Sparkos Gemini Headphone Amp

HiFi, DAC
Sparkos Gemini Headphone Amp

Introduction

The Sparkos Labs Gemini is a hybrid tube headphone amplifier and preamplifier. It blends the lush character of a tube input stage with the clean, powerful output of Sparkos’ discrete solid-state op‑amp stage. Priced around $995, the Gemini sits in the “upper‑mid” tier of headphone amps: not entry level, but far from the price extremes of boutique high‑end gear.

Build & Design

  • Chassis & Controls: Solid, well-machined casework with a high-quality Alps “Blue Velvet” volume pot.
  • Power Stage: Discrete Sparkos SS2590 op‑amps and discrete voltage regulators.
  • Output Impedance: Extremely low (~0.25Ω) for excellent control of headphones.
  • Inputs & Outputs:
    • Headphone outputs: 6.3mm (¼″) TRS and 4‑pin XLR.
    • RCA preamp outputs for speaker use.
  • Customizability: Tube‑rolling supported (e.g. 6922, ECC88 types), two gain levels, internal jumper‑set bias adjustment.
  • Design Highlights: No coupling capacitors in the signal path, no global feedback, and a tube warm‑up delay for protection.

Features

  • Works as both headphone amp and preamp.
  • Switchable gain and bias settings.
  • Tube-rolling for different sonic flavors.
  • Low noise floor, even with sensitive headphones (slightly more noticeable on high gain).

Pricing

  • U.S.: $995 MSRP
  • U.K./Europe: Approx. $1,016 (VAT included via dealers like Elise Audio)

This puts it in the “serious enthusiast” category: not entry‑level, but attainable for those investing in high‑quality amplification.

Sound Signature

General Traits:

  • Bass: Deep, powerful, well controlled with authority in sub‑bass.
  • Mids: Smooth, textured, natural, slightly warm.
  • Treble: Laid‑back and forgiving, smooth rather than edgy.
  • Soundstage: Expansive and layered, with strong stereo imaging.
  • Noise: Very low with headphones; slightly more with ultra‑sensitive IEMs at high gain.

Overall, the Gemini offers tube warmth without losing clarity—a balance between lushness and precision.

Pairing With Key Headphones

1. Audeze LCD‑X

  • Strengths: Enhanced bass impact, fuller mids, smooth treble, more musical presentation.
  • Weaknesses: Slight softening of upper treble “air” vs. pure solid‑state amps.
  • Verdict: Excellent match; brings out musicality without losing detail.

2. HiFiMAN Arya

  • Strengths: Powerful control of planars, enriched bass, preserved soundstage depth.
  • Weaknesses: Can slightly smooth treble; less “snap” than ultra‑fast solid‑state amps.
  • Verdict: Strong pairing; adds body while keeping Arya’s openness intact.

3. Sennheiser HD 800S

  • Strengths: Smooths treble harshness, adds midrange weight, keeps wide stage.
  • Weaknesses: Slightly reduces “analytical sparkle”; not as sharp as neutral SS amps.
  • Verdict: Great if you find the HD 800S too bright—warms it up pleasantly.

Comparative Summary

Headphone Strengths Trade‑offs
LCD‑X More body and warmth, enhanced bass, smooth treble Loses a little top‑end sparkle
Arya Good power, deeper bass, preserved space Slightly less crisp transients
HD 800S Tames brightness, fuller mids, natural stage Less airy detail, some warmth added

Who Should Buy It?

A good fit if you:

  • Want tube flavor but still crave precision.
  • Like the option to tweak via tubes, bias, and gain.
  • Have demanding planar headphones or the HD 800S and want a smoother balance.
  • Use both headphones and speakers (thanks to preamp outputs).

Maybe look elsewhere if you:

  • Prefer clinical neutrality and maximum treble sparkle.
  • Don’t want to tweak or maintain tubes.
  • Want a budget-friendly option under $500.

Final Thoughts

The Sparkos Gemini is one of the most compelling hybrid amps near the $1,000 mark. It delivers warmth, power, and refinement without drifting into overly syrupy territory. With the LCD‑X and HD 800S in particular, it creates deeply satisfying listening sessions, while the Arya gains weight and body.

Ratings (in class):

  • Build & Features: 8.5 / 10
  • Sound: 8.5 – 9 / 10
  • Value: 8 / 10
  • Enjoyment: 8.5 / 10

Overall: A versatile, well‑built, and musically engaging amplifier that balances tube charm with solid‑state control.