Monolith by Monoprice THX AAA Balanced Headphone Amplifier featuring THX AAA 887 Technology
Product # 39359
UPC # 889028135280
$299.99
*Affirm is not available for business or international orders
Qty: 1
$299.99
Qty: 2-9
$299.99
Qty: 10-19
$299.99
Qty: 20-49
$299.99
Qty: 50+
$299.99
To see and take advantage of our member pricing sign up for a business account or contact our sales team.
To see and take advantage of our member pricing sign up for a business account or contact our sales team.
Customers Also Shopped For
Questions and Answers
Do not include HTML, links, references to other stores, pricing or contact info.
My question is about:
If your question is about more than one item, click + to add them.
Browse 115 questions
Browse 115 questions
and 167 answers
I have hearing issue on my right ear. can you adjust volume level differently (left and right) with this DAC?
A shopper
on Jun 22, 2022
BEST ANSWER: I hope you realize that the Monolith THX amplifier does not have a DAC. It is a headphone ampifier only. That being said, it does not have a balance control or any means to independently adjust the L/R levels.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- L L on Jun 27, 2022
- Purchased on Mar 2, 2022
BEST ANSWER: I hope you realize that the Monolith THX amplifier does not have a DAC. It is a headphone ampifier only. That being said, it does not have a balance control or any means to independently adjust the L/R levels.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- L L on Jun 27, 2022
- Purchased on Mar 2, 2022
No. One volume control knob adjusts volume to both headphones equally. Suggest you look into headphones that have separate volume controls at each earpiece (and such may or may not exist as far as I know).
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- John S on Jun 22, 2022
- Purchased on Jan 31, 2022
No, this headphone amplifier does not have a balance control. The RME dac I feed into it does have balance controls. Sounds fantastic on my Hifiman Sundara and Monolith 1060 headphones.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Mike L on Jun 22, 2022
- Purchased on Dec 6, 2021
This is a headphone amplifier not a DAC. No it does not have balance control and I don't think most of them do. But it is a great little headphone amp! Love mine...
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- jeff e on Jun 27, 2022
- Purchased on Mar 14, 2022
This is not a DAC this is an amplifier only. But you can not adjust volume differently. Both left and right either go up or down together.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Aaron M on Jun 27, 2022
- Purchased on Jun 7, 2022
No. There is only a single volume knob on this DAC which controls left and right levels simultaneously.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Purvil J on Jun 27, 2022
- Purchased on Mar 27, 2022
No, there isn't any way to adjust the Left/Right channels separately with this amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Christian R on Jun 22, 2022
- Purchased on Dec 21, 2021
Not from the amp itself. Maybe if you had some sort of accessory you could.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Valentin R on Jun 27, 2022
- Purchased on Mar 13, 2022
You can't, but maybe software on your computer or digital audio player can.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Tom M. on Jun 23, 2022
- Purchased on Dec 25, 2021
This amp doesn’t include a DAC. It also doesn’t have a balance adjustment.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Roger L on Jun 27, 2022
- Purchased on Jun 2, 2022
No, it doesn’t have a balance control.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- William S on Jun 23, 2022
- Purchased on Dec 19, 2021
Vote for the best answer above!
What is the difference between this and Product # 24459 (https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=24459)?
Gleb K
on Apr 7, 2020
BEST ANSWER: The biggest difference would be that #24459 also includes a DAC (Digital to Analog converter.) The other difference is #39359 uses a slightly updated THX module, the 887 ans as opposed to the 788 pm the #24459. Lastly, the #39359 has buttons for gain as well as an output specifically designed for use with IEMS.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Scott B on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 19, 2019
BEST ANSWER: The biggest difference would be that #24459 also includes a DAC (Digital to Analog converter.) The other difference is #39359 uses a slightly updated THX module, the 887 ans as opposed to the 788 pm the #24459. Lastly, the #39359 has buttons for gain as well as an output specifically designed for use with IEMS.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Scott B on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 19, 2019
This unit does not include the DAC and DSP - but elsewhere it was stated that the #24459 DAC could not be bypassed - that is incorrect - you can use outboard DACs and bypass the internal AK DAC contained in the #24459.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Reginald P on Jul 31, 2022
There are a lot of differences, but the primary difference is that one is simply an amplifier and nothing else, and the other is an amplifier, a DAC, and a digital signal processor.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Nelson D. C on Apr 9, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 18, 2019
The one you linked has a DAC built into it, as this one does not. As far as I know, you cannot bypass the DAC, so if you want to experiment with DACs get this one.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Jeff K on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 19, 2019
This one is just an amp. The other one is DAC and Amp in one
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Matthew F on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
The 887 is pure amplifier the other one has a dac too
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- krikour m on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Does the pass through output both the XLR and RCA inputs or just the RCA?
