Description
Stagg SIA-ST Headphone Amp
The Stagg SIA-ST headphone amplifier is an affordable personal IEM monitor for enhancing your in-ear monitoring (IEM) experience, especially for musicians who do not need to move around on stage – such as us drummers and (freaky) keyboard players. As a wired system (not wireless), this amplifier provides reliable and high-quality audio performance, ensuring you receive a clean signal to your IEMs, even in demanding stage environments.
Wired System for Stable Performance
Featuring two XLR connectors, the Stagg SIA-ST headphone amp provides balanced inputs specifically designed for use with in-ear monitors (IEMs). These balanced connections minimise interference and ensure pristine audio transmission, making them ideal for seated musicians who require a dependable monitoring solution.
As a wired system, this amp offers stable and consistent performance without the risk of interference or dropout commonly associated with wireless systems. Drummers and keyboard players who remain stationary during a gig will certainly benefit from a reliable and uninterrupted monitoring experience.
Precision Audio Performance
With a wide frequency response of 20Hz to 80kHz (+/-0.5dB) and minimal Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise (THD + N) of 0.01%, the Stagg SIA-ST amplifier ensures that you hear your music exactly as it was intended. The amplifier maintains a signal-to-noise ratio of over 90dB (A-weighted), preserving the clarity and fidelity of your audio.
Portable Power Options
Whether you’re performing on stage or rehearsing in the studio, the Stagg SIA-ST amplifier offers versatile power options to suit your needs. It can be powered by 9V alkaline or 8.4V NiMH rechargeable batteries or the included 9V power adapter.
Compact and Lightweight Design
Measuring just 4.5cm x 12.5cm x 8.5cm (1.8″ x 4.9″ x 3.3″) and weighing only 0.27kg, this amplifier is compact and lightweight, making it easy to integrate into your stage setup. A very bag-friendly item which will easily squeeze into in hand-luggage, especially if you do a lot of gigs outside of the country and want to take your own monitoring system.
Similarity to Behringer Powerplay P1
It’s worth noting that the Stagg SIA-ST headphone amplifier bears a striking resemblance to the slightly more expensive Behringer Powerplay P1 headphone amp, suggesting that they may be manufactured in the same factory. This similarity in design and features underscores the potential reliability and performance of the Stagg amplifier, offering musicians a trusted and familiar monitoring solution.
However, unlike the Behringer, the Stagg SIA-ST does not come with a belt-clip and we have no information to suggest the Stagg offers the same protection of a built-in volume limiter for unexpected noise spikes. They certainly share the same technical specifications so we would like to assume the Stagg will operate in the same manner. (On the other hand, the Behringer doesn’t include a 9V PS adapter so the Stagg does offer a little more value.)
In conclusion, if you don’t need the stage-freedom of a wireless IEM setup (not usually needed by drummers), this headphone amp is a great way of starting out on your IEM experience on a budget. If you’re not sure if an IEM system is the right choice you, Stagg provide a price-friendly way of taking the plunge without committing silly money into the unknown.
