V-MODA VAMP Headphone Amplifier (150mW x 2), DAC, Battery Pack for iPhone 4/4S

by V-Moda

• Integrated Headphone Amplifier (150mW x 2) for the iPhone 4/4S
• Digital to Analog Convertor (DAC) bypasses iPhone's analog output for pure analog performance
• Two selectable audio processing modes Pure and VQ
• 2200 mAh battery doubles iPhone battery life
• Aircraft-grade brushed metal and shock-absorbing silicone protects the iPhone from impact, scratches and dents

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 0.9 x 2.5 x 5 inches ; 5 ounces
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B008801ZFS
• Item model number: VAMP
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank:
  • #49 in Electronics > Accessories & Supplies > Audio & Video Accessories > Headphone Accessories > Amps
• Date first available at Amazon.com: May 30, 2012

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

See music in a new light. Her Master's VAMP. Satisfaction Guaranteed One-Year Warranty - each VAMP purchased from V-MODA.com or any of our Verified Dealers is backed by an unrivaled 1-Year V-MODA Premier Warranty. Hex design/utility, product, drivers, packaging and accessories are patented or patent pending.

VAMP Integrated Headphone Amp, DAC and Battery Pack for iPhone® 4/4S Spy-worthy gadget for the modern audio connoisseur ushers in a new era of pure sound, sophistication and power. VAMP features a 150mW x 2 amplifier, dedicated pure Digital-Analog-Convertor, VQ audio enhancements, optical audio output and backup battery all integrated into a solid metal case that transforms an ordinary iPhone 4/4S into a sophisticated and stylish high fidelity device. Powerful Amplifier A 150mW x 2 amplifier bypasses the iPhone's internal amp designed for smaller ear buds and provides optimal power to drive even the most demanding headphones. VAMP's rotary volume knob allows you to finely adjust the volume and its hi/lo gain switch adjusts the output level to match the power required for both low and high-impedance headphones. High-impedance headphones and professional / studio headphones require or benefit significantly from a headphone amplifier. Pure Dedicated Digital to Analog Convertor VAMP's dedicated DAC extracts the iPhone's digital output and converts it into its analog form for the purest and unparalleled audio listening experience. Audio Enhancements VAMP offers two, selectable, audio modes for the discerning audiophile. PURE mode (red light) outputs audio in its original form VQ mode (green light) adds a slight spatial 3D soundstage, tightened bass and increased treble attack that invigorates an all around sensory experience Optical Audio Output A SPDIF/Toslink digital audio output transforms the iPhone into a high fidelity source (optical cable sold separately). Maximum Battery Vitality A colossal 2200mAh lithium-ion battery provides up to 8 hours of playback. In a flick of a switch, the battery can serve as a backup power source and double the iPhone's battery life. Metal Protective Case Aircraft-grade brushed metal and shock absorbing silicone shields the iPhone from dents, breaks and scratches. Integrating precision professional-grade components and unique audio processing technology into a high tech device, the VAMP is the ultimate gadget for mobile audiophiles around the world. What the Critics are Saying About the VAMP Headphone Amp "For the audio connoisseur, the VAMP is a great device" -New York Times "the only high-performance portable that integrates so seamlessly with the iPhone" -Sound + Vision Magazine "putting the VAMP on your iPhone is like watching it change into its superhero audio costume. There's nothing quite like it" -Popular Science "for the finest sound possible from your iPhone, V-MODA has a new accessory [VAMP]" -Engadget "Improves the quality and power of sound" - 6 Cutting Edge Gadgets, Inc.com "a headphone amplifier and battery backup is essential gear for the modern audio connoisseur" -Head-Fi Founder, Jude Specifications Made in Japan Power: 150 + 150mW (@32 Ohms) Battery: 2200mAh Lithium-Ion w/ over-charge protection circuit Signal to Noise Ratio: > 95dB Distortion: < 0.04% (@10mW) Headphone Resistance Compatibility: > 16 Ohms Smartphone Compatibility: iPhone 4; iPhone 4S Warranty: one year V-MODA premier warranty Accessories: USB Cable Weight: 135g Compatibility: iPhone 4; iPhone 4S Which V-MODA Headphone is for You?   M-80 Crossfade LP2 Crossfade LP Type On-Ear Over-Ear Over-Ear Sound Signature M Class for "Modiophile" LP Class for "Live Play" LP Class for "Live Play" Character balanced, precision bass, vivid mids, crystal clear highs, 3D sound stage refined vibrant bass, vivid mids, vivacious highs, 3D sound stage vibrant bass, vivid mids, vivacious highs, 3D sound stage Driver 40mm Dual-Diaphragm 50mm Dual-Diaphragm 50mm Dual-Diaphragm Passive Noise Isolation Weight 200g 260g 260g Kevlar® Reinforced Cables • 3-Button SpeakEasy mic cable • 1-Button SpeakEasy mic cable • 3-Button mic cable • Audio Only cable • 3-Button mic cable • Audio Only cable Customization gunmetal shields included View / Compare the entire V-MODA Product Line