Chris W
on Nov 27, 2019
BEST ANSWER: The pass through RCA outputs only function with signals from the RCA inputs. Signals from the XLR inputs will not pass through to the RCA pass through output.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Bryce U on Nov 27, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
BEST ANSWER: The pass through RCA outputs only function with signals from the RCA inputs. Signals from the XLR inputs will not pass through to the RCA pass through output.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Bryce U on Nov 27, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
It outputs on everything at once (so you can listen to 3 different headphones at once if you desire)
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Jonathan H on Nov 27, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
Confirmed, when balanced XLR inputs are used, no output to the RCA.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Mark S on Nov 27, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 20, 2019
There's just one pair of RCA pass through output.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U on Dec 5, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
I heard this runs a bit hot, how long can this stay on in use before recommending to switch this off?
New User U
on Feb 11, 2020
BEST ANSWER: I use this amp with a Topping D90 on top as my office rig. It's on and running at least 8-10 hours per day. It doesn't seem to get very hot. I have no concerns about running it all day.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- CHIP H on Feb 12, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 18, 2020
BEST ANSWER: I use this amp with a Topping D90 on top as my office rig. It's on and running at least 8-10 hours per day. It doesn't seem to get very hot. I have no concerns about running it all day.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- CHIP H on Feb 12, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 18, 2020
It will stay on as long as it can detect a signal from your DAC. If it doesn't notice a signal, it will turn off automatically after a set amount of time
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Argenis D Chavez H on Feb 11, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 28, 2020
That wasn't the question, it was whether this would have any detrimental effects to the AMP if left on IN USE for a long period of time.
- Reply
- New User U on Feb 11, 2020
Actually it runs very cool.I leave mine on and it’s barely above ambient room temp even after long listening sessions.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- B E on Feb 11, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 14, 2020
∞ It is a class D amp so it runs _very_ cool. By default it powers itself off after no signal is detected.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Lance S on Feb 13, 2020
- Purchased on Dec 20, 2019
I run my planars off of this amp for long listening sessions and it never runs hot.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Tim R on Feb 11, 2020
- Purchased on Dec 28, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Does the pass through have THX?
A shopper
on Feb 20, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Simple answer; no. The pass-through is not passing through the THX amplification section.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Bryce U on Feb 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Simple answer; no. The pass-through is not passing through the THX amplification section.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Bryce U on Feb 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
I would say no. The pass through is only for the RCA inputs. The volume knob has no effect on the pass-through output. I believe it completely skips the THX/amplification circuitry.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen on Feb 21, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
No. It wouldn't be a pass through if it was intended to do anything besides pass a signal, like a wire.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Andrew L on Feb 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
No. It just passes whatever analog signal your DAC is outputting. Zero processing.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Mark K on Feb 21, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Should I turn the amp on/off with headphones plugged in or should I first unplug the headphones before turning the unit off?
New User U
on Jan 20, 2020
BEST ANSWER: It's always good practice before turning on to turn volume down all the way then turn on amp wait for say 30 seconds then plug in headphones. Then carefully play music and slowly turn up volume. To shut down stop music then turn down volume unplug headphones then turn off amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Alexander D on Jan 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 24, 2019
BEST ANSWER: It's always good practice before turning on to turn volume down all the way then turn on amp wait for say 30 seconds then plug in headphones. Then carefully play music and slowly turn up volume. To shut down stop music then turn down volume unplug headphones then turn off amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Alexander D on Jan 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 24, 2019
I've cycled the power on this amp while listening with moderately efficient headphones (99 dB SPL/mW) and head no clicks, pops or other noise as the power goes on and off. Given that experience, there is likely no need to unplug ordinary headphones when powering the unit on or off. The story may be different with highly sensitive IEMs so YMMV.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael S on Jan 22, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
For basically all amps, it's good practice to always (1) plug in the headphones AFTER turning the amp ON and (2) unplug the headphones BEFORE turning the amp OFF. Before either, however, be sure to turn the VOLUME knob all the way down.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- James S on Jan 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
No difference. There is no sound (click) during on off
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- PAOLO B on Jan 21, 2020
- Purchased on Dec 3, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Can this be used as a power amp for headphones with a DAC that has volume control and balanced out?
