Drop THX AAA 789 - Does it make high-end headphone amps redundant?

The Drop THX AAA 789 uses THX amplifier technology for the lowest distortion possible. Does this make it one of the best headphones amplifiers available in 2022?
Thanks to Drop (Massdrop) for sending me the amp.
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[@Currawong]

Before commenting (or going around the web saying "Currawong said XYZ!!!") please carefully note the CONTEXT in which I made the comments I did. Already some people have gotten it wrong. Go back and watch again! For the lazy: It's a good amp. Not as good as amps 4x (or 10x) the price, but those amps are 4x (or 10x) the price and not everyone can, or wants to spend that much.

[@DarkPa1adin]

As always, a lot of people love to quote authoritative reviewers like you.

[@JayJayYUP]

You wanted to check if the Feedfoward feedback tech actually works in eliminating most distortion, yet say right after that that measurements do show as such, and that you'll take them at their word in that case. I don't get it. Measurements + Manufacturer specifications aren't enough? As for the topic title, not only does it make them redundant, it makes them obsolete. The JDS Atom is the only amp remotely close not using the THX tech with that level of performance. So unless I seem to mistake priorities (like what color, precious metal, finishing, warranty service, etc...), this amp and it's recent family basically make all others pointless as sole headphone analogue amps. But the Atom at its $99 price point makes them all redundant, except the Atom lacks connectivity/metal casing, so it's a toss up at that point.

[@kwatch1215]

How does it sound against Audio-GD 1AMP?

[@nicktan4530]

What do you mean ? Meaning there more expensive amplifier that sound better than the Drop THX 789 AAA

[@evshrug]

Nick tan • Currawong says in the video that more expensive amps do sound a bit better... but the 789 is a significant jump up from less expensive amps and close to amps over $1000. Law of diminishing returns, you would pay a lot more for a little better.

[@eat_ze_bugs]

18:26 Unfortunately many audiophiles tend forget about this.

[@chronometa]

Lies (btw I'm kidding)

[@pdcragin33]

How do I give you TWO thumbs up. Your very careful delineation of performance and value, complete with comparisons up down and across the price range of alternative amps, made this highly informative. And interesting, in a nerdy way that works for me (as I push my glasses back up my nose). Thanks!

[@Currawong]

Thanks. I'm always glad when people understand what I'm getting at in my videos.

[@antoinep9733]

@@Currawong Sounds like the perfect next step for the thousands of HD-6XX owners out there (like me), looking for a SQ jump at a reasonable cost.

[@evshrug]

Antoine P • It’s true, headphones around the HD 6XX’s level of quality continue to benefit from “upstream gear” like amps and DACs that increase in price, even amps much more expensive than the headphone itself.

[@edwarddodge7937]

Having upgraded from the 789 this year, I really need to revisit this review and see how Currawong diplomatically tried to warn me about it being flat and uninspiring.

[@alexmuvua1312]

Curious question,What did you upgrade to?Thank you and have a blessed day/night

[@Delsymian]

^

[@cybergod77]

though u're pretty late in reviewing this, I believe u r the only reviewer who showed the internals - which is good. Hope u can make a comparison against the SMSL SP200. Thks

[@Currawong]

I'll see what I can do. That amp has got me interested as well.

[@cybergod77]

@@Currawong cool. appears to have similar performance at a lower price point

[@OakForestAudio]

@@Currawong I've got the SMSL SP 200 in now and I think it's well worth a listen!

[@OakForestAudio]

​@UCcCH6SU8Jbv5_ByS9CgPwfw Not dry is not "is better" It's different for your tastes, noise floor with XLR in on SP200 is like -120? RCA is a bit better at -122, but not having enough power for HE6SE is still a valid point subjectively. I've only really liked HE 6SE on a FirstWatt Speaker Amp

[@sierre00]

I already did. 6.35 sp200 more power, xlr balanced 789 more power. No power improvements in xlr for sp200. Sp200 higher noise floor, loud enough you can hear it on high gain, but would not be a problem generally. Both not nearly enough power to drive he6se for these alleged "power house" and sp200 did exceptionally poor. Hd800s not bad on sp200, but still tremendously lags behind marantz if you a/b especially energy and bass. Sp200 sounded very dry and just lousily loud, and for a lot of tracks, it is not even loud. It's not deadly quiet on he6se, but pretty close to it. Poor dynamic energy in overall and especially poor on bass. I sold it already. But not bad for $250 deal. Monoprice thx AAA 887 is better at this price point. Still I always prefer a class a, the difference is huge you a/b even for a non-audiophile. Wish there are second generation of thx AAAs coming.

[@Jamie-666]

Great channel. Please note: the more able you are to afford this kind of gear, the more your hearing has gone downhill. Basically, it evens out :)!!!

[@Jamie-666]

Just re-read what I wrote 2 years ago. Can confirm.

[@Pyregazer]

I do respect the sound of mine, but over the years.. I have come to like tube amps much more than I expected I would have (good hybrids are my thing atm).

[@MichaelAmster]

I have a Drop THX AAA 789 paired with an SMSL-D1 driving Focal Stellia. I have not tried a more expensive amp yet, but even with this pairing, I think it is very clean. I am sure there are more euphonic amps out there, but this one will tide me over until I can buy a Hugo TT2 which I think will be my big step up.

