Z Review - Schiit Vali 2 (Hybrid Tube)

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[@1lllllllll1]

I just really appreciate how totally, completely, utterly nerdy this guy is, with the head cam, the anime desktop, it’s legit.

[@oreos3174]

I trust his word

[@dietaryfiberisasocialconstruct]

bruhhh ik

[@orborbea9844]

He is my go to guy for anything audio, his word is gold 🤩

[@TheSteveCast]

Would you consider buying the Yamaha RS-202 over the Vali 2 or the Magni to mainly drive the HD650? (And I say mainly because it'd be nice to have the chance to also drive your speakers too with the Yamaha).

[@ZReviews]

Yamaha is not a top notch headphone amp. The Magni would be my go-to.

[@eloyADAN]

id like to ask for sound demos comparing amps with that little switcher

[@ZReviews]

I built a 5 way switcher to compare amps. But don't have 5 amps to compare...

[@leleedler]

I am in a bit of a dilemma, I am looking for an amp around 100$. I have looked at the Fulla 2 and I think that is my best option but, idk. I really could push and get the Schiit Stack but, that's really pushing my comfort levels especially because I don't have the proper RCA cables and I can't drop 230$ for an Amp and a DAC. Any suggestions, I really wanted to stay around that 100$ area but, I don't think there is a lot of great sounding options that I know of.

[@mfmishere]

I'm enjoying the Fulla 2 plenty. I use it for my Hd650 and love that it has a variable line out for my powered monitors. It's super practical. Now after owning that since December, I'm getting the craving for a tube amp in which case I will still use the Fulla 2 as a DAC via the fixed line out to either DarkVoice or Valhalla 2 all while keeping my current setup intact. For $100, you really can't go wrong with the Fulla 2.

[@leleedler]

mfmishere Thanks man, good to know. I did see it could work as just a DAC. I think I'll get the Fulla now and then get a Valhalla later on. Thanks.

[@k8jjd]

please try using nos old telefunken tube YOU will here a diff

[@psychoticbreaks167]

I owned both an M2U and Vali 2 for a month because I couldn't decide and didn't know what to think based on what I read. I was leery of comments made on the Vali 2. However, I did find myself reaching for the Vali 2 most often. It's less fatiguing to me. I think it's a little warmer, but definitely closer to neutral. I'm running it into 250 ohm DT-990's, which are unforgiving of the M2U's brightness on treble-happy tracks, whereas the Vali 2 sounds more musical and refined. The improved synergy gets me there. It's not something I notice too much immediately... ...but it's definitely something that keeps me from getting too far past the hour mark with the M2U. Rolling the tubes does seem to make a difference. It may not pump "real-deal" tube voltage, but it certainly feeds the tube a lot more than a Bravo Ocean or something like it. That aside, the compatible tubes for this amp aren't designed for really high plate voltages... ...they're more suited to

[@FredroStarr12]

thank you, split between the magni and vali, I went with a Vali based on your experience. What other tubes do you recommend to pair with it?

[@blackr0se]

Me too, picking the Vali. Instead of watching this 12 minute shaky scattered video, i got more info from reading this first comment in under a minute.

[@mariodrv]

@@FredroStarr12 He simply does not know what he is talking about and has very badly trained ears, plus his format does not allow him to spend the necessary time with the things he reviews. The tubes you wanna get are Electro Harmonix 6922 or 6CG7 (even better), there are even better ones but it gets expensive relative to the price of the Vali 2. And you will need an adapter for some.

[@marknielsen8977]

@@blackr0se I'm with you, couldn't watch this drop kick.

[@mranthony1886]

From all the reading online - the default Tubes are fine... but to get the most out of this unit you need to upgrade the tubes. I bought the PCC88/7DJ8 PHILIPS NOS VALVE/TUBE after reading that someone had paired it with my X2HR online.

[@scotth6284]

In response to your question at the end, I have a Vali 2 and a Magni 2U. The difference was night and day. The Vali 2 was much warmer, fuller, etc. Then I compared them with a quick switch and yeah they sound identical. A hard lesson was learned that day.

[@bigal6669]

Scott H thank you. Now I know. I am going to get the Magni 2 U, and a dark voice to pair it up.

[@sarfaraz.hosseini]

Scott H Did you only use the stock tube? Changing tubes does have a very appreciable effect, and lift the Vali 2 well above its price point imo

[@cowboyflipflopped]

"Lift the Vali 2 well above its price point..." Well, yeah, but you're adding to the price paid for that, too.

