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geekhack Community => Other Geeky Stuff => Topic started by: NAVIWORLDINC on Tue, 28 December 2010, 16:01:35

Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Tue, 28 December 2010, 16:01:35
Post'em...

My Setup:
Onboard Toslink to JVC-888v To Grado SR125i's.

Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Brian8bit on Tue, 28 December 2010, 16:05:47
It's like I'm on 4chan.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Tue, 28 December 2010, 18:02:40
Koss PortaPros plugged into my motherboard's onboard audio. Supa hi-end, yo.

(http://www.digimedia.ru/UserFiles/image/materials/2009/august/idozers/KOSS_Porta_Pro.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Tue, 28 December 2010, 18:30:21
Quote from: Daniel Beaver;269994
Koss PortaPros plugged into my motherboard's onboard audio. Supa hi-end, yo.

Show Image
(http://www.digimedia.ru/UserFiles/image/materials/2009/august/idozers/KOSS_Porta_Pro.jpg)


I just bought a pair of those for my best friend to use on his ipod nano 2nd gen. (The last models before Apple started cheaping out on their DACs)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nmd on Tue, 28 December 2010, 20:05:31
I use Sennheiser HD 280 PROs for music and Razer Carcharias for gaming. I use the Razer because it's got a real relaxed braided cord and doesn't clamp down on my head, so if I'm wearing my glasses it doesn't give me a headache or distort my vision. The sound isn't as good and the Razer also has a defect in the volume control causing the left speaker to go out after a while but warranty covers it(just takes like a month for a replacement.)

I use Logitech Z-2300s rest of the time.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Tue, 28 December 2010, 20:18:04
AKG K44, best bang for buck.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jaynoon on Tue, 28 December 2010, 20:20:23
I have some Audio Technica ATH-AD700s plugged into an Astro Gaming Mixamp.

I don't think the AD700s benefit tremendously from amplification, but the mixamp actually makes the wiring around my desk less crazy, and provides an easy TOSlink->headphone path from my Xbox.

These headphones are ridiculous for the $90 or so you can get them online for.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parak on Tue, 28 December 2010, 20:33:49
Another ATH-AD700 fan here :D They go into a mixer, mixer connects to a kenwood VRS-7100 receiver, which connects to a soundcard via optical. Easy switching from headphones to speakers this way.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jaynoon on Tue, 28 December 2010, 21:20:20
Quote from: Parak;270079
Another ATH-AD700 fan here :D


Yeah, they're really fantastic cans for the money. I plug them straight into my iPhone and they sound pretty damn good.

I would totally jump up to the ATH-AD900s just based on my happiness with the 700s, but I don't really have too much to complain about. I suppose they could use a touch more low end response..
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Tue, 28 December 2010, 21:24:29
Judging from the picture, Grados are just as uncomfortable as Koss Porta Pros. Ear squeezed directly into foam = bad. I've used Sennheiser HD 570s for a good 8 years and bought Koss Porta Pros, which lasted a whole year until the non-replaceable cable broke. My latest babies are These (http://geekhack.org/showpost.php?p=269216&postcount=71). Running them with an old Sony integrated amp, they sound like NOTHING AT ALL. If you play a ****ty encode, they'll brutally reveal every glitch. If you play from a good source, they are phenomenal. Sennheisers in comparison like to sugarcoat. Some people really prefer that, and there's an argument to be made for either.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: D-EJ915 on Tue, 28 December 2010, 22:20:17
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/enthauptet/pho/_C9U9075.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 28 December 2010, 22:41:43
(http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/7015/part1293597493674.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 28 December 2010, 23:16:00
Another AD700 owner reporting in, just with these being directly plugged into the rear of an Auzentech X-Fi Prelude (no dedicated headphone amp). They work great for the exact purpose I bought 'em for-surround sound gaming with CMSS-3D Headphone.

It makes me wonder if all those higher-end cans like properly-amped Beyerdynamic DT880s and anything Stax or electrostatic would really be that much of an improvement in gaming and general music listening (I'm starting to build up a small FLAC collection now that I have the hard drive space) to justify the increased expense.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jnsjr on Tue, 28 December 2010, 23:26:17
AD900's plugged directly into a x-fi prelude as well... i have always wanted a pair of bassy senns and a pair of grados as well!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cbf123 on Tue, 28 December 2010, 23:43:04
AKG 501s with a self-built PPAv1 amp.  Bass boost is tuned to provide flat freq response lower than the cans themselves would normally provide.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Tue, 28 December 2010, 23:51:12
Quote from: godly_music;270105
Judging from the picture, Grados are just as uncomfortable as Koss Porta Pros. Ear squeezed directly into foam = bad.


Yes! Yes! Let the hate flow though you! lolz :P Actually, I find my grados to be quite comfy, as all it took was a slight bend of the headband to reduce the squeezing of the ears. I actually tend to forget that I am wearing them. Now I could see if you had a fat head, you might run into problems, but I don't exactly have that problem. In all seriousness though, I will agree with you that when I initially bought the pair they were a little uncomfortable. Yet, I knew that before I actually paid for them, as I tried them on in store and made my comparisons versus many other competing headphones. In the end, I choose audio quality over comfortability. After about a month the headband naturally stretched out and I noticed I was able to wear them for much lengthier periods of time then when initially got them. Now after having these headphones for over half a year and having put over 300 hours into them I can safely say I can easily (and have) wear these all day and night long.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Wed, 29 December 2010, 00:17:13
ad700 plugged in old xfi. Not an audio phile so do you guys really recommend some amplifier thing? most of the time i use my speakers, actually don't know what speakers i got (away) lemme check my woot account.
ok it wasn't from woot, oh well guess i really have to check, it's a really big subwoofer for a computer tho.
ah found it boston acoustics mm226
http://www.google.com/products/catalog?hl=en&expIds=17259,27586,27642&sugexp=ldymls&xhr=t&q=boston+acoustics+computer+speakers&cp=20&qe=Ym9zdG9uIGFjb3VzdGljcyBjb20&qesig=C4ATrApZfUnL_t7-AwpMXw&pkc=AFgZ2tkKaBwZb3oVtflaCAD-S8h23UDP4FV8KkC7QvMRExs6N3lWQT1mc5HkAt2dBnbXDWl99Ni19_0oaWvXbV9iVXDwN5mhHQ&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=9840360697854834689&ei=8tEaTbngAcL38AajhIzXDQ&sa=X&oi=product_catalog_result&ct=result&resnum=4&sqi=2&ved=0CDcQ8wIwAw# (http://www.google.com/products/catalog?hl=en&expIds=17259,27586,27642&sugexp=ldymls&xhr=t&q=boston+acoustics+computer+speakers&cp=20&qe=Ym9zdG9uIGFjb3VzdGljcyBjb20&qesig=C4ATrApZfUnL_t7-AwpMXw&pkc=AFgZ2tkKaBwZb3oVtflaCAD-S8h23UDP4FV8KkC7QvMRExs6N3lWQT1mc5HkAt2dBnbXDWl99Ni19_0oaWvXbV9iVXDwN5mhHQ&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=9840360697854834689&ei=8tEaTbngAcL38AajhIzXDQ&sa=X&oi=product_catalog_result&ct=result&resnum=4&sqi=2&ved=0CDcQ8wIwAw#)
subwoofer is huge, as big as 4 36o's put together.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Wed, 29 December 2010, 00:33:08
Quote from: NamelessPFG;270139
It makes me wonder if all those higher-end cans like properly-amped Beyerdynamic DT880s and anything Stax or electrostatic would really be that much of an improvement in gaming


From what I read on the DT880 600ohm at head-fi and other places. Gaming wise they are monsters for it, especially for very serious competitive gaming while the DT770s are more of a fun cans. There's a ****load of reviews on the DT880s and gaming in particular the 600s which seem to produce the best sound when properly amp'd, hell even some people are using the Xonar ST and saying it's just fine for amplification but I'm sure there's always someone coming out and saying external only.

Either way there's a lot of gaming sayings of use but nothing detailed much like what kind of effect it had, discernibility etc.etc. a little too general for my liking especially considering DT880s price.

One guy mentioned the AD700s are always a considered a can for gaming because at the price point they nearly compete with 200-300+ headphones. But compared to the DT880s the 700s are like a low-definition monitor, while the DTs are like higher-definition monitors. Both have a strong gaming capability but the DT880s just provide so much more detail.

The ones who've used it seem to say that the only thing that would be an upgrade are electostats and whatnot(for gaming for that matter but I doubt many will drop 20K+ for headphone plus a giant amp), I even seem to recall some saying the DT4s the old 1930s-40s version(and a specific version of it due to being analytical neutral headphones) were also another option.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlueRain on Wed, 29 December 2010, 01:09:17
What's the difference between A700 and AD700?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Wed, 29 December 2010, 01:14:00
Quote from: BlueRain;270173
What's the difference between A700 and AD700?


A = closed, AD = open.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlueRain on Wed, 29 December 2010, 01:14:51
Quote from: Arc'xer;270175
A = closed, AD = open.


The retail price seems so far apart for the "minor" difference?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sixty on Wed, 29 December 2010, 01:16:18
HD595 too since two years or so by now. I finally washed the cushions the other day in the sink, after finding out they cost like $100 as replacement parts. It surprisingly worked quite well.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Wed, 29 December 2010, 02:07:37
I picked up the Grado SR80i for my younger brother for an xmas/bday combo gift.  They seem like a great starter set for rock music.

Myself, I haven't had a decent set of headphones in maybe 15 years.  I only got a few minutes' listening time on the SR80i last weekend, and it seemed really dialed in for rock music.  I listen to a lot of rock, but also a good amount of jazz, mostly acoustic instruments.  For lack of a better word they felt a little claustrophobic with the few jazz albums I tried out.  Anyone got a recommendation for something better?  A breakdown of what I listen to lately might go like:

45% "Rock" (Classic Rock, Metal, Punk)
25% Jazz (Mostly acoustic instruments, few vocals)
15% Classical (Piano, orchestra)
15% Hip-hop

I wouldn't want to spend much over $200 and a significant amount of the listening would be unamped.  Just curious if anyone has similar tastes and a good set of headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: isp on Wed, 29 December 2010, 02:19:15
These things have held up pretty well.  Good value.

(http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2162/97623829.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Wed, 29 December 2010, 02:24:53
Quote from: Arc'xer;270164
From what I read on the DT880 600ohm at head-fi and other places. Gaming wise they are monsters for it, especially for very serious competitive gaming while the DT770s are more of a fun cans. There's a ****load of reviews on the DT880s and gaming in particular the 600s which seem to produce the best sound when properly amp'd, hell even some people are using the Xonar ST and saying it's just fine for amplification but I'm sure there's always someone coming out and saying external only.


I bet my fat head (:biggrin:) that there is no difference AT ALL. 600 Ohm is meant for beefy amps. What high resistance does is reduce residual noise. That's all it does. The sound is identical, unless your amp is a noise machine. And then some people even have it plugged into a soundcard and again, it's fine? My head's on backwards!

Enthusiast forums are full of both incredibly in-depth reviews and on the other hand, wishful dribble that justifies excessive spending. You find this phenomenon everywhere. "I really can feel the 2g extra tactile force, they make such a difference, and the little rubber rings made from the African Bloop-de-doo tree make for a much smoother bounce than the old regular rubber, my migraine has VANISHED!"

With my awesome sound setup and these fine ears that get me laid regularly, I still can't hear the difference between a FLAC and a well-encoded V0 Mp3 or a ~192kbps Vorbis. Oh no he didn't! Well, problem samples used for blind comparison are a different matter, these exist and you will definitely hear them if you ABX. But that's between lossless and lossy, not between headphones and not about music.

The Beyerdynamic lineup. Roughly it goes 770 (closed), 880 (halfopen) and 990 (open). 770s got more bass, 880s are called neutral and the 990s are a bit more forward and fun. Pro versions have a coiled cable, more rugged and less fancy construction, higher headband pressure and as a result, bit narrower soundstage and more bass. Honestly, I wouldn't have bought mine if I didn't think they would last me for 20 years. They're expensive and solid. If you're looking for a cheaper alternative, it's often said that the AKG K701 is similar to the DT 880.

Oh and if you have the luxury,
going out and testing > all.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Wed, 29 December 2010, 03:06:25
Quote from: godly_music;270186
Oh and if you have the luxury,
going out and testing > all.

I would. :) But the equipment to do so is couple more digits.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zen on Wed, 29 December 2010, 04:17:53
(http://img375.imageshack.us/img375/1023/akgi.jpg)

Emu 0202 USB soundcard
Penguin Amp 'Caffeine'
- AD8397 opamp
- LM6171 ground driver
Connected via home-made cable made of
Mogami 2549 cable &
Neutrik angled stereo mini-jacks
AKG K240 MkII
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Wed, 29 December 2010, 04:29:27
My babies:

(http://tux.fi/~kumis/Headphones.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Senor_Cartmenez on Wed, 29 December 2010, 05:14:42
AKG K240 MKII for me as well.

Just recently bought them. Love those.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Brodie337 on Wed, 29 December 2010, 05:23:26
Sennheiser HD555s with the 595 mod. I've considered marrying them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YpoCaramel on Wed, 29 December 2010, 05:35:17
K701 and D5000, but they're not my favorites really. I prefer the HD600 and HD650 over it either, and probably the DT880 as well (yes, I've heard them all). The ESW-10JPNs are lovely, but the clamp gets tiring fast. Want to purchase some custom in-ears and full-sized.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: 42.tar.gz on Wed, 29 December 2010, 05:43:49
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=14349&stc=1&d=1293622959)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 29 December 2010, 07:08:33
Quote from: NAVIWORLDINC;270145
Yes! Yes! Let the hate flow though you! lolz :P Actually, I find my grados to be quite comfy, as all it took was a slight bend of the headband to reduce the squeezing of the ears. I actually tend to forget that I am wearing them. Now I could see if you had a fat head, you might run into problems, but I don't exactly have that problem. In all seriousness though, I will agree with you that when I initially bought the pair they were a little uncomfortable. Yet, I knew that before I actually paid for them, as I tried them on in store and made my comparisons versus many other competing headphones. In the end, I choose audio quality over comfortability. After about a month the headband naturally stretched out and I noticed I was able to wear them for much lengthier periods of time then when initially got them. Now after having these headphones for over half a year and having put over 300 hours into them I can safely say I can easily (and have) wear these all day and night long.


The Grado doughnut ear pads are much more comfortable than the flat ear pads that come with the sr60-sr125. At least to me, my ears barely touch the pads themselves, they fit completely inside the hole while the pads rest on my head. (small ears)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 29 December 2010, 11:03:37
Quote from: Senor_Cartmenez;270217
AKG K240 MKII for me as well.

Just recently bought them. Love those.

Made in Austria or already made in China?

Stuff here:
HD580 @ comp
HD590 mainly for Rockbox'd ClipV2 @ home
SE420 for portable use on ClipV2
HD420SL for radio (600 ohm hiss busters)
HD540 (old 600 ohm) for standalone CD player

A bit heavy on Sennheiser, I know.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jpc on Wed, 29 December 2010, 11:21:30
HD580's are great. Love em. Too bad they are out of production.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Wed, 29 December 2010, 11:52:21
JVC HAS-700 (best bang for the buck!) @ Work
link (http://www.amazon.com/JVC-HAS700-Portable-Full-Size-Headphone/dp/B0013OWPVO/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1293645040&sr=1-1)

HD555's (no mod) connected to my x-fi xtreme gamer @ Home (best $87 I spent on cans!)

Looking at the A700s, they have them on sale!
link (http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-A700-Audio-Technica-Headphones/dp/B000E9VKUQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1293644918&sr=8-1)

AD700 cheaper!
link (http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATH-AD700-Open-air-Audiophile-Headphones/dp/B000CMS0XU/ref=pd_bxgy_e_img_c)

I love my JVC's but considering the A700, but I work in a quiet environment. Anyone use them for work?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlueRain on Wed, 29 December 2010, 11:56:56
Any reason for no mod? The YouTube looked really easy to convert to 595 which is $50 more expensive on Amazon and two times the MSRP?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Wed, 29 December 2010, 11:57:55
Quote from: BlueRain;270325
Any reason for no mod? The YouTube looked really easy to convert to 595 which is $50 more expensive on Amazon and two times the MSRP?


Haven't broken them in yet. Too lazy to run the noise samples lol
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 29 December 2010, 13:03:51
I need to spend some time reading this thread and over at head-fi, you guys should post your opinions of what you have.  I'd like to get some nice cans in the $100-300 range for use with an amp and some good audio gear that I've recently scored. :biggrin:

I use these Ultimate Ears Triple.Fi 10vi (has mic for phone use) on my commutes, doing yard work and general portable use.  Picked them up for $100 last year during the Amazon gold box sale and they are one of the best purchases I've ever made.  If I lost them I would pay full retail ($350-420ish) to replace them.

The Sennheiser HD-202's are my leave at work on my desk phones which I don't use much since getting the Triple.Fi 10's but they are an Excellent budget headphone.  Really.  For $25 they are very tough to beat and quite comfortable.

(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-sQ6TN93LvU/TRuFGfbuVVI/AAAAAAAABlY/PtTnqldOFgM/s800/Headphones%20and%20earbuds%20-%20Ultimate%20Ears%20Triple.Fi%2010vi%20and%20Sennheiser%20HD-202.JPG)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Wed, 29 December 2010, 13:12:18
I prefer the pear. Mmmm.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: wap32 on Wed, 29 December 2010, 13:28:17
At home I have some 601's not currently amped, but I'm just finishing a DIY amp (opamp gain stage w/ MOSFET buffer).

Etys ER4P for noisy environments or high portability, the detail on these is just amazing.

At the University, I usually bring my ESW9's. After owning the A900's I wanted something similar but portable.
They're not quite it, but they're very fun to listen and sound good unamped.

No pics ATM.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Keymonger on Wed, 29 December 2010, 13:52:30
Quote from: Brodie337;270220
Sennheiser HD555s with the 595 mod.

Same here. Hooked up to a NuForce Icon amp...

I have a question, by the way. Can you guys tell a difference between 128 kbps MP3 and uncompressed? Or 128 kbps MP3 and 320 kbps? Last time I checked, I couldn't, but now I listen to more classical than ever. I remember when I first used an amp with my headphone, I still couldn't tell a difference, but I did hear more in the recordings that I had, and I could make out the lyrics in songs better...

I have what I consider good hearing. But I have read people that can easily tell the difference. Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't trust people who say that. There are also people who say that they can tell the difference between digital and analog. I'd like to see them do a little blind trial and see if that is really the case. I've had that in mind for some time, to write a script that plays some music in different quality and then asks the user to guess which sample it was, and then at the end show what the user got right and wrong.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Wed, 29 December 2010, 13:58:14
Quote from: Zen;270208
Show Image
(http://img375.imageshack.us/img375/1023/akgi.jpg)


Emu 0202 USB soundcard
Penguin Amp 'Caffeine'
- AD8397 opamp
- LM6171 ground driver
Connected via home-made cable made of
Mogami 2549 cable &
Neutrik angled stereo mini-jacks
AKG K240 MkII


any reason a non audiophile who uses his droid for workouts or just ad700 to xfi would want to make an altoid cmoy amp?
i'm just asking cuz they look cool and i just learned how to solder so i was thinking about buying a kit! but i have absolutely no idea what it's for and what it can do, pretty much total noob. (i just think it'd be fun to solder)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 29 December 2010, 13:58:53
I definitely can tell 128k vs higher, absolutely.  Now 192k vs 320k is more tricky, and it really depends on the music.  Most modern music sucks majorly and the details aren't there to hear to begin with.

Listen to Dave Matthews Live at Redrocks or Pink Floyd Pulse at low and high bitrate and you'll hear it.
 
There is a McIntosh cd on bittorrent sites that is used to demo their audio gear that is phenomenal.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Wed, 29 December 2010, 14:17:16
I also rip everything to both FLAC and MP3.  If I ever want to change the compressed format to something else, it is not too much effort to convert the FLACs to a new format, but I don't want to get all the CDs back out again.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 29 December 2010, 14:28:28
Quote from: jpc;270315
HD580's are great. Love em. Too bad they are out of production.

HD600s still exist, which are the same with fancier looks. Not a fan of the marble finish though, and apparently it likes to peel off once in a while, too. (When I sold my HD650, this happened during shipping. Bummer.)
Quote from: Lanx;270369
any reason a non audiophile who uses his droid for workouts or just ad700 to xfi would want to make an altoid cmoy amp?
i'm just asking cuz they look cool and i just learned how to solder so i was thinking about buying a kit! but i have absolutely no idea what it's for and what it can do, pretty much total noob. (i just think it'd be fun to solder)

Do you have trouble reaching enough volume?

But certainly a Cmoy makes a nice DIY project. To match the AD700s, best pick an opamp with some oomph that isn't easily impressed by low-impedance loads. ATs are quite efficient, but low impedance tends to drag down open-loop gain and worsen distortion. Buffer capacitors should be reasonably-sized, too (maybe 470µ with a single 9V block, more for lower voltages).

The X-Fi may be able to user some beefier buffer caps, too. I'm not sure whether they were as thrifty as with the Audigy SE, which reportedly does noticeably better on low-impedance cans if the headphone opamp gets a few hundred µF (16V+) from V+ to V-... biggest problem is fitting the thing.

Re: bitrates, 128k CBR tends to be quite OK these days. But who still uses that? My portable stuff is LAME VBR -V 4 or -V 5 these days, even -V 6 I was quite unable to ABX. It is important that Replaygain or equivalent be used, however. Hotly mastered records may result in overshoots of up to +3.6 dB with lower MP3 bitrates, giving additional clipping on playback. (Rockbox rulez!)

Archiving should be lossless only, as ripster outlined.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Wed, 29 December 2010, 14:34:57
Quote from: Keymonger;270368
Same here. Hooked up to a NuForce Icon amp...

I have a question, by the way. Can you guys tell a difference between 128 kbps MP3 and uncompressed? Or 128 kbps MP3 and 320 kbps?


With my Grados I can tell the difference between 256kbps and 320kbps. Anything less than 224kbps just sounds plain bad. I can also tell a difference between V0, V2, compression. In all honesty when I actually want to hear the album I will often get the CD out and play directly from, I don't have my turntable set up as of right now, but have been interested in getting it out. As for the difference between high quality FLAC and 320kbps I can't tell a difference quality, but they do sound different.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Wed, 29 December 2010, 18:25:45
Quote from: NAVIWORLDINC;270383
I can tell the difference


Blind listening test or it didn't happen.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 29 December 2010, 19:18:23
Quote from: didjamatic;270348
I need to spend some time reading this thread and over at headroom, you guys should post your opinions of what you have.  I'd like to get some nice cans in the $100-300 range for use with an amp and some good audio gear that I've recently scored. :biggrin:

I use these Ultimate Ears Triple.Fi 10vi (has mic for phone use) on my commutes, doing yard work and general portable use.  Picked them up for $100 last year during the Amazon gold box sale and they are one of the best purchases I've ever made.  If I lost them I would pay full retail ($350-420ish) to replace them.

The Sennheiser HD-202's are my leave at work on my desk phones which I don't use much since getting the Triple.Fi 10's but they are an Excellent budget headphone.  Really.  For $25 they are very tough to beat and quite comfortable.



the Grado 325is is incredibly bright with a very tight bass if properly amp (it doesn't take much). Jazz music really shines on these headphones, especially by bands where the recordings are top notch, i.e. Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band.

When I say bright, I don't mean they have lack of bass, but the highs are incredibly prominent in all music, but they never feel too shrill.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parabellum on Wed, 29 December 2010, 19:27:44
I'm trying to find a wireless pair of headphones that won't cost me a damn fortune..
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Thu, 30 December 2010, 01:31:31
Quote from: keyb_gr;270379

Do you have trouble reaching enough volume?

no, usually have it at like 3 (i use the speaker pass thru) and i'm a total noob in the audio area so like i don't even know what an amp would do, i just thought those cmoy things would be cool to make heh.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Cyanide on Thu, 30 December 2010, 02:27:08
i use the bose Qc-15's. they are good, but i don't know if i would say they are worth $300. everyone that uses them says the quality is amazing, but i have always had good headphones/speakers so i didn't notice a huge difference. i only paid $200 for them because my previouse bose headphones had  broken after warranty, and if that happens they let you buy the same pair, or an upgrade for a big discount.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Earth Worm Jim on Thu, 30 December 2010, 05:38:24
Quote from: ripster;269948
HTPC media server or InterToobs Cloud to Slimbox (duet in bedroom) to Gilmore Lite to Sennheiser HD595.  I can also use the Slimbox controller as a Wifi iPod with Shure e530 buds.

Show Image
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4736071319_8c97d66fef_z.jpg)


Sennheiser HD595 nice! There the ones I use, very comfy on the ears for a long gaming session or music. :-)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Thu, 30 December 2010, 07:43:46
Quote from: NAVIWORLDINC;270383
As for the difference between high quality FLAC and 320kbps I can't tell a difference quality, but they do sound different.

High quality FLAC? FLAC is lossless.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Thu, 30 December 2010, 09:46:44
Quote from: woody;270636
High quality FLAC? FLAC is lossless.


I think he was just describing what FLAC was.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zen on Thu, 30 December 2010, 10:16:50
Quote from: godly_music;270461
Blind listening test or it didn't happen.


Wrong ..
Blindtests can pretty much be set up to show whatever result is desired,
a 2 Db mismatch of levels will result in more than 90% of people choosing the loudest source as the 'best-sounding' .

Here's what you do instead :
You take an album that you know well, rip it to a 'lossless' format
and make a lossy version to ..
If you can't hear the difference you are either using a onboard 'soundcard'
and/or other inferior equipment OR you need to contact your doctor for  an audiogram ASAP ..
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zen on Thu, 30 December 2010, 10:29:29
Or maybe you actually play real instruments !
and have an above average trained hearing .
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zen on Thu, 30 December 2010, 10:35:23
Yeah, You better think really hard about that one,
this being a board where people discuss the 'different feel'
of various similar boards of different vintages !

Seriously, do you think violinists pay a million bucks or more for a Stradivarius
if a 500 bucks Yamaha sounds the same ?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Thu, 30 December 2010, 10:43:50
Quote from: Zen;270669
Wrong ..
Blindtests can pretty much be set up to show whatever result is desired,
a 2 Db mismatch of levels will result in more than 90% of people choosing the loudest source as the 'best-sounding' .

Here's what you do instead :
You take an album that you know well, rip it to a 'lossless' format
and make a lossy version to ..
If you can't hear the difference you are either using a onboard 'soundcard'
and/or other inferior equipment OR you need to contact your doctor for  an audiogram ASAP ..


Blind listening comparison with a large enough number of iterations is the standard to determine transparency of different codecs at different bitrates. It is what Hydrogenaudio folks do. Over there, you aren't even allowed to open your mouth on this issue unless you back it up with an ABX. Unless you can back up this claim that blind tests can be falsified with evidence, it's not valid.

A requirement for proper ABXing is that both samples are equally loud (you can achieve this with ReplayGain easily), and that there is a large enough gap in the results to be conclusive.

The procedure you describe is exactly how placebo effects are born. You take a track that you already know well, you know which one is the lossy one and which isn't, and then you add the incentive that if you can't hear the difference between lossy and lossless, something must be wrong with your ears or your equipment.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Thu, 30 December 2010, 11:13:18
Ugh... one of those guys audiophile guys dissing blind test.

I'm sorry, but everytime I hear someone say:
Quote

Blindtests can pretty much be set up to show whatever result is desired,


I just think:

(http://themurkyfringe.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09water-600.jpg)


Science works. It's the reason you have all your hi-tech audio gear.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zen on Thu, 30 December 2010, 11:24:19
Quote from: godly_music;270681

The procedure you describe is exactly how placebo effects are born. You take a track that you already know well, you know which one is the lossy one and which isn't, and then you add the incentive that if you can't hear the difference between lossy and lossless, something must be wrong with your ears or your equipment.


I did not say that you should know what version is being played ..

What I DID say is that if you can't hear the difference between a
lossless and a lossy version of the same WELL-KNOWN piece of music
there is a problem.. Either your equipment is of insufficient quality
to reproduce the difference OR you have a hearing-problem .

Other than that, I totally agree that a lot of all this 'HiFi'-stuff
is superstition, snobbery and/or placebo ..
Silver 'sounds cold', Gold is 'warm' etc etc ..
Yeah, as long as you can see or know what is what, because your hearing is also affected by what you are 'expecting' to hear .

The fact that I use Mogami-cable should tell you a bit about where I'm coming from..
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Thu, 30 December 2010, 11:56:13
Quote from: Zen;270699
I did not say that you should know what version is being played ..


So it's sort of like a "blind" test then? :biggrin:

Well, I'll take the opposite side and say that if you have a high-quality lossy encode such as a recent Vorbis Q6 or MP3 V0 or whichever AAC bitrate is comparable, you won't be able to hear the difference between that and the lossless original. If you can hear a difference, then there is a problem. Either you hear it because you want to hear it, or there's a spider with a tiny microphone sitting in your amp.

It's easy to speak in absolutes. I'm on the safe side saying that lossy is transparent, because that's what it aims to be and that's what the consensus of the internet authority on this (Hydrogenaudio) is. The other side is the one that needs to come up with evidence against this, which again, means doing ABXing.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Thu, 30 December 2010, 12:20:31
Quote from: godly_music;270461
Blind listening test or it didn't happen.


Alright, I'll just call up a few scientists and have them setup a controlled experiment with my own equipment. Dude go **** yourself, I don't really much care what you have read on the internet, but some people actually have good hearing, and from what I have noticed, a lot of people can't hear **** in my opinion.

Just to give you an example of how strong my hearing is, last night I had a headache and I had to take a battery out of the wall clock in order for my brain to stop pounding at each second it ticked off. This wall clock only has your standard quartz time movement piece you see in everyday clocks. Oh I'd like to further mention, that my room is somewhat big, and likes to absorb sound.

I would also like to mention that I am a musician, and have been playing music since I was six years old. I know with my setup my ears can notice the difference between  256kbps and 320kbps, and if you don't believe it, well personally I don't really give a damn, but don't discredit someone just because you can't hear the difference for yourself, and don't discredit someone because you have found similar studies that satisfy your mental well being of not being able to hear.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Thu, 30 December 2010, 12:28:53
Quote from: ripster;270728
Wow.  Why do you have a crap receiver then?


:eek: And what makes you think it is crap?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Thu, 30 December 2010, 12:36:20
Quote from: ripster;270731
Just yanking your chain.  I usually don't hear a big difference in receivers with speakers but do using headphone amps versus some crappy receiver headphone outs.


Ah I thought so... I am not claiming my receiver is the BEST device in the world to provide amplification to my grados, hell, a couple months ago I went back and tested some audiophile headphone amps, all in the over $500-2500 market. I couldn't tell big enough difference, though this one amp I saw for like $1250 sounded really good to me. Spoke with one of the tech's and he said that most of the older JVC's and Pioneers actually had really decent headphone jacks. I was kinda happy with his honesty. Funny too, I bought this amp at a yard sale for $20. Still loving the TOSLINK.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Thu, 30 December 2010, 13:54:22
So far it's been suggested that I be convinced by:

- a brand of cable
- nightly headache
- career choice
- strong language

If you couldn't care less to convince me, then stop trying to convince me and exit the argument. Everything else is just white noise, bro.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Thu, 30 December 2010, 13:59:55
Quote from: godly_music;270772
So far it's been suggested that I be convinced by:

- a brand of cable
- nightly headache
- career choice
- strong language

If you couldn't care less to convince me, then stop trying to convince me and exit the argument. Everything else is just white noise, bro.


- a brand of cable
TOSLINK is not a brand, it is a technology of fiber cabling invented by Toshiba in 1983.
- nightly headache
meh
- career choice
Never mentioned anything about a career brah.
- strong language
LOL are you the German FCC?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kamikazekyle on Thu, 30 December 2010, 15:15:34
So, to interject in the Lossless v. Lossy discussion, anyone have any good experience with IEMs?  I normally use IEMs due to my piercings and the pain most headphones cause.  I'm just trying to find a pair that fits my preferences.

I usually listen on a Zune HD for portable, or at my computer and through a FiiO E5 pocket amp.  I also usually use Calamity Trigger from the BlazBlue soundtrack CD for testing since it has electric guitar, bass, drums, plus orchestral string and wind instruments and each has unique sections and combined sections.

I've got a pair of Shure 530's, and they have really clear mids, though the highs are a bit aggressive but not overly so.  The lows are pretty pitiful though.  If I flip the FiiO's EQ to bass boosting, it helps fill out the lows some.  Overall they tend to lack body the soundstage feels far away.  I also easily notice hiss from all my audio sources, though I'm not exactly running all that high end gear.  I suppose if I ran them through a better amp I'd get better results.

I also tried a pair of Ultimate Ears TripleFi 10's, and hated those.  The bass and low end was absent, the mids and highs were cold, albeit clear.  I preferred the Shures over these.

My current mains are Ultimate Ears SuperFi 5 Extended Bass.  These give me the lower end body I like without being punchy, and highs are pretty good but the mids get muddled.  They fit nice, but also slide out over time so I have to keep refitting if I have much head movement.

Anyone have any other suggestions?  Either for a different set of IEMs, or maybe a good amp (and/or USB DAC/sound card) if that'd help.  I'd also take suggestions on headphones, assuming the ear pads were large enough to go entirely around my ears and industrial :P  My headphone experience is pretty limited to A900s (pretty good sound, though again a little bass light) and some Grados that I can't remember the model (too painful to use).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Thu, 30 December 2010, 17:10:31
Senn HD595's are going for $117 today on Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD595-Performance-Premiere-Headphones/dp/B0001FTVE0
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Thu, 30 December 2010, 17:50:54
Is there a consensus on what the best $100-$150 range of headphones are? I've seen quite a few mentions of the Sennheisers HD595 and the Audio Technica ATH-AD700.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: EverythingIBM on Thu, 30 December 2010, 18:12:17
Quote from: Daniel Beaver;270856
Is there a consensus on what the best $100-$150 range of headphones are? I've seen quite a few mentions of the Sennheisers HD595 and the Audio Technica ATH-AD700.


Sony and Creative have some good headphones in that range.

Although probably not many people here are fond of Creative's speakers/headphones, which is too bad.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Phaedrus2129 on Thu, 30 December 2010, 20:24:18
I use JVC HA-RX700s. Cheap and good.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Thu, 30 December 2010, 21:43:51
I say HD595's for all around best experience, and SR125i's for audiophilia omg my ears are cumming bliss. The HD595's are nice and comfy, bass was a bit hard and highs sounded harsh to me, where as the SR125i's sounded a bit more natural, yet in the beginning, they can be uncomfortable to use.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: polygon on Thu, 30 December 2010, 23:02:38
Wow that's a insane price for 595's ins't it? I remember seeing 555's for $80-100 on sale.

I have these sony headphones:

(http://www.iheadphones.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/S/o/Sony-MDR-XB700_3.jpg)

Pretty good quality, and most importantly they are THE most comfortable headphones ever.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kamikazekyle on Thu, 30 December 2010, 23:14:37
Quote from: ripster;270804
I have Shure 530 and SuperFis too and you could always try a better headphone amp but the Shure 530 is very low impedence and tends to pick up noise easily (my Touch hisses like crazy with it).  I happen to like the Shure bass but hated all the lower end Shure models.  I also think the SuperFI mids are muddled (suspect the ovewhelming bass).   Or look at custom ear molds.  

The trouble with IEMs is it seems you have to pay at least 3X full size cans to get comparable quality.


Yea, that's what I noticed.  I managed to get the Shure 530's on a really good sale and I do value them for classical and reference type listening.  Daily drivers tend to be the SuperFi's for the time being.  I would like more middle clarity, but all the other sub-$1k IEMs haven't pleased me or reviews say outright they lack on the low end.  

I might look into a custom mold eventually.  The fit is OK on the SuperFi's, it's just the silicone tips like to trap heat and slide out, while the foam tips are too small for my ear canals.  They'll expand to max size and still not seal.

I had my girlfriend do a quick A/B test with my Shures and SuperFi's since she's 1st Chair in an orchestra and has been playing violin since she was a child.  I figured she could give me some advice since she's been around live music much more than myself.  Even she agreed that my Shures had *no* low end at all.  I'm starting to wonder if there might be something wrong with them as I can't even hear much below middle C on piano pieces, and it feels as though there is ZERO bass -- almost as if the low end simply isn't there.

Though, since those Sennheiser 595's are the lowest price they've been on Amazon in 6+ months, I might give a shot at those, especially since they're open air.  If they don't work out, I could probably resell them for at least as much as I paid considering they're only $118 right now.

(http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/audiophiles.png)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Crypt on Thu, 30 December 2010, 23:37:07
Ooh, good deals are always tempting.  I've been eying Alessandro MS1s, but maybe I should do more research.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AndrewZorn on Fri, 31 December 2010, 01:21:41
This thread just reminded me how badly I needed replacement pads for my ATH-M50s, which I researched and ordered just now.  Pleather gets so sweaty and nasty.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Fri, 31 December 2010, 02:15:41
You should see the pads on my old Sennheiser HD 570's, they have basically turned into solid crust. It looks like the skin of a reptile.

I would love to replace the velour on my new headphones with pleather, it's just easier to clean. But by testimony it "dramatically alters the sound" and who am I to argue with the big spenders.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Sat, 01 January 2011, 01:31:15
Dang, Senn 595's are back up to $150.  I was a day late or I would have snagged a set.

As for IEM's, I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Triple.Fi 10vi's and spend at least an hour a day with them in my ears.  They're very efficient and were made for use with portable electronics like Ipod/Iphone.  But I do look forward to trying them with a headphone amp.

Possibly this one:

Little Dot MKIV SE
(http://axzell.com/images/supra/ld_mkivse.jpg)

or the Little Dot MKIII for less than half the price
(http://img.auctiva.com/imgdata/6/6/6/8/6/4/webimg/287558321_o.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Sat, 01 January 2011, 02:05:05
These look interesting, being closed and reviewed so favorably.  I'm a Denon fan since scoring a POA-1500 amp that I'm using on my stereo setup.

Denon AH-D2000 (http://www.headphone.com/selection-guide/denon-ah-d2000.php)

(http://www.headphone.com/productphotos/large/0020522000_3332.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Sat, 01 January 2011, 03:32:54
So I've been "educating" myself over at head-fi.  Why does everyone burn everything in?  There are guys "burning in" solid-state electronics over there.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: gun_sl1nger on Sat, 01 January 2011, 04:44:05
Quote from: BlueRain;270173
What's the difference between A700 and AD700?

A700 = closed headphones (speaker contained within solid 'cup' of material) prevent sound from leaking in or out. Gives a warmer more enclosed sound (generally)

AD700 = open headphones ( speaker  contained within a mesh like enclosure) allowing sound to leak both in and out. Better 'spatial' sound.

Don't educated your self on head fi. 90% of it is audiophile bull**** about how 500 dollar oxygen free pure copper cables give you better sound. Or how you need to 'burn' headphones in for 300 hours playing white noise through them to make them truly sound great.

'High end' Hi Fi equipment is an excellent example of the law of diminishing returns.

This is a good place for advice minus the BS.

www.headphones.com.au

These are mine:
HD 600s an open set I wear for Jazz/blues/classical
(http://184.72.239.143/mu/6eae1ffc-07fd-d26f.jpg)

DT250 for home when baby Bella is asleep.
(http://184.72.239.143/mu/6eae1ffc-082f-1f22.jpg)

A900s (for work easy to drive) + Asus STX for quality PC sound
(http://184.72.239.143/mu/6eae1ffc-0842-bed7.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: gun_sl1nger on Sat, 01 January 2011, 05:02:56
Quote from: RoboKrikit;271520
So I've been "educating" myself over at head-fi.  Why does everyone burn everything in?  There are guys "burning in" solid-state electronics over there.

Because none of then have an electrical engineering background. I have seen people suggest 'burning In' after market headphone cables. It is retarded.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Sat, 01 January 2011, 11:05:32
so your saying headfi is NOT the GH of headset audio but rather more akin to OCN?
if so what's the GH equiv then?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Sat, 01 January 2011, 11:12:41
I figured I should mention Yuin PK3 (http://www.amazon.com/YUIN-PK3-Earbuds/dp/B002OGEP2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1293901847&sr=1-1)s, which are the nicest earbuds I've used. Never going to be up to the quality of headphones or in-canal, but when I'm out an about they're wonderful to have (I need to be able to hear the outside world somewhat over my music).

They are much better than Sennheiser mx500s, which are always the recommendation I see on the internet.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 01 January 2011, 11:17:55
woot woot i got the 595's at $117, pretty good deal.

PEW PEW PEW PEW PEW!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ManjyomeThunder on Sat, 01 January 2011, 11:39:02
http://www.amazon.com/Skullcandy-Com-Multimedia-Headphone-Black/dp/B000OYFPZ2

They were on sale for $30 when I got them.

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41lZBJ9ubwL.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 01 January 2011, 12:44:07
once i burned in my remote control over 100 hours, afterwards the remote functions had a tighter response.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: gun_sl1nger on Sat, 01 January 2011, 14:11:51
Quote from: ripster;271614
Speaker cones do "burn in".  Everything else is HeadFi "All In Their Heads" bs.

If by burn in you mean loosen up after 1000s of hours of listening due to wear and tear. You are probably right. Considering the cones are designed to hold their elasticity for as long as possible, this would be normal fatigue. It doesn't make them sound any better though. I think the millions of dollars put into headphone research by the design/engineering team will far outway an end user playing white noise through a speaker cone at medium volumes to 'burn it in'.

Considering interpretation of sound is a purely subjective thing, I am yet to see any scientific evidence which proves that speakers sound 'better' when you burn them in.

edit: not trolling Rip, just disagreeing.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: wap32 on Sat, 01 January 2011, 14:29:46
Quote from: gun_sl1nger;271675
If by burn in you mean loosen up after 1000s of hours of listening due to wear and tear. You are probably right. Considering the cones are designed to hold their elasticity for as long as possible, this would be normal fatigue. It doesn't make them sound any better though. I think the millions of dollars put into headphone research by the design/engineering team will far outway an end user playing white noise through a speaker cone at medium volumes to 'burn it in'.

Considering interpretation of sound is a purely subjective thing, I am yet to see any scientific evidence which proves that speakers sound 'better' when you burn them in.

edit: not trolling Rip, just disagreeing.


Burn-in, in dynamic speakers at least, is real, but it is not something you "do", it just happens.
If they end up sounding better, or even if there's much difference at all, that's for you to decide.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Sat, 01 January 2011, 15:32:04
Quote from: wap32;271685
Burn-in, in dynamic speakers at least, is real, but it is not something you "do", it just happens.
If they end up sounding better, or even if there's much difference at all, that's for you to decide.


As the discussion has lead to burn in, I felt like talking about my experience with burn in. When I bought them the store advised me that my grados will need about 100 hours of burn in to sound proper. I kinda laughed as I thought it was smoke in mirrors. Got the grados out of the box and immediately noticed they didn't sound like anything the demo pair sounded like. After about 50 hours of burn in I was starting to get nervous, the sound actually was worse then when I bought them, I was about to take them back. But I kept with, and after about 150 hours of play on them, they sounded BETTER than the demo pair in the store. How did I break mine in? Well I found a few sources. I made a playlist... High quality white noise for about one hour, high quality brown noise for another hour, 30 minute silence file,  two hours of Led Zeppelin I-IV (FLAC), half an hour of Tool Lateralus (FLAC), 2 hours of Pink Floyd The Wall and Darkside(FLAC), an hour of Primus Pork Soda(FLAC), and then one and a half hours of another silence file. I had this playlist run for about half a week, with a script that would raise and lower the volume every 10 minutes to random values (20% to 100%) If you ever consider trying to break in a pair of drivers, I recommend a similar practice.

EDIT: I forgot to mention I also used Beastie Boys Licensed to Ill (FLAC), great album for highs lows and mids.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: wap32 on Sat, 01 January 2011, 17:38:23
If I want to speed up the burn-in process, I just leave them overnight playing music at normal listening volume.

But usually I do the burn-in with the headphones on my head...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: muchadoaboutnothing on Sat, 01 January 2011, 21:18:05
Oh boy, burn in? I'm no believer in that. I think you get used to the sound signature. But let's make this an "agree to disagree" thing, because I don't think you'll find any studies on it.

(I'd be interested if you could get people who claimed to be able to hear the difference to do so in a double blind.)

Quote from: AndrewZorn;271026
This thread just reminded me how badly I needed replacement pads for my ATH-M50s, which I researched and ordered just now.  Pleather gets so sweaty and nasty.


How long did that take? I just got a pair of M50s and I'm worried about it.

A friend has some ATH-A700s and his pads are in bad shape. Well, actually, just the left one is gone; the right pad is near immaculate. Pretty odd.

Also, did you order identical OEM replacement pads or something else?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sun, 02 January 2011, 01:00:48
i used to has the Audio-Technica A900Ti's, they were great like tony the tiger.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: gun_sl1nger on Sun, 02 January 2011, 03:23:59
Quote from: muchadoaboutnothing;271846
Oh boy, burn in? I'm no believer in that. I think you get used to the sound signature. But let's make this an "agree to disagree" thing, because I don't think you'll find any studies on it.

(I'd be interested if you could get people who claimed to be able to hear the difference to do so in a double blind.)



How long did that take? I just got a pair of M50s and I'm worried about it.

A friend has some ATH-A700s and his pads are in bad shape. Well, actually, just the left one is gone; the right pad is near immaculate. Pretty odd.

Also, did you order identical OEM replacement pads or something else?

The default pads on the art series A700 and A900 are terrible. Really thin pleather. I bought the A1000 pads which are heavier, as soon as my A900 pads wore out (bits of black pleather would end up around my ears and on my shirt). They slightly change the sound (a bit bassier) but considering how non-bassy the sound is from the art series, it actually seemed to improve them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CodeChef on Sun, 02 January 2011, 15:14:31
I should read the rest of this thread but I probably won't.

I've got a pair of HD555s, foam modded of course. Running them through a homemade CMOY amp. Source is V0 MP3s on my Sansa Fuze.

Also running them off onboard sound from lappy.

Also got SoundMAGIC PL-50s for travelling light w/ the Fuze.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kill will on Sun, 02 January 2011, 23:42:44
sony mdr for monitoring

wesc for fashion haha
Title: need new headphones
Post by: Computer-Lab in Basement on Mon, 03 January 2011, 10:57:10
so i was at the gym the other day and my old crappy iPod earbuds **** the bed.  now i am using my good old Sony MDR-V150 headphones.  they are great headphones, but they are too bulky to bring back and forth to school everyday and i am sure not gonna go running on the treadmill with them.  anyone have any suggestions for decent earbud headphones?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: itlnstln on Mon, 03 January 2011, 11:20:51
I agree with didja.  The Triple.Fi 10s are pretty nice.  I have those and some ATH-M50s which I also like quite a bit.  I also got some triple flange inserts for the Triple.Fis, and that helped out a lot.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: speedlolita on Mon, 03 January 2011, 18:28:31
I've got a modest pair of Grado SR-80. The low impedance is pretty handy as I can use them with my laptop unamped and they still sound pretty damn good.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AndrewZorn on Tue, 04 January 2011, 00:14:05
Quote from: muchadoaboutnothing;271846
Oh boy, burn in? I'm no believer in that. I think you get used to the sound signature. But let's make this an "agree to disagree" thing, because I don't think you'll find any studies on it.

(I'd be interested if you could get people who claimed to be able to hear the difference to do so in a double blind.)



How long did that take? I just got a pair of M50s and I'm worried about it.

A friend has some ATH-A700s and his pads are in bad shape. Well, actually, just the left one is gone; the right pad is near immaculate. Pretty odd.

Also, did you order identical OEM replacement pads or something else?

Only a couple months.  Not terrible, but I've always hated the sweat.  I bought DT250 velour pads, they supposedly fit.

Quote from: itlnstln;272356
I agree with didja.  The Triple.Fi 10s are pretty nice.  I have those and some ATH-M50s which I also like quite a bit.  I also got some triple flange inserts for the Triple.Fis, and that helped out a lot.

Just sold the TripleFi I kept for myself from the Amazon sale, never even opened them.  I would have had the same headphone combo as you.  I just couldn't get over how long the TripleFis were, if I get earbuds, I want to be able to lie down on a pillow while using them... something I've never experienced with comfort.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kamikazekyle on Wed, 05 January 2011, 08:37:43
So, I had this nice long reply typed up but I got logged out between typing it and posting.  Therefore, this new reply will be a bit condensed (which I'm sure some will like :) )

Anyway.  Got the 595's in last night and had a go at them with Divinity 2 for 3-4 hours.  They have some amazing stereo separation and sound stage, that's for sure.  Mids/highs are clear and crisp without feeling too harsh, though they could be a little warmer for my tastes.  Bass is there and defined, though lacking body.  Fit and comfort were great, and far better than my A900s or any Grado I've used.  If I can eek up the low end a bit and keep the mids/highs clean, I'll be damn happy with the purchase.

As my Zune did nothing but tickle the headphones till 80% of max volume (and they were weaker in the low-end impact), I ran them through my FiiO E5 with the bass boost on.  That helped round out the lows and drive them a bit better, though nothing significant.  I also tried some software EQ using my computer's onboard Realtek, and while it helped, I couldn't do much without distorting the sound.  I have yet to try the headphones with my bass guitar amp.

I wound up ordering a Nuforce Icon uDAC-2 for a USB DAC and headphone amp as the FiiO didn't cut it.  From what I've read the uDAC-2 should round out the lower end a bit better than the FiiO while expanding my laptop (and other computers) outputs to RCA or Coax without needing to carry converters.  As I'm going to be travelling a good bit and using my MacBook or other desktops/laptops, having a portable USB DAC will be nice to maintain consistent sound.  If I find out I still want more shaping of the signal or additional amping, I'll probably save and get an Arrow 12HE.  The uDAC-2 should be able to do some preamping on the RCA if I want to run it into another amp or powered speaker set.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Co-Op on Wed, 05 January 2011, 08:58:47
Sennheiser HD580's... Had em for ages, and I think they are discontinued.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nowsharing on Wed, 05 January 2011, 10:31:05
Here's my budget setup:
Fuze LOD -> PA2V2 -> Grado SR80

I picked up the PA2V2 and a pair of Senn PX100s for $40 and sniped the Grados for $35.

I'm jealous of the awesome setups that everyone has, but happy enough with this rig for the moment.


What a horrible picture. Oh well, you get the idea.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ChThoniC on Wed, 05 January 2011, 11:34:26
I use Beyerdynamic DT770-80s at home, straight from my sound card. Love the sounds, great for any kind of music and especially for games/movies. Had them for almost four years, and they were a really great investment.

I use MEElectroics M9 for all portable uses... I can't believe how good they sound for $13. I see myself purchasing from this manufacturer again, whether I need another pair of earphones that I will probably break or want a slightly more expensive IEM.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kamikazekyle on Wed, 05 January 2011, 13:20:12
Quote from: nowsharing;273492
Here's my budget setup:
Fuze LOD -> PA2V2 -> Grado SR80

I picked up the PA2V2 and a pair of Senn PX100s for $40 and sniped the Grados for $35.

I'm jealous of the awesome setups that everyone has, but happy enough with this rig for the moment.


What a horrible picture. Oh well, you get the idea.


Wow, that's some pretty good deals.  I also like your patch setup with the Fuze to the PA2V2.  I wound up getting the FiiO E5 as it was cheap and the size of a 2nd gen iPod shuffle, though it never reall did a whole heck of a lot for most IEMs I used on it.

I wish I knew what I did with my Grados.  I know the wiring in one of the ear pieces was coming loose, though I figured I could fix it.  I probably lost it/accidentally tossed them out during a move.  Hell, I only have 2 CDs left from before I moved into my house a year ago.  Between a theft and two moves, they've all disappeared.  Which sucks, as I hadn't yet ripped them all and some were only ripped in 192kb MP3, not FLAC.

Come to think of it, I lose a lot of stuff every time I move :P
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Brodie337 on Wed, 05 January 2011, 15:30:25
I don't know if this is really the place to ask, but I was just wondering if you think I'd see alot of improvement if I was to buy a headphone amp for my HD555s, which I've done the 595 mod on?

Is it worth it? Where do I start looking for an amp in Australia, and what amps do I look out for?

Thanks,
Brodie.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 05 January 2011, 16:23:28
I'd recommend buying a DAC/amp. Don't amplify a ****ty source to make a giant ****ty.

I'd recomend the MATRIX MINI-I from ebay as a good starting point.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Wed, 05 January 2011, 16:44:42
Quote from: panda-R;273662
I'd recommend buying a DAC/amp. Don't amplify a ****ty source to make a giant ****ty.

Panda's are furry but wise. Stay digital until the DAC/amp + headphones (or speakers).
Many PC motherboards (and other equipment) today have optical or coaxial digital output.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 06 January 2011, 00:13:22
big poo big poo!!!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Brodie337 on Thu, 06 January 2011, 00:45:21
Thanks guys, I'll look into it. While I like my music to sound nice, I've never really looked into PC audio much.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CodeChef on Thu, 06 January 2011, 18:38:34
ah man, nowsharing, where'd you get the Fuze cable end? Where'd you get the pinout for that matter? I've been meaning to do that for a while but i couldn't find either of those things. BTW, the standard audio out of the Fuze (and Clip) is really one of the best out there.

Lanx, ABI (Anythingbutipod) is the GH of audio. They seem pretty modest but they're actually incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. Say Hi to Andreas while you're there, he's awesome :)

Do you guys want pics? If no one's going to look at them I'm not going all the way upstairs for my camera...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nowsharing on Thu, 06 January 2011, 19:13:59
Quote
where'd you get the Fuze cable end?

$12 shipped on Ebay: http://shop.ebay.com/items/?_nkw=fuze+lod (http://shop.ebay.com/items/?_nkw=fuze+lod). I'm really happy with the quality of it. About 6 months ago the only options were $30+.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Thu, 06 January 2011, 19:38:40
My list of cans:

Grado SR325i with reversed HD414 pads (quarter modded)
Shure SRH840 with straight cable
Sony MDR-V6 with Beyerdynamic DT250 pads
Sennheiser HD580 with 600 grilles, 650 cable/headband
Monster Turbine  /w triple flange modded to bi flange tips
Westone UM1 with comply tips (given to me at canjam chicago 2009 by westone rep)

Amp/DAC:

Little Dot I+ with M8083 tubes and OPA2107 op amp
SMSL mini-dac sd-793 with OPA2107 op amp
Headroom Total Bithead (given to me at canjam chicago 2009 by Headroom rep)

My girlfriend usually uses SR80i with the total bithead, while I use the mini-dac -> little dot I+.

a comment on the monsters, I got them for 65$ and they have great synergy with the motorola droid.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Thu, 06 January 2011, 19:50:37
Quote from: ripster;274279
Hey, you just voted for me in the Troll poll!

You need to upgrade to Senny HD595s.


You're the only person I saw trolling so far, but it's all funny.

Forgive me, sir!

And I have done countless HD555 to HD595 mods. I do like the phones, but the SRH840 are my gaming cans. Also, HD600 is better than HD595 (overpriced HD555's), afterall... the NUMBER IS BIGGAR! :O

I am also the self appointed organizer for omaha area head-fi meets. I've done one so far, this year. I'll be doing next year's for sure. Somehow I wrangled in 1600$ worth of raffle prizes for the event. It had it's perks too, i was one of the first people to get to listen to hifiman's latest, the RE-262, and I got a free loan of HD800 plus the ultra desktop setup from headroom for like 2 weeks at no cost to me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Shawn Stanford on Fri, 07 January 2011, 07:19:59
I love this site so much...

As I've gotten older my hearing has gone south and my lifelong tinitis has gone north. At this point, comfort and convenience are as important to me as sound quality. I have a couple sets of earbuds, but I don't remember what they are. A cheap pair of Sonys, I think.

Oh, wait... *rummage* *rummage* Here's a pair in my desk at work. Icemat Audio? Meh, whatever...

I have an old set of Sony MDRs that I bought when I worked at Sony fifteen years ago. They cost me $35, which was something like 75% off list. They're open and sound really good, but they pinch my ears after a while.

I have a couple sets of Bose Around-the-Ear headphones. The first set I bought at Nellis AFB before I deployed in '08. I used them extensively that year and they were very comfortable with good isolation. They also travel surprisingly well.

I really don't have much need for headphones or earbuds day-to-day. At my computer at home I use the speakers built into the TV I'm using as a monitor. At work, I have an old pair of cheap speakers from somewhere. They don't even have a brand name. That's okay, since all I need to hear are the occasional warning beeps.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Fri, 07 January 2011, 07:51:05
i have a few pairs of inexpensive headphones and some other cheap iems that i don't remember the model numbers to
jvc ha-rx700
audio technica ath-ad300
audio technica ath-ad700

oh and source is generally computer -> optical -> old yamaha rx-v795 -> headphones

i'm returning the 595s, i think i'm going to step up to the beyerdynamic dt880s since i'm only concerned with gaming performance and comfort
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pfink on Fri, 07 January 2011, 11:43:59
After joining Head-Fi late last year I spent more money on audio gear in a month than I did on keyboards the entire year...ouch.

Anyway, at work I'm currently using a pair of Shure SRH440's, source is an iPod Classic 160GB->LOD->cMoy amp.

At home it's a modded pair of Grado SR60i's through a NuForce uDAC on my computer. The headphone setup on my main audio rig is a SlimDevices Squeezebox III->Maverick Audio D1->Musical Fidelity V-CAN->Grado HF-2's.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lootbag on Fri, 07 January 2011, 12:59:42
this is as far as I journeyed into the audiophile world.
so expensive!

old mobile setup:
- iPod Touch 3G
- Whiplash Audio SCSCag Viablue LOD
- RSA Predator DAC/AMP
- Westone 3s

(http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/3481/4379492004d642c73e11z.jpg)

all I have left now are a iPod 5G, the Westone 3s and a pair of Grado SR-80s.
good enough for me :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CodeChef on Fri, 07 January 2011, 16:04:55
Just picked up a pair of HD280Pros for 75 bucks free shipping from Newegg... I would post the deal but it was a code and I don't have the email anymore...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Fri, 07 January 2011, 16:29:52
Quote from: CodeChef;274837
Just picked up a pair of HD280Pros for 75 bucks free shipping from Newegg... I would post the deal but it was a code and I don't have the email anymore...


Let us hear how you like them when you get them. I've heard mostly bad things about them myself, but $75 sounds like a good price.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CodeChef on Fri, 07 January 2011, 16:43:09
Yeah, I've heard generally good things but that they're not as good as M50s for their price, but this is a much better deal... Anyways, I've been looking for closed cans since I got my 555s and now I have them so yay!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AndrewZorn on Fri, 07 January 2011, 23:42:44
You guys got me bidding on a used $200 amp.  After I realized it, I was glad I was outbid.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Fri, 07 January 2011, 23:51:48
$117USD HD595's tommorow! YES!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaaTa on Fri, 07 January 2011, 23:58:17
I have a pair of HD280's, been happy with them. And have lasted the beating of being brought around the world on airplanes, many hours of greyhounds, and such.

To me, they're good enough.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 08 January 2011, 00:22:15
the problem i find with headphone amplifiers are that they don't have enough MegaWatts to fry my headphones or make Dr. Walter Jenning glow like a bad ass.

(http://img64.imageshack.us/img64/1020/11588122ww1.png)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 08 January 2011, 00:31:48
nothing is worse than the phantom menace!

Howard the duck is one of those awesome movies that you can't watch when you're older than 8, other wise the awesomeness decreases exponentially with age.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Sat, 08 January 2011, 01:33:34
Quote from: ripster;275021
Link to the  Gilmore Lite Amp webpage (http://www.headamp.com/home_amps/lite/index.htm) just to say you can't buy it anymore!  

However GS-1s at $900 are still being sold.  Damn those suckers are spendy!
Show Image
(http://www.headamp.com/home_amps/gs1/images/gs1_silver_phones_med.jpg)


GS 1000's?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Conditioned on Sat, 08 January 2011, 02:50:15
I´m using the AKG701´s which I kinda hate/love. I love them cause when I plug them into my asus essence stx and change ohm (even though its not really needed but it does add some 'bouncieness' to the sound) they sound really/U] good. But they arent very comfortable imho. Maybe its cause I shave my head.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Sat, 08 January 2011, 06:55:19
Quote from: Conditioned;275065
I´m using the AKG701´s which I kinda hate/love. I love them cause when I plug them into my asus essence stx and change ohm (even though its not really needed but it does add some 'bouncieness' to the sound) they sound really/U] good. But they arent very comfortable imho. Maybe its cause I shave my head.

I shave my head every now and then, and I always have had a very short hair style. Regardless I find the K701's very comfortable, and I can use them for quite long periods sometimes. I have to admit the K601's do seem like they would be even more comfortable, but I haven't had any issue so I'm not about to downgrade.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Sat, 08 January 2011, 07:37:57
Quote from: aynjell;275045
GS 1000's?


No. The GS-1 is a Head-Amp headphone amp.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NimbleRabit on Sat, 08 January 2011, 17:26:25
(http://imgur.com/U4yq2h.jpg)

ATH-AD700, JVC RX900, and Allesandro MS1.  

Those are my headphones, as well as some IEM's that I don't have a picture of (SoundMagic PL-50).  It's sad how many people with amazing computers, that are on them constantly, aren't willing to spend a little for good peripherals like headphones and keyboards.  Of course, don't be like me and end up with 3 different pairs of headphones that all work just fine.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Keymonger on Sat, 08 January 2011, 18:51:28
Quote from: NimbleRabit;275376
It's sad how many people with amazing computers, that are on them constantly, aren't willing to spend a little for good peripherals like headphones and keyboards.  

So true. Of course some people's idea of spending money on a keyboard is buying one with a pointless built-in screen... sigh.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ricercar on Sat, 08 January 2011, 18:57:04
Quote from: panda-R;275026
the problem i find with headphone amplifiers are that they don't have enough MegaWatts to fry my headphones or make Dr. Walter Jenning glow like a bad ass.


I got one of these 6-channel Headphone Amplifier with 20W per Channel when my band couldn't hear the monitors:

(http://www.sweetwater.com/images/items/1800/HA6-xlarge.jpg)

Linky to buy (http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/HA6/)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sun, 09 January 2011, 00:07:06
HD595 = awesome. Bass heads steer clear.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Sun, 09 January 2011, 04:10:53
More bass?

Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Sun, 09 January 2011, 04:39:00
Can he still HEAR? D:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Sun, 09 January 2011, 05:58:19
No. He can only feel the bass.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kamikazekyle on Mon, 10 January 2011, 10:06:10
I've been using the Senn 595's for about a week now, sometimes right off the source and sometimes off a uDAC2/FiiO E5 combo.  Love the sound (needs a little rounding out in the low end).  But I've noticed something odd that came about after first listening to the 595's.  It feels like I have inner ear pressure or a head cold.  It's weird.  I can hear everything perfectly fine, and I haven't increased volumes or noticed any less sounds that I've heard before.  I think I'm hearing *more* sounds -- right now I can hear the ticking of my pocket watch in my pocket.

The subjective volume on the 595's is the same as any other headphone or IEM.  I was watching a movie a little last night and I had the volume so low I couldn't distinguish voices.  I checked with my girlfriend and she didn't indicate the volume was too loud.  

I don't have any pressure or pain while using the headphones or any constant source of sound.  More like the pressure/head cold feeling comes about after sound goes to low ambient levels.

I didn't use the headphones for two days, but wasn't paying attention to the ear pressure during that time.

So, aside from the weird ear pressure issue that might/might not be caused by the headphones, I'm liking them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jerri on Mon, 10 January 2011, 17:12:46
I'm using the Sennheiser PC 360 Headset. For gaming it is ok, if you hear music while you're playing games, i like it, too. But i've to crank the Volume Pot of the Headset, because there must be something like a cap on the Vol Pot, because if you turn the Volume on the headphones down, it creates a stupid loudness effect.
No problem for myself, because on the Breakout Box of the Creative X-Fi Elite Pro you can turn the Master Volume up and down. It's a pitty that i don't have a headphone amplifier yet.

For serious music listening i prefer my old hifi stereo (Infinity Renaissance 90 Speakers + Nakamichi PA-7 Amps).

Cheers

Jerri
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CodeChef on Mon, 10 January 2011, 19:14:24
"because there must be something like a cap on the Vol Pot, because if you turn the Volume on the headphones down, it creates a stupid loudness effect."

Most improperly-designed volume post do this. In fact, I've never seen it in the audio world, only in guitar electronics. The way to counteract this is called a treble-bleed circuit. It lets the highs pass so the volume pot doesn't cut them.

Also, my 280Pros came! I'm now thinking of selling my 555s because I like the sound of the 280s enough to make them my only cans and I need a closed pair of cans more than I like to be able to hear stuff when I use my open cans at home (and only at home, you can't use them anywhere else)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JLaz on Mon, 10 January 2011, 21:01:07
Hi, long time lurker around here and I would want to ask for advice from you guys.

I am thinking of buying headphones for gaming, music and movies. I will use them with my Asus g72gx. I am a competetive gamer in Starcraft 2 and would want quality sound and comfort. I've been looking at the UE Triplefi 10 pros and ATH-m50. Still torn with the full-size vs earbud thing.

Maybe someone has owned both and I would be glad to hear from you. Maybe you have other suggestions?

Added Info:
I am from the Philippines and the m50s cost as much as the Triplefis here. for around USD200. For the same price, which one would be more suitable for my needs?

Available brands here are Senn, Ultimate Ears, Bose, Koss, AT, Sony, Phillips.

Summary:
1. It has to sound really good(pref just with my laptop and no amp)
2. It has to be closed/isolating
3. It has to portable as I game on-the-go and in tournaments
4. It has to be somewhat comfortable
5. Build quality should be decent
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CodeChef on Mon, 10 January 2011, 21:20:21
Check out the Sony MDR-V6. They are a classic recommendation as they sound very good all around and have a fairly flat, balanced sound signature. Probably the best choice for your stated use would be the AT-AD700, but those are open-back headphones. If you do look into IEMs (In-ear monitors, the ones that go deep in your ear canal and seal off the outside world) I would suggest Etymotic MC5s or the Phonak PFE... The PFE is probably a better choice as they are (supposed to be) more comfortable, especially over long periods of time.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JLaz on Mon, 10 January 2011, 21:39:47
Thank you for the quick response.

The Sonys ARE classics. Actually, I'm totally sold to the Triplefi as of the moment and my only worry is the cable issues and the socket popping out ( as i have read online). As for availability to me, the Phonaks and Etymotics aren't available. The triplefis cost 200usd here and the Shure, Westone, and Senn IEMs cost around 400usd.

Are the build quality issues too bad? Or are those comments are overstated?

I am really sold to the portability of IEMs and the sound they offer with it unless Full-size headphones are THAT of beast when it comes to sound.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Mon, 10 January 2011, 22:54:35
For non positional audio, the V6 are amazing. For positional audio, I dig my Shure SRh840's. The best all around deal is the HD555 modded to HD595. IEMs have never impressed me, except for the RE-262 which are not commercially available yet. The monster turbine is about 1/3 of a 262 with a different frequency response curve.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jerri on Tue, 11 January 2011, 01:54:21
Quote from: CodeChef;276365
Most improperly-designed volume post do this. In fact, I've never seen it in the audio world, only in guitar electronics. The way to counteract this is called a treble-bleed circuit. It lets the highs pass so the volume pot doesn't cut them.

NO it's not like a Treble bleed, more like a bass bleed ;). It's really not like that sound correction for low volumes. It's more like a "the kids think this thing has a to weak Bass" (well it's relatively natural).
And if the volumepot is down, the mids almost disappear, too. With the bypassed Pot they sound way more open.