[@-havoc-tzu-3197]

Michael Amster Focal’s Arche DAC/amp sounded great with the Stellia when I heard it at cam jam. May want to consider giving that a try, might save you some money.

[@allansh828]

@@-havoc-tzu-3197 Arche does need a power cord upgrade and clean digital transport to sound decent. It doesn't do any isolation to suppress input noise.

[@mimium]

Thanks a lot for your nice review.

[@janbeggebeen]

high there. have my smsl su 8 I at home and the thx 789 in 4 days. have the mojo now with Sennheiser hd800s. what headset do you drive ?

[@SaltyMaud]

Been using the same combo for a year now. No complaints. Sound like it should and has way more than enough oomph to drive LCD-2C.

[@janbeggebeen]

Salty Maud do you mean hd800 mojo combo ?

[@rhodey2952]

Same setup. Had a jotunhiem (with internal dac) before and this current setup is much cleaner imo. Also used the smsl su-8 with the jotunhiem to see the difference in the dac and the amps. The 789 is the better amp and the smsl is the better dac. Imo it was a excellent upgrade at little cost difference.

[@janbeggebeen]

Rhodey i have my 789 now and the smsl su8 with hd800s Very analytical comoared to mojo. Mojo is warmer and does not lack oompf. I might prefer the Mojo presentation

[@prestondufauchard5919]

There are quite a number of reviews of the 789 online. This is the very best review.

[@slicktricks88]

The best purchase I made from Curra’s videos was the head rest for the Aeron chair!

[@nothingEvil101]

Iron-Buddha Well it noticeably improves head resting performance

[@i0001w]

Lately SMSL has THX amp for 280$ which even give a good value. Also JDS amps start to give same performance.

[@UnHoLyHooLiGaN]

صدقت توي طالب الSMSL 200 مع SU-8 ما قدرت ابرر دفع 120 دولار الزيادة خاصة ان البعض يعتبرها افضل

[@miked3058]

Great review Amos. You are one of the best and most sensible high end reviewers out there.

[@Currawong]

Thanks.

[@musicxxa6678]

Very good review. I bought this and the sound exactly how you described. It has some kind of low distortion smoothness. It's not like rolled off treble but calm, non harsh, smooth detail. This amp is not fatiguing however again as you said i feel like it lacks a bit of dynamic impact. It might be related because noise/distortion can help with the impact. I also noticed some air and depth in the midrange. I think this is a very good, feature rich, referance grade solid state amp. Have this and focus on dacs to tune how it sounds because it does show the differences between dacs. Currently have no idea about tube preamps but THX 789 might work well with them too.

[@Goryglory0209]

2nd One here. Good video.. Was waiting for your comments on this. I see an SMSL SP200 also dropped for half price and with THX888 I believe. But my take is more on the new Asgard 3 which i am waiting your review for before ordering it.

[@metal571]

Definitely want to see what you think of the Koss estat. That's a fun one

[@Currawong]

It is! I've been listening to it, and I have a suitable PSU to try it with too.

[@sidvicious3129]

I would like to see you or metal571 get in for review Icon Audio hp-205d at their highend or their hp8 mkii at their lower end tube based headphone amps. Both are single ended and don’t use a circuit board and use point to point wiring and their build quality seems equivalent of Prima Luna. They are a UK based company. Their US Distributer seems to be Music direct if either of you can pulls some strings to get one in. I’m not sure who the UK distributors are. I enjoy both of you and your reviews are very detailed and I can tell that both of you take the reviewing process seriously.

[@metal571]

lol no. I don't do amps, that's all Amos. Can also add max settings to the list of people who should review it

[@sidvicious3129]

metal571 my fault Man I forgot, headphones only.

[@Reeeepicheep]

The 789 has grating treble detail. When upgrading to the Monoprice 887 thx amp, this issue went away as it was smoother/softer up there. Would recommend the 887 over the 789 if you are sensitive to harsh treble detail.

[@petrolhead007]

I totally get your point. To my ears my Questyle CMA600i 's sound is tighter and cleaner. However, it is 3 times the price of the THX 789. I still like the THX 789 and use it more as it's lighter and smaller than the CMA600i. And I'm happy with the value which I'm getting out of the price I paid for the THX 789. A question - Did you say that when you pair the Chord Hugo 2 with the THX 789 you lose a little bit of detail? Asking as I always use the THX 789 with the Hugo 2. Will I get a better result if I only use the Hugo 2 as both the DAC and Amp? The headphones which I normally use with this combo are the Hifiman HE1000v2 and Senn HD800S. Thanks for your help!

[@Currawong]

Yes, a tiny bit. Depending on the headphones some people seem to find using an external amp to be preferable with the Hugo 2 regardless. My Studio Six also loses a bit of detail too (it's inevitable) but I still enjoy using it.

[@onlypinkytube]

It's an incredible detail video. It seems the general consensus is yes this is a excellent AMP specially for those with limited budget or even starting in the hobby. I got mine base on on Mark “DMS” review. It replaced my Mojo Chord. I use mostly 3 midrange headphones HD6XX Argon Mk2 and Æ Flow closed HD6XX I used mostly on my Eddie Jr. but the 789 was an AMP that really open the Argons potencial and the Æon even though I love them most days can be a physically painful set of cans I have notice that with the 789 controls better the harshness the Æon can produce.