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Product Description

Amplify your inner audiophile and make your iPhone unique via VAMP. V-MODA's headphone AMP, DAC, metal casing and battery pack transforms the iPhone 4/4S into the ultimate spy-worthy gadget. The VAMP incorporates a 150mW x 2 amplifier that delivers optimal power to drive even the most power-hungry headphones and pure audio clarity for headphones of all sizes. VAMP also features a dedicated Digital to Analog Converter processor that bypasses the iPhone's analog output for the ultimate analog sound. Tuned by V-MODA's M-Class team, legendary musicians and Grammy-Award winning producers, the VAMP offers two selectable audio processing modes for the discerning audiophile. The PURE mode processes audio in the truest of forms and the VQ (V-MODA equalizer) mode tightens bass, sharpens the treble attack and adds a 3D sound that makes the music feel live. VAMP's To slink/SPDIF digital audio output enables the iPhone to double as an audiophile-level source. Powered by a 2200mAh battery, the VAMP functions as a backup power source almost doubling the iPhone's battery life. A unique aircraft-grade brushed metal exterior and shock-absorbing silicone protects the iPhone from impact, scratches and dents. VAMP is essential gear for the modern audio connoisseur to stand out from the crowd.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

23 of 26 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars $600 DAP for iPhone from Hollywood June 23, 2012

By Songmic

I was one of, if not the first to order the VAMP through V-MODA's official website once it was put up for sale after months of rumors, speculations and advertisements. Featurewise, VAMP is a very unique product in many ways, and I'd like to discuss its functions and capabilities compared to other portable DAC's, amps, or DAC/amps before sharing my impressions.

First of all, VAMP is a portable DAC/amp for the iPhone 4/4S, but that doesn't mean its usage is strictly limited to an iPhone 4/4S. Although they won't fit into VAMP's case physically, you can also use other iDevices such as an iPod (including iTouch), iPhone 3GS, or iPad by with VAMP via a sync extension LOD (line out dock) cable . Of course, VAMP should still be used primarily with an iPhone 4/4S as it was meant to be for maximum comfort and portability. So if you don't own an iPhone 4/4S and isn't planning to get one, then VAMP will serve you little or no purpose.

VAMP is special in a way that it bypasses the in-built DAC of iDevices and utilizes its own DAC for better hi-fi performance. As far as I know, there are only three other portable devices capable of this feature: Cypher Labs Algorithm Solo (DAC only), Fostex HP-P1 (DAC/amp), and VentureCraft Go-DAP (the model which VAMP was based on). Most so-called DAC/amps, such as Fiio E17, aren't capable of this, because the ability to take the pure digital data out of an iDevice through LOD costs the product Apple's license fee. That explains why gears like HP-P1 or VAMP are a lot more expensive than other portable DAC/amps.