And my guitar doesn't have a treble bleed circuit, only a 500k linear volume Pot. A Marshall is bright enough already, when you play clean with the neck Singlecoil ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Tue, 11 January 2011, 11:57:08
Quote from: Jerri;276310
But i've to crank the Volume Pot of the Headset, because there must be something like a cap on the Vol Pot, because if you turn the Volume on the headphones down, it creates a stupid loudness effect.
What you are hearing there is the interaction of the variable series resistance provided by the volume pot (yeah, it's that primitive) with the frequency-dependent headphone driver impedance. Complex voltage divider. You can go here (http://www.headphone.com/learning-center/build-a-graph.php) and plot the impedance curve of, say, a PX100 to get an idea of how it typically looks like. For drivers this size, there typically is a big hump in the bass region which results in said "loudness" effect.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Tue, 11 January 2011, 15:11:08
So I didn't order the HD595, even though I posted the Amazon deal a while back.  I put them in my cart and slept on it, and sure enough they were back to normal price the next morning.

I did order the HD555 for less than the HD595 deal price, after reading that they are essentially the same after removing some foam.  At the same time I picked up the Grado SR225i to compare with the SR80i that I got my brother for xmas (http://hollywoodjane.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/futurama.png).

The HD555 is WAY laid back compared to either of the Grados.  I expected the Grados to be bright, and they are, but I like both of them quite a lot.  The HD555 in comparison sounds like listening to speakers hidden behind a heavy curtain or two.  Does the HD595 mod make a ton of difference or should I not bother modding and send these back?  As they sound today, I'm not really even tempted to keep them around as a nice alternative to the Grados when I'm not in the mood for brightness, I'd rather get something with more interesting qualities, even if it means spending more.

That said, the HD555's circumaural pads are VERY comfortable, with both of the supra-aural Grados with either flats/comfies (SR80i) or bowls (SR225i) kinda hard on the ears after a long listening session.  I tried Grado's circumaural G-CUSH (http://www.amazon.com/Grado-G-CUSH-Headphone-Cushion-GS1000i/dp/B0039VP3X6) pads (designed for the higher-end Grados), and they do feel very comfortable, but the drivers in the SR225i are a very poor match; lows and mids are cut, so I have to increase the volume, but the volume increase makes the highs way too shrill to enjoy.  I just got a pair of the HD414 pads that are pretty comfy, though I prefer the sound of the bowls.

Anyone have the Denon AH-D2000?  I'm thinking of sending back the Sennheisers and picking these up to complement the Grados.  I do listen to a good bit of hip hop that would sound nice with a little more thump, and some of the really edgy and loud metal/rock/rap can grate on the ears a bit with the Grado sound.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 11 January 2011, 15:46:15
Quote from: RoboKrikit;276940
So I didn't order the HD595, even though I posted the Amazon deal a while back.  I put them in my cart and slept on it, and sure enough they were back to normal price the next morning.

I did order the HD555 for less than the HD595 deal price, after reading that they are essentially the same after removing some foam.  At the same time I picked up the Grado SR225i to compare with the SR80i that I got my brother for xmas (http://hollywoodjane.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/futurama.png).

The HD555 is WAY laid back compared to either of the Grados.  I expected the Grados to be bright, and they are, but I like both of them quite a lot.  The HD555 in comparison sounds like listening to speakers hidden behind a heavy curtain or two.  Does the HD595 mod make a ton of difference or should I not bother modding and send these back?  As they sound today, I'm not really even tempted to keep them around as a nice alternative to the Grados when I'm not in the mood for brightness, I'd rather get something with more interesting qualities, even if it means spending more.

That said, the HD555's circumaural pads are VERY comfortable, with both of the supra-aural Grados with either flats/comfies (SR80i) or bowls (SR225i) kinda hard on the ears after a long listening session.  I tried Grado's circumaural G-CUSH (http://www.amazon.com/Grado-G-CUSH-Headphone-Cushion-GS1000i/dp/B0039VP3X6) pads (designed for the higher-end Grados), and they do feel very comfortable, but the drivers in the SR225i are a very poor match; lows and mids are cut, so I have to increase the volume, but the volume increase makes the highs way too shrill to enjoy.  I just got a pair of the HD414 pads that are pretty comfy, though I prefer the sound of the bowls.

Anyone have the Denon AH-D2000?  I'm thinking of sending back the Sennheisers and picking these up to complement the Grados.  I do listen to a good bit of hip hop that would sound nice with a little more thump, and some of the really edgy and loud metal/rock/rap can grate on the ears a bit with the Grado sound.


If you prefer the sound of the bowls but the comfort of the HD414, do what I did:

Using the existing hole as a guide on your 414 pads, cut a hole on the opposite side of your 414 pads. Don't worry too much about the actual cleanliness of the hole since it won't be "customer facing". It's actually the hole used to hold the pad to the driver housing now. The old driver housing hole is now the customer facing hole. Enjoy.

The sound is better, more powerful and punchy... and more refined in my opinion. What is more, it's heavier, and ... more? the word more comes to mind. It's fuller, richer, heavier. More engrossing, at least to me.


End result should be similar to something like this (http://media.photobucket.com/image/HD414%20quarter%20m/Asrale/ms2i_x1.jpg)!

In regards to your HD555: The differences in audio is a lot like salt, btw. A pinch of salt by itself tastes terrible, but a pinch of salt in a dinner sized helping can make all the difference. The mod is about like a pinch of salt in your dinner. It doesn't completely transform the dish, but it does add to it, and in this case a bit more of what's already there. It brings out some of the detail and increases the sound-staging, so I hear. Bottom line: If you don't like them now, send them back.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MissileMike on Tue, 11 January 2011, 15:54:32
I have used a pair of grado sr60's for many years.  Maybe it's time for a new set :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Tue, 11 January 2011, 16:26:23
Quote from: aynjell;276968
If you prefer the sound of the bowls but the comfort of the HD414, do what I did:


Thanks, I think I'll give that a shot!

For the record, I don't dislike the sound of the HD555, I just prefer the two Grados I tried for most of the stuff I listen to, and if I were to own two sets of cans I'd go for something more complementary to the Grado sound.  The 555s are pretty dark and neutral, and aren't enough to make me want to take off the SR225i to hear something through a different kaleidoscope.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 11 January 2011, 16:39:48
Quote from: RoboKrikit;276998
Thanks, I think I'll give that a shot!

For the record, I don't dislike the sound of the HD555, I just prefer the two Grados I tried for most of the stuff I listen to, and if I were to own two sets of cans I'd go for something more complementary to the Grado sound.  The 555s are pretty dark and neutral, and aren't enough to make me want to take off the SR225i to hear something through a different kaleidoscope.

I myself have SR325i, and my alternative kaleidoscope as you put it, is the Shure SRH840. The SRH840 is heavy, but I find that it's different enough that it makes a good alternative. What is more, it's amazing for a closed can, so it's a good alternative for that reason too. Another point is, I sold my ATH-AD700 because SRH840's gaming performance was that good.

Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 11 January 2011, 21:29:31
I like my HD595's but those dam grados have been tempting me forever.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Tue, 11 January 2011, 22:41:36
Great-os or Grate-os?

(http://steveearly.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/cringe.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Tue, 11 January 2011, 23:19:30
Quote from: ripster;277183
I find Grados degrading.

Me too, they are just so great that in their price range, they truly de-grade all other headphones out there. (http://www.pornplayedbackwards.com/Futaba2/src/1293587260612.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NimbleRabit on Wed, 12 January 2011, 11:30:23
My grados (actually, allesandros) are my favorites out of all the headphones I have - so much fun to listen to.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: quadibloc on Wed, 12 January 2011, 15:36:03
And here I thought a Grado was a kind of phonograph cartridge.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 12 January 2011, 15:36:46
IIRC, Grado does make phonograph cartridges.

EDIT: They do.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 12 January 2011, 16:51:34
They do make phono carts, and grado will be my first stop when I buy a turntable. Just gotta make sure I buy a compatible table. :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Voyager on Fri, 14 January 2011, 04:37:53
Sennheiser HD555 into Terratec PHASE 24FW.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: quadibloc on Fri, 14 January 2011, 17:56:21
Quote from: itlnstln;277518
EDIT: They do.
I knew that. What I didn't know was that they made headphones.

However, what I found appealing (I bought the lower-priced one, many years back) was the high-output (which meant you could use it with a regular hi-fi setup, not requiring a special pre-preamp) moving coil from Ortofon.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CodeChef on Fri, 14 January 2011, 20:15:22
Quote from: Voyager;278394
Sennheiser HD555 into Terratec PHASE 24FW.


You're using your Sennheiser as a source? That must sound TERRIBLE!

:P



I've decided the 280Pros are too uncomfortable and that the 555s spoiled me with their delicious velour love. To that end I think I'm going to sell both and pick up a pair of DT770s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Fri, 14 January 2011, 22:02:16
Currently listening to HD600's. Love 'em.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Fri, 14 January 2011, 22:58:48
Quote from: aynjell;278841
Currently listening to HD600's. Love 'em.


What'd amp are you using, I was thinking about buying/trying these in the near future
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Sat, 15 January 2011, 00:26:05
Quote from: ironman31;278856
What'd amp are you using, I was thinking about buying/trying these in the near future


I bought the headphones anticipating a better amp but unfortunately that never happened. presently I'm using a Little Dot I+. It seems to suit me well for all my other cans, but not for these. It's better now with a higher gain mode and the right tubes but it wasn't meant for HD600's at all. More grados than anything.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Sat, 15 January 2011, 00:56:24
he90,r10,o2,ps1k,010 among others.
apex pinnacle,hp4 among others.

all i do is write code while i listen to music. that's my life :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: msiegel on Sat, 15 January 2011, 01:00:31
so you're saying... music goes in one end, and code comes out the other? ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Sat, 15 January 2011, 01:10:13
Quote from: typo;278875
he90,r10,o2,ps1k,010 among others.
apex pinnacle,hp4 among others.

all i do is write code while i listen to music. that's my life :)


Please tell me you live in nebraska.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Voyager on Sat, 15 January 2011, 05:46:33
Quote from: CodeChef;278808
You're using your Sennheiser as a source? That must sound TERRIBLE!

:P



I've decided the 280Pros are too uncomfortable and that the 555s spoiled me with their delicious velour love. To that end I think I'm going to sell both and pick up a pair of DT770s.


Looks like my English has epically failed :(.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: George7 on Sat, 15 January 2011, 07:43:14
I bought a pair of DT770 Pro Headphones about 3 years ago for £77 and they're absolutely fantastic. My friend has them at the moment and I miss them greatly. One of my best purchases ever I think as they cost upwards of £130 now!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 15 January 2011, 13:04:14
Quote from: Voyager;278937
Looks like my English has epically failed :(.

nah, i understood what you were saying. That guy is american so that is to blame :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 15 January 2011, 13:13:22
Quote from: ripster;279058
A Ugly American at that!

So, I herd you like Hippy Girls.  What about Cheerleaders?  They have them in your foreign  country?


i like the hot ones!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: quadibloc on Sat, 15 January 2011, 13:44:08
Quote from: Voyager;278937
Looks like my English has epically failed :(.
Given that headphones usually come with male phono plugs, you certainly do plug your headphones into your preamp.

It's true that when describing a hi-fi system, sometimes one speaks of things in source to output order: Goldmund Reference with Koetsu Rosewood Signature Platinum into Quicksilver MC into Quicksilver Full into Krell Evolution e into KEF Muons.

But this is a hi-fi convention, not standard English usage.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Sat, 15 January 2011, 14:47:25
Quote from: George7;278965
I bought a pair of DT770 Pro Headphones about 3 years ago for £77 and they're absolutely fantastic. My friend has them at the moment and I miss them greatly. One of my best purchases ever I think as they cost upwards of £130 now!

I have the grado sr80i.  They completely changed my perspective on audio.  I really want a good pair of closed phones too.  I am most excited about the possibliity of customizing the DT770's through beyer's website, but that method starts at $299 (before shipping) and you can easily add $60+ in options.  They're the same as the silver ones you can grab on amazon for $179, but how can you pass up custom headphones?  I think that pro version is discontinued, which might explain the price jump.  It seems like they completely dropped that dj section from their website.

Correction: the DJ section is no longer blank and the pro's are listed there again.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 15 January 2011, 16:56:02
Love is our resistance!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: quadibloc on Sat, 15 January 2011, 18:57:29
Quote from: ripster;279167
Ohmmmmm.......(ah hell, there's plenty of the yoda pic elsewhere).
Mani padme hum.

But then, 60-cycle hum is usually a sign of an impedance mismatch. And don't get me started about Natalie Portman.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Sat, 15 January 2011, 22:31:22
i see quadbloc knows whats up :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 15 January 2011, 23:25:21
quadibloc is from Canada! i like him/her already.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sun, 16 January 2011, 00:00:07
dat kinda hot
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: George7 on Sun, 16 January 2011, 09:16:06
Quote from: digitalleftovers;279105
I have the grado sr80i.  They completely changed my perspective on audio.  I really want a good pair of closed phones too.  I am most excited about the possibliity of customizing the DT770's through beyer's website, but that method starts at $299 (before shipping) and you can easily add $60+ in options.  They're the same as the silver ones you can grab on amazon for $179, but how can you pass up custom headphones?  I think that pro version is discontinued, which might explain the price jump.  It seems like they completely dropped that dj section from their website.

Correction: the DJ section is no longer blank and the pro's are listed there again.

I kinda fancy a pair of open headphones too, to go alongside my DT770s. The DT770s are fantastic and sounded, and blocked out noise a hell of a lot better than my friend's battery powered noise cancelling headphones which cost him around £60. However, I'd also like something open as I'm not too bothered about noise cancellation + noise leakage when I'm sitting in my room!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sugoi on Sun, 16 January 2011, 11:35:39
I use beyerdynamics DT 880 Pro (250 ohm version). Teared a huge hole into my purse (...) but it's definitely been worth each single cent.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CodeChef on Sun, 16 January 2011, 17:33:26
Natalie Portman can pad me any time she wants...

That was bad. I apologize.

Anyone wanna buy my 555s? They're minty fresh! :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Sun, 16 January 2011, 19:35:40
Wow, rather a lot of people use Beyerdynamics. *thumbs up*
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: johnnysasaki on Sun, 16 January 2011, 21:58:15
Just nabbed a FUBAR IV DAC + headphone amp when I found out my uncle grabbed me a pair of ATH-M50 phones. They are so hard to find in Canada (at a decent price) but more easily found in HK. Should be fun. Plugging into the computer audio jack just doesn't cut it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Sun, 16 January 2011, 22:04:33
Natalie Portman was amazing in Black Swan.

I still need to decide on a set of headphones but will prob end up with a closed set and an open set.  Most of the time I want to block out noise so I'm really leaning toward the Denon D2000's.  For open it would be Senn 555-650's.

Been focusing more on amps/dacs and sources lately.

Anyone ever tried Stax? (http://www.stax.co.jp/Export/ExportProducts.html)

(http://assets.head-fi.org/0/0f/1000x500px-LL-0f978404_1024.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Sun, 16 January 2011, 22:28:46
Wife says I can't get these:

(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-sQ6TN93LvU/TTPHaVIwa1I/AAAAAAAABp8/bmqEdVqGc_w/s800/Stax_Headphones_Worn.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Sun, 16 January 2011, 22:46:37
Got the screener on bittorrent, had no idea what it was when we watched it.  Plenty of surprises!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Mon, 17 January 2011, 02:58:29
Screeners are just terrible. No point in watching good movies with that quality.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Mon, 17 January 2011, 08:48:29
Quote from: ripster;279712
Does this mean I don't have to pay for your Ebay keyboards anymore?


Who's selling keyboards?  I'm selling electronics test equipment (http://shop.ebay.com/didjamatic/m.html) this week.  :)  

Quote from: db_Iodine;279745
Screeners are just terrible. No point in watching good movies with that quality.


The quality on the one I got for Black Swan was the best i'd seen in a long time.  Then again, we're on a 36" CRT with XBMC/Orig Xbox as a source.  But it was definitely DVD comparable.  It's the one that's 1.x GB and the only weirdness is a brief watermark at the beginning of the film.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Mon, 17 January 2011, 09:57:33
Ever since he invented solid state electronics he has been opposed to that warm vintage tube vibe.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jerri on Mon, 17 January 2011, 15:59:23
Quote from: ripster;279837
Tube rectifiers!   I have a guitar amp with those smooth tube rectified analog electrons.  I don't think Al Gore would be pleased though.


Selfmade amp? Or which model? ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Tue, 18 January 2011, 01:21:40
does anyone else here have high end headphone gear? i was just wondering what anyone had. nowdays there is no shortage of super expensive phones/dacs/amps to choose from.

i doubt i will get the new ultrasone edition. don't like them. i am sure i will get the new stax.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Mon, 07 February 2011, 22:44:42
Been using Denon AH-D2000's and a FIIO E7 portable amp/USB DAC for a week now... LOVE IT!!!   FYI, the FIIO is scorable for $75 free ship if you make an offer to the US seller on ebay.  That's cheap.  So far I say it's worth it, especially as a USB DAC.  There are bundles with a E9 dock/desktop amp that can push high ohm cans for under $200 total online as well.  I'm waiting on that until I see what comes out from some manufacturers over the next months, including the E15 from FIIO.

But these headphones are amazing.  A great counterpart to my Ultimate Ears TripleFi 10vi's.  The Denons are actually pretty efficient and don't sound horrible straight out of an Ipod.  They sound fantastic on a home receiver.

(http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/9859/img0160mj9.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Tue, 08 February 2011, 00:20:22
I don't even want to post an update on where my audio adventures have taken me over the last month. Suffice to say I have these D2000s now also (and an armful of other stuff) and I love them, and I blame geekhack.

I got 2 new tubes in the mail today. :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 08 February 2011, 01:40:53
Quote from: typo;280228
does anyone else here have high end headphone gear? i was just wondering what anyone had. nowdays there is no shortage of super expensive phones/dacs/amps to choose from.

i doubt i will get the new ultrasone edition. don't like them. i am sure i will get the new stax.


On the headphone side of things I'm entering the mid to high end, but I'm not at the far reaches of space (HD800, T1, R10, Stax, etc). I have SR325i, and HD580. Which are already on the far reaches of space for normal people, but just beginning for headphone users.

I also have SRH840, and boy does it sound good but the build quality is just plain crap.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Tue, 08 February 2011, 11:44:22
Quote from: aynjell;291649
I also have SRH840, and boy does it sound good but the build quality is just plain crap.

Interesting, hadn't heard about that. What's the problem?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cgoldberg on Tue, 08 February 2011, 12:27:59
I like over-the-ear style headphones...

I used Grado SR80's for years... great sound but dorky looking:
(http://www.gradolabs.com/09_images/sr80i.png)

Recently I switched to Beats by Dre (Solo model):
(http://www.beatsbydres.com/pic/201011191737081787.jpg)

These Beats are my fav headphones I've ever owned.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 08 February 2011, 13:17:39
Quote from: keyb_gr;291804
Interesting, hadn't heard about that. What's the problem?

The headband is unnecessarily large, and too thin for how big it is. And it just falls apart. It was coming apart within a year.

Quote from: cgoldberg;291822
I like over-the-ear style headphones...

I used Grado SR80's for years... great sound but dorky looking:
Show Image
(http://www.gradolabs.com/09_images/sr80i.png)


Recently I switched to Beats by Dre (Solo model):
Show Image
(http://www.beatsbydres.com/pic/201011191737081787.jpg)


These Beats are my fav headphones I've ever owned.

I'm shocked that a pair of SR80's could be bested by a pair fo beats. Sounds to me like you appreciate bloated bass. The beats are just terribad.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cgoldberg on Tue, 08 February 2011, 13:27:10
Quote from: aynjell;291852
I'm shocked that a pair of SR80's could be bested by a pair fo beats. Sounds to me like you appreciate bloated bass. The beats are just terribad.


Well.. in a quiet listening environment... with a headphone amp... and only considering sound quality... The Grado's sound better.

however...

I mostly use these during my subway commute and walking in the city.  The Beats have a punchier bass and sound really nice over street traffic and the rails :) (I don't like full noise cancelling because I need to be somewhat aware of my environment).

pros for the Beats:
- bassss
- collapsible
- detachable high quality cord
- comes with volume control on cord, and spare version without (I prefer without)
- comes with case
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Thu, 10 February 2011, 00:03:39
Question for you OPEN headphone owners, especially Senn 595-650's and Beyerdynamic DT880's and similar...

Can you hear a phone ring easily with them on?

Would the sound leakage annoy someone over a 6ft cube wall in a moderately quiet office?

I'm thinking of trying opens so I'm not so shut out at the office but don't want to annoy anyone.  If its at a reasonable volume (Milton) I wouldn't be concerned and can't imagine them being that loud since I don't like damaging my ears.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Thu, 10 February 2011, 00:04:46
Question for you OPEN headphone owners, especially Senn 595-650's and Beyerdynamic DT880's and similar...

Can you hear a phone ring easily with them on?

Would the sound leakage annoy someone over a 6ft cube wall in a moderately quiet office?

I'm thinking of trying opens so I'm not so shut out at the office but don't want to annoy anyone.  If its at a reasonable volume (Milton) I wouldn't be concerned and can't imagine them being that loud since I don't like damaging my ears.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Thu, 10 February 2011, 00:33:30
At a low-mid volume level (background listening), you can hear outside sounds easily and your coworkers won't hear the music.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YpoCaramel on Sun, 13 February 2011, 01:11:45
Quote from: didjamatic;292705
Question for you OPEN headphone owners, especially Senn 595-650's and Beyerdynamic DT880's and similar...

Can you hear a phone ring easily with them on?

Would the sound leakage annoy someone over a 6ft cube wall in a moderately quiet office?

1. DT880 is semi-open. It does muffle a tiny bit, but otherwise it's a leaker both ways.
2. Yes, unless you're trying to blow out your ears with the music volume.
3. I assume you mean 6ft away, across a cubicle wall, not a 6-foot cubicle wall. They would likely hear something. I would generally advise a lightly sealed phone - something that doesn't isolate much (and less clamp), but doesn't leak much either (iirc the Denon D2/5/7000, the big Audio-Technicas). Alternatively, Sennheiser MX980 earbuds don't isolate much but don't leak.

I have K701, D5000 and ATH-ESW10JPN. I don't like the former two much.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Sun, 13 February 2011, 08:55:12
I have Ultimate Ears TripleFi's when I need complete isolation, they're perfect.  But I'm really enjoying the big sound of these Denon D2000's.  They don't clamp at all.  The look of the DT880/770 is great and their reviews are awesome and they look really comfortable.

By 6ft cube wall I meant it's 6ft high but there is in fact someone about 6ft away on the other side.  I'm thinking open or semi-open won't be a problem.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Z Overlord on Sun, 13 February 2011, 18:54:26
Asus Xonar Essence STX --> Sennheiser HD555
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YpoCaramel on Sun, 13 February 2011, 20:52:29
Many open headphones and some closed ones would give you bigger imaging, I've never be impressed by the directionality of the D5000 and I assume the same for the D2000 (same driver, different housing iirc). Soundstage is ok in my book. Bass could stand to be much less muddy.

Yes, low clamp - that's why they don't isolate much at the same time :p trade-offs
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Mon, 14 February 2011, 05:51:11
somehow i just know i will get the new stax flagship. i wish i could quit this addiction.

it is stupid quite frankly because my loudspeaker system can best any headphones. period.
it is just harder to hord loudspeakers :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Mon, 14 February 2011, 06:39:29
Quote from: typo;294765
somehow i just know i will get the new stax flagship. i wish i could quit this addiction.

it is stupid quite frankly because my loudspeaker system can best any headphones. period.

So you've got the full blast of studio-level room treatment going on, plus a SBA/DBA, and speakers to match? Lucky man.
Quote from: typo;294765
it is just harder to hord loudspeakers :)

That definitely.

Have you looked into head tracking systems for headphones yet? A Smyth Realizer could deliver very good results when given a near-ideal room for setup. Seemingly a lot of studio folks like to use the thing since it allows them to take their accustomed working environment with them. Not sure how the bass level requirements are dealt with though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: audioave10 on Mon, 14 February 2011, 11:58:33
I haven't used headphones for years. The Sennheiser's I had back then were very good however. I may have to look into this again.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 14 February 2011, 12:47:06
Plantronics Gamecom 367

/ashamed

I bought them when I built my new PC in Oct, and haven't gotten a new pair since. I bought a set of Logitech Z506 speakers and they sound great, but I want better sounding music! I hesitate to buy any expensive headphones/sound systems without having the proper hardware in place. Can anyone recommend a good list of fairly cheap sound cards/amps (or do i need both?) I can use to make my music sound better? Or will I just not see a difference with the Logitech speakers I have??
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Mon, 14 February 2011, 13:41:27
Which board with what kind of onboard sound chip do you have? Something like an ALC889, set up properly, would work pretty much as well as anything.

I see a bunch of people complaining about audible hum with the Z-506 - does yours not have this problem? Apparently it's a bit sensitive to cellphone noise, too. SQ doesn't seem to be particularly outstanding either. Apparently a product in the tradition of other new Logitech speaker systems (i.e. disappointing compared to previous offerings).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 14 February 2011, 13:49:45
ASUS M4A785TD-V EVO as far as my motherboard goes.

I don't have any humming issues with them. And my cellphone doesn't interfere much (keep it on my left hand side, on the other side of the pc, next to the balcony door). All-in-all best $69 I've ever spent (best buy had them mismarked...my win) on speakers.

When I bought them I wasn't expecting fantastic sound quality, just something to enjoy my music to. I use the bass a lot, as I listen to a lot of house (fitting as Tiesto is a distant cousin of mine :p) and hip-hop. I guess what I'm saying is how much will I have to spend to fit my system to have nice, clear bass and better sound quality with the speakers I already have. I think I'm limited to sound card/amp at this point??

The main reason I'm here, though, is for a good pair of head phones you guys can recommend to me based on what you know. The ones I have are crap. My brother's Razer Carcharias are nice, but I hear a lot of people on here complained about the quality. I have a $19 pair of Sennheisers that blow both my headphones, my brothers headphones, my speakers, and a friends Beats by Dre headphones away.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Mon, 14 February 2011, 14:18:26
That board has a VT1708... nothing particularly exciting, but it should get the job done output wise.

How much would you be willing to spend on cans?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 14 February 2011, 14:56:45
~US$100, I guess. Not really looking for something that will last forever. Something that has a mic for games and plays music well.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Mon, 14 February 2011, 15:21:38
So essentially you need a headset... not too many attractive offerings there. Whatever Sennheiser PC1xx fits your budget or a Beyer DT234Pro should be a decent option (though in case of the DT234Pro you have to be aware that it's the headset version of the DT231Pro/235 costing half as much), otherwise one may want to get a basic clip-on mic plus regular headphones. I'm a little surprised the guys at Headroom don't carry PC headsets, they only have phone jobs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 14 February 2011, 16:11:05
To be honest, I don't mind having to buy a separate mic. That way I'll be able to take the headphones with me without having a random cable waggling around, and a mic hanging out on the top of the headset.

With that in mind, what headphones do you recommend? Mic??

Thanks for all the help, I really appreciate it :) I feel Amazon reviews can be slightly biased and welcome third-party reviews from a trusted source. Especially from a German, proven to be the most discerning consumers in the world :p
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slueth on Mon, 14 February 2011, 17:02:09
I got an AKG 702, Pioneer HDJ 2000, a Razer Carcharias  and a couple cheap sony headphones that are broken.

I use the AKG 702 with my computer and the HDj 2000 on the go..
The hdj2000 is great on the bus and has some passive isolation.
 I only have the Razer Carcharias for the mic but it does sound good.
 The hdj-2000 are great for dance/electronica music and have an amazing build quality to it.  Magnesium alloy hinges, leathery pads, and foldaway make it great for on the go.
The AKG is not so great in the bass area but I boost the bass with the EQ.. It has a good sound stage that makes me sometimes forget if my speakers or playing or I am wearing headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 14 February 2011, 17:20:09
Quote from: slueth;295026
I got an AKG 702, Pioneer HDJ 2000, a Razer Carcharias  and a couple cheap sony headphones that are broken.

I use the AKG 702 with my computer and the HDj 2000 on the go..
The hdj2000 is great on the bus and has some passive isolation.
 I only have the Razer Carcharias for the mic but it does sound good.
 The hdj-2000 are great for dance/electronica music and have an amazing build quality to it.  Magnesium alloy hinges, leathery pads, and foldaway make it great for on the go.
The AKG is not so great in the bass area but I boost the bass with the EQ.. It has a good sound stage that makes me sometimes forget if my speakers or playing or I am wearing headphones.


You definitely don't half-ass your headphone purchases :p those AKG 702's look fantastic!

Now sell them to me. :wink:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Mon, 14 February 2011, 17:39:55
Quote from: .XL;295034
You definitely don't half-ass your headphone purchases :p those AKG 702's look fantastic!

Now sell them to me. :wink:


Yet a lot of people hate them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 14 February 2011, 19:35:11
Quote from: aynjell;295052
Yet a lot of people hate them.


...can I get some for free, then? I'll pay shipping :D

If it's the audio quality, I think I wouldn't mind...best pair of headphones I've ever owned are a $20 pair of Sennheisers.

If it's the looks...you don't need to look at the damn thing, it's on your head!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Mon, 14 February 2011, 20:18:46
Quote from: .XL;295140
...can I get some for free, then? I'll pay shipping :D

If it's the audio quality, I think I wouldn't mind...best pair of headphones I've ever owned are a $20 pair of Sennheisers.

If it's the looks...you don't need to look at the damn thing, it's on your head!


I'm sure the quality is fine, but it's very colored. It's not a studio monitor, that's for sure, despite akg marketing it as one. Most people whom have tried ended up not being able to translate to other things with it at all. Quincy Jones being the possibly for profit obvious exception.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Mon, 14 February 2011, 21:04:54
well, no. my speaker setup is actually very sub-par. they are high end but the room stinks. i personally enjoy them much more than all of my headphones though. many people might disagree.  i do collect upper end cans and i still prefer the speakers. thats just imo.
in fact if my speakers were properly setup they would no doubt be a lot better than they are now. i just got the headphone bug a long time ago and i do listen to them regularly. i sometimes switch back between the he90 or o2 and the speakers trying to decide the speakers are better but honestly i am not sure. it is not exactly a straight line comparison. two different animals. speakers and headphones, that. as i said i can't wait to get my hands on the new stax. i hope they live up to the hype.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Mon, 14 February 2011, 22:15:04
Quote from: typo;295186
well, no. my speaker setup is actually very sub-par. they are high end but the room stinks. i personally enjoy them much more than all of my headphones though. many people might disagree.  i do collect upper end cans and i still prefer the speakers. thats just imo.
in fact if my speakers were properly setup they would no doubt be a lot better than they are now. i just got the headphone bug a long time ago and i do listen to them regularly. i sometimes switch back between the he90 or o2 and the speakers trying to decide the speakers are better but honestly i am not sure. it is not exactly a straight line comparison. two different animals. speakers and headphones, that. as i said i can't wait to get my hands on the new stax. i hope they live up to the hype.


I use klipsch promedia 2.1. Need to get some type of sub isolator and some stands that work with them though. Otherwise I love them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 14 February 2011, 23:21:41
Here are a few that I found:

Sennheiser HD280 (http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-280-Pro-Headphones/dp/B000065BPB/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1297746432&sr=1-1)

Audio Technica ATH A-700 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E9VKUQ/ref=s9_bbs_gw_d0_ir03?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1ZSYR5RGEW01ZJ0ZE9HA&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846)

What's the difference between these and the AD700's??

Sennheiser HD448 (http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD448-Closed-Circumaural-Headphone/dp/B002DGTGO0/ref=sr_1_20?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1297746748&sr=1-20)

I asked this same question on a friends of mine's wall to see what he thought (big audiophile) and some 5 of his friends responded with Beats by Dre...waste of money ><
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Mon, 14 February 2011, 23:27:46
Quote from: .XL;295220
Here are a few that I found:

Sennheiser HD280 (http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-280-Pro-Headphones/dp/B000065BPB/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1297746432&sr=1-1)

Audio Technica ATH A-700 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E9VKUQ/ref=s9_bbs_gw_d0_ir03?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1ZSYR5RGEW01ZJ0ZE9HA&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846)

What's the difference between these and the AD700's??

Sennheiser HD448 (http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD448-Closed-Circumaural-Headphone/dp/B002DGTGO0/ref=sr_1_20?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1297746748&sr=1-20)

I asked this same question on a friends of mine's wall to see what he thought (big audiophile) and some 5 of his friends responded with Beats by Dre...waste of money ><

All three are closed-back. Kinda strange on the HD448 since it looks open due to the grill on it but apparently it's closed. No one who is a "big audiophile" would even mention those.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 14 February 2011, 23:34:20
Quote from: Arc'xer;295223
All three are closed-back. Kinda strange on the HD448 since it looks open due to the grill on it but apparently it's closed. No one who is a "big audiophile" would even mention those.


I asked him what to get, he hasn't responded. These are all my picks. What's closed vs open back?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slueth on Tue, 15 February 2011, 00:01:53
Heh. The AKG do look good but sound better.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kps on Tue, 15 February 2011, 10:00:34
Quote from: .XL;295226
What's closed vs open back?


This refers to the 'cans' over the ears.

Closed-back headphones have no openings, so they provide better sound isolation, in both directions. These are what you need for use in a cube or open office environment.

Open-back headphones have the back of the speaker open to the outside air in some way (usually behind a grille). This allows for better audio quality for the same cost.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Tue, 15 February 2011, 12:45:42
Quote from: slueth;295026
I got an AKG 702, Pioneer HDJ 2000, a Razer Carcharias  and a couple cheap sony headphones that are broken.

I use the AKG 702 with my computer and the HDj 2000 on the go..
The hdj2000 is great on the bus and has some passive isolation.
 I only have the Razer Carcharias for the mic but it does sound good.
 The hdj-2000 are great for dance/electronica music and have an amazing build quality to it.  Magnesium alloy hinges, leathery pads, and foldaway make it great for on the go.
The AKG is not so great in the bass area but I boost the bass with the EQ.. It has a good sound stage that makes me sometimes forget if my speakers or playing or I am wearing headphones.


I sure hope you're plugging the K702's to a proper headphone amp. You're missing half of the quality if not.

You might also be a bass junkie, and therefore you probably wouldn't like most other high end headphones either.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Tue, 15 February 2011, 13:16:49
AD700s are closed while A700s are open. Sound wise, the amount of bass seems to be different: While the closed versions are known to have a healthy amount, the open ones are a bit on the lighter side. Other than that, AT is a competent manufacturer.

HD280s are not bad closed cans for the price, though people tend to find them a little dry. Good isolation, a bit clampy.

Not sure about the HD448s... they seem to measure reasonably well but may be suffering from a bit of "hollow bird syndrome" (audible cavity resonance), as you'd expect from an open shell gone closed.

Open cans are more of a European thing, so many of the affordable open ones over here are quite spendy in the States. For Grados it's the other way round, so some SR-60s or Alessandro MS-1s would be worth looking at (be aware that build is about the polar opposite of what you'd see with, say, Sennheiser). They are more fun cans for rocking out than dead neutral, but that gets them a large enough following.
Quote from: db_Iodine;295563
I sure hope you're plugging the K702's to a proper headphone amp. You're missing half of the quality if not.
They're a low-medium impedance load with somewhat modest sensitivity, that's true. An opamp without a good bit of oomph under the hood may well break into sweat at higher levels. At least they're not very picky about output impedance.
Quote
You might also be a bass junkie, and therefore you probably wouldn't like most other high end headphones either.
K701s/702s exist in multiple versions with varying amounts of bass. Many are on the lighter side of things, and cranking the lows with such a sample doesn't automatically make someone a basshead. It would mean they had the wrong cans though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 15 February 2011, 13:31:21
If it's for gaming, I strongly suggest AD-700, A-700, or sennheiser HD555 with the 595 mod. Also, I've found that SR80i with bowls are pretty good for some games too, at least for games not demanding spatial awareness...

For non spatially aware games likes WoW, Sony MDR-V6. Isolation, and fun, they are perfect for a game with no spatial cues.

For spatially aware games, like quake 3, ATH-AD700 or HD555. I used to recommend the SRH840 but find them too cumbersome to game with and they're of all my cans the only ones falling apart. I'm disenchanted.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kill will on Tue, 15 February 2011, 13:40:56
sony mdr pro 7506 for life
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 15 February 2011, 13:47:07
Quote from: kill will;295603
sony mdr pro 7506 for life


The argument is that there is no difference between the two. Supposedly it amounts to a gold plated plug, and not much else.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 15 February 2011, 14:07:44
Thanks again for all the help guys. I think I'm going to go for the closed 'cans' then...a set of A700's are a good price and seem to be quite good quality. I'll use them when traveling, too, so I hope they're tough enough for that!

From what you said about the difference between closed and open...the closed seems a better fit for me because I'll have them on while on a plane/bus/metro and I like bass. So it's a win-win i think.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Tue, 15 February 2011, 15:18:10
Just don't cross streets with them on.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Tue, 15 February 2011, 15:41:10
Quote from: aynjell;295591
I used to recommend the 555 but find them too cumbersome to game with and they're of all my cans the only ones falling apart. I'm disenchanted.

They're no Beyers for sure. Cheap and cheerful ABS plastic rather than the much more flexible stuff found on previous generations. Let's hope the current series (558/598) will hold up better.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Tue, 15 February 2011, 15:49:50
Quote from: .XL;295618
Thanks again for all the help guys. I think I'm going to go for the closed 'cans' then...a set of A700's are a good price and seem to be quite good quality. I'll use them when traveling, too, so I hope they're tough enough for that!

ATs with their wings and stuff are neither compact nor extremely rugged. The collapsible HD280s would be a better match.
Quote from: .XL;295618
From what you said about the difference between closed and open...the closed seems a better fit for me because I'll have them on while on a plane/bus/metro and I like bass. So it's a win-win i think.

You'd be a candidate for DT770s... 'fraid they're a bit out of your budget though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 15 February 2011, 16:23:30
So, HD280 for portability, DT770 for best quality sound around my budget it seems?

I've got them both saved on Amazon. I'll get back to them later this month when I've got the cash. Found a $10 clip on mic on Amazon, too, that should do the job for gaming.

Damn you Geekhack. I've only been signed up for about a week and I've already dropped over $200...about to double that if I get the DT770's...

EDIT: How about a set of Beyerdynamic HD440 (http://www.amazon.com/beyerdynamic-DT-440-Premium-Headphones/dp/B000Y04OSU/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1297808646&sr=8-11) or Denon AH-D1100 (http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AH-D1100-Advanced-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B0042ETXRQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1297808879&sr=1-2)?

EDIT2: Is a headphone amp even necessary? (FiiO E5 (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E5-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B001P9EQH8/ref=pd_sim_e_5))
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Tue, 15 February 2011, 16:49:23
Quote from: keyb_gr;295580
AD700s are closed while A700s are open.


Other way around AD = open, A = closed.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 15 February 2011, 17:06:11
Quote from: keyb_gr;295664
They're no Beyers for sure. Cheap and cheerful ABS plastic rather than the much more flexible stuff found on previous generations. Let's hope the current series (558/598) will hold up better.


I mistyped. I meant the 840's by Shure. They're pretty bad about falling apart if my unit is any indication.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 15 February 2011, 17:21:15
DENON AH-D5000's!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 15 February 2011, 18:10:59
Quote from: panda-R;295715
DENON AH-D5000's!


If a $150 Ducky keyboard costs '10 tons of bamboo,' how many tons do these cost?? 40 tons?

...that's a lot of bamboo for you to part with.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 15 February 2011, 18:20:20
I've narrowed it down to the Audio-Technica MH50S, the Beyerdynamic DT440, the Beyerdynamic DT770, the AKG-K271MKII, and the Denon AH-D1100.

Which one is the best bang-for-your-buck headphones of this group? I'm going to get a cheap Zalman clip on mic to go with them for gaming.

PS - If anyone is willing to trade a nice set of headphones for a Razer Arctosa keyboard, Razer Mamba mouse, and a Gamecom 367 headset, PM me :wink:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slueth on Tue, 15 February 2011, 19:09:28
Quote
Quote:
Originally Posted by slueth View Post
I got an AKG 702, Pioneer HDJ 2000, a Razer Carcharias and a couple cheap sony headphones that are broken.

I use the AKG 702 with my computer and the HDj 2000 on the go..
The hdj2000 is great on the bus and has some passive isolation.
I only have the Razer Carcharias for the mic but it does sound good.
The hdj-2000 are great for dance/electronica music and have an amazing build quality to it. Magnesium alloy hinges, leathery pads, and foldaway make it great for on the go.
The AKG is not so great in the bass area but I boost the bass with the EQ.. It has a good sound stage that makes me sometimes forget if my speakers or playing or I am wearing headphones.
I sure hope you're plugging the K702's to a proper headphone amp. You're missing half of the quality if not.

You might also be a bass junkie, and therefore you probably wouldn't like most other high end headphones either.


I am using a halo claro sound card.  It has a built in headphone amp that goes up to 600 ohms.  
I only boost the bass on electronic music because it makes my head bob but when I am listening to like harmonica blues or vocals i change the EQ.  When I say its not great in the bass area i mean its not exaggerated like other headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 15 February 2011, 19:39:48
Quote from: .XL;295742
I've narrowed it down to the Audio-Technica MH50S, the Beyerdynamic DT440, the Beyerdynamic DT770, the AKG-K271MKII, and the Denon AH-D1100.

Which one is the best bang-for-your-buck headphones of this group? I'm going to get a cheap Zalman clip on mic to go with them for gaming.

PS - If anyone is willing to trade a nice set of headphones for a Razer Arctosa keyboard, Razer Mamba mouse, and a Gamecom 367 headset, PM me :wink:

If you go DT 770, make sure you get the lower ohm set unless you want to splash out on an appropriate amp also. If you don't, you'll end up getting approximately the worst possible value. if you want DT 770's you can plug into your sound card, your ipod, and your smart phone without requiring amplification, the 32 ohm is your best bet even if it's not as potentially good as the higher ohm models. The trouble with beyers is you have to figure out the best ohm rating for you. Personally I'd go 80 ohm. I find that cans at that ohm rating have low noise from portables, but good quality with your computer sound output. Just make sure they aren't the blacksheep of the range.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 15 February 2011, 19:44:52
Quote from: aynjell;295769
Just make sure they aren't the blacksheep of the range.

Not sure what you mean by this part.

I was planning on 'splurging' on one of these (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001P9EQH8/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=AFKH6OU9WWNFS) as well...hopefully it works fine :p

EDIT: Meaning to say, my choice was the 80Ohms. Unless one of the cheaper options is a better bang-for-your-buck. From online reviews, it looks like the ATM50S are the best headsets in this range.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 15 February 2011, 19:57:11
Quote from: .XL;295774
Not sure what you mean by this part.

I was planning on 'splurging' on one of these (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001P9EQH8/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=AFKH6OU9WWNFS) as well...hopefully it works fine :p

EDIT: Meaning to say, my choice was the 80Ohms. Unless one of the cheaper options is a better bang-for-your-buck. From online reviews, it looks like the ATM50S are the best headsets in this range.

The Fiio E5 will not drive that, it's honestly a waste. I sold mine for a few bucks, and never looked back. Just plug it into your sound card or buy an X-Fi or something. If you go 32 ohm anything will drive them, 80 ohm anything with a baseline level of testicular fortitude will do the job while having a cleaner more analytical sound if my experience with headphones with that ohm range is accurate. If you can spend money (like 500+ for a good amp) you can go for something like 300ohm or 600ohm.

otherwise stick with 32 or 80. But just make sure that there aren't reviews saying the 32 ohm or 80 ohm sound better, or that one of those models isn't just terrible or something. They're different products. I wouldn't be surprised if they differed in their performance to some degree.

That being said, without spending on an amp, you're limited to 80 ohm or 32 ohm. Read reviews on both and especially look for comparison articles. Pick the winner and be happy. It may be though that there isn't much benefit to teh DT770 32 ohm over the DT440 32 ohm or something. It really requires a great deal of reading.

As an example, I have one amp. The Little Dot I+, it's designed to drive the piss out of 32 ohm cans. So I'd probably go 32 ohm or 80 ohm to get respectable performance from the cans and the amp. DT770 600ohm will just sound terribad from my setup.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 15 February 2011, 20:41:40
By X-Fi do you mean something like this (http://www.amazon.com/Sound-Blaster-X-Fi-Surround-Refurbished/dp/B003P5IAFY/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1297823917&sr=8-6)?

I'll get to work researching the DT770 and the ATMH50S then...which is good, because I need to take a break from researching international supply chains ><

Though on the upside, with the knowledge I gain I could help EK learn to stock keyboards faster than...never.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 15 February 2011, 20:56:36
Quote from: .XL;295792
By X-Fi do you mean something like this (http://www.amazon.com/Sound-Blaster-X-Fi-Surround-Refurbished/dp/B003P5IAFY/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1297823917&sr=8-6)?

I'll get to work researching the DT770 and the ATMH50S then...which is good, because I need to take a break from researching international supply chains ><

Though on the upside, with the knowledge I gain I could help EK learn to stock keyboards faster than...never.



No, are you using a laptop? if so, this is your better bet:

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Sound-Blaster-System-SB1240/dp/B004275EO4/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1297824303&sr=1-4

If you have a desktop and have a PCI-Express X1 slot or better:

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-SB0886-Titanium-Fatal1ty-Professional/dp/B0018EFGTM/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1297824345&sr=1-2

if you want the front bay (with headphone and mic ports and volume control) then this:

http://www.amazon.com/Express-Blaster-Titanium-Fatal1ty-Champion/dp/B001BDPLJA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1297824379&sr=1-1



There are many options, though no one particular option is the best for any given person.

I figure it this way, optical output from the X-Fi, with wasapi or with just plain old foobar output should perform as good as I'll ever hear. So I basically utilize my X-Fi as a transport. The only reason it's there over my onboard audio is that it handles spatial audio processing and offloads some of that load to my CPU, loads music faster, and does a few things better. Considering music and gaming are major parts of my life, it makes sense to meet in the middle somewhere...

For speakers, it goes:

X-Fi (stereo output) -> Klipsch Promedia 2.1

For headphones, it goes:
X-Fi (optical output) -> SD-793 Mini-DAC -> Little Dot I+ -> Whatever can I'm using.

I have "output stereo mix to optical" enabled so I can switch between the two without making any changes, and when gaming if I choose to use my headphones any and all output goes to both places, and by not using the optical as the default, I get all the features the X-Fi matters for. Also, when all I want is music, I can setup WASAPI in foobar and output to optical, so no other sound comes out, since windows default sound output is the stereo mix, it never makes it there since the optical output is locked down by WASAPI. Makes a good "kill switch" for everything else besides music, a lot of people argue there is some SQ improvements but I wouldn't dare start that argument here or anywhere else as I have no experience suggesting one way or the other.


Optical, ideally should give me the best possible sound quality if output to a good DAC. Arguably there is some merit to a better sound card, but realistically I won't ever spend enough in that card's lifetime for me to consider upgrading it. For now, it's as good as it'll get.


Basically, it's an EAX processor, a digital transport, a speaker output and many other things. It just does a lot of things well and based on my needs, it fits the bill perfectly.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 15 February 2011, 21:32:46
Maaan...I HAD to read this post while listening to Lloyd Banks -Start It Up. Now I'm going to make a second big spontaneous purchase of the night ><

I can only buy either the headphones or the X-Fi card though...

I think I'd get the usb one, seeing as I'll probably be doing a semester abroad in China next sem and won't bring my desktop with me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Tue, 15 February 2011, 22:14:12
for a first purchase i recommend grado sr80 or if you have more money beyer dt880 or k701/2. buying $30 headphones is just a let down. unless you just have no funds. i understand. i just wanted to state this because if i was told all i can do is keep one headphone that is under $300 it would be one of those.

i could argue the k701 is more accurate than the he90. of course accuracy is just one small part of the whole equation so that is really neither here nor there. i do think the k701 could be someones first and last headphone so long as they do not join head-fi.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Tue, 15 February 2011, 22:31:59
I think a better option would either be the Xonar ST or STX. Albeit many who've done reviews on the ST vs STX lean towards the ST as providing the better sound. Except ST is PCI and STX is PCIe, so either you need a PCI bus or a PCIe to PCI converter. Although I haven't run into anyone using a converter may or may not work.

Both are able to drive headphone upward to 600ohms. And from what many have mentioned unless your willing to spend some good dough on external equipment the best bang for buck you'll get is the ST. Considering it uses some of the top parts on the market at a reasonable price point.

I mean sure external equipment would be great and all but again money, time, and research are going to be needed.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Tue, 15 February 2011, 23:37:51
Quote from: typo;294765
somehow i just know i will get the new stax flagship. i wish i could quit this addiction.

it is stupid quite frankly because my loudspeaker system can best any headphones. period.
it is just harder to hord loudspeakers :)

You have something that could best the Stax TOTL's?  What the heck do you have?  Those Stax reportedly sound like $100k stereo systems.

My best speakers are KEF Reference 203's I scored on local classifieds.  They weren't cheap but were a bargain compared to retail.

(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_-sQ6TN93LvU/TU6pGse1klI/AAAAAAAABqk/0Ntcgl1jjRo/s800/KEF_203_maple.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 15 February 2011, 23:51:53
The Grados are okay, but I heard quality wise they weren't too great and break easy. Plus, I'm not a fan of on-ear, I much prefer circumaural.

It's between the AKG, the Denon, and the AT then. Thanks for all the help guys, I can take it from here ;)

Plus I can't afford a soundcard now, but when I can, I'll make sure to take a hard look between Xonar and X-Fi
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 16 February 2011, 12:09:47
The grados are some of the most well built cans out there. Honestly, I think I  wanna take the x-fi usb thing back. Want a cheap setup? here is what I reccomend:

Grado SR80i, buy bowl pads with it. trust me, it helps.

Buy the headroom bithead. It will work as a usb sound card, plus a high end amp and pairs perfectly with the SR80i with bowls. It's a really good combination and I heard a lot of synergy. Also grados don't break often, they're just really really simple.

http://www.headphone.com/headphone-amps/headroom-total-bithead.php

That's the amp I strongly suggest you buy if you get grados.

http://www.headphone.com/headphones/?mfnID=6

There are the grado line. Protip: the cheapest headphones aren't the worst. The iGrado is actually the same exact drivers of the SR60i, just that the wear style is different. I personally think the SR80i sound better enough to justify the price.

My reccomendation:

Bithead -> Grado SR80i (w/ bowl pads)

All together it'll cost you about 270$. I'd strongly suggest looking for a discount. I have this combo, I have personal experience with it. I'd sell you my bithead but it's my girlfriends main "hifi".

Also yes, I love grado. So maybe I'm biased. Me and the GF have 3 grado products: iGrado, SR80i, SR325is
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 15:17:50
I like that amp a lot...I love that it's batt powered, it should keep my macbook pro batt alive a while longer.

The problem I have with the Grado's is the 'on-the-ear' config. I can't stand on-the-ear 'cans,' I was ready to buy some beats solo a year ago, and tried them on, hated them after about 15 minutes of listening to music.

I'm assuming there's some comfortable models out there, but I think I'd prefer circumaural headphones, especially considering I'd use them a lot traveling, and don't want to disturb others.

That amp WILL be bought though...reviews are great...


EDIT:


Another question: What format should my music be in?? Most of it is in MP3, is it possible to switch to another format and gain quality or is quality lost once it's gone?? What program should I use to change the format of songs? I would use iTunes, but I've gotten to really dislike using it for anything. I feel like I'm just going to wipe my macbook and start clean, getting rid of all the crap I don't like, such as iTunes and iWeb, the whole iWork suite (MS Office just does the job better) and all of CS4 Extended. Should be good to have a fresh start :p

What's the best (free) music/media player for Macs, anyway? Is there a Foobar like program? I've got miro and vlc right now...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 15:23:45
Found a pair of AKG K172HD for $149, seems that they retail at places like Best Buy and Amazon for much more than that. Are they better than the AKG271MKII??
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Wed, 16 February 2011, 16:31:37
I like the Grados, but if you are looking for comfort and especially off-the-ears comfort they are not it.

MP3 files are lossy-compressed.  You can't get the data that has been removed back, so converting them to another format will only make them sound the same or worse.  MP3s are not necessarily bad; depends on how heavily compressed they are, and the music itself.  I'd listen to what you have and see how it sounds.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 16 February 2011, 16:57:16
I've been amazed at the difference a USB DAC makes even listening to 192k streams on Pandora (I bought the 1 year PandoraOne membership)  and I'm just using a FIIO E7 I got for $75 shipped.  Because of this, I can't imagine buying a headphone amp that doesn't have USB DAC functionality + portability if you're mobile.  Once you have that, then I'd consider a stationary headphone amp.  Thankfully it's a hot marketplace for headamps so there are many to choose from and the prices are coming down on many.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 16 February 2011, 17:20:24
Quote from: RoboKrikit;296328
I like the Grados, but if you are looking for comfort and especially off-the-ears comfort they are not it.

MP3 files are lossy-compressed.  You can't get the data that has been removed back, so converting them to another format will only make them sound the same or worse.  MP3s are not necessarily bad; depends on how heavily compressed they are, and the music itself.  I'd listen to what you have and see how it sounds.

I believe that the comfort level of Grados is sufficient with the plastic variety. The SR80i I suggested is so light on your ears that if you complain about discomfort you're a sissy. The bowls hurt only on the heavier Grados, the wooden and worse yet the aluminum (like my SR325i) are VERY uncomfortable with the bowls. For my 325is I use the Sennheiser HD414 pads, which offer a warmer sound and a greater level of comfort.

Also, Grados have a interesting headband design. The headband is actually a thin metal strip, but a sturdy one. This means you can pretty much custom tailor the fit of your grado headphones to your head by bending it; eg I have a bit of a cone head, so I bend two divits on the left and right of the center and this gives me a tight by very comfortable and reassuring fit. Now, the SR80i doesn't have the leather sheathe but this is easily fixable if you find that you want it, jmoney leather hand bands tend to be affordable.

Remember how I said I use the Sennhiser HD414 pads? Well there is a MYRIAD of pads available for grado headphones and they're all compatible. S (comfy), M (bowl), G (bagel), HD414 (sennheiser pad, about 5$ a set), etc. And there are more options for people who want to go deeper. Basically, if I had to say so, the single most customizable headphone on the market are any given grado product. Some cans respond better to some pads, and I wouldn't reccomend bagel pads on the SR80i for example, but bowls, any day of the week.

Quote from: didjamatic;296346
I've been amazed at the difference a USB DAC makes even listening to 192k streams on Pandora (I bought the 1 year PandoraOne membership)  and I'm just using a FIIO E7 I got for $75 shipped.  Because of this, I can't imagine buying a headphone amp that doesn't have USB DAC functionality + portability if you're mobile.  Once you have that, then I'd consider a stationary headphone amp.  Thankfully it's a hot marketplace for headamps so there are many to choose from and the prices are coming down on many.

The Bit-head I recommended offers all of this functionality. The batteries are the compromise here, unfortunately in that they are not recharged by the device. They use standard consumable batteries. You have easy access to them so it's pretty easy to swap batteries out. Whether or not the performance is acceptable with any type of recharge-able battery I don't know, never tried. Rechargeable batteries offer less current than non rechargeable, thus the compromise.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 17:53:11
Quote
Rechargeable batteries offer less current than non rechargeable, thus the compromise.


That's what I had read, that using rechargeable batteries lowers the quality of music.

Do you know of a USB amp (or is USB DAC the proper term?) that recharges when plugged in? I'd like this for the simple reason that I wouldn't have to buy tons of batteries (the one you linked me last 20hrs on 4 AA's). Then again, I'm really looking to just use this on my desktop for the time being, and when I study abroad in China I'm sure I'll be able to find plenty of AA's cheap.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RoboKrikit on Wed, 16 February 2011, 17:54:42
Quote from: aynjell;296354
I believe that the comfort level of Grados is sufficient with the plastic variety. The SR80i I suggested is so light on your ears that if you complain about discomfort you're a sissy. The bowls hurt only on the heavier Grados, the wooden and worse yet the aluminum (like my SR325i) are VERY uncomfortable with the bowls. For my 325is I use the Sennheiser HD414 pads, which offer a warmer sound and a greater level of comfort.

Also, Grados have a interesting headband design. The headband is actually a thin metal strip, but a sturdy one. This means you can pretty much custom tailor the fit of your grado headphones to your head by bending it; eg I have a bit of a cone head, so I bend two divits on the left and right of the center and this gives me a tight by very comfortable and reassuring fit. Now, the SR80i doesn't have the leather sheathe but this is easily fixable if you find that you want it, jmoney leather hand bands tend to be affordable.

Remember how I said I use the Sennhiser HD414 pads? Well there is a MYRIAD of pads available for grado headphones and they're all compatible. S (comfy), M (bowl), G (bagel), HD414 (sennheiser pad, about 5$ a set), etc. And there are more options for people who want to go deeper. Basically, if I had to say so, the single most customizable headphone on the market are any given grado product. Some cans respond better to some pads, and I wouldn't reccomend bagel pads on the SR80i for example, but bowls, any day of the week.


I have all of the Grado pads, the yellow Sennheiser pads, and an extra set of bowls that are taped.  The only ones that I'd say are comfortable are the Senn pads and the G-Cush (circumaural) pads, but the G-Cush IMO does not sound good on the SR80i or SR225i; highs too present, lows non-present.  My favorites are the bowls (taped or non-) or the flats.  I can wear them and I don't complain about it, but they're not especially comfortable.  There is a midpoint between comfortable and painful and that is where the Grados sit for me.  My ears are harder than average, so that probably doesn't help.  Adjusting the headband does help a bit.

The Denon D2000 I picked up last month, now that is comfortable!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 17:58:11
Quote from: RoboKrikit;296370


The Denon D2000 I picked up last month, now that is comfortable!


*checks amazon.com...*

Awww :(

How is this (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E7-Portable-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B003E6K1VK/ref=zg_bs_13880161_2) as compared to the bithead?? Seems a lot of people like this.

Looking at reviews, it seems the ATH-M50S is still my best bet. I'm 90% sure I'm sticking with that. Need to read a few more reviews to cement my decision.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 16 February 2011, 18:20:24
Quote from: .XL;296371
*checks amazon.com...*

Awww :(

How is this (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E7-Portable-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B003E6K1VK/ref=zg_bs_13880161_2) as compared to the bithead?? Seems a lot of people like this.

Looking at reviews, it seems the ATH-M50S is still my best bet. I'm 90% sure I'm sticking with that. Need to read a few more reviews to cement my decision.

I wish I could offer an opinion myself. I actually don't care for the sound of denon's, but I may have to try them again. The bithead has the option of simply powering it from USB, and for low impedance headphones this is sufficient. For high impedance headphones, you'll most likely prefer something of more testicular fortitude. For grados, it's wonderful. If the fiio e5 is any indication of the E7's performance, I probably would strongly dislike it. They in my opinion don't really offer anything past a volume control for line out from an iPod, whether this is true for the E7, I cannot say.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 16 February 2011, 18:27:26
Quote from: .XL;295739
If a $150 Ducky keyboard costs '10 tons of bamboo,' how many tons do these cost?? 40 tons?

...that's a lot of bamboo for you to part with.

I am the chairman of a bamboo production and harvesting conglomerate. The best part of it is being called the chairman.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 18:29:32
Quote from: aynjell;296382
I wish I could offer an opinion myself. I actually don't care for the sound of denon's, but I may have to try them again. The bithead has the option of simply powering it from USB, and for low impedance headphones this is sufficient. For high impedance headphones, you'll most likely prefer something of more testicular fortitude. For grados, it's wonderful. If the fiio e5 is any indication of the E7's performance, I probably would strongly dislike it. They in my opinion don't really offer anything past a volume control for line out from an iPod, whether this is true for the E7, I cannot say.

This is what I was thinking. The E5 is probably a strong indicator of the quality of the E7, and seeing as the E5 isn't very good I doubt the E7 is. The bithead seems like the better bet. Especially seeing as it can be powered by USB, which is what I was really hoping. The batteries would be good if I can get it hooked up to my ipod, though I'm a) thinking of selling it and b) not really looking forward to carrying the bithead strapped to the ipod.

The Denon D1100 seem like a good deal, but from what I've read the ATH-M50S outperform them, thought not by much. I'm not an audio expert so I doubt I'd be able to spot the different though. I think it comes down to looks at that point, and the ATH-M50S look better than the competition.

Quote from: panda-R
I am the chairman of a bamboo production and harvesting conglomerate. The best part of it is being called the chairman.  

In that case, Chairman Panda, I hope we can become steadfast friends, as I am somewhat lacking in bamboo at the moment.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 16 February 2011, 19:23:54
Quote from: .XL;296392
The E5 is probably a strong indicator of the quality of the E7, and seeing as the E5 isn't very good I doubt the E7 is.

Measurements (http://rmaa.elektrokrishna.com/Various/FiiO%20E7%20vs.%20E5.htm) look pretty unconspicuous though, with a ruler-flat frequency response and pretty well-behaved distortion spectrum even into a rather heavy load. I'd say the E7 can drive most any ordinary cans, though it may run out of output volume with modestly sensitive 600 ohm samples (maximum output is about 2.2 Vrms, so you wouldn't get more than 97 dB SPL out of a K240M/DF).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 19:41:59
As a price compromise between the two, I found a NuForce Icon uDac (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003Y5FRNS/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=A15OOFJ01NGILN) that seems to be pretty popular. It's a smaller unit than the other two we've mentioned, but apparently it's a big performer. I don't think it can be used with mobile devices, though, but at the price point of headphones I'm looking at I doubt any of them are powerful enough to warrant buying an amp for my ipod touch :p I'd rather just get a USB one for my laptop/pc.

The 80 hours of battery life and lithium-ion battery on the E7 still has me interested, even if the quality is ~E5 standards (which, as you pointed out, is probably not the case). Again, I don't have a trained ear for great amps so I don't know if I'd really be able to tell an okay amp from a good amp. It suffers less EMF than the bithead, which seems to be pretty prone to it, and is small enough to sit on my laptop and take with my ipod if i feel like carrying it around.

The NuForce on the other hand looks like a solid piece of equipment that will do well with both my laptop and desktop, that doesn't suffer much from EMF. So I guess it's a toss up between these two. Anyone have a quarter...?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slueth on Wed, 16 February 2011, 20:04:07
Maybe XL, you should instead get a cheap penguin/altoids cmoy headphone amp and grab a grado.  Much cheaper and those cmoys often have rechargable batteries.
Not to mention how badass those tins look. Totally macgyver looking :biggrin:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Micro-Cmoy-headphone-amp-Opamp-2227-Amplifier-/250774930116?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a6359c2c4#ht_2050wt_1139 (http://cgi.ebay.com/Micro-Cmoy-headphone-amp-Opamp-2227-Amplifier-/250774930116?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a6359c2c4#ht_2050wt_1139)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 16 February 2011, 20:29:07
Quote from: .XL;296436
As a price compromise between the two, I found a NuForce Icon uDac (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003Y5FRNS/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=A15OOFJ01NGILN) that seems to be pretty popular. It's a smaller unit than the other two we've mentioned, but apparently it's a big performer. I don't think it can be used with mobile devices, though, but at the price point of headphones I'm looking at I doubt any of them are powerful enough to warrant buying an amp for my ipod touch :p I'd rather just get a USB one for my laptop/pc.

The 80 hours of battery life and lithium-ion battery on the E7 still has me interested, even if the quality is ~E5 standards (which, as you pointed out, is probably not the case). Again, I don't have a trained ear for great amps so I don't know if I'd really be able to tell an okay amp from a good amp. It suffers less EMF than the bithead, which seems to be pretty prone to it, and is small enough to sit on my laptop and take with my ipod if i feel like carrying it around.

The NuForce on the other hand looks like a solid piece of equipment that will do well with both my laptop and desktop, that doesn't suffer much from EMF. So I guess it's a toss up between these two. Anyone have a quarter...?

I am seeing the nuforce at 250$. The bithead is 150$, and the E7 is 100$. Not sure how they're landing inbetween? Oooooh, the udac. Dur. I have no experience with it, to be honest.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 20:35:11
Quote from: slueth;296448
Maybe XL, you should instead get a cheap penguin/altoids cmoy headphone amp and grab a grado.  Much cheaper and those cmoys often have rechargable batteries.
Not to mention how badass those tins look. Totally macgyver looking :biggrin:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Micro-Cmoy-headphone-amp-Opamp-2227-Amplifier-/250774930116?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a6359c2c4#ht_2050wt_1139 (http://cgi.ebay.com/Micro-Cmoy-headphone-amp-Opamp-2227-Amplifier-/250774930116?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a6359c2c4#ht_2050wt_1139)


I can't find much about them online. Do you have personal experience with them?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 16 February 2011, 20:52:49
Quote from: .XL;296467
I can't find much about them online. Do you have personal experience with them?


A CMOY is like the lightsaber of every young audiophile jedi's path. It's usually your first amp, self built or not. Though you get way more props for building it yourself. But at that price there's no benefit to be honest. Just buy you a penguin and get a good set of cans. That does leave you without a dac but there are plenty of cheap dacs around.

Honestly though, if you're going cmoy, I'd go RA-1 clone instead. Granted it's not really nice, but it's an amp designed to run with grados, but similar in topology to a CMOY.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Fanmusic-Mini-Portable-Battery-Headphone-Amplifier-RA1-/120642236301?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c16d66f8d

Also it's cheaper at about 2$ less since shipping is free. Couple it with the aforementioned dac and I'll wager you'll get top end performance from low impedance cans, especially grados which it was voiced for.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JelinaNU on Wed, 16 February 2011, 21:36:13
So, I've been following this thread for a few days and am curious about something... How can I be certain that I would hear a difference if I did upgrade some of my equipment. Mind you, I definitely don't have the money to investigate at present, but it's a niggling question of mine. Understand that I work in the warehouse of a steel distributor. Before that I worked in a junkyard, preceded by a rock radio station and a racetrack. That is, it's very likely that my hearing is somewhat damaged.

The small amount of research that I've been able to do, this week, tells me that the source matters a great deal, regardless of the outlet.  I'm guessing that would require me to upgrade my on-board audio or buy some kind of DAC before an upgrade in headphones or speakers would be noticeable -- currently I'm running a set of Logitech X-530 speakers or a $30 Logitech gaming headset, as the mic is a necessity -- and spending ~$200 with that knowledge seems like an all-stop in my situation. Given too that most of my listening comes from gaming and podcasts, is it worth considering?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slueth on Wed, 16 February 2011, 21:51:01
Um its not a product that is made by a "brand".. its more of a do it your self thing but there are premade ones by hobbiest.  It wad developed by Chu Moy and shared to the headphone people.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMoy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMoy)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 16 February 2011, 22:59:54
I love the Denon D2000's enough that I will be watching for some D7000's.

As for the FIIO E7, you can get it here for $75 SHIPPED (http://cgi.ebay.com/New-FiiO-E7-Earphone-Headphone-Portable-Amplifier-/110639504749?pt=Other_MP3_Player_Accessories&hash=item19c2a0dd6d#ht_2120wt_1139) if you offer.  It charges via usb and has a lithium ion battery.  My only complaint is the jack quality but I would buy again.  Great intro head amp.

If the bithead takes AA's, spring for some Eneloops from Amazon and a good intelligent charger.  They cost but are great batteries with long shelf life and will save you in the long run.

The Fubar IV looks great, as do many others out there.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 23:04:28
Quote from: didjamatic;296518
I love the Denon D2000's enough that I will be watching for some D7000's.

As for the FIIO E7, you can get it here for $75 SHIPPED (http://cgi.ebay.com/New-FiiO-E7-Earphone-Headphone-Portable-Amplifier-/110639504749?pt=Other_MP3_Player_Accessories&hash=item19c2a0dd6d#ht_2120wt_1139) if you offer.  It charges via usb and has a lithium ion battery.  My only complaint is the jack quality but I would buy again.  Great intro head amp.

If the bithead takes AA's, spring for some Eneloops from Amazon and a good intelligent charger.  They cost but are great batteries with long shelf life and will save you in the long run.

The Fubar IV looks great, as do many others out there.