[@lorcro2000]

This is not limited budget or starting in the hobby. This is mid-end at the very least for the average person. A $4-500 amplifier, that needs a DAC for more hundreds, to connect to a pair of... $200 headphones? The whole equation there is already backwards, if you're going to spend a LOT of money on a headphone amp setup, and $700 or whatever it comes to with a DAC is a lot, you need to spend two or three times that on headphones to get to headphones that can conceivably need the 6 watt amp or (in theory) use the capacity to resolve the sound more finely (though just saying that leaves a bad taste in my mouth, tbh, sounds way too snake-oilish). For a $200 pair of headphones, a $100 DAC/AMP will be more than plenty. My FiiO K3 doesn't measure excellently, but it sure drives my HD58X Jubilees in a fantastic fashion nevertheless; they're only 150 ohms and thus the relatively weak amp is plenty. The FiiO K5 Pro (I keep talking about FiiO because I like what they're doing with their stuff - Q5s, M11 DAP etc) has a 1.5 watt amp and is $150, that would be perfectly superb for any headphones at least up to the $500-600 mark, probably more.

[@BrotherO4]

@phillip martin that is because this THX pretty much shows how badly people been overpriced. you dont need anything else than the 789 if you are going for cleanest. the 887 is even better but completely pointless because any improvement cant be heard by human ears. some people have to defend their 2 to 3k spent.

[@bongofury3176]

food and clothes more important...as I sit here naked and hungry infront of my Quad monsters...

[@Bercyable]

Quad ESL!! The best!!!!

[@zackw4941]

Nice review! Next, try out the Airist R2R DAC on Drop. I have the 789 and R2R sitting on top of my Violectric V850 DAC and V281 amp. They do different things better and I can't really pick a clear, over all winner. That said the Drop stack cost around $800 shipped, brand new. The Violectric stack ran me about $2900 used, including new balanced cables. I can't tell the DACs apart with either amp, BTW.

[@sebanambrus9265]

Hi i have rme adi2 dac. I plan to buy v281. But i seen thx is good too in much lower price can you compare or suggest them for my hd800 ?

[@koolpep]

Thanks for the review! Would the Drop SDAC balanced pair well?

[@fatdoi003]

seems FOTM is drop r2r dac

[@khmergodhobbies]

i own both this and jds atom and they both perform similarly. I can't decide which I like better unless I'm needing balanced.

[@lorcro2000]

Because any good amplifier will sound like any other good amplifier. The THX is less noisy, but... that presumes you can actually hear the noise in the Atom, and you probably can't. The main advantage the THX has is that nuclear powered amplifier, if you have some cans that really need current to perform (there are a few) then having all the power may help.

[@Osprey1994]

@@lorcro2000 Good points

[@klewja]

Amos do you have any plans to get a Hugo TT2? I find it a substantial upgrade from the hugo 2. Plus it can replace most of the other equipment that you have the amp section on it is really incredible and transparent.

[@Currawong]

I've actually thought of selling my main rig and buying one, as well as an M-Scaler.

[@MrCri95inter]

@@Currawong don't remember who but someone once said he didn't hear much of a difference with the m scaler. Or at least said the dave, for the same price of the two, was better

[@klewja]

@@MrCri95inter I had the mscaler with the hugo 2 and I made a pretty big improvement. It is more evident with speakers.

[@tthedon2471]

hello sir. i love your video. i have a focal clear and wonder what amp would match their quality. i currently use graham slee solo mk1. many thanks.

[@IStVlad]

Could you please tell us how do the Panda's compare to the Audio Technica wireless range aka ATH-DSR7bt/DSR9bt? First off because those have no actual amp needed they just do digital to digital in the headphones and idk how that goes against the thx aaa tech in Panda. Plus the soundstage and neutrality in sound is quite awesome with Audio Technica so I'm curious how you'd review the warmness compared to them. I for example go for less warmth and am biased towards a larger soundstage than "in your head" sound. Would be awesome to get your reply! Love the content on the channel, keep up the good work!

[@Currawong]

I can't, because I don't have any of those headphones here, sorry.

[@jarkmodels]

Fantastic review, thorough and complete.. have you ever listen to or planning to do a review of the Violectric HPA V281? It’s been around for many years and at one point it was extremely popular within the headphone community but since all the new hot stuff no one talks about it anymore and I would love to hear your thoughts. Cheers mate

[@Currawong]

I had thought about asking them some years ago. They have a high-end amp I'd like to review actually.

[@jarkmodels]

Currawong please do! Would love to see it

[@musicxxa6678]

Hello Currawong. Can i use single ended rca to xlr cable with this ? How it overloads to conversion circuit ? I'm planning using Topping E30 with this. It has 2vrms output. Oh it would be nice if you review E30 btw.

[@Johnxyeo]

Hi @currawong, just curious what are your thoughts on the upcoming THX AAA One Linear Amp? Do you think it will fare well with the 789s?

[@dayman888]

I am wondering if you have ever tried out the Topping D90 before. That's the DAC that I am looking to buy and probably will by the end of the month.

[@Currawong]

A few people have asked about that. I might see if I can't get one to review.

[@shkermanshahi]

Thanks for the review. Any idea how it comapres to Schiit Jotunheim?

