

    Armaegis Friend

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  14. rhythmdevils

    rhythmdevils MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    He's using speakers though.... I wish I could just make the OP buy the damn switcher already.
     
  15. Jigitz

    Jigitz New

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    Haha, I’m emailing with them! Gotta support those NorCal local businesses!
     

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