Hmm...washington dc...I he takes $75, I wonder if he'll take $60 and I pick it up? I live right outside DC
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 16 February 2011, 23:15:16
He declined an offer of $70 shipped before accepting $75.  You could try local pickup but most volume ebayers don't like local pickup.  Honestly $75 is an unbelievable deal for this amp.  It's cheaper than China sources.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 16 February 2011, 23:20:12
Quote from: didjamatic;296524
He declined an offer of $70 shipped before accepting $75.  You could try local pickup but most volume ebayers don't like local pickup.  Honestly $75 is an unbelievable deal for this amp.  It's cheaper than China sources.

I wish I had read this earlier...I offered 65 and 70, and now it won't let me offer a third time, saying I've bought too many of this item already ><

Edit: He declined $75. I guess he figured it was selling too cheap...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 16 February 2011, 23:46:32
I am from the mainland so i must support my mainland brothers in arms, audio-gd. My next purchase will be a audio-gd NFB-10ES fully balanced dac and full balanced amp. Panda's aren't known for their balance as they seem to have issues falling out of trees however this is the year 2011 and I'm going to change all that.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Thu, 17 February 2011, 07:30:26
Quote from: JelinaNU;296491
How can I be certain that I would hear a difference if I did upgrade some of my equipment.

The small amount of research that I've been able to do, this week, tells me that the source matters a great deal, regardless of the outlet.

Given too that most of my listening comes from gaming and podcasts, is it worth considering?


Headphones are important, source is even more important, the amp is well.. just get an amp that's strong enough to drive your cans. A lot of wankery is happening in the audiophile world. With more expensive headphones, you see diminishing returns. My old, ****ty headphones were almost as good as my expensive new Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro's. Less detail and less bass, that's it.

Games and podcasts are usually already lossy compressed. Not that this means a lot, I've yet to be able to separate (decent) lossy and lossless in a blind listening test. But if you're not a dedicated music-head, then I wouldn't go crazy on headphones. There are good ones even in a modest price range.

For example the Koss Porta Pro. They look like a horrible 80's remnant, but they have awesome sound for that price and a lifetime warranty. You don't need an amp for them, either.

http://www.headphone.com/selection-guide/top-picks.php

These guys are a bit more level-headed than the head-fi forum IMO.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Thu, 17 February 2011, 08:45:41
Quote from: godly_music;296651


I trust this man...if only from his name.

I guess I'll get the CMoy amp linked above for now, as well as the ATH-M50S. If I need a better one I can buy it. The ATH-M50S should work fine through my PC and laptop even without the amp, too.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Thu, 17 February 2011, 12:37:15
Quote from: .XL;296683
I trust this man...if only from his name.

I guess I'll get the CMoy amp linked above for now, as well as the ATH-M50S. If I need a better one I can buy it. The ATH-M50S should work fine through my PC and laptop even without the amp, too.


That's a good path to follow. I wouldn't start by upgrading, I'd start by diversifying. Buy what you want now, but then branch out.


Also, seriously consider the RA-1 clone. It's similarly cheap and would more than likely actually sound better.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Thu, 17 February 2011, 12:39:15
Quote from: aynjell;296779
That's a good path to follow. I wouldn't start by upgrading, I'd start by diversifying. Buy what you want now, but then branch out.


Also, seriously consider the RA-1 clone. It's similarly cheap and would more than likely actually sound better.


The only thing that kills me about this is I want the USB DAC for the random times I'll pop on CS, or to run my speakers through when I feel like laying down and blasting music over speakers.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Thu, 17 February 2011, 14:06:13
Quote from: .XL;296781
The only thing that kills me about this is I want the USB DAC for the random times I'll pop on CS, or to run my speakers through when I feel like laying down and blasting music over speakers.


The CMOY won't have that.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Thu, 17 February 2011, 15:09:57
Quote from: aynjell;296810
The CMOY won't have that.


I guess it's E7/bithead/nuforce or bust then.

On another note, I've decided on the Audio Technica M50S. My girlfriend's brother is a musician and recommended them over similar pricepoint Sennheisers, Denons, and AKGs. He did say, though, if I wanted to pick up a great pair of headphones and not worry too much about money the AKG 701s are a good idea. But yeah...money and all that jazz.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Thu, 17 February 2011, 17:00:45
Quote from: .XL;296858
I guess it's E7/bithead/nuforce or bust then.

On another note, I've decided on the Audio Technica M50S. My girlfriend's brother is a musician and recommended them over similar pricepoint Sennheisers, Denons, and AKGs. He did say, though, if I wanted to pick up a great pair of headphones and not worry too much about money the AKG 701s are a good idea. But yeah...money and all that jazz.


Be sure to let us know what you think.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JelinaNU on Thu, 17 February 2011, 18:50:24
Quote from: godly_music;296651
Games and podcasts are usually already lossy compressed. Not that this means a lot, I've yet to be able to separate (decent) lossy and lossless in a blind listening test. But if you're not a dedicated music-head, then I wouldn't go crazy on headphones. There are good ones even in a modest price range.


Thank you, GM. Your post was quite helpful. The only other issue that I can see is that my need for a mic apparently cuts the potential pool by a massive percentage. While I noticed that there are a solid number of in-ear headphones that are iPhone compatible (and therefore have a mic), I'm going to assume that the mic is of the kind that one has to hold to their mouth when speaking. That's no joy for gaming over Ventrilo.

Certainly the various gaming peripheral companies (e.g. Razer and Steelseries) have "gaming" headsets; I tend to think they're a lot of money for a lot of flash, though. I fell into that trap a few years ago when I bought my Death Adder, a Tarantula keyboard, a pair of Razer Barracuda headphones. The Death Adder I swear by. The other two were fragile, ill-functioning wastes. Razer mice withstanding, I probably won't touch another "gaming" product unless the cries of its greatness penetrate the heavens.

...

Man, this audio business is far more complicated than my foray into mechanical keyboards.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Thu, 17 February 2011, 18:58:38
Quote from: JelinaNU;296952
Thank you, GM. Your post was quite helpful. The only other issue that I can see is that my need for a mic apparently cuts the potential pool by a massive percentage. While I noticed that there are a solid number of in-ear headphones that are iPhone compatible (and therefore have a mic), I'm going to assume that the mic is of the kind that one has to hold to their mouth when speaking. That's no joy for gaming over Ventrilo.

Certainly the various gaming peripheral companies (e.g. Razer and Steelseries) have "gaming" headsets; I tend to think they're a lot of money for a lot of flash, though. I fell into that trap a few years ago when I bought my Death Adder, a Tarantula keyboard, a pair of Razer Barracuda headphones. The Death Adder I swear by. The other two were fragile, ill-functioning wastes. Razer mice withstanding, I probably won't touch another "gaming" product unless the cries of its greatness penetrate the heavens.

...

Man, this audio business is far more complicated than my foray into mechanical keyboards.


You can always get a great pair of headphones for music listening, and strap one of these (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00029MTMQ/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER) to them when you plan on gaming. That's what I'm going for. I'm not really worried about having the best quality mic, and I speak pretty loudly anyway, so it seems like the best of both worlds really. And it's really cheap!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Thu, 17 February 2011, 19:15:48
Funny, that's just the mic I bought too. Headsets usually sound bad. The only downside with the Zalman is that it won't fit on the thin (typical for cheap) headphone cables.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Thu, 17 February 2011, 20:11:51
Quote from: godly_music;296966
Funny, that's just the mic I bought too. Headsets usually sound bad. The only downside with the Zalman is that it won't fit on the thin (typical for cheap) headphone cables.

Fits fine on most "reccomended" headphones for gaming, however. ATH-AD700, MDR-V6, Grado SR80i, HD555, etc. Almost everything I've ever used for gaming it works well with. But hey, we're not really the sort to buy "cheap" stuff, are we?

It's what I use when I can find the darned thing.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: shortround on Fri, 18 February 2011, 16:20:34
I just recently picked up the Astro a40 system.  Although they seem to have mixed reviews, they are great so far for my needs.  I bought them mostly for gaming, but will use them for a lot of movies too.  I like how they're compatible with just about anything, and extremely comfortable (which means a lot to me).  I'm running Gran Turismo 5 B-spec right now in fact.  

(An online image):

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Q0l%2BGW%2B6L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NAVIWORLDINC on Sun, 20 February 2011, 17:11:07
Wow... I have been gone so long... But look my thread lives on... I need to stay around geekhack more often... ^__^
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Sun, 20 February 2011, 21:34:43
i have some ultra high end phones and a exceptionally high end loud speaker system. let's just leave it at that. i do not really want to get into the specifics.

i guess it would be a toss up between the he90 and the speakers. either is more than good enough.

the funny thing is have had nimwit's a/b with bose and they exclaimed "they both sound like headphones". lol.

it is like a cigar or irish single malt whiskey. you have to have the ability to realise the difference.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Sun, 20 February 2011, 21:47:25
Quote from: typo;298576
i have some ultra high end phones and a exceptionally high end loud speaker system. let's just leave it at that. i do not really want to get into the specifics.

i guess it would be a toss up between the he90 and the speakers. either is more than good enough.

the funny thing is have had nimwit's a/b with bose and they exclaimed "they both sound like headphones". lol.

it is like a cigar or irish single malt whiskey. you have to have the ability to realise the difference.


...i think he's trying to communicate...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: manfaux on Sun, 20 February 2011, 22:07:47
Nice thread here! as I just tossed my shabby Stelseries headphones out of my window, I am now in desperate need of another pair of good headphones.

As I know nothing about audio devices whatsoever, I will list some of the features I desire and hopefully you guys can give me an idea of what to get:

- I'm planning to use them on my PC (which has an external USB sound card connected to it) and mainly just for listening to all kinds of music, I don't care about gaming.
- Comfort is my top priority, I want it to be well-made with decent materials, and as light as possible
- I prefer an open-ear design, is that what they are called? open-ear? any way, I want to be able to hear my surroundings with them on

that's about it, my budget is $500, what headphones am I looking at?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Sun, 20 February 2011, 22:47:15
Quote from: manfaux;298592
Nice thread here! as I just tossed my shabby Stelseries headphones out of my window, I am now in desperate need of another pair of good headphones.

As I know nothing about audio devices whatsoever, I will list some of the features I desire and hopefully you guys can give me an idea of what to get:

- I'm planning to use them on my PC (which has an external USB sound card connected to it) and mainly just for listening to all kinds of music, I don't care about gaming.
- Comfort is my top priority, I want it to be well-made with decent materials, and as light as possible
- I prefer an open-ear design, is that what they are called? open-ear? any way, I want to be able to hear my surroundings with them on

that's about it, my budget is $500, what headphones am I looking at?


Came over here from my recommendation? Heheh...you came to the right place! These guys are great ;)

Remember those AT headphones I said I bought? I cancelled the order. I came through some money on eBay and I'm looking at the AKG701 (http://www.amazon.com/AKG-K-701-WHITE-HEADPHONES/dp/B000EBBJ6Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1298263429&sr=8-1) again. They look great...lot's of people have love for them, and they're fantastic for the price. If I had $500 I'd go for them and save the rest :p
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: manfaux on Sun, 20 February 2011, 23:04:52
Quote from: .XL;298605
Came over here from my recommendation? Heheh...you came to the right place! These guys are great ;)

Remember those AT headphones I said I bought? I cancelled the order. I came through some money on eBay and I'm looking at the AKG701 (http://www.amazon.com/AKG-K-701-WHITE-HEADPHONES/dp/B000EBBJ6Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1298263429&sr=8-1) again. They look great...lot's of people have love for them, and they're fantastic for the price. If I had $500 I'd go for them and save the rest :p


that AKG looks great, shape/size look perfect, is AKG a reputable brand? I've heard of them but not familiar with the brand at all.

now come to think of it, are wireless headphones any good? As long as they aren't too heavy I think I could use some less cords on my dekstop.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Sun, 20 February 2011, 23:22:16
Quote from: manfaux;298614
that AKG looks great, shape/size look perfect, is AKG a reputable brand? I've heard of them but not familiar with the brand at all.

now come to think of it, are wireless headphones any good? As long as they aren't too heavy I think I could use some less cords on my dekstop.


In my internet travels I have heard high praise of AKG. I think they're definitely a safe bet.

I wouldn't go with wireless...I doubt the sound quality would be as good. And no one say ya had to keep the headphones always plugged in...the AKG come with a really cool stand you can display them on next to your pc.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: manfaux on Mon, 21 February 2011, 11:02:13
Quote from: .XL;298622
In my internet travels I have heard high praise of AKG. I think they're definitely a safe bet.

I wouldn't go with wireless...I doubt the sound quality would be as good. And no one say ya had to keep the headphones always plugged in...the AKG come with a really cool stand you can display them on next to your pc.


Ya the last time I had a wireless headphone was a while ago and it was awfully heavy with horrid battery life, guess the sound quality isn't as good either?

does that AKG 701 have an open ear design?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 21 February 2011, 12:00:32
Quote from: manfaux;298784
Ya the last time I had a wireless headphone was a while ago and it was awfully heavy with horrid battery life, guess the sound quality isn't as good either?

does that AKG 701 have an open ear design?


Yeah it's open ear, but you need a good amp to power it apparently...puts me out of the running for one :/ Back to the ATHM50S...not that i'm sad about it or anything ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Mon, 21 February 2011, 12:34:12
the k701 can be powered very nicely by the ps audio gcha which is now half price for $499. it was well worth the original $1,000 imo.

there are some other amps which are even less money and will do it good. there are the chinese amps from pacific valve sound very nice but sometimes they explode lol.

the gcha and k701/2 is a reference quality system imo. not the finest there is but darn good.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Mon, 21 February 2011, 13:53:26
Quote from: typo;298827
the k701 can be powered very nicely by the ps audio gcha which is now half price for $499. it was well worth the original $1,000 imo.

there are some other amps which are even less money and will do it good. there are the chinese amps from pacific valve sound very nice but sometimes they explode lol.

the gcha and k701/2 is a reference quality system imo. not the finest there is but darn good.


Which amps are you talking about specifically?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 21 February 2011, 14:20:13
Quote from: typo;298827
the k701 can be powered very nicely by the ps audio gcha which is now half price for $499. it was well worth the original $1,000 imo.

there are some other amps which are even less money and will do it good. there are the chinese amps from pacific valve sound very nice but sometimes they explode lol.

the gcha and k701/2 is a reference quality system imo. not the finest there is but darn good.


Reading your comment made me think of this scene (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nyvh5wzE_g#t=8m00s) in the movie Infernal Affairs hahah...great movie!

If any of you haven't watched it yet...go. Now.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: manfaux on Mon, 21 February 2011, 15:32:02
I'm not familiar with these headphone amps, do they work the same way as an USB sound does? $499 sounds expensive for just the amp... leaves me $1 for headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Mon, 21 February 2011, 15:45:41
Quote from: ripster;298952
Using a amp with most consumer headphones is like the difference between Dark Blue/Light Blue Cherry MX and Dark Brown/Light Brown Cherry MX.

In other words not much but fun to argue about.


I can't agree here at all. Even low end headphones get much clearer sound with a decent headphone amp. And with higher end consumer headphones like the AKG K701 the difference between amp and no amp is like night and day.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Mon, 21 February 2011, 16:14:48
Quote from: manfaux;298949
I'm not familiar with these headphone amps, do they work the same way as an USB sound does? $499 sounds expensive for just the amp... leaves me $1 for headphones.


You can go for this (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003Y5FRNS/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=A15OOFJ01NGILN) usb dac which has received high reviews and praise. Alternatively, this one (http://www.headphone.com/headphone-amps/amplifiers/headroom-total-bithead.php) has received lots of praise on here and other places (head-fi I think). Which one is the best, I have no clue, but combining one of these with the AKG701 will give be great and save you ~$90.

I'm stuck in between the two, I'll be re-ordering my ATH-M50S later today and I'll give my self a couple weeks to decide which usb dac to go for :p
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Mon, 21 February 2011, 16:24:53
The GCHA (http://www.psaudio.com/ps/products/detail/gcha-headphone-amplifier) has been out for 5 years and lately there is a lot of competition out there.  How does it compare to more recent amps?  I see it's balanced, Class A so that's good.  But I have to wonder about the prices of some head amps when you can get excellent receivers for less money.  (Assuming you're not looking at portable headamps)  It seems any receiver that lacks HDMI can be picked up for next to nothing.  The model I want goes for aroun $700-800 on ebay and was over $5k a few years ago.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Mon, 21 February 2011, 20:57:55
i personally think the gcha is the best thing going for $499. it has balanced now but it is now made in china as well. i have a cullen gcha that is amongst the best ss amps there are imo.

as for the chinese amps you should know something about electronics if you opt for one of those. many examples have been unsafe to the point of exploding. i am not making that up. of course there was singlepower blowing up as well. i like to stick with companies that are known to be legit.

i am highly skilled with electronics. i took 3 years to build my tube amp and i feel there exists nothing better currently. i will not share or sell the design sorry.
some rsa and ttvj pinnacle are all that comes close to mine imo.

i think $500 is where serious amps start out if you get the right one. it does not have to be the gcha. it does have usb though. the dac1 usb is three times the money but probably better sound mainly due to the dac in it. i feel if you get a new amp for $100-$200 you are either taking a safety risk or it just won't sound any better than an av receiver.

as for av receivers, the headphone pcb generally sucks across the board in those.

i am not completely sure about what you get for what money at the entry level.
i have not used those in years.

i also feel to get $400 headphones unamped is a big waste of money.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Mon, 21 February 2011, 21:49:12
Do you use a portable headamp?

Also, seen the HLLY DMK-IV (http://cgi.ebay.com/HLLY-HIGH-END-DMK-IV-DAC-USB-Headphone-AMP-Pre-AMP-/250548484485?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a55da7985#ht_8819wt_1039)?  I know the HLLY group is unpopular for knocking off the LittleDot amps but the DMK-IV seems popular.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Tue, 22 February 2011, 01:50:56
That was the one place I thought was safe from knock offs... chinese audio gear. But nope.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 22 February 2011, 10:24:41
Quote from: aynjell;299210
That was the one place I thought was safe from knock offs... chinese audio gear. But nope.


If you ever go to Hong Kong they have some REALLY good knockoffs. Made in Hong Kong by electrical engineers in their spare time using expensive tube amps as their 'inspiration.' These knockoffs are hand made, good or better quality as $5000 tube amps, for somewhere around $800USD. A fantastic deal if you live in Hong Kong, but I wouldn't want to risk transporting them!

Source: Audiophile friend who lives 3 months a year in Hong Kong
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 22 February 2011, 10:42:53
Quote from: ripster;299335
I said most consumer headphones.

These days I go for convenience so I can pick up music anywhere in the house.  Nobody sits in their living room listening to music any more - that's why HiFi is turning into an Old Doods hobby.



GET EEEMMMM

I wouldn't want to sit in my living room just listening to music either...that'd be a rare occurence. That's where the appeal in the USB DAC lies...plug it into your laptop or any computer wherever you are and enjoy. Nice for riding the bus, metro, or just waiting in between classes. More bang-for-your-buck IMO.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Tue, 22 February 2011, 10:55:52
Quote from: ripster;299346
FLAC over Wifi.

Settle for no less.  And jitter my ass.

As mythical as the key transposition errors on my Filco Zero.


And if you were one of those rare-breed of Geekhackers that leaves their house every now and then, what should you do?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Tue, 22 February 2011, 11:05:12
PandoraOne membership for commercial-free 192k streams
Ipod/Zune or other w/high quality or lossless music
One of many portable headamps with USB DAC's built in < this is where I'm researching.

Though honestly, my triplefi 10's are fantastic straight out of an iphone/ipod and no hassle of 12ft cables that are on many premium headphones.


Quote from: .XL;299333
If you ever go to Hong Kong they have some REALLY good knockoffs. Made in Hong Kong by electrical engineers in their spare time using expensive tube amps as their 'inspiration.' These knockoffs are hand made, good or better quality as $5000 tube amps, for somewhere around $800USD. A fantastic deal if you live in Hong Kong, but I wouldn't want to risk transporting them!

Source: Audiophile friend who lives 3 months a year in Hong Kong

This can be true, but you need to know what you're getting or know someone you trust to make a recommendation.  The difference of 1 cap or solder joint can make or break you.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Tue, 22 February 2011, 11:30:16
Quote from: ripster;299358
Well, you could stream from home as well.

But I just  grab a Sansa Clip and  a $12 Phillips over the ears (http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Neckband-Headphones-SHS5200-28/dp/B003CJTR8M/ref=dp_cp_ob_e_title_1) (I look like a dork but so does every other Hipster in town with huge cans).  Buy a bunch - the jack will crap out in a few years but at $12 the performance/price ratio can't be beat.
Show Image
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41wdL0mOimL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)


 My iPod Touch hates my Shure SE530s - the noise floor is terrible (I assume due to an impedence mismatch).

Plus my motto is always match the headphones to the source and usage.


I can't stand wearing that kind of headphones for longer than 10 minutes.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Wed, 23 February 2011, 01:08:39
well it is strange about china. what you generally see for consumers usually spells low quality. or even disaster. there are some chinese amps that are original designs and are of  exceptionally high quality. they sell for 5 grand but compete with 20 grand amps! for instance xindak. the 840 series of cambridge audio is going to outperform anything in'ts price range but it can't count as wholly chinese. it is assembled in china. nad, same thing. there are  other very high end chinese products but the names escape me at the moment.

the problem with the china only imported amps is someone has to change the xformer etc. that is where it all goes downhill with these outfits. besides china does not hold companies liable like other countries afaik. i think there are some very nice cheap amps like this. i am capable of checking under the hood if you will. if you are not i'd forget those.

i am certainly not afraid to buy the right chinese products.

as asked: no, i do not use a portable amp. as none of my cans are portable. in the truest sense of the term. try wearing the he90/hev90 "orpheus". :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carefoot on Wed, 23 February 2011, 04:55:25
I am rocking some AKG-701s.  They are pretty.

(http://toilville.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/AKG-K701-big-300x300.jpg)

Can't lie however I want myself a pair of Seinheisers just so I can swap out the sound scape when these sick baller cats get boring for my ears.  Warning that these headphones crave .FLAC and anything less will rape your ears.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 23 February 2011, 06:57:05
Has anyone hear tried out/have any electrostatic earspeaker/headphones systems? I've been looking into some for my next upgrade.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 23 February 2011, 11:39:52
Quote from: typo;299692
well it is strange about china. what you generally see for consumers usually spells low quality. or even disaster. there are some chinese amps that are original designs and are of  exceptionally high quality. they sell for 5 grand but compete with 20 grand amps! for instance xindak. the 840 series of cambridge audio is going to outperform anything in'ts price range but it can't count as wholly chinese. it is assembled in china. nad, same thing. there are  other very high end chinese products but the names escape me at the moment.

the problem with the china only imported amps is someone has to change the xformer etc. that is where it all goes downhill with these outfits. besides china does not hold companies liable like other countries afaik. i think there are some very nice cheap amps like this. i am capable of checking under the hood if you will. if you are not i'd forget those.

i am certainly not afraid to buy the right chinese products.

as asked: no, i do not use a portable amp. as none of my cans are portable. in the truest sense of the term. try wearing the he90/hev90 "orpheus". :)


Actually most of the products I would be buying (little dot, audio-gd, you know... trusted chinese companies) from wouldn't require one to change a transformer, they come with the right one.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 23 February 2011, 11:44:58
Quote from: db_Iodine;298958
I can't agree here at all. Even low end headphones get much clearer sound with a decent headphone amp. And with higher end consumer headphones like the AKG K701 the difference between amp and no amp is like night and day.

Maybe it is helpful to give a little background on what makes headphones "fussy". There are several different factors:

1. Impedance variation. Will lead to bent frequency response due to interaction with output impedance. Sound will be "right" for a narrow range of output impedance values only. For example, Sennheiser HD598s (60 ohms min, 280 ohms max) sound right on a plain ol' Clip (<<10 ohms), while a typical integrated amp output jack (330..470 ohms) turns them into basshead cans with a 10 dB boost around 80 Hz. Multi-driver BA IEMs can be even worse - a Super.fi 5Pro's impedance response looks like a rollercoaster with a maximum of over 80 and a minimum of only 8 ohms. They better be optimized for some non-zero output impedance, 'cause otherwise it would take 1 ohm or less for a deviation of under 1 dB. By contrast, something like a lowly Sennheiser CX300 (in spite of its 16 ohms) or a 250 ohm Beyer DT880 are far less critical. I have recently added some impedance data and calculation for FR deviation to the headphone sensitivity table (http://stephan.win31.de/sensitivity.ods).

2. Low impedance and modest sensitivity at the same time, making an amp break into sweat more easily. K701s, for example, and orthodynamics even more so. In return, those aren't too fussy about output impedance.

3. Very high impedance can be a problem if output voltage swing just isn't too big. Some Euro-capped MP3 players can barely drive reasonably sensitive fullsize cans like my old HD590s (~110 dB SPL / 1 Vrms) to acceptable volumes, while my Rockbox'd Clip gets 600 ohm cans reasonably loud.

Oh, and ripster may want to look at a current-generation (4G) Touch. Along with the iPhone 4G, they are supposed to be near noiseless (noticeably better than a Clip+, which is not a slouch to begin with).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 23 February 2011, 12:25:49
Quote from: keyb_gr;299867
Maybe it is helpful to give a little background on what makes headphones "fussy". There are several different factors:

1. Impedance variation. Will lead to bent frequency response due to interaction with output impedance. Sound will be "right" for a narrow range of output impedance values only. For example, Sennheiser HD598s (60 ohms min, 280 ohms max) sound right on a plain ol' Clip (<<10 ohms), while a typical integrated amp output jack (330..470 ohms) turns them into basshead cans with a 10 dB boost around 80 Hz. Multi-driver BA IEMs can be even worse - a Super.fi 5Pro's impedance response looks like a rollercoaster with a maximum of over 80 and a minimum of only 8 ohms. They better be optimized for some non-zero output impedance, 'cause otherwise it would take 1 ohm or less for a deviation of under 1 dB. By contrast, something like a lowly Sennheiser CX300 (in spite of its 16 ohms) or a 250 ohm Beyer DT880 are far less critical. I have recently added some impedance data and calculation for FR deviation to the headphone sensitivity table (http://stephan.win31.de/sensitivity.ods).

2. Low impedance and modest sensitivity at the same time, making an amp break into sweat more easily. K701s, for example, and orthodynamics even more so. In return, those aren't too fussy about output impedance.

3. Very high impedance can be a problem if output voltage swing just isn't too big. Some Euro-capped MP3 players can barely drive reasonably sensitive fullsize cans like my old HD590s (~110 dB SPL / 1 Vrms) to acceptable volumes, while my Rockbox'd Clip gets 600 ohm cans reasonably loud.

Oh, and ripster may want to look at a current-generation (4G) Touch. Along with the iPhone 4G, they are supposed to be near noiseless (noticeably better than a Clip+, which is not a slouch to begin with).


I know this from personal experience. my I+ can drive HD800's but not HD580's. The HD800's and HD580's have the same impedance, but marginally different sensitivities.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 23 February 2011, 14:02:11
Quote from: aynjell;299877
I know this from personal experience. my I+ can drive HD800's but not HD580's. The HD800's and HD580's have the same impedance, but marginally different sensitivities.
But how can a few dBs make such a difference? Nominally their sensitivity should even be the same, and impedance differs by maybe 10%.

And a headphone amp that can't drive HD580s, the quintessential "OMG you need an amp!!!1" cans back in the day (and, to be honest, hardly an extremely critical load)? What did they construct that one for, martians? Or do you merely have a very quiet source?
Apparently the LD I+ has an opamp gain stage and output buffer with reasonably beefy transistors, which at least on paper seems OK and not something to fail driving a measly HD580. Of course it still has the tube stage, thus the THD+N of .2% @ 1 Vrms and .6% at 3 Vrms, so distortion will be higher for higher-impedance, lower-sensitivity cans. Still, 1 Vrms should be plenty loud on '580s, and 0.2% with a presumably 2nd-order-dominated distortion spectrum isn't anything tragic by any means.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 23 February 2011, 14:02:16
Just got my ATH-M50 in the mail! I ended up ordering the M50 instead of the M50S, the extra stretch seemed like it might come in handy.

I'm listening to them right now, they sound great! I can really feel the bass, and I'm picking up sounds in songs I love that I hadn't heard before. I'm a true believer now :p And this is all with onboard audio LOL so I'm only assuming it just gets better from here :p

I'll make sure to run some white and pink noise through them too to burn them in correctly.

I have two issues with the headphones:
1.) The earpieces swivel really easily when you grab them. With conscious effort this doesn't matter, and I'm sure I'll eventually get to the point where I just naturally grab them without issue.
2.) They are a little tight. I don't have a huge head, but it's fairly big. The band has plenty of flex to it, so I'm sure after some wear it'll loosen up.

Thanks for the help guys! I'm very happy with my purchase. I'm looking forward to 'discovering' my music like never before :p
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 23 February 2011, 14:31:12
Quote from: keyb_gr;299918
But how can a few dBs make such a difference? Nominally their sensitivity should even be the same, and impedance differs by maybe 10%.

And a headphone amp that can't drive HD580s, the quintessential "OMG you need an amp!!!1" cans back in the day (and, to be honest, hardly an extremely critical load)? What did they construct that one for, martians? Or do you merely have a very quiet source?
Apparently the LD I+ has an opamp gain stage and output buffer with reasonably beefy transistors, which at least on paper seems OK and not something to fail driving a measly HD580. Of course it still has the tube stage, thus the THD+N of .2% @ 1 Vrms and .6% at 3 Vrms, so distortion will be higher for higher-impedance, lower-sensitivity cans. Still, 1 Vrms should be plenty loud on '580s, and 0.2% with a presumably 2nd-order-dominated distortion spectrum isn't anything tragic by any means.


based on your statements I have a hard time believing you know what you're talking about.

The I+ gives approximately 150mw to 300ohms, and barely approaches listenable volumes at full volume pot. My source is not quiet, it's actually quite loud. An ipod headphone manages to be quieter than my source. The closest I can get to actually driving my 580's is plugging them into the headout of my klipsch speakers. oh well, I'll be getting a FUN soon, and it should drive everything I've got with aplomb. :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 23 February 2011, 14:45:23
Quote from: .XL;299920
I'm listening to them right now, they sound great! I can really feel the bass, and I'm picking up sounds in songs I love that I hadn't heard before.

A quote commonly heard from those picking up their first decent headphones. ;) The second time usually is when upgrading to a top-class open dynamic model. (Speaking of which, the "natural" upgrade path to ATH-M50s would seem to be HD650s.)

Another side-effect typically is that you start listening to things that never struck you as very attractive before.
Quote
I'm a true believer now :p And this is all with onboard audio LOL so I'm only assuming it just gets better from here :p

ATH-M50s aren't terribly picky and quite sensitive, so anything that doesn't mind their low-ish impedance should drive them pretty well. Unless you already have top-class onboard audio (like a decent ALC889 implementation), a $50-ish soundcard should bring another small improvement.
Quote
2.) They are a little tight. I don't have a huge head, but it's fairly big. The band has plenty of flex to it, so I'm sure after some wear it'll loosen up.

Closed cans have to be somewhat tight for best isolation, no way around that. At least these big circumaurals are reasonably comfortable, their mid-sized supraaural cousins can be quite bad since they press on the ears themselves.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 23 February 2011, 16:33:19
Quote from: keyb_gr;299939
(Speaking of which, the "natural" upgrade path to ATH-M50s would seem to be HD650s.)


They're not closed though :/

Quote

Closed cans have to be somewhat tight for best isolation, no way around that. At least these big circumaurals are reasonably comfortable, their mid-sized supraaural cousins can be quite bad since they press on the ears themselves.


I hate on-the-ear headphones for this reason. Can't stand the feeling I get after maybe half an hour with them squeezing my ears!

I have another question...what is the best media player for both OSX and Windows? I prefer to use the same program for both OS's. I've got Foobar2000 on my desktop right now, but I'm still looking for one that works on both (just for reasons of familiarity, I guess).

I might just end up using iTunes since I do quite like Genius...but I hate how the program makes my music files retarded. I don't know how to explain it...it seems like it retags all my music and splits them in so many different folders. Is it possible to just use the source folders? Or will it not use Genius correctly?

It seems like finding a good all-in-one media player is quite tough. I know ripster loves MediaMonkey, but it doesn't work on Mac.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 23 February 2011, 17:09:24
Quote from: .XL;299983
They're not closed though :/



I hate on-the-ear headphones for this reason. Can't stand the feeling I get after maybe half an hour with them squeezing my ears!

I have another question...what is the best media player for both OSX and Windows? I prefer to use the same program for both OS's. I've got Foobar2000 on my desktop right now, but I'm still looking for one that works on both (just for reasons of familiarity, I guess).

I might just end up using iTunes since I do quite like Genius...but I hate how the program makes my music files retarded. I don't know how to explain it...it seems like it retags all my music and splits them in so many different folders. Is it possible to just use the source folders? Or will it not use Genius correctly?

It seems like finding a good all-in-one media player is quite tough. I know ripster loves MediaMonkey, but it doesn't work on Mac.

For MAC, I know of lot of audiophiles still rely on itunes.

For WIN, Foobar is the goto app and is by far the best. Anything I need to do with music i seem to be able to do with foobar with minimal fuss.

Some people use Exact Audio Copy to rip CD's. I use foobar with the integrity verifier plugin, it checks the same sources in the same fashion. Providing you get an accurate rip and it checks out, the end result should be exactly the same. That's one app down.

I love foobar's ability to be any type of player, a playlist style player, a media library style player, etc. I prefer the media library approach and I can totally do that with foobar, albeit configuration can be a bit difficult it's pretty darned powerful.

The verifier also works for files you didn't rip. As long as it's gapless, it can check the integrity of an album you get, whether by friends or otherwise.

Also, it works with audioscrobbler, a feature that while pointless is fun to have available. It's nice to be able to actually QUANTIFY your favourites.

You can even edit tags using foobar, albeit the tagging in mp3tag is ultimately more powerful, and I still haven't figured out how to add album art to the files with foobar.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 23 February 2011, 17:42:04
I guess until a better alternative presents itself, iTunes is the best bet for me?

And I also guess my issue with foobar lies with my complete lack of knowledge of how to do anything in foobar haha...it seems like it needs at least some sort of scripting ability. I can't really make heads or tails of it so I just use the basic black layout :/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 23 February 2011, 18:17:29
I didn't have to delve into scripting at all and still found Foobar to be plenty powerful. Even the default UI customized nicely in "layout editing mode". (Then again, I'm not that picky with the visuals. It's got to be readable and functional, and that's about it.)
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=15594&stc=1&d=1298506186)

My most important plugins: Audioscrobbler and Lyrics Show 2. I have ASIO output installed but use plain ol' DirectSound since it allows the "output front stereo on all channel pairs" feature to work.

In order to take advantage of a full Replaygain implementation when using iTunes, you want to be using qNormal or iVolume.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Wed, 23 February 2011, 18:21:45
Quote from: .XL;300030
I guess until a better alternative presents itself, iTunes is the best bet for me?

And I also guess my issue with foobar lies with my complete lack of knowledge of how to do anything in foobar haha...it seems like it needs at least some sort of scripting ability. I can't really make heads or tails of it so I just use the basic black layout :/


Start an album up and while you're doing that start fscking around with it a bit in layout editing mode. After that, start looking for things it wish it could do. Since it's the audiophile's first choice, odds are it will have a plugin or the feature by default to do what you want to do.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Wed, 23 February 2011, 20:34:12
Quote
I guess until a better alternative presents itself, iTunes is the best bet for me?


*spit take*

Anything but iTunes. Why people put up with that software mystifies me.

Foobar is a wonderful program, but it is intimidating to use at first (and it runs well on wine. You use a Mac, correct?) Otherwise, Songbird is a good choice. Not sure about replacements for Genius, though...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Wed, 23 February 2011, 22:18:57
Thanks for all the tips...

@keyb_gr and aynjell: I'll just play around with it and work it to my liking, once I get my library in order...no mean feat :/

So, turns out iTunes destroyed almost all my tags (when I first started my music collection I was careful with about the first 15 gigs, then just stopped caring). What was tagged correctly was turned into a mess by what I can only assume is iTunes.

I'm about 50% through my library right now, I've gotten most of the music in the right folders, now have to organize it and then get it all tagged in MP3tag.

@Daniel: Are you using it through WINE? That's the only feasible solution I've found.

@ripster: you really don't like foobar, huh? I'll give mediamonkey a try, since ya endorse it so heavily :p
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Thu, 24 February 2011, 00:48:53
Quote from: ripster;300105
MediaMonkey & MagicNodes.  Better tagging than Foobar.  REACT & EAC, better ripping than Foobar.

The ripping wouldn't be any better. I can say that for sure. I explained that in an above post. EAC's primary feature is the ability to verify the integrity of the RIP afterwards. Foobar, with a plugin, can do the same thing without throwing up a red flag in my av program of choice.

Also it's one less program I have to use. Foobar can select from a variety of ripping modes and a even control the speed of the drive so you really have a lot of control over the ripping process and have the capacity of getting assured results just like you would with foobar. So... eac is kind of worthless as a standalone program.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Thu, 24 February 2011, 06:29:01
Quote
@Daniel: Are you using it through WINE? That's the only feasible solution I've found.

I normally am a windows user, but on my xubuntu rig at school I run it through wine. It is simple to do on linux, so I imagine it would be straightforward on wine for OS X.

In regards to the Foobar vs other media players argument...
I use separate programs for tagging and ripping (mp3tag and EAC), which are somewhat more functional than Foobar. I am not averse to using more than one program for media management. You spend 99% of that time in your media player anyways.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Thu, 24 February 2011, 15:46:14
Quote from: Daniel Beaver;300251
I normally am a windows user, but on my xubuntu rig at school I run it through wine. It is simple to do on linux, so I imagine it would be straightforward on wine for OS X.

In regards to the Foobar vs other media players argument...
I use separate programs for tagging and ripping (mp3tag and EAC), which are somewhat more functional than Foobar. I am not averse to using more than one program for media management. You spend 99% of that time in your media player anyways.


I've been using Mp3tag, it seems to work quite well. I don't really need to rip music since I only have a few cds I haven't ripped yet.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Orphagn on Thu, 24 February 2011, 15:50:22
I have a pair of Corsair HS1's and they feel really nice. Only downside to them for me is that they're USB, but it's required since it has it's own sound processor built in. I haven't messed with the sound settings too much since i'm not really an audiophile, but they sound fine to me. They have a 3.5mm input model (HS1A), without the build in sound processor for those that haven their own sound card.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YpoCaramel on Sun, 27 February 2011, 00:55:13
Quote from: ripster;299358
My iPod Touch hates my Shure SE530s - the noise floor is terrible (I assume due to an impedence mismatch).

Plus my motto is always match the headphones to the source and usage.

They didn't come with am attenunator of some kind? Wait, that was probably UE.... (sorry! I can't remember what came with my SE530s five years ago!) Well you can try one of those or this is one of those situations where a $20cheap amp might actually come in useful...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Sun, 27 February 2011, 09:47:08
Carefoot, those are good looking.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Sun, 27 February 2011, 20:35:48
Quote from: YpoCaramel;301617
They didn't come with am attenunator of some kind? Wait, that was probably UE.... (sorry! I can't remember what came with my SE530s five years ago!) Well you can try one of those or this is one of those situations where a $20cheap amp might actually come in useful...

Amp is prolly better since SE530s are among the more fussy multi-driver BA jobs when it comes to source impedance. The average UE attenuator has 100 ohms in series and 15 ohms in parallel for like 13 ohms or so, and for those Shures I wouldn't recommend more than 1 ohm (which will give a FR deviation of less than 1 dB).

A little Fiio E5 should already do a fairly decent job.

Yes, an amplifier still makes the best attenuator.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Chobopants on Tue, 08 March 2011, 10:21:06
HD555s (iphone camera so the color is off and it looks like 595s, haha) into a Rolls headphone amp for home. At work I use HD280s straight into my computer. I used to use Etymotics hf2s for commuting/gym but they got caught on my ebrake as I was exiting my car and they exploded. :(

(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5094/5509073429_fe4cded920.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 08 March 2011, 12:17:07
my 595's feel so lacking in the UMPH department these days. I've been rocking around with a subwoofer in my near field monitor setup. I need BOOM BOOM BOOM.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 08 March 2011, 12:35:48
Quote from: ripster;307726

I used to have ButtShakers on my gaming chair and then one day I moved beyond OCN puberty. (http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=300-863)


I understand your desires for personal growth but you forgot that buttshakers help promote regular bowel movements. I guess its not a good thing if u poop on ur chair though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: typo on Sun, 20 March 2011, 00:45:09
if you are able to setup foobar right for your needs the quality is outstanding.
i am streaming 128kbps radio and it is close to cd quality. i know that seems impossible. it is upsampled to meet the soundcard and then further upsampled by the dac. wasapi. i have not lost a packet in over 10 weeks and the station is on the other side of the world. winamp cannot come close.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Roasty on Sun, 20 March 2011, 01:01:24
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5014/5468417668_4cfe43d2f3.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_roasty/5468417668/)

Schiit Valhalla


(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5218/5468416038_ff981e7ab4.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_roasty/5468416038/)

Senn HD650 + Zu Mobius & Gamma 2 dac


(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5180/5468415520_4188a63cc2.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_roasty/5468415520/)

Alessandro MS2i



.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sun, 20 March 2011, 01:25:02
Quote from: Roasty;314639
Show Image
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5014/5468417668_4cfe43d2f3.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_roasty/5468417668/)


Schiit Valhalla

Hows the Valhalla go with the HD650? I can't wait for my 650's to get here but now I'm in search of an amp to match them with. Was thinking Crack OTL but imma so lazy for DIY these days.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: .XL on Sun, 20 March 2011, 01:29:51
Quote from: panda-R;314647
Hows the Valhalla go with the HD650? I can't wait for my 650's to get here but now I'm in search of an amp to match them with. Was thinking Crack OTL but imma so lazy for DIY these days.


...panda-R out of character? lolwut?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Roasty on Sun, 20 March 2011, 02:42:20
Quote from: panda-R;314647
Hows the Valhalla go with the HD650? I can't wait for my 650's to get here but now I'm in search of an amp to match them with. Was thinking Crack OTL but imma so lazy for DIY these days.

i was initially worried that they would be too warm sounding for the HD650, but i'm actually quite happy with the pairing. very lush, full bodied sound and surprisingly large sound stage (.. then again i'm coming from a Corda Headfive which i felt had a really small sound stage). bass is clean and quite fast for a tube amp. i listen to all genres of music and it handles them quite well.

i think the schiit amps are quite hard to beat given the price range. other options i was looking at were the WooAudio amps as well as the Headamps, but they were a bit pricey for me. considered going the Little Dot route but wasnt too keen on their design / look.

quite a few people on head-fi.org have paired the HD650 with the Burson HA-160; i also considered this but decided to give tube amps a try this time round. u may want to look into this if you're thinking of going the solid state route.

if you're getting a HD650, you should look into aftermarket cables.. the Zu Mobius i have is a really good upgrade over the stock cable.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sun, 20 March 2011, 11:29:15
Quote from: .xl;314648
...panda-r out of character? Lolwut?


i love boobs!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ktkr on Sun, 20 March 2011, 11:35:30
Quote from: Roasty;314639

Show Image
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5218/5468416038_ff981e7ab4.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_roasty/5468416038/)


Senn HD650 + Zu Mobius & Gamma 2 dac


Nice picture. AMB y2 sure is a fine piece of gear.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sun, 20 March 2011, 11:35:45
@roasty, thx for the impressions... i was saving up for the audio-gd NFB-10ES as peeps have been saying it pairs well with the HD650 but it's so hard to resist trying cheap options out there considering i already have a dac to boot.

Where did u get the Zu? i can't seem to find anything online.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Roasty on Sun, 20 March 2011, 21:14:08
Quote from: ktkr;314776
Nice picture. AMB y2 sure is a fine piece of gear.


thanks! had mine built by MisterX as i'm hopeless in DIY.


Quote from: panda-R;314777
@roasty, thx for the impressions... i was saving up for the audio-gd NFB-10ES as peeps have been saying it pairs well with the HD650 but it's so hard to resist trying cheap options out there considering i already have a dac to boot.

Where did u get the Zu? i can't seem to find anything online.


So far the only audio-gd product i had a chance to try was the DAC-19 at my friend's house. just checked the price of the NFB-10ES, lol its $880 excluding roughly $100 in shipping costs..! for that budget, u have many amp options.. haha enjoy picking one out. go to a headphone meet and test a few before u decide! i tried a WooAudio 6SE and fell in love..

i got the Zu Mobius cable about 5-6 years ago. it may no longer be in production :( maybe check head-fi.org if anyone has it for sale second hand?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: strum4h on Sun, 20 March 2011, 23:41:58
I have Audiotechnica ATH-700's and they are fantastic. I want to try out a pair of grados though I am looking to get some new ones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Half-Saint on Mon, 21 March 2011, 04:46:57
Just picked up brand new Sony MDR-RF810RK. Batteries finnished charging up this morning so I'll finally be able to test them. I just wish they included a carrying case with the headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Mon, 21 March 2011, 08:51:30
Quote from: Half-Saint;315151
Just picked up brand new Sony MDR-RF810RK. Batteries finnished charging up this morning so I'll finally be able to test them. I just wish they included a carrying case with the headphones.
As long as you're aware that wireless cans like that are mainly geared towards TV watching and that those in particular need pretty high output levels from the source if the transmitter is not to turn off automatically, they should be OK.
Quote from: panda-R;314777
@roasty, thx for the impressions... i was saving up for the audio-gd NFB-10ES as peeps have been saying it pairs well with the HD650 but it's so hard to resist trying cheap options out there considering i already have a dac to boot.

Where did u get the Zu? i can't seem to find anything online.
In terms of audio, you could do no worse than relying on word of mouth. On Head-Fi, anything can be FOTM. Fact is, a HD650 is not a very difficult load. Also, the Audio-gd amps may be fancy and sport a high parts count, but I'm afraid they're not particularly good amplifiers (not untypically for Chinese audiophile gear, it seems). Unless you consider competing with a smartphone impressive (http://dl.project-voodoo.org/RMAA/reports/nfb-12-galaxys-voodoosound-load-hd650.htm), that is.

Fancy upgrade cables are pretty much audiophile snake oil. The HD650's stock one is perfectly fine.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Roasty on Mon, 21 March 2011, 09:35:29
Quote from: keyb_gr;315194

Fancy upgrade cables are pretty much audiophile snake oil. The HD650's stock one is perfectly fine.


i still have my stock HD650 cable. switching between it and the Zu cable, they definitely sound different. go figure.

to each their own i guess.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 21 March 2011, 10:50:59
Quote from: keyb_gr;315194

In terms of audio, you could do no worse than relying on word of mouth. On Head-Fi, anything can be FOTM.


tehehe but i guess that applies also to your opinions also? :D

Don't worry I only ask peoples opinion to see what they think, in the end I almost always choose something else regardless of positive or negative opinion.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Half-Saint on Mon, 21 March 2011, 11:56:53
Quote from: keyb_gr;315194
As long as you're aware that wireless cans like that are mainly geared towards TV watching and that those in particular need pretty high output levels from the source if the transmitter is not to turn off automatically, they should be OK.


Hrm, I actually bought them so I could use them with the PC. Tested them shortly on my SONY KDL-EX500 and the sound was fine but I did have to crank up the volume to 30-ish on the TV. I have yet to listen to some music.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 21 March 2011, 12:05:03
Quote from: ripster;315268
Bwahahahaha!  I made you buy a HD595!!!!!

If I knew you were such a basshead I would have told you to have your ear canals surgically enlarged!

dood i am not da huge basshead but da 595's are a little on the lean side. Besides, i'm moar into boobs than bass.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 22 March 2011, 16:58:03
I FEEL THE BEAT!

(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5254/5550857673_fac2c0b6dc_b.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Half-Saint on Wed, 23 March 2011, 01:16:28
Sony MDF-RF810RK and Wi-Fi don't go well together. The wifi router is right next to my monitor and I played some Team Fortress 2 but I could hear this constant annoying beating sound that goes 'tup-tup-tup-tup' in the background. It goes away, if I turn off the router. I tried changing channels on the router and the headphones to no avail. The annoying sound remains even, if I turn off the Sony RF transmitter. Stupid.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nmd on Wed, 23 March 2011, 08:02:44
Quote from: panda-R;316236
I FEEL THE BEAT!

Show Image
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5254/5550857673_fac2c0b6dc_b.jpg)


So jealous.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 23 March 2011, 09:13:39
Quote from: nmd;316647
So jealous.


it's like having an orgasm in your ears... oh wait that doesn't sound too good.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 23 March 2011, 16:00:35
Quote from: panda-R;316687
it's like having an orgasm in your ears... oh wait that doesn't sound too good.
In fact, they do call this "eargasm".

I used to have a HD650, but it was the older, reportedly darker-sounding version (pre-~2007). And dark-sounding this one was - its sonic signature clashed heavily with my monitor speakers. Pretty clampy, too. Ultimately I went back to a well-worn HD580, which proved a lot easier to adjust to (and more comfy to boot, especially with the DIY headband padding).

I later sold the '650s, at which point it turned out that they must have been from some production lot that had lacquer problems - the stuff partly peeled off en route to the buyer. Both parties weren't amused.

HD595s bass-light? Must have been the older, "bass-shy" 50 ohm version.
Quote from: Half-Saint;316548
Sony MDF-RF810RK and Wi-Fi don't go well together. The wifi router is right next to my monitor and I played some Team Fortress 2 but I could hear this constant annoying beating sound that goes 'tup-tup-tup-tup' in the background. It goes away, if I turn off the router. I tried changing channels on the router and the headphones to no avail. The annoying sound remains even, if I turn off the Sony RF transmitter. Stupid.
Looks like the 2.4 GHz radiation is getting into the Sony's 863 MHz receiver somehow and made audible by the FM discriminator. Maybe frontend filtering isn't too great, or some amplifier is acting as an RF demodulator here. (I certainly wouldn't expect any miracles from €30 wireless cans.)

I have an old pocket radio - all through-hole - where some part in the FM receiver seems susceptible to GSM radiation. A somewhat newer model shows a lot less, but it took a leap into the surface mount era to eliminate this almost completely.

What do you need a wireless set for anyway if you're right at the computer? It'll just sound needlessly bad.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 23 March 2011, 16:04:32
So far I have thoroughly enjoyed my HD650's despite their thick and voluptuous dark sound.  Now the question that remains is if I should be happy with these or continue my quest for audio Nirvana?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 23 March 2011, 16:24:37
Purely on a technical level, it doesn't get much better than these any more, just different - which, of course, you might prefer. Heck, there are enough people swearing by Grados, in spite of rather modest measured performance (or maybe because of it, as it tends to emphasize their sonic characteristics - I'd call them "guitar amp wideband speaker simulator").

I'd say before contracting upgraditis again, better look at the "software" side. How much music do you have, and how much of it do you listen to on any kind of regular basis?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nmd on Wed, 23 March 2011, 16:32:07
Curiously, what would you recommend for headphones intended to be used heavily(6-8 hours)? Preferably closed but open is fine too.

Stipulation: roughly $100(on sale :P) and must be stupidly comfortable. Thinking ath-ad700.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 23 March 2011, 16:32:37
I have my regular rotation and most people would say go for grados but I am not convinced that the grados would be anything special. I may try some one day. I hope my LOVELY CUBE will scratch some of this itch I've had lately.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 23 March 2011, 16:35:18
Quote from: nmd;317094
Curiously, what would you recommend for headphones intended to be used heavily(6-8 hours)? Preferably closed but open is fine too.

Stipulation: roughly $100(on sale :P) and must be stupidly comfortable. Thinking ath-ad700.


do you want to feel the beat like I do? If so you may want to stray away from some of the AT's... I found my ATH-A900Ti's to be slightly on the lean side.

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4190598895_d9eaf225f8_z.jpg?zz=1)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Roasty on Wed, 23 March 2011, 21:20:53
Quote from: panda-R;317058
So far I have thoroughly enjoyed my HD650's despite their thick and voluptuous dark sound.  Now the question that remains is if I should be happy with these or continue my quest for audio Nirvana?


i've bought and sold off a few headphones over the years, but the only headphone i've kept all this while was the Senn HD650 (also my first serious headphone purchase). it is the thick and voluptuous sound that always draws me back to it.

my only gripe with the hd650 is i find it localizes sound very well to the lateral regions, but is poor in imaging the sound from a front / diagonal perspective.

i keep the ms2i for good measure. after periods of listening with the ms2i, on switching back to the hd650, i always enjoy the full bodied sound and luscious vocals.

i've yet to try the HD800..
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 23 March 2011, 22:03:22
@roasty... mmmm voluptuous. You're right about the imaging towards the front, I found it a little shallow in that direction compared to my HD595's but it makes up for it in like everything else.

@ripster, the HD595's sound almost perfect with a sub playing along with it. Oh and they're way more comfy than the HD650's!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 23 March 2011, 23:18:12
MY FACE feels like imploding with the HD650's. Is this a good reason to buy another set of headphones?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DeltaGunner on Thu, 24 March 2011, 01:28:13
I have a Reloop RHP-10 Cherryblack with a RHM-10 mic attached. (Will post pics later).
Only downside is its stereo so im gonna go for a CM Storm Sirus which i have tested on CeBIT. The Sirus is real 5.1 with USB considering that i dont have a Sound Card that is kinda necessary.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 24 March 2011, 01:42:39
Quote from: ripster;317451
I thought I heard you coming.

Ewww............


DOOD CMON, i'm not that loud. You make me sound like a Rhino giving birth.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Exoverture on Thu, 24 March 2011, 03:04:22
After exploring the Sennheiser front (HD555 all the way to HD800's)... I can safely say they are not really my thing. They are a joy for classical though.

I have since down scaled my whole setup (too much $$$... awfully expensive hobby lol). I've been perfectly content with this for the last 10 months or so: Maverick D1 Tube Magic & DT990PRO 250ohm.

I was really missing that kick with the Senns. Even with questionably expensive DAC/Amps... so I decided to move to the DT990.

Very much a joy to listen to... and only for ~$460!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Thu, 24 March 2011, 03:51:24
Quote from: Julle;317475
That's actually modelled after a 4D ultrasound image of a fetus.

Why so sirius, Fetus?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 24 March 2011, 10:08:20
TUBES make da crunch awesoune though, like captain crunch.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Thu, 24 March 2011, 11:20:34
Quote from: nmd;317094
Curiously, what would you recommend for headphones intended to be used heavily(6-8 hours)? Preferably closed but open is fine too.
You generally don't want to use closed cans for 6..8 hours in a row. Comfy open ones ftw.
Quote
Stipulation: roughly $100(on sale :P) and must be stupidly comfortable. Thinking ath-ad700.
There's not that much choice in this price region. Either those, or some HD555s ($85 at Amazon).
AD700s are a little on the lean side...
(http://graphs.headphone.com/graphCompare.php?graphType=0&graphID%5B%5D=2661&graphID%5B%5D=563)
(do note that the HD555s shown here are not the "bass-light" version)
...but should be a whole lot less fussy about output impedance.
(http://graphs.headphone.com/graphCompare.php?graphType=7&graphID%5B%5D=2661&graphID%5B%5D=563)
Quote from: ripster;317653
I always thought Tubes compressed the frequencies too much (because they do).
 
Oh, you certainly can build good amps with 'em, as long as you don't mind big, heavy, power hungry and expensive. Like this. (http://www.cavalliaudio.com/lf.php) The same applies to receivers (http://www.r-390a.us/).

Did you know that the still-common EF95 (/6AK5, RF pentode) essentially is a repackaged RV12P2000, as used way back when in the Telefunken E-52 "Köln" (http://www.cdvandt.org/koeln_e_52.htm) (the only tube type in that one, btw)?
Quote
Tubes are the Topres of HeadFi.
More like Logitech G series boards. Bling outside, meh inside.
Quote
OK for guitar amps though.  Guitars live in the midrange with lots of dirty signals.
Overdriving properties are another story entirely. Tubes tend to be well-behaved here, with none of the "lock-up" issues that can take semiconductor-based amplifiers a while to recover after they hit supplies (let alone inversion, as encountered with some opamps).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 24 March 2011, 12:08:01
i like keyb_gr! He's very technical and handsome.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 24 March 2011, 12:22:39
dood nah, i just get them to give me da 115v transformer of DOOM!

plus all those cheap chinese tube amps are so cheap because they're inexpensive also known as cheap.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 24 March 2011, 12:35:58
Quote from: ripster;317772

Long Live CHAIRMAN MAO!  


chairman mao is my uncle. He left me the entire north east of china in his will. Do you think I should get a tube amp for my HD650's?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DejaHu on Tue, 29 March 2011, 20:42:09
I also have AD-700s plugged into a mixamp.  Only difference is my headphones are modded with a detachable Boom Mic.  Custom cabling for mic support and new paint scheme as well.    (https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_JVTrCm2EgJU/TVsDMh4riKI/AAAAAAAADNE/Xbdwq3zMQE0/s912/IMG_0362.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_JVTrCm2EgJU/TVsDM2LwRMI/AAAAAAAADNI/ZS9LO4IYY5M/s912/IMG_0363.JPG)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DejaHu on Tue, 29 March 2011, 20:48:59
anyone who has sennheiser 555s, the best trick ever:   http://www.hardwarecanucks.com/forum/audio/40761-buy-sennheiser-555s-turn-them-into-595s.html      All you do is open the ear cup and take out the foam, voila, you have senn 595s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suntorytime on Tue, 29 March 2011, 21:24:23
Quote from: keyb_gr;317718
You generally don't want to use closed cans for 6..8 hours in a row. Comfy open ones ftw.



I don't know, I find my Beyerdynamics DT770 Pro really comfortable, they are almost as comfortable as my RIP Sony MDR-F1's.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DejaHu on Tue, 29 March 2011, 21:52:26
https://picasaweb.google.com/ThompsonRyan  Different models require different steps.  Really is never the same process each time.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Wed, 30 March 2011, 07:35:47
Anyone use the AD700 for work? I know they are open air cans but does the sound escape as bad as the hd555s?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DejaHu on Wed, 30 March 2011, 08:12:53
they sound as bad as all open air headphones will.  One isn't going to be amazingly better.  I believe the ad900 are closed
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suntorytime on Wed, 30 March 2011, 08:52:04
Quote from: DejaHu;321144
https://picasaweb.google.com/ThompsonRyan  Different models require different steps.  Really is never the same process each time.

Looks like you commission the mods. How much do you normally charge for a job such as that? They all look great.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DejaHu on Wed, 30 March 2011, 09:00:19
it used to be $50 up front and you supply the headphones.  That ended up being a terrible idea b/c of the kind of work that goes into each.  So now when you want to buy a new set of headphones, yours will already be pre-modded.  You just pay a fixed rate depending on the cans you choose.  Just call ahead and say what color scheme you want.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DejaHu on Wed, 30 March 2011, 09:17:00
http://www.markertek.com for most
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Wed, 30 March 2011, 16:18:00
Quote from: DejaHu;321314
they sound as bad as all open air headphones will.  One isn't going to be amazingly better.  I believe the ad900 are closed


Think you meant the a900s?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NimbleRabit on Wed, 30 March 2011, 21:50:08
Some of the AD700's on that site look absolutely stunning.  I want to do the same kind of thing to mine - kind of makes me wish I knew anything about audio or modding at all.  I wonder if it's worth ruining my headphones . . .

Does anybody know of some guides or someplace I can read to get started trying to do something like that to my ad700?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Half-Saint on Thu, 31 March 2011, 03:12:42
Quote from: keyb_gr;315194
As long as you're aware that wireless cans like that are mainly geared towards TV watching and that those in particular need pretty high output levels from the source if the transmitter is not to turn off automatically, they should be OK.


I'm sending them back - pissing me off! They're useless for listening to the music on my laptop as the sound is screwed up. This is best described as 'huge variations in pressure within my ear, where there should be none'. It's annoying and I couldn't feel this with my other cans. RF interference is an added minus.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 07 April 2011, 00:52:33
I love headphones!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Thu, 07 April 2011, 09:02:57
Quote from: ripster;321349
I was looking for the two pin ones.



Lemo connectors/plugs might work for you and some are on ebay.  I believe that is what is used on my VPI turntable.  It's a 4 pin but they also make 2 pin versions.  

(http://images.tradekool.com/173066000/Lemo-1b-2-Pin-Connector.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 19 April 2011, 23:31:07
This thread needs reviving.

(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5142/5625985863_0f5bcdea5c_b.jpg)

I find I like the DT880/600s when I haven't listened to my HD650s for awhile.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 20 April 2011, 11:18:52
Quote from: ripster;333998
They'll sound even better back in the box!

you're so mean to the DT880s, what have they ever done to you!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 20 April 2011, 13:56:16
She's missing 3 buttons.  Probably stolen while sleeping on the subway.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 20 April 2011, 15:56:44
Quote from: panda-R;333978
I find I like the DT880/600s when I haven't listened to my HD650s for awhile.
Which is understandable, given the difference in highs (and, to a lesser degree, bass).
(http://graphs.headphone.com/graphCompare.php?graphType=0&graphID%5B%5D=853&graphID%5B%5D=2751)
Interesting how they track pretty well within the mids.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: strum4h on Wed, 20 April 2011, 16:23:52
How much did those cans cost
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 20 April 2011, 16:45:27
Quote from: keyb_gr;334404
Which is understandable, given the difference in highs (and, to a lesser degree, bass).
Show Image
(http://graphs.headphone.com/graphCompare.php?graphType=0&graphID%5B%5D=853&graphID%5B%5D=2751)

Interesting how they track pretty well within the mids.

 
They're similar but the soundstaging makes the DT880 sound less involving for me. Also the HD650 has noticeably better mids than that graph would lead to believe. The treble is spot on.

Quote from: strum4h;334426
How much did those cans cost


$269 from amazon! I heard it it can get to $249 but I didn't want to wait.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 20 April 2011, 18:43:53
german engineering is so awesome. Sometimes I wish I was a bratwurst.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Mon, 25 April 2011, 18:46:45
My Porta Pro's bit the dust after about seven years of use, so HD595s are in the mail.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Mon, 25 April 2011, 18:55:17
Quote from: ripster;334496
$269!~

Too much.

Sennys are always worth what they are priced because German engineering DESERVES respect.

For those who are going after higher end headphones beyers(DT880s) are worth it along with the DT770s if you want more bass-orientation. Of course this is an area with a lot of competition like the ultrasone and whatnot but you'll always see someone mention the beyers here and there at the price range.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 25 April 2011, 21:22:59
LOLz!

I didn't sell my HD595's on headfi :P

and I think I'll get the Beyers around for a bit, they so comfy and the soundstage is HUGE!!! plus i can't wait for some giant tubes to troll them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: strum4h on Tue, 26 April 2011, 02:13:38
I want a good set of grado's to replace my ath-700s as my daily driver. Anyone have any suggestions. I love how comfortable the ath-700s are and am worried that the grados are not as comfortable.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 26 April 2011, 08:32:08
Quote from: strum4h;337374
I want a good set of grado's to replace my ath-700s as my daily driver. Anyone have any suggestions. I love how comfortable the ath-700s are and am worried that the grados are not as comfortable.

Out of the two Grado's I have, the sr60's are the least comfortable. The flat pads push your ears against your head and I find it impossible to wear them for over 2-3 hours. The 325is's on the other hand are much more manageable. The doughnut pads are perfect for my small ears (my ears fit completely on the inside of the pad. But since they are aluminum, they are quite heavy and the top of my head starts to hurt after about 3-4 hours.

Both sound great, so that's what I keep them around.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pfink on Wed, 27 April 2011, 15:37:53
Quote from: Daniel Beaver;337218
My Porta Pro's bit the dust after about seven years of use, so HD595s are in the mail.

Koss has a lifetime warranty, you might be able to swing a free replacement for the Porta Pros.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 27 April 2011, 16:14:37
Quote from: pfink;338197
Koss has a lifetime warranty, you might be able to swing a free replacement for the Porta Pros.

that is if you want another protapro to throw into the drawer and never be used :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Mon, 02 May 2011, 15:14:07
Etymotic ER6is have good detail but they really do not have bass. They're pretty good for $60 or whatever they cost now. HD580/600/650 are definitely more comfortable than the HD515/555/595. I would say HD580s are the best value in headphones (you have to buy used and get replacement ear pads though).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NimbleRabit on Mon, 02 May 2011, 15:46:28
Quote from: ripster;340522
Don't get me started on earphones.

Worse price/performance of any audio equipment.

Even a Ducky keyboard has a better price/performance ratio.

 
If you mean that afater a certain point the returns for increased cost is really low for earphones, I agree with you 100%.  I have bought a few different pairs trying to find something I really liked, and I quickly learned that the difference between a $75 (or even $50) pair of earphones and a $200 pair really isn't very much.  I'd rather spend that money on practically anything else and get much better returns.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Mon, 02 May 2011, 15:57:28
Quote from: ripster;340542
I don't think that big fuzzy headed panda guy would agree about the HD650>HD595 comfort thing.

I like my HD595.  But I rarely wear them since dancing to J-Pop is difficult with them on.

Probably not. Signature stress cracks galore I would assume. At least we know every model is more comfortable than any Grado :) So sad as I loved Grados sometimes.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YetAnotherDeveloper on Mon, 02 May 2011, 16:06:55
Quote from: ripster;340542
I don't think that big fuzzy headed panda guy would agree about the HD650>HD595 comfort thing.

I like my HD595.  But I rarely wear them since dancing to J-Pop is difficult with them on.

I wear my HD595's 6+ hours a day (most days) and i almost never notice they are on my head... though after particularly long sessions i can start to feel them but its never anything that is an issue. I also cant compare them to the HD650's or any others that are worth a crap.  I did base my purchase on the feedback and info on head-fi.org
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 02 May 2011, 16:15:31
WOWS, HD595 >>>>> HD650 on initial comfort, i suspect it becomes HD595 > HD650 comfort over x amount of time.

Apparently since the HD650s are reference level cans they are designed to cause your face to implode. Even I find my Beyer DT880 to be not so comfortable after a while, semi-implosion factor.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YetAnotherDeveloper on Mon, 02 May 2011, 16:35:29
Quote from: ripster;340591
I crack under stress too.  Especially when driving.

Earbuds cause your eardrums to implode making Audiologist doctors wealthy.

That reminds me.  I need to load up on Hearing Aid stock.

What? Whats that you say?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 02 May 2011, 17:22:38
Quote from: YetAnotherDeveloper;340601
What? Whats that you say?

dood cmon it very easy to follow

A -> B -> Bananas -> Gerbils and Richard Gere = Grandma.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 03 May 2011, 22:07:19
Thinking about getting this (http://www.amazon.com/Grado-RS1i-Reference-Series-Headphones/dp/B00076VEG6) and this (http://signalpathint.com/index.php/Nova/Nova.html) later this summer from here (http://www.yeswehaveawebsite.com/)

I went there over the weekend and listened to their Vandersteen Model 7 rig... truly amazing. Even if it costs around 100,000 USD.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Tue, 03 May 2011, 22:13:28
Grado RS-1s are probably my favorite headphones out of everything I owned (they weren't the "i" model, they had buttons). Stax Lambdas were my other favorite and I definitely prefer them for some things. I've heard great things from friends about the DACs in the Peachtree integrated amps and that the amp is sufficient.

I would love to hear that speaker rig.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 03 May 2011, 22:26:07
Quote from: kpeezy;341329
Grado RS-1s are probably my favorite headphones out of everything I owned (they weren't the "i" model, they had buttons). Stax Lambdas were my other favorite and I definitely prefer them for some things. I've heard great things from friends about the DACs in the Peachtree integrated amps and that the amp is sufficient.

I would love to hear that speaker rig.