[@samblero]

I have a Little Dot MKII with Mullard tubes connected to my Creative PC soundcard, which has a powerfull solid state amp for headphones, and i did the switch thing to compare with and without the tube amp. They sounded identical in all the songs i tried for like 30 minutes. Sometimes i didn't know which one i was listening. Then i said "Fuck this.." and put'd the headphones directly to the Creative soundcard thinking in selling the Little dot. After 5 minutes i had fatigue as i always had before using the tube amp, and i was playing a song that sounded painfully, an horrible treble. Did connect the tube amp and it was soft. I did the switch thing again with that song and i discovered the tube amp only softens the treble, the fatiguing part of the treble, in a very VERY noticeable way. If the music you are hearing doesn't have fatiguing treble then you will not notice any difference. I use it always, even for games and movies because it's like a bodyguard that says "Fuck off!" everytime the treble wants to attack me.

[@jiggie2g]

I own both the Magni 2 Uber and the Vali 2 stacked and the main difference I notice is better overall soundstage and warmer sound on the Vali 2. It's actually my preferred choice for movies when paired with my SHP-9500's. Although I do prefer the Magni 2 Uber for most types of music.

[@Compaq77777]

Someone should seriously send him Valhalla 2 for a review.

[@Jamesw2401]

Somebody send this man a Lyr 2! (Vali's big brother)

[@TheRoshan89]

Z have you had the chance to check out the littledot mk3? i hear its one of the best, its like 10 bucks more than the dark voice, but has a true tube sound. I heard the darvoice has some issues with humming and that the ld mk3 is a bit better quality overall. also if u got the ld mk3 with your fostex mk3 you could call your setup the mk6 xD

[@NightFlight1973]

Like woah woah woah. What tube were you using? Different tubes sound very different due to the neutral output stage. If you pick a tube (stock) that sounds like SS, then it sounds like SS. If you drop in an Amperex tube or a Russian tube - they will sound totally different. Also, your notion of switching and audio memory is flawed. Its more persistent if you stay on one signature for a long time. Ie, listen for a week and then change tube. You'll be shocked at the change. Switching back and forth quickly is... not the best method. It requires patience.

[@dariovigil7762]

That makes no sense.

[@onetwo234]

Darío Vigil drink reverse osmosis water for a week then drink sink water

[@MusicRoxz23]

Own the Vali 2 w/Modi 2, usually run HD600's with an Amperex orange globe 6DJ8. Slight change (vs other amps, and vs stock tube) in signature in terms of warmth and imaging, to me worth using over a solid state solely for the slight changes you might make, especially considering rolling for it can be pretty cheap. If you want a proper tube amp, don't get this, it really is near insignificant. If you wanna have a little fun, or just that sliiight tweak in sound, go for it.

[@TurtleFul]

I am calling the name "The metaphysical properties of sound" ... for what ... I have no idea. But its mine!

[@ryanjofre]

Amen 🙏

[@TeamRetroWorld]

Would the tubes sound warmer if I cover them in Snickers wrappers and hot glue?

[@adriannasyraf3534]

nah bruh, just play my mixtape and it'll be on fire.

[@daviewavie112]

Can I have the 2 seconds of my life back that I wasted reading this comment?

[@scott91575]

I own a Vali 2. No, it's not going to be better than more expensive tube amps that are true tube amps. Yet rolling in tubes really does change the sound. The tube that comes with it (although that one varies on whatever they have in stock) is ok. Yet if you buy something like a Mullard Blackburn things will definitely change and be a warmer. I have a pair of Sennheiser HD700 and it does calm some of the highs. So while it may not be 100% "tube like" it does give you the option to play with the sound you get by rolling tubes. Of course that can get really expensive. Yet if you know the sound signature you are looking for many people can give you recommendations that will at least get you in the ballpark.

[@NeilManalo]

Own the magni 2 and heard the vali 2, the vali 2 is about only 10% warmer sounding than the magni with the stock tubes. That's pretty much it.

10%? What does it even mean!

[@NeilManalo]

about 10% warmer, very minimal difference.

[@cameronzy279]

So basically, if you've got ever so slightly bright headphones and you want to bump down some sibilance, Vali 2

[@scott91575]

Tube rolling will change it a fair amount. The tubes they have sent with it (varies depending when you bought it) tend to be more neutral.

[@BloodRaven1011]

Yep. The Vali 2 is a hilariously good for the money amp to pair with the HD800. Takes some of the edge off.