A shopper
on Feb 24, 2020
BEST ANSWER: It could, but you should probably use a DAC without a volume control. The potentiometer actually degrades the sound quality to some extent.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- James S on Feb 24, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
BEST ANSWER: It could, but you should probably use a DAC without a volume control. The potentiometer actually degrades the sound quality to some extent.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- James S on Feb 24, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
Yes. Using a Topping DX7 Pro with balanced out and volume control with Sennheiser HD500’s.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert W on Feb 24, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 20, 2019
Yes. If your DAC has digital volume control, you might find that you get better results setting your dac to a fixed output with no attenuation and then using the volume control on this amp. Generally, digital volume control will reduce your dynamic range. This amp rocks. I use it with an RME ADI-2 DAC fs set to 0dBu attenuation.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- jtstep on Feb 24, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 17, 2019
You can certainly do so. I feed mine with the balanced output of a Schiit Bifrost 2 DAC,. and it works beautifully. There is no fixed output selection for this headphone amp, so while you can easily use it with a DAC having a digital volume control, you'll still be sending the signal through the amp's volume pot.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael S on Feb 24, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Is this enough to power the seinheiser HD800S headphones? Which has a 300ohms impedance.
New User U
on Jul 14, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Yes. More than enough. I have the HD800 and use it regularly with the Monolith 887 and Topping D90 in balanced mode.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- James S on Jul 14, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes. More than enough. I have the HD800 and use it regularly with the Monolith 887 and Topping D90 in balanced mode.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- James S on Jul 14, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
I found this amp was not powerful enough for Focal dynamic headphones at 55-80 Ohms. Although this amp was my favourite for a long time, closest to perfect I had ever experienced... It took me a long time to realize a more powerful amp was what I needed to get a nice tonal balance in the low-end. That said, you may be completely happy with it driving HD800S.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Daniel van V on Jul 14, 2020
- Purchased on Dec 4, 2019
Yes, this amplifier has more than enough power for an HD800S, or pretty much almost any headphone, with very, very few exceptions.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Nelson D. C on Jul 16, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 18, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Is this amp good enough to power the HD800s headphones?
New User U
on Jul 14, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This is, of course, a subjective question. But I'm using mine with a Hifiman HE1000v2, a ZMF Auteur, an Audeze LCD3, and a Focal Utopia at various times, along with a Chotd Qutest DAC, all connected with pure silver cables. The results are outstanding by my reckoning. This amp is great value for money, and in my view showcases high end headphones outstandingly, provided the other elements in your signal chain don't limit your results.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert S on Jul 14, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 10, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This is, of course, a subjective question. But I'm using mine with a Hifiman HE1000v2, a ZMF Auteur, an Audeze LCD3, and a Focal Utopia at various times, along with a Chotd Qutest DAC, all connected with pure silver cables. The results are outstanding by my reckoning. This amp is great value for money, and in my view showcases high end headphones outstandingly, provided the other elements in your signal chain don't limit your results.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert S on Jul 14, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 10, 2020
Rest assured that this amp will easily power the Sennheiser HD800s headphones.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- MARK E on Jul 14, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 21, 2020
Yes I used it with an hd800. Plenty of power.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Marcos K on Jul 17, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 30, 2020
Vote for the best answer above!
Can I unplug headphones from the amplifier while it is on?
A shopper
on Oct 29, 2021
BEST ANSWER: Not recommended. If you do, I would turn the volume down to 0.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Nov 1, 2021
BEST ANSWER: Not recommended. If you do, I would turn the volume down to 0.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Nov 1, 2021
I would think that's OK. I'd turn the volume all the way down first.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Kenneth W on Oct 29, 2021
- Purchased on Sep 23, 2021
Yes, I do. I swap out different headphones from time to time.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Lance G on Oct 29, 2021
- Purchased on Aug 13, 2021
Vote for the best answer above!
Hi!
If I use an RCA input, do I get more power on the XLR 4pin output or only if I use an XLR balanced input?
