8 best portable headphone amplifiers

Portable headphone amplifiers, also known as headphone amps or headphone amplifiers, are audio devices designed to enhance the quality and volume of sound delivered to headphones or earphones. These devices are particularly popular among audiophiles, musicians, and individuals who seek higher audio fidelity and power output from their portable audio sources like smartphones, laptops, or portable music players.

Here are some key points about portable headphone amplifiers:

  1. Purpose: Portable headphone amplifiers are used to improve the audio quality and provide more power to drive high-impedance or low-sensitivity headphones. They can make a significant difference in sound clarity, detail, and dynamics.

  2. Compatibility: Most portable headphone amplifiers are designed to work with a wide range of headphones, from in-ear monitors to over-ear, high-impedance models. They usually feature standard audio input connections like 3.5mm or 1/4-inch jacks.

  3. Audio Sources: They can be used with various audio sources, including smartphones, digital audio players (DAPs), laptops, and desktop computers. Some models may also have digital inputs like USB or optical.

  4. Battery-Powered: Portable headphone amplifiers are typically battery-powered or USB rechargeable, making them convenient for on-the-go use.They can extend the playback time of your mobile devices.

  5. Amplification: These devices amplify the audio signal from the source, providing higher voltage and current to drive headphones effectively. This results in better sound quality and increased volume capability.

  6. Gain Control: Many portable headphone amplifiers have gain control knobs or switches that allow users to adjust the amplification level. This is especially useful for matching the amp's output to the specific headphones being used.

  7. Size and Portability: As the name suggests, these amplifiers are designed to be compact and easy to carry. They often feature a pocket-sized or small form factor for portability.

  8. Price Range: Portable headphone amplifiers come in a wide price range, from budget-friendly options to high-end audiophile models. The price often correlates with the build quality, features, and audio performance.

  9. Audio Quality: A good portable headphone amplifier should provide clean, transparent amplification without introducing distortion or noise. Some models may include features like balanced audio outputs for even better sound quality.

  10. Brand and Models: Several reputable audio equipment manufacturers produce portable headphone amplifiers, including Fiio, AudioQuest, Sony, Schiit, and many others. Each brand may offer various models catering to different budgets and requirements.

  11. Accessories: Some headphone amplifiers come with additional features such as EQ controls, bass boost, or digital-to-analog converters (DACs) to further enhance the audio experience.

In summary, portable headphone amplifiers are audio accessories designed to improve the sound quality and power output of headphones or earphones when used with portable audio sources. They are available in various sizes, price ranges, and with different features, catering to the diverse needs of audio enthusiasts and professionals.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best portable headphone amplifiers on the market
  

FiiO A3 Portable Headphone Amplifier (Black)

FiiO

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FiiO A3 Portable Headphone Amplifier (Black)

  • Suitable for headphones ranging from 16 to 150 Ohms. Gain switch for matching output to headphone power needs.
  • Superior sound quality through expertly selected components and design, utilizing OPA1642 preamp and AD8397 amp section.
  • Fully discrete bass boost circuit increases output by 3.5dB at 60Hz, with bypass when off.
  • Handsome all aluminum body and chassis is sturdy and shielding against EM interference.
  • 1400mAh internal battery powers for up to 16 hours of use.

User questions & answers

Question: does the usb connect through a pc to operate
Answer: Hi, thank you for your inquiry. The USB is for charging.You use the 1/8" stereo jacks to operate.Visit our store - TheCameraBox - The Best Electronics Source with a Warranty on all Items!
Question: can it be hook up to a stereo system
Answer: Using the headphone out into a mini to 2 RCAs you could. Why? If your stereo doesn't have a good DAC, or your car has an AUX it would improve sound.
Question: Does it come with a audio cord for phones
Answer: When I got mine, the included cord was very short, about 1.5" long with right-angle 3.5mm plugs on both ends. I am not sure if this changed, since some of the earlier responses suggest the cord is longer. I found this to be too short for my needs and decided to buy a 6" 3.5mm cord separately.
Question: Can the battery be replaced
Answer: When the battery on mine failed, I bought an Anker PowerCore Fusion 5000 (on sale) for under $20 on Amazon. Plugged into the micro USB port on the amp, it effectively replaces the much smaller internal battery. It's not elegant but it works well.