[@JH-gd4qv]

I personally perfer the jotunheim 2 quite a bit more than the thx 789. The thx 789 is extremely detailed and an amazing amp. But, also the schiit magni heresy is very damn close to the 789. But I personally think the jot is much better for my taste, you are still getting that detail but it feels a hair warmer and more forgiving to me. I have them both hooked up using a schiit modious dac. I use lcd x headphones, sennhiser 58x, 6xx, audio technica m40x, and beyerdynamic dt 990 600ohm. Plan to get some beyer dt 1990 and some akg 7xx next. I also really want to get into some tube amps, thinking of grabbing a schiit Valhalla 2, or dark voice, or a xduo m602. I want atleast 1 tube amp for something a little more warm and open sounding. Do you have any experience with tubes?

[@pentapandamusic]

Thanks for the review - I bought it. Is an audio interface's DAC (e.g. mine is a Arturia AudioFuse) good enough for it or do I have to buy a dedicated DAC?

[@Currawong]

It might be. Try it and see how you feel about the sound.

[@st0neageman]

I have the monolith 887. However, I don't think it's flat boring or lifeless. I think this is the amp to perfectly show off well recorded songs and the ability of your headphones. All good and bad will come out. If the recording is warm, then this amp will be warm and vise versa. But take my words with a grain of salt because I love detail and is what I prefer.

[@rado3714]

I've heard a lot of rave reviews about this and kind of ignored them all after trying Monoprice's earlier THX AAA amp and not liking it. But now you have me wanting this. My main gripe is the aesthetics and the fact that for the same price you can get an Asgard (which looks great) with a multibit DAC built in for the same price. The dynamics and transparency you mention still have me drooling over this a little though. I assume you're saying that the cleanliness of this (being able to discern differences in DACs) is far above something like the Asgard, right?

[@Currawong]

It isn't *far* above -- a lot of that depends on the music though. However if you're talking about comparing the Asgard + multibit DAC card, that isn't a fair comparison, as the AAA 789 doesn't have a DAC, and how good it is depends on what DAC you have. So really, an AAA 789 + DAC combo costs more -- maybe $800-1000, so it will be a significan't step up from an Asgard 3 + multibit card.

[@AndrewBannister]

12:18 pretty much everything i needed to hear.

[@JosefBalabanovsky]

@currawong Thank you for the great review. I just ordered the THX AAA 789. I'm currently using the Hifiman Arya connected directly to my computer's Creative Sound Blaster Z sound card that has a built in DAC. A few questions - 1. Will I hear a significant improvement in sound quality if I add an external DAC that is connected to the sound card? 2. Will I hear a significant improvment in sound quality if I use the Bifrost 2 compared to the Modi Multibit? 3. Which DAC would you recommend that is up to the price range of the Bifrost 2 (and do you recommend me to buy a multibit DAC)?

[@Currawong]

Hi Josef. I'm not familiar with the Creative Sound Blaster Z, so I can't say definitively what improvement you'd get from an external DAC. However, the Arya are great headphones, so you're likely, if you listen to well-recorded music (i.e.: Not modern, compressed pop music, but good recordings of singers and bands) to be able to make out improvements when getting a better DAC. So if you do listen to good music, then a Bifrost would likely be a noticeable upgrade. The benefit of multibit DACs, in my opinion, is that instruments sound more real and natural with them than they do with sigma-delta based DACs. They can, however, sound a little bit "soft" or "warm" depending on design. Some people like this, and some don't. More "warm" -- Audio-gd R1. More "precise" - find a Chord Hugo 1 for around that price, and use it with a Schiit Wyrd or the optical input. I haven't tried any other DACs around that price range recently, so my suggestions are quite limited.

[@JosefBalabanovsky]

@@Currawong Hi Amos, thank you very much for your detailed reply, it is very helpful. I was just about to buy the Bifrost 2 when I heard about the Denafrips Ares 2 resistor ladder R2R DAC for a similar price of $755 (I saw the video below that compares the Ares 1 to the Bifrost 1). I don't know if you've heard the Ares 2 DAC, but I wanted to ask what you think about the sound of a multibit DAC like Bifrost 2 compared to a ladder R2R DAC? Which DAC would you recommend me to buy, Schiit Bifrost 2 or Denafrips Ares 2? Specs - www.vinshineaudio.com/product-page/denafrips-ares-r2r-dac kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmSVnICja6pnhsk

[@wric01]

Balance does sound better and clearer to me. Topping dx 7 pro with thx 789. Bear in mind, how good are your ears when comparing / measuring how good is balance and single ended. Mine is very good at 40 as i was never in music until 5 years ago. I can hear outside noise like before visitor reaches my door to ring.

[@digitaltactics9234]

Currawong i have a 400 dollar Yamaha mixer that has a balance xlr out with a +4dbu balance on it you think that would fine to use this for the 789 ? Thanks for your time & this review stay safe out there good sir.

[@Currawong]

If you can adjust the output of the Yamaha, then you should be OK. Maximum output might overload the input of the 789. I'm not 100% sure.

[@digitaltactics9234]

@@Currawong Thanks for your reply. :)

[@Yu-ej1cy]

Trying the iFi iPower 12V 1.8A on the THX AAA 789 will be a fun experiment. You lost half the voltage swing but i assume the iPower will offer cleaner power than the stock power supply.

