SBAF Gear Lending Library

Correct, you can get a Jotunheim with no module (like mine - although it still has XLR and SE headphone connectors) or with a Balanced DAC or Passive Phono module. Neither of these modules effects the available headphone connectors though, just the plug-ins in the back of the Jot itself.

 

thank you for clarifying that @MattRG , I appreciate that!

 

@The Alchemist - don't even go there for HD800, though!

(Balanced is far less important than suitable, BTW, don't get hung up on it.)

 

@Kattefjaes - so what amp pairs well with the HD800 that is balanced but isn't an Eddie Current (Don't get me wrong, I would love an Eddie current, Black Widow, Etc, but my doctor bills and stuff are through the roof so I cannot afford anything like that right now)

DO you recommend a balanced amp that pairs well with the HD800 that isn't too awfully expensive? (Yes I know I need an expensive amp to get the most of the HD800, but money is extremely tight right now).

Any suggestions are appreciated.

Thank you for your post!

 

I know you're not Scrooge McDuck sitting on a pile of gold- and bluntly, I don't agree with the question. I don't think "balanced" should be a primary requirement. It makes things needlessly pricey and complex without gaining you much of value in this case.

Look for something that sounds good with the HD800 and which may be affordable, first and foremost. If that happens to be balanced, great- but really don't sweat it. Often, being balanced will just needlessly complicate the amp and drive the price up. There aren't many solid state amps that are really worth it with the HD800, and truly balanced tube amps of any quality can be big, expensive monsters.

The answer is to dive into this mega-thread:

http://www.superbestaudiofriends.or...s-for-the-sennheiser-hd800-2017-edition.3408/

..and get a feel for what folks suggest. Everything from the tiny Vali 2 up to exotic boutique amps are discussed. It should give you an idea of some nice options. However, let the "balanced" thing go. It won't contribute nearly as much to the quality of the sound as other factors.

That would be my honest opinion, based on a desire for you to be happy, and not waste your money. Good luck with the mega-thread, it'll keep you occupied for a bit!

 

Thank you @Kattefjaes

 

Oh and I'm an idiot- a more direct answer. I thought the Night Blues Mini sounded surprisingly great for the price with the HD800. That's a sub-$500 amp, if you can find one, though you'd need to run it with a 220-110v transformer.

 

HI. I filled out the form for Saga, but I haven't heard anything. Any chance of a loan?

 

Has this program already started? I thought it was still being organized because the OP hasn't been updated.

 

@Marvey , is the lending library still available to contributors?

 

Thanks! I would like to kicks the tires on the Lyraii if possible @sphinxvc

 

This is so cool!
Is the RSA phono available?

Thanks.

 

Isn't it the phono preamp he's already writing about? http://www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/phono-pre-shootout.4944/

 

I have a entry level simaudio lp3 so would be nice to hear how much a better phono pre would have...but can be patient if it's already out on loan.

 

Oh, screw me. Prashant borrowed that one from @PTS.