Electronics

SCHIIT Magni Heresy (2019)

Pure Power or Missing Features?

⚑️ Quick Verdict - SCHIIT Magni Heresy (2019)

  • Best For: Audio enthusiasts, headphone users, budget-conscious audiophiles.
  • Strengths: High power output, low distortion, neutral sound.
  • Drawbacks: Limited connectivity, simple aesthetics.
  • Verdict: Powerful, clean headphone amplifier.

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons Explained

Aspect Pros Cons
Sound Quality Users praise its clean, transparent sound reproduction, noting it is powerful enough to drive demanding headphones and has an excellent low noise floor. Some users find its sound signature to be too analytical or clinical, stating it's not ideal for those seeking warmth or coloration.
Build Quality It features a solid metal chassis with a compact and durable design, offering a simple, functional layout. The basic, industrial aesthetic may not appeal to all users, and some report the volume knob can feel slightly loose on certain units.
Features/Connectivity The single-ended RCA inputs and headphone output provide a straightforward and effective setup, with sufficient gain for most headphones. It lacks balanced inputs/outputs and pre-out functionality, and only offers two fixed gain settings.
Value Users consistently highlight its exceptional performance for its price point, often recommending it as a budget audiophile staple. Some may prefer more advanced features or a more premium aesthetic, which would typically come at a higher cost.

πŸ”§ What’s Included? & Why It Matters

Item Why It Matters
SCHIIT Magni Heresy (2019) Unit This is the core headphone amplifier that provides clean power to headphones.
External Wall Wart Power Supply Supplies the necessary power to the amplifier, ensuring stable operation and optimal audio performance.

πŸ’° Is It Worth It? – Value & Cost Efficiency

Aspect Positive Negative
Performance vs. Price Users consistently report that the Heresy delivers audio quality comparable to much more expensive amplifiers, making it a strong value proposition. For users seeking advanced features like balanced outputs or multiple gain settings, the simplicity of the Heresy might mean additional investments in other gear are needed.
Longevity & Reliability The solid-state design and robust build suggest long-term durability and consistent performance. Many users report years of trouble-free operation. As with any electronic device, individual unit failures can occur, though reports of widespread issues are uncommon.
Upgrade Path It serves as an excellent entry point into dedicated headphone amplification and can drive a wide range of headphones, delaying the need for an upgrade. Those who later seek to drive extremely power-hungry headphones or wish for more sophisticated DAC/amp combinations might find the Heresy's capabilities eventually limiting.

πŸ” Schiit Comparison – How This Version Improves Over Previous Models

Aspect Schiit Magni 3+ SCHIIT Magni Heresy (2019)
Topology Discrete, Class A/B Fully Op-Amp-based, Class A/B
Distortion Very low, but slightly higher than Heresy. Extremely low THD+N (often cited as a key advantage).
Sound Signature Neutral with a hint of warmth. Extremely neutral, transparent, and uncolored.
Power Output (into 32 ohms) Around 2.4W Around 2.4W

βš”οΈ Alternatives vs SCHIIT Magni Heresy (2019)

Aspect JDS Labs Atom Amp+ Topping L30 II SCHIIT Magni Heresy (2019)
Sound Signature Neutral, clean Neutral, clean Extremely neutral, transparent
Build Quality Plastic chassis, lightweight Aluminum chassis, compact Solid metal chassis, robust
Power Output (into 32 ohms) Around 1W Around 2.4W Around 2.4W
Connectivity/Features RCA in, 6.35mm out, optional pre-out on some versions. RCA in, 6.35mm out, pre-out functionality. RCA in, 6.35mm out.
Value Proposition Excellent value for its performance, very clean. Strong measurements, good power, modern features. Renowned for its low distortion and power for the price, robust build.

πŸ’‘ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

  • Does the Magni Heresy run hot? The Magni Heresy runs warm to the touch during operation, which is normal for a Class AB amplifier. It typically does not get excessively hot under normal use.
  • Can the Magni Heresy drive high-impedance headphones? Yes, the Magni Heresy is capable of driving high-impedance headphones, such as those with 300 or 600 ohms, with sufficient power and headroom.
  • Is the Magni Heresy compatible with active speakers? No, the Magni Heresy is a dedicated headphone amplifier and does not have a pre-out function to connect directly to active speakers. It is designed solely to power headphones.

πŸ‘ Positive Reviews - What Users Love

  • This amplifier offers incredible clarity and power for its size and price. My headphones sound so much more dynamic.
  • I'm truly impressed by how transparent and uncolored the sound is. It lets my DAC and headphones shine.
  • It's a small but mighty amp. Drives everything I throw at it, from planar magnetics to high-impedance dynamics, without breaking a sweat.
  • The build quality feels solid and premium, especially for its cost. It's a no-frills design that just works.
  • Finally, an amplifier that doesn't add its own 'flavor' to the sound. Pure, clean audio.

πŸ‘Ž Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better

  • While the sound is clean, I wish it had a bit more warmth or character. It's almost too analytical for my preferences.
  • The lack of a pre-out means I can't easily integrate it with my active speakers, which is a bit inconvenient.
  • The design is very basic and industrial. It doesn't really stand out visually on my desk.
  • I found the volume knob to be a little loose compared to other amps I've used, though it functions fine.
  • It's great for headphones, but I was hoping for more versatility, like balanced inputs or multiple gain settings.

πŸ“‹ Key Details & Specifications

Aspect Detail
Type Solid State Headphone Amplifier
Topology Op-Amp based (OPA1656), current feedback
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz, -0.1db; 2Hz-700kHz, -3dB
Maximum Power Output (RMS) 32 ohms: 2.4W per channel; 50 ohms: 1.6W per channel; 300 ohms: 410mW per channel; 600 ohms: 205mW per channel
THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise) Less than 0.0003% at 1V RMS into 32 ohms
SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) >109dB A-weighted
Crosstalk -75dB, 20Hz-20kHz
Output Impedance Less than 0.2 ohms
Gain 2 (6dB) or 8 (18dB), switchable
Inputs RCA L/R stereo
Outputs 6.35mm (1/4") TRS headphone jack
Power Supply External 24VAC, 600mA wall wart
Dimensions 5 x 3.5 x 1.25 inches (12.7 x 8.9 x 3.2 cm)
Weight 1 lb (0.45 kg)

πŸ”š Summary – Is This the Right Choice for You?

  • The SCHIIT Magni Heresy (2019) stands out as a high-performance, budget-friendly headphone amplifier. It delivers exceptionally clean, transparent, and powerful audio, making it suitable for driving a wide range of headphones, including demanding high-impedance or planar magnetic models.
  • While its sound signature is neutral, which might not appeal to those seeking coloration, it ensures that the audio signal remains unadulterated.
  • Its robust metal build promises durability, though its utilitarian aesthetic and limited connectivity (no balanced I/O or pre-out) might be considerations for some users.
  • For anyone seeking a powerful, low-distortion amplifier that prioritizes sonic accuracy over extraneous features, the Magni Heresy represents an excellent investment and a strong foundation for a dedicated headphone audio setup.

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