If I use an RCA input, do I get more power on the XLR 4pin output or only if I use an XLR balanced input?
A shopper
on Oct 5, 2022
BEST ANSWER: You get the same amount of power output regardless which input you use. Though do note the volume output of the source you're plugging in.
This amp has TONS of clean power. I wouldn't worry about the power output. In fact, I had to get an attenuator so I could turn the knob up more. That's not to say there's any issues if the potentiometer is lower too, no channel imbalance or anything like that. It's just that if you want to be able to turn the knob and not worry about how far, you may want an attenuator IF using more sensitive headphones.
There's 3 gain settings on the amp. So you can adjust the power a bit using that as well.
I use both XLR and RCA inputs. There's a convenient button on the front that's switches between the two inputs. When I push this button the volume level is just about the same. The difference is from the sources.
This amp has TONS of clean power. I wouldn't worry about the power output. In fact, I had to get an attenuator so I could turn the knob up more. That's not to say there's any issues if the potentiometer is lower too, no channel imbalance or anything like that. It's just that if you want to be able to turn the knob and not worry about how far, you may want an attenuator IF using more sensitive headphones.
There's 3 gain settings on the amp. So you can adjust the power a bit using that as well.
I use both XLR and RCA inputs. There's a convenient button on the front that's switches between the two inputs. When I push this button the volume level is just about the same. The difference is from the sources.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Tom M. on Oct 5, 2022
- Purchased on Dec 25, 2021
BEST ANSWER: You get the same amount of power output regardless which input you use. Though do note the volume output of the source you're plugging in.
This amp has TONS of clean power. I wouldn't worry about the power output. In fact, I had to get an attenuator so I could turn the knob up more. That's not to say there's any issues if the potentiometer is lower too, no channel imbalance or anything like that. It's just that if you want to be able to turn the knob and not worry about how far, you may want an attenuator IF using more sensitive headphones.
There's 3 gain settings on the amp. So you can adjust the power a bit using that as well.
I use both XLR and RCA inputs. There's a convenient button on the front that's switches between the two inputs. When I push this button the volume level is just about the same. The difference is from the sources.
This amp has TONS of clean power. I wouldn't worry about the power output. In fact, I had to get an attenuator so I could turn the knob up more. That's not to say there's any issues if the potentiometer is lower too, no channel imbalance or anything like that. It's just that if you want to be able to turn the knob and not worry about how far, you may want an attenuator IF using more sensitive headphones.
There's 3 gain settings on the amp. So you can adjust the power a bit using that as well.
I use both XLR and RCA inputs. There's a convenient button on the front that's switches between the two inputs. When I push this button the volume level is just about the same. The difference is from the sources.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Tom M. on Oct 5, 2022
- Purchased on Dec 25, 2021
With rca input the amp will be boosting a non optimal signal power wise. But thais not to say it won't sound good, especially if your source is clean distortion free music.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- MARC B on Oct 5, 2022
- Purchased on Nov 10, 2021
You will indeed get more power with the RCA input/XLR output, but you will get maximum power using XLR inputs and outputs.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- William S on Oct 5, 2022
- Purchased on Dec 19, 2021
Vote for the best answer above!
Can this be used as a pre amp with active speakers?
A shopper
on Sep 10, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, you can utilize the pass through output.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Sep 10, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, you can utilize the pass through output.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Sep 10, 2019
No. There is no line level output that utilizes the preamp. Using "pass through" does not utilize the preamp and is no different than leaving this unit out of the signal chain to your powered monitors.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U on May 30, 2020
Volume knob on the amp has no impact on the pass through output so you will have to control volume either at the source or after the amp.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Mark S on Nov 27, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 20, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
When the volume is all the way down on this amp, I still hear sound from the headphones on the balanced output. Is that normal?
Mason L
on Apr 14, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This happens when the amp is on it's highest gain setting (3). A good rule of thumb is to use the lowest gain setting that still allows you to get your desired sound level. High gain also raises the amps noise floor.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- MARK E on Apr 15, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 21, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This happens when the amp is on it's highest gain setting (3). A good rule of thumb is to use the lowest gain setting that still allows you to get your desired sound level. High gain also raises the amps noise floor.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- MARK E on Apr 15, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 21, 2020
Not for me, I don't hear any sound. Even if the volume is up. I am using balanced cables as well.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- David T on Apr 14, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 4, 2020
It should not happen. This is not normal. It might be due to other things in your setup like the DAC outputs that are used and whether they are increasing the gain of the output signal etc. There can be other factors as well.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Muhammad M on Apr 22, 2020
- Purchased on Dec 28, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Your description says XLR , 1/4" and 3.5mm INPUTS. I don't see those . I think you really mean OUTPUTS?