To summarize VAMP's functions:
#1. A solid case for iPhone 4/4S, protecting it from scratches (although it would break my heart to see my VAMP damaged instead)
#2. Extra battery for an iDevice, doubling its life
#3.... Takes pure digital audio data out of an iDevice via LOD
#4. Outputs digital data from #3 via mini-Toslink optical S/PDIF (fixed to 48 kHz) with digital-digital coversion to another DAC, effectively serving as an iDevice dock
#5. Converts digital data from #3 to analog signal via VAMP's in-built DAC, amplified through VAMP's headphone amp section with volume control and 3.5 mm headphone out
#6. An equalizer function (aptly named VQ mode) which enlarges 3D soundstage and add some bass to music, making some closed-sounding or bass-weak recordings more enjoyable... YMMV.

FYI, VAMP is a fully upgraded, uber version of the Japanese company VentureCraft's Go-DAP Unit 4.0. So it's made in Japan, but should be overall better than the default Go-DAP, at least in theory.

Before actually reviewing the VAMP, some caveats and disclaimers: this is the first time I'm doing a full review for an audio component, so please excuse my bad writing. This is a subjective review, after all, and my ears aren't really the best measurement tools. Also, VAMP happens to be the first portable amp - or DAC/amp, for that matter - that I've bought, so I didn't have much opportunity to compare it to other similar products. For the sake of review, however, I was able to borrow a Fiio E17 and a Hifiman HM-801 from a couple headphile friends. I wish I could've compared it to something like a Fostex HP-P1 to level the playing field, but unfortunately I couldn't find one around. So without further ado, let's get down to it.

UNBOXING, DESIGN & BUILD QUALITY

The VAMP arrived in a sleek box like most V-MODA products. You can check out Val Kolton's (owner of V-MODA) cool unboxing video of VAMP, which involves boats and choppers and other gimmicks. Included in the box were VAMP itself, a mini-USB to USB cable, and a user-friendly instruction manual. The USB cable can be used to charge VAMP alone, both VAMP and iPhone, or iPhone only. With the latter option, you can also link your iPhone to a computer for streaming data as well.

VAMP looks gorgeous in real life as its pictures are. Snap an iPhone into it, and it makes an awesome-looking combo for portable use. I've carried it around outdoors, and it sure was an attention-grabber for many friends I ran into. As for build quality, it's build like a tank as most V-MODA products are. I was too afraid to test it by dropping it or throwing it around, but it felt very sturdy, almost military-grade. In short, build quality is top-notch.

Overall, with nearly double the thickness and weight of an iPhone alone, the iPhone/VAMP combo looks like a badass iPhone on steroids.

SOUND QUALITY

I mainly used my Crossfade M-80 (V-MODA's current flagship headphones, soon to be replaced by M-100 over-ear headphones) for this review, but also an AKG K 550 (on loan) and even my Audez'e LCD-2. I compared VAMP to various portable and desktop gears, including Fiio E17, Hifiman HM-801, and my high-end desktop system costing over $4,000 sans cables. I had a couple music playback softwares for the iPhone, from the default player to the well-received Capriccio and FLAC Player.

Compared to listening directly via my iPhone's headphone out, the improvement from VAMP was significant. I had been slightly worried that I may not hear a lot of difference, for two reasons. One, V-MODA's M-80 is a highly sensitive headphone which can be efficiently driven by anything, even an iPod. Two, some Head-fi'ers have pointed out that the VentureCraft Go-DAP (the model VAMP was based on) didn't make a serious improvement with an M-80. Well, I'm happy to say that my fears turned out wrong, because I was pleasantly surprised by the unprecedented power and liveliness of music coming out of my M-80. There was an extra level of clarity, as if a veil had been lifted from the music, as well as satisfyingly punchy - but not loose, bassy - bass.