[@Currawong]

The amp would probably not even work correctly fed such a low voltage.

[@ChUcK2001]

Thank you very much sir, I wanted to prioritize a good quality DAC over balanced feature. I won't use the balance feature of the DROP THX 789

[@wcg66]

The Drop THX 789 might be made redundant with the new SMSL and Monoprice Monolith THX amps both of which measure as well if not better (which seems to be that main motivation behind the hype.)

[@Currawong]

You're correct about the measurements being most of the hype. There does seem to be something of a Drop vs. Monoprice thing going on.

[@OscarRios]

Will you recommenced the airist R2R dac being sold as pairing for the 789 at massdrop?

[@Currawong]

I haven't had a chance to try the Airist yet.

[@ciarantaaffe5259]

@@theterriblepuddle1830 Yes, it's great

[@SaltyMaud]

Clean amp with a dirty dac. Seems a bit counter productive.

[@Shoaibexpert]

Great review. I have this amp with the SMSL M500 DAC. Any suggestions on a DAC upgrade with noticeable improvement over the M500...noticing the law of diminishing returns... thanks

[@snowrang3r657]

The M500 measures pretty well other than some units have a thermal instability issue where they drastically change depending on their temp. To get a decent upgrade you'd probably want to look at the Topping D90, something from matrix audio (X-Sabre DAC or Element-X), or the RME ADI-2 DAC. The Cord Qutest measures good as well but for the asking price it really should include balanced (XLR) outputs.

[@Shoaibexpert]

@@snowrang3r657 Don't know if D90 is an upgrade...I mean some elements on it measure worse than the M500 and with the SINAD of M500...things already become inaudible!

[@ADesertVoice]

@@Shoaibexpert WTH are you talking about? The D90 is a superior DAC compared to the M500. Hell the SMSL SU-8 which is a pure DAC even performs better in my opinion.

[@RenRenification]

You’re brave to make this video

[@Farazao]

Another great review. How do your think the jotunheim does in comparison with it?

[@Currawong]

That's a good question. I've been thinking about organising a review of one. My guess is that it will sound slightly different, but not enough to matter (because the Lyr 3 does, and sorry for not going into detail about that in the video). However, you can buy a Jotunheim right now, but you have to wait for an AAA 789.

[@OhadMaishar]

How does it indeed compare to the Lyr 3?

[@jamesbittle2138]

@@Currawong Several KZbinrs have commented that the 789 is much better sounding than the Jotunheim (which I own), but I am not sure I believe them. I haven't heard anything more expensive than the Jotenheim yet. I would like to hear your opinion on the matter.

[@rhodey2952]

If you get the jotunhiem get the version without the dac. Had the jot and the dac they used wasn't the best. When I tested the jots dac and then used my smsl su-8 I felt there was a difference. But I have the 789 and I sold my jot after I received the 789. Its just a cleaner amp imo. Schiit has a different sound to their stuff. Not bad just different.

[@Farazao]

@@jamesbittle2138 I have the Jot and I'm waiting for the sp200. I can tell you my thoughts on it, even though I'm no specialist.

[@southghost149]

I’m thinking of buying one. Anyone know a good DAC to pair with this?

[@JH-gd4qv]

I’m getting ready to buy one too. I think I’m just going to use my little schiit modi 3+ as a dac. But I think I’m going to save up and eventually get a schiit modious dac that’s about 200. Or just save up more and get the schiit Bifrost that cost about 6 or 700 I believe, pricy but heard it was good. Did you buy yours yet, if so what dac are you using?

[@carminedesanto6746]

@@JH-gd4qv I run mine with the Drop Grace SDAC in balanced mode to a little bear XLR switch box. That allows me to send a balanced signal to my Drop 789 and the Loxji 20 tube amp ( the tubes work best for the 650’) . The 789 generally feeds my planars . 😎🎧😌

[@scubaman2546]

I like these pop-the-top off episodes. And you the give us a rough tour of the components.

[@SzepyKicks]

What would be the better choice for the THX? The new Schiit Bifrost 2 (with multibit) or the normal not multibit Gungir? They are the same price.

[@nexoduszerox2650]

What DAC would you recommend paring with this for roughly the same price and quality? I'm looking to get into audio maybe just little bit XD

[@Currawong]

I honestly haven't tried enough DACs around its price range to have a recommendation. You could see about finding a Chord Mojo at a good price though.

[@nexoduszerox2650]

@@Currawong Thats all good man, So somethjing cheaper or more expensive? but only slightly if possible?

[@milosdunjic8718]

I have one of these and it really sounds amazing

[@allansh828]

I find the crosstalk on the single-ended output quite problematic. How's the balanced output sound like?

[@joenorris3087]

Question, in your smsl sp200 review you said that you could use your dap with it. Is it possible to hook up a dap to the 789 as well?

[@Currawong]

Yes, definitely.

[@Snook_]

Hi Currawong, Currently using an Asgard2 with a chord 2qute on hifiman edition x v2's. Interested in your yhoughts on what aspects would improve if I replaced the asgard2 with the 789 on this setup with HiFiman Planars?

[@Currawong]

I'd guess you'd hear more detail, but it depends on what music you're listening to.