[@ryanjofre]

When an awesome dude has terrible camera work. I wanna love you but I’m getting really dizzy. I’m subbing even though I’m sick now.

[@BobMontgomery]

Vali with the right tube is incredible. I'm a big fan of the NOS Phillips/Amperex tubes, personally.

[@sarfaraz.hosseini]

Bob Montgomery Exactly. I was unimpressed with the stock tube. I put a Phillips in, and wow!

[@BushSniffers]

Sarfaraz Hussein Merchant have you got a link to the tube course using? I just bought one and would like to compare

[@cooleycollege01]

My father has some old bugle boy and mullard, basically exotic NOS ecc88s that I can throw in one so I'm pumped to try it out sooner or later

[@TheRoshan89]

FUCKING AWESOME!! thank you so much for this review z....i've been waiting forever for a good vali 2 review...been shoppping tube amps for a long time!! glad i didn't get the vali 2, cus if i pay for a tube amp, i want a tube sound!! lol lot of people told me the vali 2 is neutraly, but glad to finally get it Z confrimed!!

[@NsMs96]

Since it's a hybrid the output stage is still class A/B just like the Magni so you'd expect them to sound very similar. Trying to justify getting this over the Magni with objective performance is very hard, but the same goes for any tube amp unless it's specifically designed to be different in some desireable way. Guitar amps often use tubes because they distort in a different way but when you power headphones you obviously don't want, and most of the time don't have, much distortion from the headphone amp. It's just like vinyl or carburetors or any other old technology that enthusiasts still use even though new superior technology is avalible. The fact that the Vali sounds almost exactly like a solid state amp means it's a good tube amp just like a carburetor that performs like fuel injection would be the best carb ever built. It uses old tube technology for the gain stage instead of solid state. Why? Because people want it.

[@PentaAudio1]

Save money and but a Little Dot MK IV. That thing won't come out smoking and warm like hell like the Darkvoice

[@ZReviews]

What fun is that.

[@PentaAudio1]

You win this time.

[@TheRoshan89]

hey don't get the MK4 get the mk3!! i tried the mk4, even though its OTL, it sounds identical to a solid state just like the vali 2 - the mk3 is literally one of the only tube amps ive tried that has a true tube sound!! lot of the thousand dollar+ tube amps are also designed to sound just like solid state.

[@avi8485]

Jason Stoddard has mentioned on head-fi that the tube they chose for the Vali 2 is purposely very flat and almost SS sounding. What you get with the Vali 2 is the option to "roll" in any tube you prefer, less tubey, more tubey, etc... see the Vali 2 tube rolling thread on head-fi

[@boobio1]

Do they have a ss amp that sounds very tubey but you can change it later to sound less tubey?

[@trackntrail2869]

No m8

[@Jossienheimer]

sure okay, but isnt buying a tube for the purpose of messing with the sound up a bit? sounds like a cooperate cash grabbing sceme... if he made is SS sounding on purpose, and the Magni already existing, then what is the point of the Vali 2?

[@niconiconii4561]

lycan amp. zeos reviewed it

[@brettmiller1074]

so you can look down and see a tube sticking out of your amp and tell your friends you are an audiophile who rolls tubes and they won't understand and you'll feel good about yourself.

[@canny7x]

Thank you for saving me money! I have the Modi and a Heresy. I'll stick with that combo. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@peterverlinde5421]

Please , If you want to do another review place the camera on a fixed element. This makes me dizzy !!!!

[@scottlowell493]

How does the speed of frequency change? Ie- 8khz is 8khz. One speed.

[@aaronmunn2918]

the tube sound on this amp is subtle and mostly effects the soundstage, especially with the stock tubes. there's very low distortion, which is actually a good thing from an audiophile perspective. I have alot of fun with the Chinese 6j1 preamp... they have much more obvious tube sound fuzziness and distortion. But they are not "hi-fi" whereas the Vali 2 is definitely a very low noise hi-fi component and can be used to listen to a wide variety of music. The 6j1 amps, on the other hand, do not work well with some music with lots of heavy bass as they will have too much distortion (not just "warm" sound).

[@Schmidteren]

the switch behind is that for on off only? no switch to change headphones to phono out? Anyone tried Soekris dac/amps?

[@lindsethnittisju797]

Dude keep your head still if your filming with it

[@seberiusalperelli2412]

are you shaking the video on purpose? very disturbing

[@johnm5495]

I got seasick watching your video, only lasted ten seconds

[@PandaLikesTofu]

You've earned a subscriber! Great insight, it really helped me choose an amp.