I was also impressed by VAMP's VQ mode. In fact, as I spent longer time with VAMP, I found myself using VQ mode more often than the default, neutral-sounding Pure mode, because VQ adds a level of spaciousness and juiciness that makes music more satisfying, at a slight loss of fidelity to the originally recorded material. For some recordings that already sound too spacious, however, using the VQ mode may cause them to sound overly spread out and thin. While I had previously appreciated Capriccio's 3D equalizer feature, using that and VQ mode at the same time made music sound too loose. But then again, it helped with a few songs that sounded too "closed." Your mileage will vary with this one, but it's always a good thing that they're giving us a choice based on our preferences.

I tried using VAMP as a iPhone dock by connecting it to my desktop rig DAC via an optical cable (as I mentioned above, this is fixed to 48 kHz). Compared to my iMac running Pure Music with April Music's Stello U3 converting asynchronous USB to coaxial S/PDIF, I knew it couldn't be a fair comparison. As it turned out, VAMP as an iPhone dock sounded flat compared to my dedicated Mac-based transport. But honestly, the difference wasn't that huge, and when I used the default iTunes instead of Pure Music to level the playing field, the gap was lessened. I'm not sure if many people would actually use VAMP as an iPhone dock, but it doesn't hurt to have an extra feature. In fact, if I had already had an iPhone dock like VAMP, I probably wouldn't have bought another computer that costs a lot more.

Compared to sub-$200 Fiio E17, the $600 VAMP was downright superior in many ways. The Fiio E17 can't even take advantage of its own DAC when using with an iPhone, so it wasn't really a fair game from the start. The best way I could think of to A/B these two was iMac/E17 vs. iPhone/VAMP. While both rigs boasted decent clarity, the latter combo sounded more immediate, forward, and stronger in bass punch. VAMP wins, hands down.

Vs. Hifiman's HM-801, this was a rather difficult comparison. HM-801 is more expensive than VAMP alone, but the iPhone/VAMP combo could cost more depending on the contract with your mobile company. In terms of outdoor convenience, the VAMP clearly wins because it holds both a cell phone and a DAP (digital audio player) in one box, whereas HM-801 is only a DAP and you'd have to carry a separate phone. Sound quality-wise, I cannot say that one is clearly superior to another; they simply sounded different. VAMP sounds forward, energetic, and juicy while HM-801 sounds laid-back, sweet, and spacious. Overall, when it came to fast-paced music like mainstream pop or rock, VAMP was my favorite, while I liked HM-801's presentation of more audiophile-oriented music like classic and jazz. As a college student, I listen to more mainstream music outdoors, so I ultimately preferred VAMP to HM-801. I guess it all depends on your musical tastes.

Now, compared to my main desktop rig... there was no comparison, really. I'm not saying that VAMP was vastly inferior to a multi-thousand dollar system, it's just that VAMP and my desktop amp, Schiit Lyr (with upgraded tubes), were meant to drive entirely different headphones from the start. Lyr is a high power hybrid amp designed to drive low-sensitivity, hard-to-drive headphones such as orthodynamics from Audez'e or Hifiman. It's what I've been using to drive my planar magnetic Audez'e LCD-2 for several months. Still, I plugged the M-80 into Schiit Lyr and let the music flow... only to realize my 6 watts at 32 ohm per channel amp was overkill for such highly sensitive cans, and even made hissing noises.

This time, I plugged the LCD-2 into VAMP too see the how far VAMP's potential goes. As expected, I felt VAMP slightly lacked sufficient power to drive the LCD-2 to its fullest, in contrast to the monstrously powerful Lyr. Even so, the relatively high sensitivity of LCD-2 - for an orthodynamic headphone, that is - made it possible to enjoy it with rather favorable results. I forgot to mention above, but the VAMP has two gain settings you can toggle with a simple tool. While M-80 sounded pleasant enough with low gain, the LCD-2 noticeably benefited from high gain setting. But then again, LCD-2 is a full-sized headphone weighing over a pound, so I don't think a lot of people would bring their LCD-2's outdoors. For most portable headphones VAMP was intended for, I think low gain setting is good enough.

