Review on Enhanced Resolution Preamplifier - Micca OriGen G2 by Bethany Neal

I wanted to go from a bulky receiver that I no longer used for anything other than headphones to a dedicated headphone amp. I tried Schiit Modi and Magni v1 first, but I didn't like some things about them. Unfortunately due to being on a budget I decided to go with a product that wasn't made in America and went for it. However, like many knives, this appears to be a quality product; one of those rare jewels of Asia that is well built. The processing is solid, the processing is clean, the device works perfectly. I haven't tried anything other than headphone jacks, volume controls, USB port, gain switch, output switch and SPDIF out (just to test functionality) but everything has been tested so far. I leave it plugged in via USB and it's nice not having to plug it into the wall. I was surprised at how well this thing works since it's only USB powered. The reason I wanted something like this was to reduce heat build up and also provide a large volume wheel without taking up a lot of desk space. The wheel isn't as big as a receiver, but it's relatively large in terms of dedicated headphone amps. I would go for JDSLABS The Element if I could afford it due to the massive volume control, but I'm actually quite happy with the Micca Origen G2. The lights (orange) correctly read the correct sample rate coming from the computer (it seems to stay set to what you set for Windows whether or not you set anything else in the media player - which I think is the terrible UX is sound control error in windows). It also has an indicator light that lets you know the device is powered on (green) as well as another that uniquely responds to audio depending on the channel(s) the audio is being output on. This indicator turns blue for the left channel, red for the right channel, and purple for both channels. The strength of the light depends on how loud the sound enters the headphones. The green light I mentioned turns red when you first turn on the device and wait for it to initialize, just like a receiver but much faster. It takes about a second for the light to change from red to green while it takes 3-4 seconds for the receiver to be ready to emit a signal. The light is directed upwards so it cannot hit your face. when you're trying to sleep, and even if they bump into you, I don't think they're blindingly and annoyingly powerful. The device does not get too hot, which is very pleasant. any issues on that front and it's hard to compare it to other things without comparing it side by side. Also, sound is subjective so it doesn't really matter what I say, but I can at least say if it helps anyone I haven't noticed any coloration from the unit and yes there can be some really high volumes. to the point where you don't want to hear it that loud for a long time because it's annoying and probably contributing to damaging your hearing. Overall I'm very happy with this purchase and it's nice to know that even when I travel I can easily pack it in my luggage or carry-on and always have something with me that can be paired with high-powered or low-impedance headphones.