[@ebiscaia]

Z Reviews Maybe you remember I asked you about using the Darkvoice's preamp out. Your impressions are matched. But if I'd like to request one more thing: use the Darkvoice's headphone out to another amp to see whether the sound keeps tubey or not. Thanks for your entertaining videos

[@ledfed1912]

i fucking love schiit

[@danielhesse8600]

What switchbox is that? I'm looking for one right now.

[@Coreyj4795]

I see those Kanto in the background ;) Always wanted to give them a try, can;t wait for the review!

[@reoayoutube3779]

Bruh, your music is too loud

[@SteveMyers_]

I'd love to see a review of the Schiit Ragnarok from you.

[@kawhileonardmichaeljackson8501]

nice, some rick james in the beginning of the video.

[@Ticusana]

Can u review more headphones tube amps, like little dot mk 2, 3

[@anirudhvyas6069]

It just gets extremely extremely hot for me, so hot that I wanna turn them off cuz I fear fire (the Tube I can understand but whole stack gets hot) - I bought schiit dac and vali 2 - maybe a poor first choice I do not know but certainly seems like it now - The sound meh i am 35+ can I find the difference? don't think so, I have sennheiser hd600. can't complain on sennheiser except they are harsh for my jaws (just too tight). anyways.

[@jason5897]

Your timing is perfect, I was just thinking about getting this

[@jdstarek]

I just did buy it a month ago...☹️

[@jason5897]

At least it does seem to be a very good amp, just not really a good entry point for tubes. Based on my searches, it also holds resale value pretty well

[@jdstarek]

It's certainly better than just plugging into my laptop...so I'm happy with the purchase. And to be honest I just liked the way it looked on my desk...kinda knew the tube was more 'show' than 'go.' I didn't realize the Darkvoice was only about $260...I woulda bought that instead. But I'm probably better off since I listen to mostly electronic music of various genres. An SS is probably better than a tube for my music.

[@terrydoran8689]

Just received this amp a few weeks ago and I disagree with a lot of what's said here. If by having tube sound he means bloated bass and rolled off highs, yes it does not sound like that, thank god. What it does do is sound stage and smoothness. The sound stage moves out from in your head and in to the room more and instrument placement is very good. I just received an Electro Harmonix 6922 from Tube Depot and it made a significant improvement in sound, with a deeper more present bass and more extended highs, so yes you can tube roll and here differences. Probably not as much as an all tube amp but I spent a lot less money than rolling an all tube amp with two to four tubes in it. The price is not 149.99, lower than when this review was posted, which makes this an incredible deal.

[@CaveyMoth]

It's not a tubah!

[@ytubs]

which headphone amp is the small one ? the silver black one is it powerful enough to drive hd600s or k7xx?

[@ZReviews]

The SMSL SAP VI. Yes it is.

[@ytubs]

Z Reviews Thanks!!!

[@smileyface3107]

How do I connect the magni uber 2 to my focusrite 2i2? What cords will I need. Great video btw. (I have HD650 headphones)

[@eduardoquiroga6804]

can i use this as a phono preamp?

[@ryanb7649]

Nope, you need a preamp with an RIAA stage, like the Mani.

[@ccolagio_]

Considering the new prices with Magni 2 being $100 and Vali 2 being at $150 - the difference is very very notable. I'm fortunate enough to live not too far from the Schiit demo store and I went there just yesterday to check out the gear. Took my same headphones and went back and forth between two stacks to compare these two headphone amps. The difference was very very discernible. Very discernible. Went back and forth playing the same track and same sections and I much preferred the Vali over the Modi. The bass sound much better to me. And as did overall sound. I did keep the Vali 2 in the low setting. Did not like the sound in its high setting. The difference between the two sounds was well worth the added $50. I'll be buying a Vali 2 for sure. I've learned that audio reviews are kind of a hard thing to really take seriously - it's so damn subjective. I went to the demo store and compared two products and without a doubt would say the Vali 2 outperformed the Magni and I could tell a large difference...but I don't have a youtube channel so be your own judge.

[@ytwill221]

About 350 volts for the 300b. Note that if there is a short you could- get that kind of voltage on the speaker (phone) outputs. Likewise- if you hit that tube with your hand and it breaks- and your hand touches the metal stuff in there- which is 350 volts- getting burned and cut will be the smaller of your problems problem. .... sorry but we dont want, you know..

