How much benefit will a headphone amp bring

[DCarmi]

I sometimes listen to to my second system Marantz CR612 later in the evening through headphones. Would I seem much improvement from something like the Project Headbox E, connected via the CR612 Amp output RCA connection. i.e. RCA to RCA.

System: CR612 .
Headphones: Usually Sennheiser HD659, closed back. I do have open backed headphones but these are not used when others are around, for obvious reasons.

I find the CR612 sounds a little lightweight compared to my PM6006 amp using the same headphones. I am unwilling to spend more than £150, if there would be benefit. My usage case would not warrant the expenditure.

 

[oldie]

System: CR612 .
Headphones: Usually Sennheiser HD659, closed back. I do have open backed headphones but these are not used when others are around, for obvious reasons.

Think you mean Sennheiser HD569 👍

 

[DCarmi]

Think you mean Sennheiser HD569 👍

Errrm! Yes, sorry.

 

[Gray]

I find the CR612 sounds a little lightweight compared to my PM6006 amp using the same headphones.

Without knowing for sure, I'd say that you'd achieve at least as much improvement, again, over your PM-6006.

I'm not sure about the Pro-ject, but certainly with the Topping A50S of mine, not least with its ability to be used balanced with your 569 (if they've got the same headphone-end 4-pole plug as my similar 560S).

I've got a (hopefully) better Topping being delivered to me soon - which means that my, mint condition, silver, boxed complete A50S will be available for well below your budget.
No sales allowed on here, but If you were interested and anywhere near southeast Essex - where there's a will, there's always a way 😉.

 

[DCarmi]

Thanks Gray. Sadly, I am a the other side of the country from you.
I did take a look at the Topping A50 111 which I assume to be the upgraded model of your current one.

The 569 are 4 pole, so balanced would be possible.

I'll mull over a bit longer. Fear being I might need a second one for downstairs!! 🙂

 

[Revolutions]

I have a Douk U3 & it’s pretty cool for not much money. Just bought a Schiit Magni Unity - happy to report back here when I’ve compared the two if there’s any improvement with the latter.

Douk Audio U3 Mini Class A Headphone Amplifier HiFi Desktop Stereo Amp

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[Shrek]

I recently invested in my first headphone Amp ifi zen can 3 via my Marantz 70s and im very pleased at the improvement have a look at the Fiio range very good value for money.Fiio k11 £119.00