FiiO A1 Portable Headphone Amplifier, Black

FiiO

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Black A1 from FiiO is a portable headphone amplifier with volume control, high-power and hi-fidelity output, and four EQ modes providing maximum flexibility. It can be used for smartphones, computers, tablets, iPods, and MP3 players to increase volume and deliver a more satisfying experience when listening to audio.

  • Same function as A1 Silver but in stunning Black Color
  • With higher power and hi-fidelity output than smartphones, the A1 satisfies your need for more sound quality and quantity
  • The A1's volume buttons are made of Alps microswitches for sensitive and reliable operation
  • The A1 provides Flat, Bass1, Bass2, and Bass3 EQ modes, switchable simply by briefly pressing the power button,
  • Three-Color Status LED, Frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz

User questions & answers

Question: I use a splitter for two headphones and the volume drops. Will this amp help
Answer: Get the older fiio e7. Great headphone amp, great sound, and two headphone outputs with the power to power both
Question: I have a bluetooth transmitter with 2 bluetooth headphones that I use with low volume. Can I plug my transmitter into this for more volume on headsets
Answer: You could potentially plug this between the audio player and the bluetooth transmitter. However, this is a portable device with a built-in Lithium battery, so you keep it plugged into the charger.
Question: What is included with Fiio A1 portable headphone amp
Answer: Mine included 2 3.5mm cables, one short (approx 4") with 90 degree connectors and one longer (about 2.5') with straight pin connections, a micro usb charging cable (about 2'), 3 plastic frames that protect the top part (one flush and two with belt style clips), and the amp itself.
Question: I have been using an older Auvio, cheap and plastic. Is this upgrade worth the much higher price
Answer: Much higher price ? It's 25 bucks. Good god, man...

Product features

Plug-n-Play Instant Audio Improvement

With higher power and superior fidelity output than smartphones, the A1 satisfies your need for better sound quality as well as quantity. Improve the sound quality and volume of any portable audio source such as MP3 players, iPods, personal media players, mobile phones, laptops, notebooks/netbooks, or portable CD players. With built-in volume controls, the A1 can be used with the line-level output of audio sources for even better sound quality.



High Quality Electronic Volume Control



The A1's volume buttons are made of Alps micro switches for sensitive and reliable operation.



FiiO A1. Classic. Tiny. Metal.

 

A New Generation

Exquisite design and improved operation. Utilizing a sandblasted aluminum alloy chassis, the A1 offers modern appearance and ergonomic contours. A removable clear back clip makes for convenient and stylish usage in a variety of scenarios.

 

Four EQ Modes

The A1 provides Flat, and three bass enhanced EQ profiles. Switch between the EQ profiles by simply pressing the power button, allowing you to best adapt the sound output to your headphones and your ears. The multi-function light clearly indicates the current EQ mode.

 

Specifications

  • Frequency Response: 20~20kHz
  • Earphone Impedance: 16~100 Ohms
  • THD+N: <0.05% (1kHz)
  • SNR: >100dB (A-Weighted)
  • Output Power: >78mW (16 Ohm)
  • Battery: 160mAh, approx. 13H usage
  • Dimensions: 1.65" x 1.57" x 0.37"
  • Weight: 0.71 oz

Your Perfect Audio Companion

Three-color status LED indicates EQ setting and battery status, allowing you to check working status at a glance. Rechargeable Li-poly battery provides approximately 13 hours of play time on a full charge. Barely larger than a 1.5 inch square and less than 10mm thick, the A1 is the perfect companion to modern smartphone and laptop computers that needs some help in the audio department.

 

Headphone Amplifier, Portable Headphone amp 3.5mm Stereo Audio Out, Powered Dual-Output with Lithium Battery and 2-Level Boost,Headphone Amplifier for iPhone, iPod, iPad,MP3,MP4 and Computers

LVY

Based on 778 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Portable Headphone Amplifier which make it convenient to carry, can output remarkable sound without distortion. Have High/Low gain switch for High Quality Audio of the headphones.



Note:

It is not recommended to use while charging, because current disturbance will occur when charging.