[@philipwrobel5497]

Will you share what cables you liked best with the 789. I'd like to upgrade mine with my 789 and D1.

[@deadeye110]

Spiral out

[@kautkascitadaks]

Have you had the pleasure to listen to sennheiser hd 540 reference gold(600ohm version)

[@emarshallp]

Can i connect a dac to this little amp and this amp to an external speaker amp and use it as a preamp???? Thanks a lot for your videos! They are excelent!!!

[@Currawong]

This amp doesn't have a pre-amp function unfortunately, so no.

[@emarshallp]

@@Currawong Thanks a Lot. Flor features AND to tale advantage of muy speaker amp AND muy sennh 6xx i Will go to the Asgard. Greetings from Argentina

[@tonyleungnl]

Any chance to review the MASSDROP X AIRIST AUDIO R-2R DAC?

[@Currawong]

That was on the list, but they didn't have a spare when I last asked.

[@TheWretchedWorld]

I wish this had an internal psu, would have got this rather than the sp200. Just a cleaner footprint having it inbuilt into the amp.

[@vipernecklampy8773]

Why Internal Psu? For space, or sound quality?

[@TheWretchedWorld]

@@vipernecklampy8773 space

[@JerwinPlaquia]

May I know how does the THX789 compares with GSX Mini? Is it worth upgrading from 789 to GSX Mini? Thanks in advanced :)

[@Currawong]

I haven't tried the GSX Mini yet. Headamp are busy fulfilling orders for them at the moment.

[@JerwinPlaquia]

@@Currawong I see, well looking forward to your review with the GSX Mini, and the quick comparison with 789 as well.

[@mervinkitterman610]

Rip: Mar. 2023; purchased on Aug. 2020 (RED LED of Death). It was driving Beyerdynamic T1 Gen2

[@mariobadilla4836]

sorry if this is a stupid question, but is this amp only for headphones, or can I use it with speakers as well?

[@Currawong]

Headphones only. You need a power amplifier or integrated amplifier for speakers.

[@ferozfalix7455]

How was your experience pairing it with the Modi MB?

[@dmarcus1260]

Would the Topping D70 DAC be a good match for the THX AAA 789?

[@Currawong]

The customers on Drop.com who combined them seemed to think so.

[@zindahoon]

How about chord Hugo and THX 789 together as one is amp and the other is dac

[@wormsdriver76]

Amos, any thoughts on this vs the Soundaware P1?

[@Currawong]

I haven't A/B'ed them (though they are sitting next to each other right now) but the Soundaware sacrifices a bit of detail to sound sweeter, vs. amps like the Master 9 and AAA 789.

[@kaitaochen8101]

@@Currawongsame question here. I am using 789 with susvara, wanting to upgrade to ifi ican pro or the p1. So is p1 worth upgrading to or just go with speaker amp instead? Ur opinion will be really helpful, thanks.

[@mrcrunch8000]

Do you have any recommendations for affordable interconnects? I am trying to avoid buying expensive rca cables and also trying to avoid buying another monoprice one but every single one I have tried from $30 and below has sounded worse than the old $6 monoprice cable that I hate using with a passion. It is very thick, stiff and built like junk. I even had to take pliers to it so it wouldn't slip off the connectors every time something is moved but I can't find a replacement that isn't insanely priced. Every other cheap cable I tried changes the presentation in a way I am not fond of. I really thought there was something wrong with the first cable I tried after the monoprice one but I have now been through 5 of them all ranging from $20-$30 and they all seem to have less sound stage and an almost duller sound compared to the junk monoprice one. Some of those $20 cables even make it seem like the center image is too high and almost in my forehead. Funny enough I don't think I would ever have known or believed a cable could have an impact even if it was working properly if not for that cheap monoprice cable. There has to be something with similar specs but better connectors on it that I am missing.

[@Currawong]

I haven't explored cheap interconnects myself. I have a few sets of relatively expensive ones that I patiently waited until I found them second-hand at the right price, as well as cables I DIY'ed myself. For

[@mrcrunch8000]

@@Currawong Thank you for the response. For some reason I never thought to look for used interconnects. I will either have to do that or just break down and build one which I have done with all my balanced cables. I appreciate you giving me an example of a known good one.

[@mrcrunch8000]

@@Currawong Sorry to bother you with another question but do you have any thoughts on coaxial cable vs standard cables for an rca interconnect? I didn't notice before but the cable I like is actually made from a coaxial cable and all the others I tried seem to be just a standard wire. Did you use coaxial or standard wire for your diy rca's?

[@Currawong]

I've used both. It only matters if you want the cable to double as a digital S/DPIF interconnect as well, which some of the coaxial ones that use 75 Ohm cable can do.

[@mrcrunch8000]

@@Currawong Thanks for the response but I was more curious on your thoughts on sound differences but it is ok. I found my preference and seem to like the sound I get from using coaxial cables as rca cables over anything else I have tried so far including the mogami based rca I made. I am glad I finally bought some mogami wire though. I don't get the praise of that stuff compared to other wire I have used in the past. Thanks though.

[@fantasyrulz]

Lol if money is none issue then definitely not 789 but if it on a Budget then 789 is a true bargain. I’m using it with SMSL SU-8 and it’s quite good! I’m also using RME Adi-2 DAC too. To compare both I would choose rme adi-2 dac over 789 as rme gives me more control over 789. Sounds quality wise it’s identical to me. Btw I’m using zmf aeolus and Creative emu-teak headphone.

