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What would be a proper/noticeable upgrade for an Asgard 2 headphone amp?

Space Lynx

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I am wanting to upgrade my headphone amp as a Christmas gift to myself, it will be paired with HifiMAN Arya Stealth headphones (I also own Sennheiser HD58X).

My irl friend upgraded to a Fiio K19 $1300 amp, and he said it is very noticeable upgrade over his Asgard 2, however, that is way out of my budget. Any thoughts on what I can upgrade to for say $300? Any other recommendations welcome. @VSG Does Fiio have anything in that range coming out early next year? I know you toured their factory recently.
 

VSG

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I am wanting to upgrade my headphone amp as a Christmas gift to myself, it will be paired with HifiMAN Arya Stealth headphones (I also own Sennheiser HD58X).

My irl friend upgraded to a Fiio K19 $1300 amp, and he said it is very noticeable upgrade over his Asgard 2, however, that is way out of my budget. Any thoughts on what I can upgrade to for say $300? Any other recommendations welcome. @VSG Does Fiio have anything in that range coming out early next year? I know you toured their factory recently.
K17 is coming up, although that might be priced higher than $300 too. Maybe the K9 AKM?
 

Space Lynx

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K17 is coming up, although that might be priced higher than $300 too. Maybe the K9 AKM?

I will save up for the K17 as long as it's not like too crazy high, thanks for the heads up!
 
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I've been in the same dilema for a bit (praying my amp does not die, it's an oldie). Not really convinced by Schiit's new Asgard 3 design, so this will be a thread I'll be watching with interest.
 

VSG

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I will save up for the K17 as long as it's not like too crazy high, thanks for the heads up!
1000057205.jpg

This is how it looks btw.
 

Space Lynx

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I've been in the same dilema for a bit (praying my amp does not die, it's an oldie). Not really convinced by Schiit's new Asgard 3 design, so this will be a thread I'll be watching with interest.

I listened to asgard 3 when it launched, my asgard 2 still sounded better so I refunded the asgard 3. Asgard 3 is dull and lifeless.


If Fiio comes out with K17 early next year and its around $500, I may go for that. We will see.
 
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