The other headphones I've tried with VAMP was AKG's K702 and K550, the latter of which was released less than a year ago. The K550, albeit less expensive than the K702, was better than K702 in many regards and I personally consider it AKG's new flagship model. What I didn't like about the K550 was that it somewhat lacked PRaT (pace, rhythm, and timing) factor, otherwise it would've worked well with mainstream music. However, the VAMP makes up for its shortcomings by boosting its bass and overall energy. While I still prefer M-80 (and possibly, the M-100 in the near future) for mainstream pop and rock, the K550/VAMP turned out to be a great all-around player that excels in nearly all genres of music. The K550 is light and comfortable enough to be carried outdoors for portable use, so the K550/VAMP would make a decent portable rig for most people.

VALUE

Now, as for VAMP's overall value... is it really worth $600? Even if you are an iPhone 4/4S user - otherwise you'd have no business with VAMP and won't have read this far - is the price tag of $600 at justifiable for everything it does? Strictly from an iPhone 4/4S owner's point of view?

My answer is yes and no.

Yes, because it is a "portable" DAC that actually bypasses iDevice's in-built DAC circuitry, a decent headphone amp with high-low gain and equalizer settings, and an iPhone dock. Considering all that it does at a cheaper price than Fostex HP-P1 and HM-801, and being a lot more versatile and multi-featured than CLAS which is slightly less expensive, I think it's a great deal value-wise.

And no, because VAMP is not completely future-proof. I purchased my iPhone 4S some months ago, and I'm sure I'll stick to it for the next couple years, but what happens after that? I'll have to change my cell phone one way or another someday, and by then VAMP would have become obsolete. But by obsolete I mean obsolete for sales, as I'll still be using iPhone 4S/VAMP combo as a dedicated DAP.

Think about it, there are already many people out there who carry both their cell phone and a dedicated DAP like HM-801 or Colorfly. VAMP was designed as a product for the present, but even after iPhone 4S gets discontinued in the future, why not continue to use it as my main portable rig? The only edge it will lose after several years is its convenience factor, because once I get a new phone I'll have to carry two devices at once.

VERDICT

Overall, the VAMP is an awesome gizmo for an iPhone 4/4S users with excellent build, design, and sound quality with a set of decent features one can hope to get from such a small, portable device. The price tag of $600 may seem questionable for some, but I believe it's justified considering everything it does and does well. Of course, VAMP is a niche product that may be discontinued once iPhone 4S is discontinued in the future, but that doesn't mean you can't continue to use it as a dedicated DAP for outdoor activities. For now, I'm really happy with my new toy. Kudos to V-MODA for coming up with such a kick-ass device! Read more ›

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Exceptional amp for the iPhone 4S December 27, 2012

By Inspired Imaging

Amazon Verified Purchase

The other reviews have been very comprehensive, so just a few small points to add...

The Vamp drives my HD650 and HD700 headphones to perfection. The VQ setting is particularly good for the HD650 to tighten the bass and "brighten" them up a bit. Really wonderful sound!

After reading some comparisons between this and the Go-Dap GD04, I found out that this is essentially the upgraded GD04 with OPA1622 opamp. Not sure about the other components, but the opamp is awesome. I also have an upgraded iBasso D4 with topflight kit and OPA1622 and they are VERY similar. Overall, the Vamp represents a great value.

Although only the iPhone 4/4S will fit in the case, a 30pin extension cable can be used to connect the Vamp to almost any iPod/iPhone/iPad made after the iPod classic. I haven't tried that out yet, but will update this review if that turns out to not be the case. There are 4 screws holding the phone casing on, so it looks like you could even remove that and put together your own case if you wanted.

