Headphone Heights

Welcome to Headphone Heights, the place for all your ear bud discussion

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Original Message

Atma-Sphere Gem, Dynaco ST35, Manley

Posted by Ralph on December 10, 2024 at 11:03:29:
A good PP amp holds together better than SET headphone amps, even if I say so myself.

SETs have about 20-25% usable power. A good PP amp has more like 95%. On phones, the SET will sound louder but when you measure the output power you find out it isn't. This is just due to the increased distortion of SETs; the ear uses higher ordered harmonics to sense sound pressure; you eliminate those as you can with a good PP amp and it doesn't sound as 'loud'.

You could also use a properly refurbished Dynaco ST35. They are also available as kit new these days. https://www.dynakitparts.com/shop/st-35-kit-120-vac/

Manley makes two amps suitable for headphone use
https://www.manley.com/hifi/mahi
https://www.manley.com/hifi/mabhpa (this one specifically designed for 'phones)