Would my m50x's benefit much from this aside from the control aspect? I'm new to audio and wondering if anyone has experience with this combination. Don't know if it's reasonable to spend as much on the amp than the headphones, but this seems a good deal.
masonsanfThe m50's impedance is way too low to work well with an OTL (output transformerless) amp like the Darkvoice. Amps in this class are really designed for higher end 300-600 ohm headphones. You'd be better off spending $200 on something solid state (the O2 or schiit magni are always a solid choice).
Not to say this amp wouldn't power your m50's but OTL's actually input LESS power into lower impedance headphones. You'll probably get an audible hum or hiss with anything below ~100ohms as well. I would pass on this unit until you've got headphones that are more compatible.
You could, of course, always treat yourself to some new headphones as well ;-)
masonsanftake it from me, buy Ultrasone Signature DJ its about $800 it's the best upgrade which also can be played without amp, u can use your phone directly and its awesome, P.S believe me its worth the $800
BaderI've heard this particular pair of headphones, and I disagree strongly. Get yourself an okay Amp and DAC, and a midrange pair of open cans, from AKG, Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser, etc., and you'll get much better sound than anything Ultrasone makes. But, the "best" sound is up to your personal interpretation. I just dont think that recommending $800 DJ headphones really is something to do in a discussion about a tube amplifier, DJ gear is generally of much lower fidelity and quality than most anything else.
LordByronI was suggesting a headphone that is really an upgrade for ATH-M50, also the guy asked for suggestions, plus Ultrasone Signature DJ is a great headphone as a closed headphone so bringing up open headphone is not logical here, also I informed that it can be played without an amp.
So thanx for ur comments and I hope in the future u will focus before replying.
BaderIt's a discussion about a tube amp... You suggested a headphone that would be both a bad for use with an amp, and bad for tubes. Low impedance and tubes are a bad mix when talking about OTL's.