Before I walked into that store I had no idea how expensive the world of home audio could get.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YpoCaramel on Tue, 03 May 2011, 23:40:42
IEM to full-sized price ratio is getting better, Westone 4 and Sony EX1000 at $400-450 (in Asia) can probably match HD595, maybe better in some ways, though it's been a while since I've owned the later... (I own the EX1000, also the Audio Technica ESW10JPN and W1000X. As you can see, performance/price ratio is the second thing on my mind). Maybe more like 2:1 now, if you don't count super deals like HD580. But then again, I just realized HD595 is dirt cheap now, Amazon has them for $140 lol... and I got them for $250 back then.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 09:47:35
i lolz.

$400 IEM <<< $400 HD650 (TAXES FOOS).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:06:11
I would go as far to say they're skullcandy, more like KOSS.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:09:43
Koss KSC35s are SO GOOD! I need to stop being lazy and try and use the lifetime warranty for my two busted pairs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:10:45
dam i forgot they have lifetime warranty, that might exclude them being associated with Koss.

My portapros sound like poop but i kinda enjoy them when I have nothing else to listen to.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:18:03
From what I remember Portapros use the same drivers as KSC35s. It is obviously budget gear but the midrange and vocals are too good for the price. I thought they were close in performance to my Alessandro MS-1s (the midrange at least was on par, it wasn't equivalent in every way).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:26:23
i suspect u look something like this guy when wearing it

(http://academic.depauw.edu/aevans_web/UNIV197/WebPages/Fall2003/AimeePablo/Pictures/lobot2.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:43:48
the hair on my head is just a distraction from the hair on other places.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:48:56
I didn't think pubes existed in the world of OCN. I guess those 10 year olds mature faster than the rest of the world.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:53:51
we're sharing one eternity, living in two minds!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyboardlover on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:58:11
Well the members have them. The mods don't.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 10:59:29
something tells me that KL might be a communist.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyboardlover on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:00:59
Yep. A capitalist too.

Eh, comrade? ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:02:32
it is true, just make sure you don't tell them u want to mate with a polar bear KL.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:08:46
dats huge!

I almost forgot this was a headphone thread.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:13:36
Bear with me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:13:53
I need some tubes for my headphones and I need some lubes for my...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:14:26
Quote from: woody;341599
Bear with me.

 
TROLL ALeRT!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:17:41
Quote from: panda-R;341600
I need some tubes for my headphones and I need some lubes for my...
Bones.

I'd spare you the naughty version.
Quick recovery!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:24:52
old age has got the better of me, that lube is going to go a long ways.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:46:34
Quote from: ripster;341614
AH, he's a troll.

I was wondering why he told me to buy a PS/2 cable when I told him I already measured 5V off the PS/2 connector.
Hehe, you troll, you.
You said you wanted to measure current, didn't you?

Quote
Nobody reads posts on the Internet anymore.
True. It's becoming a write-only medium.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:50:18
What stops you measuring current, then?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Wed, 04 May 2011, 11:57:01
Headphone. AKG 702

(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_FoarybPaslw/SyZtBBDBf9I/AAAAAAAABGQ/fQ1sGYUYtsM/s800/image002-thumb.jpg)

There, back on topic.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 12:07:05
why is everyone so angry all da time. This is a headphone thread not an angry thread. Now show me some boobs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 12:11:57
Quote from: harrison;341640
they're angry because they're not canadian, obviously.

so you're indirectly saying they're angry because they can't marry their cousins?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 14:02:46
Someone buy my DT880/600s, I need the T1s now. Thanks.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Wed, 04 May 2011, 14:07:17
DT990s are probably my least favorite headphones I've ever used considering how much they cost. Never heard the DT880s I know they're completely different and apparently do have a midrange.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 14:09:02
Quote from: kpeezy;341687
DT990s are probably my least favorite headphones I've ever used considering how much they cost. Never heard the DT880s I know they're completely different and apparently do have a midrange.

it's relative, they have no midrange compared to my HD650s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 04 May 2011, 14:25:12
Quote from: panda-R;341686
Someone buy my DT880/600s, I need the T1s now. Thanks.

I'll trade you some keyboards for them, but that won't help you buy more cans.
Oh, I would need pics of your ears, hair and proof of overall grooming habits and good hygiene first.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 15:15:19
why does everyone assume that i am dirty, which of course i am, but still I don't think my fur has anything to do with how naughty i am.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrSneis on Wed, 04 May 2011, 15:22:12
I am really debating selling my Lcd-2's today :9
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 15:23:50
Quote from: MrSneis;341718
I am really debating selling my Lcd-2's today :9

i trade u my DT880/600s straight up for them because i know how much of a good deal i'm getting.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 04 May 2011, 15:36:59
I'll trade you a stack of keyboards for them.  Kthx.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 04 May 2011, 15:37:29
Quote from: MrSneis;341718
I am really debating selling my Lcd-2's today :9

I'll trade you a stack of keyboards for them.  Kthx.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrSneis on Wed, 04 May 2011, 16:15:14
:) may take a few extra keyboards and dt880's.  I'm really shocked to see that the LCD-2's are not near as "rare" as they were a few months ago.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrSneis on Wed, 04 May 2011, 16:16:38
Quote from: panda-R;341686
Someone buy my DT880/600s, I need the T1s now. Thanks.

Have you heard the T1's yet?  I had them for a few weeks and a few local guys listened to them with me, we agreed they weren't as great as the hype made them out to be!  Then again we were all enamored with stat's at the time.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 16:32:47
I have not heard the T1s yet but to be honest I am more interested in the LCD-2's for the darkness factor. I love the dark. I just don't like powering the dark.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrSneis on Wed, 04 May 2011, 16:37:09
My favorite dark were the old school HD-650's.  You can't really find them anymore now.  I can see how the T1's might be dark.  Try to get a used Gilmore Lite or GS-1 to pair with 'em!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Wed, 04 May 2011, 16:40:22
What stat amp are you using MrSneis?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrSneis on Wed, 04 May 2011, 16:43:44
Quote from: kpeezy;341750
What stat amp are you using MrSneis?

 
O2 + kgss.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrSneis on Wed, 04 May 2011, 16:49:37
Quote from: ripster;341754

Why a USED Gilmore Lite?  The panda-R only buys NEW.  He SELLS lots of minty threadcrapping quality stuff though.
Show Image
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4736071319_8c97d66fef_z.jpg)

 
Well Justin discontinued the GLite a while back, there's some new amp coming out soon... supposedly.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrSneis on Wed, 04 May 2011, 16:56:05
It's not collectors item until you have the Gilmore Lite LE (Black casing).  IIRC only like 15 were made.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 19:00:06
Quote from: ripster;341798
I have a big sharpie.

Brb.

we call those turtleheads in canada.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smallville on Wed, 04 May 2011, 19:27:06
Does anyone here ever trade their keyboards for headphones? I have a pair of ATH-M50 that I would trade for a MX Brown/Blue keyboard :)

But anyways, nice thread here. I was a member on Head-Fi before here. I wasted all my money on audio gear so I have no money for keyboards.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Wed, 04 May 2011, 19:54:55
Quote from: ripster;341819
It is infinitely easier to waste money at HeadFi than here.

Do they think Gold Plated USB DAC connectors sound better?

Some definitely do, sadly. Those threads are hilarious though!

MrSneis do you post on head-case?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Wed, 04 May 2011, 21:45:58
My Dr. can beat up your Dr.!
(http://i.imgur.com/3DX8M.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 23:28:11
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;341859
My Dr. can beat up your Dr.!

why doesn't he have a pen0r?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 04 May 2011, 23:29:13
Quote from: ripster;341810
Is that another stripper terminology thing you Canadians use?

lol dood nah, u know when u gotta poop and like something is peeking out, well that is ur turtlehead.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 05 May 2011, 00:02:48
those are some silly duckys.

oh man my DT880s sound so sexy today, i was rolling the opamp cuz i'm one of those opamp rollers from siberia.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WTFGoD on Fri, 06 May 2011, 04:36:50
Hi, if there is any audiofiles lurking around here would you mind throwing some knowledge at me. I was looking into some headphones but im not sure i could spend $100+ ... i was thinking of either buying a sub $50 headphone or saving for one around $100

but since there dont seem to be many good headphones around 100 even if i convinced myself to spend that much aside from the hd555(disliked by audiophiles?) a/ad700(prolly best in price range?) m50(mabe best ?)

so i was leaning towards getting something on the cheaper side... seeing if i take to fine audio then go on from there ... for the lower price range i was thinking between JVc harx700 or harx900 (900 has better pads, better sound ??) same drivers so pads prolly biggest difference..? also the Samson sr850 which is the one im thinking of getting atm

ill be using these for gaming/movies/music .. i like most music styles but prolly more rockish(alt-rock) type things . i put a heavy emphasis on comfort .. my audio experience is limited to random earbuds including my current M9's  so as i said before im looking for advice on whether to go cheaper or save up and which headphones are best in given price ranges looking for biggest bang/buck

concerns i have with the $100 price range is that there doesnt seem to be alot of value in that range... as the sound of headphones in that range seem pretty lacking (ex: bass lightness) and as im a newbie i doubt i could appreciate the mid/high differences between those 2 ranges (as newbs tend to prefer bass

as the sr850's are hiked up in price atm(highest they've been for awhile says amazon price tracker) i have some time to decide before they come back down
anyways - rant over
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Fri, 06 May 2011, 07:03:42
Get a grado sr80i . Can't be beat in the price range.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kackburt on Fri, 06 May 2011, 07:55:20
Using Sennheiser HD25 for years now, but I tried some others in this period of time (:
Mobile use: SoundMagic PL-50 in-ear's atm. (Had some Shure in-ear's too)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Twisti on Fri, 06 May 2011, 08:01:03
I have the HD428's and they are a solid headphone.  I have a big head and they still comfortable so they will fit most any head.  If you are an uber Audiophile then I'm not sure I'd recommend these but if your just looking for a solid pair of cans you might want to check them out.

Quote from: ironman31;342438
Get a grado sr80i . Can't be beat in the price range.

I was going to get these but when I'm in the office I prefer a closed ear headphone to so that my neighbors don't hear my music as well.  Just something to think about
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Fri, 06 May 2011, 10:00:44
Harrison those are pretty interesting headphones. They look like an AKG k240 knock off or some OEM version. I wonder what drivers they use.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NimbleRabit on Fri, 06 May 2011, 12:05:44
Quote from: WTFGoD;342418
Hi, if there is any audiofiles lurking around here would you mind throwing some knowledge at me. I was looking into some headphones but im not sure i could spend $100+ ... i was thinking of either buying a sub $50 headphone or saving for one around $100

but since there dont seem to be many good headphones around 100 even if i convinced myself to spend that much aside from the hd555(disliked by audiophiles?) a/ad700(prolly best in price range?) m50(mabe best ?)

so i was leaning towards getting something on the cheaper side... seeing if i take to fine audio then go on from there ... for the lower price range i was thinking between JVc harx700 or harx900 (900 has better pads, better sound ??) same drivers so pads prolly biggest difference..? also the Samson sr850 which is the one im thinking of getting atm

ill be using these for gaming/movies/music .. i like most music styles but prolly more rockish(alt-rock) type things . i put a heavy emphasis on comfort .. my audio experience is limited to random earbuds including my current M9's  so as i said before im looking for advice on whether to go cheaper or save up and which headphones are best in given price ranges looking for biggest bang/buck

concerns i have with the $100 price range is that there doesnt seem to be alot of value in that range... as the sound of headphones in that range seem pretty lacking (ex: bass lightness) and as im a newbie i doubt i could appreciate the mid/high differences between those 2 ranges (as newbs tend to prefer bass

as the sr850's are hiked up in price atm(highest they've been for awhile says amazon price tracker) i have some time to decide before they come back down
anyways - rant over

I have done extensive listening with quite a few headphones in your price range: Allesandro MS1 (modded pads), JVC RX900 (modded), AD700, ATH-M50.  It all comes down to preferences and finding what you prefer though, and honestly it's hard to figure out what would suit you best without you listening to each and finding out for yourself.  

The ad700 are what I use personally because comfort is the most important aspect to me, although I will sometimes switch to the MS1 or the RX900 when I'm wanting a different sound (I sold the M50 which were my least favorite).  They are indeed bass light and if that's not something you'd be okay with then these aren't a good choice for you.

The RX900 sound great at a fantastic price, but can get really hot on your head after long periods of listening and also don't have the most comfortable pads in the world.  I honestly think the RX900 are a good choice if you're looking to save some money and are willing to do a few mods, and I would be fine with them being my only headphones if they didn't make my head so hot sometimes.

The Allesandro's have a really fun sound, and I tend to listen to these when I just want to enjoy rocking out to my music.  Like the RX900 they aren't the most comfortable headphones in the world though and so I always end up going back to my ad700 after a few hours.

I'm probably going to end up getting some dt880's at some point in the future in the hopes that I can find a headphone that is close to perfect for me, and right now I feel a bit silly switching between 3 different pairs of headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WTFGoD on Fri, 06 May 2011, 13:01:36
you guys are mean trying to confuse me like this :P

i guess ill check out the superlux too
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Fri, 06 May 2011, 17:20:35
HD650 FTW! I really like my HD650s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: krull on Sat, 07 May 2011, 13:50:27
Quote from: ripster;342481
My bose cracked in half after about 3 years.

Bose Blows.

I wish mine lasted as long. I only got about 6 months worth of use out of them. Before they snapped right above the right ear cup.
They sounded pretty good but the build quality was just terrible.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Brummell on Sat, 07 May 2011, 16:47:31
At the risk of turning this into a headphone thread, HD 595s are $119.99 at Amazon again.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 07 May 2011, 17:11:37
Lucky for me I've already tried them for cheaper. Safe to say the HD650s are not on the chopping block.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Sat, 07 May 2011, 18:03:46
Blow-out sale, certainly. Would be interesting to know which variant you get. Knowing Amazon, they tend to hoarde things, so there is a non-zero chance of getting "bass-light" 50 ohm samples instead of the newer "normal bass" ones.

Those Superlux cans are pretty good apparently, it seems - the (semi-)open ones at least. The stock earpads used to be really lousy plastic jobs, but seem to have been upgraded to something a little more passable now. Thankfully they'll take K240 style pads, of which both kinds seem to be an improvement.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Brummell on Sat, 07 May 2011, 18:37:50
They're not my first choice either, but I'm buying them for my work office where they should be fine.  I have a pair of 650s here that I wouldn't trade 595s for either, but I do think the 595s are decent enough cans for that price.  I don't want anything too good at the office.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Sat, 07 May 2011, 19:00:52
You can always buy the cheaper 555s and mod them to 595s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvQ8PzBrHXE) or buy the AD700s if your into open headphones but then you'd probably get strange looks from everyone.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sat, 07 May 2011, 20:39:40
Amazon sent me the 50ohm version a few months ago. I bought the HD650s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Sun, 08 May 2011, 15:15:52
AD700s should be a touch on the lean side, but not bad cans otherwise. If you feel the pads are too thin, look up "phatpads" mods.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Sun, 08 May 2011, 15:36:39
I LOVE HEaDPHONES
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WTFGoD on Mon, 09 May 2011, 04:42:54
checked out the superluxes i think im gonna pickup either the 668's or the samsons when they come back down in price apparently they are almost the same thing so ill just get whichever i can pick up cheaper, prolly the samsons unless i can find a place to get the luxes(only place ive seen is ebay for over 60)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 09:37:58
wheres a good place to learn this dubstepping?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WTFGoD on Mon, 09 May 2011, 10:22:48
Quote from: harrison;343733
Which Samsons are you considering?

I found the SR850 (http://www.amazon.com/SR850-Professional-Studio-Reference-Headphones/dp/B002LBSEQS/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1304948434&sr=8-8), which look to be about the same price point.  The Superlux HD 681 (http://www.amazon.com/Superlux-681-Dynamic-Semi-Open-Headphones/dp/B002GHIPYI/ref=sr_1_cc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1304948550&sr=1-1-catcorr) is a more direct competitor to that phone, at a much better price point.  The sound is similar to the 668's when modded (do some searching at HeadFi).


On further inspection: it looks like they're both made by the same company (http://rockgrotto.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=review&action=display&thread=5788)!

 

exactly.. but they all have different drivers and apparently the sr850 sounds alot more like the 668 then the 681 (better) so for the extra 10 bucks i fuigre it would be worth it as the 668 is supposed to sound a fair bit better then the 681's

only difference between the samson and the 668 is that the samson is a lower ohm? or something 30something compared to the 688's 56 or so? which means ?? its easier to drive?? no idea :smow:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 10:30:52
i've decided to get dis amp for my next foray into the world of headphones

(http://cdn.head-fi.org/7/7e/1000x500px-LL-7eab84a3_IMG_2361.JPG)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 10:55:29
i think those are tube converters, it allows you to use other types of lightsabers.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Mon, 09 May 2011, 11:29:09
So you get a free tan while listening? Useful.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 12:25:48
ripster u got some interesting fetish porn, now deliver the SAUCE!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 12:43:20
I like these cross cultural exchanges. Our cultures are so different.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:06:24
I don't mean to burst your tubes, but I do have a headphone question.  DT770's, still worth it at $350?  I could get custom colors and some nice leather on them straight from beyer, but audio is really about audio (and the size of your tubes).  Since they are available for much less in plain silver, would I be better off picking something else in that price range?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:09:04
Quote from: pfink;338197
Koss has a lifetime warranty, you might be able to swing a free replacement for the Porta Pros.

 Heh. They're cheap enough that it is probably easier to just order another pair.

I like the HD595's so far. I can't really tell any difference compared to my old Porta-Pros, but they're comfy. $140 is not a lot to spend on something you use every day.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:19:40
Quote from: ripster;343993
I'd see if I liked the sound first by trying the standard model first.  You'll be getting another someday anyway and can upgrade then.  Like shiny spacebars these things don't last forever.

That is a good point. Plus, it would leave me some cash for this:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31F2UHtYWfL.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:21:52
get some TUBES! The Asgard only looks nice IMO.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:24:49
there are tubes in Valhalla.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:27:33
hey thats me in the middle!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:28:37
I hear da valhalla is alright. It would be the only SCHIT amp i'd be interested in trying. HOWEVERS my love for the cheapness amps from China will make that almost impossible.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:36:45
If there aren't any tubes in it, then I'm not interested, unless it just LOOKS good. =).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Mon, 09 May 2011, 16:59:38
/wonders why people are so obsessed with dem toobs.

Looks? OK, that I can understand, but usually circuits with vacuum tubes mean higher cost, higher power consumption and worse measurements.

Which is not to say that you couldn't get all solid state gear that is incredibly overbuilt yet doesn't really work all too well (the audio-gd amps come to mind; apparently this is not uncommon with Chinese audiophile gear in general, see e.g. HiSound MP3 players).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 17:19:04
I just look for whatever makes my high impedance cans go BOOM BOOM. If tubes can make it more BOOM BOOM than my lehmann black cube linear clone then imma all for it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Mon, 09 May 2011, 18:08:36
I wonder if audiophiles(seriously, you have to be damaged to pick that description for yourself) also practice voodoo, astrology and alchemy.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Mon, 09 May 2011, 18:13:44
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;344055
I wonder if audiophiles(seriously, you have to be damaged to pick that description for yourself) also practice voodoo, astrology and alchemy.

 
I wish MW were here.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SgCbuAVsmS8/TBvNLTZbN5I/AAAAAAAACYM/nGEfgZXQUx0/s1600/IE+6+troll+(internet+explorer,+browser,+trollface).png)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 21:23:49
i love tube amps and i never get laid.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 21:36:04
Quote from: ripster;344132
This is why Pandas face extinction.

Now your typical tube puts out 4K to 8K output impedence.  So matching to your headphones is just not a natural act.

how does dat work for my 600ohm super cans?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 21:57:56
u make canadians angry!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Mon, 09 May 2011, 22:01:48
No worries then, they are bad at fighting.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 22:03:06
Im going to eat some cake
whos with me!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 09 May 2011, 22:22:07
I JUST ATE THE CAKE. It was delicious.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Mon, 09 May 2011, 22:27:26
Do you have twitter? That would make our lives so much easier!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NimbleRabit on Mon, 09 May 2011, 22:30:34
I just recently finished modding my MS1's and turned them into "MS1000" (http://www.head-fi.org/forum/thread/323271/alessandro-ms1000-and-ms-ultimate-diy-modding-56k-warning).  Hopefully I like it because I was lazy and used some pretty permanent glue.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 10 May 2011, 11:31:57
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;344173
Do you have twitter? That would make our lives so much easier!

harharhar, twitter doesn't increase my post count!

GET TO DA CHOPPA!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Tue, 10 May 2011, 13:55:23
tube amps don't interest me at all
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 10 May 2011, 14:45:39
Quote from: phillip;344536
tube amps don't interest me at all

obviously because u don't want to get laid.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Tue, 10 May 2011, 15:29:28
Quote from: panda-R;344553
obviously because u don't want to get laid.

no u

solid state for life
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Tue, 10 May 2011, 15:59:16
Better than a gaseous female.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 10 May 2011, 17:21:25
neener neener neener, i can see your weiner.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Tue, 10 May 2011, 21:35:01
Ok, so I'm going to Utah in 1.5 wks.. what is it I need to know about headphones again?   I was looking at Beyer DT770s... Needs to be closed, needs to be comfy like a cloud of boobs.

Let me be more specific... the 80 ohm model.  Too bad the 250ohm version looks nicer.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 10 May 2011, 22:37:44
get the 600ohm, it's moar awesome.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Tue, 10 May 2011, 22:41:04
I just don't want to dump my load on an amp.  There are limits to how deep my pockets go.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 10 May 2011, 22:55:22
man just make bigger and deeper pockets, thats how u solve dat problem!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 11 May 2011, 08:40:12
Quote from: harrison;344889
you can pick up a cheap chip amp off fleaBay for under $50 for iPod use.  search for cmoy.

I don't know enough about parts of amps... I don't do batteries, so would I also need to get a regulated supply or would a 9v wart suffice?   Is any random cmoy going to be able to push a 600ohm set of cans?

And WTF is up with Beyer shutting down their site on the day I want to do more research?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 11 May 2011, 09:42:39
Quote from: ripster;344645
Utah women are HAWT.

I have to agree.

I wish I could afford big tube amps for home audio but I've stuck to big solid state so far.
Denon POA-2400 that is probably related to Kit from Knight Rider
(http://www.audioscope.net/images/denonpoa2400.jpg)

Wish I had the coin for a pair of these tube monoblocks (http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstube&1310096758) .... 282lbs to ship!
(http://pic3.audiogon.com/i/c/f/1304912723.jpg)

Oh wait, we're talking HEADamps.  The FIIO E7 I have is decent for a portable with Denon AHD-2000's but I'd like to try something higher end.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mazora on Wed, 11 May 2011, 11:03:59
Anyone could recommend a great (for the buck) external PC Audio card ?
Also, I would be looking for a great (bang for the $) desktop audio amp.

I'm looking for a kinda-easy solution since I'm a total noob on the matter (wish to learn though).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 11 May 2011, 11:13:34
MATRIX MINI-I HAZaM!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Wed, 11 May 2011, 11:15:36
Quote from: didjamatic;344925
I have to agree.

I wish I could afford big tube amps for home audio but I've stuck to big solid state so far.
Denon POA-2400 that is probably related to Kit from Knight Rider
http://www.audioscope.net/images/denonpoa2400.jpg

Wish I had the coin for a pair of these tube monoblocks (http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstube&1310096758) .... 282lbs to ship!
http://pic3.audiogon.com/i/c/f/1304912723.jpg

Oh wait, we're talking HEADamps.  The FIIO E7 I have is decent for a portable with Denon AHD-2000's but I'd like to try something higher end.

 
I have a POA-2400A :)

(http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/481/amp1s.png)
(http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/5563/amp2.png)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Wed, 11 May 2011, 11:26:40
Quote from: Mazora;344959
Anyone could recommend a great (for the buck) external PC Audio card ?
Also, I would be looking for a great (bang for the $) desktop audio amp.

I'm looking for a kinda-easy solution since I'm a total noob on the matter (wish to learn though).

I don't know about external audio cards, but I am also in the market for a decent desktop amp.  I have a couple pairs of headphones and headsets, so I would like the amp to feed into a DAC with at least two outputs.  Does anyone have a recommendation for a multi-output DAC that won't hinder an amp?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 11 May 2011, 11:29:31
Quote from: phillip;344967
I have a POA-2400A :)

I don't know if mine is an A or not, but it's a Denon 2400.  I love Denon POA amps and hope to find 1-2 more 2400's so I can tri-amp my KEF Reference 203's with 660W per side :)

I also have a Denon POA1500 and love it's big VU meters
(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u46/pleasurepaul/0a54_3.jpg)

I recently sold this Carver M500T to a guy who was going to use 2 of them as bridged 700W monoblocks.

Phillip, you should trade me your 2400 for a bunch of keyboards.  I'd hook you up big time.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Wed, 11 May 2011, 11:48:42
Quote from: didjamatic;344972
I don't know if mine is an A or not, but it's a Denon 2400.  I love Denon POA amps and hope to find 1-2 more 2400's so I can tri-amp my KEF Reference 203's with 660W per side :)

I also have a Denon POA1500 and love it's big VU meters
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u46/pleasurepaul/0a54_3.jpg

I recently sold this Carver M500T to a guy who was going to use 2 of them as bridged 700W monoblocks.

Phillip, you should trade me your 2400 for a bunch of keyboards.  I'd hook you up big time.

I think I'll keep it :)  Those VU meters look pretty nifty - I like the look of vintage equipment.

I dunno what the difference is between the 2400 and 2400A, but it's probably miniscule.  KEF Reference speakers are very nice, too.

You should just check ebay and audiogon often for the POA series amps though.  There are a couple on ebay right now (not 2400s).  This listing ended recently for a pair of 6600s:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Rare-Denon-POA-6600-Monoblocks-Excellent-Condition-/300553695334?pt=Vintage_Electronics_R2&hash=item45fa657066
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 11 May 2011, 12:24:48
SO what is this dusty Denon that you speak of Ripster?

When I get the DIY amp bug and feel safe enough to not kill myself I was going to look into Bottlehead kits but those gainclones look interesting.

Phillip, I've been debating between going for another 2200/2400/2800 (basically all the same) or an Emotiva or finding a pair of those Denon 6600 Monoblocks.  I have read though you don't want the 6600A's.  Not sure if they are bad or just not as good as the original 6600's that I think were designed by Nelson Pass.  I hear he has a silver plated OFC unix beard.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Wed, 11 May 2011, 12:45:25
Emotiva would definitely be a good choice.  I would also look for some used ATI amps.

I assume the guy who ran that ebay listing for the 6600s is the same as this guy who just put them on audiogon:
http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1309391249&/Denon-POA-6600A-Monoblocks

He says this about the "A" version:
Quote
On these "A" models, Denon used something they called Optical Class A, their version of a sliding bias control via optical link, for reduced crossover distortion.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mazora on Wed, 11 May 2011, 12:56:50
Ok I get it, this thread is not for Canadia Audio noobs like me. I guess I'll have to go and read for a whole month every thread at headfi
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 11 May 2011, 13:20:25
I don't understand anything you old timers talk about. I wasn't even born when they invented the solid state amps.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 11 May 2011, 19:53:43
I hate you people. I haven't finished hacking the crap out of my Filco yet and I'm already looking at building my own DAC and Amp... this is just ridiculous.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Wed, 11 May 2011, 19:56:36
What's a DAC and should i get one?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 11 May 2011, 19:59:55
I looked at HeadFi once for five minutes.  Took me several hours to find all the pieces after my head exploded.  

http://www.amb.org/audio/gamma1/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 11 May 2011, 20:00:08
Quote from: panda-R;345159
What's a DAC and should i get one?

Makes computer sound better, and yes.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 11 May 2011, 20:01:40
My computer sounds fine.  Super quiet fans, dampened case... I'm very happy with how my computer sounds.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 11 May 2011, 20:36:47
Quote from: alaricljs;345163
My computer sounds fine.  Super quiet fans, dampened case... I'm very happy with how my computer sounds.

But the DAC will add sounds you never imagined would be there.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 11 May 2011, 20:40:17
It was hard enough getting rid of the sounds I imagined wouldn't be there... Maybe I should get noise cancelling headphones?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 11 May 2011, 20:41:57
Quote from: alaricljs;345172
It was hard enough getting rid of the sounds I imagined wouldn't be there... Maybe I should get noise cancelling headphones?

You definitely shouldn't do that
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 12 May 2011, 00:07:02
GUYS I HAVE A PROBLEM. I have these headphones called Beyerdynamic DT880's and they like don't sound good out of the headphone socket on my computer, What should I do?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 12 May 2011, 00:11:51
Quote from: harrison;345230
put them in a box and ship them to me.

address?

and would i need to insure them?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 12 May 2011, 00:17:26
Here's your tracking #: PA888NDA888R123ABC
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: khanable on Thu, 12 May 2011, 00:25:26
(http://www.khanable.com/headphones.JPG)


Love my grados :)

lil bit modified..
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 12 May 2011, 00:31:46
i like her glasses, I bet she studies physics.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 12 May 2011, 00:47:11
i dun get it!~
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 12 May 2011, 01:11:57
lulz, i such a dummie for a panda.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: strum4h on Thu, 12 May 2011, 01:19:53
Anyone have stax akg k1000 or any other electrostatic earphones?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Thu, 12 May 2011, 01:29:15
NOPE, those are too awesome.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WTFGoD on Sun, 15 May 2011, 13:45:25
does this place look legit?  (http://www.greenflymusicsupply.com/store/Superlux-by-Avlex-HD668B-Enhanced-Bass-Stereo-Headphones-p4076.html)


seems alittle too cheap?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WTFGoD on Sun, 15 May 2011, 13:55:24
lol but instills no faith
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Sun, 15 May 2011, 18:26:02
I trust no site that offers me money for no work involved AND wants to sell me stuff.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Mon, 16 May 2011, 16:13:33
I hear the Sabre chips in the Peachtree Audio products come close to the quality of that DAC-1.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Mon, 16 May 2011, 17:35:53
ripster my homieboy, u lust after gold plated RCAs? U should get the solid copper RCAs because they're solid.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Slarg on Tue, 17 May 2011, 02:45:04
Personally I have a HD555 plugged into a Asus Xonar D2X through a Grado adapter. Pretty sweet ;D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Tue, 17 May 2011, 05:28:18
Ripster, why don't just slap external coaxial or optical S/PDIF DAC and be done with it? Your motherboard must have one such output most probably. In the worst case, it will have S/PDIF header somewhere, and you'll need (few dollar) S/PDIF Out bracket like this:

(http://reset.bg/images/products/h0-product1109003.jpeg)

These high-price PC "sound cards" are a fad. One well going, it seems.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Tue, 17 May 2011, 05:41:25
Quote from: ripster;347382
OK, getting pissed now.  7.1 analog on a Asus Xonar Essence is a joke without the H6.  And the H6 is like a Unicomp Mini as far as I can tell.

When you mean 7.1 analog do you mean the headphone trick using windows, dolby, and speaker separation. Or do you mean an actual 7.1 speaker setup?

Quote from: woody;347440
Ripster, why don't just slap external coaxial or optical S/PDIF DAC and be done with it? Your motherboard must have one such output most probably. In the worst case, it will have S/PDIF header somewhere, and you'll need (few dollar) S/PDIF Out bracket like this:

Because the sound card has support for the H6 daughterboard and it be a waste of money to install a optical out bracket using the motherboard onboard as source rather than the soundcard.

Quote from: woody;347440
These high-price PC "sound cards" are a fad. One well going, it seems.

Since when are soundcards a "fad"? Soundcards have been around for years and years. Why relegate yourself to onboard audio when you can enhance something that is as important as the graphics properties of computer. Sound is very good for games, movies, and music.

In some cases in particular to the xonar ST/X a lot of people will recommend them over external equipment especially at the price range, sure external can be better but considering many don't want to spend a fortune a sound card can be a good bang-for-buck sound equipment.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: panda-R on Tue, 17 May 2011, 09:30:56
sorry ripster my homie, i don't read. I like solid copper RCAs because they're solid and costs me $12 bux for the set.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Tue, 17 May 2011, 10:38:01
Quote from: ripster;347494
Anyone running M-audio cards  with a 7.1 analog setup?

I did briefly.  Still have the card.  Drivers sucked and with the rest of my pathetic system there was no difference between it and the mobo analog to my ears.  Then again I don't know if my ears are just ****e since I don't have anything good to check with.  The analog out on my main PC is horrific for headphones, too much hiss and extra computer noise (mouse movement, video blitting) so I use a Plantronics USB DAC.   I'm slowly working on upgrading all of this.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Tue, 17 May 2011, 11:37:40
Quote from: ripster;347342
Oh damn.  A Onkyo 7.1 soundcard (http://en.akihabaranews.com/90573/audio-systems/onkyo-releases-a-new-wavio-audio-card-powered-by-creatives-x-fi-technology).  $400.
Show Image
(http://www.akihabaranews.com/wp-content/uploads//images/3/73/90573/1.jpg)

MOAR Capacitance please!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Tue, 17 May 2011, 13:44:39
Quote from: ripster;347494
DAC seems to only make sense if I plan on doing a lot of headphone listening.
With digital music a DAC is always present somewhere. But why would you have it in an overpriced card in a noisy computer, when you have almost free digital output on the mobo nowadays and can have nice DAC/preamp conveniently outside?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: woody on Tue, 17 May 2011, 13:57:17
Dunno about 7.1, not my area. There's the myriad of Dolby acronyms I refuse to learn about. And some cheap USB DACs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ricercar on Tue, 17 May 2011, 20:39:06
Windows 7 recognizes my Kennsington laptop dock as 7.1, but has only 5.0 analog out. Would it be of any value to open this up and give you a chip number?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Wed, 18 May 2011, 11:34:21
(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71NOLAZPnVL._SX300_CR0,0,300,257_CR0,0,0,0_.png)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 18 May 2011, 13:42:39
Does that have a USB input?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Thu, 19 May 2011, 11:22:54
This one gets the most eggs, but for only 24 bucks, it hardly seems hifi worthy.
(http://images17.newegg.com/is/image/newegg/29-180-006-Z02?$S300W$)

They swear that it is 7.1.... (the two mic ports are on the back).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pitashen on Thu, 19 May 2011, 12:21:05
Quote from: panda-R;345159
What's a DAC and should i get one?

 
DAC -> Digital to Analog Converter. It basically exists in all the pc sound cards of any kind. So in a sense you already own a DAC of some sort. The quality of DAC determines the quality of analog output (i.e. sound quality). Therefore the quality of the DAC in a sound card is actually more important than anything else on it. Well of course there is also the amplifier that affects the quality...

So in the end, you can have whatever powerful digital processing chip on the sound card and still get ****ty sound if DAC is ****ty.

Usually if someone is hardcore about it, they would use the optical out connecting to a high quality DAC and then to an amplifier that drives the speaker system or a headphone.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Thu, 19 May 2011, 12:39:23
But, is it really worth ~$1500?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pitashen on Thu, 19 May 2011, 12:43:09
I wouldn't go to that category unless I have a whole library of lossless collections, as well as a high end amp + high end speakers to match it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pitashen on Thu, 19 May 2011, 12:47:55
Quote from: pitashen;348565
I wouldn't go to that category unless I have a whole library of lossless collections, as well as a high end amp + high end speakers to match it.

With that money, I would rather get a pair of nice studio monitors for about $300~400 , an decent DAC for about $200, and a decent amp for another $200. Given that I only listen to mp3s,youtube, hulu and occasionally some not so high quality movie files.  Guess thats not even 1k!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 19 May 2011, 13:48:23
I have my small collection ripped to FLAC... it's 227GB.  Best listening device in my house so far, Sony MDR-NC50's  :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pitashen on Thu, 19 May 2011, 14:05:23
http://www.audiotrak.net/products/prodigy71hifi/

http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/Delta1010LT.html


I use none of them but i guess they are worth looking into
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 19 May 2011, 14:15:16
avsforum would be a good place to look if somehow you didn't already know about it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pitashen on Thu, 19 May 2011, 15:43:22
x-fi Forte?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NimbleRabit on Thu, 19 May 2011, 18:49:11
Quote from: ripster;348608
Hmm... nobody has a 7.1 sound card they use personally and recommend?  Something OTHER than Creative please.

Somebody post this question at HeadFi.

No.  Who in gods name uses 7.1 on their PC these days?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Arc'xer on Thu, 19 May 2011, 21:50:41
Quote from: NimbleRabit;348731
No.  Who in gods name uses 7.1 on their PC these days?


Are you serious or trolling?

Many use 5.1/7.1. Sure stereo is more convenient for space(5.1/7.1 emulation) but there's quite a lot of multi-channel users out there.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Fri, 20 May 2011, 12:18:28
Sorry, on-topic post.
I needed portable closed on-ear headphones with low impedance and good bass, so I got the HD25's(the Adidas edition, because it looks ****ing awesome).

Pretty good stuff, recommended.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Fri, 20 May 2011, 12:33:04
For gaming purposes I use the PC161. Thought about buying a HMD25, but then I would need to mod the connectors and get an XLR->USB mic amp.

Meh. Convenience wins.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Fri, 20 May 2011, 13:46:04
HaveANiceDay, were they the HD 25-1 II or the SP? I loved the 25-1 IIs (confusing naming scheme ftl). Get a standalone mic and use them for gaming!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Fri, 20 May 2011, 14:07:39
Those with the split headband, so the 25-1 II. Thought about modding them with a mic, but I'd need to get an extra pair as these are only for my listening needs.
Yesterday an ebay auction ended with the HMD 25's for the price of regular HD, it was a good deal but I'm feeling too lazy to mod anything right now.

Here's a pic I stole from here (http://www.pocket-lint.com/review/5254/sennheiser-adidas-hd-25-1-ii-headphones-review)
(http://i.imgur.com/91il5.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 20 May 2011, 15:31:39
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;349067
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/91il5.jpg)

he - I read all the reviews and listened to the experts and compared specifications before I made my decision.

she - Which headphones did you get?

he - The blue ones!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Fri, 20 May 2011, 16:12:43
Research is important. Then you go to the store and try the candidates. Then you buy the pretty version of the winner!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Fri, 20 May 2011, 17:22:40
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;349125
Research is important. Then you go to the store and try the candidates. Then you buy the pretty version of the winner!

Yes, but its that trying part that is hard.  Headphones are almost as bad as mechanical keyboards.  You might have to travel to try some.

Portland OR, has a wonderful store called 32ohm audio.  They even have hi end senheiser and beyer that you can pick up and listen to.  Some hifi audio places have similar offerings, but wide selections seem to be rare.  I hope other cities are as lucky as I am here.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Fri, 20 May 2011, 17:26:09
Quote from: ripster;349171
What if the GF wears pink Nikes?
Show Image
(http://static.igossip.com/photos_2/may_2011/christina_ricci.jpg)

Then she needs to stop wearing my shoes god dammit!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: doublethink on Fri, 20 May 2011, 19:48:35
hd280 pro 64ohm + asus xonar + belkin volume knob.

goodbye krackle creative.   ill deal with software volume if i get proper impedance matching. :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ficklampa on Thu, 26 May 2011, 05:51:57
I have some headphones here and there, seems like I mostly get those from Germany for some reason...

Sennheiser HD555, not modded since I didn't know about the mod since like yesterday. Using these for my gaming desktop, with a Zalman MIC-1 microphone, second pair.
Beyerdynamic DT250 some wiring problem I think, sound crackles sometimes so I hardly use them any more.
AKG K26p somewhat used for my iphone
Grado SR80 + MIC-1 connected with a Griffin iMic (I think it's called) to my macbook
Plantronics X95 for xbox 360

The HD555 goes through an X-can V2 (with X-psu) headphone amp to my Asus Xonar-soundcard.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: guilleguillaume on Thu, 26 May 2011, 09:43:19
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;349067
Those with the split headband, so the 25-1 II. Thought about modding them with a mic, but I'd need to get an extra pair as these are only for my listening needs.
Yesterday an ebay auction ended with the HMD 25's for the price of regular HD, it was a good deal but I'm feeling too lazy to mod anything right now.

Here's a pic I stole from

I have a pair of those and I got them for only 160€ Brand new,
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 31 May 2011, 22:31:38
They could at least learn proper English...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ficklampa on Wed, 01 June 2011, 20:27:19
So... I did the 595-mod. I like it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ficklampa on Wed, 01 June 2011, 20:37:23
555 -> 595 mod that is.
Running them on the old X-can 2. Tubes ftw.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: curzen on Fri, 03 June 2011, 13:03:46
Had the Sony MDR V6 delivered about an hour ago. I'd say they are pretty awesome, despite no 5000 hour break in yet to hear the echo of the big bang in my audiophile cables made from spun elementium by 40 year old virgins. yeah. headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Fri, 03 June 2011, 13:06:35
I finally got around to replacing my HT subwoofer.  Ordered an Outlaw Audio LFM-1 EX last night, and I can't wait for it to get here :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Fri, 03 June 2011, 13:27:15
Yeah, I really wanted a Rythmik FV15/FV15HP but they were out of my price range...I'd actually be more than happy with any of the Rythmik options, since they would certainly be much better than my previous subwoofer (JBL Venue SUB12).  I'd also have to pay tax on a Rythmik since they're based in Austin :(

The subs I was really looking at:
HSU VTF-2.3
HSU VTF-3.3
Outlaw LFM-1 Plus
Outlaw LFM-EX
Elemental Designs A3-300
Epik Legend

Basically a bunch of subs in the $600-700 range.  Outlaw started a sale on their subs yesterday that was 15% off and free shipping...so instead of paying $739 shipped for the LFM-1 EX, I got it for $552 :D

I'd like to get an Emotiva Ultra Sub 12 for my computer system too, but I can't afford that right now.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ricercar on Sat, 04 June 2011, 21:42:53
Quote from: curzen;355250
Had the Sony MDR V6

These are the buckling spring of headphones. They last and last and won't die even long after we discover something better. Mine are 24 years old and still deliver. Not many phone models on the market a quarter century, let alone lasting that long.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: curzen on Sat, 04 June 2011, 23:10:34
Quote from: ricercar;355725
These are the buckling spring of headphones. They last and last and won't die even long after we discover something better. Mine are 24 years old and still deliver. Not many phone models on the market a quarter century, let alone lasting that long.

Koss has a bunch of near ancient models still for sale, I just can't bring myself to like them. too bulky. And unless I'm mistaken they have fiunally ceased production of the Pro4aa's.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sinis on Sun, 05 June 2011, 21:13:49
here: AKG k530, an 50ohm, affordable, so i could get a soundcard with headphone-amp. Had a sennheiser for more than 5 years - it was some hd 4xx I think, cant f$%&in find it on the web. It broke something like 18 month ago. god, i loved it. rip
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ficklampa on Tue, 07 June 2011, 12:58:45
I tried a pair of Koss Porta Pro. Almost killed myself.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Tue, 07 June 2011, 13:12:29
That data is almost 10 years old. Bit long in the tooth if you ask me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Tue, 07 June 2011, 13:26:01
sub arrived today :)
(http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/1189/outlaw1.jpg)

I would like to rearrange my room to make it fit better, but I need to be getting back to work :(
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Tue, 07 June 2011, 14:07:15
Yeah, I really like the look of the speaker drivers.

It's actually not a gloss finish on the sub - it's got an inlaid plexiglass top, which is fairly unique.  Unfortunately some of the glue wasn't fully set (or whatever) so it separated a little.  I pushed it down, but it's not perfectly smooth.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Tue, 07 June 2011, 14:51:34
I just called and spoke to Scott about my sub's imperfections - very nice and helpful.  Unfortunately they can't replace just the plexiglass top, but they offered to replace the sub without me having any downtime.  They'll send me a prepaid shipping label in the mail along with a new sub, and I can just mail the old one back whenever I receive the new sub.  He also offered me a discount but I need to send him detailed photos first to see how much they'd offer me.  Either solution works for me though...I like customer service like that :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: curzen on Tue, 07 June 2011, 17:18:15
it would be finlandians leading the suicide charts if not for all the booze
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 07 June 2011, 17:22:11
I'll post more pictures in this (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?18601-New-headphone-rig) thread

(http://img691.imageshack.us/img691/1341/img4310wa.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ethics- on Tue, 14 June 2011, 19:02:44
I recently lost my Klipsch S4i earbuds that I use with my phone. I loved the sound isolation and the boomy bass on them. Any suggestions on my next pair of headphones? I've looked into Ety mc3s, but people said that the bass might be a bit disappointing if Im coming from the Klipsch.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ethics- on Tue, 14 June 2011, 19:12:32
I have a pair of Sennheiser 555s that I have at home. Earbuds are for commuting, librarying, etc.

Out of curiosity, have you heard about the 555s being equivalent to the 595s once you remove a piece of dampening foam?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ethics- on Tue, 14 June 2011, 20:43:51
Ah, I guess if I would have read the last two pages, I would have discovered that the mod was already mentioned :|
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ethics- on Tue, 14 June 2011, 21:58:03
Nope.  But I did look at some banana holders after seeing some users here with them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ficklampa on Sat, 18 June 2011, 07:13:59
@ripster many people see to be complaining about Sennheisers buds. Seem to be bad quality and not so good audio performance compared to other brands... :/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: posthaste on Sat, 18 June 2011, 08:43:49
Ripster, why did you select the 8 gigabyte Sony Walkman over the 16GB version?  

I'm thinking of buying one and am curious if there's something I should know.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyboardlover on Sat, 18 June 2011, 08:46:57
Quote from: ripster;362841
However I've had good luck with Sennys in the past and doubt it's a manufacturing issue just like the Filco ping issue has been proven to not be a manufacturing issue.

 
I've yet to see conclusive evidence that the Filco issue is not a manufacturing issue. It is definitely a QA issue as some boards do it while others don't, and we've found that putting foam inside the case helps. Which means that not all the keyboards are getting put together quite properly. Which...is...a...manufacturing...issue.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Sat, 18 June 2011, 09:17:09
These headphones has the best and most rich sound I ever heard:

Sennheiser HD 800
(http://media.headphone.com/productphotos/large/0020080800_3759.jpg)

If you are looking for a really good amp, this is it:

HeadRoom Balanced Ultra Desktop Amp (BUDA)
(http://media.headphone.com/productphotos/small/0000012550_3891.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Sat, 18 June 2011, 09:29:41
Quote from: ripster;362867
$1500 seems a bit high.

 
I believe even though the HD800 is very expensive, I will still recommend it to others
because I believe that what you pay is what you get and it is certainly like no other headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Sat, 18 June 2011, 09:40:43
HD800 it's like a Porsche for your ears! German engineering at it's finest!

The HD800 is hand-assembled in the Sennheiser global headquarters in Germany using only the finest, most luxurious materials.
In fact, even just checking out the stainless steel earpieces of the HD800 is enough to display the highest standard of engineering
design that went into the production of it. Aside from the stainless steel earpieces, the HD800 also has a stainless steel mesh and
earpad cushions made from a special micro-fiber from the luxury car industry.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Sat, 18 June 2011, 10:23:39
Quote from: ripster;362876
That does it.

I'm typing up my Braun German Engineering thread as we speak.

For sure you bought a series 7, do you ? ;)

I'd recommend this ...
(http://www.scharferladen.de/shop/images/9900-rasiermesser-pfalume.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Sat, 18 June 2011, 11:13:12
I've never heard the hd800s, but my frien who's up in portland listened to them at 32 ohm audio and sai he enjoyed the lcd2s much more, although the highs aparently are more pronounced in the hd 800
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Sat, 18 June 2011, 11:32:33
Quote from: ripster;362919
And they are american made.

(http://cms.whathifi.com/Images/137570fe9bli.jpg)


 (http://www.whathifi.com/blog/sennheiser-hd800-hands-on-preview-plus-how-the-163-1000-headphones-are-built)
Quote
How are headphones made?
All Sennheiser HD800 headphones are hand-made at the Hannover production facility. In theory, they could make 5000 pairs a year, but manufacturing capacity is flexible to meet demand.
If all components are to hand, it takes around 45 minutes for a series of skilled workers to assemble a pair of HD800s – after which each set of Sennheisers is tested (of which more later).
Click for more info
[/URL]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Sat, 18 June 2011, 11:38:12
I kinda don't like pre-assembly line production methods in this day and age for something as mechanically simple as Headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Sat, 18 June 2011, 11:56:31
Quote from: ripster;362941
I was talking about the LCD2s being american made.
Ok , get it.

(http://sixmoons.com/audioreviews/audeze/2.jpg)
Looks nice and it costs only ~ 660€. It COULD be the Leopold of headphones ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Sat, 18 June 2011, 17:51:33
I always thought LCD-2s were closed but Tyll Hertsens lists their measurements in the circumaural open category. And having taken his pair apart, he ought to know. Go figure.

These orthos are doing pretty well in measurements actually, particularly low-frequency distortion (regardless of whether it's the LCD-2 or one of the Hifiman units). Conventional open cans can't touch them in that regard. Their impedance response is pretty much ruler-flat, too. They are, however, quite inefficient. LCD-2s already are the least critical of the bunch, so I'd trust even a rather inexpensive amp like the FiiO E9 to drive them fairly well. Still, any old Cmoy can drive a HD800.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Sat, 18 June 2011, 18:18:38
I find the LCD-2 to be well driven by relatively weaker amps. My ibasso d10 cobra with the gain drove them past my listen volume.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Sat, 18 June 2011, 18:40:27
This IS the Optimus Maximus of headphones ...
(http://zapp2.staticworld.net/news/graphics/162869-HE90_orpheus_575.jpg) (http://www.stereophile.com/headphones/sennheiser_orpheus_he_90_headphones/index.html)
This thing is really expensive - and no longer available !!! Need mo money :(
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Sat, 18 June 2011, 18:47:28
I always say: If it looks too fancy, it probably is.
Also, being the Optimus Maximus of headphones is not really a compliment.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Sat, 18 June 2011, 19:04:00
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;363100
I always say: If it looks too fancy, it probably is.
It's too much expensive for me to afford :( The price for a HE 90+HEV 90 was $12,900 (in 1995!)
But i think if looks and sound quality could kill, this system would be deadly.

Quote from: HaveANiceDay;363100
Also, being the Optimus Maximus of headphones is not really a compliment.
Yepp, right. But finally i didn't mean it like that. Better: It is the Optimus Maximus of headphones because of the price.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Sat, 18 June 2011, 19:14:18
The heat from those tubes may indeed be lethal.
I don't like "warm" sounding electronic music. Good for a guitar amp, I guess.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Backward_Pawn on Sun, 19 June 2011, 00:06:10
I use AD700 plugged into an X-Fi Ti HD.  I want to eventually get an amp and a pair of DT990s, but for now these are really good for the money.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ficklampa on Sun, 19 June 2011, 15:31:34
Just compared Koss Porta Pro, AKG K26p and Grado SR80. What a piece of junk those Koss are. Too much base, hardly heard what the singer sang in ZZ Top - Gimme all your lovin.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MissileMike on Sun, 19 June 2011, 16:52:12
Quote from: ficklampa;363542
Just compared Koss Porta Pro, AKG K26p and Grado SR80. What a piece of junk those Koss are. Too much base, hardly heard what the singer sang in ZZ Top - Gimme all your lovin.

You have to cut a nickel-sized hole in the porta pro foam for them to sound any good. After that, they're great for the price- but would never touch the SR-80 for sound quality.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nolo on Mon, 20 June 2011, 21:05:59
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;363110
The heat from those tubes may indeed be lethal.
I don't like "warm" sounding electronic music. Good for a guitar amp, I guess.

Maybe right. Don't know. Never listen to that headphones :(

Btw .. Electronic music
[video=youtube;7RqvPkByI1A]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RqvPkByI1A[/video]

[video=youtube;kdZKhsk01kc]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdZKhsk01kc[/video]
sounds best with my current configuration :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: strum4h on Wed, 22 June 2011, 01:39:22
I want to try a pair of stax so badly lol.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Wed, 22 June 2011, 03:06:05
Quote from: ironman31;363089
I find the LCD-2 to be well driven by relatively weaker amps. My ibasso d10 cobra with the gain drove them past my listen volume.

Make sure you tighten the screws once in a while.  My right screw has made some mild marks on the wood because I wasn't careful and didn't see it being loose.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Wed, 22 June 2011, 07:57:41
Quote from: ficklampa;363542
Just compared Koss Porta Pro, AKG K26p and Grado SR80. What a piece of junk those Koss are. Too much base, hardly heard what the singer sang in ZZ Top - Gimme all your lovin.

To be fair, the Porta Pro's are only $20. I like em.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 22 June 2011, 09:13:26
Quote from: flaming_june;365121
Make sure you tighten the screws once in a while.  My right screw has made some mild marks on the wood because I wasn't careful and didn't see it being loose.

The philips head screws? So far mine seem to be holding up. How long did it take for yours to loosen?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MissileMike on Wed, 22 June 2011, 09:39:14
Quote from: ripster;365217
Ditto on that!!!!
I used to use a behind the neck variation for jogging and if they were still made I still would be still.

You're referring to the ksc-55, they were great!  After they went out of production, i got a bunch for $3 each on ebay- I still use them sometimes.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bilbin on Wed, 22 June 2011, 09:41:24
Those Koss were amazing before I decided to make it more 'open' by making the holes bigger.

Accidentally stabbed one of the drivers and it's all crackly so I don't use them anymore :(

It seems as if the really cheap 75s might be some knock offs because of the plastic casing covering the driver instead of metal.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MissileMike on Wed, 22 June 2011, 09:51:12
99$, wow....  and they sure weren't the most comfortable headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MissileMike on Wed, 22 June 2011, 10:00:33
so dreamy!

[ATTACH=CONFIG]19424[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ficklampa on Wed, 22 June 2011, 13:02:13
Quote from: MissileMike;363574
You have to cut a nickel-sized hole in the porta pro foam for them to sound any good. After that, they're great for the price- but would never touch the SR-80 for sound quality.

Just in the foam or also in the plastic?

Quote from: Daniel Beaver;365190
To be fair, the Porta Pro's are only $20. I like em.

Yes, I know. But everyone seems so excited about them here. Head loads of good stuff, good reviews etc... Had more expectations from them, which I know I shouldn't have had from the first place... Didn't pay for them anyway so it's alright. Should probably give them away to someone that likes them. :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Thu, 23 June 2011, 05:11:49
Quote from: ironman31;365216
The philips head screws? So far mine seem to be holding up. How long did it take for yours to loosen?

 
It didn't take long, but I didn't notice for a long time.

Some of my earlier headphones and gear

(http://i562.photobucket.com/albums/ss68/yellowt/9bb17905.jpg)
(http://i562.photobucket.com/albums/ss68/yellowt/SDC10155.jpg)
(http://i562.photobucket.com/albums/ss68/yellowt/SDC10154.jpg)
(http://i562.photobucket.com/albums/ss68/yellowt/SDC10174.jpg)
(http://i562.photobucket.com/albums/ss68/yellowt/DSCF0030.jpg)

Kinda sorry to say, that's not even half my collection.  My friend's a headfi member since 05 and I joined in 06.  Spent literally thousands since.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Thu, 23 June 2011, 07:44:18
Quote from: ripster;365244
Please note.   "Fly Eyes" is not an Asian joke.
(Attachment) 19434[/ATTACH]

The internet taught me that racism is Okay as long as Kim Jong-il is the butt of the joke.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Thu, 23 June 2011, 09:05:21
Quote from: flaming_june;365955
It didn't take long, but I didn't notice for a long time.

Some of my earlier headphones and gear

Kinda sorry to say, that's not even half my collection.  My friend's a headfi member since 05 and I joined in 06.  Spent literally thousands since.

I was about to buy a pair of RS1i's, but I decided to go all out and get something different than the Grado sound I've heard the past couple years.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Sun, 03 July 2011, 01:30:32
Just bought a pair of these: AKG Q701 (just the K701 in colors).

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41JsK8VN7tL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

I have an ART Headamp4, but its not enough to drive these things.  I would like to get a shiit Asgard, but I'm open to other ideas.  Is the HT Omega Claro Halo headphone amp worth comparing to a dedicated amp?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Mon, 04 July 2011, 00:51:43
After some research, I think the FiiO E9 would be a less expensive alternative. Thoughts?  It's not a  head-fi fave, but I'm not discouraged by that.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Mon, 04 July 2011, 06:16:53
I think you should just resell the q701s and get a 501 instead.  If you just want to update your amp, then it's time to get the Concerto.  If on a tighter budget, then a dynalo would be good.  After being in the hobby since pre 06, I never like to see people go with flavor of the month products like asgard or lyr.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Mon, 04 July 2011, 06:49:34
Quote from: digitalleftovers;372317
I have an ART Headamp4, but its not enough to drive these things.  I would like to get a shiit Asgard, but I'm open to other ideas.  Is the HT Omega Claro Halo headphone amp worth comparing to a dedicated amp?

It's a TPA6120A2 job like you'll also find on an Asus Xonar Essence ST/STX or in a FiiO E9. Should be fine for driving '701s.

The E9 actually wouldn't be a bad match - it's got plenty of gain, too (10 / 18 dB), and them AKGs won't care about the 10 ohm output impedance or show any noise. If you already have a nice soundcard, this would be one to look at. I'd trust a Meier or Lake People amp more when it comes to sustaining high output power, but those also are more expensive.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Mon, 04 July 2011, 20:28:07
No doubt both can drive the 701s, just not very well.  I can run my 600ohm t1 off onboard but it doesn't compare to my mid fi or expensive amps.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Tue, 05 July 2011, 00:08:04
Any thoughts on some of the "little brother" hi-fi stuff? Like the Matrix M-Stage, Corda Swing, or even the Burson H-160...  I wish I could listen to some of the higher end amps to know if it was actually worth the extra money to me.  I think thats the real issue.  I suppose I had a similar dilemma when I got my first Cherry keyboard, but at least I had the urging of a trusted friend.  I'm more on my own with this audio endeavor.  Speaking of Endeavors, I want my round 3 blanks!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrAndersson on Tue, 05 July 2011, 07:31:46
I just got myself the steelseries siberiav2 - in red! Its totally awesome, good bass and super comfortable. wondering how it will be on warm days cuz of the leather earcups, will keep you updated!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Tue, 05 July 2011, 09:10:13
FWIW, I think the KSC35s are equal to or better than the Alessandro MS-1s. I'm pretty sure the Alessandros are the exact same as Grado SR-80. If I remember correctly, the PortaPros use the same drivers as the KSC35s.

My knowledge is fuzzy after so many years of being a speaker convert. YOU SHOULD ALL CONVERT NO EXCUSES!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 05 July 2011, 10:02:19
Quote from: kpeezy;373671
FWIW, I think the KSC35s are equal to or better than the Alessandro MS-1s. I'm pretty sure the Alessandros are the exact same as Grado SR-80. If I remember correctly, the PortaPros use the same drivers as the KSC35s.

My knowledge is fuzzy after so many years of being a speaker convert. YOU SHOULD ALL CONVERT NO EXCUSES!

With headphones you don't need a room for listening to music... and its cheaper. Of course I would like to buy some, but later in life when I can afford a nice setup.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xargos on Tue, 05 July 2011, 11:10:11
Good to see that there are people around here that actually care about sound quality.

Personally, I have Sennheiser HD590 headphones hooked into a Little Dot I+ hybrid headphone amp.  Occasionally I will use a surprisingly decent pair of JVC HA-RX700 headphones with the amp if I want to drown out a little bit of the outside world.

Right now the audio source is an Entech Number Cruncher 205.2 DAC hooked up to a nettop with my CD collection stored in FLAC format.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Tue, 05 July 2011, 12:24:39
If you're really stuck on keeping the q701, then Burson h160 is a good route to go.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Tue, 05 July 2011, 13:23:59
Quote from: ironman31;373683
With headphones you don't need a room for listening to music... and its cheaper. Of course I would like to buy some, but later in life when I can afford a nice setup.

Eh, unless you're in a dorm or some shared bedroom then I don't see the issue. I use Amphion Helium2s on a desktop and it's amazing. There are much smaller monitors too that would work well.

Disclosure: I think speakers are inherently better than headphones and the gap is widened even further by the used prices on speakers. I think people forget about nearfield setups.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Tue, 05 July 2011, 17:21:52
On further inspection of the meier audio page, it looks like the Concerto is no longer available and will be replaced with the Corda Classic in September.  I can't find any info about it, but I may message Jan and ask.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 05 July 2011, 19:26:09
Quote from: kpeezy;373799
Eh, unless you're in a dorm or some shared bedroom then I don't see the issue. I use Amphion Helium2s on a desktop and it's amazing. There are much smaller monitors too that would work well.

Disclosure: I think speakers are inherently better than headphones and the gap is widened even further by the used prices on speakers. I think people forget about nearfield setups.

With my limited experience with a nice speaker setup, I feel that high end headphone systems can be quite nice when compared to equivalent, sometimes more expensive, tower speakers. Though this is only coming from me listening to a couple setups in Audio Alternative in Atlanta.

The Vandersteen VII rig was by far the most realistic sounding peach of audio equipment I've ever heard. And again, I think the entire setup was around 100,000 USD. I also listened to a pair of planar magnetic speakers (around 10k for the pair) and was not immediately impressed. I feel my LCD-2's gave them a run for their money at a fraction of the cost.

Again, these are just limited impressions.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Tue, 05 July 2011, 19:47:33
Quote from: digitalleftovers;373971
On further inspection of the meier audio page, it looks like the Concerto is no longer available and will be replaced with the Corda Classic in September.  I can't find any info about it, but I may message Jan and ask.

Second hand man.  There's at least one on sale on headfi right now.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eyesnine on Tue, 05 July 2011, 21:38:09
Audio Technica ATH-M50. They're really nice.

Good isolation, so I can use them when recording. Deep bass, so I know what's at the low end of my mixes. Excellent detail for editing and getting the settings just right when mastering and mixing. A jack of all trades - outstanding value for audio hobbyists.

I use an E-MU 0404 USB for editing and production work, and an E-MU Tracker Pre for recording. They work well and the converters are the best available for the money. They're the no frills high quality solution.

As for the monitors vs headphones debate...

To some degree it's a matter of personal preference, though I don't entirely agree with that viewpoint. Headphones can offer a level of detail that is not obtainable through monitors. Also, headphones can offer a wider frequency range for the money, by far. For the money, in the $100 headphone vs $100 monitors category, headphones win. Hands down. Really the competition isn't even remotely close.

That said, mastering and mixing on headphones is a bad idea. It's too hard to get the levels right. Headphones have so much detail that some parts that are perfectly audible over headphones completely disappear into the mix over monitors.

Also, speakers are better for casual listening, movies and such. Wearing headphones is a chore sometimes.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 05 July 2011, 21:58:15
Quote from: eyesnine;374227
Also, speakers are better for casual listening, movies and such. Wearing headphones is a chore sometimes.

This is my only problem with headphone listening. Sometimes I don't really feel like something on my head for an extended period of time, especially when I'm wearing glasses. And headphone listening completely takes away the possibility of walking around and doing other things while listening.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Tue, 05 July 2011, 23:52:55
They're also for different applications.  One maybe for hosting a dinner party, while another for quiet personal listening session in an apartment or townhouse when isolation is important.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: shortround on Wed, 06 July 2011, 00:58:24
Quote from: ripster;365244
Made you look like you had Fly Eyes on the side of your head.

Please note.   "Fly Eyes" is not an Asian joke.
(Attachment) 19434[/ATTACH]

He's been among us for a while now:


(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=19434&d=1308766922)



Tiger's mom:
(http://cdn1.newsone.com/files/2009/12/kultidawoods.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bcpk on Wed, 06 July 2011, 08:20:40
AD700 + NuForce uDAC 2 for srs bsns gaming. Otherwise Superlux HD668B.
Fischer DBA-02s + RB'd Sansa Fuze for music.
Meelec Ai-M6P for phone.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MrAndersson on Thu, 07 July 2011, 06:13:51
So what i found is that my ears can get a little sweaty after about 6 hours of useage which imo is ok - this is the first headset I have had that doesnt hurt the top of my ears. Siberiav2 is my best buy so far, they rock!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thp777 on Thu, 07 July 2011, 08:02:34
Ultimate Ears TripleFI 10 in ear monitors with comply foams. I use them for everything even xbox . planning on getting them custom molded soon. maybe in a dark red or blue.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Fri, 08 July 2011, 00:27:23
Quote from: thp777;375321
Ultimate Ears TripleFI 10 in ear monitors with comply foams. I use them for everything even xbox . planning on getting them custom molded soon. maybe in a dark red or blue.

That's a hella lot to spend on a mid fi iem.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: skyblue on Fri, 08 July 2011, 03:12:58
I know this is probably not the best thread to put this in, but I know nothing about audio systems and am looking for some advice.

Want to upgrade the sound system on my rig (using some basic $10 set up right now) and am looking at this system:

http://www.canadacomputers.com/product_info.php?cPath=41_535&item_id=026573

Is this any good for an entry level system? It's only going to be used for music and gaming, I don't really need anything high end.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thp777 on Fri, 08 July 2011, 07:16:17
Quote from: flaming_june;375913
That's a hella lot to spend on a mid fi iem.
i managed to get my iems new for $80 and the reshell is only about $125 at most depending on how much impressions cost me. I dont really like having regular headphones on and i dont NEED to shell out alot for anything super high quality atm because these sound quite nice to me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keyb_gr on Fri, 08 July 2011, 09:36:51
Quote from: skyblue;376007
I know this is probably not the best thread to put this in, but I know nothing about audio systems and am looking for some advice.

Want to upgrade the sound system on my rig (using some basic $10 set up right now) and am looking at this system:

http://www.canadacomputers.com/product_info.php?cPath=41_535&item_id=026573

Is this any good for an entry level system? It's only going to be used for music and gaming, I don't really need anything high end.
Looks to be OK for a cheapie 2.1. From what I could find, it's no miracle in bass and highs quality, but distortion is relatively low.

You can try stuffing an old sock into the bass reflex port to combat boominess, and keep the sub away from walls and the floor, maybe even put it ON the desk if at all possible.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bcpk on Sun, 10 July 2011, 14:25:16
Quote from: ripster;376116
Puiin PK3s!
[IMG]http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6024/5884989322_1e68ccf099_z.jpg[IMG]

The HeadFi hype is justified.

At least for $40 price range.

Yuin.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sun, 10 July 2011, 23:20:07
I'm content with my AD700s, but I still wonder how much better it can possibly get.

Unfortunately, the answer is an expensive one...when I can afford it, I'm entering the exotic world of electrostatics. Seems like they're the way to go for soundstage and imaging, though the other aspects of sound quality aren't hurt either. (Just don't expect bass slam.)

Seems like certain vintage Stax earspeaker models can be had for under $200, but that's only part of the equation when it comes to electrostatics. They need amplification, and the amplifiers themselves (specific to electrostatics, I might add) can be crazy expensive as well, sometimes more than the earspeakers themselves. There are cheaper transformers like the SRD-6/7, but those require speaker-level output from a speaker amplifier (which I fortunately have access to in the form of a couple of old receivers).

Does anyone here have experience with that stuff?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aggiejy on Mon, 11 July 2011, 00:54:53
This thread makes me sad.  I just put my DT 770 Pro 80 on eBay (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230645602067&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT) today.  Loved them, though I have to say they aren't as comfortable to me as may others have said.  I used to have some Sony headphones with a suspension type thing on the top of my head that was SUPER comfortable.  But I lost them and don't remember what they were. :-/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suntorytime on Tue, 12 July 2011, 22:34:13
Quote from: aggiejy;377958
This thread makes me sad.  I just put my DT 770 Pro 80 on eBay (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230645602067&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT) today.  Loved them, though I have to say they aren't as comfortable to me as may others have said.  I used to have some Sony headphones with a suspension type thing on the top of my head that was SUPER comfortable.  But I lost them and don't remember what they were. :-/

They were either the Sony MDR-F1 or SA range i.e. SA3000, SA5000. I had the MDR-F1 and it was the most comfortable headphone i've owned. On another note re Dt770 pro's I agree they aren't as comfortable as people make out due largely imho to the high clamping force in used in the pro range. I got around this by extending the clamps as far as possible and using J Money lambskin ear pads (dealing with him directly was a pain though, and not recommended). The ear pads are thick enough to keep it on my noggin. Either way I very much dislike the sound from the dt770, it's boomy with little control in bass, lack of midrange and ear piercing highs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Thu, 14 July 2011, 03:19:37
Clamping force will reduce over time just by wearing them. Yea, when I got my DT880 Pro's fresh out of the box, they weren't nearly as comfortable as the old Sennheisers. By now, the force is about the same, though the Senns are still the comfort winners. I love the heavy, coiled cables of the Pro line and the 'built like a tank' anodized alu frame though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheGreatAmphibianPling on Thu, 14 July 2011, 07:41:47
Quote from: kpeezy;373799
Eh, unless you're in a dorm or some shared bedroom then I don't see the [need for a listening room].

