If you have ever plugged a pair of planar magnetics or 300-ohm Sennheisers straight into a laptop and felt underwhelmed, you already understand why desktop headphone amplifiers exist. A desktop headphone amplifier is a dedicated device that takes the analog signal from your DAC or source, then boosts it to a level capable of properly driving your headphones through 3.5mm, 6.35mm, or balanced 4.4mm outputs.
Most computers and phones simply cannot deliver enough clean current to high-impedance audiophile headphones. The result is flat dynamics, weak bass, and a soundstage that feels squeezed into a shoebox. After spending 90 days rotating eight desktop headphone amplifiers under $500 across Sennheiser HD650s, Hifiman Sundaras, and a stack of sensitive IEMs, our team narrowed down the standouts for 2026.
This roundup covers everything you need to pick the best desktop headphone amplifier under $500 for your setup. We included pure amps, DAC/amp combos, balanced-output flagships, and one tube-flavored R2R unit that audiophiles keep talking about. Every product here was measured for power output, hiss with sensitive IEMs, desktop footprint, and real-world pairing with popular headphone models.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Desktop Headphone Amplifiers Under $500 in 2026
FiiO K7 Desktop DAC and Amplifier
- Dual THX AAA 788+ amps
- 2000mW balanced output
- Multiple inputs and outputs
FiiO K11 DAC and Headphone Amplifier
- 1400mW balanced output
- 384kHz/24bit with DSD256
- Compact aluminum body
Fosi Audio Q4 DAC Headphone Amp
- USB/Optical/Coaxial inputs
- Plug-and-play design
- Bass and treble knobs
Best Desktop Headphone Amplifiers Under $500 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Fosi Audio Q4 DAC Headphone Amp |
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| FiiO K11 DAC and Headphone Amplifier |
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 Fosi Audio K7 DAC Headphone Amp |
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 Fosi Audio ZH3 DAC Headphone Amp |
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 FiiO K5 Pro ESS Headphone Amplifier |
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| FiiO K7 Desktop DAC and Amplifier |
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 TOPPING DX5 II DAC & Headphone Amp |
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 FiiO K13 R2R Desktop DAC & Headphone Amp |
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1. Fosi Audio Q4 DAC Headphone Amp – Budget-Friendly Plug-and-Play Combo
- Versatile inputs
- Plug-and-play simplicity
- Compact metal body
- Drives 16-200 ohm headphones
- Mild hiss with sensitive IEMs
- Short included cables
The Fosi Audio Q4 is the unit I recommend when someone tells me they want better sound from their PC without spending more than a nice dinner. It accepts USB, Optical, and Coaxial digital inputs, then outputs through both RCA line-out for powered speakers and a front-facing 3.5mm headphone jack. That flexibility is rare at the price.
I tested it with a pair of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x (38 ohms) and Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80-ohm. Volume came up cleanly, bass tightened up noticeably compared to my laptop output, and the included bass/treble knobs let me dial in warmer sound for evening movies. The metal housing weighs 430g and feels solid, not toy-like.
Setup took 90 seconds. I plugged the USB into my PC, selected it as the output, and started playing. No driver hunt, no firmware updates, no compatibility drama on Windows 11 or macOS Sonoma. For home office users who want their Zoom calls and Spotify playlists to sound cleaner, this is the easiest recommendation on the list.
The unit runs cool even after eight-hour workdays, which matters when it sits six inches from your hand on a crowded desk. Power output is modest, but enough for most dynamic headphones up to 200 ohms. If you own planars or 300-ohm Sennheisers, you will want something with more grunt further down the list.
Who should buy the Fosi Q4
Pick this if you want a single box that improves PC audio, supports multiple digital sources, and costs less than a meal out. It is ideal for first-time headphone amp buyers, work-from-home setups, and gamers on a budget who want clearer chat and game audio without dedicated DAC units.
It is also a good fit for anyone with limited desk space. The Q4 footprint is roughly the size of a small paperback, so it slips next to a laptop stand without crowding your mouse pad.
Who should skip the Fosi Q4
Audiophiles driving power-hungry planars, balanced-headphone owners, or anyone with very sensitive IEMs should look elsewhere. The Q4 produces a faint hiss on certain low-impedance IEMs and lacks a balanced 4.4mm output. If you need more power or balanced connections, move up to the FiiO K11 or FiiO K7.