A shopper
on Jun 6, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This is correct. Theres one balanced pair (XLR) input, and one single-ended (RCA) input. The outputs are the XLR-4, 1/4" and 3.5 mm headphone jacks, and the single ended (RCA) passthrough output pair. The volume control has no effect on the passthrough output.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen on Jun 6, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This is correct. Theres one balanced pair (XLR) input, and one single-ended (RCA) input. The outputs are the XLR-4, 1/4" and 3.5 mm headphone jacks, and the single ended (RCA) passthrough output pair. The volume control has no effect on the passthrough output.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen on Jun 6, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
Correct. The 887 has 3.5mm, 1/4", and 4-pin XLR outputs. There are only XLR and RCA inputs.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Bryce U on Jun 6, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
You are correct. They are outputs for your phones.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Paul l on Jun 6, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Are these good enough for the Audio Technica M50x’s and Hifiman Aryas?
New User U
on Jul 13, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Yes, this is one of the best headphone amps around.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Jul 14, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Yes, this is one of the best headphone amps around.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Jul 14, 2020
I would say yes. I have the Aryas too and this drives them well on the third gain setting. The three gain ranges are a nice feature. I also paired mine with a simple Schitt Loki Mini 4-band equalizer and that really helps every set of phones deliver their full potential.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Rick on Jul 22, 2021
- Purchased on Aug 9, 2020
These are good enough to power any headphone.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- WUKEVIN W on Jul 22, 2021
- Purchased on May 7, 2021
Vote for the best answer above!
My DAC is single ended only. If I run single ended in, does the balanced headphone output still work and if so, does it still provide more power than the single ended headphone output or would it be the same amount of power as the SE output?
A shopper
on Oct 20, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Yes. The Amp can output via the balanced 4-pin XLR output using either the RCA single-ended input or the XLR balanced input. Yes the power output from the XLR output will be more than the SE outputs of the Amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Bryce U on Oct 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes. The Amp can output via the balanced 4-pin XLR output using either the RCA single-ended input or the XLR balanced input. Yes the power output from the XLR output will be more than the SE outputs of the Amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Bryce U on Oct 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
Yes I have 2 DACs and use them together. It is very convenient to switch inputs with button on front. With the same headphones, volume is the same.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Igor D on Oct 20, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
is this amp fully balanced input to output?
Eric F
on Nov 5, 2020
BEST ANSWER: No, it is not fully balanced. It has balanced inputs and XLR output, but the internal circuitry is not balanced.
That being said, it is a fantastic sounding amplifier, especially for the money.
That being said, it is a fantastic sounding amplifier, especially for the money.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Nelson D. C on Nov 5, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 18, 2019
BEST ANSWER: No, it is not fully balanced. It has balanced inputs and XLR output, but the internal circuitry is not balanced.
That being said, it is a fantastic sounding amplifier, especially for the money.
That being said, it is a fantastic sounding amplifier, especially for the money.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Nelson D. C on Nov 5, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 18, 2019
I don't believe it perfectly balanced but it far exceeds anything in its price range performing 2-3X its price.
Check out the detailed audio science review and measurements for the Monoprice 887
Check out the detailed audio science review and measurements for the Monoprice 887
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Naran P on Nov 5, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 19, 2019
"Fully" is open to interpretation. There's a single THX stereo module that works as a bridge to split power to each channel. As far as I'm concerned, it's fully balanced.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- James S on Nov 5, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 14, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
If I use single-ended inputs with the balanced output, would the overall specs be the same as if I were using the balanced inputs? If so, what is the advantage of using balanced inputs and balanced outputs?
