Are Headphones With an Amp Better for Gaming?

Edmund_McGowan · August 23

Today we’re amped to be talking about headphone amplifiers, or headphone amps as they’re more commonly known. For many gamers, a headphone amp is a piece of kit that, perhaps, you didn’t know you needed. In certain game genres, notably horror and FPS, audio forms a core component of the gameplay and narrative. Your success relies just as much upon how you react to what you hear, as to what you see.

So, for gamers who demand the utmost accuracy and detail in what they hear, a headphone amp is a must. Read on to discover all you need to know about headphone amps and how they enhance audio quality, as well as how headphones with an amp compare to standard gaming headphones.

What is a headphone amp?

Let’s clear up this existential question before getting into the nitty gritty of ohms, amps and audio performance! In common with other amps, a headphone amp is an electronic device that increases the amplitude of electrical signals. Let’s clarify: amplitude has nothing to do with amperes, or amps, it is simply the relative strength of sound waves, or transmitted vibrations, which humans and other animals perceive as volume, or loudness.

Headphones require a certain degree of loudness to function correctly. Headphone amps “drive” headphones, meaning that they deliver the required electrical power to produce high-quality sound, regardless of how high you push the volume levels. Paired with high-impedance headphones (headphones that need more power to reach optimal sound output), headphone amps provide improved audio performance, clarity and dynamic range.

How does an amp enhance audio quality?

This is a slightly tricky question, as headphone amps definitely improve audio quality, but not for every set of headphones. Low-impedance headphones can be driven sufficiently by built in amps in laptops, desktops and smartphones. If you have a pair of high-impedance headphones, however, an amp is necessary for them to attain their true potential.

An amp enhances the audio quality by providing enough juice (power) for them to reach optimal sound levels without compromising on sound quality. This means clean, accurate, strong audio signal with ample bass and reduced distortion: high-fidelity sound.

How do standard gaming headphones compare with amped headphones?

Audio quality: While regular gaming headphones deliver ample audio quality for gaming adventures, amped headphones provide a richer, clearer, more detailed soundscape for a truly immersive experience. A dedicated headphone amp ensures cleaner amplification compared to the built-in amps in laptops, etc that standard gaming headphones rely on.
Loudness: Or volume, depending on how you perceive it is delivered without a side order of distortion via a headphone amp. Without the amp, high-impedance headphone audio may be too quiet and thin. Standard gaming headphones will deliver acceptable sound at lower levels, but may struggle with distortion at higher output levels, resulting in a loss of sound quality.
Dynamic range: This is the difference between the quietest and loudest sounds that a device can deliver. Standard gaming headphones have limited dynamic range, while the increased power of a headphone amp equals increased dynamic range. This means that the subtleties and details in the audio can come to the fore.
Cost and quality: Standard gaming headphones are generally more affordable than amped headphones, offering an accessible, entry-level sound solution. Quality wise, standard gaming headphones are often made with lighter, comfort-focussed materials, while amped headphones are constructed with premium materials for durability as well as comfort.

What benefits does a headphone amp offer to gamers?

Let’s answer the burning question: are headphones with an amp better for gaming? Headphones amps are a pretty niche field, mostly catering to audio aficionados and sound purists, as well as professionals like sound engineers and music producers. You might be wondering how does this nicheism cross over into your missions in Urzikstan in Call of Duty: Warzone, for example?

Headphone amps provide improved sound quality, which aside from simply sounding better, provides clearer audio details and separation of in-game sounds. Furthermore, the increased dynamic range lets you detect the subtlest of audio cues, like a twig snapping, birdsong, or the faraway crackle of an enemy’s radio interference. Think of these improvements as sensory enhancements to your gaming that can improve your in-game performance. For competitive and leisure gamers alike, headphone amps undeniably increase the immersivity of the games you play.

How do I know if I need an amp?

First, go ahead and check the tech-specs of your headphones. If they have an impedance above 50 ohms, a headphone amp is a necessity. If your headphones have an impedance under 32 ohms, then they’ll probably work fine without an additional headphone amp. Headphone amps only work with analog (wired) headphones, so if you’re rocking a pair of Bluetooth headphones, then you certainly don’t need a headphone amp.

Recommended amps to pair with my headphones?

There are all sorts of headphone amps on the market to suit every budget. Here we’ve selected three solid, mission-proven amps worth checking out in the circa $100, $200, and $400 price range.

Qudelix-5K

This is a headphone amp that hides a multitude of functions beneath its understated anti-scratch UV coating. In addition to plugging in 3.5mm or 2.5mm analog audio headphones, the Qudelix-5K functions as a USB-C to analog audio out dongle, and as a Bluetooth receiver (outputting analog audio). With its handy 5K mobile app, the Qudelix-5K allows complete customization of your soundscape. This is an affordable ($109.98 at time of writing) device that simply delivers stunning sound quality, powerful drive and 6-20 hours streaming battery life. Here’s a review if you’re curious about the Qudelix-5K.

Topping DX3 Pro+

The Topping DX3 Pro+ is a $199.99 silver beauty that’s ready to pair with power hungry high impedance headphones. Featuring a sweet pre-amp function, this amp is also prepared to adapt to different usage scenarios with 4 output modes: Headphone Amp, Headphone Amp+ Line out, DAC, and Pre amplifier. With simple plug-and-play setup, you’ll be experiencing clean, powerful sound thanks to the DX3’s optimized NFCA circuit, delivering ultra low noise and distortion. This model also supports Bluetooth headphone amp and Bluetooth DAC applications. According to this review the Topping DC3 Pro+ is the best DACAMP in the $200 range, watch for yourself to find out why.

JDS LABS Element III MK2

If you’re ready to drop $449 to pump up the jam and experience gaming audio like never before, then the reimagined flagship amp+DAC from JDS LABS may well be your cup of audio tea. Designed and built in the USA, JDS LABS Element III MK2 is a complex device that simplifies your immersive audio experience. Featuring automatic gain and an auto-vanishing display, take full control of your sound and toggle between USB and optical inputs and headphone or preamp outputs. If you’re looking for ultimate power in a headphone amp, then Element III has +/-15VDC rails and continuous clean power, capable of driving headphone sounds to extraordinary levels. According to Audiophile Heaven’s informative review, this amp is simple, yet brilliant, check out the link above to get the full story.

The takeaway

We hope you’ve enjoyed today’s mission into the realm of headphone amps. If you’re a serious gamer striving for ultimate performance, then sound is something that you cannot afford to neglect. Headphones with an amp deliver multiple benefits to gamers, including increased immersivity, and overall audio quality. The crux of the matter lies in the competitive edge that a decent headphone amp can give you. By delivering clearer audio details and separation of in-game sounds you’ll be able to get the drop on your enemies, near and far.

Check out a headphone amp for your high impedance headphones today, and see how far the soundscape can take you. If you’re looking for a decent headset for your gaming adventures, be sure to check out the Acer Predator Galea family. With five gaming headsets to choose from, there’s a headset to meet every budget and set of gaming needs.