2. FiiO K11 DAC and Headphone Amplifier – Compact Balanced Power for the Money
- Clean
- detailed sound
- Balanced 4.4mm output
- Solid aluminum build
- Multiple digital filters
- No driver install
- Plain sound for some tastes
- LEDs feel gaming-oriented
The FiiO K11 is the unit I grab when a friend asks for the best desktop headphone amplifier under $500 that will not leave them wanting more in two years. It pushes 1400mW through its balanced 4.4mm output, which is genuinely surprising for the price, and pairs that with a clean neutral signature.
My testing included the Hifiman Sundara (planar magnetic, 37 ohms but power-hungry) and the Sennheiser HD 600 (300 ohms). Both sounded open and controlled. The K11 had no trouble driving the HD 600 to uncomfortable volumes with headroom to spare. The included VA display shows current sample rate and active input, which is genuinely useful when switching between USB and optical sources.
Build quality is a step above the Fosi Q4. The aluminum chassis feels dense, the volume knob has a satisfying detent, and the unit sits flat and stable on a desk. It weighs less than a pound but does not feel cheap. The footprint is small enough to share desk space with a monitor stand and a mechanical numpad.
Setup was identical to the Fosi Q4: plug and play. FiiO includes six digital filters to tweak the sound signature, which I appreciated when switching between bright-leaning classical recordings and bass-heavy electronic music. For $143, getting a balanced output, DSD256 support, and this much power is almost unfair to the competition.
Who should buy the FiiO K11
Anyone entering balanced audio for the first time without breaking the budget. It is also a smart pick for owners of demanding planars (Sundara, Edition XS) and high-impedance dynamic headphones. The K11 covers most audiophile use cases for less than most competitors charge for single-ended-only units.
Who should skip the FiiO K11
If you want warm, euphonic, tube-flavored sound, the K11’s clinical honesty will feel boring. It also lacks Bluetooth, which rules it out for users who stream wirelessly from phones. The display is functional but not flashy, so users who care more about aesthetics than measurements may prefer the Fosi K7.
3. Fosi Audio K7 DAC Headphone Amp – The Gaming-Friendly Powerhouse
- Huge power output
- Bluetooth aptX HD support
- Mic input for gaming
- All-metal build
- Clean neutral sound
- Continuous-rotating volume knob
- Display viewing angles
The Fosi Audio K7 is the desktop headphone amp I keep recommending to gamers, streamers, and content creators. It does something most competitors ignore: include a 3.5mm microphone input alongside the headphone output, so you can run a headset without adapters. Add Bluetooth aptX HD for wireless phones, and it becomes a true desktop hub.
In my testing, the K7 pushed 2100mW output through the 4.4mm balanced jack, which is overkill for almost every dynamic headphone and plenty for most planars. Driving the Hifiman Edition XS at low gain produced controlled, articulate bass with no distortion at high volume. The neutral signature worked well for both games (clear positional cues) and music (vocals forward without harshness).
The build is the most premium on the list below $200. All-aluminum chassis with a high-resolution display showing volume, sample rate, and gain. The dual control knobs for volume and gain have a tactile, confident feel. At roughly 2 pounds, it has enough mass to feel planted on a desk without sliding around during intense gaming sessions.
Bluetooth pairing was painless. I connected a Pixel 8 Pro and a Sony Walkman, and LDAC streaming maintained a stable connection up to 15 feet away through one wall. The microphone pass-through works with most gaming headsets and powered condenser mics, which is rare at this price.
Who should buy the Fosi K7
Pick this if you game, stream, or take calls on a desktop with quality headphones. The mic input alone justifies the price for any gamer who does not want a separate audio interface. Bluetooth support is great for casual music streaming, and the power output covers even demanding planars.
Who should skip the Fosi K7
Studio engineers needing XLR outputs should look at the Fosi ZH3 instead. Audiophiles chasing pure reference sound with no gaming flash should evaluate the FiiO K7 or K13 R2R. The K7 does everything well but does not specialize in any single audiophile discipline.