Room acoustics have a big effect on sound quality. For a certain value of "big", that is. You can spend as much money as you like on speakers but if the room is wrong and you're unwilling to tweak it, then Mr Physics he say "Turn that racket off!" Of course that doesn't mean a tweaked room has to be only for listening to music. And some rooms will need little to no tweaking.

Quote
I use Amphion Helium2s on a desktop and it's amazing. There are much smaller monitors too that would work well.

Disclosure: I think speakers are inherently better than headphones and the gap is widened even further by the used prices on speakers.

IEMs made junk of this reasoning quite a few years ago. In so far as "Inherently better" was ever reasoning. Which was always very little as you don't give any reasons! And anyway "better" is extremely subjective - it may include requirements like isolation and portability. At a given level of quality, speakers cost twice (or more - much more!) than conventional headphones, and conventional headphones twice as much as IEMs. (Well, arguably - it depends how much you believe in the existence of and importance of "sound stage" effects.) Plus they're easy to drive without distortion, so you can forget an amp if your source has a decent built-in one.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 14 July 2011, 07:53:11
For instance I can't bother to pay good money on speakers for either my desk or living room.  The desk is on a balcony/loft, speakers are placed such that the back is against open air.  Also, I can place the sub vent pointed at the carpeted floor or at the side of my desk.  The living room is what the loft looks over, it has a vaulted ceiling at ~45° angle with a 22ft peak, also open onto the dining room under the loft.  One speaker is corner placed and the other backs onto yet more open air where the stairs to the front door/basement are.

Amazing bass amplification/concentration of the living room speakers if I'm sitting at my desk and there's no sound-stage whatsoever no matter where you go.

This is why I'm looking into better headphones than I have rather than a new set of speakers.  I did learn however that the speakers I have had for the last 15 years are amazing not only to my own ears, but others as well... Clements di-108's, I was rather pleased to find out I had chosen wisely when I was a kid.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bry on Mon, 18 July 2011, 10:02:37
I have a pair of A40's and the astro mixamp. Nothing special but they serve me well as a gamer.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Tue, 19 July 2011, 03:10:40
i'm getting a bluetooth adapter for my computer
i have a jawbone BT earpiece that i use for work/personal all day, ppl say it's the best BT i've used and sounds great.
Gonna try to pair this up with computer and see how it works with dragon(dictate)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bcpk on Wed, 20 July 2011, 11:06:39
Quote from: NamelessPFG;377899
I'm content with my AD700s, but I still wonder how much better it can possibly get.

Unfortunately, the answer is an expensive one...when I can afford it, I'm entering the exotic world of electrostatics. Seems like they're the way to go for soundstage and imaging, though the other aspects of sound quality aren't hurt either. (Just don't expect bass slam.)

Seems like certain vintage Stax earspeaker models can be had for under $200, but that's only part of the equation when it comes to electrostatics. They need amplification, and the amplifiers themselves (specific to electrostatics, I might add) can be crazy expensive as well, sometimes more than the earspeakers themselves. There are cheaper transformers like the SRD-6/7, but those require speaker-level output from a speaker amplifier (which I fortunately have access to in the form of a couple of old receivers).

Does anyone here have experience with that stuff?


Next step up from the AD700s is probably the AKG K701s. However, unlike the AD700s, the K701s are very demanding in terms of driving power - you will need an amplifier that costs as much as the headphones themselves to get the best out of them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Yngwie on Fri, 22 July 2011, 08:38:47
I use a pair of AKG K702's for home listening and Triple Fi 10's for portable. Unfortunately I don't have a headphone amp yet :(
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Fri, 22 July 2011, 16:27:07
Quote from: bcpk;384054
Next step up from the AD700s is probably the AKG K701s. However, unlike the AD700s, the K701s are very demanding in terms of driving power - you will need an amplifier that costs as much as the headphones themselves to get the best out of them.
Let me guess-the one in my new-to-me X-Fi Forte isn't going to cut it. (This is an amp where I have to drive all my current headphones at either 5% or 6% volume! 4% and below might as well be 0%, mute. 7% and up is too loud to be comfortable.) But amplifiers aren't really for the volume so much as making sure the drivers get the current (dynamic drivers, anyway) they need to function to their fullest, right?

I'm also hearing recommendations for the Ultrasone Pro 900s in terms of gaming with HRTFs, though those probably need a good amp too.

Those are still dynamics, though...but if the X-Fi Forte dynamic headphone amp is enough, it'll save a considerable bit of expense (and desk space for an old receiver to feed a cheap SRD-series energizer if going the Stax route).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ViciousXUSMC on Mon, 25 July 2011, 09:38:05
AD700, A700, Hfi 2400

[ATTACH=CONFIG]22235[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WasabiJ on Mon, 25 July 2011, 21:03:34
Sony XB-1000's

Only person in Afghaniland with them.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]22372[/ATTACH]

MOOOOOAAAAARRRRR BAAAASSSSSSSSSSSS.

My FiiO e7+e9 combo took a fall and now I'm just using a nuForce μDac.

I plan on rebuilding a collection when I return to the states, starting with a Schiit DAC+Lyr combo.  Yay for built in Toslink from a company I love and respect!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ViciousXUSMC on Mon, 25 July 2011, 22:14:26
I have a uDAC-2 and like it its what I use for my laptop.

At home I use the NuForce HDP

I was maybe thinking of getting the e7 & e9 combo at one point in time.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheChillburger on Mon, 25 July 2011, 22:20:50
Audio Technical AD700 into an Asus Xonar DX sound card. A nice bang for your buck and super comfy.

Sent from my SCH-I500 using Tapatalk
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WasabiJ on Tue, 26 July 2011, 03:42:52
Quote from: ViciousXUSMC;387172
I have a uDAC-2 and like it its what I use for my laptop.

At home I use the NuForce HDP

I was maybe thinking of getting the e7 & e9 combo at one point in time.

It's a really good deal for the money.  I just didn't wanna drop another $150 on the combo when I'm gonna be deployed, and possibly break them again.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: 4LI4Z on Wed, 27 July 2011, 09:57:33
I have a AKG K530 and I love it for gaming and especially listening to music. It´s an awesome headphone for 60 bucks, great.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dox on Tue, 02 August 2011, 21:16:24
I love my Shures SRH840!
[ATTACH=CONFIG]23129[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Boyiee on Sat, 06 August 2011, 15:50:58
I use modded senn hd 555's but now am looking to increase the sound quality.

Was looking at a e7 and a nuforce DAC. Are these good choices? I don't want to go overboard, but I need to get away from onboard.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Sun, 07 August 2011, 21:25:34
Quote from: Boyiee;394292
I use modded senn hd 555's but now am looking to increase the sound quality.

Was looking at a e7 and a nuforce DAC. Are these good choices? I don't want to go overboard, but I need to get away from onboard.

In terms of real improvements you're probably better off with a low-end pro audio soundcard. The Nuforce is a bit of a joke and while the Fiio is fine (and useful if you want to amp portably) it's not a drastic improvement on many onboards nowadays, if at all.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Boyiee on Sun, 07 August 2011, 22:45:22
I don't need portability, I was told that what I need most is an amp. Also I like to use both my speakers and headphones simultaneously (typically playing sound from 2 different things at once) so a DAC seemed like a good buy.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Mon, 08 August 2011, 06:57:28
Quote from: Boyiee;394940
I don't need portability, I was told that what I need most is an amp. Also I like to use both my speakers and headphones simultaneously (typically playing sound from 2 different things at once) so a DAC seemed like a good buy.

Well - it's really about what you like best, both in terms of how you go with peer opinion and what you think is a nice audio toy. Let's face it, a lot of this audio thing can come down to how cool the amp /device looks.

The absolute truth is that if your onboard isn't total dreck (and most recent ones fall into that category) it'll drive most headphones perfectly well to perfectly decent quality - enough that you'd have to spend several hundred (even on a non-BS-imbued piece of equipment) to get quantifiably better.

e.g. all the onboards that I have generally around me will drive a Beyerdynamic T1 - a 600-ohm (albeit very efficient) phone - or an Ultrasone Edition 8 - a lower-impedance phone with efficiency a bit on the low side which many on forums like Head-Fi will say in a blanket manner that it needs "amping" :suspicious: - to decent quantifiable quality and relatively ear-bleeding volumes. In fact, many $10 'fleabay specials' USB interfaces based around e.g. the Cirrus codecs are also capable of doing the same. And if an Ed8 works, an HD555 should be zero problem for those decent onboards, although I will admit it's not a headphone I've owned.

If you want signal routing flexibility and decent quality and having an onboard battery is not a necessity, I'd say a relatively low-end pro audio interface is a better bet. Not only there's less BS in the level of sound quality you'll get, the better ones have software / hardware control of signal routing - so you can route only to headphones, to monitors, etc. Take a look at something like a Focusrite Saffire 6 USB. There's a highly Google-ranked review on Head-Fi about it which just points out everything that's wrong with the community but it's a solid, decent-quality interface which has good signal flexibility for the price/IOs. I use RME Babyfaces in what would be a similar role but it may be a bit rich if you're considering the Fiio/Nuforce.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Boyiee on Mon, 08 August 2011, 08:16:37
Yeah I've come to understand that my onboard is actually pretty good, and since I'm no audiophile that I really shouldn't need to upgrade. My problem is some games I like having the audio come through the speakers while having ventrilo through my headset. Other games I want both in headset. Right now I'm using a crappy creative USB dac that is starting to fail on me requiring replacement. I've also been looking at getting new speakers as well, which shouldn't NEED a dedicated sound card, but a dac to keep my current setup of game-through-speaker vent-trough-headphone pretty happy. That's there the fiio's came into play... Although I've been debating this decision of what to buy or what to upgrade for about 4 months now, cause I have no real direction. Do I get new speakers, like corsair or klipch promedia, do I get a headphone amp dac. Computer audio is something I just don't know enough about so I've been beating around the bush forever trying to decide, and time is running out before I HAVE to make some purchase and I really don't want it to be some impulse buy.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Mon, 08 August 2011, 10:34:14
I'd say in general, blow your money on the things that actually make the noises - speakers, headphones/sets - than 'audiophile-grade' accoutrements.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HaveANiceDay on Mon, 08 August 2011, 11:37:49
Everyone knows that if we could build DAC's out of money, they would be the best sounding.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Mon, 08 August 2011, 12:22:28
Quote from: HaveANiceDay;395167
Everyone knows that if we could build DAC's out of money, they would be the best sounding.

That should be the Head-Fi slogan.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Tue, 09 August 2011, 14:30:06
Quote from: arpod;395135
I'd say in general, blow your money on the things that actually make the noises - speakers, headphones/sets - than 'audiophile-grade' accoutrements.

agreed 1000%
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 30 August 2011, 09:22:06
I finally got lucky.

Stax SR-Lambda normal bias (with rebuilt drivers, albeit with 2.5 micron mylar now) and SRD-7SB for $250 shipped. They haven't shipped yet, but I just paid yesterday and it's only 10:20am.

They ought to make soundwhoring in games really easy, let alone what they'll do for music, but now I'll have to keep an old receiver parked on my desk just to feed the SRD-7 (needs speaker-level input) until I have the money for a dedicated amp and not a mere transformer box.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Boyiee on Tue, 30 August 2011, 11:44:37
I still havent made a purchase, still not sure if I want all sound going through headphones or not. That fiio headphone amp is getting more tempting everyday. It feels like a waste dedicating my sennheisers mostly for ventrilo, but games like wow (need sound for pvp) I don't think I could tolerate coming through headphones.

BF3 will be the real test.

Edit: maybe I'll just bite the bullet and get a new set of phones. Not sure what's a good upgrade from modded hd555s, especially still using onboard.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 30 August 2011, 12:23:29
Quote from: NamelessPFG;407357
I finally got lucky.

Stax SR-Lambda normal bias (with rebuilt drivers, albeit with 2.5 micron mylar now) and SRD-7SB for $250 shipped. They haven't shipped yet, but I just paid yesterday and it's only 10:20am.

They ought to make soundwhoring in games really easy, let alone what they'll do for music, but now I'll have to keep an old receiver parked on my desk just to feed the SRD-7 (needs speaker-level input) until I have the money for a dedicated amp and not a mere transformer box.

High fidelity isn't necessarily game-worthy. My G35 does a better job in that regard than any high-end phone I own/ed. I also own the Beyer MMX300's but I use them primarily for Skype duties, preferring the Logitechs for gaming.

Quote from: Boyiee;407475
I still havent made a purchase, still not sure if I want all sound going through headphones or not. That fiio headphone amp is getting more tempting everyday. It feels like a waste dedicating my sennheisers mostly for ventrilo, but games like wow (need sound for pvp) I don't think I could tolerate coming through headphones.

BF3 will be the real test.

Edit: maybe I'll just bite the bullet and get a new set of phones. Not sure what's a good upgrade from modded hd555s, especially still using onboard.

Clearly depends on what it's going to be used for in terms of percentage of time, whether open/closed and budget.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Boyiee on Tue, 30 August 2011, 12:50:02
Can sell the 555s probably for a few bucks, I got a decent budget if its worth it. I game mostly and listen to music 2nd. Games I play are FPS and wow. Currently using open and like it, haven't used closed in a long time. No preference really.

I want to upgrade somewhere, just not sure where. Amp? Well these headphones wont benefit much from that. So new phones? Well I'd probably want to get away from onboard if I do that.

Any suggestions on the best upgrade path?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 30 August 2011, 15:18:34
Headset IMO. Senn 360?

If headphone, if you want a real jump I'd say something like the HD650 - which would justify the purchase of the Fiio.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 30 August 2011, 16:20:31
Quote from: arpod;407507
High fidelity isn't necessarily game-worthy. My G35 does a better job in that regard than any high-end phone I own/ed. I also own the Beyer MMX300's but I use them primarily for Skype duties, preferring the Logitechs for gaming.
Point taken, but have you even owned Stax before? Or any other electrostatic headphone (Koss ESP/950 or some other non-Stax vintage models), for that matter?

With the G35, how much of that preference goes to the actual sound signature of the headset itself, and how much goes to Dolby Headphone? That's another thing that has to be considered; the G35 is hard-wired to its own USB DAC/DSP, while I don't even know what the source for your high-end headphones would be, let alone if it provides binaural surround ala Dolby Headphone or CMSS-3D Headphone.

Whatever the case, I'll find out soon if the Stax sound is for me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Chobopants on Tue, 30 August 2011, 16:24:16
Anyone try the 598s yet? How do they compare to the 555s? I've been eyeing them for a while but don't know if it's worth it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 30 August 2011, 16:58:58
Quote from: NamelessPFG;407653
Point taken, but have you even owned Stax before? Or any other electrostatic headphone (Koss ESP/950 or some other non-Stax vintage models), for that matter?

SR-007 MkI / II, as well as the Orpheus. Experience enough for you?

Quote
With the G35, how much of that preference goes to the actual sound signature of the headset itself, and how much goes to Dolby Headphone? That's another thing that has to be considered; the G35 is hard-wired to its own USB DAC/DSP, while I don't even know what the source for your high-end headphones would be, let alone if it provides binaural surround ala Dolby Headphone or CMSS-3D Headphone.

Whatever the case, I'll find out soon if the Stax sound is for me.

I'm not saying the G35 specifically is the be-all and end-all, you understand. I'm saying horses for courses, and that it's easy to get too wrapped up in this stuff that you're hammering the law of diminishing returns for what you're trying to achieve. This guy isn't for example listing music as his primary use. And I'm saying that some gaming headsets manage to provide more than adequate performance for gaming, are definitely usable for actually enjoying music, and are more tractable as everyday-use items than some chi-chi headphone for gaming-first use.

In my home office setup for example I keep a Beyerdynamic T1 on the side for what you could call critical music listening, but the truth is that I almost never use it - I'll go into the living room if I actually want to listen - but the vast majority of time the G35 or the MMX 300 are far handier to use and deliver absolutely acceptable sound for checking out music, and the G35 in particular is far more useful for gaming. If I was 'gaming-first' I wouldn't even bother having the Tesla around in that room.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 30 August 2011, 17:05:00
Quote from: Chobopants;407656
Anyone try the 598s yet? How do they compare to the 555s? I've been eyeing them for a while but don't know if it's worth it.


By all accounts they're reskinned 595's which should mean an improvement over the 555 - but personally as I said I'd rather just make the jump to the HD650.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 30 August 2011, 17:34:41
Quote from: arpod;407668
SR-007 MkI / II, as well as the Orpheus. Experience enough for you?

More than enough. Those were flagships!

Quote from: arpod;407668
I'm not saying the G35 specifically is the be-all and end-all, you understand. I'm saying horses for courses, and that it's easy to get too wrapped up in this stuff that you're hammering the law of diminishing returns for what you're trying to achieve. This guy isn't for example listing music as his primary use. And I'm saying that some gaming headsets manage to provide more than adequate performance for gaming, are definitely usable for actually enjoying music, and are more tractable as everyday-use items than some chi-chi headphone for gaming-first use.

In my home office setup for example I keep a Beyerdynamic T1 on the side for what you could call critical music listening, but the truth is that I almost never use it - I'll go into the living room if I actually want to listen - but the vast majority of time the G35 or the MMX 300 are far handier to use and deliver absolutely acceptable sound for checking out music, and the G35 in particular is far more useful for gaming. If I was 'gaming-first' I wouldn't even bother having the Tesla around in that room.

So it's also a matter of convenience. I already know that SRD-7SB is going to have to warm up at first (might even take a whole hour to do so), among other things.

Note that headsets with boom mics don't factor in heavily for gaming in my case because I already have a desk mic and just use that. What I am concerned about is hearing potential threats and from what direction, and some people seem to find this much easier with electrostats compared to dynamics or orthos. Smyth even bundles a basic Stax setup with the Realiser.

Also note that I do enjoy my fair share of music (especially when I find new bands I happen to like; not difficult with very limited music experience/knowledge overall), even if the vast majority of it is merely 16/44.1 CD quality at most. Maybe buying $250+ (more like $300+ when you factor eBay prices) headphones is overkill, but I'm still reasonably sure there's room for improvement over the AD700s on the same source material.

The law of diminishing returns is definitely something I'll have to be wary of (especially with all the audiophile snake oil and hype flying about), but I don't see myself needing anything better than that Lambda for a long while.

Ultimately, though, you have one thing I don't when it comes to audio equipment, and that's experience. You've already heard flagships of all sorts in action, whereas the best headphones I've ever had are mere AD700s (at least until Thursday). A lot of this boils down to simple curiosity-how much better does it get (within reasonable budgets), and what do electrostatics sound like compared to dynamics?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Chobopants on Tue, 30 August 2011, 17:43:38
Quote from: arpod;407670
By all accounts they're reskinned 595's which should mean an improvement over the 555 - but personally as I said I'd rather just make the jump to the HD650.

This is actually probably good advice. Once you're hovering around the $200 range you may as well go to $350 and get the best.

I've used 595's side by side next to 555's and the different wasn't striking enough that I felt any desire to upgrade. I think I'll just continue to enjoy my 555's and try to ignore the audiophile discussions that lead you down the path to ruin!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Thu, 01 September 2011, 15:49:32
I've had my Lambda for a few hours now, and so far, I'm liking it.

-It's very light and comfortable. Even moreso than the AD700, which is saying something.
-They're not kidding when they say the music just tends to float into your ears. Very, very little eardrum-thumping compared to dynamic drivers of any sort. I'm not complaining.
-Music seems to be less...veiled, for lack of a better term. Perhaps this is what the Stax fans meant by "clear sound".
-Gaming with CMSS-3D Headphone is just as effective, if not moreso. Front imaging seems a bit better over the AD700s, though I haven't ruled out the possibility that it could be even better if CMSS-3D Headphone's generic HRTF settings perfectly matched my own unique HRTF.
-The TrackClip Pro fits better on the Lambda's headband than the AD700's. Not that this is going to concern most people, but as comfortable as these things are, I'd rather not have to wear a baseball cap with a reflector clip on it whenever I'm in a dogfighting mood. (While I'm at it, what if it could be used to approximate the head-tracking feature of the Beyerdynamic Headzone and Smyth SVS Realiser in software?)

Still just first impressions, though, and confirmation bias could be kicking in. Regardless, I already like these, and the only real negative is that I need this huge receiver on my desk just to serve as a speaker amp for the SRD-7/SB.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: strum4h on Fri, 02 September 2011, 06:54:02
I have been eyeing a pair of AIAIA TMA-1's for a while. I mainly listen to Jazz, Trip-Hop, House, and IDM. I was wondering if anyone has had experience with these.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: csm725 on Fri, 02 September 2011, 07:30:37
How are the 558's? I love the 598's look.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Fri, 02 September 2011, 10:43:20
Quote from: NamelessPFG;408987
I've had my Lambda for a few hours now, and so far, I'm liking it.

-It's very light and comfortable. Even moreso than the AD700, which is saying something.
-They're not kidding when they say the music just tends to float into your ears. Very, very little eardrum-thumping compared to dynamic drivers of any sort. I'm not complaining.
-Music seems to be less...veiled, for lack of a better term. Perhaps this is what the Stax fans meant by "clear sound".
-Gaming with CMSS-3D Headphone is just as effective, if not moreso. Front imaging seems a bit better over the AD700s, though I haven't ruled out the possibility that it could be even better if CMSS-3D Headphone's generic HRTF settings perfectly matched my own unique HRTF.
-The TrackClip Pro fits better on the Lambda's headband than the AD700's. Not that this is going to concern most people, but as comfortable as these things are, I'd rather not have to wear a baseball cap with a reflector clip on it whenever I'm in a dogfighting mood. (While I'm at it, what if it could be used to approximate the head-tracking feature of the Beyerdynamic Headzone and Smyth SVS Realiser in software?)

Still just first impressions, though, and confirmation bias could be kicking in. Regardless, I already like these, and the only real negative is that I need this huge receiver on my desk just to serve as a speaker amp for the SRD-7/SB.

Having stuck the Orpheus on the Elite Pro among other CMSS cards, I can say it's no better and no worse from a gaming standpoint than something like the G35 - in fact, for me the G35 implementation might be better. Neither is an actually accurate positioning indicator even in titles I know to be compatible - generic HRTF is generic HRTF. Basically once you get beyond a certain degree of capability (and that is beyond the sub-par AD700 / A700. I dunno why the 'I'm a fauxphile' gamers have recently taken to these) it doesn't make any difference, and in fact, if you want any semi-meaningful degree of positioning capability with generic HRTF it does help to compress down the soundstage so that you get a more manageable sound bubble for CMSS / Dolby effects to take place in. The Ultrasone Edition 8 with the S-Logic soundstaging for example is one previous headphone I've owned that is actually quite a decent gaming headphone. It's also relatively lightweight and tractable and it would make for an incredibly bad-value but fairly effective adjunct to my G35 :tongue1:

One problem of electrostatics is that they can lack the dynamic impact that you'd want from a gaming phone - the Omega II's for example would definitely not be my first choice in a gaming headphone. But for classical / indie / folk etc music-first use I don't see any problems.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Chobopants on Fri, 02 September 2011, 13:05:55
Quote from: csm725;409258
How are the 558's? I love the 598's look.

From the sounds of it the new series is just rebranded older ones? Probably not worth the upgrade if you already have 555/595s? Was kind of looking for an excuse to try them out but I haven't heard and strong recommendations for them over the older ones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Fri, 02 September 2011, 15:43:46
Quote from: arpod;409382
Having stuck the Orpheus on the Elite Pro among other CMSS cards, I can say it's no better and no worse from a gaming standpoint than something like the G35 - in fact, for me the G35 implementation might be better. Neither is an actually accurate positioning indicator even in titles I know to be compatible - generic HRTF is generic HRTF. Basically once you get beyond a certain degree of capability (and that is beyond the sub-par AD700 / A700. I dunno why the 'I'm a fauxphile' gamers have recently taken to these) it doesn't make any difference, and in fact, if you want any semi-meaningful degree of positioning capability with generic HRTF it does help to compress down the soundstage so that you get a more manageable sound bubble for CMSS / Dolby effects to take place in. The Ultrasone Edition 8 with the S-Logic soundstaging for example is one previous headphone I've owned that is actually quite a decent gaming headphone. It's also relatively lightweight and tractable and it would make for an incredibly bad-value but fairly effective adjunct to my G35 :tongue1:

One problem of electrostatics is that they can lack the dynamic impact that you'd want from a gaming phone - the Omega II's for example would definitely not be my first choice in a gaming headphone. But for classical / indie / folk etc music-first use I don't see any problems.
Understandable. What we really need is something with personalized HRTFs. So far, I only see MyEars (test a bunch of presets, set a "virtual audio cable" as default audio device and lose my X-Fi's gaming features in the process, may be subscription-based) and the Smyth SVS Realiser (requires a surround speaker room to configure properly, EXPENSIVE, still constrained to 7.1 imaging). But for now, CMSS-3D Headphone will do.

For gaming alone, I wouldn't go out and suggest that everyone buy a Stax setup due to the amp requirement and cost (I just happened to get off easy for just $250, most will have to pay significantly more than that). I don't notice a dramatic improvement over the AD700s for that. Diminishing returns have become apparent, to the point where the generic HRTF system has become the bottleneck. In my case, I didn't buy them just for gaming, but for music and the occasional movie too, and I've found that I just happen to like the way electrostatics reproduce music.

I'm actually not really looking for dynamic impact on my eardrums, which is why I don't mind electrostatics. If I wanted that, I'd probably slip a subwoofer under my chair so my whole body gets hammered and not just my eardrums. Even without it, there's still a bit of thump on my ears with the bass notes (and I certainly don't find the Lambdas anemic there).

As for the AD700s, why do you consider them sub-par? Is it the whole anemic bass thing? Is it because you find them TOO open and spacious for generic HRTF filters to work their best? I didn't buy them with any pretense of considering them audiophile headphones by a long shot; I just wanted something more competent for gaming with CMSS-3D Headphone, and the AD700s did that far better than the other cheap or old headphones I had lying around at the time, so I felt they were worth it.

Ultimately, though, we're just proving again that sound is highly subjective. Not everyone is going to like a given headphone's sound signature, and that's all right because this is an open market and we can get what we want without imposing our choices on everyone else.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sam113101 on Sat, 03 September 2011, 14:46:51
Srh750dj:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]25621[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Sat, 03 September 2011, 15:15:53
No, what I find amusing about the A700/AD700 from the fauxphile gamer aspect is that these phones are pretty much at the same level of performance as the headsets that these guys look down on. It's kind of become the must have, and I just don't understand why. It's probably that most people can't afford to buy a decent headset along with the A/AD and compare - and let's face it, most people want to be right about their choices, yet not every one can - like e.g. me - just go out and buy everything simultaneously to compare even if he's curious.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Chobopants on Sat, 03 September 2011, 16:22:34
Sennheiser makes an HD280 headphone that also has a headset:
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HMD-280-XQ-Headset-ear-cup/dp/B000Z76JBM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1315084027&sr=8-3

A great option for "gamer" headphones. :) I'd pick some up if I didn't just use HD555's with a clip on mic, I LOVE my HD280s for work/traveling.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Keymonger on Sat, 03 September 2011, 21:16:44
Quote from: Chobopants;407656
Anyone try the 598s yet? How do they compare to the 555s? I've been eyeing them for a while but don't know if it's worth it.
I upgraded from a 555 (with that foam remove mod) to a 598. IMO, it's a big enough difference for me that I was happy with my purchase. I was actually quite surprised at the difference, the sound is wider (think this is called headstage? the difference between the most quiet and most loud sound). I'm not much of an audiophile so I can't say more than that.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Sun, 04 September 2011, 05:42:59
Quote from: Chobopants;410099
Sennheiser makes an HD280 headphone that also has a headset:
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HMD-280-XQ-Headset-ear-cup/dp/B000Z76JBM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1315084027&sr=8-3

A great option for "gamer" headphones. :) I'd pick some up if I didn't just use HD555's with a clip on mic, I LOVE my HD280s for work/traveling.

A comparatively poor option compared to the MMX 300 IMO, and not the best comparison in terms of price/capability next to the G35.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kpeezy on Sun, 04 September 2011, 11:42:44
I would be looking for an HMD-25 of some sort for an integrated microphone.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Chobopants on Sun, 04 September 2011, 14:15:34
Quote from: arpod;410377
A comparatively poor option compared to the MMX 300 IMO, and not the best comparison in terms of price/capability next to the G35.


Um, if you say so. If it has the same headphone base as the HD280s I'd say it's likely a great headset, I LOVE my 280s. BDs are great headphones as well but the price of those MMXs is wild. I agree that the price on the 280-XQ is a bit silly (adding over $100 to the price just for a microphone????).

I actually think 280s are greatly underrated headphones, probably because of their <$100 price. I've used all sorts of ridiculous multi-thousand dollar reference headphones with all sorts of amps and blah blah electrodynamo jerk off stuff in recording situations and always go back to my 280s pleasantly surprised.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Sun, 04 September 2011, 16:09:56
Quote from: Chobopants;410541
Um, if you say so. If it has the same headphone base as the HD280s I'd say it's likely a great headset, I LOVE my 280s. BDs are great headphones as well but the price of those MMXs is wild. I agree that the price on the 280-XQ is a bit silly (adding over $100 to the price just for a microphone????).

I actually think 280s are greatly underrated headphones, probably because of their <$100 price. I've used all sorts of ridiculous multi-thousand dollar reference headphones with all sorts of amps and blah blah electrodynamo jerk off stuff in recording situations and always go back to my 280s pleasantly surprised.

They're great for the money (if a little antiseptic) but no giant-killers.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Chobopants on Sun, 04 September 2011, 16:26:37
Hmm, odd. Antiseptic is the last thing I'd use to describe them. If anything they're a tad warm and the closed soundstage can feel a little claustrophobic for live classical and jazz performances.

There's a reason I have 555s and a nice amp at home. Right around the 555/595 range you start to see some pretty stark diminishing returns on your investment. I've used 650s and above (some fancy Beyers) and, yes they ARE better but for the price difference it's tough to justify the purchase.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Mon, 05 September 2011, 03:32:33
Quote from: Chobopants;410587
Hmm, odd. Antiseptic is the last thing I'd use to describe them. If anything they're a tad warm and the closed soundstage can feel a little claustrophobic for live classical and jazz performances.

Antiseptic meaning 'somewhat devoid of a dynamic character'. They do have a slight fall-off in the highs and a flat bass. Technically they're not miracle-workers either, although they're definitely better value than the Audio-Technicas.

Quote
There's a reason I have 555s and a nice amp at home. Right around the 555/595 range you start to see some pretty stark diminishing returns on your investment. I've used 650s and above (some fancy Beyers) and, yes they ARE better but for the price difference it's tough to justify the purchase.

Used and owned are different, since most people's assessment of audio above all is 100% subjective. Take the 'nice amp' for example, which in all likelihood could be bested by an onboard. But there is some truth to that. I don't think there's any point in any person who actually has to consider more than a second affording it having anything more than an HD650* headphone-wise (although I will say the Orpheus does coalesce into something 'uber'). All of which of course makes the fauxphile-nose-look-down of gaming headsets all the more ridiculous.

*Which is why if you're looking to have a really nice pair, it makes sense just to get one and be done with it
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dorkvader on Tue, 06 September 2011, 07:30:28
I use:
Fostex T50 RP for portable and general use.
Audio Technica ATH AD900 for gaming, movies, progressive music, etc.
Grado SR225i is almost never used.

Gamma2 DAC and CKK-iii amp are still (unfortunately) in the woks.
---
I'm really loving the ortho sound of the Fostex cans. Everyone should get them.
The AD900 is like the AD700 (apparently) but better all 'round (and black).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 06 September 2011, 12:41:42
Wait a minute...T50RP for portable use? Presumably without a portable amp? I've heard that they're rather insensitive and need an amp to get the most out of them.

In other news...damn, people will really pay up for the Sennheiser Orpheus systems! (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sennheiser-Orpheus-system-Collectors-item-/120773482406?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c1ea917a6#ht_500wt_959) That's Stax SR-009 + Blue Hawaii SE money there...perhaps part of the appeal is the rarity of the Orpheus system, along with the aesthetic.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 06 September 2011, 13:17:30
Quote from: NamelessPFG;411465
Wait a minute...T50RP for portable use? Presumably without a portable amp? I've heard that they're rather insensitive and need an amp to get the most out of them.

In other news...damn, people will really pay up for the Sennheiser Orpheus systems! (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sennheiser-Orpheus-system-Collectors-item-/120773482406?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c1ea917a6#ht_500wt_959) That's Stax SR-009 + Blue Hawaii SE money there...perhaps part of the appeal is the rarity of the Orpheus system, along with the aesthetic.

The aesthetic can wear after a while. It certainly doesn't fit with my other gear in the living room.
The sound is a big part I have to say. I've still heard nothing that comes close as an all-round pleasurable entity.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: whiskerBox on Tue, 06 September 2011, 14:56:48
These are my latest

(http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee451/johnjohns0n/DSCN0922.jpg)

(http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee451/johnjohns0n/DSCN0920.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: forTruce on Wed, 07 September 2011, 00:26:46
Been browsing thru the thread and thought I would ask for a quick tip.  I am looking into getting a good headset as I have never experienced good quality audio.  I was most likely going to get the Sennheiser 595's, but I'm still not sure what I need to get to accompany them (soundcard/amp/whatever).  If it makes a difference its about a 50/50 split between music and gaming as far as uses go.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Wed, 07 September 2011, 02:15:50
gonna try audio technica athnc7(prolly got that wrong)
basically their top of the line noise cancelling, why this over a bose? i just hate bose? rather gonna let fiance and her trip to russia/germany test it out.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mitchellderp on Wed, 07 September 2011, 12:49:42
Geekhackers - I have finally perfected my setup in the way of keyboard, mouse and mousepad. Only problem is, my speakers are now kaput as the left speaker is half the volume of the right one. Can you recommend any good reasonably priced headsets that are available from Amazon.co.uk, as their returns policy is freaking awesome! Preferably with a mic attached as I've just started using skype a lot to talk to people I know.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Thu, 08 September 2011, 05:44:05
Quote from: Mitchellderp;412103
Geekhackers - I have finally perfected my setup in the way of keyboard, mouse and mousepad. Only problem is, my speakers are now kaput as the left speaker is half the volume of the right one. Can you recommend any good reasonably priced headsets that are available from Amazon.co.uk, as their returns policy is freaking awesome! Preferably with a mic attached as I've just started using skype a lot to talk to people I know.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Corsair-CA-HS1EU-HS1-Gaming-Headset/dp/B00439ZDZQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1315478612&sr=8-1
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mitchellderp on Thu, 08 September 2011, 12:08:26
Sweet, that'll go with the A70 in my system and the HX520 powering it all. One day, all of my components will be Corsair, they're just so freaking awesome.

EDIT: Whose referral link is that?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nar on Thu, 08 September 2011, 13:54:20
I use an Alessandro MS-1i when I'm at home and a pair of Sunrise Audio AS-Feeling earbuds elsewhere.
Just can't stand the feeling of in-ears.

I've also wanted to make a mini3 amp but I've never gotten around to it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Thu, 08 September 2011, 16:43:51
Quote from: Mitchellderp;412731
Sweet, that'll go with the A70 in my system and the HX520 powering it all. One day, all of my components will be Corsair, they're just so freaking awesome.

EDIT: Whose referral link is that?

None that I'm aware of. Just search for Corsair HS1.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Fri, 09 September 2011, 17:11:35
audio technica athnc7 is great, i couldn't hear my air cleaner no more (if anyone has a hepa air cleaner, you know what i mean) but am i supposed to be able to hear voices like the tv? I took these and walked the dog with them outside and i could only hear crickets, i took them off and heard all the ac's blowing.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Fri, 09 September 2011, 18:55:01
Quote from: ripster;413595
My son uses the Sennheiser PC350.  Frankly, I think the sound sucks but the mike is excellent.[/QUOTE

I wouldn't say 'sucks' but it's a very uninvolving sound for a gaming headset.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Muldoonite on Fri, 09 September 2011, 22:15:02
(http://i.imgur.com/HuKzy)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Muldoonite on Fri, 09 September 2011, 22:17:56
(http://i.imgur.com/HuKzy.jpg) (http://imgur.com/HuKzy)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dorkvader on Sun, 11 September 2011, 18:50:40
Quote from: NamelessPFG;411465
Wait a minute...T50RP for portable use? Presumably without a portable amp? I've heard that they're rather insensitive and need an amp to get the most out of them.


They're fine out of my rockbox'd sansa fuze. My 'scope says it can do 1V+ peak to peak before clipping.

I do plan on building a portable buffer for the current capacity, though.

The biggest problem is that the stock cable is 1/4" and my diy adaptor bent :(

Don't buy the canare miniplugs.
---
no ,the vintage T50 (not RP) and most other ortho/isodynamic headphones you really need the current, as they're stupidly inefficient.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Mon, 12 September 2011, 06:06:19
Quote from: dorkvader;414624
They're fine out of my rockbox'd sansa fuze. My 'scope says it can do 1V+ peak to peak before clipping.

I do plan on building a portable buffer for the current capacity, though.

The biggest problem is that the stock cable is 1/4" and my diy adaptor bent :(

Don't buy the canare miniplugs.
---
no ,the vintage T50 (not RP) and most other ortho/isodynamic headphones you really need the current, as they're stupidly inefficient.
In that case, I might just consider picking up a T50RP as a portable set provided that it's comfortable and doesn't leak too much sound, though I would prefer a 1.8"/3.5mm TRS jack on the stock cable. It would also be a nice intro to orthodynamics to round out my dynamic and now electrostatic experiences.

As far as comfort goes, it's said that making better pads will go a long way there, and possibly even improve the sound quality.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dorkvader on Mon, 12 September 2011, 07:33:27
If you're into modding, the cheaper T40 and T20 have (I believe) the same driver.

Also, you can use some 3.5 mm interconnects as the headphone cable. Note you may have to shave some plastic down to get it to fit in the locking inlet, or you can replace the jack completely (which I am very close to doing)

I find it pretty comfortable when walking around. I wear them for at least 90 minutes when I have to work Saturday (there's no bus). They don't really leak that much, especially for an "open" design.

new pads would be nice, but I do know the stax 02 pads that seem to be everyone's favourite replacement are something like 80% the cost of the headphone. That may be price per pad, as well.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Mon, 12 September 2011, 17:27:22
Same driver, much less cost? Now I'm really interested, and no, I'm not averse to modding. (If anything, it's said that the weakest part of the Fostex orthos is NOT the driver, but the enclosure. Now, if you've got $500 to spend, you could get some Thunderpants, which use those very same drivers from the look of it...but the enclosure is said to be that much better as far as sound quality goes. Or maybe people just like the wood look. Who knows?)

And as for the Stax SR-007/Omega 2 pads, I do remember hearing about someone sticking those on a set of SR-X/MK3s and saying the sound quality improved noticeably in addition to comfort. Too bad they're so expensive...but I suppose it's expected when it's an accessory for what is usually a $2,500 headphone.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suntorytime on Mon, 12 September 2011, 19:51:16
Recently I've had the chance to try out the Sony MDR-Z1000 and find that it's probably the best general sounding headphone I've heard. It sort of does everything well, unlike my Ultrasone and DT770. To cap it off, the z1k sounds great without amping. Downside is that the small cups really kill my ears after 2-3 hours. They have pretty much convinced me to try out the flagship IEMs from Sony :/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 13 September 2011, 06:10:58
Quote from: suntorytime;415218
Recently I've had the chance to try out the Sony MDR-Z1000 and find that it's probably the best general sounding headphone I've heard. It sort of does everything well, unlike my Ultrasone and DT770. To cap it off, the z1k sounds great without amping. Downside is that the small cups really kill my ears after 2-3 hours. They have pretty much convinced me to try out the flagship IEMs from Sony :/

The problem with the Z1K for me was that I think they're a 'neither here nor there' halfway house in terms of utility. Somewhat large to be portable, somewhat small to be truly domestic headphones - so in a non-pro scenario (these are basically high-end studio monitors after all) I found it difficult to justify a home. The Ultrasone Edition 8 is more compact, yet I still found these too large to be usefully carryable as portable headphones when I tried commuting with them, and there are better headphones for purely home use, even around the same price.

The problem for me with the Sony IEM's is also what makes the higher-end variants sound really good - the dynamic drivers. If I'm investing in a pair of IEM's what I really want is isolation along with appropriate sound quality - and the Sony tech just does not hack it in that regard. The armature-based IEMs are (although unbelievably bad value for money comparatively speaking) where its at for me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suntorytime on Tue, 13 September 2011, 19:07:05
Quote from: arpod;415392
The problem with the Z1K for me was that I think they're a 'neither here nor there' halfway house in terms of utility. Somewhat large to be portable, somewhat small to be truly domestic headphones - so in a non-pro scenario (these are basically high-end studio monitors after all) I found it difficult to justify a home. The Ultrasone Edition 8 is more compact, yet I still found these too large to be usefully carryable as portable headphones when I tried commuting with them, and there are better headphones for purely home use, even around the same price...

I definitely agree with you there, I only wish Sony would build on the z1k and make a full size out of it, but this seems unlikely as Sony is inept at capitalising on the good aspects of older products... As for the sound compared to other home use headphones, I would also agree to an extent, but I enjoy the fact the z1k doesn't do anything particularly bad for a mid-high end headphone, and has really nice build quality to boot. It really grates me to find some of the more popular cans really lacking in one of the three (bass, mids, and treble). I'm willing to give the Sony IEM's a shot by selling the z1k, isolation is not an issue for me, I'm just after some good no fuss (with amps or dacs) sound while I work.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ascii on Wed, 14 September 2011, 10:13:09
Well, here's my current portable setup.

From the ears out:  JH13 custom IEM's -> Whiplash audio twisted silver wire IEM cable -> Ray Samuels The Shadow amp -> Whiplash twisted silver Line out dock cable -> iPod touch.  Kept together by the power of Velcro.  This is my current "daily rig."  Fits in a pocket and is great for using at home, the office, and everywhere in between.

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6189/6147218034_529fb5a259_z.jpg) (http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6084/6146667819_581ec453bf_z.jpg)

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6078/6146667279_2b7ab9e0b6_z.jpg) (http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6164/6146670705_392d995558_z.jpg)

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6086/6147218394_bca6d6bbc6_z.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Wed, 14 September 2011, 15:39:07
lol cables
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ascii on Wed, 14 September 2011, 15:59:43
Quote from: phillip;416159
lol cables
Don't get me wrong, I'm not a proponent of snake oil cables.  I went with aftermarket cables because I kept killing the OEM cables every 3-6 months.  If anything, this cable is longer, beefier, and theoretically better built than stock.

Is there a sound difference?  It sure sounds better when neither channel cut out.  Other than that, I haven't done an A/B in a while.  Most of the time people won't notice a much of a sound difference.

The amp inline IS a noticeable improvement over using the regular headphone jack though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 14 September 2011, 16:03:12
I've always been sketchy on cables sounding different. Hell, I doubt I could tell the difference between my 1500 USD W4S DAC-2 and the DAC on my ibasso d10. I never had a chance to go back and forth between the two, but I wouldn't be surprised if I couldn't tell the difference.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ascii on Wed, 14 September 2011, 16:19:42
Quote from: ironman31;416171
I've always been sketchy on cables sounding different. Hell, I doubt I could tell the difference between my 1500 USD W4S DAC-2 and the DAC on my ibasso d10. I never had a chance to go back and forth between the two, but I wouldn't be surprised if I couldn't tell the difference.
Probably not.  If I use my RSA Predator in amp only mode, it sounds just about identical to the Shadow amp pictured (probably uses the same nail polished TI chips).  The DAC feature though... makes using headphones with a computer doable w/o noise.  I doubt I'd be able to tell a difference between the Predator DAC and MOTU Traveler I've got at home

While different cables don't sound very (if any) different from each other, the feel of the cable itself can make a difference when you're using it all day every day.

Cables = personal preference.  As long as they let the electrons pass freely and you like the results, they're going to work well.

DAC = the fact that it's there is the important part.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 14 September 2011, 16:26:27
Quote from: ascii;416181
Probably not.  If I use my RSA Predator in amp only mode, it sounds just about identical to the Shadow amp pictured (probably uses the same nail polished TI chips).  The DAC feature though... makes using headphones with a computer doable w/o noise.  I doubt I'd be able to tell a difference between the Predator DAC and MOTU Traveler I've got at home

While different cables don't sound very (if any) different from each other, the feel of the cable itself can make a difference when you're using it all day every day.

Cables = personal preference.  As long as they let the electrons pass freely and you like the results, they're going to work well.

DAC = the fact that it's there is the important part.


I just need to get a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter for my LCD-2's so I can go between the two. I'll have someone else switch them back and forth (or not at all) between the two, and see if I can hear a difference. If not, then I guess I spent 1500 dollars on a very nicely built box with a lot of inputs on the back, lol.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ascii on Wed, 14 September 2011, 16:35:36
LOL, there you go.  I need to get an 1/8" -> 1/4" adapter to try these with the MOTU.  Lots of inputs = lots of options and not outgrowing the nicely built box as quickly.

Regarding headphones... I either have to do big over the ear (not good for portable) or custom IEM's.  All universal IEM's were extremely uncomfortable to me.  Didn't realize why until after sending JHA some ear impressions.  Apparently my ears are built a bit weird and the canal flattens a bit in a bend.  Customs are the only IEM's that I can wear for more than 5-10 minutes at a time.  Worth the time and $ investment, IMHO.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 14 September 2011, 16:43:00
Quote from: ascii;416192
LOL, there you go.  I need to get an 1/8" -> 1/4" adapter to try these with the MOTU.  Lots of inputs = lots of options and not outgrowing the nicely built box as quickly.

Regarding headphones... I either have to do big over the ear (not good for portable) or custom IEM's.  All universal IEM's were extremely uncomfortable to me.  Didn't realize why until after sending JHA some ear impressions.  Apparently my ears are built a bit weird and the canal flattens a bit in a bend.  Customs are the only IEM's that I can wear for more than 5-10 minutes at a time.  Worth the time and $ investment, IMHO.

Those will be my next audio purchase. Not sure how long from now, but I would really like something I can listen to in a library and still have them sound great. My sr60's don't really fit well in that category, lol.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ascii on Wed, 14 September 2011, 19:45:06
Quote from: ironman31;416195
Those will be my next audio purchase. Not sure how long from now, but I would really like something I can listen to in a library and still have them sound great. My sr60's don't really fit well in that category, lol.
HA, yeah, my re-cabled SR125's and first/second run AKG K701's are no good for wearing at work/in public.  If you're looking for custom IEM's and are located in FL, I'd recommend a day trip to JHA to have them do the fitting and meet the people who make them.  They're great people and you'll have a good conversation with them :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 14 September 2011, 19:59:19
Where is JHA located?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ascii on Wed, 14 September 2011, 21:41:42
Quote from: ironman31;416269
Where is JHA located?
2517 East Semoran Blvd.
Apopka, FL 32703
866/485/9111
jhaudio.com
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillip on Thu, 15 September 2011, 09:33:02
not headphone related, just audio related...

I decided to pull an old denon poa-2400a amp out of my closet the day before yesterday and use it for my movie/console setup.  I also wanted to get the center speaker to the top shelf rather than being stuck so low in the middle.  Unfortunately that means I had to put my tv on top of it.  I don't really like having the tv up there, so I need to get a new stand soon that has a proper mount and room for everything else.

(http://i.imgur.com/rtvVQ.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dorkvader on Fri, 16 September 2011, 00:03:46
Quote from: NamelessPFG;415146
Same driver, much less cost? Now I'm really interested, and no, I'm not averse to modding. (If anything, it's said that the weakest part of the Fostex orthos is NOT the driver, but the enclosure. Now, if you've got $500 to spend, you could get some Thunderpants, which use those very same drivers from the look of it...but the enclosure is said to be that much better as far as sound quality goes. Or maybe people just like the wood look. Who knows?)

And as for the Stax SR-007/Omega 2 pads, I do remember hearing about someone sticking those on a set of SR-X/MK3s and saying the sound quality improved noticeably in addition to comfort. Too bad they're so expensive...but I suppose it's expected when it's an accessory for what is usually a $2,500 headphone.

I'd check if I were you, but I believe they are the same. Note that you'll get the "silver" painted metal parts on the other ones, though.

Also, on the thunderpants, from what I've read part of the sound comes from the wood, and more "solid" construction, but the bulk comes from the damping. Apparently playing with that will allow you to really bring out the thunder. Of course, the thunderpants are almost always closed or "really close", so that will greatly affect the sound.

Me, I'd love to turn some wood cups on a lathe and build one, but I haven't the time, money, effort, etc. at the moment.

Other pads include the sony SA5000 pads (which are like $55 each, also expensive) and pads from some Shure cans, that I do want to try.

I also plan to add a flexible leather strap under the headband to make a double headband. The adjusters stay almost all the way down always on my small head, so there's plenty of room, and I expect it to greatly increase comfort. Not that it needs it, though.

I still hate my SR225i's though. I'll probably wait until I have a good amp/DAC ready, then I might sell them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hitch22 on Sat, 17 September 2011, 15:44:52
New range of Corsair gaming headphones coming soon. Link (http://www.corsair.com/vengeance-gaming/vengeance-gaming-headsets.html)

Personally, I'm interested in the 1300 model because every set of USB headphones I've every tried has had awful sound quality.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Sat, 17 September 2011, 16:18:40
Quote from: Hitch22;417826
New range of Corsair gaming headphones coming soon. Link (http://www.corsair.com/vengeance-gaming/vengeance-gaming-headsets.html)

Personally, I'm interested in the 1300 model because every set of USB headphones I've every tried has had awful sound quality.

What, the HS1 & G35 too?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hitch22 on Sat, 17 September 2011, 16:29:54
Quote
What, the HS1 & G35 too?

I bought a set of HS1 USB for my old man and they sound pretty bad to me. Really tinny sounding. I can't speak to the G35's, never tried them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dorkvader on Tue, 20 September 2011, 19:58:37
I'm told Electrostats make good gaming headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 21 September 2011, 06:52:50
What is a good "gaming" headphone?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Wed, 21 September 2011, 12:36:25
Quote from: ironman31;419486
What is a good "gaming" headphone?

IMO, one which does sound positioning well when working alongside Dolby Headphone or similar HRTF, and offers sufficient audio performance to allow you to make out all the game sounds as well as voices on top, alongside a tonal character that enhances immersion in gaming.

A lot of people equate a wide soundstage (i.e. a very distinct left-right separation of the stereo soundfield) with superior gaming attributes, but I disagree. In fact, the stereo, analog headphones I rate most for gaming, the closed Ultrasones equipped with S-Logic, have a distinctly compacted soundstage but with the ability to easier discern sweeping movements across the stereo and HRTF soundfield.

The Ultrasone Edition 8 is overkill (although in my possession where there is no such thing as overkill, they were my subway beaters until earlier this year) but it's the flagship example of a headphone with an oddly compacted, but somewhat more holographic representation of the stereo soundfield in stereo or when used with Dolby. Lesser closed Ultrasones will deliver much of the same gaming performance though.

Personally though, I stop at the diminishing returns level for PC gaming use and value usability just as much as sonic suitability, especially as I prefer headsets as opposed to headphones - since desk mics and clip-ons either get in the way, or are crud. Which is why you'll find me gaming on a Logitech G35.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Battou62 on Thu, 22 September 2011, 10:59:42
I picked up a pair of Beyer DT 770 Pro's a few weeks ago off of Ebay for cheap. I have them paired up with a Audio-gd Sparrow. Its seriously overkill for gaming, but really adds to the immersion. Listening to music on the other hand is a very enjoyable experience.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hcry4 on Thu, 22 September 2011, 11:23:26
I really like my 770s, too. A very good pair of closed headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Thu, 22 September 2011, 16:46:08
Quote from: dorkvader;419320
I'm told Electrostats make good gaming headphones.
My Stax Lambdas work excellently in games with CMSS-3D Headphone and can be worn for hours on end, but spending that kind of money on gaming-only headphones is getting into overkill territory. (Especially since vintage Lambda-series models seem to be getting more expensive over the years.) If you want something that also sounds great in music, though, why not give the electrostatic experience a shot? They may be the last headphones you ever need for home listening, and if you don't like them, they WILL sell.

Quote from: arplod;419598
Quote from: ironman31;419486
What is a good "gaming" headphone?
IMO, one which does sound positioning well when working alongside Dolby Headphone or similar HRTF, and offers sufficient audio performance to allow you to make out all the game sounds as well as voices on top, alongside a tonal character that enhances immersion in gaming.
Pretty much this. You want something that allows you to make out what a sound is and where it came from.

Can't vouch for or against Ultrasone, though; never heard a single model of theirs. (I did think about getting a Pro 900 at one point, just to know what the Ultrasone hype was all about...until I saw that Stax deal.)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suntorytime on Fri, 23 September 2011, 00:56:54
Ultrasone seem very well geared for gaming. I have the HFI-2400 (open model), really good bass and the treble comes out in abundance. The DT770 which I also own do well too. I prefer the ultrasones as their imaging seems to be more accurate. I use either of these for gaming along with my webcam as the mic (easy to setup).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Fri, 23 September 2011, 05:51:36
The only problem is - and this was one of the reasons I got rid of the Edition 8 as the aforementioned beaters - that I don't really find (closed, which is where they put in the most development thus far) Ultrasones all that enjoyable for music in terms of the way they sound, and also in the peculiar, aforementioned gaming-suitable way they deliver the soundstage. They're also certainly less fatiguing to listen to due to the way S-Logic works (and it does work) but I don't have a pair of headphones on my head as often as e.g. a recording engineer, so many of those features I think gets in the way of simple music listening.

The DT770 isn't a bad compromise for music + gaming (although it's not as good as a similarly priced closed Ultrasone for the latter), and we do have the MMX 300 which delivers (although less convenient than the G35 in a couple of areas and the fact that you have to pair it with a generic Dolby Headphone soundcard) headset-wise as well. Which is why I use a couple of those as well as the G35. But I still prefer to game on the G35, while I Skype on the Beyers because of the outstanding mic.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mitchellderp on Tue, 27 September 2011, 16:40:07
I have another audio based question - what are the best reasonably priced earphones? My Sennheiser CX500's just decided to die on me, as I expected seeing as they were about £8. Are there any budget ones that offer great performance?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 27 September 2011, 17:49:21
Quote from: Mitchellderp;422290
I have another audio based question - what are the best reasonably priced earphones? My Sennheiser CX500's just decided to die on me, as I expected seeing as they were about £8. Are there any budget ones that offer great performance?

What do you expect if you buy fakes?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Tue, 27 September 2011, 19:31:43
Why Geekhack, how did you know about my other love?

AKG K701s fed from a Woo Audio 6 SE, with an EML 5U4G rectifier and matched Tung Sol 6SN7 GT driver tubes.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]27446[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]27447[/ATTACH]
(http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/9977/img20100902161857.jpg)
I need more pictures of my headphones I realize. Here's a file photo:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]27448[/ATTACH]
I love them for their clarity and incredibly open soundstage. There is plenty of bass (most will say there isn't) so long as they are being driven properly by a good amp.

Am I doin it rite? Don't mind the 6Gv2, it's sitting in a box in my storage closet now.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zamorph on Tue, 27 September 2011, 20:58:14
Quote from: ironman31;419486
What is a good "gaming" headphone?


g35.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mitchellderp on Wed, 28 September 2011, 10:15:29
Quote from: arplod;422326
What do you expect if you buy fakes?
Amazon.co.uk sell fakes? Well, I'll be damned.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Wed, 28 September 2011, 11:10:13
Quote from: Mitchellderp;422695
Amazon.co.uk sell fakes? Well, I'll be damned.

If it's too cheap to be true, it probably isn't. MSRP was £50 for it, wasn't it? I know people have been caught out by fake ATH-ES7's and CX300's. 500's, I wasn't aware of  but I haven't kept touch.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mitchellderp on Wed, 28 September 2011, 13:19:55
Fake Filcos? Where?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hcry4 on Wed, 28 September 2011, 13:30:30
Quote from: Mitchellderp;422815
Fake Filcos? Where?


Leopolds...? I kid. I kid.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mitchellderp on Wed, 28 September 2011, 14:26:06
Quote from: hcry4;422824
Leopolds...? I kid. I kid.

What you did there - I see it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nar on Wed, 28 September 2011, 15:10:24
Speaking of the PK3. I have the Sunrise AS-Feelings, they sound great and from what I read are comparable to the PK3s at pretty much the same price.
If you happen to live in Canada I'd recommend them over the PK3, solely because you get to pay cheap national shipping rather than international shipping and having to deal with customs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ekaros on Thu, 29 September 2011, 04:37:27
I have been looking for replacement pads for my Sennheiser HD433, but they cost 12$ for two flat circular pieces of foam with hole in midlle. Too much for me. Have to wish for a new pair for christmas.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Thu, 29 September 2011, 05:00:08
Quote from: ripster;422749
Fake Sennys?  I've seen lots of Fake Filcos lately but not Sennys.  They aren't that spendy.


Yeah - there was a big run on fake CX300's.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: williamjoseph on Sat, 01 October 2011, 00:36:13
Gee, if it wasnt for geekhack, i wouldnt be collecting keyboards and typewriters. Now i am starting to learn about head-fi.......
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tetsuma on Sat, 01 October 2011, 01:14:04
Quote from: williamjoseph;424464
Gee, if it wasnt for geekhack, i wouldnt be collecting keyboards and typewriters. Now i am starting to learn about head-fi.......

Take the trite on that site with a bag of salt though. Also, never buy into cables sounding different and FoTM equipment. Some good posters there, lot of sensationalist's howling too.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tetsuma on Sat, 01 October 2011, 01:26:14
Quote from: Ragnorock;422370
Why Geekhack, how did you know about my other love?

AKG K701s fed from a Woo Audio 6 SE, with an EML 5U4G rectifier and matched Tung Sol 6SN7 GT driver tubes.

(Attachment) 27446[/ATTACH]
(Attachment) 27447[/ATTACH]
Show Image
(http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/9977/img20100902161857.jpg)

I need more pictures of my headphones I realize. Here's a file photo:
(Attachment) 27448[/ATTACH]
I love them for their clarity and incredibly open soundstage. There is plenty of bass (most will say there isn't) so long as they are being driven properly by a good amp.

Am I doin it rite? Don't mind the 6Gv2, it's sitting in a box in my storage closet now.

Benchmark dac1, Heed Can amp, k701s here. How're you liking the woo 6? I was considering it as an upgrade to my can amp, but am tossing up just biting the bullet and getting a phonitor. Either that, or something solid state around $600.
Probably move onto LCD2 after that.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Sat, 01 October 2011, 05:43:51
Quote from: Tetsuma;424479
Take the trite on that site with a bag of salt though. Also, never buy into cables sounding different and FoTM equipment. Some good posters there, lot of sensationalist's howling too.

Ironically for an audio site the SNR is incredibly low :whistle:

But then, after you gain some experience and don't consider the 'holy grail' purchases in that field a lot of money, most even enthusiast sites tend to be that way for me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dorkvader on Sun, 02 October 2011, 21:50:47
Quote from: Tetsuma;424480
Benchmark dac1, Heed Can amp, k701s here. How're you liking the woo 6? I was considering it as an upgrade to my can amp, but am tossing up just biting the bullet and getting a phonitor. Either that, or something solid state around $600.
Probably move onto LCD2 after that.
The Beta22 is supposed to be pretty good, and you can probably build one for $600. (~$110*3 + 120 (sigma22) +100 (transfromer)+ ?DIY case?) I'm more of a DIY-fan anyway. I'll probably DIY a nice keyboard sometime.

I considered getting the AKG as my first 'phone, but I started with the AD900, and really enjoy it. There may bass quantity, but the quality is there. I'm not much of a basshead anyway.

Once I get a real job, I'll probably get some nice Planar-magnetic headphones. LCD-2 is at the top of the list.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pony on Wed, 05 October 2011, 23:16:11
I just got a pair of ATH-AD700.  Wow, wish I would have tried these years ago, woulda saved alot of money (much better than Beats by Dre Studio and Razer Barracudas I wasted money on).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LuvULongTime on Tue, 25 October 2011, 19:06:07
For DIYers looking for closed cans the Fostex planar magnetic T50RPs are a great value.  They can be easily modded to hang with the big boys.  I was at a head-fi meet recently and had a chance to sample the LCD-3 and SR-009s.  I walked away completely satisfied with my $75 cans.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 25 October 2011, 19:27:29
Quote from: LuvULongTime;439308
For DIYers looking for closed cans the Fostex planar magnetic T50RPs are a great value.  They can be easily modded to hang with the big boys.  I was at a head-fi meet recently and had a chance to sample the LCD-3 and SR-009s.  I walked away completely satisfied with my $75 cans.

Did you listen to Audez'e's 100k speakers?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LuvULongTime on Thu, 27 October 2011, 02:12:26
Quote from: ironman31;439341
Did you listen to Audez'e's 100k speakers?


It was headphones only.  Audeze brought their LCD-3s and a Red Wine Audio amp.  100k speakers, wow.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Thu, 27 October 2011, 07:02:59
Quote from: LuvULongTime;440337
It was headphones only.  Audeze brought their LCD-3s and a Red Wine Audio amp.  100k speakers, wow.

Yeah, I'm pretty sure they were showing off those, their near-field monitors, and their mic at the RMAF.

http://www.theaudiobeat.com/rmaf2011/rmaf2011_audeze.htm
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RickyJ on Fri, 28 October 2011, 23:15:25
There's some nice setups in this thread!

About a month ago I started looking into upgrading my headphones (Sennheiser HD228, ~2 years old), and foolishly bought a Corsair HS1A headset (online reviews were good...) to use while occasionally playing co-op games with friends.  The Corsair headset was only $40 during an in-store sale at NCIX so I'm not overly broken up over the complete lack of bass, but it's still an unpleasant surprise.  I do watch TV shows and movies on my PC right now, until I get my own place again where I can set up my plasma and Yamaha 5.1 system.  So I've been primarily looking into gaming headphones/headset that will work great for TV/movies as well.  Previously for co-op games I've plugged my Xbox 360 controller and headset into my PC just to use the mic, but it doesn't happen often enough for me to sacrifice sound quality for a built-in mic.

It's happened a few times now where I'll get deeper into headphone/DAC/amp research, then have to remind myself what I'm really going to be using it all for.  So I think I've found a way to accommodate my wants/needs while still using modular building blocks.  NCIX has the Creative X-Fi Titanium HD card with headphone amp good for 330Ω cans, for $130cdn after instant rebate.  This card will do CMSS-3D virtual surround over the optical-out connection, so I can upgrade to a better DAC+amp at a later date and still get the benefits for gaming.  For headphones, a local music store has Beyer Dynamic DT990Pro 250Ω for $180, sitting on the shelf.  They also have the DT770Pro for the same price, but the comparisons I'm seeing for gaming puts the 990Pro in the lead.

Any feedback is definitely welcome!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Sat, 29 October 2011, 04:27:59
Right now im running Sony MDR-V6's because I got them at a low price (for the price I dont think that you can beat them) but after watching Dave Rat - The Mighty Headphone Quest (http://tinyurl.com/3knmg65) I started looking at a pair of Denon AH-D2000's. I even tried them in person but until recently I couldnt find a good enough price to buy and now it looks like I missed out on the deal on buy.com.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Kick on Sat, 29 October 2011, 04:35:53
For those wondering about headphones for gaming, you're probably better off with open backed headphones. The ad700 would be highly recommended by most/all gamers that have actually tried them. Definitely get those. Sounstage is amazing but because they're open backed, the bass is lacking. But then again, I'd like my bass to be limited if I'm gaming. How're you going to hear footsteps when an explosion occurs right next to you :p

For music it's pretty damn good too but again. Do not expect bass for you dubstep listeners
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Sat, 29 October 2011, 07:16:52
Quote from: Kick;441690
For those wondering about headphones for gaming, you're probably better off with open backed headphones. The ad700 would be highly recommended by most/all gamers that have actually tried them. Definitely get those. Sounstage is amazing but because they're open backed, the bass is lacking. But then again, I'd like my bass to be limited if I'm gaming. How're you going to hear footsteps when an explosion occurs right next to you :p

For music it's pretty damn good too but again. Do not expect bass for you dubstep listeners

I actually don't mind the bass in headphones such as the Grado sr60i's. Many of the dubstep recordings aren't very good anyways, so if the headphone can play that frequency, then it's good enough. I think the grado's bass is nice and tight, even if it is a little lacking. And that's coming from someone who normally listens to a pair of LCD-2's, who's bass response is ridonkulous.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Sat, 29 October 2011, 09:05:40
Quote from: RickyJ;441603
It's happened a few times now where I'll get deeper into headphone/DAC/amp research, then have to remind myself what I'm really going to be using it all for.  So I think I've found a way to accommodate my wants/needs while still using modular building blocks.  NCIX has the Creative X-Fi Titanium HD card with headphone amp good for 330Ω cans, for $130cdn after instant rebate.  This card will do CMSS-3D virtual surround over the optical-out connection, so I can upgrade to a better DAC+amp at a later date and still get the benefits for gaming.  For headphones, a local music store has Beyer Dynamic DT990Pro 250Ω for $180, sitting on the shelf.  They also have the DT770Pro for the same price, but the comparisons I'm seeing for gaming puts the 990Pro in the lead.

Any feedback is definitely welcome!


I use my DT990pro as my movie/gaming can. I use it over my T1 and DT880/600 from the same family. The bass really add some oomph to explosions. It also has a bigger sense of space than DT880. Though, if you're sensitive to treble, you may want to felt mod it (add a 1.5mm thick felt in front of the driver like DT880). If bass is too much, add a piece of felt behind the driver at the vent. These also kick the crap out of Grados as low volume listening cans. I like these for acoustics guitars, electronica, and sometimes orchestras as it brings out the rumble of double bass. It is an irreplaceable can in my collection. DT990 Premium is tooooo close in performance to pay extra for, though you can sometimes find them for sale for not much over 200.
Don't bother with X-Fi. CMSS3D sounds like ass. I'd get a Xonar ST with low latency drivers over the creative.

Quote from: Kick;441690
The ad700 would be highly recommended by most/all gamers that have actually tried them.

I don't like them one bit. Bad bass extension and a bit one note bass, like most AT I've heard.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RickyJ on Sat, 29 October 2011, 11:08:38
Thanks for the feedback laffindude.  Good to know it's easy to tone down the one complaint I've heard of the 990Pros.  I've seen another reference to CMSS-3D sounding muddy, I suppose the reviewer comparisons between CMSS-3D and DH are focused 100% on competitive gaming.  I play 90% single player FPS/RPG and 10% co-op multiplayer with friends, so it would just be nice to hear where the enemies are instead of guessing, without sacrificing sound quality.

My only PCI slot right now is between my SLI'd GTX285's, which would make for a noisy environment for a sound card, no?  I've got a PCI-e 4x slot on top, which I was hoping would be a better environment for the sound card.  From what I've gathered, the only differences between the Asus STX and ST are: PCI vs PCI-e, ST has header for 7.1 analog breakout board, ST has better clock circuit for lower jitter.  Is it worth paying the extra $20 and putting the card between two GPUs for lower jitter?