[@Gorectomy]

The point of the vali 2 with the stock tube is to sound very close to Solid State, and then you are supposed to go out and roll them tubes. Many tubes that fit the Vali 2 (and actually can give you that warmth) can be found for under 10 dollars. many recommend the 6N1p EV -> rutubes.com/product/6n1p-ev-e88cc-6n1p-eb-6922-tube/

[@ProfessorMatic]

Most tube amps HT voltage is around 400-500 rarely doe's it get as high as 600. Preamps generally operate around 120-240. Running a preamp tube at a lower voltage such as under 70 causes it to run out of the ideal power curve. Thus adding to the distortion of the signal, The negative feedback is the only thing that keeps it acceptable. I tend to like tube preamps that use SRPP at 300 volts or more. I don't use or like amps that employ negative feedback of any kind.

[@ultradude5410]

You say that the $300 Darkvoice is the cheapest "real" tube amp out there, however, might I bring to your attention the Little Dot MKii, the successor to the MKi hybrid tube amp you reviewed a bit ago. Unlike the MKi, the MKii is not a hybrid, and costs ~$200, and sometimes shows up on massdrop for a little over $100. I own one, and I love it, it certainly sounds "tubey" to me.

[@cozymonk]

You're not going to be able to tell much difference between tubes if you listen to a song or just for a little while, then switch to another after several seconds. However, if you use the same tube for a long time--like maybe a week--and let your ears get used to its characteristics and allow it to become natural to your ears, you will *definitely* hear a difference when you switch to a different tube. Is that worth it, though? I have one and I think it's great. I bought it vs the magni mostly just because I like the way it looks. I didn't think they'd sound too different.

[@jlozano2014]

I am really new to the audio world, so will the Little Dot MK2 MKII or the Schiit Vali 2 drive my new Sennheiser Hd 6XX well? And do I NEED a dac? or will these do the trick?

[@vinkelsier8513]

I paid $200 for the Centrance HD DAC/AMP, no regrets, plus I love the portable of it. I might get the Darkvoice down the road, doubt it, still saving for STAX someday.

[@ssglitchers]

Zeos could you review the SybaSonic DAC/Amp it's a budget combo that is being manufactured by the same people that make the Micca Origen which you tend to recommend. I'd love to know what you think of it.

[@sarfaraz.hosseini]

Which tube(s) did you use? Having changed out the stock tubes which I found anaemic, and I did notice a big difference in sound and my enjoyment. I switched back and forth, and I feel its more than a placebo effect.

[@gizmothewytchdoktor1049]

it's a headphone amp...not a power amplifier. think of it as a filter/processor rather than something to expect a lot of gain from.

[@kevreynolds6650]

His voice is like Philip Seymour Hoffman !!! and as far as i know that he already dead 3 years now, so is this a Zombie?!!

[@StrainXv]

love the name.

[@sleepysloth847]

The camera perspective is different, but I like it. Looking at getting into higher end audio equipment with little experience in the department.

[@OpTiclightning]

thanks for the bright review man! Subscribed immediately. can you recommend an amo for the AKG k12 pro I want to buy? people say the headphones are very picky and I'm afraid they won't sound good with a solid state amp, Please help! I don't have an external dac either, do I need that?. currently using Sony mdr xb700, i reckon the 712's are a real upgrade right? many thanks!

[@Den_Anderen]

Hi! I've stumbled down this rabbit hole of headphone audio and found myself wondering if i should buy a dac first or an amp. Or does one not function without the other? (an entry-level video with explanation of set-ups would be nice for this)

[@cameronzy279]

A DAC, depending on it's power output and something very entry level and effective, the SMSL SD-793-II, I can run 50 ohm HD 558s with only the DAC and I never go above 50% volume. The hamp brightens up the sound, kills some clarity and bass, I wouldn't use that unit for the amp. I'll probably start my Schiit Schmear with an amp just to get by whenever I get my Argons from Modhouse (www.modhouseaudio.com/argon/argon) guy is very nice, he printed me adapters for my 558s. Something like a Fiio D03K which is a USB powered DAC that's fed by an optical cable, can't quite run my M20Xs which I have since broken. Cheaper all in one units, Micca Origen, the SMSL I mentioned and the Fiio E10K which you'd have to watch his review of. To get started, I wouldn't jump straight into getting separate units. You can get away with a DAC but I'd think maybe when you get passed 50 ohms, you won't be getting far. A Schiit Modi 2 (or it's the magni, whichever is the DAC), since it draws power from an outlet and not a USB port, I think you could get away with it for a while, just be careful not to buy 250 ohm or 600 ohm beyerdynamics, maybe planar drivers would run. they should but I haven't tested it. An amp you're really only going to need when and this is dependent upon your DACs output power, your budget goes up and so does your taste. That's not saying low impedance headphones aren't expensive but you'll probably want to experiment.