[@ADesertVoice]

I don't know man. I'd say sound quality becomes subjective when comparing the 789 to higher end systems and the so called "upgrade" to the sound is so miniscule, it does not justify the extra $$$ you need to spend. The SMSL SP200, 789 are that good.

[@hitmangfx7162]

HD800 pairing good or bad? :)

[@lefoobar]

I pair it with the HD800 and love it :) Powers them nicely and I've seen other people comparing the sound to electrostats! (Don't know how true that is, though!)

[@allansh828]

@@lefoobar Have you compared single-ended and the balanced output?

[@cirotube74]

hello, but the monolith 887 thx and the smsl sp 200 are not really balanced? the violectrix 280 instead is completely balanced?

[@Currawong]

Here's the thing: It doesn't matter.

[@Dunring]

Terrific review, I've got one and tried 3 cable interconnects, the Amazon Basic, Monoprice Stage Right, and the Worlds Best Cables. In blind tests I could always tell the difference and the Worlds Best sounded much better. Don't skimp on interconnects with these. I agree about balanced DAC's, I fell for it and got the Topping D10b which is excellent, except it only says in the manual that you clip internally in high gain mode if you don't reduce power to 2.1v (-7db reduction). I tried it with my original AK4490 JDS Atom and it sounds great too, without the hassle of reducing power for some headphones. For gaming I like the JDS Atom and Drop THX One (have that also) but for music the Topping D10b and THX 789 is fantastic. The SMSL SP200 had more micro detail, but flatter sound stage (similar depth to the Heresy).

[@Numan7398]

Do you think it would be a good idea to pair it with the ifi zen dac v2?

[@workshop4224]

Would probably be fine for most headphones, I went with geshelli jnog2 for balanced probably best bang for buck but they do take like 4 weeks for shipping.

[@adeadcrab]

great review.. a hidden gem no more

[@simonsachsstahl622]

I recived my 789 today. It is fantastic. A bargain and great value. Buy it and invest the rest of your money in a good dac or better headphones ❤️ Thanks Amos for the review! I would not have bought it if you had not recommended it!

[@x-techgaming]

What I've learned recently is... Get a Hugo 2, after you have made it to the $500 amp + $500 DAC stage of life.

[@vitaliistep]

Thank you.

[@o.f.ftrack3444]

You look like Tom Hanks lesser known twin brother.

[@metalmckanical]

Damn you, lol. Now I can't unseen it.

[@nicolasyance40]

metalmckanical me too😆

[@jacobsteele7138]

Kip?

[@klewja]

I prefer the liquid platinum over the thx.

[@Currawong]

That doesn't surprise me. I remember trying the prototype years back and it was fantastic.

[@lonestar1664]

worth spending to pair with Hugo 2 to drive HD800s and Arya or will I lose resolution and will I gain more Power over Hugo2

[@Currawong]

I don't see a point with the HD800S. I'm not sure about the Aryas, though they should drive directly from the Hugo 2 well enough. If you were going to buy an amp, you'd probably want to get a Qutest + amp.

[@bluevoodooiv7072]

I admire your ability to say straight-faced that balanced/single ended doesn't make a difference but cheap/expensive cables do.

[@Currawong]

I didn't actually say that it doesn't make a difference, if you listened carefully. I said that choosing a cheap balanced DAC could potentially be worse than choosing a cheap single-ended DAC. I forgot to add, now I think of it, that the XLR input goes through an extra set of opamps to convert it to SE internally, so an inexpensive balanced DAC wouldn't be of benefit. I think people get hung up on the idea of balanced DACs and amps without understanding that it is merely a design choice of the manufacturer, and not some magic thing that makes the sound better.

[@patrickf6120]

@@Currawong Would the SMSL SU-8 be in your category of cheap balanced DACs?

[@o.f.ftrack3444]

I noticed that you typically choose the 6xx over the 600 & 660s when comparing products. I'm not sure if you simply don't own the 660s for example but would the 150ohm 660s benefit less than the 300ohm 650/6xxx? Or is it simply a personal preference?

[@Currawong]

I don't own the 600 or 660.

[@SemaphoreNewgrounds]

Is it better than a Aune S6/pro in terms of soundquality?

[@nicktan4530]

YES

[@df0rce]

Fantastic job! Thanks

[@nicktan4530]

How does this competes with HPA-4 THX 888 in sound performance ?

[@Currawong]

Good question.

[@i.shadrin]

Nice unit - you can store a breakfast inside as well

[@ravoid36]

do you review smaller amps? try out the new geshelli archel 2. its 150$ and has even lower distortion than this.

[@Currawong]

But that is meaningless. The difference between, say, -120dB of distortion and -140dB is below the noise performance of the individual components! It also has poor headphone drive, so in actual use, the distortion will be much higher. It's important to understand that measurements are done using sweeps and tones, NOT music. It's like the difference between testing the engine of a car on a test stand versus driving it. The former is NOT a measure of the latter.

[@klaymoon1]

Thanks for another great review!

