A headphone amplifier is an audio amplifier designed particularly to drive headphones instead of loudspeakers. It really is just a small power amplifier that can be connected to a standard headphone jack or (usually) the line output of an audio source. They allow for higher possible volumes and greater audio clarity than the smaller, cheaper amplifiers that are used in most components like Integrated Stereo Amplifiers, Receivers and Mini Systems. The headphone amplifier improves the sound quality by increasing the amount of power available to move the headphone transducer, increasing the control that the source has over just where the transducer is in space. ......... With its two 12AX7 valves, the Vincent KHV-1 produces a warm, soft yet precise sound that music-lovers appreciate so much and is probably one of the ultimate headphone Amplifier designs. It is also an ideal addition to the SP-996 and SP-997 mono block power amplifiers and is definitely a space-saving stereo unit for harmonious, open sound through your good quality headphones.