(That's why there is noise. When fully charge, please disconnect the power supply, and then use the headphone amplifier.)



Specification:

Capacity: 2000mAH(3.7V)

Amp Using Time: More Than 15 Hours

Working Voltage: 8.3V/1A

SNR>120dB

Distortion: 0.004%

Output Power: 40Mw in Impedance 16Ω

Headphone Impedance: 16-300Ω

Dimension: 95 x 52 x 13(L x W x H)



Package Included:

1 x Headphone Amplifier

1 x USB Power Cable

2 x Audio Cable

1 x User Manual

  • Headphone amplifier using Time: More Than 15 Hours, Load Impedance: 16-300Ω.
  • High/Low gain switch for optimal performance of the headphones.
  • Portable Headphone Amplifier which make it convenient to carry, can output remarkable sound without distortion. Audio Input: 3.5 mm Jack, Audio output: 3.5 mm Jack
  • Headphone Amplifier works for SONY, Sennheiser RS120, HDR 120 and beyerdynamic headphone.
  • iphone to headphone amp (Note: Lightning to 3.5mm cable is not included, you need to buy it yourself)

User questions & answers

Question: Does this work good with the dt 990 pro and does it come with a charger for it
Answer: Yes, support beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO (80OHM or 250OHM). just usb cable.
Question: Does this take a special 3.5mm male plug to make this work right? Ive tried 4 different ones and connection dont stay connected
Answer: A 3.5mm stereo male plug should work. If it doesn’t I wouldn’t be surprised if there was something wrong with the connection in your unit.
Question: have all cables hooked up cd imputes, headphone inputs and no sound !!!, when I plug in to charge the charge lite is red then turns blue still no soun
Answer: Is the volume turned up on the cd player? Otherwise fairly straight forward. Audio cable from cd out or headphone jack to "in jack' on amp and headphone plugged into the amps headphone hole, make sure if there is a switch on the headphones it is on or open.
Question: is there any warranty period with this unit
Answer: Yes, warranty period 12 months

Neoteck 3.5mm Headphone Amplifier Two-Stage Gain Switch, Portable HiFi Headset Amplifier, Aluminum Matte Surface

Neoteck

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • 【Mini HiFi Headphone Amplifier】It is Delicate, Compact, Lightweight, and Portable that it can be Carry Conveniently
  • 【3.5mm AUX Input and Output】3.5mm AUX Input and Output, SNR>120Db and THD+N 0.0003%, Make it Possibility to Output not just Louder Sound, but a Sharper and More Real Stereo Sound without Distortion
  • 【Aluminum Matte Surface】Fashion Design Provides You a Comfortable Handheld Feeling While the Aluminum Matte Surface Makes it Durable
  • 【Rechargeable Lithium Battery】It Adopts a Rechargeable Lithium Battery with 1500mAH Capacity, Which Allows it to Stay Working More than 8 Hours
  • 【Wide Compacity】It can Remarkably Compatible with a Various of Digital Devices, Such as MP3 MP4 Mobile Phone Computer (Tips: It is not recommended to use while charging, because current disturbance will occur when charging, Which may lead to noise)

Product features

Overview:

This HiFi Headphone Amplifier supports impedance 16-150 Ω, Delicate, Compact and Portable, Which Make it Convenient to Carry, Can Output Remarkable Sound without Distortion.

  • 3.5mm AUX Input and Output
  • High Quality Audio, Suitable for your Mobile Phone MP3 MP4 Laptop PC
  • Noise Reduction Function, and Distortion with Enhanced Dynamics, Perfect Pure Stereo Effect, HD Voice Music Sound Quality Optimization
  • Aluminum Matte Surface, Fashion and Compact Design
  • Not only suit for music enthusiast, also could be a ideal gift for those who has trouble hearing.

3.5mm Headset Amplifier, enhance your music listening experience

Not just louder sound, also a sharper and more real stereo sound without distortion.

The Aluminum Matte Surface Makes it Durable, Providing You a Comfortable Handheld Feeling

Two-stage gain switch: L/H

Enhances the signal input into the amp circuit for optimal performance of the headphones.

