Do I need an headphone amplifier?

[erasmus666]

It would be much appreciated if someone could help me with the following query: I have a Marantz PM6005 amplifier. I'm planning to upgrade my headphones to Beyerdynamic DT880's. Ideally for classical music I need the semi-open version. However, these run on 600 ohm and Marantz technical support have suggested that I may need to get an headphone amplifier if running on 600. The headphones running on 250 ohm wouldn't need an amplifier but would be closed ear which aren't apparently as good for listening to classical music. So there seems to be a trade-off between sound quality and expense incurred in buying an headphone amplifier if needed. Thank you for taking the time to read all of this and I look forward to reading your comments and suggestions.

 

[Jasonovich]

It would be much appreciated if someone could help me with the following query: I have a Marantz PM6005 amplifier. I'm planning to upgrade my headphones to Beyerdynamic DT880's. Ideally for classical music I need the semi-open version. However, these run on 600 ohm and Marantz technical support have suggested that I may need to get an headphone amplifier if running on 600. The headphones running on 250 ohm wouldn't need an amplifier but would be closed ear which aren't apparently as good for listening to classical music. So there seems to be a trade-off between sound quality and expense incurred in buying an headphone amplifier if needed. Thank you for taking the time to read all of this and I look forward to reading your comments and suggestions.

This might interest you, there is the semi-open design which are only (only!) 250 Ohms - see link below.

beyerdynamic DT 880 Edition Headphones, 250 Ohms at Gear4music

beyerdynamic DT 880 Edition Headphones, 250 Ohms at Gear4music

www.gear4music.com

Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Semi-Open Headphones

Get the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Semi-Open Headphones at Andertons Music Company today!

www.andertons.co.uk

If you can stretch your budget the Beyerdynamic Amiron open design 250 Ohms are excellent sounding headphones. I have these plugged into my tube head amp, most impressed by these cans.

I believe Richer Sounds are doing a deal - see link.

Beyerdynamic Amiron Home

Shop for Beyerdynamic Amiron Home Over Ear Open Back Headphones with Richer Sounds for expert advice and Lowest Prices Guaranteed

www.richersounds.com

 

[Stuart.W.D]

The Beyerdynamic DT 880 (semi-open version) is a fantastic choice for classical music due to its neutral and transparent sound signature. The DT 880 comes in various impedance options (32, 250, and 600 ohms), and the choice of headphone amplifier will depend partly on the impedance of your specific pair, as higher-impedance versions require more power to drive effectively.

Recommended Headphone Amplifiers for Beyerdynamic DT 880 (Semi-Open)

Have a look at the entry Schiit gear:

Magni - END-GAME HEADPHONE AMP WITH MODULAR DAC OPTION - Schiit Europe

Insane sound and performance for all headphones. Modular, non-obsolescent design. 100% linear power supply. 50% longer warranty. No off-the-shelf amp chips. Meet the all-new Magni Unity, the only affordable, fully discrete headphone amp and preamp on the planet—with an optional internal Unison...

www.schiit-europe.com

iFi Zen CAN - It offers a warm-leaning sound that can balance the DT 880’s brightness while maintaining detail.
The slight warmth enhances the midrange (vocals, piano) and smooths the treble, making it less fatiguing for long classical listening sessions. The soundstage is wide, benefiting orchestral works.

Driving Capabilities: 9 (Handles 250 ohms effortlessly, scalable to 600 ohms)
Midrange: 9 (Warm and rich, great for string sections)
Treble: 8 (Smooths the DT 880’s treble peaks effectively)
Bass: 8 (Deep and textured, XBass optional for emphasis)
Soundstage: 8 (Wide and immersive, ideal for symphonies)
Smoothness: 9 (Warmth adds a velvety touch)
Estimated Price ~£170–£190)

Topping A90 Discrete
It’s overkill for 250 ohms but perfect for audiophiles seeking precision.
Matches the DT 880’s transparency with a pristine signal path, excelling in midrange clarity, and treble detail (flutes, piccolos). The soundstage is expansive, ideal for large-scale classical works.

Driving Capabilities: 10 (Overpowered for 250 ohms, future-proof for 600 ohms)
Midrange: 9 (Highly detailed and natural)
Treble: 9 (Crisp and airy, may highlight DT 880 treble peaks slightly)
Bass: 8 (Precise but not overly warm)
Soundstage: 9 (Wide and deep, excellent for orchestral imaging)
Smoothness: 8 (Clean, though less warm than tube options)

TOPPING A90 Discrete Headphone Amplifier

Fully discrete NFCA also create wonderful amp As its name, A90 Discrete uses fully discrete components toredesign the NFCA (Nested Feedback Composite Amplifier)module. 4 built-in NFCA-Discrete modules which each themuses 39 transistors build up fully balanced structure.Theoptimized Voltage...

shenzhenaudio.com

FiiO K7
A balanced DAC/amp combo with a neutral-to-warm sound and ample power. It’s a cost-effective all-in-one solution for the DT 880.
Balances the DT 880’s brightness with a touch of warmth, preserving midrange detail and offering a decent soundstage for classical music. It’s versatile.
Driving Capabilities: 9 (Strong for 250 ohms, capable up to 600 ohms)
Midrange: 8 (Clear and slightly warm, good for chamber music)
Treble: 8 (Detailed without harshness)
Bass: 8 (Controlled and natural)
Soundstage: 7 (Solid but not as expansive as pricier options)
Smoothness: 8 (Pleasant and easygoing)

Amazon.co.uk

Best All-Rounder: iFi Zen CAN. Offers warmth, smoothness, and flexibility, enhancing the DT 880’s strengths for classical listening.