[@cleanerpath94]

Oh shit, I was waiting for this hit piece

[@RaiseYourFamily]

How can i connect my Dap - Ibasso DX220 to Thx887 balanced? I have balanced output on my dap

[@Currawong]

You can get 4.4 to XLR cables. I'd be surprised though if you lose anything connecting it via the single-ended output.

[@giff74]

I'm trying to make the jump from "better" entry level audio (for example AT M40X headphones) to intermediate dac, amp and headphones. There are lots of folks who discuss $200-300 headphones and $200-500 amps, but why does everyone dance around about dacs? Serious question, not being sarcastic. I feel like it's one of those times where I don't know what I don't know here.

[@Currawong]

Time for me to do a video just about DACs.

[@giff74]

@@Currawong That would be very appreciated! I understand what a DAC does, but don't understand how to differentiate them by sound or price.

[@edwarddodge7937]

Good question. Used to wonder about that myself. Short answer: DACs don't matter at all if the rest of your chain is lo-fi. More resolving headphones and more transparent amps make DAC deficiencies/differences much more apparent. For example a Schiit Asgard/Jotenheim (or the 789) and a headphone like the HD6XX would be enough to show you the difference between the Modi and the Modi Multibit.

[@hifix-man319]

Dear Mr. Wang: I will really appreciate it if you could tell me how does the Susvara sound with Thx aaa compared to pro Ican. I found the SS on pro Ican too dried and sterile, so I am worried if thx aaa is the similar before I pull the trigger.

[@Currawong]

You might want to get my name right before asking a question. ;) A currawong is this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5izdJRraK9oe68 You'll find the THX AAA "too dry and sterile" I reckon. You need a powerful tube amp of some form I reckon to suit your tastes and get the Susvaras really going.

[@DarkPa1adin]

Thx 789 and focal Clear will be my end game combo. And I am not into audiophile.

[@brucekhamp6859]

Yo, can someone help me out here. I just got in my 789 yesterday (the older Massdrop version if that makes a difference) and I have to paired with my Mbox Mini 3rd gen audio interface via Mogami XLR. I'm using my Audeze LCD X with this setup with high hopes of beautiful clarity and neutral listening, but some things seem off. One, my gain switch doesn't appear to work. I'm currently listening to music on youtube, turning the switch from 1 to 2 to 3 and get no sound difference. Another thing is I've noticed that while some things sound great there are some things that sound almost fuzzy/distorted or just low quality. Is that due to my volume on the 789 or the Mbox (audio interface) or maybe my PC?? I just really want some help with this so I can get back to listening to some awesome music and work on MY music. Prease and a tank you

[@Currawong]

The Mbox Mini, as far as I can see, uses TS or TRS outputs. Are you sure it is TRS to XLR cables that are correct? If they are SE outputs, and you're connecting them to XLR, you could be shorting the circuit, causing problems with the 789.

[@brucekhamp6859]

@@Currawong Boy am I so glad you got back with me. I've already contacted the seller that I got it from, which was listed as new by the way, and told him that I think I have a faulty headphone amp (the 789). I've been troubleshooting like crazy the past 3 days to make sure it's not defective or anything. I've plugged different cans into the amp, swapped the cables around, fiddled with the volumes on my PC/Mbox Mini/789, and just today I plugged the 789 directly into my synth and still the gain switch never seems to change/alter anything. There is no audible difference in sound. Now, I see you mention the TRS & TS thing on my Mbox. So yeah, I have my headphones (LCD X's) going into the 789 through 1/4 single ended and have the amp going out to the Mbox Mini via the Mogami XLR to TRS. Is there a problem with this??

[@MadSupra354]

What chair do you have?

[@Currawong]

A Herman Miller with an aftermarket headrest.

[@bryanherr1093]

Does it have preouts to use as a preamp?

[@Currawong]

No. I wish it had.

[@bryanherr1093]

Currawong thanks

[@fernandagunsanchannel]

please do SMSL SAP 12

[@djhmax09]

What if you use the 789 as a power amp, cranking volume and gain all the way up then controlling via the dac? Or does that add distortion by doing that?

[@Currawong]

You can definitely do that. Note that some volume pots have channel imbalance at the very start and very end of their travel, so maybe almost all the way up might be better if you're using the DAC as the volume control. Experiment and find a good balance I reckon.

[@djhmax09]

Currawong are you technically adding distortion though, or does the distortion occur when your input gain is too high? Will do, thanks for the reply!

[@drunkdriver]

I was close to spending this month's food budget on an enog2, but now I'm just gonna buy a modi and live till 2020. Thanks Curra.

[@scottlowell493]

Caveat on the drop products: while massive power is available balanced out, the single-ended out is nothing special.

[@Currawong]

That's pretty normal for balanced amps -- the priority is put on the quality of the balanced output. Most people, even from the SE output, wont reach a point where it will matter, unless they are listening at a stupidly loud volume.

[@jnhnauo6212]

Great channel

[@rahoolification]

Your intro is the same as the Channel Federico talks Watches. Wonder who used it first ;)

[@Currawong]

The music is from KZbin, and the idea of a musical intro with fast cuts comes from TV shows from way back, so that's probably why they are similar.

[@mfjklm5293]

I compared the 789 with my Burson HA-160D and Nuforce HA-200. 789 sounds extremely lifeless and muddy. I expected a much better sound from it, but it turned out to be very mediocre.