Can't decide between the JDS Element III Mk.2 Boostd, or a Modius + Jotunheim 2 Stack, for HD800s.

Yeah getting stuff up into Canada sucks, and importing fees can be an extra kick in the nards. If you live anywhere close to the border, shipping stuff to a pickup depot and driving over isn't a bad option.

The BHA-1 (and Byrston in general) has unfortunately had so much price creep the last several years. Used is pretty much the only option these days.

You know, based on your stated preferences I think the ADI-2 is actually a good fit for you. I had one and eventually sold it, but since you like the EQ functions that would be a solid all-in-one unit for you. Save a few bucks with the DAC version if you don't need the inputs of the Pro version. Personally I have the RME Babyface Pro FS which I prefer to the ADI-2.

 

I could not find any literature on whether the Magni disables RCA output automatically upon plugging in a headphone jack or not. The only evidence I've found suggests that it doesn't, as others have asked on the web about how to switch between speaker and headphone output. Even with some of Schiit's bigger products, like the Midgard, they state outright that the RCA outputs are always on and non-muted, even with headphones plugged in. You're saying that with your setup, when you plug headphones in, the RCA output is disabled? Good to know, thank you.

The Jot is still a contender due to is increased power output which is useful for a strong negative Preamp EQ, and for the internal power supply which frees up a wall wart space, but yes I agree that sonically, the Magni is likely cleaner.

 

In case Purrin's post about this wasn't clear, plug in headphones and the pre-out is muted. Remove headphones and it works as a pre. No need to spend more on mid tier Schiit for this feature.

Edit: Seems we posted at the same time. If you don't believe us, contact Schiit support to confirm.

 

Very good to know, thank you for confirming that. I couldn't find any literature online to support that, and, in fact, could only find examples of it not being the case. Even WITH some of Schiit's mid-tier offerings, like the Midgard, they explicitly state that the preamp output is not muted with headphones plugged in. Very strange.

 

I believe every single-ended Schiit amp will mute the preamp when headphones are plugged in. Balanced ones like Jot and Midgard do not, because there isn't an easy way to detect when balanced headphones are plugged in.

 

I used a single youtube video to provide an example of what I was talking about, in direct response to something you had said, which I agreed with.... I really don't see what the issue with that is, or how it's disrespectful in the slightest. I was explaining why I have the opinions I have, which is something users here have asked.

Very good to know, thank you.


I have the sense that a ban is incoming for me, given the closed nature of SBAF, my reception here so far, and the fact that I seem to be greatly irritating people with my comments, so while I can, I want to thank those who commented with recommendations and feedback, I appreciate your help and your time, thank you.

 

@Quinton595 , hey man - can i borrow some of that time you seem to have so much of?

 

Please do, I have too much

 

Curveball suggestion to add to poll:

@Quinton595 sells everything he has and gets:

1) HQPlayer up-sampling digital content to DSD64 (would go lower if possible) feeding...
2) Ifi Zen Dac V2 feeding...
3) 90210-you-know-what-I'm-sayin JAR version of HD800

Endgame baby!

 

let me guess, you're a politician.

edit: your sense of entitlement is suffocating.

 

lmao entitlement? How? I'm broke AF and certainly don't believe I deserve any special treatment. Where have I asked to be treated inherently better than others? I came to this forum to ask a simple poll, and have been responding to the feedback I've been getting.

 

Sounds like some Canadians I know who come to FL, they got some self entitlement issues.

Or maybe this is an ASR troll?

 

Pardon my ignorance but aren't HD800 really wide staged and "transparent" already ? Never heard them, but I would think stacking phones with those attributes with amp and DAC that share the same would be to much of a good thing wouldn't it ? Gear is about synergy and how it all compliments each other.

 

I am truly, genuinely, earnestly asking someone to please just explain what the issue is that you all have with me here. I'm not being sarcastic, not being facetious, I'm genuinely wanting to know, if someone will explain.

 

This is a large part of why I think the Jot, or at least, amps which sound like the Jot, might be good. Lots of people online talk about it pairing well with the HD800s precisely because it helps to round out what they feel is missing from the HD800s. However, an equal number of people feel that this is going against the whole reason you probably bought the HD800s in the first place. If you like clean, airy sound, such as the HD800s is known for, then why would you muddy it with a warm amp? I suppose its a matter of perspective and taste. I think you can't go wrong with either approach, depending on what you prefer acoustically.

 

System Synergy - Special Sound | Super Best Audio Friends

 

Good point, were almost there. Addendum to chain:

4) + 2db shelf from 3.2 khz to 9.1 khz, with a +3.7db peak at 12.4 khz added to bolster air...