I have a 2012 MacBook Air and Sony MDR-V6 headphones. I just plug my MacBook headphones into the two RCA connectors on the back of this T2 amp. At the same time I ordered GE 5654 tubes and installed them after receiving the amplifier. I haven't heard with the tubes that come with the amp. I immediately found the sound to be softer or warmer compared to using headphones straight from the MacBook. I found the notes less sharp, tiring my ears. It works for the type of music I listen to - acoustic guitar, classical, strings, vocals. I'm an aspiring audiophile so I won't delve into musical descriptions. Be sure to warm up the amp for about 30 minutes before attempting to listen. I noticed a difference in the character of the sound. To my knowledge, lamps require more hours of use (some say 70 to 80, some say less) before they reach their full potential. If you're looking for something new and have $40 (+$17 for the kit) give this little amp a try. I can't say which is better, the preamp or the amp. Your situation and existing components (amplifiers, DACs) will dictate this. I wonder what an external linear power supply can do for something like this. It uses a 12V, 1.5A outlet.
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