Lee2000Keep in mind SMSL says they are designed for a maximum of 300ohms, so anything above that and we don't know exactly how the output couples. In general, it would really depend on the headphone sensitivity. If they are very efficient, say 103db/1mw (note: milliwatt, not Volt), the amp will do ok. Inefficient, say 92db/1mw, the amp will struggle with very little headroom.
Lee2000Do you know the sensitivity of the headphones?
WIthout knowing that, @Keth 's recommendation for the Magni 3 is an easy inexpensive recommendation as it will supply 230mw into 600 ohms. That's enough power for sure even for an insensitive headphone. It also has a relatively low output impedance so it will also match well with lower impedance headphones.
I am not sure if the O2, could handle everything at 600ohms. But it all also depends on your listening levels.
CapnCookI actually opted for the new Liquid Spark, fingers crossed I made the right choice.
If all else fails he can spring for a BasX A-100 at $230, which will power any headphone to the point of a house fire and permanent hearing loss.
KethThe Liquid Spark is a tempting splurge! Thanks pointing it out.
FWIW, I have Emotiva in my home theater, and I can vouch for their excellent quality and superb value. I'm considering the A-100 myself.
CapnCookI just don't need it, at least not yet. If I spring for Argons, or some such then I'll consider it, but currently I use powered monitors, and efficient headphones all under 80 ohms.
CapnCookI bought the Magni 3 and matching DAC. I couldn't find these items at any online store and bought directly from site. I think I made a wise choice.
Lee2000The Beyers are 96db/v, not very (very) sensitive. So its a good thing you opted for the power handling capability of the Magni 3. For $100, its a great purchase. The Sanskrit may not have had the headroom for your headphones.
I also think you have a great launching point for if and when you decide to upgrade. You'll have a much more common baseline in the audiophile community having the Magni over the Sanskrit for future research.
Congratulations. I am sure you'll enjoy your purchase.
CapnCookSo my Liquid Spark is hooked up to my Grace SDAC as of this morning. While I've not given it the 100 hours of burn in they recommend, it sounds amazing. Excellent separation and low end, definitely a touch warmer than the Magni 3, not in a major way but it just feels "smooth". The volume knob has enough resistance that it feels satisfying to turn it. My Fidelio X2's are getting uncomfortable at around 10 on the dial, and the imbalance disappears amazingly low on the dial. It's lowest position is at 7.