[@scott91575]

You need both. The DAC converts digital output into analog (which you need to hear since we don't hear 1's and 0s') and you need an amp to make that audible. There are DAC/Amp combos so it's one unit. Yet you have to make sure you get a DAC/Amp combo. If you buy a separate DAC you need an amp and vice versa.

[@cameronzy279]

Scott N I'm running off of full DAC power from an SD 793-II. Amp sucks in it, I have plenty of headroom. General rule of thumb, planar and higher impedance cans need amps.

[@scott91575]

Cameron ZY What you have is a DAC/Amp combo. Everything needs some sort of amp. High impedance just needs higher power amps.

[@cameronzy279]

Scott N Not quite the case but I agree. The power coming out of this DAC is enough for most headphones. I know what it is (you're already assuming i'm a newbie) I know what the parts do, i'm simply implying you don't NEED an amplifier if your DAC gives you enough headroom and volume.

[@muhammadarifjaya4542]

Hey Z, could you make a video review for "best" studio monitoring headphones on some "hype" studio monitoring (M50x, M40x, SRH440, Sony 7506, Seinn lineup)? Oh btw, I still waiting for you on SRH440 after your SRH840 review(and make some headsup video on this two). Keep up the Good Work, man! :)

[@jdavis234]

I have this and a Magni Heresy. The Magni smokes this. Better detailed, cleaner, brighter sound overall. Wouldn’t bother looking for tube sound with this thing.

[@heythere6983]

Ever try the ifi amps? I just got the ifi hip dac/amp . It’s solid and has a very useful bass boost BUT I wanted to hear the Magni 3 plus or Hersey, that being said. The bass boost is really useful . I wonder though what kind of benefit this has over it. Problem is if you return there is a restocking fee

[@kevinstanchfield3237]

I just wanted to say that tubes are best used as an input amp efficiency-wise.

[@Sithma]

I have the Vali2 , i rolled some tube but you were totally right.. It doesnt sound tubey at all... Darkvoice seems a better option but what do you think about Little Dot ones?

[@kylestevens2141]

Do you think you have to have a tube amp for the HD 650?

[@beeflasagna3150]

Yes but what if I want to power planars?

[@josrvr]

Drop the link for the wallpaper bruh

[@vernonneal5563]

I think his review is bias. Probably because Uber gave him a free unit . I have both the Uber and theVali 2. The Schiitt Vali2 sounds smoother and better to my ears. The review must have a hearing problem

[@ZReviews]

Who gave who a free unit? I borrow or buy 95% of everything on this channel. And Schiit doesn't even reach out. Which is why the Patreon exists. So the Jotunheim can be shit on if it is shit. (PS it isn't)

[@ArmandD]

If your favourite headphone is the Audio Technica 2000x (according to your headphone recommendation guide), why dot you never use them and use the HD600s instead?

[@ZReviews]

I use them all the time. Just not on camera

[@kreechrr]

I have a Modi 2, Magni 2, and Vali 2... When I was doing comparisons, I ended up preferring the Vali 2 for my DT 990 600 Ohms. My Magni 2 is now in my desk drawer, but as I have just gotten a pair of HD650's (literally yesterday) I am considering doing another comparison. I personally haven't found issue with the Vali 2 and my HD650's, but I am curious about maybe finding more differences with these new cans? Side note: HD650's from DT990's is such an improvement! I find the HD650's provide a much more consistent listening experience. My DT990's often were just painful to listen to. Occasionally, they'd be tolerable... but the inconsistency definitely worsened over time.

[@kellanmackenzie5230]

Q. Code Any follow up with the 650s? I'm considering the Vali as my first tube amp. I'll be pairing them with 650s as well

[@Steadybeheady]

What would you say would be your next choice for a tube amp, aside from the DarkVoice? I keep hearing that the DarkVoice isn't good with low impedance HP's, and that the tubes it comes with suck. I'm using a AKG 712 Pro, Hifiman HE400i and HD 598's. So.. all under 100 ohms.

[@swifty1969]

Hi is13coco, I'm glad I ran into your comment. Since you have both the akg k712pro and he-400i, could you please tell me how you compare the two in sound quality and comfort. I myself have the akg k712pro and was thinking to purchase the 400i. Does 400i planar blow away the akg? thanks!