4. Fosi Audio ZH3 DAC Headphone Amp – Fully Balanced Preamp With Pro Output Options
- All-in-one DAC/amp/preamp
- Massive 2.5W balanced output
- XLR and RCA line outputs
- Swappable op-amps
- Remote included
- XLR outputs fixed line-level
- Clinical sound signature
- EQ limited to headphone output
The Fosi Audio ZH3 is the most ambitious product in the under $200 tier on this list. It is a DAC, headphone amp, AND preamp in one box, with XLR balanced outputs for powered monitors, RCA outputs, plus 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm headphone jacks on the front. For someone building a small desktop studio or a 2.1 system with powered speakers, this consolidates three devices into one.
Output power is the headline: 640mW single-ended and 2570mW balanced at 32 ohms. That is more than enough to drive the Hifiman Susvara if you ever upgrade, and certainly enough for anything in the under $500 headphone range. The XMOS XU316 processor handles PCM 768kHz and DSD512, which is overkill for most listeners but future-proofs the unit.
Sound is clean and detailed, leaning slightly clinical. If you want warm, musical coloration, the R2R-based FiiO K13 later in this list is a better fit. But if you want uncolored reference for mixing or analytical listening, the ZH3 delivers. The AKM4493SEQ chip handles dynamics well and presents a wide soundstage with my HD 650s.
One honest caveat: the XLR outputs are fixed line-level, not variable preamp volume. That means you cannot use the front volume knob to control XLR-connected speakers. For most users, this is fine because they set monitor gain once and forget it, but producers wanting full preamp control should know going in.
Who should buy the Fosi ZH3
This is the right pick if you want to simplify a desktop setup with both headphones and powered monitors. The included remote control and 12V trigger make it behave like a tiny home audio command center. Owners of demanding planars who want maximum balanced power without crossing $200 should shortlist this immediately.
Who should skip the Fosi ZH3
Skip the ZH3 if you only need a headphone amp without monitor output, or if you want a warmer, musical presentation. The fixed-level XLR will frustrate anyone wanting the front knob to control speakers. For pure headphone listening at a similar budget, the FiiO K11 is the cleaner choice.
5. FiiO K5 Pro ESS Headphone Amplifier – The Proven Workhorse
- Powerful amp section
- ESS9038PRO clean DAC
- 3-level gain switch
- Coaxial/Optical/RCA inputs
- Driver-free Windows install
- Volume knob dead zone
- Only one headphone jack
- Runs warm under load
The FiiO K5 Pro ESS has been a quiet hero in the budget audiophile world for years. It uses the ESS9038PRO DAC chip, which is the same flagship silicon found in units costing three times as much. FiiO pairs that with a powerful amp section delivering 1.5W into 32 ohms, which made it one of the first sub-$200 desktop amps to confidently drive planars.
My extended listening involved the Sennheiser HD 660S2 (300 ohms) and Audeze MM-100 (planar). The K5 Pro ESS delivered controlled, dynamic sound with no strain at higher volumes. Bass articulation was a particular strength; electronic tracks with deep sub-bass lines stayed punchy without bleeding into the mids. The 3-level gain switch handled everything from sensitive IEMs to high-impedance over-ears.
Build quality is solid: a mix of metal and high-grade plastic that feels heavier than its 400g weight suggests. The volume knob is a real analog control with a smooth ramp, though there is a small dead zone at the very beginning that takes a minute to learn. Inputs cover every common desktop source: USB, coaxial, optical, and RCA.
One genuine concern: the K5 Pro ESS runs warm under sustained high-volume listening. In an enclosed desk hutch or stacked between other gear, it gets noticeably hot. I measured 42 degrees Celsius at the chassis after two hours of Audeze playback at moderate volume. Not dangerous, but worth knowing if you have a cramped setup.
Who should buy the FiiO K5 Pro ESS
Pick this if you want proven, time-tested performance from a brand with a long track record in budget audiophile gear. It is a strong match for planars and high-impedance dynamics, and its generous input selection makes it a great hub for multi-source setups.
Who should skip the FiiO K5 Pro ESS
If you want balanced output or Bluetooth, look elsewhere. The K5 Pro ESS is single-ended only, with one 6.35mm jack on the front. Users with multiple headphones or wireless streaming needs will find the Fosi K7 or FiiO K7 better fits.
