Mainline with High Impedance Headphones

[ScottAstroNut]

I am currently using a S.E.X. 3.0 with 600 ohm Beyerdynamic DT880 headphones, and the S.E.X. has no problem driving these cans. However,  I notice that the volume has to be turned up pretty high compared to my lower impedance headphones, such as my 32 ohm Grados. I am considering upgrading to a Mainline but am concerned about its ability to drive headphones like my DT880's given its lower power rating. Might someone be able to comment on this situation? Thanks!

 

[Paul Birkeland]

However,  I notice that the volume has to be turned up pretty high compared to my lower impedance headphones, such as my 32 ohm Grados.

This may have a lot more to do with gain rather than available power. 

I am considering upgrading to a Mainline but am concerned about its ability to drive headphones like my DT880's given its lower power rating. Might someone be able to comment on this situation?

How much source voltage do you have available?  If you have a DAC with 2V of output, you're going to be in good shape with a Mainline.  If you're using an 1/8 TRS to RCA cable plugged into your phone, then the Mainline will appear to not work all that well with the 600 ohm DT880s. 

 

[ScottAstroNut]

Thanks, Paul, for the quick response. Sounds like I will be OK with the Beyer DT8880's on the Mainline. I am using pretty robust sources, so should be fine, I think.

I can feel the craving for yet another Bottlehead build coming on! (These kits are addictive!)