A shopper
on Dec 3, 2021
BEST ANSWER: I can’t comment on whether the “overall specs” will be the same, because I have not done any measurements on this amp, but you can check out the Audioscience Review website for their measurements (which are excellent for this amp). Theoretically, using the balanced inputs is more important than using the balanced outputs, unless you have very power hungry headphones that need the extra power from the balanced outputs. This is because the input signals are lower in level and are more susceptible to noise. In the end, it’s what you hear that matters, and I don’t think you will be disappointed.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- ALEXANDER G on Dec 4, 2021
- Purchased on Jun 28, 2021
BEST ANSWER: I can’t comment on whether the “overall specs” will be the same, because I have not done any measurements on this amp, but you can check out the Audioscience Review website for their measurements (which are excellent for this amp). Theoretically, using the balanced inputs is more important than using the balanced outputs, unless you have very power hungry headphones that need the extra power from the balanced outputs. This is because the input signals are lower in level and are more susceptible to noise. In the end, it’s what you hear that matters, and I don’t think you will be disappointed.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- ALEXANDER G on Dec 4, 2021
- Purchased on Jun 28, 2021
I can't give it to you in electrical terms, but if I were going to go balanced from say my external DAC to my amp, I would also get a balanced cable for my cans. And that's what I'm about to do myself. If you're not going to go balanced all the way, I wouldn't do any balanced connections. I run SPDIF via Toslink from my PC card to my DAC. My DAC has balanced and unbalanced outputs. Right now I'm just some RCA cables to the amp and a 1/4" jack to my cans. I'm about to get balanced cables to replace the RCA and the headphone connection. I'm going to get mine from Periapt Cables.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- William S on Dec 4, 2021
- Purchased on Jul 17, 2021
It’s my understanding that the amp isn’t fully balanced in-out so I don’t think it makes much difference.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- B E on Dec 3, 2021
- Purchased on May 13, 2021
Vote for the best answer above!
Can I leave the XLR to 4.4 adapter connected with no jack connected, while I connect a 3.5 headphone to listen music? Or should I remove the adapter?
New User U
on Aug 30, 2022
BEST ANSWER: Yes. All three outputs work simultaneously. Plugging one doesn’t mute the others.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Peter N on Aug 30, 2022
- Purchased on Aug 14, 2022
BEST ANSWER: Yes. All three outputs work simultaneously. Plugging one doesn’t mute the others.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Peter N on Aug 30, 2022
- Purchased on Aug 14, 2022
Might be best to remove as not doing so might reduce power to that active pair of headphones. When I remove my headphones, there is a relay that resets each time.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- BOBBY B on Aug 30, 2022
- Purchased on Aug 19, 2022
All of the front panel outputs are active simultaneously. I leave my four pin to 2.5mm adaptor plugged in while using the 1/4” or 3.5mm jacks without issue.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen C on Aug 30, 2022
- Purchased on Aug 17, 2022
Vote for the best answer above!
If I connect a Dongle DAC (also amplify) via rca inputs, does the double amp damage the THX amp and/or headphones?
New User U
on Nov 29, 2022
BEST ANSWER: No, but you will need to set the volume on the DAC/Amp so it doesn't clip. This is not the best idea if you are pursuing good sound reproduction. You should just utilize a DAC.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Nov 29, 2022
BEST ANSWER: No, but you will need to set the volume on the DAC/Amp so it doesn't clip. This is not the best idea if you are pursuing good sound reproduction. You should just utilize a DAC.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Nov 29, 2022
the dac needs to send its unamplified analogue out to the amp.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael H Hennessy, P on Nov 30, 2022
- Purchased on Aug 28, 2022
yes do NOT do this
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Michael H Hennessy, P on Nov 30, 2022
- Purchased on Aug 28, 2022
Vote for the best answer above!
What's the dimensions and weight?
A shopper
on Sep 10, 2019
BEST ANSWER: 8.66"W x 8.15"D x 1.97"H Approx 3.5lbs
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Sep 10, 2019
BEST ANSWER: 8.66"W x 8.15"D x 1.97"H Approx 3.5lbs
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Sep 10, 2019
I put the measurements at the end of the review thread on Audio Science Review.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Amir M on Sep 10, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Can this be used as a pre amp with active speakers?
F R
on Sep 10, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, you can use the unbalanced pass through output to the active speaker.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Sep 10, 2019
Pass Through means volume is not adjustable?
- Reply
- New User U on Nov 14, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, you can use the unbalanced pass through output to the active speaker.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Sep 10, 2019
Pass Through means volume is not adjustable?