16Ω L: 90mw H: 105mw

32Ω L: 74mw H: 80mw

64Ω L: 45mw H: 50mw

150Ω L: 26mw H: 32mw

Charged by Micro USB Cable

Tips: come with a USB Power Cable, adapter is NOT included. You could use 5V 1A adapter of your mobile phone or tablet to connect USB cable.

Package List:

1 x USB Power Cable

1 x 3.5mm Headphone Amplifier

1 x Audio Cable

1 x User Manual

Neoteck Portable 3.5mm Headphone Amplifier with Bluetooth 5.0 Receiver, Two-Stage Gain Switch, HiFi Headset Amplifier, Aluminum Matte Surface [Newest]

Based on 32 reviews Check latest price

Product description

All Neoteck Product Comes With 18 Months US Base Warranty.

Overview:

This HiFi headphone amplifier design is normally used to drive a headphone with a relatively high impedance. It can connect various audio players and mobile phones to process, amplify and output its audio signals, which can drive all kinds of earphones.

Specification:

Lithium battery capacity: 1500mAH

Amp using time: more than 8 hours

Bluetooth decoding mode: SBC, AAC

Bluetooth protocol: A2DP V1.3.1, AVRCP V1.6 ,HFP V1.7, HSP V1.2

Bluetooth distance: 8m Max

Amp battery voltage: DC3.7V - 4V

Amp internal working voltage: ±4V

SNR>100Db

THD+N 0.0003%

Output Power: 40Mw in Impedance 16Ω

Adapted Headphone Impedance: 16-300Ω

Package Contents:

1 x Bluetooth Headphone Amplifier

1 x USB Power Cable

1 x 100cm Audio Cable

1 x User's Manual

  • HiFi Headphone Amplifier, It supports most headphones of high impedance 16-150Ω, 3.5mm AUX Input and Output, signal-to-noise ratio> 100Db, THD + N = 0.0003%, fully filter noise, enjoy high-quality audio.
  • Bluetooth 5.0 receiver, It is designed to deliver studio-quality sound to your ears through wireless Bluetooth 5.0 technology-suitable for your existing wired headphones, earphones and even speakers.
  • 1500mAH Rechargable Lithium Battery, It adopts a rechargeable lithium battery with 1500mAH capacity, which allows it to stay working more than 8 hours. Plus, there is a volume control knob for volume adjustment.
  • Two-stage Gain Switch, It enhances the signal input into the amp circuit for the optimal performance of the headphones. Make it Possibility to output not only louder sound but a sharper and more Real stereo sound without distortion
  • Broad Compatibility, This amplifier is remarkably compatible with a variety of digital devices, such as MP3, MP4, Mobile Phone, Computer, CD players and personal media player.

Product features

Overview:

  • It is the upgraded version of model: NTK059 from Neoteck headphone amp, ASIN: B01MS22YWV.
  • This Bluetooth headphone amplifier design is normally used to drive a headphone with a high impedance in 16-150 Ω . With two-stage Gain Switch, It can connect various audio players and mobile phones to process, amplify and output its audio signals.
  • Well, if you need a sound boost, that's the one for you!

Two-stage gain switch: L/H

Enhances the signal input into the amp circuit for optimal performance of the headphones.

16Ω L: 90mw H: 105mw

32Ω L: 74mw H: 80mw

64Ω L: 45mw H: 50mw

150Ω L: 26mw H: 32mw

Charged by Micro USB Cable

Tips:

1) come with a USB Power Cable, adapter is NOT included. You could use 5V 1A adapter of your mobile phone or tablet to connect USB cable.

2) It is not recommended to use while charging, because current disturbance will occur when in charging. That's why there is noise. When fully charge, please disconnect the power supply, and then use the headphone amplifier.

Package List:

1 x USB Power Cable

1 x 3.5mm Headphone Amplifier

1 x Audio Cable

1 x User Manual

LiNKFOR Portable Headphone Amplifier 16-500 Ohms Headphone Amplifier Rechargeable 3.5mm HiFi Earphone Amplifier Suitable for High Impedance Headphones MP3 MP4 and Computers

Based on 62 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Overview:

HiFi headphone amplifier, delicate, compact, lightweight, and portable, which make it convenient to carry, can output remarkable sound without distortion.

