Say hello to your new favorite doo-dad for your iPhone, the Fostex HP- P1 Headphone Amp and digital-to-analog converter (DAC).

Now shipping, the HP-P1 is a portable headphone amplifier with D/A conversion that receives digital audio signal directly from an iPhone or iPod; it converts the digital signal to analog audio via high-resolution, 32-bit digital-to-analog conversion and then enhances the signal even further via an audiophile-quality headphone amplifier.

About the HP-P1, Fostex says, "The tone, depth, and effective headroom of the HP-P1 are nothing short of stunning, giving the impression of almost limitless audio power reserves available at all times."

In addition, the headphone amp / DAC combo offers a three-step gain control to accommodate all types of headphones, an in-built /PDIF Digital Out, twin digital filters and a rugged, yet cool, aluminum alloy chassis.

According to the manufacturer, everything about the Fostex HP-P1 screams quality -- First up is the audio processing. The HP-P1 uses 32-bit AKM’s AK4480, which features innovative on-chip symmetrical circuitry to avoid noise coupling, thus improving sound quality, coupled with 2 filters including a 32-bit minimum delay filter designed specifically for acoustic sounds. Overall, the HP-P1 works to provide natural-sounding audio.

Engineered from aircraft-grade aluminium and built to exacting standards, the HP-P1 is tough while also being easy to handle and operate. The HP-P1 comes with a carrying case that can be clipped to a belt if desired. In addition, a 50 mm dock connector USB cable and a USB power cable (Type A to mini B) are also included.

Check the HP-P1 specs:

• Digital connection from iPod / iPhone to HP-P1 via 30-pin dock connector
• High-quality 32-bit DAC (AKM4480) and headphone amp for maximum sound quality
• Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery (approx. 7 hours)
• USB powered operation also available
• Hi / Mid / Low 3-step gain control on the headphone out drives all headphone types
• Auxiliary analog Line Input for other MP3 players
• S/PDIF Digital Out for professional recording
• Analog Line Out for connection to an analog amplifier or a recorder
• Unique Digital Filter -- use regular filter or unique “minimum delay filter” without pre-echo
• Housed in a rigid aluminum alloy chassis

The Fostex HP-P1 is now available from authorized Fostex retailers. For more information, visit fostexinternational.com.