- Reply
- New User U on Nov 14, 2019
No, it doesn't function as a proper preamp with volume control. The previous user answered incorrectly. You can only passthrough the RCA signal, but you would still need a proper preamp for active speakers.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Andrew G on Jul 13, 2020
- Purchased on Nov 13, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Are the full specification out yet since they are not on this page?
A shopper
on Sep 13, 2019
Thank you for your question.
There would be specs available once the item is available for sale.
There would be specs available once the item is available for sale.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Tyler C Staff on Sep 17, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
Noticibly absent from the description is the inclusion of Dirac II which the desktop 789 dac amp includes. Is this because the full specs haven't yet been published or because this model won't include this functionality?
A C
on Sep 23, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This model will not have this functionality.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Sep 23, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This model will not have this functionality.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Sep 23, 2019
The 789 does not include dirac. It is amplifier only, Dirac is implemented in DAC
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U on Jun 23, 2020
Vote for the best answer above!
Are there any products in the pipeline that will use a matching chassis to the 887? This is one of the sleekest and best looking chassis I’ve ever seen.
A shopper
on Dec 20, 2019
BEST ANSWER: We have another THX Amp + DAC that is in stock currently that uses the same chassis.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Dec 20, 2019
BEST ANSWER: We have another THX Amp + DAC that is in stock currently that uses the same chassis.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Dec 20, 2019
Don't know, there's enough room for DAC. If they can come close to or tie the measured performance of the ESS9038pro based Matrix XSabre Pro MQA DAC than I would buy that combo for my computer desk. It's amazing that this $400 hpa ties for 1st place in measured performance of the $3000 Benchmark HPA4!
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Jon C on Dec 20, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 13, 2019
Vote for the best answer above!
balanced SNR in dB?
A shopper
on Feb 26, 2020
BEST ANSWER: I myself have no means of measuring that. I saw a review online that stated the SNR to measure at 123db. I believe Monoprice claims it to be even higher. Another reviewer on YouTube opined that the SNR is so low that the difference between balanced and unbalanced is not audible. I know that with no audio playing I can turn the volume to the maximum and not hear a hint of noise.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert S on Feb 26, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 10, 2020
BEST ANSWER: I myself have no means of measuring that. I saw a review online that stated the SNR to measure at 123db. I believe Monoprice claims it to be even higher. Another reviewer on YouTube opined that the SNR is so low that the difference between balanced and unbalanced is not audible. I know that with no audio playing I can turn the volume to the maximum and not hear a hint of noise.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Robert S on Feb 26, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 10, 2020
It should be around 123 db. Check out the Audio Science Review for more info.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Ben K on Feb 26, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 6, 2020
Vote for the best answer above!
Can I connect my turntable preamp to this headphone amp with rca cables and use the balanced output?
A shopper
on Jul 13, 2020
Vote for the best answer above!
Would Shure SRH1540 sound good with this amp? If so, using balanced output would make any sense? Wouldn't it be an overkill with the power?
Thanks.
Thanks.
A shopper
on Sep 29, 2021
BEST ANSWER: It’s clean and transparent. For the money you won’t find anything like it. I’ve driven headphones worth over $1000 with this and they all sound great.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- B E on Sep 30, 2021
- Purchased on May 13, 2021
BEST ANSWER: It’s clean and transparent. For the money you won’t find anything like it. I’ve driven headphones worth over $1000 with this and they all sound great.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- B E on Sep 30, 2021
- Purchased on May 13, 2021
This amp will be perfect for the Shures. A balanced output shouldn't be necessary since they have 46 ohms of resistance.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Colt V on Sep 30, 2021
- Purchased on Mar 9, 2021
Vote for the best answer above!
Will the Liquid Spark DAC provide correct voltage to the 887?
A shopper
on Nov 3, 2021
BEST ANSWER: I would assume it would. Check the output voltage on the Sparks specification page. Single ended and balanced outputs generally conform to fairly standard output voltages.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- B E on Nov 3, 2021
- Purchased on May 13, 2021
BEST ANSWER: I would assume it would. Check the output voltage on the Sparks specification page. Single ended and balanced outputs generally conform to fairly standard output voltages.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- B E on Nov 3, 2021
- Purchased on May 13, 2021
Vote for the best answer above!
Is there a downloadable manual?