Specification:

Lithium Battery Capacity: 2400mAH

Amp Using Time: More Than 16 Hours

Amp Internal Voltage: ±10V

SNR>100Db

THD+N 0.0003%

Output Power: 25mW in Impedance 500Ω, 500mW in Impedance 16Ω

Adapted Headphone Impedance: 16-500Ω

Dimension: 106 x 60 x 14(L x W x H)

Applicability:

Shure SE215

Sennheiser IE80

Sennheiser HD650

Sony XBA-A3

Beyerdynamic DT990

Package Content:

1 x Headphone Amplifier

1 x USB Power Cable

1 x Audio Cable

1 x User's Manual

  • 【16-500 Ohms Portable Headphone Amplifier】Suitable for High Impedance headphones ranging 16-500 Ohms,Enhance the output signal for a better sound experience
  • 【2400mAH rechargeable lithium battery】 it adopts a rechargeable lithium battery with 2400mAH capacity, powers for up to 16 hours using.
  • 【Gain Switch Function】Gain switch for matching output to headphone power needs.
  • 【Selected high quality components and chips】Superior sound quality through expertly selected components utilizing OPA2140 Preamp section.
  • 【High-grade aluminum alloy design】 overall shielding without signal interference, ensure high-quality audio signal to transmission.

User questions & answers

Question: Can i listen while charging, without any issues
Answer: Yes it will power hungry amp I had 2 of these 1 on each 15 audiopipe bd4
Question: How long does the battery last in 500 Ohm ? also you advertise the battery at 2400mAH is it
Answer: Yes it can.
Question: Is this DAC
Answer: hello,Thank you for your kind email.please note that the Inner Size of this item is 40 x 40mm/ 1.6" x 1.6" (L*W);the Overall Size(Approx) is 43 x 43 x 29mm/ 1.7" x 1.7" x 1.14" (L*W*H) .Please feel free to contact us if you need any assistance in future.:)Have a nice day.Best regards,dengfang
Question: Can it be used while charging without any interference from the usb power
Answer: I used them on heavy shelving units with angle iron legs on vinyl tile in my basement to prevent digging into and scratching the tile. They are quality rubber and worked perfectly. My shelves are stationary, so I don't move them, but the rubber should grip the tile. I hope this helps.

Topping 4330354362 NX1s Digital HiFi Portable Headphone Amplifier (Black)

Based on 94 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Spec: Measured: 8.4cm*5.5cm*1.0cm Weight:78g Power input: DC5V/1A(PC`s USB 0.5A) Charge time: 40 hours THD+N: SNR:≥117dB Noise: Gain: 0dB/8.7dB Bass:0dB/4.0dB Output Power: 150mW(32Ω); 25mW(300Ω) Frequency response: 20Hz-100kHz Recommended Headphone Impedance: 16-300 ohm Warning: Output voltage of the charger could not exceed 5V Package: NX1s *1 3.5 to 3.5 Audio Cable *1 Rubber band *2 Velcro *5 Rubber Pad *1 User Manual *1 Warranty card *1

  • 40 hours long play back time;
  • Full aluminum case;
  • Micro USB charge port;
  • Intelligent charging with battery indicator
  • TOCOS potentiometer;

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work with my gaming PC and my audiophile headphones? I'm seeing most users are pairing with a phone instead
Answer: No just a basic knob
Question: can this be used with a samsung tv
Answer: I would do same brand to get the most out of it i wouldn't mix match
Question: How does it pair with tin p1 IEM
Answer: The APMN-2000 is a MINI size 2000 watt car amplifier, the APDLO-2000 is a standard size 2000 watt car amplifier. Additionally, the APDLO dealer line amplifiers utilize the latest MOSFET technology, dual double-dipped TORRIOD's and when professionally installed by an authorized dealer there is an additional 1-year warranty equalling a total of 2 years.
Question: Is the battery lithium ion or lithium polymer
Answer: Sure will. You will need to have dual 4 ohm so you can wire down to 1. It will give you about 925-1000 to each one. Not bad really

Little Bear B4-X Portable Dual-Mono Vacuum Tube Headphone Amplifier; Mini Balanced Audio Headphone Amp B4 Upgrade Version