[@Tarex3]

I will say I just ordered a Schiit Magni and Vali and honestly something about the product drew me in. I grew up in band and choir, and I haven't flexed the musicality part of myself for many years until just recently. I will say as the most ignorant audio-interested person in the room, I'm grateful there's a product like this that's exposed me to what's out there. I work as a cable technician and it's so cool to consider RF Analog signal with work and how they relate to things here (to an extent). /rant. Thanks for the great content.✌

[@heythere6983]

How they sound? I just got an ifi hip dac/amp and it’s good, has a bass boost which sounds pretty Awesome like a car with a subwoofer that I can turn off if I want But I kinda want to compare to a magni3t or heresy. I wonder how the soundstage is and sound quality. Thing is the bass boost is a great feature

[@DrFearCo]

A "Step Up" transformer increases voltage

[@newENIO11]

isnt darkvoice an OTL tube amp?

[@bronsonosborne2064]

i have it and change the tube it sounds fantastic

[@FabiusMaximus1000]

I've been to shit valley a few times...

[@Romulus228]

What is your method of volume matching? I've found it quite difficult to do so, say within 0.5db.

[@ZReviews]

By ear back and forth with different music is usually enough. Not sure how accurate it is but I can't tell things apart after about 12 back and forth adjustments.

[@invictus7960]

Can you put every product mentioned in the video in the descriptions of your videos, I seem to have a hard time finding them.

[@ZReviews]

Can you be specific?

[@ralentinovossi8081]

What about the Mjolnir 2?

[@fredricknietzsche7316]

volts dont equal power.

[@ebiscaia]

If you want to try the original Vali there is one for sale on Schiit's site.

[@fredricknietzsche7316]

not any more.

[@JohnSmith-zl8rz]

this is better than the Magni 3?

[@jeremysmith3556]

if it made an actual difference you would know

[@pgp1976]

Any recommendations on a dac/amp combo that works well on a desktop but could be easily moved to a separate room/music isolation chamber? I have the HE-350s on order, but may want to play around with a pair of Fostex(Mkiii or possibly Massdrop THX00?

[@ZReviews]

The Micca Origen+ is portable enough. Unless you need it to be battery powered.

[@pgp1976]

+Z Reviews Thanks for the reply! I was thinking of maybe buying one of those 20,000 mah batteries to make it portable. I was thinking going fancy, but I keep coming back to the Micca. I like knobs. Is the dac on par with the Sanskrit 6th gen?

[@pilvikinkku1482]

Are the Philips SHP9500 worth 130 euros?

[@ZReviews]

Knowing the state of the European headphone market.. Yes.

[@jelbo64]

What is the brand and product name of the audio switch box?

[@ZReviews]

Sescom

[@mikereif7240]

Never buy tubish headphone amps. just a gimmick. I can draw more power out of my tube grundig shortwave from the 1950's. How to turn it into a workable dac amp for my electrostatic headphones is hard to do since it runs off of 220 voltage which I have to step down.

[@drewdagger7058]

What portable amp/dac do you recommend for the hd600's?

[@ZReviews]

Oppo Ha2 for all the things.

[@Xerxes1688]

Do they have a 1/4 or a 1/8 audio output jack? Can't really tell from here, and Schiit's website doesn't say it on the spec section.

[@ZReviews]

Schiit only does 1/4"

[@Xerxes1688]

Thanks for the answer, although I managed to figure that out by watching another of your videos (the "Schiit Stack V2 UBER Edition" one). That being said, you have earned a subscriber, sir. I'm on the hunt for a good music listening DAC/AMP/Headphones combo. I'm ruling out tube and hybrid amp for now and go for a Schiit Modi-Magni Uber stack (or spread more likely) for starters. BTW, nice desktop wallpaper.

[@slashdacoda]

plz review ASUS ESSENCE ONE MK2 MUSES edition !!!

[@slashdacoda]

maybe with u new babys t50rp ;)

[@UNLKYHNTR]

HD 600, X2 or the K712. i can't fucking decide. i like it with a bit more bass i have an SMSL M3

[@ZReviews]

X2

[@UNLKYHNTR]

Z Reviews thx

[@selbi182]

Best DAC/amp for the X2?

[@simonpeterchrist]

Zeos, did you change t50rp pads? What did u put on these? Is it worth it? If it's still the alcantaras shame on my eyes

[@ZReviews]

Those are the T20's with 1840 shure pads

[@simonpeterchrist]

Thanks for answering. I see one interesting video coming...