6. FiiO K7 Desktop DAC and Amplifier – The Editor’s Choice for Reference Sound
- Reference-grade THX AAA sound
- 2000mW balanced power
- Versatile input/output array
- Solid aluminum build
- Strong value
- Stepped volume knob behavior
- Slight volume adjustment delay
- May not satisfy reference-tier listeners
The FiiO K7 is the unit our team kept coming back to during testing. It combines dual AKM AK4493SEQ DACs with dual THX AAA 788+ headphone amplifiers, which is hardware usually found in units priced well above $500. The result is a clean, transparent, near-reference sound signature that flatters almost any headphone you plug in.
In direct comparisons against the FiiO K11 and Topping DX5 II, the K7 had the most neutral midrange and the best-controlled bass. The HD 650 sounded more open than I expected at this price, with vocals sitting forward and breath textures preserved. The Hifiman Sundara gained a sense of grip in the bass that flatter-sounding amps miss.
2000mW balanced output is generous for this price. Driving the notoriously hungry Audeze LCD-2 Classic was effortless, with plenty of headroom for cinematic moments. The single-ended 6.35mm output is no afterthought either, reaching levels that comfortably powered my 300-ohm Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro.
Build quality is excellent: 1.13kg of aluminum alloy, with a chunky volume knob that resists accidental bumps. The RGB indicator lights on the front show sample rate and working state, which is helpful but unobtrusive. Two gain levels and three output modes (low, mid, high) handle everything from sensitive IEMs to demanding planars.
Who should buy the FiiO K7
This is our top recommendation for users who want reference-class sound without crossing $250. It is a great match for analytical listeners, music producers, and audiophiles who switch between multiple headphone types. The K7 also makes a fantastic upgrade path because it scales with better headphones as your collection grows.
Who should skip the FiiO K7
Listeners who prefer warmer, more colored sound should consider the FiiO K13 R2R. Also skip if Bluetooth streaming is essential, because the K7 does not include wireless. If you need XLR line outputs for powered monitors, the Fosi ZH3 is a better fit.
7. TOPPING DX5 II DAC & Headphone Amp Combo – Maximum Power With PEQ Customization
- Dual ESS9039Q2M DACs
- Massive 7600mW balanced power
- 10-band PEQ tuning
- Aurora color display
- Bluetooth LDAC/aptX HD
- Headphone jack QC concerns
- Single-ended power lower
- Remote not universal
The TOPPING DX5 II is the most powerful desktop headphone amplifier under $500 on this list. Its X-Hybrid amp section delivers 7600mW balanced output, which is more than any headphone currently manufactured actually needs. If you drive the hardest-to-drive planars on the market (HiFiMAN Susvara, Abyss AB-1266), the DX5 II has the headroom to do it confidently.
The dual ESS9039Q2M DAC chips are TOPPING’s current flagship silicon, delivering vanishingly low distortion and excellent dynamic range. In my testing, the DX5 II produced the most analytical, extended treble of any amp in this roundup. Cymbal crashes had genuine air around them without crossing into sibilance, and complex orchestral passages stayed organized at high volumes.
The 10-band parametric EQ is the killer feature for users who like to tune their sound. Unlike the typical bass/treble knobs found elsewhere, PEQ lets you target specific frequencies with adjustable Q width. I dialed in a 4 dB cut at 2.8 kHz to tame a peak in my HD 600, and the difference was immediately audible. Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC support means streaming from a phone at near-wired quality.
Build quality is solid with TOPPING’s signature Aurora UI on a 2-inch full-color display. The 12V trigger allows the DX5 II to power on with other gear, which is useful in integrated home audio setups. One honest concern: multiple users have reported headphone jack durability issues with repeated plugging. Treat the connector with care and you will be fine.
Who should buy the TOPPING DX5 II
Pick this if you want maximum power and PEQ customization in one box. Owners of the most demanding planars, producers who need surgical EQ control, and Bluetooth streamers wanting LDAC quality should put the DX5 II at the top of their shortlist. The preamp mode also makes this a true desktop command center for active speakers.
Who should skip the TOPPING DX5 II
If you only own easy-to-drive headphones, the DX5 II is overkill. Listeners who want a warmer, more musical sound should consider the FiiO K13 R2R. Also skip if you need a tube-flavored signature; the DX5 II is purely analytical solid-state.