Thanks,
Rick

edit: Can the Asus cards output the virtual surround modified signal over a digital connection like the Creative one I've been looking at?  That would make it easier to add a better DAC+amp later and keep the surround.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Sat, 29 October 2011, 11:52:00
In another life when I was a competitive gamer, I hated the extra processing done on by the sound card. None of the "virtual surround" sounds correct, and straight up stereo had the best sound positioning for me. Very subjective so take that with a pound of salt. Some people need to have the crossfeed type sound to help with positioning.
Xonar can do virtual surround if that is what you want (not sure on the digital output though). I don't know how it sounds compared to Creative solutions though. Like I said, I just use stereo (I use 2.0 monitors as well). I don't think the better clocks are reason enough to get the PCI version over the STX. Don't read too much into what headfi thinks. They all flocked to the Asus after the Creative debacle. Now they claim Asus sucks after a few years after crowning it as the best sound card. Just get something you can afford and be happy. You don't need the gimmicks for spacial positioning. The DAC in the Asus is decent, and the drives DT990 well enough. DT990 is a bit more picky about amps. They sound a bit too sharp with under powered amps, with loose uncontrolled bass.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Sat, 29 October 2011, 11:59:52
Personally for PC gaming im waiting for Creative's New DAC (http://tinyurl.com/6yc4a8m). For everything else I use a Edirol FA-66.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sun, 30 October 2011, 13:44:30
Quote from: laffindude;441748
Don't bother with X-Fi. CMSS3D sounds like ass.
I wouldn't use it for music, but for gaming, the imaging is leagues ahead of stereo for me.

Note that I still play a lot of older games that use DirectSound3D or OpenAL. In these games, CMSS-3D Headphone doesn't make the foolish step of emulating a speaker system; instead, it directly processes every virtual sound source for a more proper binaural effect. You even get height cues (which are sorely missing in newer games that use XAudio2 or FMOD because they pre-mix everything to 7.1 at most and stereo at least before it hits the sound driver)! (And on top of this, some of those games use EAX 3/4/5, so the X-Fi DSP is still needed for that.)

One major example that comes to mind is Unreal Tournament (which uses OpenAL with the help of an Old Unreal patch; UT 2004 uses OpenAL by default). In stereo, the sounds are clear, but all jammed right next to my ears. I don't have a clear image of exactly what sounds are coming from where. I keep flicking CMSS-3D Headphone on and off to compare, but I still get the same issue with plain stereo.

As you say, though, it's very subjective. At least it's optional and not forced on anyone; toggle to taste. (It doesn't help that you can't get a personalized HRTF on the more affordable binaural surround filters; for that, you'd need a $3,000+ Smyth Realiser and a chance to record a good home theater system. In the end, it's still emulated 7.1 at most, not a true 3D sound field...if only we could have it all.)

Now, I won't get into the usual CMSS-3D Headphone vs. Dolby Headphone or X-Fi (Creative, some Auzentech) vs. C-Media (Asus, HT Omega, most Auzentech) cards, only because I haven't owned a C-Media card with Dolby Headphone and don't intend to buy one any time soon. Note that I actually rather loathe Creative as a corporation, but I don't have much choice in the matter if I want my older games to sound as the developers intended (with EAX). Maybe things would be different if Aureal had survived...

Quote from: RickyJ;441796
Can the Asus cards output the virtual surround modified signal over a digital connection like the Creative one I've been looking at?  That would make it easier to add a better DAC+amp later and keep the surround.
I cannot confirm this directly, but word on Head-Fi is that Xonar cards cannot output Dolby Headphone-processed two-channel over S/PDIF, while X-Fi cards can output CMSS-3D Headphone-processed audio over S/PDIF. That would be a shame if Asus really did impose such a limitation.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Mon, 31 October 2011, 16:52:04
I liked CMSS. Until I used Dolby Headphone on the G35.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 01 November 2011, 20:43:28
I'm not going to say which is better until I have the chance to give Dolby Headphone a chance in games, and I don't have the money for an Astro Mixamp right now. (My cards have Dolby Digital Live, so I don't have to worry about properly feeding it with S/PDIF.) The comparable Turtle Beach Ear Force DSS is said to be more prone to hiss, and the JVC/Victor SU-DH1 isn't a common find these days (plus the JVC version is only battery-powered). I don't know of any other external DSPs that offer Dolby Headphone processing on an AC-3/Dolby Digital-encoded S/PDIF signal.

On top of that, I don't have much incentive to buy one other than review purposes and use with my old Xboxes. I'm quite content with my audio setup for gaming as it is; the main "upgrade" I'm thinking of would really be more of a consolidation of that receiver and transformer box into a dedicated amp so as to free up desk space.

If only I knew someone with a Mixamp that I could borrow for a short while...that would help a lot. As it stands, though, I generally don't get the chance to review anything without buying it first.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 01 November 2011, 21:01:57
There is I guess also the element of headphone matching. When the codec is built into the phone, you (as the manufacturer) know - literally - what you're getting into.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 01 November 2011, 22:47:20
So they can tune the G35's sound characteristics to Dolby Headphone (or, perhaps, the other way around)? Makes sense.

Still, something just unnerves me about USB headsets like that. I'd rather have the DAC/DSP and the actual headphone/headset separated. On the other hand, others might like that plug-and-play convenience (unless the G35 needs drivers for full functionality).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Wed, 02 November 2011, 05:01:56
Quote from: NamelessPFG;443837
So they can tune the G35's sound characteristics to Dolby Headphone (or, perhaps, the other way around)? Makes sense.

Still, something just unnerves me about USB headsets like that. I'd rather have the DAC/DSP and the actual headphone/headset separated. On the other hand, others might like that plug-and-play convenience (unless the G35 needs drivers for full functionality).

It's not like it has to be your only headphone or that you can't plug in another audio interface at the same time, is it?

(and yes, it needs drivers of course)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Wed, 02 November 2011, 06:52:05
Quote from: arplod;443942
It's not like it has to be your only headphone or that you can't plug in another audio interface at the same time, is it?

(and yes, it needs drivers of course)
I'm not that absolutist, but in all likeliness, I'd only use it on my notebook, which isn't that much of a gaming computer to begin with (damn Intel GMA graphics that are practically the only option for convertibles).

Why not the desktop? I bought those X-Fi cards for a reason. CMSS-3D Headphone and general audio quality improvements aside, there's also the matter of EAX 3/4/5 support, and I still play my fair share of older games that use them. Not having it on wouldn't be as the game developer intended for it to sound. (But now that games over the past few years have taken the software audio engine route, it's less important to a lot of people. I just wish the software audio engines in question had some binaural options to go along with the typical stereo and surround loudspeaker configurations.)

Then there's the matter of enjoying my Stax setup too much, even for gaming. I'll be highly surprised if anything can top the Lambda in terms of comfort.

I mentioned the subject of drivers because some USB headsets are touted as being driver-free, which could be a selling point to those who use their headset amongst many different computers, I suppose. It wouldn't be a deal-breaker if the G35 needed drivers to function properly, though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Wed, 02 November 2011, 11:24:44
It really depends on what your usage mode is. In your case - i.e. where you're seemingly at right now, in intermediate audio enthusiast and player of older games mode - it probably makes more sense to be where you're at.

It's just what when I game, I just like to get into it straight away without a lot of fuss. Also I've used the gamut of configurations (e.g. combining X-Fis with pro soundcards so that the gaming audio is routed through the pro card, and music audio comes direct from the pro card so I can use output switching on the pro card to route how and where the audio goes) and I know what works for me and what doesn't.

For gaming, I want a single thing that's ready to go the moment I put them on. I put on the G35, swing the mic down (turning it on), slide Dolby switch up or down depending on whether the particular game works better in stereo or surround, adjust the audio (and I can do this all from the left earcup) and start playing. Audio quality is absolutely gaming-suitable, and also perfectly acceptable for all-round listening though it's not at e.g. DT770 levels of capability (but then you can't really expect that in a <$100 headphone, let alone a headset).

If I want to 'actually listen' then the rest of the gear comes out and I switch outputs - but if I'm just surfing around Zune Pass for example after a gaming session, I'll probably keep the 35's on, just turn surround off.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tsangan on Fri, 04 November 2011, 00:43:43
Anyone have experience with AIAIAI TMA-1? Looking for a new pair of headphones and these caught my eye, read a bunch of reviews and they all gave it a pretty good review overall, anyone on here ever try on a pair?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Striketh on Fri, 04 November 2011, 01:29:06
I have a pair of Denon D7000's, a custom built amp, and I'm running it through a Creative Titanium X-FI soundcard. I spent about $1,200 on everything and love it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 04 November 2011, 02:06:54
tsangan:
depends on what you want to use it for. My 30 minute impression is... I'll keep my HD25-1 as portable. Less punch, muddier mids, recessed treble. IMO it is just another FotM can at headfi.
Your head don't go bopping like you would on a HD25. IMO if the can can't do that, rest would be moot, no matter the sound quality.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Fri, 04 November 2011, 09:04:49
Quote from: Striketh;445309
I have a pair of Denon D7000's, a custom built amp, and I'm running it through a Creative Titanium X-FI soundcard. I spent about $1,200 on everything and love it.
Why did you oend up going with the 7000's? Ive read that the internals are the same at the 2000's.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funkymeeba on Fri, 04 November 2011, 09:32:43
I have a pair of Ultrasone HFI-450 headphones. They're far from the finest, but are certainly quite nice for what I need them for. I'm one of the seemingly few who find them comfortable for long periods.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eugenius on Sat, 26 November 2011, 09:35:28
Currently I have a balanced Grado HF2, a Beyerdynamic MMX300 Manufaktur headset, a CEC HD53N balanced amplifier, a DACport portable dac/amp, a Headroom Desktop Balanced DAC/AMP and a custom modded multibit Assemblage DAC. Everything except the Assemblage and the DACport is for sale. :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Sat, 26 November 2011, 23:25:53
I was wondering if anyone had any info on these http://tinyurl.com/7amddgv .
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Sun, 27 November 2011, 04:59:21
It says DT770 Pro with added microphone. So it's a closed headphone with good sound and powerful bass. The microphone is apparently studio quality, but I've never used one of these.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Sun, 27 November 2011, 05:29:20
Well i know what it says didnt know if anyone had anymore info with at least the brand.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Sun, 27 November 2011, 07:38:43
I love the general sound signature of Beyers. The DT770/880/990 (they have the same driver) trio do tend to have a treble peak at ~8.5khz. If you listen to bad recordings with hot treble, they tend to get a bit annoying. There are several versions of DT770, and some are bassier than the others. 250ohm one is middle of the road. Though, i prefer HD25-1 for closed cans over DT770.

You didn't say what you want the headphones for, so no recommendations. Also, the condenser microphone uses mini-XLR and phantom power. It is not really something for gamers.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: teraflame on Sun, 27 November 2011, 22:54:36
I just bought UM3x removable cable for 25% off (final price about $300). Very excited to get it, I tried a couple years ago and loved it. Using regular earbuds has become torturous now.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 28 November 2011, 00:49:57
Quote from: laffindude;459523
I love the general sound signature of Beyers. The DT770/880/990 (they have the same driver) trio do tend to have a treble peak at ~8.5khz. If you listen to bad recordings with hot treble, they tend to get a bit annoying. There are several versions of DT770, and some are bassier than the others. 250ohm one is middle of the road. Though, i prefer HD25-1 for closed cans over DT770.

You didn't say what you want the headphones for, so no recommendations. Also, the condenser microphone uses mini-XLR and phantom power. It is not really something for gamers.

Lol yea it going to be plugged into my Roland Edirol FA-66
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slueth on Mon, 28 November 2011, 02:31:20
Not really a headphone but I got a Ultimate Ears TripleFi 10 Noise Isolating Earphone.  Does anyone have it?  It is coming in the mail.
Wow these sound awesome, I like them a lot more then my AKG 702s :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RickyJ on Wed, 30 November 2011, 22:08:06
I got my Fiio E10 DAC/amp on Monday, I pre-ordered it from the 2nd build batch.  I'm using my crappy Corsair headset until Christmas and this little E10 really woke them up, I can actually hear bass notes now.  Music sounds like music now too, even in Skyrim!  When I max the volume I get zero hiss through my 32 ohm Corsairs, which is something I'm really not used to.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zamorph on Wed, 30 November 2011, 23:07:16
Can anyone point out a few good sets of earbuds and headphones.
Heard good things about um3x, Sennheiser HD595, akg k 701, grado sr325
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slueth on Wed, 30 November 2011, 23:33:30
AKG 702 is awesome for headphones and I will now recommend Ultimate ears triple fi 10 earphones.  Both are amazing.  AKG needs some oomph with a DAC/amp though or it will sound not as good.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 01 December 2011, 17:04:43
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: phillyosophy on Sat, 03 December 2011, 13:53:58
ATH M50 for indoor use, Fisher Audio Eterna for outdoor/on-the-go use. Fiio E7 for just that little extra kick in sound :)

Currently going through alot of headsets, to find a good and comfortable one :) Had so far, various razer's' (luckily borrowed from friends, none good, stay clear), the steelseries siberia v2 (comfy and all right, lovely colours too), trying out in-ears headsets; not for the iphone/mobile kind, the ones that actually come with a splitter for mic and speaker i/o.

I wear glasses, thick framed ones too. The biggest problem I have is after awhile, the back of my ears hurt from the headset pressing down on to my ears, on to my glasses frame.

Next to try: Steel Series in ears. I have a Tte one at the moment, not bad but the mic can be improved.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: elogical on Sat, 03 December 2011, 15:26:23
Quote from: Zamorph;461722
Can anyone point out a few good sets of earbuds and headphones.
Heard good things about um3x, Sennheiser HD595, akg k 701, grado sr325


The only ones that I have of those are the sr325 and they are great, very happy with them, I don't think you'd go wrong with any you listed though. Keep in mind what you want them for though. With open headphones like those they are great for at a desk or at home but they do let some sound out so don't expect to use them at a quiet office setting or out and about. The grado 325 especially are really not made to be portable.

I personally like to have in-ear phones for on the go and open design for at home, not sure if you were suggesting that approach as well or just debating which style you want.

Also many of those are gonna need a headphone amp to take full advantage of them. At least something like the Fiio e7 or similar, doesn't have to be super spendy
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mcsnails on Sat, 03 December 2011, 15:53:56
Does anybody have any advice on sleeving headphone cable with braided sleeve? I just purchased some JVC HA RX700's and was interested in doing this mod.  Particularly, what size sleeving do you think would be necessary?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Sat, 03 December 2011, 18:17:38
Quote from: Zamorph;461722
Can anyone point out a few good sets of earbuds and headphones.
Heard good things about um3x, Sennheiser HD595, akg k 701, grado sr325

I have the Q701 and a pair of SR80's.  While its not really fair to compare those, my impression of their philosophies is that grado colors the sound more.  If you want a warmer sound, go with with grado, and if you want a flatter, more 'real'(I take that term from head-fi) sound, go with the 701/2, or consider one of the lower AKG models that are not geared toward the reference market.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sun, 04 December 2011, 16:03:36
...Wait a minute. Grado "warm"? I thought their frequency graphs suggested otherwise, with a lot of treble emphasis, whereas my understanding of the term "warm" is that it skews a bit more toward emphasized bass and recessed treble. Maybe I have to brush up on all this audiophile jargon some more.

In other headphone-related news, I should have a Stax SR-202 and SRM-212 by the end of the month. Found a deal on those that was too good to resist...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slueth on Sun, 04 December 2011, 16:42:28
a pair of stax, what a boss!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Sun, 04 December 2011, 17:29:27
Quote from: NamelessPFG;464048
...Wait a minute. Grado "warm"? I thought their frequency graphs suggested otherwise, with a lot of treble emphasis, whereas my understanding of the term "warm" is that it skews a bit more toward emphasized bass and recessed treble. Maybe I have to brush up on all this audiophile jargon some more.

That was the case initially, but once I amped my SR80i's their bass REALLY increased.  Now they are definitly what I would call 'warm'.  In a good way though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Mon, 05 December 2011, 04:53:57
I think you're using your Q701 as reference, that is why the midrange on the SR80i sounds warmer. Grados' house sound is a huge mid bass hump for lots of punch (no balls on the real bass side), which colors the mid-range. Though, I refuse to call smiliefaced freq response cans warm.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Tue, 06 December 2011, 07:48:02
hd555 (finally 595 modded), ath-m50s and DT770 pro (250) with a cmoybb. Also looking at getting the denon ahd2000 but can't find them anywhere. :tsk:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: turbocharged on Tue, 06 December 2011, 07:55:17
Quote from: kidchunks;465124
hd555 (finally modded), ath-m50s and DT770 pro (250) with a cmoybb. Also looking at getting the denon ahd2000 but can't find them anywhere. :tsk:

I also have the DT-770 Pro 250's, but with a biosciencegeek cmoy....absolutely love the setup.

I also have a pair of ATH-AD700's and AKG K430's.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Tue, 06 December 2011, 15:26:29
Quote from: NamelessPFG;464048
...Wait a minute. Grado "warm"? I thought their frequency graphs suggested otherwise, with a lot of treble emphasis, whereas my understanding of the term "warm" is that it skews a bit more toward emphasized bass and recessed treble. Maybe I have to brush up on all this audiophile jargon some more.

In other headphone-related news, I should have a Stax SR-202 and SRM-212 by the end of the month. Found a deal on those that was too good to resist...



(http://cdn.head-fi.org/4/48/1000x500px-LL-48741c01_P1030413_resize.jpg)

Compared with

http://graphs.headphone.com/graphCompare.php?graphType=0&graphID[]=353
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Fri, 09 December 2011, 20:16:11
Quote from: flaming_june;465330
*image snipped*
That image helps immensely, thanks. (Though I would think that the low bass would go all the way down to 20-30 Hz, given that's what I'd expect the bassheads to be seeking.)

In other news, some Chinese firm named Edifier actually bought out Stax yesterday. It's stirred up quite a bit of discussion over at Head-Fi. I just hope this doesn't drive up prices of existing equipment too much if it all ends up being the last great electrostatic headphone gear because the new management didn't know what they were doing.

On the flip side, maybe they'll have some decent distribution channels for once.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NimbleRabit on Fri, 09 December 2011, 21:37:14
Quote from: ripster;467522

Low bass is muddy?


Read it like a frequency response graph, the "muddy" is high up over the lowest bass on the frequency range.  It means there is a lot of low bass.

Quote from: ripster;467522

I've never "felt" the bass of Headphones like you can with a real sound system.


I've never really understood the obsession with feeling bass.  I have a great sound system in the living room where I can "feel" the bass, but I honestly think I still prefer my headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Fri, 09 December 2011, 23:02:22
Whats better than speakers or headphones??? Listening to them AT THE SAME TIME!

K, well, it was more of an accident since I had them both on when I turned up the volume the other day.  I did think it was strange that I could feel the bass against my legs from my headphones.  But it sounded great!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cbf123 on Fri, 09 December 2011, 23:45:43
I've actually heard of guys that listen to headphones but with an amp/subwoofer to give the bass oomph.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sat, 10 December 2011, 23:33:48
Quote from: NimbleRabit;467532
I've never really understood the obsession with feeling bass.
Neither do I. It's always "bass this, bass that", even on Head-Fi, like people just want a couple of vibrators on their heads or something. That, or they stuff their cars so full of subwoofers that you can hear it in your house as they drive by the street several feet away.

I can understand wanting good bass reproduction, but bass alone isn't music to me. (It could be that most of my preferred music is unquestionably non-bassy, even if there are low notes.) I want the whole spectrum, as much of it can be captured (bass and treble extension isn't a bad thing), and I want it all done well, within financial reason. I want it done clearly and effortlessly. And most of all...I want to hear where every gunshot, footstep, and explosion is coming from so I can plan accordingly.

As for the headphone + subwoofer idea? I've considered it, but that will have to wait. Even then, it's rather low on my priorities, especially when it could mean irritating everyone else in the house.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Benji on Sun, 11 December 2011, 21:03:28
Portapro. Yes. Best bang 4 buck
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 12 December 2011, 16:52:22
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Tue, 13 December 2011, 00:21:00
I used to listen to headphones with a sub, then I took an arrow to the knee...
Sub's bass is unintegrated with the sound from the headphone. It also sounds a bit slow and delayed. It is fine for movies and games I guess, but music sounds better without the sub. If i want maximum impact, I'd just use my monitors + sub. Even the bass don't integrate so well here, but better than headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Tue, 13 December 2011, 08:51:19
What exactly is happening in skyrim that's making people make all these arrow to the knees joke.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Tue, 13 December 2011, 08:57:51
Quote from: flaming_june;469591
What exactly is happening in skyrim that's making people make all these arrow to the knees joke.

i-took-an-arrow-in-the-knee (http://knowyourmeme.com/memes/i-took-an-arrow-in-the-knee)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 13 December 2011, 15:48:50
Finally got that SR-202 + SRM-212. Pretty much what I expected from the seller's description. Now I don't have to keep this huge receiver on my desk, though I haven't taken it off yet.

The only thing is, I haven't received a replacement headband part yet and probably won't until tomorrow. Worse, it's not obvious how to remove the existing headband part (the fork/"case holder" that holds the earcup in place) without breaking the whole thing. In the meantime, I swapped the baffles and drivers with the SR-Lambda's earcups. (Why didn't I swap headbands instead? They changed the headband design from the Nova series onward...including how they mate to the earcups. The pin sizes and distances are different.)

EDIT: So there's these hollow pins that hold the "case holder" forks in place...and they are a TOTAL PAIN IN THE ASS to try and push out. Everything I've attempted hasn't made the damn thing budge at all. I don't even know if I can displace it without breaking it and escalating the repair cost from a $35 fork to a $150 headband. I was thinking that the newer headbands would hold them in via screws like the vintage ones.

...That is, until I tried one of my screwdrivers with a Torx T6 bit for the hell of it. Worked like a charm. Now I just have to wait for the replacement fork to show up tomorrow, and I can have a complete, functional SR-202 headband...which will make selling the old Stax gear a lot easier.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flaming_june on Tue, 13 December 2011, 17:27:22
Quote from: kidchunks;469597
i-took-an-arrow-in-the-knee (http://knowyourmeme.com/memes/i-took-an-arrow-in-the-knee)

Kind of reminds me of Fallout New Vegas: quantity over quality.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Wed, 14 December 2011, 17:47:11
There, got the headband all fixed up today a replacement part. Now it's complete.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]34995[/ATTACH]

And, yes, that's the set I was using in the background, sans the receiver that fed the SRD-7/SB. I'm glad to have all that desk space free now.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]34996[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Creizai on Sun, 18 December 2011, 19:29:20
Quote from: NamelessPFG;470878
There, got the headband all fixed up today a replacement part. Now it's complete.

(Attachment) 34995[/ATTACH]

And, yes, that's the set I was using in the background, sans the receiver that fed the SRD-7/SB. I'm glad to have all that desk space free now.

(Attachment) 34996[/ATTACH]


crazy I was just doing searches on head-fi and saw your one set for sale.

I'm seriously thinking about picking up that exact setup.. so please tell me how it is.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: inaneframe on Sun, 18 December 2011, 19:41:52
Quote from: flaming_june;470052
Kind of reminds me of Fallout New Vegas: quantity over quality.


Not sure what "quantity" vs. "quality" issue you are talking about with FNV.  Could you elaborate?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sun, 18 December 2011, 21:22:08
Quote from: Creizai;473487
crazy I was just doing searches on head-fi and saw your one set for sale.

I'm seriously thinking about picking up that exact setup.. so please tell me how it is.
Quite nice, actually. There's some weirdness that I noticed with a tone generator that I chalk up to the guy who rebuilt the drivers not doing a perfect job, but as a first set of Stax, it'll definitely be enough to find out if you love the sound or not. (For that matter, it was something I never noticed without the tone generator, and it could have also been the fault of the receiver feeding the SRD-7/SB for all I know.)

Actually, after a few days of listening with the SR-202 + SRM-212, the sound seemed a bit "sterile" and "flat" by comparison, for lack of better words. But then it turned out that using an EQ to bring up the midrange helps a lot...and the normal-bias SR-Lambda, even one that apparently has thicker diaphragms, is quite renowned for its midrange. Voices suddenly sound like there's no longer a veil in front of them.

However, I didn't actually put that set in Head-Fi B/S/T...though it's on eBay right now, with under 24 hours left.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Creizai on Sun, 18 December 2011, 22:18:25
Quote from: NamelessPFG;473547
Quite nice, actually. There's some weirdness that I noticed with a tone generator that I chalk up to the guy who rebuilt the drivers not doing a perfect job, but as a first set of Stax, it'll definitely be enough to find out if you love the sound or not. (For that matter, it was something I never noticed without the tone generator, and it could have also been the fault of the receiver feeding the SRD-7/SB for all I know.)

Actually, after a few days of listening with the SR-202 + SRM-212, the sound seemed a bit "sterile" and "flat" by comparison, for lack of better words. But then it turned out that using an EQ to bring up the midrange helps a lot...and the normal-bias SR-Lambda, even one that apparently has thicker diaphragms, is quite renowned for its midrange. Voices suddenly sound like there's no longer a veil in front of them.

However, I didn't actually put that set in Head-Fi B/S/T...though it's on eBay right now, with under 24 hours left.

that must have been it, saw the ebay link..

Either way I already have some A900's for personal computer/gaming use, but I'm looking to have a separate setup for studying, relaxing and the Stax SR-202 + SRM-212 was perfect price point that I'm looking into that would sound completely different from what I already have and love.  Hard decision though, do I go that route and keep my a900 is prefect for what I use it for now, or upgrade to the WA5000 all together.

gotta say though stax on heads look retro cool awesome ****.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Index on Mon, 19 December 2011, 02:01:34
Hi all,

I'm in the market for a really high quality headset. I am currently looking at Beyerdynamic products, more specifically the DT 297 PV MK II for Phantom Power and the DT 290 MK II. I understand these are not your standard headsets, and I was wondering if I could even use these for PC gaming.

Here'e the product list on Beyerdynamic's website I'm currently looking at.

http://north-america.beyerdynamic.com/shop/hah/headphones-and-headsets/studio-and-stage/headsets-for-live-applications.html
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 19 December 2011, 11:54:15
Quote from: Index;473623
Hi all,

I'm in the market for a really high quality headset. I am currently looking at Beyerdynamic products, more specifically the DT 297 PV MK II for Phantom Power and the DT 290 MK II. I understand these are not your standard headsets, and I was wondering if I could even use these for PC gaming.

Here'e the product list on Beyerdynamic's website I'm currently looking at.

http://north-america.beyerdynamic.com/shop/hah/headphones-and-headsets/studio-and-stage/headsets-for-live-applications.html

I am looking at the 797 PV my self and can use it because of the DAC I have. Unless you have a good dac that supports professional equipment your not going to be able to use most if not all of the professional stuff.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Mon, 19 December 2011, 13:18:25
Quote from: Creizai;473572
that must have been it, saw the ebay link..

Either way I already have some A900's for personal computer/gaming use, but I'm looking to have a separate setup for studying, relaxing and the Stax SR-202 + SRM-212 was perfect price point that I'm looking into that would sound completely different from what I already have and love.  Hard decision though, do I go that route and keep my a900 is prefect for what I use it for now, or upgrade to the WA5000 all together.

gotta say though stax on heads look retro cool awesome ****.
Someone thought they looked like they came out of the Cold War, which wouldn't be off the mark (SR-Lambda debuted in 1979, design's continued with only minor modifications to this day, most concerning the headband/arc). While I can't say I'm very fond of the boxy styling, the sound quality and comfort more than makes up for that.

I haven't tried the closed-back A-series models, but I did have an AD700 at one point, which got sold mostly because the Lambda did everything it was good at better. Almost as comfortable, that's for sure. I'm actually slightly curious as to what the AD900 and AD2000 are like, but when I start getting into that price range, I start thinking "I could buy more Stax for that much!"
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Index on Mon, 19 December 2011, 14:55:43
Quote from: TheProfosist;473816
I am looking at the 797 PV my self and can use it because of the DAC I have. Unless you have a good dac that supports professional equipment your not going to be able to use most if not all of the professional stuff.

What DAC would you recommend? And why do I need a DAC?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 19 December 2011, 15:44:51
Quote from: Index;473934
What DAC would you recommend? And why do I need a DAC?
Idk what to recommended what I do know is that the Edirol FA-66 that I have fit every specification that I wanted and I got one used off ebay at a great price. Well the DAC (Digital to Analogue Converter) is what controls the input and out put of the audio. To output to good quality speakers and headphones you need same quality equipment outputting to them with the correct specifications.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Mon, 19 December 2011, 16:00:37
You want it for the ADC and miniXLR/XLR jack with phantom power. Of course you can just buy a soundcard that do provide phantom power via TRS jack.
It is cheaper just to buy the headphone it is based on and a seperate USB condenser mic.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 19 December 2011, 16:02:47
Quote from: laffindude;473980
You want it for the ADC and miniXLR/XLR jack with phantom power. Of course you can just buy a soundcard that do provide phantom power via TRS jack.
It is cheaper just to buy the headphone it is based on and a seperate USB condenser mic.
Yep but when you already have the equipment like I and others do there is no reason not to look at the 797.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digitalleftovers on Mon, 19 December 2011, 16:11:25
Quote from: TheProfosist;473816
I am looking at the 797 PV my self and can use it because of the DAC I have. Unless you have a good dac that supports professional equipment your not going to be able to use most if not all of the professional stuff.

In the case of the 290 MKII, it says that it has an input impedance of 80ohms.  So, basically, you don't necessarily need a hi-fi head amp, but maybe something like a FiiO E9, or a decent stereo amp should be able to power those.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Mon, 19 December 2011, 16:57:19
Quote from: TheProfosist;473984
Yep but when you already have the equipment like I and others do there is no reason not to look at the 797.


I think I'd prefer to have more freedom in choosing my phones than having to choose from the short list of those that has a mic attached.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 19 December 2011, 17:11:10
Quote from: laffindude;474032
I think I'd prefer to have more freedom in choosing my phones than having to choose from the short list of those that has a mic attached.
Then get a separate mic... I want a headset and the 797 fit the specification I wanted. I dont know if I will like the sound of the headphones as I am used to less on the lower end with my M-Audio BX5a's MDR-V6's and AH-D2000's
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RickyJ on Sun, 25 December 2011, 17:39:55
I'm now rocking a set of Beyer DT990Pro 250Ω phones, which my Fiio E10 is more than happy to power.  The volume didn't even change much between my 32Ω Corsairs and these, I was expecting more of a drop.  They sound excellent so far!

[ATTACH=CONFIG]35924[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: andrewjoy on Fri, 30 December 2011, 04:14:31
Myself i have a set of PC 360 ( its pretty much a set of HD 558 with a mic glued on the side) connected to the Auzentech X-Fi Forte. ( with the default optamp)

frequency response 15-28,000Hz
impedance 50 Ohms
Sound Pressure Level is rated at 112dB.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Fri, 30 December 2011, 14:23:34
Finally got my setup upgraded. Now my setup looks like this:

Creative X-Fi Titanium -> Klipsch Promedia 2.1
Creative X-Fi Titanium -> Blue Jeans Audio Optical -> Audio-GD NFB-2 -> Blue Jeans Audio RCA -> Audio-GD C-2C -> HD650/SR325i/SRH840/MDR-V6

Player setup for headphones playback is Foobar2000 -> Wasapi w/ crossfeed -> out to optical.

Blue Jeans Cable, for you cable believers and non believers makes a truly high end quality cable. What I mean is, for cable believers, it's a great entry level product. For non believers, it's the only cable you should ever buy. The build quality is fantastic and you should never ever need to replace them due to failure. They're just made fantastically.

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/

For those not familiar with Audio_GD, they're a chinese firm. If I understand the history right, they started life by improving upon the Zero DAC/AMP, then progressed into flat out replacing it at a slightly higher cost (but drastically improved audio quality) and finally finished it's domination of the low end space with the sparrow and the fun. Now, they have higher end offerings, the NFB-2 is their highest end single ended dac, and the C-2C is an older variation of their highest end single ended amplifier. In short, what I have is the top end from audio-gd prior to going into a balanced setup, which I doubt I will ever do, although I am sorely tempted to get a C-2 because they look so much nicer.

http://www.audio-gd.com/En%20audio-gd.htm
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RickyJ on Fri, 30 December 2011, 18:30:58
So today I thought I'd try my Beyers in my phone, since I barely had to add any volume with my Fiio. Turns out my Galaxy S2 can drive them alright, louder than I'd listen to them at. They don't sound as amazing as they do on my Fiio, but still pretty good.  I double checked the impedance with my multimeter and confirmed 250 ohm per channel.  Are these 990's just that easy to drive?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Sun, 01 January 2012, 11:52:49
Can reach adequate volume isn't the same as being driven well. They do get acceptably loud on portables, but the bass is a mess as well as shrilly treble. Ohms isn't a good indicator of how loud they'll sound from some input. Sensitivity is a better measurement of that.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Fast_Fingers on Sun, 01 January 2012, 14:52:38
Quote from: laffindude;481466
Can reach adequate volume isn't the same as being driven well. They do get acceptably loud on portables, but the bass is a mess as well as shrilly treble. Ohms isn't a good indicator of how loud they'll sound from some input. Sensitivity is a better measurement of that.

Definitely. If anything, Ohms is a guideline to how powerful you need your amplifier to be before it sounds adequate. AKGs are especially tough on weak amplifiers (K301 Xtra user here).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RickyJ on Sun, 01 January 2012, 15:37:15
That's what I was thinking, enough power for low wave amplitudes, not enough to drive the full wave.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jellowiggler on Sun, 01 January 2012, 18:32:28
I bought Grado SR80s about 6 years ago. They have been awesome. No amp required.  I did have to put some extra padding on the headband.

I paid $160 but they sound like headphones in the 200-250 range and don't need an amp.

I hope they last another 10 years. They sound excellent!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mcsnails on Wed, 04 January 2012, 21:50:14
Just got done modding my jvc HA RX700's that I got for Christmas.  I added some neon blue braided sleeving and some heatshrink to make the ends look all nice and pretty.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]36612[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]36613[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]36614[/ATTACH](sorry for poor quality, they're all compressed cellphone pictures)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: emptyk on Wed, 04 January 2012, 22:52:03
That blue braiding looks sick.

My setup goes like this:  FLAC files > Foobar2000 > Peachtree Audio Decco2 (DAC + Integrated Amp + Headphone output) > Sennheiser HD650

I pretty much listen to music all day at work, and I've finally ripped all of my CDs into lossless FLAC format stored on my PC.  Dig it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SmallFry on Wed, 04 January 2012, 23:00:15
I got some Dr.Dre Beats for Christmas. They are quite bassy (much to my liking). Just my two cents.:smile:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Surly73 on Fri, 06 January 2012, 08:00:35
Shure E4g and Shure SE425-V

Auzentech Forte 7.1 at home.  M-AUDIO Audiophile USB at work.  Various portable devices not worth mentioning.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cheebs on Sun, 08 January 2012, 00:38:11
Beyerdynamic DT231 Galactic

Shure SE215
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jbluzb on Sun, 08 January 2012, 05:28:51
I also own several headphones;

Shure SRH-440
Shure SE - 425
Shure SE - 535
AiAiAi Tracks
AKG K420


Nice to know some are OC on sound quality too.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tomten_alle on Sun, 08 January 2012, 07:16:50
I have a DT770 Pro (80 ohm). They are awesome and look very good. Their response is not really linear, though it fits metal very good. Too bad most music sound like crap anyway, thank you loudness war!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sawedust on Sun, 08 January 2012, 15:01:56
Purchased a pair of Ultrasone HFI-580 cans from Amazon during the Black Friday sales.  Still in the process of burning them in; still a little bit of sibilance here and there.  I love the sound of these headphones, especially when listening to electronica, dubstep, etc.

Chose them from recommendations over at Head-Fi over the SRH-840 and ATH-M50 cans; all three were around the same price at the time of purchase.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Barn on Sun, 08 January 2012, 16:35:26
Bose QuietComfort 3 on ear. Fantastic headphones. Still looking for a decent pair of in-ear buds though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Tue, 10 January 2012, 20:33:13
Can anyone recommend a dac without an amp(budget $200)? I really like my cmoybb and I'm not looking to have it out of the equation(just yet). I was looking at some of the diy kits on Beezar.com (http://beezar.com). Anyone tamper with any of those?

Update:
Wouldn't mind a dac/amp as long as I can bypass the internal amp when needed. Still no luck finding one. :(
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 10 January 2012, 21:51:07
Quote from: kidchunks;487649
Can anyone recommend a dac without an amp(budget $200)? I really like my cmoybb and I'm not looking to have it out of the equation(just yet). I was looking at some of the diy kits on Beezar.com (http://beezar.com). Anyone tamper with any of those?

Update:
Wouldn't mind a dac/amp as long as I can bypass the internal amp when needed. Still no luck finding one. :(

This is a little above your range, but I hear good things about schiit, though I've never tried them. I should really listen to some other rigs, I went all in with mine without listening around (no way of doing so). I probably couldn't even tell a difference between mine and something much cheaper.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 11 January 2012, 07:28:36
Quote from: kidchunks;487649
Can anyone recommend a dac without an amp(budget $200)? I really like my cmoybb and I'm not looking to have it out of the equation(just yet). I was looking at some of the diy kits on Beezar.com (http://beezar.com). Anyone tamper with any of those?

Update:
Wouldn't mind a dac/amp as long as I can bypass the internal amp when needed. Still no luck finding one. :(


Audinst HUD-mx1. So so amp, but ok as DAC. It sounds better than the FUBAR II as a DAC (also in your price range). Both of these have socketed opamps, so you can roll the sound you want, to get better synergy with your cmoy.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Thu, 12 January 2012, 22:38:49
Thanks for the suggestions! I'll take a look at those.

Anyone know how to convert flac to alac and keep the replay/album gain tags intact? I've tried using dbpoweramp with no luck. When I use the dsp effect for replay gain they don't match with that of foobar.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 13 January 2012, 01:15:55
ALAC tagging doesn't really support replaygain. Is there particular reason you want to use ALAC?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Fri, 13 January 2012, 07:19:08
Quote from: laffindude;489300
ALAC tagging doesn't really support replaygain. Is there particular reason you want to use ALAC?


I know ALAC doesn't support replaygain. Using it for my ipod with iTunNorm.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dorkvader on Sun, 15 January 2012, 02:24:01
Quote from: kidchunks;487649
Can anyone recommend a dac without an amp(budget $200)? I really like my cmoybb and I'm not looking to have it out of the equation(just yet). I was looking at some of the diy kits on Beezar.com (http://beezar.com). Anyone tamper with any of those?

Update:
Wouldn't mind a dac/amp as long as I can bypass the internal amp when needed. Still no luck finding one. :(
I'd look into a gamma2 for that budget, You can probably DIY for ~200. (I see $260 for used ones) If you're not into DIY, a professional builder will make you a gamma1 easily for under your budget. There's also a pretty good chance that you can get a gamma2 for under budget built by omitting components (like S/PDIF (optical and coax) out, the Gamma1 DAC (as it'd just pass the I2s to the gamma2's DAC, ASRC upsampling, etc). Tha gamma2 has a S/N ratio of 139 db. Good luck finding that on a similarly/priced commercial product.

Here's the infopage:
http://www.amb.org/audio/gamma2/

About beezar: they're great! I am looking into DIY'ing a grubdac for mp brother, but I may do the skeletondac instead. I've always been a fan of parafeed, and the torpedo looks to be a great amp for ~300.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The_Beast on Sun, 15 January 2012, 09:54:57
I have a set of Audio Technica AD700's I bought mostly for gaming. They work great, I'm knifing more people and getting knifed less
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sun, 15 January 2012, 13:14:26
Why do deals like this never show up whenever I'm looking around and actually have money to spend? (http://www.ebay.com/itm/STAX-SRS-3030-Classic-System-II-/130624602682?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e69d5423a)

I might still prefer the Normal bias SR-Lambda by comparison, but the SR-313 looks like a really nice amp. It even has a Normal bias output to go with the Pro bias output. This isn't even factoring how the whole thing is a mere $200 shipped!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: modulor on Thu, 19 January 2012, 21:40:50
Koss PortaPro for travels, Grado sr80i with L-Cush for home.   The PortaPro's are hands down the best bang for your buck of any headphone.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Fri, 20 January 2012, 15:35:23
I need advice for something a little out of the ordinary. I am looking for some bluetooth circumaurals that sound half decent for use with iPhone. Besides the $500 sennheiers, which I don't want to pay that much, is anyone aware of anything else? I need some new ones for portable use and the jack on my iDevice is almost nonfunctional... trying to avoid paying to have it fixed if I can do bluetooth. Thanks.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: quake4mhg on Fri, 20 January 2012, 23:51:52
Sennheiser PC360. Brought it 2 years ago. Great directional sound cue in FPS games.
It running good with my cheapo asus DG. (still waiting for asus xense sold separately :ohwell: )
(http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/3586/dsc04651640x480.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Sat, 21 January 2012, 01:14:24
Quote from: lysol;495106
I need advice for something a little out of the ordinary. I am looking for some bluetooth circumaurals that sound half decent for use with iPhone. Besides the $500 sennheiers, which I don't want to pay that much, is anyone aware of anything else? I need some new ones for portable use and the jack on my iDevice is almost nonfunctional... trying to avoid paying to have it fixed if I can do bluetooth. Thanks.


May be something like this will widen your choices in headphones.
http://www.amazon.com/Miccus-BluBridge-Mini-Jack-Bluetooth-Bluetooth-Enabled/dp/B0038MA11U
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Sat, 21 January 2012, 13:33:58
Quote from: lysol;495106
I need advice for something a little out of the ordinary. I am looking for some bluetooth circumaurals that sound half decent for use with iPhone. Besides the $500 sennheiers, which I don't want to pay that much, is anyone aware of anything else? I need some new ones for portable use and the jack on my iDevice is almost nonfunctional... trying to avoid paying to have it fixed if I can do bluetooth. Thanks.

Plug a regular headphone into a Jabra Clipper / Nokia BH-111 / 214?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Sat, 21 January 2012, 20:29:56
I didn't think to look for some adapter receiver doodad...definitely another option, thanks. Otherwise I might see if I can find a decent repair service other than Apple, who don't charge 50% the price of a new iPhone... shysters.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HolidaySHRIMP on Wed, 25 January 2012, 06:47:40
Astro mixamp + sennheiser pc360 (hd555 drivers) for my Xbox 360 and for lync at work.

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 25 January 2012, 06:56:19
Has anyone had experience with the Sennheiser MM400s or the PX210BTs?  I'm looking for a solid set of bluetooth headphones for work.  I'm getting annoyed with cables getting wrapped around my chair's armrests.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 25 January 2012, 12:37:00
I went for the Senn PX210BTs.  Thanks, everyone, for all your help and input.  It was appreciated.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 25 January 2012, 16:07:59
I am tempted to put Sennheiser Amperior on pre-order. So far the impression is that it is slightly less sharp (in a good way) than the normal HD25-1s. I wonder if I should just take the plunge.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Wed, 25 January 2012, 21:36:55
Finally finished my "not so" portable setup.

(http://kidchunks.com/gh/audio_s1.jpg)

- DT770 Pro (250ohm)
- iPod 5.5g 80gb
- cMoyBB 2.03
- Gamma 1 lite
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 01 February 2012, 06:13:23
Quote from: itlnstln;498769
I went for the Senn PX210BTs.  Thanks, everyone, for all your help and input.  It was appreciated.

The PX210BTs came in last night and they sound pretty good for portable, BT headphones.  Obviously, these aren't going to replace your Grado/headphone amp setup, but they'll do for some work-friendly headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Forin on Wed, 01 February 2012, 19:28:46
My headphones are Audio Technica ATH-AD700.

At first I was blown away, since these are my first better headphones, but after some time I agree that they could have better bass and color is terrible.

I think that I need to upgrade to ATH-AD900.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lorem3k on Wed, 01 February 2012, 21:45:41
I have a Matrix Mini-i as my DAC/amp and Senn HD25-1 IIs. For portable use I have an iPod Classic.
Quote from: Forin;505736
My headphones are Audio Technica ATH-AD700.
At first I was blown away, since these are my first better headphones, but after some time I agree that they could have better bass and color is terrible.
I think that I need to upgrade to ATH-AD900.
If you're looking for better bass, don't look to the AD series at all, apparently the bass is pretty much the same on almost all of them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WhiteFireDragon on Wed, 01 February 2012, 21:49:43
Right now I have Audio Technica M50s, and they're great.

This looks like a pretty large thread for headphones, so if you guys want to all there is to know about sound equipment, head over to http://www.head-fi.org where the audio enthusiasts hangs out.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 01 February 2012, 22:18:41
I honestly haven't heard a set of Audio Technicas that's worth the price range they're selling at.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Forin on Thu, 02 February 2012, 03:15:24
I noticed that, but I've listened to ATH-AD900 and they are adequate IMO for my taste. I'm not looking for bass-only headphones.

Beside I love how comfortable their headphones are.

Yes they are overpriced.

Quote from: lorem3k;505890


If you're looking for better bass, don't look to the AD series at all, apparently the bass is pretty much the same on almost all of them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 02 February 2012, 03:38:16
That depends on the genre you listen to of course. The one note bass isn't too noticeable in things with electronic beats. They do well with female vocals especially. Plus they look cool while out and about. Have you seen how dorky HD25-1's are? They're worse when on your head. Amperior here I come.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Wed, 08 February 2012, 00:59:14
i've been rocking a various combinations of:

usb -> amb y1 -> {meta42, amb mini3} -> {hd600, alessandro ms1, ety er6, ety hf2} for about 10 years

feel free to shoot me any questions about the components

i also recently fixed up some rotted out infiniti ref1 bookshelves and paired them with a lepai tripath amp if you want to know about that.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Namkung on Wed, 08 February 2012, 04:14:50
Looking to purchase HD 598.
I plan on using it for listening to music on my computer (FLAC files) most of the time and maybe sometimes on my ipod .
Listening to mostly classical piano / soprano-pop crossovers like sarah brightman and the likes +_+.
Was wondering if getting a D/A converter might be worth it and if so how is HRT music streamer 2? I have heard that is pretty good
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: zirb on Wed, 08 February 2012, 08:18:18
I can only speak for the HD598. I've tried several available headphones in some local stores here and the HD558/HD598 where the most comfortable from the beginning. I ended up buying the HD558 because they where on offer (120€) and the difference between those two was not too huge.

Can't tell how much of a difference an D/A would make.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 08 February 2012, 08:27:23
and 558 is not too high on the ladder for bang for buck either.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Wed, 08 February 2012, 10:21:31
for computer listening, imo a D/A (even a relatively cheap usb audio device) is a must-have just because of the high noise floor from EMI inside the machine. the exception to this is apple products, which are pretty well thought out.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Wed, 08 February 2012, 10:30:55
well for whatever reason their d/a pathway is usually pretty clean
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Wed, 08 February 2012, 12:24:35
Quote from: laffindude;505927
I honestly haven't heard a set of Audio Technicas that's worth the price range they're selling at.

AD700's are only about $70-80 bucks, i dunno what other headphone offers that great of a sound stage at that price

I myself bought them as my 1st "audiophile class" headphone, I now have the AKG K701
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: minnus on Thu, 09 February 2012, 18:51:47
I have the 595 and 650. Comfort-wise, I prefer the 595.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bertross on Thu, 09 February 2012, 22:16:32
I use Beyerdynamics DT880 250Ohm on my Asus STX, freaking awesome!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jonnybastard on Thu, 09 February 2012, 22:37:21
Quote from: Bertross;510732
I use Beyerdynamics DT880 250Ohm on my Asus STX, freaking awesome!

Recently upgraded to a pair of those myself, definately a cut above the AD700's I was rocking previously.  What amp are you using out of curiosity?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pred on Fri, 10 February 2012, 02:32:14
I obtained about a year ago a pair of Audio-Technica ATH-A500s off craigslist for 10 bucks, which was a steal.

The guy thought that the thing was broken, and so wanted to get rid of it for some money. I got it, then looked to see if it really was broken. After some further inspection, I saw that the gold connecting piece had broken, with a bend in it and some connection issues on the inside. I went to a nearby radioshack and bought a new connector piece, and now these headphones work like new.

I LOVe these headphones, they sound incredible, though they do feel kind of flimsy.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Forin on Fri, 10 February 2012, 04:20:16
Had AD900 were for $160-180 I would already have one.

Quote from: projectD;509322
AD700's are only about $70-80 bucks, i dunno what other headphone offers that great of a sound stage at that price

I myself bought them as my 1st "audiophile class" headphone, I now have the AKG K701


Quote
I honestly haven't heard a set of Audio Technicas that's worth the price range they're selling at.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Roguemaster8 on Fri, 10 February 2012, 05:10:04
Nothing fancy, just a Sennheiser HD 428 I've been using for over a year now.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]39985[/ATTACH]

Plugged into the front of my computer for enchanting on board audio sound.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mysteric on Fri, 10 February 2012, 10:07:47
I'm going to buy the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohms soon.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Scottyyy on Fri, 10 February 2012, 18:35:51
Quote from: Mackem;511002
I'm going to buy the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohms soon.

I hope you like bass :D

I used to be a pretty big headphone fan. Tried all kinds of headphones, but once I settled my setup I stopped following. I'm pretty sure I'll never change from my Denon D5000s. They are perfect for me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bertross on Sat, 11 February 2012, 03:52:05
Quote from: jonnybastard;510749
Recently upgraded to a pair of those myself, definately a cut above the AD700's I was rocking previously.  What amp are you using out of curiosity?


Just using High Gain on the STX, if i was going to amp them i would go DAC Magic for sure. I find the STX good enough for my gaming needs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: boredgunner on Sun, 12 February 2012, 15:53:38
Here's mine - Cooler Master Storm Sirus.  It does everything I want a pair of headphones to do and then some.  I use it in USB mode so I can use the control console.

(http://www.gnd-tech.com/image/i/WhJAk.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: FKSSR on Mon, 13 February 2012, 10:21:04
I bought an ASUS Xonar DG sound card and a pair of Corsair HS1A headphones.  I really like the combo.  THe headphones are comfortable, and they feel very solid (more solid than the SteelSeries 5HV2 that I replaced).  The mic quality is also great, which is important for my MP gaming.

The reason I didn't buy the USB version is because I wanted my speakers to also benefit from a higher quality soundcard than built-in.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Mon, 13 February 2012, 13:56:54
Friends don't let friends use Asus soundcard. Horrible drivers.
http://brainbit.wordpress.com/category/articles/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: FKSSR on Mon, 13 February 2012, 14:46:40
Quote from: laffindude;513372
Friends don't let friends use Asus soundcard. Horrible drivers.
http://brainbit.wordpress.com/category/articles/

Thanks for posting that!  I will check my latency when I'm at home.  I haven't had any issues, but maybe I just haven't noticed them.  I only heard good things about Xonar DG before I bought it, but that doesn't always mean there are no issues... :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Tue, 14 February 2012, 05:17:34
Not sure if you noticed, there are DPC optimized driver at that website. That was the point of me posting the link ;o
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: FKSSR on Tue, 14 February 2012, 10:08:01
Quote from: laffindude;513997
Not sure if you noticed, there are DPC optimized driver at that website. That was the point of me posting the link ;o

I didn't have time to do much with it last night, but I'm going to install the Uni drivers this afternoon. :)  Thanks!!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Tue, 14 February 2012, 10:32:07
This thread needs more pictures of good DAC+AMP+headphone combos. This is what I've been using for the past two years or so.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]40477[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 14 February 2012, 22:47:23
Quote from: db_Iodine;514172
This thread needs more pictures of good DAC+AMP+headphone combos. This is what I've been using for the past two years or so.

(http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/76/106994.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Wed, 15 February 2012, 07:50:52
Man, that makes me a bit envious.

I've been thinking of buying a pair of closed headphones to pair with my K701. Been thinking about Beyerdynamic DT770's and a few Ultrasone models. Any suggestions on which would be the best bang for buck? With Ultrasone I'm most afraid of the bass, and that it's going to be a bit too much for my taste.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 15 February 2012, 08:43:27
I cant really recommend much. Ive only owned a couple of grados and the lcd2s. Ive never had a chance to go to a meet or anything
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Wed, 15 February 2012, 09:18:04
Quote from: db_Iodine;514172
This thread needs more pictures of good DAC+AMP+headphone combos. This is what I've been using for the past two years or so.

Okay.

AKG K701 and 271 mk IIs with a Woo Audio 6SE, using both an EML 5U4G/Tung Sol 6SN7GT combo and a Sophia/Sylvania set of tubes. Both sound incredible. Oddly enough, and its probably because the 701s are more broken in, but right now the 271s do not have as much bass, something that is really odd considering that the 701s have a false reputation for being light on the bass. Hook them up to a proper amp though, and its there in abundance. The 271s don't lack for detail though, and the efficiency is much better. I was actually surprised by how much detail they actually show, but I suppose that's because its basically the same driver as the 240 just with a closed back. I bought the 271s to combat the plague of Beats by Dre headphones all over the WSU campus. They cost less than the beats over the ear cans by $75 to $275 and sound phenomenally better.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]40592[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]40593[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]40594[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]40595[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]40596[/ATTACH]
Obligatory overall shot you've all probably seen by now.
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Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Scottyyy on Wed, 15 February 2012, 21:23:45
Quote from: Ragnorock;515115
Okay.

AKG K701 and 271 mk IIs with a Woo Audio 6SE, using both an EML 5U4G/Tung Sol 6SN7GT combo and a Sophia/Sylvania set of tubes. Both sound incredible. Oddly enough, and its probably because the 701s are more broken in, but right now the 271s do not have as much bass, something that is really odd considering that the 701s have a false reputation for being light on the bass. Hook them up to a proper amp though, and its there in abundance. The 271s don't lack for detail though, and the efficiency is much better. I was actually surprised by how much detail they actually show, but I suppose that's because its basically the same driver as the 240 just with a closed back. I bought the 271s to combat the plague of Beats by Dre headphones all over the WSU campus. They cost less than the beats over the ear cans by $75 to $275 and sound phenomenally better.
(Attachment) 40592[/ATTACH] (Attachment) 40593[/ATTACH] (Attachment) 40594[/ATTACH] (Attachment) 40595[/ATTACH] (Attachment) 40596[/ATTACH]
Obligatory overall shot you've all probably seen by now.
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Looks amazing. Tube amps are so pretty. :3

I had a Darkvoice 332 for a while, and it was really awesome. But like with most expensive things I own I end up selling them to buy different things. :/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Wed, 15 February 2012, 21:25:41
Thanks man. I feel you but I have no intentions of selling it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jonnybastard on Wed, 15 February 2012, 22:53:53
Loving those tube amps, nice lookin dog too :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Thu, 16 February 2012, 09:39:45
Quote from: Ragnorock;515115
I bought the 271s to combat the plague of Beats by Dre headphones all over the WSU campus. They cost less than the beats over the ear cans by $75 to $275 and sound phenomenally better.


I've seen a lot of Beats by Dre's here in Finland as well. I haven't actually seen any real reviews of those headphones nor have I ever listened to them, so I can't fully judge them but I would estimate they're not good enough to justify the price.

Great pictures and lovely tubes, btw.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 16 February 2012, 11:08:16
They're exactly what you would expect headphones branded by a washed up rap singer would be. Retarded amounts of bass with 0 attention to clarity, distortion removal, tonal balance, detail, or soundstage. They are the high price equivalent to $.02 Apple earbuds used only for a fashion statement by those that don't know anything about headphones other than "It makes the music come out" ... well some of it at least.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noGG on Thu, 16 February 2012, 14:28:25
Beats are the headphones for people that pretend they care/know about sound quality but are actually talking out of their ass. I'll stick with my ATH-M50's. I'd much rather have headphones that let me hear aspects of a song that I didn't know where there before than ones that simply make everything loud. I honestly don't see why anyone in their right mind would buy a pair of Beats when there's obviously headphones for half the price the sound EXACTLY THE SAME.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: wongster on Thu, 16 February 2012, 14:28:45
Quote from: db_Iodine;515051
I've been thinking of buying a pair of closed headphones to pair with my K701. Been thinking about Beyerdynamic DT770's and a few Ultrasone models. Any suggestions on which would be the best bang for buck? With Ultrasone I'm most afraid of the bass, and that it's going to be a bit too much for my taste.

Disclaimer: I am not an audiophile, nor do I own much audio equipment. I don't know that much about audio, but I'll give you my impressions of my Ultrasone headphone.

I have an Ultrasone PRO550, which is a pretty fantastic headphone in my opinion. I would definitely be careful of getting Ultrasones though, some people like really them, and some really don't. They excel with electronica music; because of that, the bass may be too much for you. The bass is not overpowering for me; it provides a very nice thump and I would classify it as a "fun" headphone because I like some bass in my music and games. It has a really nice airy soundstage for closed back headphones.

I think the PRO550 was a good buy. It all depends on what you will be listening to because different headphones suit different people. For bassier music, the PRO550 will be hard to beat at it's price range (I got it at $150 on Amazon. edit: wow it's now at $200. Yikes!). If you tend to listen to classical music, something like the Sennheiser 595 or something like that would be better. I hope that helps! :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dirge on Thu, 16 February 2012, 14:44:32
I use an old pair of grado s80's.  my walking around I use weston um2's.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noGG on Thu, 16 February 2012, 15:20:38
How are the Weston UM2's? I've been thinking about investing in a pair when I start DJ'ing for people other than my roommates to save my hearing in the long run, but I'm a real stickler for sound quality. Mainly interested in how accurate they are and how comfortable they are to wear over an extended period of time.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dirge on Thu, 16 February 2012, 15:48:26
I love them noGG, worn on the train for an hour there and back a day.  Al Green to Green Day, sounds great to me, not as tiring as the Grado 80's not as harsh either.  For what I have to compare them with is limited, I'm very happy with my purchase, 4 yeasr or so later.  The price of the tips has gone up some mind.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Collective on Thu, 16 February 2012, 16:48:43
Iodine, I find myself in the same position as you, I have k701s and I was also thinking about buying another headphone to have as a second reference.  I think the Beyerdynamics look more comfortable and more like the K701 style than the Ultrasones, but also the frequency response is very similar to the AKGs at least according to the frequency graphs at headphone.com.  Anyways, no matter your choice, if you really think there is too much bass you can always put on some equalization.  I use foobar2000 with the winamp dsp bridge and use the Electri-q posihfopit free parametric equalizer through that.  Lots of people talk about each headphone's frequency response signature like you're committed to it but you're not, I think you are more committed to the stereo imaging, fit, and appearance, so just don't worry about it I'm sure you'll make a good choice.  It might be worth it to just get something like a refurbished HD 280 for a closed phone so you can buy some other open phones haha.  I personally don't know whether to get HD 555, HD 558, or a KRK 10S subwoofer.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: db_Iodine on Fri, 17 February 2012, 05:03:49
Quote from: wongster;516277
Disclaimer: I am not an audiophile, nor do I own much audio equipment. I don't know that much about audio, but I'll give you my impressions of my Ultrasone headphone.

I have an Ultrasone PRO550, which is a pretty fantastic headphone in my opinion. I would definitely be careful of getting Ultrasones though, some people like really them, and some really don't. They excel with electronica music; because of that, the bass may be too much for you. The bass is not overpowering for me; it provides a very nice thump and I would classify it as a "fun" headphone because I like some bass in my music and games. It has a really nice airy soundstage for closed back headphones.

I think the PRO550 was a good buy. It all depends on what you will be listening to because different headphones suit different people. For bassier music, the PRO550 will be hard to beat at it's price range (I got it at $150 on Amazon. edit: wow it's now at $200. Yikes!). If you tend to listen to classical music, something like the Sennheiser 595 or something like that would be better. I hope that helps! :)


The Pro 550 would be in the same price range as the DT 770, but I was actually thinking of going up to Pro 750. Perhaps I'll just take a plunge and try the Pro 750 out and if I for some reason don't like them, I can always return them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Index on Fri, 17 February 2012, 11:37:56
Just ordered a new portable headphone amp! I'm so excited!!! Getting the PA2V2 from Gary.

I also plan to get the new Limited Edition DT 770 Pros. Might also get the TMA-1's for portable use.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 17 February 2012, 11:58:25
DT770 Pro limited edition use the 32ohm drivers. Make sure you know what you're getting into. The drivers sound very different (in a bad way) compared to the 250 and 600ohm version.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: wongster on Fri, 17 February 2012, 13:07:17
Quote from: db_Iodine;516869
The Pro 550 would be in the same price range as the DT 770, but I was actually thinking of going up to Pro 750. Perhaps I'll just take a plunge and try the Pro 750 out and if I for some reason don't like them, I can always return them.

Oh, okay. I've heard good things about the Pro 750 as well, and just like you said you can return them if they don't work for you.

Good luck! :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Index on Fri, 17 February 2012, 13:18:26
http://www.head-fi.org/a/headphone-impedance

Just because a pair of headphones has a lower impedance, doesn't mean it's better. It all depends on your setup.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Surly73 on Tue, 21 February 2012, 17:33:21
Quote from: laffindude;513372
Friends don't let friends use Asus soundcard. Horrible drivers.
http://brainbit.wordpress.com/category/articles/


I thought that was the common wisdom for anything from Creative.  It seems that EVERYONE has horrible drivers.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 21 February 2012, 22:03:37
Quote from: Surly73;521105
I thought that was the common wisdom for anything from Creative.  It seems that EVERYONE has horrible drivers.
It's practically a rule that audio device drivers have to suck, in my experience. Creative, Asus, Realtek, maybe even non-Asus, C-Media-based cards too. (It's quite telling that some of the Xonar Unified Driver (http://brainbit.wordpress.com/2010/07/19/asus-xonar-unified-drivers/) packages use the default C-Media control panel like the Auzentech and HT Omega cards using the same chipset.)

That said, my X-Fi cards haven't given me much fuss, from my four-year-old X-Fi Prelude to the X-Fi Forte to the X-Fi Titanium HD I traded the Forte for (other guy needed analog surround channels, I didn't). Good thing that's the case, because I have to have their gaming DSP effects.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Tue, 21 February 2012, 22:19:03
I would just like to mention that the only way to properly do DAC is with a standalone DAC out of the case, (Schiit Bifrost or something) not a sound card. Anyone trying to argue the merits of one brand of sound card vs another is silly.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Tue, 21 February 2012, 23:26:25
meh. it's not like usb dacs are immune from EMI or other pc-based noise sources; they get a fair amount of noise over the bus (particularly if they rely on it for power), and computer desks are pretty noisy things.

it's important to remember that you're never going to get distortion-less audio repro, and by far the largest source of distortion in any reasonable listening setup is environmental (pollution, reflections, etc), and all the stuff between the voice coils and your brain ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Tue, 21 February 2012, 23:54:25
I was thinking of optical or coaxial input, USB DACs just aren't as good.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Wed, 22 February 2012, 00:02:39
coax and optical are both far from perfect, and the audio codecs tend to resample before sending the bits out.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Surly73 on Wed, 22 February 2012, 10:39:20
Quote from: NamelessPFG;521393
It's practically a rule that audio device drivers have to suck, in my experience. Creative, Asus, Realtek, maybe even non-Asus, C-Media-based cards too. (It's quite telling that some of the Xonar Unified Driver (http://brainbit.wordpress.com/2010/07/19/asus-xonar-unified-drivers/) packages use the default C-Media control panel like the Auzentech and HT Omega cards using the same chipset.)

That said, my X-Fi cards haven't given me much fuss, from my four-year-old X-Fi Prelude to the X-Fi Forte to the X-Fi Titanium HD I traded the Forte for (other guy needed analog surround channels, I didn't). Good thing that's the case, because I have to have their gaming DSP effects.

I've had lots of issues with my Auzentech Forte 7.1 drivers by Creative.  Analog outputs vanish.  It thinks the card isn't installed. Problems and crashes when switching modes.  Sometimes when switching the number of speakers (or from speakers to headphones) all audio will go away and not come back.  Really annoying.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Wed, 22 February 2012, 11:02:40
Quote from: mkawa;521560
coax and optical are both far from perfect, and the audio codecs tend to resample before sending the bits out.

I'm not saying that standalone DACs are superior to analog by itself, I'm saying that they are superior to internal soundcards aslmost universally. Also the bifrost does bitperfect conversion, meaning no upscaling.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parak on Wed, 22 February 2012, 11:29:59
Quote from: Ragnorock;521906
I'm not saying that standalone DACs are superior to analog by itself, I'm saying that they are superior to internal soundcards aslmost universally.

That's a pretty lofty claim, actually. In which metrics are they superior, and do you have objective measurements to back that up?

:pop2:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Wed, 22 February 2012, 13:11:57
I don't need to, do your own research. I don't have time to explain it again.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parak on Wed, 22 February 2012, 14:12:01
Quote from: Ragnorock;522008
I don't need to, do your own research. I don't have time to explain it again.

Yeah that's not quite how this works. If you make a nebulous claim like that without providing evidence, I don't need to find evidence of my own to dismiss it.

Here's a similar pointless argument: "I would just like to mention that the only way to properly drive to the grocery store is with a Ford (Mustang Boss or something) not a Chevy. Anyone trying to argue the merits of Corvette vs Camaro is silly."
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Wed, 22 February 2012, 14:19:01
Point taken, but if I'm going to spend my time arguing the merits of soundcards vs standalone DACs, I'm going to do it on Head FI, not a headphone thread on a keyboard forum. I have group buys to run. Its something I have generally regarded as fact for a long time like most people who know about them do. I'm not going to go dredging up relevant information to further derail a thread, sorry.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Typhaeon on Wed, 22 February 2012, 15:27:22
Lower-end setup compared to most here: Sennheiser PC350s running through an ASUS Xonar Essence STX.  I should at least upgrade the cans at some point; was thinking about the 360s since Sennheisers have great build quality and the noise-cancelling mic has never let me down.  

Pretty much every other headset has a bunch of gimmicky "gamer" horse**** tacked onto it, and uses some awful on-board USB sound processor that makes my supposed enthusiast card rather irrelevant in function.  Suggestions, anybody?  I'd very much prefer a headset to a standard pair of headphones, because standalone mics are often terrible, don't cancel noise properly, etc.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Wed, 22 February 2012, 15:36:48
Blue microphones aren't terrible, just sayin'.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: volund on Wed, 22 February 2012, 17:41:57
I'm currently using a pair of JVC HA-RX 700's fed by a ASUS Xonar DX
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Wed, 22 February 2012, 21:33:57
Quote from: Surly73;521890
I've had lots of issues with my Auzentech Forte 7.1 drivers by Creative.  Analog outputs vanish.  It thinks the card isn't installed. Problems and crashes when switching modes.  Sometimes when switching the number of speakers (or from speakers to headphones) all audio will go away and not come back.  Really annoying.
I'll admit, my Forte disappeared from Windows once, and it wasn't solved until I started changing which PCIe slot it was installed in. There was also the occasional lockup during mode switch, which seemed to be avoidable if I just make sure to close every application first, including Web browsers. Not exactly the best of driver experiences, but at least it worked most of the time.