[@Viettzz]

Any recommendation for a DAC / Amp for TH900 headphone around $1k or under price?

[@ZReviews]

Sticking with my theory that DAC's max out rather cheap. The ODAC with RCA outs ($170) and an Asguard ($250) would be all you ever need.

[@Jossienheimer]

TH900s are pretty low impedence, so they probably wouldnt scale much going to $1000 amps.

[@mariodrv]

The more i come back and watch your older reviews the more i question your knowledge, experience and most of all hearing(for relevant details). You simply do not put enough time into really listening to these devices. Simply put - this is a very, very bad review, if it can be called that at all. Down in the comments you actually recommended a Magni 3 over a Vali 2 for a HD 600 - it boggles my mind how you can do that with a straight face. The Vali 2 is the best sounding amp under 500 bucks, competing with amps up to a thousand bucks only trumped by the Lyr 3 being a roided up version of it. This thing gives you the first glimpse of tube magic, that holographic quality that makes it feel more natural, ore enveloping - basically how uber kilobuck amps sound and it can be changed and improved upon! Heck for under 20 Bucks you can swap in an Electro Harmonix 6CG7 or 6922 and get a noticeably quieter noise floor a bit better resolution/detail better defined bass and a lusher midrange etc...

[@m.morininvestor9920]

Did you tried the Darkvoice with it's stock tubes? I really wonder how it is, and vs the Vali.

[@mariodrv]

@@m.morininvestor9920 No, have not heard it, bot i can tell you that with how good the Vali 2 sounds(i own a Woo Audio WA7d and WA22) there can not be much difference in sound quality. Which brings us to power output, since the Darkvoice is a transformerless tube amp and the Vali 2 a hybrid you get much more power out of the Vali. The Vali 2 with its 1W into 32 Ohms vs the 0.2 Watts of the Darkvoice is the clear winner since it simply gives more versatility. You can forget powering any kind of planars out of the Darkvoice, it is simply simply to week. The Vali 2 on the other hand sounds great with my LCD 2.2 pre-fazor, my Ether 2 and LCD2C and even good with my HE1000, HD800, HD700 all sound good, great or even fantastic (LCD2.2) with it. Then we get to the price, which is 100 bucks less, which nets you a great combo and synergy with the Modi 3 (i got that). Plus tube-rolling is much cheaper compared to the Darkvoice. Not saying the Darkvoice is bad, i presume the sound to be even "tubier" - it is simply that you get the best of both worlds with the Vali 2, power and the euphonic/holographic qualities of the Tube. At this pricepoint the Vali is simply better in every way. Oh and try to get the second revision - Vali 2 1.1 and put one of the two Electro Harmonix tubes ( 6CG7 or 6922) in there and thank me later. ;)

[@daviewavie112]

I have the darkvoice and a little dot 1+ (another hybrid tube amp). - the stock tubes on the dark voice are pretty meh. Definitely try them and then swap them out and you will notice a big difference. The tubes the DV uses are pretty common/cheap. - you can’t say the dark voice puts out less power than the vali. They’re different. At lower impedance the vali puts out more power. At higher impedance the DV puts out more power. Which is why high impedance cans like the hd600/650 sound better with the DV. And lower impedance cans like hifiman planars or Grados sound better with the vali or little dot 1+. And why planars sound bad on full Tube amps. Also the DV is not transformerless. Its output transformerless or OTL.

[@stephenstrang590]

electronical

[@samuellee5127]

Z Reviews, Will you by any chance review the Elac Uni Fi B5 Bookshelfs? I am currently in the market for either the Elacs Uni Fi B5 or the JBL 530 and would like to know your thoughts.

[@ZReviews]

I have them pre-ordered Im just waiting for them to ship.

[@samuellee5127]

+Z Reviews Thanks for the quick reply. I will eagerly await your thoughts and comparison between the Jbl 530 and the Elacs Uni fi B5.

[@samuellee5127]

Hey Z, is there an estimate on when you will receive the elacs?

[@GeorgeTJ]

Thanks for your honesty

[@unknownfoopa]

i have a pair of ATH R70X's so i was wondering if a magni 2 would be enough for those. don't feel like spending too much on audio that could go to something better like games or rent.

[@ZReviews]

If you can get the uber version it has a bit more power.

[@unknownfoopa]

would you prefer the uber or the Bravo Audio Ocean?

[@unknownfoopa]

k ty