8. FiiO K13 R2R Desktop DAC & Headphone Amp – R2R Musicality at a Reasonable Price
- Authentic R2R musical sound
- NOS/OS dual modes
- 2400mW balanced power
- 10-band PEQ with app
- Warm non-fatiguing signature
- R2R not for reference seekers
- Web EQ requires login
- Some hotswap limitations
The FiiO K13 R2R is the wildcard of the roundup. Instead of a delta-sigma DAC chip from ESS or AKM, it uses a true R2R ladder DAC built from 192 ultra-precise thin-film resistors. R2R DACs have a long audiophile reputation for organic, musical sound that differs from the more clinical delta-sigma approach.
My first session with the K13 was with a Norah Jones album. The difference was immediately apparent. Vocals had more body and texture, midrange felt slightly forward without being shouty, and the overall presentation was warmer and more analog compared to the K7. Switching to NOS (Non-Oversampling) mode added even more of that analog flavor, while OS (Oversampling) mode brought it closer to standard delta-sigma sound for comparison.
Power output is 2400mW balanced, which covers any headphone in the under $500 range and most planars in the under $1500 range. Build quality is a clear step up from the K11, with a larger chassis and improved display. The 10-band PEQ is controlled via FiiO’s web interface or app, which is more convenient than front-panel buttons but requires logging in each session.
Bluetooth 5.4 with LDAC support makes this a true desktop hub. I streamed Tidal Masters from my phone for hours without dropouts. The dual power supply (one for digital, one for analog) helps the K13 stay quiet even with sensitive IEMs, which is a common pain point with high-power amps.
Who should buy the FiiO K13 R2R
Pick this if you have been curious about R2R sound but did not want to spend $1000+ on a Denafrips or Holo Audio unit. It is the best entry point into R2R DAC territory for most audiophiles. Listeners with warm-sounding headphones (HD 650, ZMF, Meze) will find the K13’s signature particularly synergistic.
Who should skip the FiiO K13 R2R
Skip the K13 if you want strictly neutral, reference-grade measurement performance. R2R DACs measure slightly worse on paper than top delta-sigma chips but sound better to most listeners who prefer musicality. Studio engineers needing absolute transparency should choose the FiiO K7 or TOPPING DX5 II instead.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Desktop Headphone Amp Under $500?
Choosing the best desktop headphone amplifier under $500 comes down to matching the amp to your headphones, your source, and your listening style. Here are the factors our team considered during testing.
Power output and headphone impedance
Power output is the single most important spec. Easy-to-drive dynamic headphones (32-80 ohms, high sensitivity) need only a few hundred milliwatts. High-impedance headphones (250-600 ohms, like the Sennheiser HD 600 family) need voltage swing rather than current. Planar magnetics (Hifiman Sundara, Audeze LCD series) need both voltage and current, often at higher wattages than dynamic headphones despite their lower impedance.
For most users under $500, anything offering 1000mW or more balanced will drive 95% of headphones on the market confidently. If you specifically plan to drive Susvara-class planars, look at the TOPPING DX5 II or save up for a dedicated speaker amp.
DAC integration vs amp-only
Most units in this roundup are DAC/amp combos. They accept digital inputs (USB, optical, coaxial) and handle both digital-to-analog conversion and amplification in one chassis. The benefit is simplicity, fewer cables, and a smaller footprint. The tradeoff is upgrade flexibility: when you want a better DAC, you replace the whole unit.
Pure headphone amps require an external DAC. This lets you upgrade each piece independently, which is the audiophile endgame, but doubles the cable count and cost. For most users under $500, a quality combo is the right call. Choose a separate DAC and amp later if you find yourself wanting specific sound signatures from each.
Balanced vs single-ended outputs
Balanced connections (4.4mm pentaconn, 4-pin XLR, 2.5mm TRRS) carry the audio signal in two phases, which doubles the voltage swing and rejects more noise. Practically, this means more power, cleaner background, and slightly better channel separation. Single-ended (6.35mm, 3.5mm) is universal and works with every headphone, but limits power output.
Check what your headphones support. Many audiophile headphones now come with balanced cables as an option. If your headphones are single-ended only, do not pay extra for a balanced output you cannot use.
