Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- 'Gorgeous' and a 'joy to listen to'
- Able to drive two electrostatic ear speakers at once
- Extremely high build quality
- Neutral, tight, and controlled sound signature, described as a 'wire with gain'
- Every detail is available to be heard in organic proportion
Product Considerations
- Bass may be weak until near the top of the volume range
- May sound a bit boring compared to other amps
- Very large and will probably necessitate special considerations for setup
- Cost is significant, even on the used market
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Blue Hawaii opens up the soundstage more, while the Molnar Alphabet Amp has better dynamics and impact
- Blue Hawaii is warmer, while the Molnar Alphabet Amp has more power
Takeaway: The Blue Hawaii is a well-engineered product that makes music enjoyable, revealing every detail in a balanced way. It's a great choice for a neutral and high-quality electrostatic headphone amplifier that allows one to just listen to the music.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Blue Hawaii Special Edition
reviews
[{"title":"HeadAmp Blue Hawaii SE Review","link":"https://bloomaudio.com/blogs/articles/headamp-blue-hawaii-se-review?srsltid=AfmBOorDHkdhuv0gA04Tiwm9gamVxEqrK8Mpp87cNDxioFlmGKPY-LYS","source":"Bloom Audio","datePublished":""},{"title":"Blue Hawaii Electrostatic Special Edition Headphone ...","link":"https://positive-feedback.com/audio-discourse/blue-hawaii-electrostatic-special-edition-headphone-amp-mrspeakers-voce-electrostatic-headphones","source":"Positive Feedback","datePublished":""},{"title":"Headphone Reviews","link":"https://www.stereophile.com/content/listening-stax-sr-009-and-great-headphone-amplifiers-headamp-blue-hawaii","source":"Stereophile","datePublished":""},{"title":"$20,000 SHOOTOUT! Blue Hawaii Special Edition vs. Mjolnir KGSSHV Carbon CC","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFwINDD35Yk","source":"Director's Garage","datePublished":"2024"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Electrical Type: Low noise dual JFET input 4x EL34/6CA7 vacuum tube output
- Frequency Response: 5Hz-20KHz +/- 0.3dB
- THD: 0.003% @ 1KHz/100VRMS
- Gain: 54dB (500x)
- Input Impedance: 50K ohm
- Output Voltage: 1600V peak-to-peak
- Line Voltage: 115/120V
- Power Consumption: 180W
- Inputs: 1 XLR, 2 RCA
- Outputs: 2 Teflon Stax Pro Bias (580V) headphone jacks, 1 XLR/1 RCA loop output
- Dimensions – Amplifier: 15.5in [394mm] W x 13.5in [343mm] D x 8.5in [216mm] H (with tubes installed)
- Dimensions – Power Supply: 7.7in [195mm] W x 12.5in [317mm] D x 4.5in [114mm] H
- Weight – Amplifier: 14lb [6.4Kg]
- Weight – Power Supply: 17lb [7.7Kg]
- Power Cable: 4ft [1.2m] (connects power supply to amplifier)
Description
The Blue Hawaii Special Edition electrostatic headphone amplifier is truly a work of art. With extraordinary sound and build quality to match, the BHSE pairs with our VOCE electrostatic headphone to deliver the ultimate electrostatic headphone experience.
The Blue Hawaii Special Edition electrostatic headphone amplifier is truly a work of art. With extraordinary sound and build quality to match, the BHSE pairs with our VOCE electrostatic headphone to deliver the ultimate electrostatic headphone experience. NOTES: MrSpeakers is authorized to sell only in the USA, no international sales Lead time is approximately 2 months All BHSE sales are final, no refunds, returns or exchanges
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
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Select product comparisons
GS-X mini:
- Positioning: A compact and budget-friendly amplifier designed for desktop use and portability.
- Description: Offers a small form factor with essential balanced and unbalanced outputs for everyday listening needs. Compared with larger models like the GS-X Mk2 or CFA3, its performance is tuned for moderate power demands and simplified functionality suited for limited space.
GS-X mk2:
- Positioning: A high-performance amplifier that delivers clear, transparent sound for dynamic and planar magnetic headphones.
- Description: Features low-noise circuitry, adaptable gain options, and multiple I/O choices to provide a premium and versatile audio experience. In contrast to the compact GS-X mini and the tube-driven tone of the Aristaeus, it is engineered for users who demand rigorous, analytical sound reproduction with robust power handling.
CFA3:
- Positioning: A flagship planar and dynamic amplifier built with modern surface-mount designs for desktop applications.
- Description: Uses new-old-stock transistors, innovative thermal regulation, and a custom stepped volume control for refined performance in a small footprint. Compared with the GS-X series and tube-based designs like the Aristaeus, it offers advanced features and precision aimed at driving high-end headphones with enhanced detail and control.
Aristaeus:
- Positioning: An electrostatic amplifier with an all-tube circuit design that delivers a warm, rich, and smooth sound signature.
- Description: Features luxurious wood inlays and tube circuitry to create a slightly laid-back and natural sound profile. When compared with the more clinical clarity of the GS-X units and the precise drive of the Blue Hawaii SE, it is ideal for users seeking vintage warmth and musicality, particularly with electrostatic headphone systems.
Blue Hawaii SE:
- Positioning: The premium electrostatic amplifier engineered to power the toughest headphone loads with exceptional accuracy and control.
- Description: Features dual Stax Pro-Bias outputs, high-voltage design, and precise channel matching that set it apart with industry-leading drive and clarity. Compared with the tube-inflected Aristaeus and the balanced transparency of the GS-X series, it provides the highest level of performance for users with demanding sonic goals.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
13
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
325
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
10
Founding Year
2002
Our take on the brand
HeadAmp pioneered portable hifi with their Pico series, which was among the first to combine a pocket-sized amp with a USB DAC. The brand is particularly known for their Blue Hawaii SE electrostatic headphone amplifier and GS-X series, which can drive everything from sensitive in-ear monitors to power-hungry planar magnetic headphones.
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