Electrical Disclaimer Further Information
Here's a great (and cost-effective) way to get into the head-fi world (or to gift to a friend/relative who needs to hear what good gear can sound like).
This bundle includes that OG Burson Audio Playmate headphone amp (with DAC) and a pair of great-sounding Gold Planar GL2000 planar magnetic headphones.
About the headphones:
The Gold Planar GL2000 was introduced to the world through Massdrop (now Drop), but is now more widely available - although they seem to be absent from the retail channel in Australia.
From the original listing:
Pushing the boundaries of planar magnetic design, Gold Planar is going big in the GL2000: a flagship pair of headphones with never-before-seen drivers. Raising the bar head and shoulders over many other planar magnetic drivers, Gold Planar increased the surface area and magnet strength of the drivers on the GL2000 to optimize airflow and responsiveness. Available here with a double magnetic circuit, the GL2000 is made from aerospace-grade aluminum for durability without extra weight. For optimal comfort and minimal listening fatigue, it features a leather headband and ear cushions, as well as an open-back design. Tuned for reference listening, the GL2000 comes with a 6N OCC silver-plated cable to ensure excellent signal transmission.
If you're checking reviews, be sure to look for the version with double magnets (also referred to as double magnetic circuit, dual magnets, double-sided magnets). There was also a simpler (and lower price) version with single magnets and, needless to say, it's not as good.
Included in the sale:
the headphones
silver plated cable terminated in 4.4mm balanced connector
silver plated cable terminated in 3.5mm connector (plus 6.35mm plug-in adaptor) - this was a USD100 option when I bought the headphones
small velvet bag for the cables
two pairs of pads: standard full-leather (very soft) and also a set of perforated leather + fabric pads (a bit less bright-sounding)
large Pelican-style case to fit everything in (see the photos).
Not included: headphone stand in the photo.
Everything here is in excellent (pretty-much as new) condition. It's fully functional - has operated faultlessly since day 1. Used exclusively indoors in a smoke-free household.
About the amp/DAC:
This is the original version of the Burson Audio Playmate - a high quality DAC (digital to analogue converter) and headphone amplifier.
Specs:
high-end ES9038Q2M DAC chip
full Class-A output (greatly minimises distortion)
power output up to 2W
very flat frequency response, extending to 35kHz
distortion only 0.0018%.
Inputs:
USB type C (front panel)
USB A on rear panel
optical TOSLINK
3.5mm mic input on front panel
Outputs:
6.35mm stereo headphone socket (front panel)
2 x RCA connectors on rear panel (when using as a Preamp)
Other information:
This is a serious head-amp/DAC. It features Burson's MCPS (maximum current power supply internal circuitry) to allow very high transients - it's a very dynamic device to listen to.
Form factor is identical to a 5.25 inch optical drive. If you want to (I have never done this), you can install this unit into a 5.25" drive bay in your PC - to give you an amazing game sound experience. When installed this way, it can be powered by standard PC 12V power connector. And the front panel mic input is for your headset's mic.
Burson is a pioneer of op-amp 'rolling' (swapping) to improve the overall sound signature. This device is fitted with one pair of Burson's V6 Vivid op-amps and one pair of V6 Classic. Together, these are valued at RRP = $342 (they are still current Burson products).
IR remote volume/mute control is included (was optional at time of purchase).
Included in the sale:
Playmate device including 4 x upgraded op-amps
factory-supplied mains power supply
IR remote control
cables as per photo
PC bracket for cable connection
original shipping box.
Astute observers will note that I previously offered these products separately - and I'm not averse to splitting if that's what takes your fancy. But as a bundle, I think this pairing represents exceptional value for money.
Happy to answer questions...
English (US)