By comparison, the Prelude and Titanium HD are quite stable, same damn Creative drivers aside. I'm just grateful that they're usable at all given how much I depend on their DSP features while gaming. Wouldn't want to do without EAX or CMSS-3D Headphone now...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Wed, 22 February 2012, 21:53:52
Quote from: Ragnorock;521906
I'm not saying that standalone DACs are superior to analog by itself, I'm saying that they are superior to internal soundcards aslmost universally. Also the bifrost does bitperfect conversion, meaning no upscaling.
actually this isn't necessarily true. the issue, as i alluded to before is noise. _in general_ there are more sources of noise inside the case than out.

generally speaking, there are two sources of noise when you colocate your D/A stage with your computer. 1) EMI 2) switching noise from the PC's power supply

the reason people generally try to do D/A conversion out of the case is that moving out of the case is the most reasonable way to avoid both sources of noise. EMI is generally blocked by a sufficiently thick case, and the PC's power supply can't inject noise on your D/A's power rail if it's not powered by it.

that said, nothing's stopping you from doing both within the case, and if you look at pro audio cards such as the m-audio line, they deal with EMI by shielding their cards, and regulate the crap out of power from the power supply to stomp out noise on the power rail. in exchange, they get massive bandwidth from being on PCIe.

it's also worth noting that you can fail at both these things on an outboard device too. this is why, eg, usb devices don't always sound that great. not only do they have to deal with bus noise, traffic, and corruption, but it's not like the only source of EMI is your computer... further, usually _if_ they have outboard power supplies, they're switchers that are just as noisy as your ATX job, and lower voltage to boot. spdif doesn't completely fix this, but at least gets rid of the bus aspect. still, you have to keep resampling, jitter, etc. in mind if you go this route.

anyway, my point was that nothing's perfect, and you shouldn't feel like you need to rejigger everything and buy all kinds of audiophile gear because someone on the internet tells you that your sound card is junk.

my "perfect" setup (ie, the one i can't find enough flaws in to give a piss) is a pair of infinity ref1's (ca. 1989) i got free and refoamed, a lepai ta2020-based amp that i hacked the input section off of (the volume pot died, oops), and an amb gamma1 kit that i leave usb powered. the headphone end of it is a meta42 kit and a pair of senn hd600s (pushing 11 years old this year!).

at near field, this is about as good as it gets, and the largest investment was in tools and time to build and learn.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kraise on Thu, 23 February 2012, 08:53:56
Anyone have good recommendations for headphones that will be good for computer use and for listening through an amp to practice guitar?

I have been looking at ATH-M50s, AKG K240s, and AKG K271s. I have tried the first two at a local store and they both felt good on my head and both produced different sounds (semi-open vs. closed) but also fine. I wasn't hugely impressed however but maybe because my expectations were so high after reading so many reviews... I still might get the M50s though since they felt a little more sturdy and I already know I will probably drop them a few times on my hardwood floor. I do like the fact though that both AKGs come with two detachable cables though, one can be used for computer use and the other to my amp. I'm open to suggestions! And also important: budget is around $250 CAD

Note: I have had my eyes on AKG K702s for a while now but seems that prices here have jumped from at least a year ago, around $450 now.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 23 February 2012, 09:14:31
alessandro music series 1. sublime for guitar practice
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Thu, 23 February 2012, 10:37:24
Speaking of EMI inside computer cases, I wonder if that's actually what people hear from the analog outputs of onboard audio and not, say, a ground loop caused by poor motherboard design (from an audio standpoint).

I'm not saying that EMI/RFI is a non-factor, but I can't rule out the possibility that some of the issues are misattributed, either.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 23 February 2012, 12:05:48
Quote from: kraise;523016
Anyone have good recommendations for headphones that will be good for computer use and for listening through an amp to practice guitar?

I have been looking at ATH-M50s, AKG K240s, and AKG K271s. I have tried the first two at a local store and they both felt good on my head and both produced different sounds (semi-open vs. closed) but also fine. I wasn't hugely impressed however but maybe because my expectations were so high after reading so many reviews... I still might get the M50s though since they felt a little more sturdy and I already know I will probably drop them a few times on my hardwood floor. I do like the fact though that both AKGs come with two detachable cables though, one can be used for computer use and the other to my amp. I'm open to suggestions! And also important: budget is around $250 CAD

Note: I have had my eyes on AKG K702s for a while now but seems that prices here have jumped from at least a year ago, around $450 now.
Okay so the 701/2s are actually $280 on amazon. I have Prime so I could get them to me for free and then I could ship them to you if they are that much more expensive in Canada. I recently bought a pair of 271mk2s, which are essentially closed back 240s, so they offer a nice balance between the great soundstage and clarity of the 240s, while upping the bass and isolation toward the M50s. The mids on the M50s are pretty weak compared to their bass and treble, but overall are still an excellent value, no one will ever say you made a bad buy getting them. It depends on your musical tastes and such more than anything. While the bass in the M50s isn't overpowering, its just really well done, they aren't suited for every kind of music. Unamped, the 271s have enough efficiency that I can listen to them as loud as I want without having to deal with the lack of portability that comes with using an amp. Amped though, the 702s are pretty much superior in every way, including bass- lol yeah, I was surprised.

Since you probably don't really need to keep others from hearing your music or you hearing outside noises, closed isn't strictly necessary unless you are a bass freak.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: emptyk on Thu, 23 February 2012, 12:20:24
^ Amazon Prime is the Devil and an enabler of acquisition disorder.

To stay on topic, I bought my Sennheiser HD-650 headphones using Amazon Prime.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kraise on Thu, 23 February 2012, 12:42:12
Quote from: mkawa;523028
alessandro music series 1. sublime for guitar practice

I hear good things about those too but unfortunately I can't find anyone who carries them locally to try and/or buy :(

Quote from: Ragnorock;523211
Okay so the 701/2s are actually $280 on amazon. I have Prime so I could get them to me for free and then I could ship them to you if they are that much more expensive in Canada. I recently bought a pair of 271mk2s, which are essentially closed back 240s, so they offer a nice balance between the great soundstage and clarity of the 240s, while upping the bass and isolation toward the M50s. The mids on the M50s are pretty weak compared to their bass and treble, but overall are still an excellent value, no one will ever say you made a bad buy getting them. It depends on your musical tastes and such more than anything. While the bass in the M50s isn't overpowering, its just really well done, they aren't suited for every kind of music. Unamped, the 271s have enough efficiency that I can listen to them as loud as I want without having to deal with the lack of portability that comes with using an amp. Amped though, the 702s are pretty much superior in every way, including bass- lol yeah, I was surprised.

Since you probably don't really need to keep others from hearing your music or you hearing outside noises, closed isn't strictly necessary unless you are a bass freak.

Wow, thanks for the advice and offer! I didn't get a chance to try the 271s but I just slightly preferred the sound of the 240 over the M50 so I was kind of curious to try the 271 – I was late to meet someone so I had to leave the store. I am almost positive I would have liked it but I also like the semi-open back of the 240s... which brings me back to my first choice: 702.

This is probably the only store in my area that carries the 702 (link below) and although there are a couple of websites that will ship it to me, they will still be over $400. I go here to try out any music/audio-related equipment.
http://www.long-mcquade.com/products/6291/Pro_Audio_Recording/Headphones/AKG/K702_-_Premium_Open_Ear_Reference_Headphones.htm

However, I think I may just pull the trigger on either the 240 or 271 after I try both of them out in-store and see if I ever feel the need to upgrade to the 702 in the future. I won't be able to afford a proper amp anytime soon so I think that is my most rational decision.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 23 February 2012, 12:46:02
Lol yeah, I know how it can be buying things in Canada. Amazon.ca sucks by comparison. Let me know if you want me to do the same deal for either of those though, I figure the shipping to you may or may not make it worthwhile though. They're both around 125-150 here.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kraise on Thu, 23 February 2012, 13:14:37
Quote from: emptyk;523231
To stay on topic, I bought my Sennheiser HD-650 headphones using Amazon Prime.

I wish I could get those! Just outside of my budget though. I'm trying to be good and start giving myself a budget for purchases.

Quote from: Ragnorock;523273
Lol yeah, I know how it can be buying things in Canada. Amazon.ca sucks by comparison. Let me know if you want me to do the same deal for either of those though, I figure the shipping to you may or may not make it worthwhile though. They're both around 125-150 here.

I really appreciate the offer and although I would probably save a few bucks (even after compensating you) I'll just get them locally to save any hassle. Thanks though!

Amazon.ca does suck for electronics and variety and I sometimes buy off Amazon.com anyway and just take the hit from duty/customs but a lot of things won't even ship. I will try out the 240 and M50 again and then try the 271 and get one of the three if I really like one of them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: modulor on Thu, 23 February 2012, 13:18:41
One of my good friends just ordered a pair of the AKG K 271 MK II 32ohm and I've very curious to hear what they sound like compared to my Senn HD280 Pros 64ohm once his are broken in.  Plus, they are pretty badass looking in comparision.  The only time I use the Senns though is for planes or the occasional solo metro train ride.  They can't compare to open air cans like my Grado 225i or even my Koss PortaPro (IMO) but when external silence is of importance, a good pair of closed phones is indeed necessary (as is his case).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aynjell on Thu, 23 February 2012, 14:39:26
Quote from: mkawa;523028
alessandro music series 1. sublime for guitar practice


I'd of reccomended something similar, although I would have suggested grado based on personal experience with them, they're largely the same can so I'd assume that the ms-1 is just as good if not better for the purpose.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 23 February 2012, 14:50:45
Allesandros are basically tuned/upgraded Grados... so yeah you can get 90% of the can with a pair of Grados.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 23 February 2012, 16:13:25
Quote from: NamelessPFG;523116
Speaking of EMI inside computer cases, I wonder if that's actually what people hear from the analog outputs of onboard audio and not, say, a ground loop caused by poor motherboard design (from an audio standpoint).

I'm not saying that EMI/RFI is a non-factor, but I can't rule out the possibility that some of the issues are misattributed, either.
i think the ****tyness of onboard audio is caused by a huge number of factors and it's probably not worth thinking too much about exactly which one of them is worst.

alessandros are barely modified grados. given the qc from the grado factory (basically non-existent), it's hard to believe that they would sound any different on average, AND YET i tried both the sr80 and the MS1s as a guitar monitor, and i preferred the MS1s. i have no idea why, but the MS1s sounded lusher and fuller.

afaik they measure approximately the same as the sr80/sr125 though, so i dunno really.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bace on Thu, 23 February 2012, 21:21:35
I just recently got into headphones after mechanical keyboards. Heres what I currently have in my possession.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]41514[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AKIMbO on Thu, 23 February 2012, 22:18:34
Quote from: bace;523797
I just recently got into headphones after mechanical keyboards. Heres what I currently have in my possession.

(Attachment) 41514[/ATTACH]

How do you like those beyers?  I've got a pair of Beyerdynamic DT-990 Premiums and I've always been curious as to what their supra-aurals sound like.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bace on Thu, 23 February 2012, 23:09:25
Quote from: AKIMbO;523866
How do you like those beyers?  I've got a pair of Beyerdynamic DT-990 Premiums and I've always been curious as to what their supra-aurals sound like.

Me ears are still pretty inexperienced but the dt1350s sound excellent to me and I like them alot. They are very comfortable and isolates very well. The highs and mids are extremely clear and crisp but not piercing. The lows are tight and punchy but lacking some body. Amping does helps to add body to the lows though. I've had little experience with circumaurals so I can't really make any comparisons. I listen mostly to alt. rock, rap/hip-hop, dubstep, and progressive/electro house. The dt1350 are my favorite for alt. rock and electro house while I prefer the hd25-1 or the tma-1 for rap and dubstep although the dt1350 could hold its own in those genres too.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Supertoaster on Thu, 23 February 2012, 23:59:29
I'm using this crappy Rosewill USB headset. It has such boring sound. I plan to get some JVC HAR700's and a Asus XONAR DG for my Birthday in May.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16826193055
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 24 February 2012, 00:41:23
Quote from: bace;523919
I listen mostly to alt. rock, rap/hip-hop, dubstep, and progressive/electro house.


That's pretty obvious from your collection of cans. You really should pick up a set of Denon D2000. They're right up your alley.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mysteric on Fri, 24 February 2012, 08:45:39
I've heard the DT 770 Pro 80 Ohms are also good for those genres of music (Which I listen to). Good buy or not? I'm planning on buying them pretty soon.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: volund on Fri, 24 February 2012, 09:21:11
Quote from: Supertoaster;523973
I'm using this crappy Rosewill USB headset. It has such boring sound. I plan to get some JVC HAR700's and a Asus XONAR DG for my Birthday in May.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16826193055


awesome combo, I have the Xonar DX and the HARX, great sound quality for games and music
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Supertoaster on Fri, 24 February 2012, 10:33:16
Quote from: volund;524217
awesome combo, I have the Xonar DX and the HARX, great sound quality for games and music


Yeah, plus I can mod them. it's funny the 700s are basically 900s but missing a few things. Do ypu think they work good for electronics with lots of synths
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bace on Fri, 24 February 2012, 11:14:58
Quote from: laffindude;524011
That's pretty obvious from your collection of cans. You really should pick up a set of Denon D2000. They're right up your alley.

Cool, I'll look into those. Thanks.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GeorgeStorm on Sun, 26 February 2012, 19:58:19
How would people say AKG 601s compare to ones like DT770s in terms of quality?
As far as I'm aware, the DT's are more bass heavy, but purely in terms of build/sound quality, how do they compare? If they are roughly the same price/the 601s being slightly cheaper, would they be a sensible buy?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Sun, 11 March 2012, 09:27:40
So I currently have these **** Aerial 7 headphones (http://www.aerial7.com/product/street/tank/storm/)
It's my birthday soon :D (yay)
and I am kinda thinking that I would like these (http://www.akg.com/site/products/powerslave,id,252,pid,252,nodeid,2,_language,EN.html) and this (http://www.noisymotel.com/product.asp?ProductID=286)
Would it be worth 200 of my precious dollars?
Would you recommend something different?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Sun, 11 March 2012, 09:57:01
You don't really need an amp for those, its the 240's big brother the 701/2 that is difficult to drive without one. Neither is FiiO a top of the line brand, though they do make great portable amps. That said, it will help nonetheless. As for the cans, those are a great option, though I would probably go with the mkiis if you can afford it. The extra accessories and aesthetic redesign makes them a bit better value even with the extra $50 tacked on to the price. Those are semi open, which means if you're wearing them in public and listening to them at a medium-high to loud volume and there isn't a lot of ambient noise, odds are most will be able to hear you. Those concerns depend on your planned usage of them obviously. Anyways I'm a big fan of AKGs, I have the 701s and 271 mkiis. I went with the 271s for my portable pair because of the better sound isolation and I have the 701s if I really want to just listen to the music. If I didn't have them I probably would have gotten the 240s though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Sun, 11 March 2012, 10:08:09
Quote from: Ragnorock;542187
You don't really need an amp for those, its the 240's big brother the 701/2 that is difficult to drive without one. Neither is FiiO a top of the line brand, though they do make great portable amps. That said, it will help nonetheless. As for the cans, those are a great option, though I would probably go with the mkiis if you can afford it. The extra accessories and aesthetic redesign makes them a bit better value even with the extra $50 tacked on to the price. Those are semi open, which means if you're wearing them in public and listening to them at a medium-high to loud volume and there isn't a lot of ambient noise, odds are most will be able to hear you. Those concerns depend on your planned usage of them obviously. Anyways I'm a big fan of AKGs, I have the 701s and 271 mkiis. I went with the 271s for my portable pair because of the better sound isolation and I have the 701s if I really want to just listen to the music. If I didn't have them I probably would have gotten the 240s though.

I'm only going to be using them at home,
So the semi-open doesn't really affect me.
I've tried a friend's 701's,
If I did choose to buy these would they be as comfortable?
I wouldn't be able to afford the mkII's,
are the only differences the extra cable, velvet ear pads, and coiled cable?
What would you recommend as an amp instead of the FiiO?
I wouldn't want to spend more than $85 on an amp if possible.

But then the real question is,
Should I even bother?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Sun, 11 March 2012, 10:32:22
I'm going to go out on a limb and assume that the 240s and the 271s use the same ear cushion pads, since they're both swappable and from everything I can tell they look the same. If that is the case, then the 240s will not be as comfortable imo. The 701's pads are thicker, and thus my ears, which I generally consider to be of pretty normal, maybe a bit larger in size, do not touch the inside of the can on the 701 but do on the 271s. My friend noted the same difference. Those are pretty much the differences, aside from the exterior redesign, the speakers inside of the 240, whatever version, are the same and sound the same for all intensive purposes. The only real difference is that the ear cushions in the mkii are softer so they conform better to your head, offering better bass response and more comfort.

If it was me doing it all over again, and I was only listening to them at home, I would do almost exactly what I did the first time and save up and get the 701s with a desktop solid state amp such as the Matrix M stage http://www.head-fi.org/t/599832/matrix-m-stage-newest-2-1-version-silver-new

or the pricier tube amp Schiit Lyr. http://www.head-fi.org/t/576141/wts-schiit-lyr-aus

Obviously that is much more than you have laid out for a price range so I say your plan is solid. The 240s are great cans, but buy them first and decide what you think of them before getting an amp. Odds are you won't feel its necessary as long as your source is decent.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Sun, 11 March 2012, 10:45:09
I have about a month to decide on what I want to do.
I am really liking the look of the 240's though.
I should try to sell my Aerial7 cans.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Mon, 12 March 2012, 00:24:23
[ATTACH=CONFIG]43638[/ATTACH]
Grado SR125i, PreSonus Firebox. Probably not the best amp but it's a simple signal chain.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Roguemaster8 on Mon, 12 March 2012, 03:14:22
All these Grado headphones...Are they really worth the price?

I was thinking about upgrading to some M50's, but for that money I could get a nice Tenkeyless Filco with browns.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Kazen on Mon, 12 March 2012, 10:05:59
(http://www.sennheiser.nl/sennheiser/products.nsf/resources/910AB01E74275D46C125768F00494978/$File/MX271_detail.jpg)

cheap 10€ earbuds..

do the job well.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: feckn_eejit on Mon, 12 March 2012, 15:37:43
.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Mon, 12 March 2012, 17:55:42
Quote from: Roguemaster8;543125
All these Grado headphones...Are they really worth the price?

I was thinking about upgrading to some M50's, but for that money I could get a nice Tenkeyless Filco with browns.

I love my sr60i's. I had a pair of 325is, but didn't really like the sound of them all that much. They also made my ears ache (from what I would assume to be the brightness). I drove them with an ibasso d10 cobra. Never tried anything higher than those.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Tue, 13 March 2012, 01:25:25
What would you recommend as a first pair of decent headphones?
These (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-AKG-K240-Studio-Headphones-K-240-S-K240S-headphone-/270905587249?pt=DJ_Gear_Lighting&hash=item3f133b3631#ht_1839wt_1396), or these. (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-GRADO-SR60i-SR60-SR-60-AUDIOPHILE-HEADPHONE-/130566778679?pt=AU_headphone&hash=item1e6662ef37#ht_6005wt_905)
They're both the same price for me to get them.
Not sure what amp I'm going to get to drive them yet either.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Tue, 13 March 2012, 01:43:07
koss ksc35 or sportapros if they still make them. no amp.

if you go grado you you need to do sr80s at a minimum. the sr60s are muddy and bleh
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jonnybastard on Tue, 13 March 2012, 01:47:13
I can't comment on either of those, but the Alessandro's MS-2 (Grado's basically) I used to have weren't all that comfy for long sessions.  I've got a pair of Audio Technica AD700's that have had very little use sitting here gathering dust if you're interested, you won't need an amp to drive them either. (http://headphones.com.au/psingle?productID=178)
Send me a PM if you're keen :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Tue, 13 March 2012, 01:48:29
Quote from: mkawa;544234
koss ksc35 or sportapros if they still make them. no amp.

if you go grado you you need to do sr80s at a minimum. the sr60s are muddy and bleh

My friend has some Koss portapros,
and I can not wear them,
they sound good, but they just fall off my head..
The cheapest I can find the sr80's in Australia is $140,
and that's putting me over budget with an amp.

Edit*
I don't think I will, one of my friends might though,
Not sure yet, thanks for the offer.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Maarten on Tue, 13 March 2012, 02:03:18
Im not a headphone guy.... im one of those iem dudes ;) Shure SE530`s on a Meier audio Corda 2 move as DAC and/or amp and when i want to be even more isolated from my environment ill put one of these over my iems;

[ATTACH=CONFIG]43894[/ATTACH]

No, don't laugh.... i know it looks silly but it just gives me such a nice listening experience.....
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Tue, 13 March 2012, 02:38:38
try ksc35 then. also sennheiser hd202. the last classic under 70$ is sony mdr-v6/7506. i wouldn't spend more than 50 on a first pair.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Tue, 13 March 2012, 03:11:18
Head-fi are no help whatsoever, I think I'm just gonna buy the K240's.
I'll get an amp/dac later.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Tue, 13 March 2012, 08:09:14
Quote from: mkawa;544277
try ksc35 then. also sennheiser hd202. the last classic under 70$ is sony mdr-v6/7506. i wouldn't spend more than 50 on a first pair.
My first pair... I don't recommend them. Too harsh.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Tue, 13 March 2012, 08:17:55
Quote from: PixelVandalism;544218
What would you recommend as a first pair of decent headphones?
These (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-AKG-K240-Studio-Headphones-K-240-S-K240S-headphone-/270905587249?pt=DJ_Gear_Lighting&hash=item3f133b3631#ht_1839wt_1396), or these. (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-GRADO-SR60i-SR60-SR-60-AUDIOPHILE-HEADPHONE-/130566778679?pt=AU_headphone&hash=item1e6662ef37#ht_6005wt_905)
They're both the same price for me to get them.
Not sure what amp I'm going to get to drive them yet either.

I can't recommend because I've never tried the Akg's. Any flat pad Grados are terribly uncomfortable after 2 hours. But I also wouldn't recommend replacing the pads on the sr60's, they sound overly bright and the bass drops out for the most part.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Tue, 13 March 2012, 08:27:07
Quote from: Maarten;544251
(Attachment) 43894[/ATTACH]

While amusing it makes some sense.  Those are actually much nicer looking than the ones I've got for outdoor work.  On the other hand my Sony MDR-NC50's do a reasonable job but certain tools are too much for them.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: feckn_eejit on Tue, 13 March 2012, 18:37:12
.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: verbel on Wed, 14 March 2012, 07:35:41
Is there such a thing as decent wireless headphones? I currently use a set of sennheiser hd 555's and I really like them. I would really like to have something of the same quality that is wireless.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 14 March 2012, 09:48:16
sennheiser has some good wirless aparently
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: J-P on Wed, 14 March 2012, 11:15:33
[ATTACH=CONFIG]44072[/ATTACH] I can recommend these cans. Beyerdynamic DT1350's - I have yet to hear any wireless headphones that I'd recommend, though the AKG HEARO 999 Audiosphere II (http://www.akg.com/site/products/powerslave,id,247,pid,247,nodeid,2,_language,EN.html)'s are touted as the bestest (and currently discontinued).... drool
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: guilleguillaume on Wed, 21 March 2012, 05:43:56
Today I received a Sieveking Omega with Zebrano finish as my headphone stand and it's just amazing.

I got myself a pair of Beyerdynamic DT 990 Edition (250ohm) and a Nuforce Icon HDP for computer use. Was lucky enough to find the HDP for 320€ while the normal price here is like 450€ and more.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: guilleguillaume on Wed, 21 March 2012, 05:53:33
I've bought a pair of Beyerdynamic DT990 Edition Headphones (250ohm) and a Nuforce Icon HDP. It should arrive this week or next. I found a really nice deal for the Nuforce Icon HDP paying for it the same price as USA MSRP price while here the standarad price is like 600 USD. I'm quite excited, I know it's not the best gear around here but I think it will suit my needs.

Also today I received a Sieveking Omega with Zembrano finish. Nice German made headphone stand, it's amazing.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Wed, 21 March 2012, 06:03:57
Quote from: guilleguillaume;552282
I've bought a pair of Beyerdynamic DT990 Edition Headphones (250ohm) and a Nuforce Icon HDP. It should arrive this week or next. I found a really nice deal for the Nuforce Icon HDP paying for it the same price as USA MSRP price while here the standarad price is like 600 USD. I'm quite excited, I know it's not the best gear around here but I think it will suit my needs.

Also today I received a Sieveking Omega with Zembrano finish. Nice German made headphone stand, it's amazing.

Aren't those stands upwards of $100?

Last night I bought my AKG K240's
I can't wait to get them, after I get back from my holiday.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: guilleguillaume on Wed, 21 March 2012, 06:29:28
Quote from: PixelVandalism;552286
Aren't those stands upwards of $100?

Last night I bought my AKG K240's
I can't wait to get them, after I get back from my holiday.

I sold some old spare hardware items then I purchased it for 99€.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Wed, 21 March 2012, 06:39:14
Quote from: guilleguillaume;552297
I sold some old spare hardware items then I purchased it for 99€.

That's a fair bit of money.
I love the aesthetics of the HDP, I'm probably going to get a uDAC-2 for the looks, among other reasons.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Wed, 21 March 2012, 08:17:42
Im still on the search for a nice wide  brim headphone stand for the LCDs
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: guilleguillaume on Wed, 21 March 2012, 09:36:27
Here is a picture:

(http://i.imgur.com/Y3nB9.jpg)

At home they're quite happy because I didn't spend the money in keyboards :party:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Wed, 21 March 2012, 10:22:31
Quote from: guilleguillaume;552406
Here is a picture:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Y3nB9.jpg)


At home they're quite happy because I didn't spend the money in keyboards :party:

How do you like the HD25s? Is the addias version based off the HD25 or the lower-bracket version? I'm thinking about getting some new closed-back cans that I can use at work (I don't think my coworkers want to hear what I listen to through the outside of my Grados :P)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ekw808 on Wed, 21 March 2012, 14:10:26
The headphones I use daily with my computer are HD555's modded, and I have been using a pair of Monster pro gold turbines for my ipod, but I recently RMA'd those and they said that model was currently not in stock so I opted for the miles davis trumpets instead. Pretty stoked about seeing what the difference is between the gold and the trumpets are =).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Maarten on Wed, 21 March 2012, 15:23:58
Quote from: feckn_eejit;545027
Interesting idea!  Might to try that with my UE 10vi despite the fact that I'd feel like a complete berk walking around with ear protectors on and little wires coming out of them...


Oh just do it! Peltor now also makes the Optime III in neck-version;

[ATTACH=CONFIG]45196[/ATTACH]

Still looks geeky, but not as geeky as the full over-your-head version :clap2:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: guilleguillaume on Mon, 26 March 2012, 10:57:36
Quote from: sth;552444
How do you like the HD25s? Is the addias version based off the HD25 or the lower-bracket version? I'm thinking about getting some new closed-back cans that I can use at work (I don't think my coworkers want to hear what I listen to through the outside of my Grados :P)

I actually like them for electronic music and some rock and I've been palying with them a lot of months for now but after trying my new Beyerdynamic DT990 Edition I can say that they're not the best for all kind of enviroment. I will be using them while attending LAN parties because being closed headphones and as portable headset because they have short cable. By the way they improved with the Nuforce Icon HDP quite a bit and the soundstage appeared to be way better than before.The thing is that they sound like everything is too close to you and the bass sounds very strong but not disturbing.

Pics of the new Beyerdynamic and the PC setup:

(http://i.imgur.com/uCV1y.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/MPNIp.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Mon, 26 March 2012, 14:03:54
(http://img.tapatalk.com/4b087b6e-bcf4-e977.jpg)

Just re-cabled my Grado SR-80i's... Second time soldering and it was pretty sloppy work but they still sound good. Probably need something other than an Altoid box C-Moy for an amp...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Mon, 26 March 2012, 14:08:31
Nice! Where'd you get the yellow pads?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: roaduck on Mon, 26 March 2012, 14:44:51
I don't listen on headphones much but when I do I use two discrete systems.

As my Sugden A21a and VTL Ultimate valve preamplifier have no headphone sockets I have a Musical Fidelity X-Cans class "A" valve headphone amplifier going to a pair of Sennheiser HD 600's.For the PC I have a separate headphone amp, a QED MB45 powering Sennheiser HD 250's.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Mon, 26 March 2012, 15:08:51
Quote from: sth;557449
Nice! Where'd you get the yellow pads?

They're Sennheiser 414 pads.

http://www.amazon.com/Replacement-Cushions-Sennheiser-SRI-Series-headphones/dp/B002B4OEZ0 (http://www.amazon.com/Replacement-Cushions-Sennheiser-SRI-Series-headphones/dp/B002B4OEZ0)

Just caught this ebay auction lookin up a link, they come quarter moddded and in a multitude of colors:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/TANGERINE-Sennheiser-HD414-Pads-Grado-Alessandro-replacement-SR60-SR80-SR325-RS1-/120884472201?pt=Other_MP3_Player_Accessories&hash=item1c2546a989#ht_500wt_1361 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/TANGERINE-Sennheiser-HD414-Pads-Grado-Alessandro-replacement-SR60-SR80-SR325-RS1-/120884472201?pt=Other_MP3_Player_Accessories&hash=item1c2546a989#ht_500wt_1361)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Tue, 27 March 2012, 08:38:27
I have an AKG K550 incoming. I haven't really liked any AKG since K501, so this ought to be interesting. I want a cheap sealed can on my desk for those noisy times of the day.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jonnybastard on Sat, 31 March 2012, 08:14:52
Bought an external DAC during the week, decided on a Cambridge DacMagic Plus as it was one of the few that has all the features I was looking for and didn't cost upwards of 1k.  Previously I was using an ASUS Xonar HDAV Deluxe sound card which was reputed to have a pretty decent DAC on it already, so I was a bit hesitant going in but all that doubt went out the window after about 5 minutes of listening, daaaaaamn this thing is nice, everything just sounds so much cleaner with a lot more detail, very happy with the purchase.  
Also picked up a pair of Beyer DT770pro's a couple of weeks back as a fun pair of cans for doof doof etc, I love my DT880's but being fairly neutral they can be a bit boring for real high impact music, the 770's are the complete opposite haha they pack so much bass, the high's are a little harsh for metal but I love them for electronica and hiphop etc.

Pic of new setup, PC  ->  DacMagic+  ->  Matrix M-Stage  ->  Beyerdynamics DT880 & DT770pro's.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7279/6885710120_7f24927806_o.jpg)

One of my favorite features which didn't seem to be present on a lot of other DAC's I looked at was that it has a digital out pass through, which I run to my Yamaha receiver for when I'm using my real speakers, which is most of the time.  That meant I was able to ditch the sound card from my PC altogether which neatened it up a wee bit more as the ASUS card required an ugly molex cable that I was unable to hide :p  Could have just used the onboard optical/coax on my motherboard for the digital out but that would mean changing the audio output in windows each time that I swap between cans or speakers, a pretty minor thing but it's way more convenient the way I've got it setup now.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mysteric on Sun, 01 April 2012, 20:14:42
Any ideas for a cheap amp/DAC for the DT770 Pro 80s?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Fuzzy Dunlop on Sun, 01 April 2012, 20:34:13
Quote from: PixelVandalism;544241
My friend has some Koss portapros,
and I can not wear them,
they sound good, but they just fall off my head..
The cheapest I can find the sr80's in Australia is $140,
and that's putting me over budget with an amp.

Edit*
I don't think I will, one of my friends might though,
Not sure yet, thanks for the offer.
In order to really benefit from having an amp you need to be spending in a certain bracket. $140 is maybe up there for you but in audiophile dollars it's barely entry level. The SR80's are a great headphone by themselves, my advice is get them and screw the amp for the time being.
Quote from: PixelVandalism;552304
That's a fair bit of money.
I love the aesthetics of the HDP, I'm probably going to get a uDAC-2 for the looks, among other reasons.
For the money a uDAC is going to cost, you can really do a lot better. The technology the uDAC is built on is fairly old, and depending on where you ask NuForce have a reputation among audiophiles for being overpriced and mediocre. Yes, they look like military hardware, but if looks were the most important consideration when buying audio gear we'd all be rocking Skull Candy or V-Moda.
Quote from: PixelVandalism;552286
Aren't those stands upwards of $100?
I saw a Sieve on display in a home audio store near where I live. It's nice to look at, and on first inspection I thought it had come from Ikea; I was gobsmacked to turn it over and see the $175 price tag. For $30 or even $50 I might have gone for it, but $175? That's a rip-off. The wood grain and build quality are both good, but not outstanding. A quick search of Etsy yielded a much more compelling design – for $28:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/67310735/vinyl-record-headphone-stand

Whatever the build quality is like, the least I can say for the vinyl stand is that each one is a unique piece, not some mass-produced factory made commodity.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Tue, 03 April 2012, 07:33:30
Quote from: jonnybastard;562461

Pic of new setup, PC  ->  DacMagic+  ->  Matrix M-Stage  ->  Beyerdynamics DT880 & DT770pro's.


Glad to see another M-Stage user. I received mine a week ago and love it. Pairing it with a gamma1 lite (until my HRT Streamer ii arrives) and a pair of DT770 pros. Did the gain dip switches confuse you first time around? lol
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hamza_tm on Wed, 04 April 2012, 20:19:44
Sennheiser PC360s through an Auzentech Forte :)

Went through CAL!'s, Samson SR850, DT770, DT880 premiums to finally get here!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jonnybastard on Wed, 04 April 2012, 20:33:26
Quote from: kidchunks;565528
Did the gain dip switches confuse you first time around? lol


You mean by reading them backwards? Maybe.. :p  Such a bargain amp hey, I was set on buying a Talisman T-33h when I walked in the shop but walked out with a Matrix that was $500 cheaper lol, my ears seriously struggled to find much difference between them.

Quote from: Mackem;563970
Any ideas for a cheap amp/DAC for the DT770 Pro 80s?


The Matrix Cube seems to be reasonably well regarded as a cheap all-in-one, they've also just released an updated version of the M-Stage with a built in usb DAC that might be worth looking into, being that it's priced only ~$50 more than the regular amp version I wouldn't expect anything magical as far as the DAC goes but at least you would then have a decent amp and can look at upgrading your DAC down the track if it doesn't suit your needs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: augusto2112 on Thu, 05 April 2012, 11:19:11
Never heard about DAC/amps before, and just googled them. Should I bother buying one? Do they improve the sound quality by much?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Thu, 05 April 2012, 11:25:05
Quote from: augusto2112;567737
Never heard about DAC/amps before, and just googled them. Should I bother buying one? Do they improve the sound quality by much?
No people just spend thousands of dollars on them because when you lick them they taste like sour patch kids.

Srsly, of course they improve sound quality, by leaps and bounds. As with anything there are diminishing returns. If you're not willing to invest at least a couple hundred dollars, buy some HD280s or Grado SR 80i cans and skip the amp.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: augusto2112 on Thu, 05 April 2012, 12:34:25
Quote from: sth;567749
No people just spend thousands of dollars on them because when you lick them they taste like sour patch kids.

Srsly, of course they improve sound quality, by leaps and bounds. As with anything there are diminishing returns. If you're not willing to invest at least a couple hundred dollars, buy some HD280s or Grado SR 80i cans and skip the amp.

I have a DT770 Pro already. The question was if they improved sound quality significantly or just by a bit... Judging by your comment they help a lot right? I'll see if I find a cheap one for me.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 05 April 2012, 13:02:25
Like he said, cheap DACs aren't worth it. If you're looking for recommendations, I will go ahead and recommend the Bifrost by Schiit.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Thu, 05 April 2012, 13:13:10
Quote from: augusto2112;567844
I'll see if I find a cheap one for me.

You can check out JDS Labs (http://www.jdslabs.com/) for the cmoybb. John is pretty cool and he'll answer any questions you have. You tell him what headphones you're using and he'll build the amp to specification.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: augusto2112 on Thu, 05 April 2012, 13:18:18
Quote from: Ragnorock;567879
Like he said, cheap DACs aren't worth it. If you're looking for recommendations, I will go ahead and recommend the Bifrost by Schiit.

Looked it up, and I guess I'll have to do without DACs for a while...

PS: nice signature :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Thu, 05 April 2012, 13:23:35
Quote from: Ragnorock;567879
Like he said, cheap DACs aren't worth it. If you're looking for recommendations, I will go ahead and recommend the Bifrost by Schiit.

Do you have any for/against opionion on the Valhalla? I'm really not interested in going down the high-end loudspeaker route and it's a full $100 cheaper than the bifrost DAC.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Thu, 05 April 2012, 17:03:26
I got one of those Altoids C-Moy amps from an eBay seller about a year ago. I guess I'm supposed to be using a DAC on my pc though? Using it to power 80i's...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 05 April 2012, 17:22:19
the amb gamma1 kit is probably the best cheap usb dac. the aliendac and its clones are not bad either
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Thu, 05 April 2012, 17:30:47
So the point of a DAC is better (curious how?) conversion of digital signal vs something like the Wasapi plugin w/ CMOY amp?

I guess DAC is like an external sound card just for the headphones?

congrats on 1k post mkawa
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 06 April 2012, 00:19:01
Digital to analog conversion is not 100% accurate. The way they reconstruct the analog signal can color sound. Most thing already have DAC in it already. Even the cheapest soundcard has a DAC, since you can just plug your headphones with analog connections right up to it. WASAPI is still in the digital domain. All it does is bypass alot of the audio stack to reduce latency, and less things messing with the still digital signal. DAC only affect the digital to analog part, then sends the signal to be amplified (pre-amp), then on to power amp, which could be internal or connected externally via transports.
DAC COULD be a soundcard. Like those USB connected one that actually do act like a soundcard. However DAC is not necessarily a soundcard, like those you connect via toslink, which still require a soundcard present. You could connect your DVD or SACD player, for example, directly to the toslink of the DAC to bypass the digital analog conversion inside the player. Even home appliances doesn't always have the best DAC implementation. DAC is one of those things that isn't too easy to hear the difference. It is mainly small detail and the way it color (or not color) the sound. Law of deminishing return hits pretty fast. Though, I do remember the days we had to spent $1-2k+ on a good DAC that sound as good as today's $3-500 DACs.

PS, I purposely left out the physicals like design, construction and components or the software part like sampling rate of the DAC. Those certainly influence how the DAC sounds. There is a lot of audiophile voodoo here. Read as much into them as you want to.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Fri, 06 April 2012, 00:59:31
Quote from: laffindude;568501

PS, I purposely left out the physicals like design, construction and components or the software part like sampling rate of the DAC. Those certainly influence how the DAC sounds. There is a lot of audiophile voodoo here. Read as much into them as you want to.

Not sure if id call this voodoo as much as just better engineering to handle noise and higher bitrate files.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 06 April 2012, 01:12:20
Sure if you're talking about the tangibles.
Better engineered parts don't always sound better.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hoff on Sat, 07 April 2012, 06:17:45
Hello,

I am looking to buy the Sennheiser PC 360's and was wondering whether anyone had a smililar issue.

I have just bought a Mechanical Keyboard (Flico Mastertouch 2) with Brown switches. These aren't the quitest keyboards in the world as most of you know and sets off the voice activation for me in Mumble or TS a lot of the time, which isn't great for peole i am playing with.

With these more expensive headsets will this problem be errased?

Thanks,

Hoff.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Sat, 07 April 2012, 08:19:43
Finally received my hrt streamer ii.

Semi portable setup now consist of a m-stage, external usb, dac and headphones..LOL

Definitely a step up from my gamma1 lite. Not sure if I want to keep it though. The clicks and pops are present even with a powered hub. Even did the firmware update. May try some different USB cables.

Shame, cause I'm really digging the sound. :(

May have to jump on a bitfrost if I can't get these pop and click issues resolved.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Fuzzy Dunlop on Sat, 07 April 2012, 13:26:10
Quote from: augusto2112;567737
Never heard about DAC/amps before, and just googled them. Should I bother buying one? Do they improve the sound quality by much?
That depends on what your current setup is like. What kind of headphones do you own, what are they connected to and how are they connected? If it's a computer or MP3 player, what's the bitrate of the audio you're listening to?

A DAC and an amp perform 2 different tasks, although these are often combined within the same product; a DAC (Digital to Analog Converter) functions much like your computer's sound card, while an amplifier provides additional power to your headphones. Most/all headphones will benefit from a better source (i.e. DAC), while not all benefit in the same way – or to the same degree – from amplification. You don't need to spend thousands of dollars on a DAC/amp to get great results, however as a general rule if your headphones are audiophile grade ($500+), you can reasonably expect to spend at least as much money again on a DAC/amp.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LuvULongTime on Sat, 07 April 2012, 16:21:11
I A/B'd a bifrost against a Titanium HD.  They sounded the same so the bifrost went back.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lorem3k on Sat, 07 April 2012, 19:41:29
Quote from: mkawa;568136
the amb gamma1 kit is probably the best cheap usb dac. the aliendac and its clones are not bad either
If you can spare the $300 and aren't into DIY, the Matrix Mini-i is a great entry-level DAC. It has a really great level of detail and a nice warm sound, and it can handle up to 24/192 (only 16/48 over USB though). The amp section is pretty decent as well, nothing to write home about though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Sun, 08 April 2012, 18:44:33
Quote from: LuvULongTime;570074
I A/B'd a bifrost against a Titanium HD.  They sounded the same so the bifrost went back.

Did you let the bifrost burn in? Also, what head phones did you use for your testing?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 13 April 2012, 13:54:11
/not a believer of burning in of solid state electronics.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Fri, 13 April 2012, 14:45:30
So would it be noticeably beneficial to have a DAC (sound card/ usb interface) for sound and then a cmoy for power? This question is specific to Grado Sr-80i's with altoid cmoy on a PC. Sorry if that is kind of general.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lorem3k on Fri, 13 April 2012, 18:48:08
Quote from: JesuswasaZombie;574776
So would it be noticeably beneficial to have a DAC (sound card/ usb interface) for sound and then a cmoy for power? This question is specific to Grado Sr-80i's with altoid cmoy on a PC. Sorry if that is kind of general.
With an SR80i, I think the money would be better spent upgrading your headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Fri, 13 April 2012, 20:06:33
on the contrary i think sr80s are good stuff. they're pretty sensitive so they don't need a whole lot of fancy amplifier. the weakest link in an onboard PC audio -> sr80 chain is the onboard audio. i would consider a cheap outboard USB dac.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Fri, 13 April 2012, 20:26:02
I get my K240's on Monday :whoo:
There are so many amps and dacs to choose from though :pout:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LuvULongTime on Tue, 17 April 2012, 11:52:29
Quote from: kidchunks;570946
Did you let the bifrost burn in? Also, what head phones did you use for your testing?


36-40 hours, HD800s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Wed, 18 April 2012, 07:44:08
What do you guys think of the Little Dot MKII?
I would be using it with a DAC like the Alien or Bantom.
I don't know what DAC I want to get yet though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 18 April 2012, 08:43:06
Do you have time to warm your tubes? I hardly ever listen to my tubies because I'll want to warm them up for 2-30 minutes before I listen. It just doesn't fit in with how I listen now.
What version of K240 (and other headphones) are you gonna run?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parak on Wed, 18 April 2012, 08:45:41
Quote from: PixelVandalism;577778
I don't know what DAC I want to get yet though.

If you're not in a rush, I'd suggest waiting for the nwavguy odac.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Wed, 18 April 2012, 08:45:47
Quote from: laffindude;577810
Do you have time to warm your tubes? I hardly ever listen to my tubies because I'll want to warm them up for 2-30 minutes before I listen. It just doesn't fit in with how I listen now.
What version of K240 (and other headphones) are you gonna run?

I have time to warm them, I'm running the studio version.
I also plan on using it as a pre-amp for some kind of speaker setup.

Do you have any idea of what the price of the odac will be?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parak on Wed, 18 April 2012, 09:11:06
Quote from: PixelVandalism;577814
Do you have any idea of what the price of the odac will be?

The assembled PCB is available for preorder for $100 from JDS Labs, expect to pay more for one inside an enclosure. They will also sell an assembled O2 with the ODAC in it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: emptyk on Wed, 18 April 2012, 09:13:04
Quote from: mkawa;575022
on the contrary i think sr80s are good stuff. they're pretty sensitive so they don't need a whole lot of fancy amplifier. the weakest link in an onboard PC audio -> sr80 chain is the onboard audio. i would consider a cheap outboard USB dac.

+1 for sure.

JesuswasaZombie:  Get a Fiio E10 (something like $75.00 on Amazon).  You'll hear an improvement for sure.  Come back here and let me know how it sounds.  I am thinking about getting one to use with my laptop.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 18 April 2012, 09:15:46
MKII is a OTL amp though. Those are usually better with higher impedance phones. K240 isn't an efficient phone, but there should still have enough oomph, unless you want ear-splittingly loud gain. Lower sensitivity is probably good, to raise it from the noise floor. Sky is blue, sun is bright, and tube amps have hiss. Such is life :)
I only got to play with a MKIV, and they sounded excellent with a DT880 2003. Probably a little too warm on the newer DT880/600.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Wed, 18 April 2012, 18:03:41
Quote from: emptyk;577848
+1 for sure.

JesuswasaZombie:  Get a Fiio E10 (something like $75.00 on Amazon).  You'll hear an improvement for sure.  Come back here and let me know how it sounds.  I am thinking about getting one to use with my laptop.

I'll check it out, thanks.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Thu, 19 April 2012, 01:10:00
Quote from: laffindude;577851
MKII is a OTL amp though. Those are usually better with higher impedance phones. K240 isn't an efficient phone, but there should still have enough oomph, unless you want ear-splittingly loud gain. Lower sensitivity is probably good, to raise it from the noise floor. Sky is blue, sun is bright, and tube amps have hiss. Such is life :)
I only got to play with a MKIV, and they sounded excellent with a DT880 2003. Probably a little too warm on the newer DT880/600.

What would be better at the $150 ish (including shipping to australia) for my phones, and as a pre amp for a later system?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 19 April 2012, 05:52:32
Better is a vague term. Most solid state amps should give you more power at lower ohm load. However, whether or not you need the extra gain, I don't know. Probably not. You should head to a few stores with your K240 and audition a few amps to find what suit your taste the most. I think you'll find the differences between amps is hugely overblown.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Thu, 19 April 2012, 06:08:08
Quote from: laffindude;578683
Better is a vague term. Most solid state amps should give you more power at lower ohm load. However, whether or not you need the extra gain, I don't know. Probably not. You should head to a few stores with your K240 and audition a few amps to find what suit your taste the most. I think you'll find the differences between amps is hugely overblown.


I don't know of any audio stores that sell head-amps.
I love how tubes look, that it really why I am looking at them.
Would the Little Dot MK1+ be better for me?
Or something like the http://www.china-hifi-audio.com/xiangsheng-dac01a-dac-decodersheadphone-amplifier-black-p-502.html?zenid=qkrfinifpcn61lpqt76ocghe47 or http://www.china-hifi-audio.com/qinpu-a3-a3-hifi-vacuum-tube-integrated-amplifier-chpo-p-162.html?zenid=qkrfinifpcn61lpqt76ocghe47 ?
The problem with those is how much they would be in Australia, as I haven't really looked.
I've "auditioned" a FiiO E7, and it doesn't sound, powerful? enough to drive the cans? compared to a NAD 3220PE that is at my house.

I'll see what if I can find some stores on the weekend, but I highly doubt it.

*edit* I just realised that the MK1+ only has RCA in.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 19 April 2012, 06:54:52
MKI+ has more powerful amp at low impedance (200mW@32ohm vs 100mW@32ohm). It certainly doesn't look as cool and concessions had to be made for being a portable amp.

Not sure how much you can pick up a FUBAR IV (or plus version) for. Those actually don't sound half bad for the price. I saw them on 50% off, but I don't know how much it'll be shipped to you or are there taxes involved.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Thu, 19 April 2012, 07:32:17
Quote from: laffindude;578700
MKI+ has more powerful amp at low impedance (200mW@32ohm vs 100mW@32ohm). It certainly doesn't look as cool and concessions had to be made for being a portable amp.

Not sure how much you can pick up a FUBAR IV (or plus version) for. Those actually don't sound half bad for the price. I saw them on 50% off, but I don't know how much it'll be shipped to you or are there taxes involved.

Shipping something like that from the US, would probably be about $40?
We don't get import taxes on international packages.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 27 April 2012, 03:26:44
Hmm T90. If it has the same bass as the DT990 but less treble, I am buying one. T70 is a huge improvement over DT770, I wonder how big of a change it'll be since 990 is very good already (aside from the treble).
Another on the current shopping list is Philips Fidelio L1. I was gonna get this for my basshead can, but I am gonna wait and compare to T90.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Namkung on Fri, 27 April 2012, 16:14:24
loving my hd650 + little dot dac i + mk iv se set up. :music:
saving for hd800 + WA2 +_+
i would strongly recommend little dot's products to anyone if you are in the market for OTL tube amps .
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mysteric on Fri, 27 April 2012, 16:19:02
Finally took the plunge on the DT 770 Pros 80Ω. I did try and order them a while back but they've been backordered on a few sites. Anyone else use these?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 27 April 2012, 23:13:13
Quote from: Namkung;584163
saving for hd800 + WA2 +_+


Listen before you buy. While technically good, I just can't listen to them. Treble will be a huge culture shock for a HD650 owner.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Sun, 29 April 2012, 16:47:21
After poking around nwavguy's blog, I think I'm going to try and flip my bellari vp530 and pickup the O2 with the ODAC from JDSlabs... I love his transparent anti snake oil breakdowns of products and I think after seeing benchmarks of the FiiO dacs etc I can't really go wrong on his price point.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: prava on Sun, 29 April 2012, 16:59:13
Quote from: JesuswasaZombie;585792
After poking around nwavguy's blog, I think I'm going to try and flip my bellari vp530 and pickup the O2 with the ODAC from JDSlabs... I love his transparent anti snake oil breakdowns of products and I think after seeing benchmarks of the FiiO dacs etc I can't really go wrong on his price point.

I'd wait until the release the full desktop product (the ODA), as it will have a better layout and better connectivity. For instance, with the O2+ODAC you have the power plug on the front, and only 3.5mm jacks available. With the fully blown product we will have big ass jacks and more connectivity...unless you want the portability the O2 offers, of course ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Sun, 29 April 2012, 17:22:50
Oh, that's what I meant, I'm getting confused between all these Oproduct names >_<

The last ODA post I saw was from 2011, when is the projected release?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SmallFry on Sun, 29 April 2012, 17:46:35
I just got a pair of Bose OE2's to replace my Dr. Dre Beats... I do NOT recommend the Beats... The drivers crapped out in a few weeks of using them. The Bose ones are much nicer in my opinion.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Sun, 29 April 2012, 18:25:40
Aw, SmallFry... do you have the ability to return them? :happy:

Some people really prefer Bose, and I don't want to sound like an audiophile snob, but I am personally not a fan of the sound (especially at the price you pay for the name).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SmallFry on Sun, 29 April 2012, 21:11:12
They are certainly better than my Dr. Dre Beats. (They are a Christmas gift from my parents) I will continue to use the Bose ones... I like them. :smile: Thanks for your AUDIOPHILE SNOBBINESS though... Just kidding! Thanks for your comments, if I have any problems, I'm sure I'll remember this post.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Sun, 29 April 2012, 21:17:42
Quote from: JesuswasaZombie;585829
The last ODA post I saw was from 2011, when is the projected release?

The goal was get the ODAC out as he felt that was a necessary component of the ODA and he felt that it'd be handy as a standalone too or something along those lines.  ODA should be back on the front burner at this point and I'm hoping for Xmas.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kidchunks on Mon, 30 April 2012, 09:59:34
Sad day, think my m-stage is damaged. Right channel is lower than the left. Had to manually adjust the left and right channels to get a balance. Going to see if I can get a friend to repair it. I was liking the HRTSII/M-Stage combo too. =\

Anyone try the Yulong D100 MKII? Heard they've made some minor tweaks and it's only $10 more than the original ($440) from tamaudio.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tsangan on Mon, 30 April 2012, 14:33:21
Quote from: Namkung;584163
loving my hd650 + little dot dac i + mk iv se set up. :music:
saving for hd800 + WA2 +_+
i would strongly recommend little dot's products to anyone if you are in the market for OTL tube amps .
I completely misread the model you were looking at whoops
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Mon, 30 April 2012, 14:40:13
The WA 2 is just as suited for the HD800s as the 6SE, in fact some would say its even better. The design of the WA2 caters to high impedance cans, which is what the HD800s are. The numbering system Woo has isn't logical. The 2 isn't at the low end of the spectrum, its actually $40 more than the 6SE. The key difference is that it is about the nicest OTL amp most people are willing to buy.

But yeah a WA6 will work just fine with HD 800s, just be sure to get the Sophia 274b or it won't do them justice.

http://wooaudio.com/products/wa2.html

From Jack Woo himself: (The question being which is better for K701s)

Hello David,

Thank you for your interests.

You are correct the 6SE offers much power to spare which is desirable for
harder-to-drive headphones such as the AKG's. It is up to your personal
sound preference to choose either the WA2 or the 6SE. If you look for tight
control, great dynamic control, speed, and attack, the WA6-SE is the best
choice. If you like a warmer, relaxed, smooth sound, the WA2 will work
better.

Please let me know if you have further question.

Best regards,
Jack
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Mon, 30 April 2012, 14:52:36
Wow, I had no idea there were bottle heads lurking in here.  I'm not a huge headphone guy, but I have tried a few OTL projects on headwize.  Since my headphones are all 32-ohm, the performance hasn't been great.  I recently picked up a set of small OPTs from Edcor to build a proper headphone amp.  That project is stuck in the cue behind a few other fire bottle projects, though.

If you like to tinker, there are some good projects out there.  Pete Millett has a nice turn-key PCB-based one now that uses cheap compactrons.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tsangan on Mon, 30 April 2012, 14:58:05
Quote from: Ragnorock;586548
The WA 2 is just as suited for the HD800s as the 6SE, in fact some would say its even better. The design of the WA2 caters to high impedance cans, which is what the HD800s are. The numbering system Woo has isn't logical. The 2 isn't at the low end of the spectrum, its actually $40 more than the 6SE. The key difference is that it is about the nicest OTL amp most people are willing to buy.

But yeah a WA6 will work just fine with HD 800s, just be sure to get the Sophia 274b or it won't do them justice.

http://wooaudio.com/products/wa2.html

From Jack Woo himself: (The question being which is better for K701s)

Hello David,

Thank you for your interests.

You are correct the 6SE offers much power to spare which is desirable for
harder-to-drive headphones such as the AKG's. It is up to your personal
sound preference to choose either the WA2 or the 6SE. If you look for tight
control, great dynamic control, speed, and attack, the WA6-SE is the best
choice. If you like a warmer, relaxed, smooth sound, the WA2 will work
better.

Please let me know if you have further question.

Best regards,
Jack
Nice!

I actually misread I read WA3 instead of WA2 :rofl:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Namkung on Mon, 30 April 2012, 17:30:59
^
WA2 vs 6-SE is no brainer for me personally as I NEED a preamp for my stereo system.

i love my current setup but the 650s arent the best when it comes to the stuff i listen to (mostly classical / sopranos) T__T
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: prava on Mon, 30 April 2012, 21:18:13
For classical, IMO, the K701 beat the crap out of the HD650 (I have both). The mids and higs are SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO good the HD650 will feel ashamed of themselves. The only problem I have with the K701 is that they are not a "balanced" headphone, as they are bass-lacking....but classical music has never need any sort of bass so for that purpose I wouldn't hesitate.

You see, If you like all sorts of music the HD650 is a good pairing (contrary to the K701, which are very specific. Listening to electronic music or any music that relies on bass on those AKG will make you almost cry), but if you know exactly the music you will be listening to, K701 is an awesome can. Just remember you need a proper amp to drive them as they require tons of voltage (with a low output impedance to not many amps can deliver).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Namkung on Mon, 30 April 2012, 21:43:25
^ mm.. i listened to hd600s and to be honest, i felt that even they were better than the 650s for classical .
i figure i might as well upgrade big time and go for the hd800s . i have not had the chance to listen to them yet and I will make sure to listen to it before making the purchase obviously but from what I have read, they are pretty good for classical. + i don't exclusively listen to classical haha. I do want to try out the k701s though. i think those look awesome
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Tue, 01 May 2012, 00:00:40
Quote from: prava;586916
For classical, IMO, the K701 beat the crap out of the HD650 (I have both). The mids and higs are SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO good the HD650 will feel ashamed of themselves. The only problem I have with the K701 is that they are not a "balanced" headphone, as they are bass-lacking....but classical music has never need any sort of bass so for that purpose I wouldn't hesitate.

You see, If you like all sorts of music the HD650 is a good pairing (contrary to the K701, which are very specific. Listening to electronic music or any music that relies on bass on those AKG will make you almost cry), but if you know exactly the music you will be listening to, K701 is an awesome can. Just remember you need a proper amp to drive them as they require tons of voltage (with a low output impedance to not many amps can deliver).
Okay, so you probably haven't listened to K701s with proper amping. The bass REALLY suffers without it, and without a proper amp I can definitely agree they are light on bass. However, when properly amped, they are very balanced. There is plenty of bass, and I listen to A LOT of dubstep/techno. They do really shine with classical the most, but the do make me cry when listening to Obsidia FLACs... out of JOY.

For the record, I'm using AKG K701s with a WA6SE with tung sol 6SN7s and an EML 5U4G/Sophia Princess 274b for rectifiers... as well as various other driver tubes. I have some K271 MKIIs both amped and unamped, and the 701s when amped have the most bass, over the closed back 271s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Tue, 01 May 2012, 00:53:26
K701 doesn't agree with my ears. The shrieky upper midrange/lower treble is what does it in for me. No coherent center stage is another booboo. The BIGGEST negative against it is you need to play them loud to sound good. They're absolutely anemic at lower volume*. This was a few years ago when I still had my Headroom DAC/amp combo. I did hear that the newer drivers have more bass, so I may need to try the new ones.

*My preferred levels is probably much lower than average. I can't get my K550 playing quietly enough on one of my weaker amps without running into channel imbalance. At this lower volume, it really highlight how much headphones, even a highly efficient one, benefit from amps. Plugged directly into the computer, and the subbass is flabby and lacks punch.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: prava on Tue, 01 May 2012, 15:09:47
Quote from: Ragnorock;587034
Okay, so you probably haven't listened to K701s with proper amping. The bass REALLY suffers without it, and without a proper amp I can definitely agree they are light on bass. However, when properly amped, they are very balanced. There is plenty of bass, and I listen to A LOT of dubstep/techno. They do really shine with classical the most, but the do make me cry when listening to Obsidia FLACs... out of JOY.

For the record, I'm using AKG K701s with a WA6SE with tung sol 6SN7s and an EML 5U4G/Sophia Princess 274b for rectifiers... as well as various other driver tubes. I have some K271 MKIIs both amped and unamped, and the 701s when amped have the most bass, over the closed back 271s.

I believe a Matrix M-Stage is more than enough to power the K701, so I don't think they will get any better. With that said, though, it may be because you aren't using transparent amps and, thus, why you get such powerup in the bass section.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Tue, 01 May 2012, 15:49:31
AKGs tend to hurt my head.  Their head band design kind of sucks...like an old pair from the 70s that I had as a kid.  Can you guys really wear them comfortably for hours?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: prava on Wed, 02 May 2012, 08:01:46
Quote from: rknize;587543
AKGs tend to hurt my head.  Their head band design kind of sucks...like an old pair from the 70s that I had as a kid.  Can you guys really wear them comfortably for hours?

You just get used to them. I couldn't wear them for more than 30 minutes at first, but know I don't feel any pain and can wear them for hours no problem.

But yes, at first they first like having your skull drilled...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Wed, 02 May 2012, 09:18:08
Quote from: prava;587517
I believe a Matrix M-Stage is more than enough to power the K701, so I don't think they will get any better. With that said, though, it may be because you aren't using transparent amps and, thus, why you get such powerup in the bass section.
I disagree, you're comparing the most entry level ($200) amp considered suitable for the 701s, to a $1050 amp with >$300 in tubes on it at any given point. Yeah tubes may be less analytically pure signal wise than a solid state, but the parts used in the M-Stage aren't exactly stellar and tubes keep it analog.

And I dunno about the headband design, it never hurt my head and I think the design is great.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: prava on Wed, 02 May 2012, 09:26:04
Quote from: Ragnorock;588077
I disagree, you're comparing the most entry level ($200) amp considered suitable for the 701s, to a $1050 amp with >$300 in tubes on it at any given point. Yeah tubes may be less analytically pure signal wise than a solid state, but the parts used in the M-Stage aren't exactly stellar and tubes keep it analog.

And I dunno about the headband design, it never hurt my head and I think the design is great.

Price has nothing to do with quality, as the M-Stage is a literal copy of the well known Lehman Black Cube Linear, that costs almost a grand. Also, tubes keep it analog? lol? Its well known that tubes add stuff to the signal, nothing to do with analog...
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 02 May 2012, 10:01:35
Amp is not going to magically fix the flaws. If his ears don't like K701, no amount of amping will fix that.

It is so easy to fall into the "more expensive = better" trap. Not that I don't think WA6 is a good amp. Then again, I liked the sound of my CEntrance DACmini more than my much more expensive tubie. If tubes are changing the sound so much, is it still hi-fi? ;o
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Wed, 02 May 2012, 11:07:24
Quote from: prava;588085
Price has nothing to do with quality, as the M-Stage is a literal copy of the well known Lehman Black Cube Linear, that costs almost a grand. Also, tubes keep it analog? lol? Its well known that tubes add stuff to the signal, nothing to do with analog...

Tubes add less "stuff" to the signal than any transistor can.  In fact, certain triodes are still the most linear discrete voltage amplification devices that exist.  It's all about circuit topology.  The picture is complicated, but the short story is that transistors have poor linearity but are small (think IC) and cheap.  So you can create nearly-ideal amplification circuits using many transistors using various types of feedback loops and so forth.  How this circuit is designed and how it recovers from overload/etc is where the differences lie.  Some of them are really good.  Many of the amp ICs found in consumer electronics are not so great.  When combined with cheapskate power supplies, they are awful.

Tubes are large and expensive.  You can build a fairly complex tube amp that has nearly perfect linearity using similar techniques as above.  I have built many.  The only sane way to get high power (> 20W) is with a push-pull topology, which will inherently need global negative feedback and some careful design choices.  Sometimes you can use local feedback and get away from global feedback (the enemy of overload recovery).  One amp that I built does this with astonishing ease (and puts out ~100WPC to boot)!

The amps you guys are talking about here are single-ended and probably have no or some local feedback.  You can get away with this using tubes because they are inherently very linear.  SE amps tend to have a dominant second harmonic and low odd harmonics.  The human ear also has a dominant 2nd harmonic, and it is believed that this may be why SE amps have that "warm", pleasant sound to them.  Push-pull amps will tend have dominant odd harmonics and therefore need feedback to quell them.  Odd harmonics sound "harsh".

Anyway, I'll get off my tube soapbox....
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Wed, 02 May 2012, 12:58:16
The bottom line is that you need to go with whatever sounds the best to your ears.  :)  Sorry about the rant...you hit a nerve.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: prava on Wed, 02 May 2012, 14:05:41
Quote from: rknize;588255
The bottom line is that you need to go with whatever sounds the best to your ears.  :)  Sorry about the rant...you hit a nerve.

Only chance to do that is by blind testing, I'm afraid ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Wed, 02 May 2012, 15:28:04
Quote from: prava;588291
Only chance to do that is by blind testing, I'm afraid ;)

Well, for very subtle differences, yeah.  But it's pretty easy to hear the difference between a conventional PP amp and an SE one.

Anyway, to get this thread back on topic, I'm currently listening with a pair of cheap Sennheiser HD-428 headphones.  Someone stole my Grados off my desk at work a while back and I bought these from a local electronics store in a pinch.  They are not bad for what I paid.  Honestly, since I listen through my desk PC's mediocre on-board sound, it doesn't matter all that much.  I also listen to a lot of podcasts, like ASoT.  High fidelity MP3 compression artifacts are better heard through medium-fi headphones.  :)

Since the Grados were my only good set, what I have at home is just a pair of inexpensive Sony headphones.  MDR-XD200, or some such.  Again, not great but not bad either.  Perfectly fine for listening through my PC.  If I want to do serious listening, I don't do it with headphones.

Every time I start looking at better headphones, I get lost in a sea of possibilities and prices.  One thing I didn't like about the SR80 was long-term ear comfort.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Wed, 02 May 2012, 16:03:32
Quote from: rknize;588148
Tubes add less "stuff" to the signal than any transistor can.  In fact, certain triodes are still the most linear discrete voltage amplification devices that exist.  It's all about circuit topology.  The picture is complicated, but the short story is that transistors have poor linearity but are small (think IC) and cheap.  So you can create nearly-ideal amplification circuits using many transistors using various types of feedback loops and so forth.  How this circuit is designed and how it recovers from overload/etc is where the differences lie.  Some of them are really good.  Many of the amp ICs found in consumer electronics are not so great.  When combined with cheapskate power supplies, they are awful.

Tubes are large and expensive.  You can build a fairly complex tube amp that has nearly perfect linearity using similar techniques as above.  I have built many.  The only sane way to get high power (> 20W) is with a push-pull topology, which will inherently need global negative feedback and some careful design choices.  Sometimes you can use local feedback and get away from global feedback (the enemy of overload recovery).  One amp that I built does this with astonishing ease (and puts out ~100WPC to boot)!

The amps you guys are talking about here are single-ended and probably have no or some local feedback.  You can get away with this using tubes because they are inherently very linear.  SE amps tend to have a dominant second harmonic and low odd harmonics.  The human ear also has a dominant 2nd harmonic, and it is believed that this may be why SE amps have that "warm", pleasant sound to them.  Push-pull amps will tend have dominant odd harmonics and therefore need feedback to quell them.  Odd harmonics sound "harsh".

Anyway, I'll get off my tube soapbox....
I agree with this, and yeah my amp is single ended but coupled with an output transformer to get the juice.

I hear what you guys are saying though. As I haven't tried an M-stage, I can't make a fair comparison. I did do my research when buying this amp though, and I feel like the extra cost was 100% justified over something like a Lyr or an M-Stage. Also, when I say the sound is different when amped, I mean that the AKGs are no longer anemic in the bass section because they have the voltage on tap when asked for. The tubes don't make it sound super warm, or color the reference spec sound you get from the 701s to begin with... they just sound how 701s are supposed to sound.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: J-P on Wed, 02 May 2012, 18:22:45
Have any of you peeps tried the super-cheapo-plastic-fantastic Superlux HD668b? It's shocking how good they are for $30. I mean... old news I think, but I picked up a pair last month, modded them a little (took out filters + opened up the backs) and these things sound GREAT. The only bad point is that there is no isolation... at home though, or where people don't mind hearing them - they are ossum.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: prava on Wed, 02 May 2012, 19:04:57
Quote from: J-P;588520
Have any of you peeps tried the super-cheapo-plastic-fantastic Superlux HD668b? It's shocking how good they are for $30. I mean... old news I think, but I picked up a pair last month, modded them a little (took out filters + opened up the backs) and these things sound GREAT. The only bad point is that there is no isolation... at home though, or where people don't mind hearing them - they are ossum.

Deffinitely not suited for porn when you are not alone at home xd
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 02 May 2012, 20:42:30
Hmmm, so AKG K 272 HD... or DT770 Pro 250?  Any thoughts?


Or perhaps the K 271 MK II ?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 03 May 2012, 01:11:09
My most recent "headphone amp":

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49752[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]49751[/ATTACH]

It was originally built by my dad in the '60s.  I completely refurbished and rebuilt it using a new power supply circuit.  Puts out around 60WPC.

This is the amp I spoke about before, using "Schade" feedback:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49753[/ATTACH]

That one was designed by Pete Millett, who intended it as a ~17WPC amp using television sweep tubes as the finals.  It is a very conservative design.  With bigger finals and lots more voltage on the plates, 80-100WPC can be reached.

Pete has a rather nice headphone amp project for the adventurous: the Jonokuchi.  It's on my list of things to try.

http://www.pmillett.com/Jonokuchi.htm

Here are my flea-power amps, both are Tubelab designs.  The SSE (8-14WPC, depending which output tubes and triode vs ultralinear):

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49756[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]49757[/ATTACH]

The TSE (2 or 8WPC, depending if you runs 45s or 300Bs).  Setup with 45s, it makes a decent headphone amp, actually.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49758[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]49759[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 03 May 2012, 01:49:28
Those are some pretty amps.
I honestly think properly designed modern Class A SS amp sound very good already. I wouldn't trade my tubies for SS amp for my bass, but for headphones? Not so sure.Cheaper not so well designed tube amps are not going to sound better than a SS. Care into designing the circuits and picking components are probably worth more than tube vs SS.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 03 May 2012, 11:19:06
Oh man those are gorgeous. Moar plzz. Are those 300bs getting gassy inside or are they just painted to look like that. The blue glow looks like they might be wearing out.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 03 May 2012, 13:09:17
Quote from: Ragnorock;589105
Oh man those are gorgeous. Moar plzz. Are those 300bs getting gassy inside or are they just painted to look like that. The blue glow looks like they might be wearing out.


