Schiit Magni+ Affordable No-Excuses Headphone Amp & Preamp (Silver)

I purchased 7 amps all in the range of $30 - $250. From the China type cheap ones like Bolanle, Mackie to the cheap Behringer HA400 (DONT PURCHASE THESE CHEAP ONES UNLESS YOU WANT WORSE SOUND QUALITY AND STATIC HISS).I found a few names floating around that seemed to make good amps. All were around $100+ - Topping, Creative (old company), ifi, and Schiit to name the most popular. I crossed out Creative and ifi based off gut instinct. I focused on Schiit and also stumbled on Presonus. I was interested in both Schoot and Presonus, Schiit because they had a good solid story and just wanted to make a no frills Amo that actually works. Presonus because they have their own high impedance headphones. I picked a model from each brand and ordered them since the cheap china ones all did the same thing, increase the volume and create a loud hiss.NO HISSING ALLOWED, I’m not buying an amp and quality headphone and gear to go backwards with sound quality. So if you can’t afford a quality amp, get lower ohm headphones, you will hear the music with no issues and still get quality headphone audio.E.g. Audio Technician M50 doesn’t need an AMP to work at 38 ohm*Both the Presonus HP4 and the Schiit Magni+ both work great. I kept both, why?Personus HP4- 4 headphone outputs and one for monitor- Sturdy build and doesn’t get hot- Slightly less audio quality (I mean very slightly, you have to swap back and forth numerous times to even notice)Schiit Magni+- Three output db options (allows for fine tuning between volume and static)- Slightly better sound quality- Unit heats up (but they say it will last a long time)- *ONE HEADPHONE OUTPUT (this is why I kept the Presonus as well)If the Schiit Magni+ had more headphone outputs, I would have kept that only, but the presonus has more flexibility and allows me to amplify speakers and headphones at the same time. I ended up buying a used Presinus from Amazon for about $65 and a clearance/B stock Schiit Magni+ /Heretic for $79.I’m content with the sound and flexibility and since both units seemed to be made well, I believe they will last.*Tip for anyone looking to get a headphone amp to power high OHM. I learned you need an amp with very low Output Impedance. You willPay likely have to search for the spec/data/cut sheet to find that info, but that will help you weed out the garbage Amps.The output impedance should ideally be 8 times then the headphones Ohm/Impedance. The Schiit Magni+ is around .3 - 4 output impedance, yes I said .3.The output impedance of the Presonus HP4 is a bit tricky since the spec sheet says it’s 51 ohm for the Monitor outputs, that should be for the speakers, they aren’t really clear on the headphones. But I assumed it’s higher than Schiits which may be the difference in sound quality, but the person is works great too.If you do hear a slight hiss due to external input source interference, you can decrease volume on the amp till it’s gone the. Just volume up your gear.

I have this paired with a Modi+ and 250 ohm DT 990 Pro headphones running through my computer. Plenty of juice in this amp to power these cans. The three gain switches make it easy to bump the volume up for different listening scenarios and the manual volume knob is a nice touch. Made very well.I initially just wanted to rid myself of gamer headsets and the terrible software that accompanies them. With a little research, I found this to be solid entry level gear for a beginner. Music sounds brand new, and honestly I don't see any reason to upgrade any further from this setup. The amp can get warm but nothing I see an issue with. Purchase quality RCA cables to do the equipment justice.

I’m using this amp because my earphones require the boost. Amp is reasonably priced and provides excellent quality of sound to sensitive earphones.

For the cost you can’t beat it. Works well, simple design.

I've had this for about a month now, and it's been fantastic. Paired with the Schiit Modi 3e and couldn't be happier with the way my audio sounds. For the first couple weeks i battled with a bit of sibilance and crackle but I narrowed that down to the cheap RCA cables I was using. I swapped those for a much better pair and everything is clean now. Currently running this through the Phillips Fidelio X3 on middle gain setting, I feel as though I'm in the studio as the artist is recording the song. This things gets loud, jump to the high gain if you have really demanding headphones. For the price this Amp is the best choice, if you can pick up the Modi as well you won't be disappointed.

After three weeks of use and testing, I am here to share my thoughts on the new generation Magni. For those familiar with the Magni 3+, you'll be pleased with slight improvements found in its successor. Here's a detailed look:Volume Control:A game-changer in this new model is the enhanced volume control through the gain switch. It offers more precision and granularity, allowing for a custom-tailored audio experience that's a significant step up from the previous generation. Whether you prefer softer tones or a booming base, the revamped gain switch ensures you get just the right output.Sound Quality:Sound remains consistent with the Magni 3+. It's dependable and delivers, but ensure you match it with the right headphones. The DT 990 at 250 ohms felt distorted at max gain level (with a little sibilance?), but the 600 ohm version shined.Portability:Compact and sleek - it’s designed for easy transport and setup. Same size as the Magni 3+.Conclusion:The new generation audio amplifier stands out in volume control, sound quality, and portability. However, ensure you pair it with the right headphones(if you're looking to use the max gain level). If you loved the Magni 3+, you're in for a treat with this upgrade. Highly recommended for audio aficionados!

Provides an unadulterated, clean, warm sound with precise control and 3 gain settings. Unit becomes slightly warm in operation. Sleek look and easy to use! MAKE SURE YOU BUY A 1/4" TO 1/8" ADAPTER AND RCA CABLE!!! THEY ARE NOT INCLUDED.

Works well and doesn't break the bank. Sound is much better than the prior amp I was using (small Douk for 50 to 60 bucks, which is really not good - and that's' putting it mildly). Mainly clarity and precision of sound that pleased me. Alos, virtually no audible distortions. PS. For headphones, I am using mostly a Sennheiser HD600. PPS: I am using an inexpensive no-name external DAC so far, which is an improvement over the sound circuits in the computer (an i5 Lenovo Tiny from years back), but the DAC needs upgrade, so my review is somewhat limited by that factor.Update: Added a Modi 3E (Shiit as well) - still pleased. I really don't hear any distortions that I could attribute to the amp.