Edit 1/9/13 - I sent my Vamp back for the firmware update and had to fall back on my iBasso D4 connected to an iPad with the camera connection kit. Using the upgraded OPA1622, I'm sorry to say that I was wrong- there is a noticeable difference between it and the Vamp. In short, the Vamp is clearer, has better bass presence, and a wider and more transparent sound stage. So, especially with my Hd650, the Vamp is the clear winner. I only sent it back in yesterday and I already miss it.

I also had the opportunity to test it with a 30pin extension cable. iPad, iPod touch, and iPhones were all fine. 160gb iPod classic did not charge nor play. So, this really will work with any of the newer "touch screen" I-devices, but not the classics.... That's unfortunate. I believe that the go-dap v3 (made for the 3GS) might work with the classic, as it seems to NOT pass a digital signal, but uses the line out in the 30pin connector instead. The sound quality wouldn't be as high as the Vamp, but would still be better than many ipod& combinations.

Still highly recommended!

Update 1/20/13
Received it back from V-Moda with the firmware update in about 1 week round trip. It now functions as it should for charging (as I would expect). I also just added a pair of HifiMan HE-500 orthos. It drives them beautifully with solid and detailed/textured bass. Good soundstage and the VQ mode adds some nice sparkle. Great combo! Read more ›

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars Must own for any audiophile with an Iphone 4/4S December 20, 2012

By Craigster

Amazon Verified Purchase

I am an Iphone 4 owner who also loves music and does 95% of my listening on the go. I had my eye on Vamp but wasn't willing to invest $600+ for even such a unique product as this. Now that the pricing has come down since the Iphone 4/4S has been replaced and V-Moda has a new universal DAC amp coming up, the value finally exceeded the cost for me and I took the plunge.

One note- since the upgrade to OS6, Vamp requires a firmware update done at V-Moda to fix some glitches that arose as a result of the Apple software update (not an issue with Vamp). Their customer service department has been fantastic and is taking care of the upgrade including paying shipping both ways.

Rather than a lengthy review, I will just say Vamp is an amazing product for anyone who appreciates a quality listening experience and needs something portable to pair with their Iphone 4/4S. My phone fits perfectly inside to form one cohesive unit. Every control is just as easily accessible as if Vamp wasn't attached. I previously used a headphone amp which required cords, rubber bands, etc. and was a mess. I even tried double-amping to improve the sound with a FiiO amp and ZO2. I thought this combo sounded great until I tried Vamp. I was a skeptic regarding the improvement provided by a premium amp, but V-Moda proved me wrong. With my V-Moda M-100 they work in concert producing the best portable amp/headphone combo I ever heard that can rival many home setups. There are two sound modes- Pure and VQ with Pure being more of a flat or audiophile setting and VQ with more of a "v-curve" for boosted bass and treble. The sound is so dynamic and detailed across the spectrum, I actually prefer Pure mode with the M-100. Owners of darker headphones may prefer VQ.... In Pure mode, bass is powerful and incredibly deep without being overbearing; mids are more forward and highly detailed, as if the artist is performing in front of me and highs are well extended and crisp, but never harsh or sibilant.

Of course, Vamp is much more than just an amp with DAC as indicated in the product description since it also protects and charges my Iphone. I can't imagine ever removing my Iphone from Vamp as they have a symbiotic relationship as far as I am concerned. I have been in search of sonic perfection for the past year as I spend more time listening to music on the go and I believe I have found it with Vamp and my M-100.

Updated 3/2/13: now that I have spent quite a bit of time with Vamp, I did want to mention that battery life is shorter than I would like and certainly shorter than specs by almost half. Also, I sometimes run Vamp near full volume and believe it should have more power so that the amp is not "straining" to reach high volume. At $200, I feel Vamp is a great value and really enjoy the improvement in sound quality. At the full price of $600, I would not have been satisfied. Read more ›