Richard J
on Dec 12, 2021
BEST ANSWER: No, there is one that I can locate. What I did was use the manual from the next higher model, but besides the operation of the button, the amp is pretty straight forward.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Anton M on Dec 12, 2021
- Purchased on Aug 25, 2021
BEST ANSWER: No, there is one that I can locate. What I did was use the manual from the next higher model, but besides the operation of the button, the amp is pretty straight forward.
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Anton M on Dec 12, 2021
- Purchased on Aug 25, 2021
Vote for the best answer above!
Questions For Similar Products
Reviews
4.9 / 5.0
78 Reviews
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Star
71
5
1
1
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Just what I wanted
Amazing sound and price was perfect! Paired with a D10 balanced dac
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 5 out of 5
Outstanding
Pushes pretty much any headphone you have on your tree. Excellent build quality, features and most importantly, un-distorted and crisp sound with very good bass punch. Highly recommended.
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 5 out of 5
Exceptional performance for the price, good build quality
THX AAA 887. Fit and finish is great for a product at this price point. The volume knob rotates smoothly and the gain knob has a solid feel when switching between the -4, +6, +16 dB options, plenty of gain for all types of headphones. I painted in the position markings on the VC & gain knobs using a 1mm fine tip white acrylic permanent marker.
I can confirm THX?s claim of very low distortion, there is no audible background noise. This amp just gets out of the way of the music. I?m using the balanced inputs and four pin balanced output and am hearing multiple layers of detail that I haven?t heard before on recordings I am very familiar with. Exceptional imaging, presence, and sound staging. My audio source is Tidal via Roon.
At its price point I would definitely recommend the THX 887 especially if this is your first HP amp. It probably sounds better than other more expensive options and has balanced in/out, 3 gain settings, 3yr warranty, and a 45 day return policy.
I can confirm THX?s claim of very low distortion, there is no audible background noise. This amp just gets out of the way of the music. I?m using the balanced inputs and four pin balanced output and am hearing multiple layers of detail that I haven?t heard before on recordings I am very familiar with. Exceptional imaging, presence, and sound staging. My audio source is Tidal via Roon.
At its price point I would definitely recommend the THX 887 especially if this is your first HP amp. It probably sounds better than other more expensive options and has balanced in/out, 3 gain settings, 3yr warranty, and a 45 day return policy.
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 5 out of 5
top notch!
Excellent amp - clean power, great sound!
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 5 out of 5
Monolith is a solid amp.
Great amp. Love that it has 4-pin XLR, 1/4", and 3.5mm, along with three different gain levels. Volume knob is nice, though it should have a more visible mark or notch to show how far the dial is turned (in dark settings it can't be seen at all). Input button is good and power button is decent. Overall it's a solid product.
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 5 out of 5
Exceptional sound quality and power for the price!
This amp has a way of presenting things with clarity. The bass is clean and impactful. Has plenty of power. Runs my 600 ohm akg k240 sextett with ease when feeding the amp with a balanced connection. I love to use it for gaming, watching movies, or if I really want to get lost in the details of music. I do like the A90 for a more neutral and flat sound profile which is why I have both. Plus the A90 sits perfectly on top of it. What a pair. I wouldn?t trade either of them. All comes down to preference but I love having the option to listen to either. The THX AAA 887 is an amazing amp and for the price you really can?t get anything better. Be a legend and buy it you won?t be disappointed.
- Was this review helpful? Yes (1) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (1) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 4 out of 5
Distortion at low volumes, but good sound quality
I have a bit of disortion out of the left channel, however it is only noticeable at high volumes. Overall as someone with little experience with headphone amps, the difference in quality between my headphones (M1570s) is quite noticeable. The distortion is annoying though.
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (2)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (2)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 5 out of 5
Great amp
Incredible power and clarity at a great price
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 5 out of 5
powerful headphone amplifier.
Powerful enough to drive Hifiman HE6SE v2. and great to drive Hifiman HE 560 v4 , sundara and deva pro.
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (0) No (0)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Rated 2 out of 5
Sounds great, quality control on finish poor.
I liked the sound, but the external quality control was not good at all. Thus the reason I returned the item.
- Was this review helpful? Yes (2) No (3)
- Flag as Inappropriate
- Was this review helpful? Yes (2) No (3)
- Flag as Inappropriate
Reviews for Similar Products