Does the Darkvoice 336SE drive the AKG K240 Studio?
Computed from rated specifications · target SPL 110 dB · load 300 Ω
Verdict
AdequateThe Darkvoice Darkvoice 336SE adequately drives the AKG K240 Studio with limited margin (~5.0 dB headroom at 300 ohms; needs ~79.4 mW, delivers 250 mW). Note: this OTL tube amp's high output impedance (100 Ω) interacts strongly with this low-impedance (55 Ω) headphone, which can audibly alter its tonal balance. OTL tube amps are best paired with high-impedance (250 Ω+) headphones; this is a less ideal match.
5.0 dB
79.4 mW
250 mW
2.09 Vrms
| Impedance | 55.0 Ω rated |
| Sensitivity | 91.0 dB/mW rated |
| Driver | Dynamic |
| Spec basis | Rated |
| Output impedance assumed | 100.0 Ω estimated |
| Power @ 300 Ω | 250 mW |
| Power @ 600 Ω | 125 mW *est. |
| Power source | Estimated low confidence |
This OTL tube amp's output impedance (100 Ω) is high relative to this headphone's 55 Ω impedance (ratio 0.6×). OTL tube amps are best paired with headphones ≥ 250 Ω; this combination may cause audible tonal coloration.
One or more amp specifications (power output or output impedance) are estimated rather than published by the manufacturer. Treat this pairing's verdict as approximate.
Where to buy
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Other amplifiers for the AKG K240 Studio
| Amplifier | Headroom |
|---|---|
| Schiit Lyr 3 | Ample 18.8 dB |
| JDS Labs Atom Amp 2 | Ample 15.2 dB |
| Topping DX3 Pro+ | Ample 13.6 dB |
| Schiit Magni Heretic | Ample 13.0 dB |
| Little Dot MkII | Marginal 1.0 dB |
| Apple USB-C to 3.5mm | Insufficient -4.1 dB |
Other headphones the Darkvoice 336SE can drive
| Headphone | Headroom |
|---|---|
| Koss Porta Pro | Ample 19.6 dB |
| Grado SR80x | Ample 19.3 dB |
| Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X | Ample 14.0 dB |
| Focal Clear (original) | Ample 14.0 dB |
| HiFiMan Edition XS | Adequate 5.8 dB |
| Fostex T50RP Mk3 | Adequate 3.1 dB |