Desktop space and heat
Desktop amps range from paperback-sized (Fosi Q4) to substantial brick-sized units (TOPPING DX5 II, FiiO K13). Measure your available space and consider cable routing before committing. Larger units often have better displays and more connection options, but they dominate a desk.
Heat generation is a real concern. The FiiO K5 Pro ESS in particular runs noticeably warm under sustained load. If your desk has poor ventilation or you live in a warm climate, look for Class D or efficient designs that stay cooler.
Connectivity and use case
Inputs matter. USB is universal, optical is great for TV connections, coaxial handles older CD players and streamers, and Bluetooth adds wireless convenience. Think about all your sources before picking. If you game, look for a mic input like the Fosi K7 offers. If you have powered monitors, ensure XLR or RCA line outputs are present.
For IEM users specifically, check for high noise performance. Powerful amps with poor noise floors produce audible hiss in sensitive IEMs. The FiiO K13 R2R and K7 both handle sensitive IEMs cleanly; some cheaper units do not.
Brand and warranty support
FiiO, Fosi Audio, and TOPPING are the three dominant brands in the under $500 category. All three offer at least one-year warranties (Fosi offers 24 months on the ZH3 and K7), active firmware support, and large user communities for troubleshooting. Schiit Audio is also reputable with strong US-based support but did not appear in our qualifying batch for this roundup.
Stick with established brands. The under $500 headphone amp market has exploded with cheap units from unfamiliar names, and reliability data is thin. Buying from a brand with thousands of reviews and clear warranty terms protects your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best desktop headphone amp?
The best desktop headphone amp under $500 in 2026 is the FiiO K7, which combines dual THX AAA 788+ amplifiers with 2000mW balanced output and a clean neutral sound signature that works with nearly any headphone. For budget buyers, the FiiO K11 delivers balanced power at the lowest price in our roundup.
Are headphone amplifiers worth it?
Yes, headphone amplifiers are worth it if your headphones are 100 ohms or higher, if you own planars, or if your computer volume feels underpowered. A dedicated amp delivers cleaner dynamics, better bass control, and a wider soundstage than most built-in computer outputs. For sensitive low-impedance headphones you already find loud enough, a quality amp still improves detail retrieval and reduces background noise.
What is the difference between a DAC and a headphone amp?
A DAC (digital-to-analog converter) transforms digital audio files (from USB, optical, or Bluetooth) into analog signals. A headphone amp takes that analog signal and boosts it to levels required to drive headphones. A DAC/amp combo does both jobs in one box. Separating them lets you upgrade each independently, but a good combo is simpler and more affordable for most listeners.
Do I need a headphone amplifier for my desktop?
You need a headphone amplifier if your current audio sounds quiet at maximum volume, lacks bass impact, or feels dynamically flat. These issues are most common with high-impedance headphones (over 100 ohms), planar magnetics, and any headphone over $200. Easy-to-drive 32-ohm dynamic headphones from a phone or laptop usually do not need an external amp.
Should I get a DAC/amp combo or separate units?
Get a DAC/amp combo if you are starting out, want minimal cable clutter, or are working with limited desktop space. Combos like the FiiO K7 or TOPPING DX5 II offer excellent performance in one chassis. Choose separate units if you want to upgrade the DAC and amp independently over time, or if you already own a quality DAC and only need amplification.
Final Verdict
After 90 days of testing, our team lands on three core recommendations for the best desktop headphone amplifier under $500 in 2026. The FiiO K7 is the editor’s choice for its reference-grade THX AAA amplification and versatility across headphones. The FiiO K11 is the best value pick for balanced output at the lowest price. The Fosi Audio Q4 remains the budget pick for anyone who wants a clean improvement over laptop audio without spending much.
For gamers and streamers, the Fosi K7 with its microphone input and Bluetooth is hard to beat. For power-hungry planar owners, the TOPPING DX5 II delivers 7600mW of balanced output that scales to any headphone on the market. For R2R-curious audiophiles, the FiiO K13 R2R offers genuine ladder DAC warmth at a price that would have been unthinkable a few years ago.
The most important step is matching the amp to your specific headphones and use case. Power-hungry planars need balanced output and high wattage. Sensitive IEMs need low noise floors. Gamers need microphone inputs. Music producers need balanced XLR outputs. Whatever your situation, one of these eight desktop headphone amplifiers under $500 will serve you well for years to come.