Based on 190 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Parameters:

Tube: USA RAYTHEON JAN5899 ×2

Op amp: NE5532*2 (can be upgraded )

Lithium Battery: 12V, 1000mA

Charging time: 2-2.5 hours

Working time: 4-4.5 hours

Output power: 450mW

SNR: 105dB

Suggest load impedance: 16-300Ω

Output: 2.5 balanced Jack*1, 3.5mm Jack *1

Size (L*W*D): 115*69*23 mm / 4.5*2.7*0.9 in (without knobs)



Packing List:

1× headphone amplifier

1× power supply

1× 3.5mm audio cable

2× band



Notice:

When using B4-X with your cellphone, if you heard some "zhi ~ zhi" noise in your headphone. Probably it is the inteference from your cellphone such like WIFI or 4G signal, which intefers the tube and cause noise. That's normal. Because there are microphone effect with all tubes. To avoid it, please keep your cellphone far away from B4-X.



Q&A:

Q: Tried different source and headphones, but the right channel still has static.

A: Maybe the tube has a poor contact after long shipping process, open the chasis and adjust the screw near the tube while listening (if you cannot find it, contact us and we will give you a photo with marks to help you). Maybe the tube is broken, you can buy a 5899 tube in local shops. And we will refund you the cost.

Q: It broke just now four loud pops and it's doesn't work now.

A: Mainly because the battery is run out of power. Please charge it. If no help, please contact us.

Q: The Amp has a lot of electronic feedback/interference when a cellphone is nearby. It creates popping in the headphones.

A: Vacuum tubes are easy to be interfered by devices that can transfer siganl like cellphones, routers. Please keep the amp away from them.

Q: It cannot be charged, something is loose inside the charger.

A: Maybe the charger is broken. Contact us to get a new one please.

  • The difference between B4 and B4-X: ① B4-X is a dual-mono balanced version. Its left and right channel are amplified by independent components, and power supply, tubes, and op amp are all independent and symmetric. So the degree of sound separation is higher than B4.
  • ② B4-X adopts 2 groups of independent power supply(+12V and -12V) for 2 op amps, less mutual effects and can drive 300Ω headphones. ③ The circuit adopts dual op amp parallel output, with higher output power. ④ B4-X has 3.5mm and 2.5mm 2 kinds of output interface, suitable for most of balanced and standard headphones.
  • Mini size and unique design: built-in tube makes you have a tube amplifier which can be held by one hand, convenient to carry and can enjoy HiFi music everywhere. Full, delicate and soft sound: warmer than transistors, independent op amp and power supply inhance the SNR and degree of separation, less interplay and higher sound quality.
  • With built-in battery protection circuit: battery lets your listening feast without time limitation. It can't be turned on during charging and will power off automatically after fully charged, and charger LED will turn to green.
  • High-end making material and craft: using gold-plated socket, original nichicon electrolytic capacitor, original DALE resistors and precision ring resistance. Prompt and courteous customer service.

User questions & answers

Question: Why does mine not work?.after charging it,the tube doesnt light up and no sound
Answer: Make sure all the connection from the wall to the unit is properly connected and secured.
Question: Is it okay to stick a piece of paper over the circuit board? The yellow is an eyesore
Answer: The "yellow" color is the copper circuits themselves, which is the main selling point of the product. If you don't want to see the retro design of circuits or tubes, buy a different product.
Question: Anyone compare the sound quality of the little bear with a more expensive or non portable tube amp? Thoughts
Answer: I have the Valhalla 2, but it doesnt have the traditional "tube sound". However, what I can say, I have the DT990 and I hate the way it sounds from the Valahalla 2. This amp though, tames it in such a pleasing way. Now, along with those, I use the HD600 primarily for listening. The Valhalla 2 has amazing synergy with them. It tightens it up and make them sound amazing. For portability, I have tried the HD600 with this one as well. It sounds a bit more laid back and closer to what youd expect from tubes with PLENTY of volume. TL;DR: For the price, this little amp is pretty great.
Question: Can it play audeze lcd2c and dt
Answer: Don't know, but it does well with dt 990.

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