Some of these pictures were taken with my old camera, which could not do long exposures worth a crap.  If you look carefully at the 300B mesh plates, the glow in on the glass.  This is a phenomenon known as tube florescence, which occurs because of impurities in the glass envelope.  Electrons that don't make it to the plate will strike the glass and cause the impurities to glow.  You'll usually see this in line with gaps in the plate structure.  In the case of the 300Bs, it's probably due to the meshed plates.  Now if you see blue or purple haze inside the envelope, especially in and around the cage (behind the plate), then you likely have a gassy tube:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49812[/ATTACH]
(not my amp, but an extreme case using a 211 transmitter tube)

Some more tube glow for you.  These are the vintage 8417s that came with this amp.  My dad bought them in the early '70s for < $1 each.  

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49796[/ATTACH]

Here is my ST-70 right after the rebuild some years ago:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49790[/ATTACH]

This is a close up of a strange florescences that happens around the screens of SED's EL34s.  It has something to do with the coatings the SED uses on their screens.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49794[/ATTACH]

This is Tubelab's SPP.  I was one of George's "beta testers" for his kit, so I tossed it in this lock box.  I use it in my shop:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49793[/ATTACH]

Here it is during a bench test.  There were some issues with the design at first:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49795[/ATTACH]

More pictures and info here:

http://www.knizefamily.net/russ/category/electronics/tubeaudio/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 03 May 2012, 14:23:18
OK, so this thread has me looking at DACs again.  I guess I'm looking for a ~$300 all-in-one (DAC+amp)?  The Matrix Cube seems to fit the bill well, but it has some shortcomings.  I am somewhat intrigued by the Maverick Tubemagic D1.  It seems like a real hit on head-fi.  Thoughts?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 03 May 2012, 14:27:30
Hmm, considering how well off you seem to be in the amp section, I would just go for a standalone, but I'm not sure what you're planning on using it for. I have my eyes on a Schiit Bifrost though, so much want... but the Matrix is a good DAC too.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 03 May 2012, 14:38:04
Those are all power amps that live in my recroom (or my shop when they are apart).  I don't use headphones with them.  I'm looking for something to put on my (somewhat crowded) desk to serve as a replacement for my sound card outputs.  But you do make a good point.  What DAC are you using?

Oh...and I have to know...do you game through your tube amp?  :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 03 May 2012, 14:52:33
At the moment I don't have a DAC, just the ****ty onboard DAC in either my MBP or my gaming tower, but yeah, I have used it to game on before. The problem is that when I use it on the gaming rig, the mobo has so much signal noise that when I run it through the amp I get a noticeable hum, so I usually bypass the amp and just deal with it. When gaming on my laptop though, it does sound pretty sweet... its mostly the headphones, but so many times have I turned around thinking that noise was in the room... and it wasn't.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 03 May 2012, 15:04:00
The hum is probably a ground loop, since both the computer case and the amp are earthed.  Are they both plugged into the same wall outlet/power strip?  Have you tried clamping a wire between your PC and your amp chassis?  There is a little trick you can do to the safety ground of your amp to break the ground loop, if you are adventurous.  :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 03 May 2012, 15:27:33
That's a good point, and I will try that. I assume you mean that is the trick? I'm an enthusiast, not an engineer lol.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 03 May 2012, 15:35:08
No, the trick involved busting the thing open and doing a bit of soldering.  :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 03 May 2012, 15:58:30
Been there, had to modify the metal plate everything was mounted to as it had bowed down and the tube sockets were angled such that I couldn't fit some of my fatter tubes without the glass touching the side of the socket hole in the case. I didn't do any soldering though, since it didn't require any and I don't have any such tools anymore.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 03 May 2012, 16:10:00
Ah, I see.  Well, for the record, the trick involves putting 2 series pairs of high-current diodes in parallel at opposite polarities between the chassis ground and the signal ground of the amp.  It's another trick from Pete Millett:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49874[/ATTACH]

This gives the signal ground ~ +/- 1.4V of wiggle room with respect to earth ground.  The diodes are selected to have much greater current carrying capacity than the unit's safety fuse so that they can still blow the fuse in the event of some electrical failure inside of the amp.  It works well to kill typical ground loops.  I've been doing this in all my amps.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Namkung on Thu, 03 May 2012, 18:12:38
I used to hear some static noise when I had my DAC connected to my computer via USB.
was fixed by using optical out since that isolates the power from the computer or something =S though since you are using an onboard dac, i guess this isn't an option.

@rknize
I am not too sure about the maverick tubemagic but the nuforce icon hdp is a pretty good dac/amp combo too that you might want to consider!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Heisenberg on Thu, 03 May 2012, 20:27:29
ATH AD-700 are my all time favorites when it comes to value relative to performance.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 03 May 2012, 23:50:01
Quote from: Namkung;589462
I am not too sure about the maverick tubemagic but the nuforce icon hdp is a pretty good dac/amp combo too that you might want to consider!

The Icons are a little more than I want to spend.  Their uDACs seem quite reasonable, though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Fri, 04 May 2012, 01:22:47
Do any of you have any recommendations for an amp, preferably with a DAC, for less than $200?
It's for my K240's, I'm probably going to use it as a pre-amp for some speakers as well.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Fri, 04 May 2012, 02:30:32
You can get away with a FIIO with those cans, they're good amps that are cheap and if you do something like the e7 and e9 you get an amp and dac under $200.

240s don't really need it though, aside from the extra volume, they're pretty efficient, like the 271s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LuvULongTime on Fri, 04 May 2012, 02:32:09
Quote from: Namkung;584163
saving for hd800 + WA2 +_+


I love the combo, it gets used almost everyday.  I use an O2 desktop at my comp but when I want to relax for a while I head to the Woo.  

[ATTACH=CONFIG]49897[/ATTACH]


nice pics rknize
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Fri, 04 May 2012, 03:11:21
Quote from: Ragnorock;589733
You can get away with a FIIO with those cans, they're good amps that are cheap and if you do something like the e7 and e9 you get an amp and dac under $200.

240s don't really need it though, aside from the extra volume, they're pretty efficient, like the 271s.

I don't really like FiiO amps, The E7's I've used seemed low quality (not sound wise)
nor did they sound as good as my dad's NAD amp, they felt like they were missing something compared to it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Sun, 06 May 2012, 20:11:34
So um yeah... DIY desktop amp ~$180, suggestions?  I was looking at the pimeta v2 w/ 24v sigma 25 PSU, AD843JNs.

Hmmm?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tr4656 on Sun, 06 May 2012, 20:19:05
O2 amps could do as well.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Sun, 06 May 2012, 20:29:28
Already planning on doing an ODA when he finishes that up, so I'm looking for something else.  :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Namkung on Sun, 06 May 2012, 20:32:32
Quote from: LuvULongTime;589735
I love the combo, it gets used almost everyday.  I use an O2 desktop at my comp but when I want to relax for a while I head to the Woo.  

(Attachment) 49897[/ATTACH]


nice pics rknize

damn. im so jealous T____T

edit:
what tubes are those? looks like tung-sol 5998s.. /drool
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Sun, 06 May 2012, 20:32:52
180 is a fair amount of scratch.. then again, a pimeta with opa627s in class A sounds pretty darn good..
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PixelVandalism on Sun, 06 May 2012, 20:42:09
I asked this question yesterday -_-
What do you think of the Audinst HUD-MX1, Tiny Tube DAC, and Yulong U100?
The Audinst is $172, the Yulong is $192, and I can't find anyone who sells the Tiny Tube.
The Yulong is only $192 until tomorrow.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Sun, 06 May 2012, 20:42:45
Hmmm, only $10 more for the opa627s vs the ad843s.  Either one fits in with the rest of the parts I've picked.  Aside from that, yes class A.  :)


As to the 180... could cut 15 and get a jameco linear regulated supply instead of building one.  Could go with something other than the blue velvet pot, and could go with a cheaper case instead of the hammond alu box.  Could get cheaper resistors, but that's only a couple bucks.

edit:  read more on opamps and I'm still sold on the ad843s.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Sun, 06 May 2012, 21:17:50
i have an elpac wall-wart that i like quite a bit. the blue velvet is really really nice. there's the smaller alps rk series that people seem to like now in portable amps. the blue velvet is really nice though, and unless the RK is comparable (and just smaller), probably worth it.

i think tubes are a waste of money and time, personally.
Title: cMoyBB
Post by: litster on Sat, 12 May 2012, 16:23:18
Finished my cMoyBB build last week.  Glad I didn't post the pictures before the ghroll back.  I hope that was the last one.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]50096[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]50094[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]50095[/ATTACH]

I ordered double parts for almost everything by accident from Mouser.  I am going to order anther $15 worth of parts from JDSLabs to build another one.  This next one will be the rechargeable version.

After that, I might want to build a DAC.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Sat, 12 May 2012, 17:19:18
Hooray for another rollback!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Sun, 13 May 2012, 00:15:48
The Headphone thread died.  Long live the headphone thread.

To review, I got a pair of Sennheiser HD 558 cans the other day.  The open/airy sound was weird at first, but I got over that.  It reminded me of an old pair of headphones that I had many years ago.  I think they were Koss or Awia.  They were open-back with thick, fluffy foam pads.  Awesome bass.  I also found the Audio-Technica MD-50s and they rock by comparison to the HD558.  I bent the headband a bit to make them more comfortable, but they still get hot.

After a day or so, I didn't like the HD 558s anymore.  They seemed kind of lifeless even though they are very detailed.  I put them in my drawer at work overnight with di.fm streaming to them at high volume.  That helped a bit.  Yesterday, I did the foam mod (to make them more like the HD 598) and it made a significant difference.  They actually have good bass extension now and are even more airy.  They go deeper than the MD-50s, though are not as bass heavy.  The detail makes them pretty good for playing games, too.

I attempted to order a Matrix Cube, but they were out of stock.  They offered to upgrade me to their Mini-i for free, so I went with that.  In the meantime, I'm using a Fiio E17.  Not bad, once you get the aluminum shavings out of the PCB.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Sun, 13 May 2012, 00:46:10
while researching for headphones, I found out that back in late 2010, HD650 sold for $299 briefly.  But it is now selling for $450 to $500.  another potential candidate is Denon AH-D5000 for $380 or so at http://www.electronics-expo.com/ with coupon code.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Sun, 13 May 2012, 07:08:12
omg, hd650s are 500$ now? yah, i got mine in about ~2000 for 250. hard to beat them for classical
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Sun, 13 May 2012, 07:51:39
http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/luscious-denon-ah-d2000-ah-d50000-and-ah-d7000
Before you buy a D5000, take a look at that then decide if it is worth it.

I personally like the HD600 more. I wouldn't call 650 veiled, but it is a bit less exciting sounding.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Sun, 13 May 2012, 08:52:52
on second thought, i have hd600s. i believe hd650s launched at 350-ish, so prices still have gone up, but not as much as i thought. 300 for hd650s is quite a deal.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Sun, 13 May 2012, 11:46:47
Quote from: laffindude;591487
http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/luscious-denon-ah-d2000-ah-d50000-and-ah-d7000
Before you buy a D5000, take a look at that then decide if it is worth it.

I personally like the HD600 more. I wouldn't call 650 veiled, but it is a bit less exciting sounding.

Thanks for the link.  Will give it a read.

Quote from: mkawa;591537
on second thought, i have hd600s. i believe hd650s launched at 350-ish, so prices still have gone up, but not as much as i thought. 300 for hd650s is quite a deal.

mkawa, will take a look at HD600.  Another option would be SKG's K701, which is still around $280.  Maybe I should not go to far high end and get something in the $200-$300 range before I get spoiled.  :-)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Sun, 13 May 2012, 16:59:11
Quote from: rknize;591277
The Headphone thread died.  Long live the headphone thread.

To review, I got a pair of Sennheiser HD 558 cans the other day.  The open/airy sound was weird at first, but I got over that.  It reminded me of an old pair of headphones that I had many years ago.  I think they were Koss or Awia.  They were open-back with thick, fluffy foam pads.  Awesome bass.  I also found the Audio-Technica MD-50s and they rock by comparison to the HD558.  I bent the headband a bit to make them more comfortable, but they still get hot.

After a day or so, I didn't like the HD 558s anymore.  They seemed kind of lifeless even though they are very detailed.  I put them in my drawer at work overnight with di.fm streaming to them at high volume.  That helped a bit.  Yesterday, I did the foam mod (to make them more like the HD 598) and it made a significant difference.  They actually have good bass extension now and are even more airy.  They go deeper than the MD-50s, though are not as bass heavy.  The detail makes them pretty good for playing games, too.

I attempted to order a Matrix Cube, but they were out of stock.  They offered to upgrade me to their Mini-i for free, so I went with that.  In the meantime, I'm using a Fiio E17.  Not bad, once you get the aluminum shavings out of the PCB.
ROFL
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Sun, 13 May 2012, 17:05:24
Quote from: litster;591635
Thanks for the link.  Will give it a read.



mkawa, will take a look at HD600.  Another option would be SKG's K701, which is still around $280.  Maybe I should not go to far high end and get something in the $200-$300 range before I get spoiled.  :-)
when i bought my hd600s there was no hd650 or hd800. if i were buying new phones today, i'd splurge on the 800s, not because i don't like the hd600s, but because i like them so much*, and by all reports the new models are the same sound but even more refined. ;)

*they've actually stopped my headphone purchasing for 10 years and counting
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Mon, 14 May 2012, 00:17:43
Quote from: mkawa;591537
on second thought, i have hd600s. i believe hd650s launched at 350-ish, so prices still have gone up, but not as much as i thought. 300 for hd650s is quite a deal.


I may have spring for them at $300.  But $500?  No way.  Looks like the HD600 can be had for that.  Hmm.  I'll give these a bit more time.  I've spent enough already....

Quote from: Ragnorock
ROFL


Yeah, pretty sad.  Extruded aluminum housing+self-tapping screws=cranky PCB.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: martinyeah on Mon, 14 May 2012, 01:39:58
i m using logitech g930
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Mon, 14 May 2012, 16:03:52
Can I just say OMG... like holy crap... I have just plugged in my new DT770 pro 250omg cans. There is nothing quite so surreal as hearing subtle mix placement that you've never noticed before (w/ headphones, not comparing to my stereo).  There's bass drums in here that never existed before.  I'm having a hard time deciding what I should listen to next.  

All this through my cheap Plantronic headset adapter (USB DAC).

I can't wait to get my Pimeta built.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Mon, 14 May 2012, 17:47:43
You'll get more impactful and articulate bass with an amp. If bass is up your alley, then you picked the right cans.
Not sure if you like Jamiroquai, but I love the bass on Traveling without moving. Lenny is always a good listen too (let love rule is my favorite). These are my favorite when testing for bass texture.
/currently listening on my modded DT990pro.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Mon, 14 May 2012, 17:57:37
Quote from: alaricljs;592674
I'm having a hard time deciding what I should listen to next.

The Flaming Lips' Soft Bulletin 5.1 Demastered stereo mixdowns (PM me if you don't have access to sites that they're available on). Fuh. King. Uh. May. Zing. Also, Clouds Taste Metallic is good in a very different way.
The Most Serene Republic's Population is an incredible baroque pop-ish album that is beautifully put together.
Shellac's 1000 Hurts, pretty much anything recorded by Steve Albini will sound incredible as well. 1000 Hurts is a good example of how good the space between sounds can sound on good headphones.
Charles Mingus' Mingus Moves (Canon and Wee are my favorites)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Mon, 14 May 2012, 21:03:33
Quote from: laffindude;592730
You'll get more impactful and articulate bass with an amp. If bass is up your alley, then you picked the right cans.

Definitely found a track that will demonstrate the amp nicely for me: Moby - Flower, you might have heard it in the new Gone in 60 Seconds.  That track from Jamiroquai is a good listen, don't know that they would make it into my regular rotation.

As to my typical listening, that's tough.  Metallica - Death Magnetic (Moderus master) happens to be where I heard the difference in drums and positioning.  On the other side of the tracks (town/state/world?) is Wynton Marsalis - Baroque Music for Trumpets.  Very well balanced and detailed.  

A random selection of my collection I listened to recently:  Black Keys, Chris Cornell (solo, Audioslave and Soundgarden), Crystal Method, C-Tec (the ultimate in bass tests), Daft Punk, Juno Reactor, Massive Attack, NIN, Orbital, Pink Floyd, Tool, Rob Zombie...

sth - thanks for the suggestions.  Flaming Lips, found Soft Bulletin on youtube and ran away after 10 seconds.  Most Serene Republic gets put on the list of further investigation.  Preferably without all this pop/click crap from youtube.  Shellac gets on that list above MSR.  In hunting for 'Canon' I found nothing but horrid interpretations of it :(  Certainly not finding the two you mention worth a listen on YT... on the other hand, Moanin' sounds good, finding something comparable at random is not working out so well.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Mon, 14 May 2012, 21:35:31
Quote from: alaricljs;592899
Definitely found a track that will demonstrate the amp nicely for me: Moby - Flower, you might have heard it in the new Gone in 60 Seconds.  That track from Jamiroquai is a good listen, don't know that they would make it into my regular rotation.

As to my typical listening, that's tough.  Metallica - Death Magnetic (Moderus master) happens to be where I heard the difference in drums and positioning.  On the other side of the tracks (town/state/world?) is Wynton Marsalis - Baroque Music for Trumpets.  Very well balanced and detailed.  

A random selection of my collection I listened to recently:  Black Keys, Chris Cornell (solo, Audioslave and Soundgarden), Crystal Method, C-Tec (the ultimate in bass tests), Daft Punk, Juno Reactor, Massive Attack, NIN, Orbital, Pink Floyd, Tool, Rob Zombie...

sth - thanks for the suggestions.  Flaming Lips, found Soft Bulletin on youtube and ran away after 10 seconds.  Most Serene Republic gets put on the list of further investigation.  Preferably without all this pop/click crap from youtube.  Shellac gets on that list above MSR.  In hunting for 'Canon' I found nothing but horrid interpretations of it :(  Certainly not finding the two you mention worth a listen on YT... on the other hand, Moanin' sounds good, finding something comparable at random is not working out so well.

Try to find a copy of Mingus Moves. Preferably on vinyl, but FLAC (or at the very least v0) will do. Soft Bulletin/The Flaming Lips may not be your thing but The Soft Bulletin (especially the 5.1 demaster version) has a very unique sonic quality. Steven Drozd was a master of texture... then he stopped doing heroin. Good for him, bad for us.

I wouldn't trust 90% of masters from the last 20 years from any band on a major... read up on the loudness wars if you don't know what I'm talking about.

Judging by the stuff you've listed, I really doubt our musical tastes will mesh, and I'll refrain from commenting on everything except Metallica. Those dip****s wouldn't know a good mix if it were an axe between Lars Ulrich's eyes. The dude butchers the **** out of the drums too. Grumble.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Mon, 14 May 2012, 22:28:39
Metallica - Hence why it's the Moderus master (long story short, the master tracks were released in Guitar Hero or something and some engineer dude mastered his own release.  Info has been posted to Metallica's own forums/site on where to get it and it hasn't been censored.)  Also interestingly enough the track I was enjoying the drums on is... drum light:  The Unforgiven III, lots of piano, strings, yeah really typical Metallica?  :)

edit: more Metallica - they released an EP w/ 4 more tracks that didn't make the original album.  Compared to the Moderus master they sound like muddy ****e mixed with asphalt.

Yes the loudness wars suck, wish it never happened, too bad a lot of the music I like participates in that war.  There's a whole lot more music that I can enjoy (like jazz) there's just certain genres than I can't enjoy unless that's all I'm doing (like jazz) and I don't have time for that unfortunately.  Hard enough to listen to classical without stopping what I'm doing.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Mon, 14 May 2012, 22:50:51
I was referring more to the sound that Lars makes with his drums period. I think it's terrible.
I'm on the other side of the fence re:loudness wars -- I generally find music released by people who care little enough about the sound of their record to be awfully boring. That includes bands that have signed to majors and effectively gave up on creative control of their art... but that's for another thread. To cut it short: hooray indy labels and the DIY scene.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Mon, 14 May 2012, 22:55:26
Listening to Rosanna on the original Toto IV pressing is quite a treat. Loudness war sucks.
However I don't think modern mastering technique is necessarily bad. Only when the compressor is used excessively. Many jazz albums are mastered pretty decently. It has that "modern sound" without being hypersquished. Say, something like Ray Charles' Genius loves company. Diana Krall's albums are equally wonderful.
On the opposite end of the scale. RHCP's I'm with you was atrocious. Lenny's Black and white America. Ew (though I did enjoy some songs with that "compressed sound" like Superlove).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 17 May 2012, 10:18:45
So I've decided that these HD-558s are too laid back for low-volume playing.  When I crank them, they do sound quite good.  However at low volumes they are rather boring.  Part of the problem might be the background office noise mixing with the music.  The M50s are more intimate (being closed-back), but not as detailed and not as comfortable.

I usually listen to high-energy music while coding (hard rock, death/hair metal, trance), but I prefer to do it at lower volumes to save my ears.  They also need to be comfortable, since I wear them for many hours at a time.  Suggestions?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 17 May 2012, 10:21:47
i like canalphones for offices. my office phones are etymotics hf-2s with the comply wax guard tips. comfortable, wildly isolating, can get basically any volume i want, from white noise to ear shattering from an iphone. open phones don't really work well for offices unless you have a private office and a heavy door
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 17 May 2012, 11:00:12
My DT770s are comfy and closed... but having zero experience with decent headphones, can't say how they would compare for you.  They do low volume well.  Compared to the Sony MDR-NC50s I had been using....

bass: cleaner, more responsive, deeper extension
mids: other than a much more accurate sound stage, nothing really to report
highs: no complaints in regards to shrillness or any imbalance wrt bass/mids

They are very detailed and do wonderfully with anything I've pumped through them.  They are also very revealing of the quality of my collection.

edit: and one other note - the velour makes them rather warm (temperature) but I got used to it fairly quickly.  I only overheat if I also have the cat in my lap.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 17 May 2012, 11:07:37
Quote from: rknize;594608
So I've decided that these HD-558s are too laid back for low-volume playing.  When I crank them, they do sound quite good.  However at low volumes they are rather boring.  Part of the problem might be the background office noise mixing with the music.  The M50s are more intimate (being closed-back), but not as detailed and not as comfortable.

I usually listen to high-energy music while coding (hard rock, death/hair metal, trance), but I prefer to do it at lower volumes to save my ears.  They also need to be comfortable, since I wear them for many hours at a time.  Suggestions?


I am a low volume listener as well. DT990pro is my personal favorite for that. Though they're open so may not be desirable to you. You can try DT770pro like alaricljs if you need some more isolation. I like a bit more basshump for low level listening, so I'd suggest the Pro 80ohm. Pro versions have a tighter clamp, so you'd want to stretch the spring steel headband until desired clamp is achieved. Not sure if it matters, but these Beyers are built like tanks (and easily repaired with replacement parts).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 17 May 2012, 11:47:27
The Pro's are tighter?  My head must be tiny then, this is the most gentle over-ear I could imagine.  My Sonys and my industrial ear protection is far tighter than this.  I have the 250ohm Pro.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 17 May 2012, 12:02:42
Premium edition are even gentler on the ears. Keep in mind a lot of the sealed (not just closed like DT770) headphones and hearing protections need the tight clamp to maintain the seal for isolation.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 17 May 2012, 13:18:33
i've heard good things about the dt770s. i believe my officemate has a pair. if you like the beyer sound and closed circumaural thing, stick to it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 17 May 2012, 13:38:24
Guess I won't know until I try them.  Sounds like they are quite colored, but that is probably good for low volume.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 17 May 2012, 13:46:55
Actually neutral tends to be better for low volume because there are no valleys in the frequency response that you need to compensate for
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 17 May 2012, 13:50:11
Anyone ever try the DT880s?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 17 May 2012, 14:11:56
Yes. They're on my head at the moment.
In comparison to DT990pro:
880 has slightly less airy sound, but more "flat" sounding sound-signature.
less bass and less treble. 600ohm version has sliiiiightly more bass punch.
Probably my favorite mid-fi phone.

DT770 is the odd ball out in term of sound signature in the xx0 family.
DT770 has a huge midrange suckout, even more so than the 990. 880 is the most "neutralish" one.
Closed phone sounds closed ;p
DT880 has no isolation to speak of.
I don't know what is it about the 770, it just isn't my cup of tea.

DT880's pro version is the most similar to premium version versus the others. 770 and 990 are basically using older version's cups, where the 880 pro uses the same as current Premiums. It just have different headband padding and clamp.
Pro versions have the curly cord that I like more than straight cords.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 17 May 2012, 15:15:12
Thanks for that.  My office isn't *that* noisy.  I do have a lot of PCs in here, and so there is some background fan noise (especially the SAS array on my build machine).  I do like being able to hear when people approach with the HD-558s and the old Koss phones that I had.  People often sneak up on me when I use the HD-428s or the M50s.

I think/hope it's the laid-back sound that is the issue.  From what I gather, Beyerdynamic tends to have a fairly U-shaped response in this range and that the DT880 is the least so.  Maybe I will give them a try.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 17 May 2012, 15:29:26
I hope you can try before you buy. D2000 has very modest isolation, and has a mild smilie faced response. May be it'll block out just enough day to day sound, but enough to hear what's going on around you.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 17 May 2012, 16:05:34
Pretty tough to find a place that can demo all these different types.  Thanks, though.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 17 May 2012, 16:50:12
I assume you are referring to the Denon AH-D2000?  Do you have those?  How would you characterize their sound as compared to the DT880?  The seem to have a good reputation, aside from that pesky screw.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 17 May 2012, 17:23:21
Yes I am talking about the Denon D2000.
I like the DT880's trade offs more than D2000. D2000's bass seems to dig deeper without being excessive. DT880 have the midbass hump to give it that punch. 880 is probably more exciting sounding.
Midrange, I call it a wash. D2000 sounds warmer to me.
Treble. Here is the main difference to me. DT880 has a characteristic Beyer 8.5k treble spike. The tiss from cymbals can get a little annoying (you can eq or use some tube magic here). D2000 is pretty laid back through the treble, without being overly dark. Edit: Not implying these are dark phones. They are only dark compared to the trebly Beyers.

Taken as a whole, D2000 is pretty blend sounding. How you like it depends on your ears. It is actually not a closed headphone, only almost closed. There is a strip of gap around the plastic outer part that lets air through. So it does isolate, but not to any great extent. Soundstaging is pretty good, perhaps lacks a bit of depth. Pretty flat sounding with a slight warm tilt. My only complain about it is that the bass can sound a bit loose and unrefined. If you want a more exciting sound, may be these are not for you.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 17 May 2012, 19:30:50
Well, I have the Senns if I want laid back.  I'm not very thrilled with the low impedance, either.  Driving the D2000 OTL would be a challenge.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 17 May 2012, 22:38:18
Definitely. 600ohm Beyer on the other hand are perfect for those OTL amps.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SmallFry on Fri, 18 May 2012, 18:47:21
If anyone has a pair of Bose OE2i's PM me please!
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sat, 19 May 2012, 17:57:01
I wish I had $550 right now. (http://www.head-fi.org/t/610463/stax-lambda-sb-with-transformer-box-srd-7-sb) This is why I try not to browse Head-Fi's B/S/T section; I get too tempted to spend money again.

Never mind that I already have a similar setup; it wouldn't hurt to have a backup.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Sat, 19 May 2012, 23:44:33
These Beyers are revealing what crap Netflix streams...  but I'm still happy ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Sun, 20 May 2012, 09:54:51
Just bought a pair of Shure srh840's for 130 USD from Guitar Center. I tried these and some Audio Technica ATH-M50s'. The m50 felt a little distorted in the treble and the sound was a little too upfront for my liking. They weren't bad at all, but I think I prefer the 840's. They sounded a little muffled at the store with my ipod, but for some reason at home there is no recession of the upper end. I'm playing them out of Wyred4Sound DAC2 -> Violectric V200. I also feel like they 'ring' a bit in the lower mids to upper bass, but that could just be because I'm used to the LCD-2's
(http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/2040/190369.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Sun, 20 May 2012, 13:55:28
The Matrix Mini-i came in the other day.  The Senns sound amazing when driven by this thing.  I have to play them pretty loud, but wow.  Awesome sound stage and great/natural bass extension.  Live recordings are almost as good as my system downstairs.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Mon, 21 May 2012, 01:14:26
I have recently read a good number of headphone reviews.  I have no idea what the reviewers talk about. The adjectives used in these reviews are: warm, tight, fast, laid back, etc.  I think I will need to get a couple of different headphones to begin to understand what they mean.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Mon, 21 May 2012, 10:32:44
Audio reviews are generally to be taken with a grain of salt.  Many of the finer points are highly subjective.  However, when it comes to speakers and headphones, the differences are often much more obvious.  In any case, it's hard to put audio attributes into words.  A lot of audio reviews take advantage of this fact and spew a lot of meaningless nonsense.  But yes, it's best to hear the differences for yourself.

I'll take a stab at a few of the terms, FWIW:

"forward" vs "laid back" - taken to the extreme, having your head right next to the speakers versus listening from another room.  The instruments feel like they are firing at you, instead of you trying to make them out in the distance.  Forward can be more fun and more detailed (easier to pick out instruments and performers), but a more laid-back sound is probably more "natural".

"fast" and "tight" are often used to refer to the bass.  It has to do with how the movement and control of the speaker cone interacts with the speaker's own natural resonance.  A lot of things besides the speaker itself impact this, including the design of the cabinet, the impedance and current capability of the amp, interconnect impedance, etc.  For headphones, I think it has most to do with the first two, since the mass of the speaker cone is so low.

Another one you'll hear is the "sound stage".  It's how deep and how wide the virtual sound stage seems.  For a live recording, this would correspond to the actual stage.  For a studio recording, it's all in the magic of what the sound engineer did.  How can you have 3D sound with only two speakers?  Well, you only have two ears.  For good recording, the 3D information is there.  It's a matter of getting to your ears without losing it along the way.  The speakers probably have the most influence on this, since they introduce the most distortion into the source by far.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Mon, 21 May 2012, 10:58:46
Imaging belongs under soundstage too. Sound stage is not only how wide it is, but also depth. How far is each instrument is from you. This is usually the Achilles heel of headphones. Our brain works out the slight difference in time sound arrive to each ear to pin point the exact location of the sound. Headphone does not let you hear sounds from the other channel to work out this information (without crossfeed). This extreme stereo separation can fatigue your ears. They can also make center sounds that seems to come at you from 11 and 1 oclock at the same time (incoherent center stage, which is why I hate K701).

Do watch out for placebos. This is the land of 2000 dollar power cables.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Mon, 21 May 2012, 11:18:26
i do my best to refrain from attempting to interpret other's impressions of audio gear. audio reproduction is hopelessly complex that even the best objective measurements we have are woefully inadequate, much less the wildly subjective ones. however, there are a couple terms that i feel are pretty reasonable:

"low-end" behavior when signal is around 1-500hz
"mid-range" behavior when signal is around 500-12khz
"high-end" 12-20khz

"warm" amplitude response when signal is in mid-range is unusually high (w/rt high/low end)
"laid-back" amplitude response in mid/low frequency domain is similar, but low-end rolls off at a particularly high frequency (and note that _every_ headphone has 3db roll-off by 75hz)
"rock" low amplitude response in high-end
"peaky" high amplitude response in the high-end

there are other valid terms in the frequency domain as well but they're not coming to mind.. there are also terms that refer to distortion in the time domain. i'm of the opinion that most of these terms refer to ringing at various frequencies..

"bass smearing" low-frequency reproduction tends to ring
"tight" low-frequencies do not tend to ring
"fast" high-frequencies do not tend to ring
"sibilant" high-frequencies tend to ring

"soundstage" refers to spatial reproduction, but i have no idea how one models this, or even reproduces it, since i don't really understand how humans localize audio, but do know that involves the shape of the ear; imo, all bets are off on this one, except that the further the drivers are from your ear, the better the potential for spatial reproduction.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Mon, 21 May 2012, 13:42:33
Thanks for the explanation, guys.  I will have to match them up with what I hear.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dmbr on Thu, 24 May 2012, 16:16:33
Grado 225i's for music, Audiotechnica ATH-AD700's and Sennheiser 380HD's for gaming.

I use a modded Xonar ST sound card when not listening to vinyl B)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 24 May 2012, 17:17:19
I tried-out the DT 880s at a local Brookstone.  They seemed to have a fairly flat response and were relatively comfortable.  I like the velure pads.  I ordered the 250-ohm Pro version from B&H, because I wanted a coiled cord and an input impedance that was a reasonable compromise.  I'm pretty happy with them so far.  Not so laid-back as the Senns, which makes them a bit more engaging at low volume.  Fairly flat response, unlike the bass-bloated M50s or the overly-warm Senns.  Not as open as the Senns and not as intimate as the M50s.  Decent compromise, overall.  Clearly a studio headphone.  I think I'm good, now.  :)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jonnybastard on Thu, 24 May 2012, 20:27:06
Good choice, 880's are easily my favorite pair of cans.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Thu, 24 May 2012, 22:36:25
Quote from: laffindude;597074
Imaging belongs under soundstage too. Sound stage is not only how wide it is, but also depth. How far is each instrument is from you.

This is usually the Achilles heel of headphones. Our brain works out the slight difference in time sound arrive to each ear to pin point the exact location of the sound. Headphone does not let you hear sounds from the other channel to work out this information (without crossfeed). This extreme stereo separation can fatigue your ears. They can also make center sounds that seems to come at you from 11 and 1 oclock at the same time (incoherent center stage, which is why I hate K701).
Ironically, this is also why binaural sources are generally mixed for headphones only. That very property of hearing sounds from the other channel in both ears (which is how we're able to tell what direction they're coming from in the first place, and what binaural methods act on) makes binaural mixing for stereo speakers significantly more complicated compared to headphones, because now you have to factor in crosstalk cancellation and whatnot. It's not impossible, though, hence QSound and other such processing methods.

The problem with this? Well, there just aren't that many binaural sources to begin with, aside from a select few music albums and older PC games (back when DirectSound3D and OpenAL were still in common use, and thus the 3D sound information can easily be mixed into any format the sound device desires instead of being constrained to 7.1 and one-dimensional stereo headphone panning).

This subject also makes me think about the endearingly atmospheric presentation of my vintage Stax Lambda, which could actually be a trait of electrostatics in general. Instead of the sound being forced and thrown into your ears, it sort of just flows in instead. Fortunately, in spite of this rather spatial-sounding presentation, the center stage never sounds incoherent to me. Very whole, no gaps.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dmbr on Fri, 25 May 2012, 00:21:22
Pardon the tangent, but speaking of surround sound with headphones, this is worth checking out: http://www.head-fi.org/t/447089/5-1-headphone-experience-foobar-configuration-for-all-stereo-music-files
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Fri, 25 May 2012, 09:52:16
weird.

personally, i don't find localization to be all that important. i guess i'm just more of a composition and timbre nerd
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dmbr on Fri, 25 May 2012, 15:08:51
For me, the difference between surround and stereo is as big as stereo vs mono. It really makes certain songs and genres come alive.

Albums that are carefully mixed for 5.1 sound amazing with Dolby Headphone. The Crystal Method does stunning things with it...voices and little trails of reverb swimming around your head in perfect rhythm...if you're not tripping already you will be.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Fri, 25 May 2012, 22:43:57
For music, I don't prioritize localization over things like sound signature and whatnot, but for gaming, I most certainly do.

Binaural surround filters like CMSS-3D Headphone or Dolby Headphone can be like aural wallhacks with the right headphones.

I'll have to admit that I've never heard any songs mixed with 5.1 in mind, though. The only ones I've encountered are stereo, with the occasional binaural recording.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Wed, 30 May 2012, 16:22:51
Has anyone hapened to check out the monoprice headphones people are so impressed with? I'm really tempted to get them as a beater pair.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Wed, 30 May 2012, 20:00:21
I came across this blog post (http://nwavguy.blogspot.com/2012/04/what-we-hear.html) on objective vs subject review on hi fi gear.  My day job involves a lot proving and validating quality with numbers so this post really resonates with me.

And then I read this WA5 headphone amp review on headfonia.com:

Quote
At the current state, I think the number is close to $6,000. Yes, four times the price of the Sennheiser HD800. No wonder it sounds so good.


Yes, I am a skeptic right now.  How could I trust any of these subjective reviews?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 31 May 2012, 04:35:36
You don't. There is a conflict of interest. They depend on advertising dollars, so how honest do you think they will be. Audiophile stuff is full of placebos and snake oils. Some sites to stay away from: Headfi, headphonia, 6moons. (There is a lot of astroturfer on headfi).
If people claim they can hear interconnect cable difference. It is time to walk away. http://www.roger-russell.com/wire/wire.htm http://www.changstar.com/
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 31 May 2012, 06:59:19
nwavguy has his own interests to defend.

this is why i stick to the old school diy scene.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 31 May 2012, 10:05:43
DIYers are not free from placebo and snake oil. I don't like nwavguy myself, but he has a pretty good point about the active ground loved by the DIY community (and used in your Pimeta2).
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 31 May 2012, 10:28:46
i'm still not sure what his point about active grounds is. he says "yah, it makes sense for battery powered amps". note that most of the old diy designs are battery powered. then there's some stuff about crosstalk, and then he has some dubious measurements of a mini3 driven out of spec.

the difference is that in the old days, there wasn't really any money involved (or if there was it all went directly to mouser/digikey and the pcb houses lol) and people didn't feel the need to disparage other people's designs.

until you commercialize them, circuits are circuits, and just behave as they behave. you're curious, so you build one, and then you're a bit more curious so you build and measure ten more. you listen to them and think a bit and that's how you have fun. my point is that nwavguy is clearly commercializing and productizing his designs, no matter what their objective merits might be. in his world, you have a limited budget for audio hardware and he wants it to be devoted to his circuits.

go check out an archive of the old headwize product pages (i think kevin gilmore maintains these now) to see how it used to be done. it was more like "oh, i built your circuit and this is what i thought, but then i had this cool idea, because i wanted MORE BASS" and ta-da, apheared's a47
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 31 May 2012, 10:53:13
Call me materialistic, but looks were a factor in choosing my headphones and amp setup. I could have been blissfully happy with just my k701s and ****ty FiiO amp, but I wanted something more prestigious. When I saw how badass the WA6 looked with the Sophia, I decided I wanted one, as expensive as it was for the utility I would likely get out of it. Worse still, I learned the better match for my cans was nearly double the price, and I still didn't mind, I just hunted for a good deal on Head-Fi until I found one (I paid about MSRP for mine but it came with about $800 of tubes and was mint.) I knew that like mech keyboards, amps hold their value really well, so if I was ever in a bind I could sell it, but I haven't wanted to yet, and there's always someone wondering what the hell it is.

As far as the comments about Head-Fi et. al., of course you should take everything at face value. I do go over there for reviews on audio gear, mostly cans, but I always sift through several opinions to get the best idea possible, all the while knowing that these guys are all biased because that's what they like. Considering that we all are biased into mech boards here, its pretty easy to relate with that. If I was to come in here preaching that membranes are just as easy to type fast on as mechanicals, and that everything we like here is a ridiculous waste of money and we're slaves to SP, CClack and EK etc, we'd all be in an uproar over it. In the end, we're a community of enthusiasts, and so are they.

That said, some caveats:

Use monoprice interconnect cables until you have the discretionary income to the point of where you want to be able to point out your pretentious cables that look awesomer. For actual headphone cables though, you can hear noticeable difference by upgrading the cable if it isn't matched to the cans. For example with the Sennheiser HD800, the gauge of the cable isn't thick enough to carry the proper current for the bass response, so upgrading from the stock cable helps significantly. This is something I noted universally so I can say that with confidence. I hope that makes sense.

Snake oil is everywhere, but it is much more common in audio gear because its so preferential. However there is a distinction to be made between that and the mass market products like beats, which many owners will say are awesome. That makes me die a little inside because having compared them to what I have, I know that what I hear is not snake oil, and their opinions are simply ignorant of the truth.

I think the best way to make subjective things like audio component reviews more objective is to count them. If a lot of people, whom, while biased, have very discriminating tastes, all like something, then there's a pretty good chance that you'll like it too.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Thu, 31 May 2012, 10:54:59
According to nwavguy and jdslabs, nwavguy doesn't make any money from O2 or ODAC.  He seems to have only his reputation to defend, no money.

He is out there with numbers, repeatable numbers.  I like to see that from commercial manufacturers.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Thu, 31 May 2012, 11:07:21
Not sure I agree about he is disparaging other's designs for his own gain. He is not the only guy who is not doing active ground designs. I think he is doing it for his own ego. Circuits are just circuits. They sound the same whether or not you commercialize it. FUD is always around in the audiophile domain regardless. If he wants to sell his designs, good for him. It doesn't make active ground have more or less stereo crosstalk than it has right now.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Thu, 31 May 2012, 12:08:33
Quote from: Ragnorock;604660
Considering that we all are biased into mech boards here, its pretty easy to relate with that. If I was to come in here preaching that membranes are just as easy to type fast on as mechanicals, and that everything we like here is a ridiculous waste of money and we're slaves to SP, CClack and EK etc, we'd all be in an uproar over it. In the end, we're a community of enthusiasts, and so are they.


I can see that.  I can perceive the differences between different keyboards and switches that are tens or hundreds of dollars aport.  I can't perceive the differences between high end hifi gear that are thousands of dollars apart.  Not yet anyway.

Quote
For example with the Sennheiser HD800, the gauge of the cable isn't thick enough to carry the proper current for the bass response, so upgrading from the stock cable helps significantly. This is something I noted universally so I can say that with confidence. I hope that makes sense.


I have been reading and other articles and DIY instructions on building my two cMoyBB amps to match voltage, current, and gain for low and high impedance headphones.  HD 800 is a high impedance headphones at 300 ohms.  it needs more voltage for higher volume.  For low impedance headphones like IEMs and or headphones (30 ohms or so) designed to work directly with portable music players that don't provide high voltage, you need higher current supply.

Anyhow, you would think Sennheiser would have the correct matching cables for its $1,500 pair of headphones.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 31 May 2012, 13:01:43
thank you for acknowledging that the jds stuff is a commercial product. yes, for a commercial product, jds is out there with far more transparency than most of these audiophile shops. but, as a diy type, nwavguy/jds are an insult to the open friendly diy community that used to exist.

anyway something that has been bugging me since i heard about this whole hubbub; who is nwavguy anyway?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Thu, 31 May 2012, 13:12:09
Quote from: litster;604687
I can see that.  I can perceive the differences between different keyboards and switches that are tens or hundreds of dollars aport.  I can't perceive the differences between high end hifi gear that are thousands of dollars apart.  Not yet anyway.



I have been reading and other articles and DIY instructions on building my two cMoyBB amps to match voltage, current, and gain for low and high impedance headphones.  HD 800 is a high impedance headphones at 300 ohms.  it needs more voltage for higher volume.  For low impedance headphones like IEMs and or headphones (30 ohms or so) designed to work directly with portable music players that don't provide high voltage, you need higher current supply.

Anyhow, you would think Sennheiser would have the correct matching cables for its $1,500 pair of headphones.
You're damn right, I mean really Sennheiser? I meant voltage... I think. Too much group buy shiz going around in my head to think too hard about that at the moment. XD

But its the same principle as to why you need heavy duty (like 12 gauge) extension cables when you're drawing a lot of amps using a power hungry piece of equipment.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Thu, 31 May 2012, 16:04:49
electricity: A SERIES OF TUBES
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Netdewt on Thu, 31 May 2012, 16:28:45
I have Grado SR-125 (had them for about 10 years) and just got a set of Fostex T20RP, modding soon.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 01 June 2012, 06:46:51
Quote from: Ragnorock;604660

Use monoprice interconnect cables until you have the discretionary income to the point of where you want to be able to point out your pretentious cables that look awesomer. For actual headphone cables though, you can hear noticeable difference by upgrading the cable if it isn't matched to the cans. For example with the Sennheiser HD800, the gauge of the cable isn't thick enough to carry the proper current for the bass response, so upgrading from the stock cable helps significantly. This is something I noted universally so I can say that with confidence. I hope that makes sense.


Sorry, that sounds like FUD in the highest degree. We're talking few milliamps of current here. The cables are more than sufficient.
There are also univerally accepted notion that silver cable sounds brighter, yet no one has been able to demonstrate the ability to ABX it yet.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Netdewt on Fri, 01 June 2012, 07:13:59
Cable modding has gotten out of control in the audio world for sure. People upgrade their power cables and claim it makes a difference in the sound.

I did upgrade my speaker cables on the stereo from very old, crappy 26ga repurposed "wire" to 10ga cable from Blue Jeans and thought that there was a noticeable difference in the sound, however.

One place that seems to make sense to me, if anywhere, is the cable for a turntable because the signal is pretty weak until it's gained by the phono pre.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Fri, 01 June 2012, 09:51:54
Quote from: litster;604663
According to nwavguy and jdslabs, nwavguy doesn't make any money from O2 or ODAC.  He seems to have only his reputation to defend, no money.

He is out there with numbers, repeatable numbers.  I like to see that from commercial manufacturers.


Quote from: mkawa;604723
thank you for acknowledging that the jds stuff is a commercial product. yes, for a commercial product, jds is out there with far more transparency than most of these audiophile shops. but, as a diy type, nwavguy/jds are an insult to the open friendly diy community that used to exist.

anyway something that has been bugging me since i heard about this whole hubbub; who is nwavguy anyway?


I had no idea yesterday who you were thanking since you did't quote.  Then I read the last few posts again today.  No, I mean I would like to see other commercial manufacturers back up their products with numbers and tables and used tested methods to prove what they claim is repeatable by other people, like nwavguy and jdslabs do.

mkawa, I would like to see some examples from you to demonstrate why nwavguy and jdslabs are an insult to the open friendly DIY community that doesn't exist any more.  I come in late and don't know the history behind it.

I sent over 6 emails to John at jdslabs for many noob questions and he answered every one of them, most within minutes, a couple within a few hours late at night or over the weekend.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: litster on Fri, 01 June 2012, 09:56:42
Quote from: litster;604687

I have been reading and other articles and DIY instructions on building my two cMoyBB amps to match voltage, current, and gain for low and high impedance headphones.  HD 800 is a high impedance headphones at 300 ohms.  it needs more voltage for higher volume.  For low impedance headphones like IEMs and or headphones (30 ohms or so) designed to work directly with portable music players that don't provide high voltage, you need higher current supply.

Anyhow, you would think Sennheiser would have the correct matching cables for its $1,500 pair of headphones.


Quote from: Ragnorock;604726
You're damn right, I mean really Sennheiser? I meant voltage... I think. Too much group buy shiz going around in my head to think too hard about that at the moment. XD

But its the same principle as to why you need heavy duty (like 12 gauge) extension cables when you're drawing a lot of amps using a power hungry piece of equipment.


No, I mean why isn't the cable that comes with the hd 800 isn't enough for a $1,500 pair of headphones?  You mean Ferrari sold you a supercar and it comes with bicycle wheels?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Fri, 01 June 2012, 10:59:44
here's how the first run of PPA boards ended up being made

http://www.head-fi.org/t/27735/ppa-project-announcement

it was a collaborative design. the core designers came up with some design principles and a prototype. the rest was collaborative with the community. absolutely everything was open. design choices were explained, alternatives were proposed and explored, everyone built variants, everyone had fun

kevin gilmore's original article on the dynalo circuit: http://gilmore2.chem.northwestern.edu/projects/showfile.php?file=gilmore3_prj.htm

numerous pcbs and designs have been based off of that articles over the last 10 years. kevin has assisted wherever he can and whenever asked on those projects without taking a dime. iirc the only time he's ever taken money was when headamp directly commercialized the design as a finished product and (more importantly) put his name on it.

these are the people that nwavguy disparages (and not just on his page, there are forum posts that are most likely due to him going back years) as "doing it all wrong". meanwhile, he won't publish his real name, his newest design is not open, etc.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Maarten on Fri, 01 June 2012, 11:20:34
Quote from: Netdewt;605488
Cable modding has gotten out of control in the audio world for sure.

LIES! This (http://www.head-fi.org/t/590318/stefan-audioart-saa-voice-10ft-balanced-xlr-headphone-cable-classic-edition-rhodium-pins-cocobolo-wood-shells-splitters-external-cotton-quad-brading-free-plug-termination-of-your-choice) is great value for money! :music:
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parak on Fri, 01 June 2012, 12:03:52
So an interesting thing about headphone cables is that the general principle is not too different from speaker cables, which have of course gathered quite a bit of "controversy". What they both boil down to, though, is Ohm's Law. To try and put it simply, there are essentially three factors involved:

1. A given impedance of your speaker/headphone (in ohms)
2. Resistance in the cable which increases the thinner and/or longer it is (also in ohms)
3. Potential output of your amplifier (in volts)

Due to the law, your total power that goes out to the speaker/headphone depends on all three of them. The less total resistance/impedance, the more power will get through. This is why 2 and 4 ohm speakers are easier to drive than 8 ohm speakers, and same goes for headphones where 32 ohm impedance is easier than 300 or 600 ohm impedance. The purpose of a cable is to provide as little in-between resistance as possible, as significant additional resistance will reduce the power that the amp is able to supply. Thick gauge and small lengths are needed for small impedance with large power outputs. There are plenty of numbers already floating around for speakers, such as this (http://www.roger-russell.com/wire/wire.htm) excellent article by one of McIntosh engineers.

For headphones, the same effect applies. However, the required power to drive headphones is far less than what would be needed for speakers. Moreso as per the above, the required cable thickness goes /DOWN/ as the impedance goes /UP/. Think of the headphone impedance as an obstruction at the end of a hose - you can increase the size of the hose all you want, but since the flow through it remains the same (what the amp supplies), your total output flow does not change.

The resistance of a wire of a given gauge and length is easy enough to calculate for standard copper, and there are plenty of calculators for that. It's recommended that the total resistance of the wire be no more than 5% of the system impedance. The link above just about halves that even further on the safe side. For HD800, which is 300 ohm impedance, you'd want a cable that has a total resistance of no more than 7.5 ohms. As per this calculator (http://www.cirris.com/testing/resistance/wire.html) one can easily get away with using 30 awg wire (VERY thin) over a distance of 50 feet (lawl). So no, thicker cables (assuming they have thicker copper) won't do anything for headphones outside of some truly bizarre cases like running a cable over a few miles.

TL;DR: Due to basic physics, premium cables that are marketed as means of improving sound for either speakers or headphones are complete bunk. There is however some value in having nice cables that are more durable or flexible, but those can be had at a modest price increase over lamp cord.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Fri, 01 June 2012, 13:08:43
Quote from: Parak;605674
So an interesting thing about headphone cables is that the general principle is not too different from speaker cables, which have of course gathered quite a bit of "controversy". What they both boil down to, though, is Ohm's Law. To try and put it simply, there are essentially three factors involved:

1. A given impedance of your speaker/headphone (in ohms)
2. Resistance in the cable which increases the thinner and/or longer it is (also in ohms)
3. Potential output of your amplifier (in volts)

Due to the law, your total power that goes out to the speaker/headphone depends on all three of them. The less total resistance/impedance, the more power will get through. This is why 2 and 4 ohm speakers are easier to drive than 8 ohm speakers, and same goes for headphones where 32 ohm impedance is easier than 300 or 600 ohm impedance. The purpose of a cable is to provide as little in-between resistance as possible, as significant additional resistance will reduce the power that the amp is able to supply. Thick gauge and small lengths are needed for small impedance with large power outputs. There are plenty of numbers already floating around for speakers, such as this (http://www.roger-russell.com/wire/wire.htm) excellent article by one of McIntosh engineers.

For headphones, the same effect applies. However, the required power to drive headphones is far less than what would be needed for speakers. Moreso as per the above, the required cable thickness goes /DOWN/ as the impedance goes /UP/. Think of the headphone impedance as an obstruction at the end of a hose - you can increase the size of the hose all you want, but since the flow through it remains the same (what the amp supplies), your total output flow does not change.

The resistance of a wire of a given gauge and length is easy enough to calculate for standard copper, and there are plenty of calculators for that. It's recommended that the total resistance of the wire be no more than 5% of the system impedance. The link above just about halves that even further on the safe side. For HD800, which is 300 ohm impedance, you'd want a cable that has a total resistance of no more than 7.5 ohms. As per this calculator (http://www.cirris.com/testing/resistance/wire.html) one can easily get away with using 30 awg wire (VERY thin) over a distance of 50 feet (lawl). So no, thicker cables (assuming they have thicker copper) won't do anything for headphones outside of some truly bizarre cases like running a cable over a few miles.

TL;DR: Due to basic physics, premium cables that are marketed as means of improving sound for either speakers or headphones are complete bunk. There is however some value in having nice cables that are more durable or flexible, but those can be had at a modest price increase over lamp cord.
Well what about transitioning to a silver cable, which is what the aftermarket cables are.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parak on Fri, 01 June 2012, 13:40:14
Quote from: Ragnorock;605729
Well what about transitioning to a silver cable, which is what the aftermarket cables are.

Silver is about 5-10% more conductive than copper, which means that you can have a cable thinner or longer by that amount and still have same results. So if a 50 foot silver cable of gauge X is of the recommended resistance, then you'd want a 45 foot cable of gauge X made of copper to meet same resistance. Alternatively, instead of the 5% of impedance figure mentioned, one could instead use 6.2% or so to calculate required wire gauge on the copper wire calculator.

So how much one would pay to get 5-10% more conductivity? 5-10% more? 20%? Nah, about 13,000% more, based on the recent prices for copper and silver.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ragnorock on Fri, 01 June 2012, 13:47:29
Interesting insight. Actually it makes me want to try it to see if I notice a difference. I'm pretty aware of the placebo effect when comparing gear so I could provide some feedback on whether the physics actually back up the subjective nature of audio preference. (Also just agree with me so I have an excuse to buy HD800s) XD
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Parak on Fri, 01 June 2012, 14:41:59
Well, speakers and headphones are definitely more subjective than objective, in both sound and comfort. I personally would prefer the rest of my gear to be firmly in the objective camp, which in order of potentially decreasing subjectivity (based on how much they /might/ change the sound signature), is amp -> dac -> interconnects. So I'd rather have uncolored sound by the first two devices there, and if I want, then I'd use a software EQ to fine tune it which is better than changing out the amp/dac entirely.

On that basis, premium is worth it if you personally like the comfort and sound signature of particular headphones or speakers. Not quite at all worth as much for proper amp/dac combo to match, and definitely not for cables. Of course, price/performance does affect this at some point - do $10,000 Stax phones sound 100 times better than ATH-AD700? Do I care if I'm a billionaire? :p

If you want to test cables, you'd ideally want to at least make sure that you have no way of telling which cables are currently connected :D
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Netdewt on Fri, 01 June 2012, 18:59:44
Quote from: Parak;605749
Silver is about 5-10% more conductive than copper, which means that you can have a cable thinner or longer by that amount and still have same results. So if a 50 foot silver cable of gauge X is of the recommended resistance, then you'd want a 45 foot cable of gauge X made of copper to meet same resistance. Alternatively, instead of the 5% of impedance figure mentioned, one could instead use 6.2% or so to calculate required wire gauge on the copper wire calculator.

So how much one would pay to get 5-10% more conductivity? 5-10% more? 20%? Nah, about 13,000% more, based on the recent prices for copper and silver.

A higher gauge copper cable is also more conducive.

I like this article @ Blue Jeans:
http://www.bluejeanscable.com/articles/what-does-wire-gage-mean.htm

Also, as seen today in my office:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]52064[/ATTACH]
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 01 June 2012, 19:08:55
Quote from: litster;605568
No, I mean why isn't the cable that comes with the hd 800 isn't enough for a $1,500 pair of headphones?  You mean Ferrari sold you a supercar and it comes with bicycle wheels?


Upgraditus. Stock so it must suck. Audiophiles are like that.
http://www.stereotimes.com/cables062301.shtml we're in the land of the stupid. I am still waiting for people who claims they can hear the difference to ABX these to cheap lamp cord cables.
http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/1101/nordost.htm <- value for the money = 100.

Quote from: Parak;605674
TL;DR: Due to basic physics, premium cables that are marketed as means of improving sound for either speakers or headphones are complete bunk. There is however some value in having nice cables that are more durable or flexible, but those can be had at a modest price increase over lamp cord.


These kinda talks gets you banned from Head-Fi. Spot on though. As long as the cable is sufficiently thick for the length of the run, there are no differences. (or if there IS a difference, it means the cable is broken. Like the increased capacitance on some "audiophile cables").
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Fri, 01 June 2012, 19:41:16
tbh head-fi seems to have become a pretty terrible place. it used to be that the only place you could pretend that there were differences between cables without being banned was the DBT-free forum, and the only sponsors were jan meier and headroom.

in that respect i can kind of see where some of the backlash is coming from. some of it is definitely misguided, but much of it doesn't seem to be. head-fi used to be the sane alternative to audioasylum. now, it seems the asylum mentality's taken over :(
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Fri, 01 June 2012, 19:59:58
Head fi is too busy. Headcase isnt bad for a little info here and there, and innerfidelity is great for the technical side of things. In the end i couldnt care less what people say about cables/ dacs and what not. Either listen before you buy or buy it and eat sellbit if you dont like it.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: grave00 on Fri, 08 June 2012, 15:05:29
Quote from: mkawa;605951
tbh head-fi seems to have become a pretty terrible place. it used to be that the only place you could pretend that there were differences between cables without being banned was the DBT-free forum, and the only sponsors were jan meier and headroom.



I am a very recent user of headfi.  I didn't recall any suppression of opinions for people advocating for non-audiophile cables.  In fact, as I look at a thread on monoprice in the cabling subforum there, it's quite the opposite.  Plenty of them recommend them as just as good, with a few lamenting the stiffness.  Seems like a pretty freewheeling place to me.  I wouldn't be suprised if plenty of people there actively poo poo the idea that cables make a difference.  I think this is just misinformation.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Fri, 08 June 2012, 15:42:28
There has been moderator backlash when such opinions directly attack important sponsors of headfi.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Striketh on Thu, 19 July 2012, 21:40:56
Ah, I remember this thread. I originally posted in regards to having a pair of Denon D7000's. While GH was "on vacation" I picked up a pair of Grado RS2i's :)

Really love the contrast in sound with them. Got a pair of flat ear pads to replace the stock ones and they're really satisfying to listen to for my live, acoustic and orchestral recordings. I definitely recommend the flat ear pads, though, if you're going to pick these up as they definitely improve comfort (less pressure on your ears) and improve the quality of the bass.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Thu, 19 July 2012, 21:49:21
Hm, might as well post an update. I am now the proud owner of an Eric Barney headset stand... doesn't exactly go with my decor but it's nice to have something to keep my cans up in the air :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Striketh on Thu, 19 July 2012, 21:54:48
Hm, might as well post an update. I am now the proud owner of an Eric Barney headset stand... doesn't exactly go with my decor but it's nice to have something to keep my cans up in the air :)

Ah, what's it look like? I am currently hanging my headphones off this classy piece of decor:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000H40UAO/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00

Cheap and it's nice and heavy so 3 pairs of headphones can hang off it with ease! :P

I used to use a banana hanger before, but as my collection has grown it was no longer sufficient. It's amazing how I've spent well over $1,500 on headphone stuff and about $30 in total on stands :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Namkung on Fri, 20 July 2012, 01:19:04
First post since GH came back up!
Ordered a pair of hd800s. Should arrive early next week.
Hopefully the sound signature suits me better than my hd650s.
Will be driving them with little dot dac + mk iv se.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Fri, 20 July 2012, 11:13:58
My K550's earpads unglued itself at the seam. I had to pull it apart to get them to stick together again. Where the f do you order replacement pads?
I like how the earpads go on the K550. Just put the lip on the pads into the notch and rotate. Much less pain in the ass than Beyer. I am gonna notch my Beyer cups.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IllegalAlien on Fri, 20 July 2012, 13:50:33
Bose Earpads are the worst ripoff.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Fri, 20 July 2012, 14:08:21
I've been listening to the DT880 Pro's daily at work since I got them.  I'm really happy with them for casual listening levels.  They strike a nice balance between open and closed sound.  I can still hear things around me, but it's much more subdued than the Senns.  My only gripe is that they are a bit on the heavy side...built like a tank, though.  They also mess up the hair on the sides of my head.  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JaLKne on Fri, 20 July 2012, 19:57:18
Do you run your DT880s through an amp? I can't wait for my little dot MK III to get here.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Fri, 20 July 2012, 20:00:46
Yeah, a Fiio E17.  It can drive them just fine.  I have the 150ohm version.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JaLKne on Sun, 22 July 2012, 16:24:38
Have you tired many portable amps? I've been considering that one for a while now, but it seems a bit bulky to me because I have a sansa clip+.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Kasperb22 on Sun, 22 July 2012, 17:58:30
Yeah, a Fiio E17.  It can drive them just fine.  I have the 150ohm version.

I have the E17 paired with an Ultrasone Pro 900. I highly recommend both!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: M0rph3us on Sun, 22 July 2012, 21:34:03
I have a crappy Razer Piranha that I got for super cheap, but it works. Wish I had to money to get a good headset, but alas "I am just a poor boy, nobody loves me". :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Mon, 23 July 2012, 18:37:31
Have you tired many portable amps? I've been considering that one for a while now, but it seems a bit bulky to me because I have a sansa clip+.

Not really.  It sounds pretty good, but the Matix at my desk at home is a little better for some reason.  My job situation may be changing later this summer, such that I'll be taking a train to/from work.  If that happens I'll probably get a cMoy or similar.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 25 July 2012, 00:47:53
Why not use your E17?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Kronen on Sun, 29 July 2012, 11:57:47
Gotta love my Sennheiser 5(9)5s for a fraction of the cost :-).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvQ8PzBrHXE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvQ8PzBrHXE)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mvh11 on Sun, 29 July 2012, 12:43:38
Quote from: Ragnorock;605729
Well what about transitioning to a silver cable, which is what the aftermarket cables are.

Silver is about 5-10% more conductive than copper, which means that you can have a cable thinner or longer by that amount and still have same results. So if a 50 foot silver cable of gauge X is of the recommended resistance, then you'd want a 45 foot cable of gauge X made of copper to meet same resistance. Alternatively, instead of the 5% of impedance figure mentioned, one could instead use 6.2% or so to calculate required wire gauge on the copper wire calculator.

So how much one would pay to get 5-10% more conductivity? 5-10% more? 20%? Nah, about 13,000% more, based on the recent prices for copper and silver.
This is the best response I've ever seen to copper vs. silver argument.

The audiophile industry is mostly full of lies. Premium cables are one of those lies. More flexible cables are the only reason to pay more, but the premium on those are ridiculous as well. I'm a believer in using power cables to run my speakers. It works great and costs next to nothing. I don't have really high end speakers, but even if I did, I wouldn't be using "better" cables.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Christown on Mon, 30 July 2012, 01:01:51
I use Audio-Technica ATH-M50s hooked up to an Audioengine D1 DAC.

Awesome sound quality, highly recommend either product.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mistakemistake on Mon, 06 August 2012, 09:57:00
I just use Etymotic hf3's. Nothing too exciting compared to what everyone else is rollin with.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rhinofeed on Mon, 06 August 2012, 22:45:51
I'm using the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pros, which I actually reviewed on my website! (http://rhino.im/5s) I'm using them with my Presonus AudioBox 44VSL as my audio interface (sound card), as I do voice recordings for Youtube.

(http://rhinofeed.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_4176.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rudyzhou2 on Wed, 08 August 2012, 02:55:10
Any ultrasone fans here for electronica :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: microsoft windows on Wed, 08 August 2012, 07:46:50
I use a pair of Gateway2000-branded Altec Lansing computer speakers from 1997 on my main PC. They seem to get the job done OK. But I don't use much in the way of headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Anynoupy on Wed, 08 August 2012, 08:34:36
Nothing much compared to what I saw in here, but still, my headphones :

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8430/7739712468_82e92876ff_o.jpg)

By Anynoupy (http://flickr.com/anynoupy).

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7254/7739700848_a1363590de_o.jpg)

Steelseries Siberia V2 Gold Edition. By Anynoupy (http://flickr.com/anynoupy).

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8290/7739706718_e49bcc19f7_o.jpg)

Nokia BH-905i (Bluetooth Headset). By Anynoupy (http://flickr.com/anynoupy).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 08 August 2012, 11:55:08
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 08 August 2012, 11:59:48
Will post my dt880/600 & dt770/250 premium  + fiio e17 + little dot mkiii once the little dot arrives! :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Striketh on Wed, 08 August 2012, 12:09:51
As long as you guys don't have those Dre Beats you're good. I just shake my head when I see people wearing them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 08 August 2012, 12:19:34
As long as you guys don't have those Dre Beats you're good. I just shake my head when I see people wearing them.

You should read this thread for some lolz.

http://www.head-fi.org/t/619494/beats-are-magical-and-other-nearly-criminal-marketing-schemes
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Striketh on Wed, 08 August 2012, 13:53:30
As long as you guys don't have those Dre Beats you're good. I just shake my head when I see people wearing them.

You should read this thread for some lolz.

http://www.head-fi.org/t/619494/beats-are-magical-and-other-nearly-criminal-marketing-schemes

Oh yeah, I already knew about their marketing crap. That's one company I wish would get sued for spreading drivel to the masses.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Wed, 08 August 2012, 13:58:49
Still rockin' the DT880 Pros.
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 08 August 2012, 14:02:56
That sure looks like 880 printed on the cans...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Wed, 08 August 2012, 14:36:17
Uh...yeah...duh.  Can't you read?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Wed, 08 August 2012, 15:11:55
Uh...yeah...duh.  Can't you read?
only headphones, not forum posts
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Namkung on Sat, 11 August 2012, 12:43:34
well.. gave my HD800 a good listen for 2 weeks now and I have to say that these sound absolutely amazing. I owned a pair of hd650s before and have listened to the dt990s (600ohm) which I don't feel are really headphones that I can fairly compare with the hd800s. My listening was done with little dot dac / hrt music streamer ii + little dot mk iv se with of course flac (16/44.1) files / wasapi mode on foobar.
There were lots of things that struck me right away when I listened to these headphones for the first time and it still keeps me amazed. The soundstage on this thing is amazing. if you really close your eyes it feels like you are there. I love listening mostly to classical and I have NEVER heard the Martha Argerich's legendary 1965 recording in the way I did with the 800s. Then there is the imaging? I am not sure if I am using the term correctly but with the hd800s it is very obvious where the sound is coming from. if the mic for the orchestra was positioned in the middle then you can very easily hear X and Y instruments coming from left / right side depending on where they are positioned. Even with non classical pieces, I have never heard many of my songs the way I did with the hd800s (Norah Jone's come away with me album comes to mind). I have read that the hd800s are a technological masterpiece and it really sounds just like that. It sounds like an extremely smart headphone. I could prob go on for a lot longer but the last thing I want to comment on is the bass. The bass with these phones are very clean and what surprised me the most was HOW the bass sounded. It almost sounded "3D" . the bass seemed to be multi layered and this is something I couldn't hear with the 650s that I had before. Again, the fact that these headphones are so "smart" is extremely apparent here. I posted pictures on the other thread (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=33293.0) so I won't bother posting them here again.

Was reading through the last few pages of this thread and I found the cable discussion pretty interesting haha. I am a sucker for these things and have recabled all of my audio equipment (did not recable my hd800s yet but I will be purchasing moon audio's black dragon cable soon). I purchased a van den hul optical cable, jenna ultra's cryo treated copper rca interconnects, hospital grade power cables, monster clean power surge, and i recabled my hd650s with the oracles from enigma audio. Now I personally think I have pretty good ears when it comes to listening to music considering that I was born perfect pitch and learned / played piano for 15 years+ of my life. But I also know the placebo effect is VERY VERY real . Each time I got my new cables, I felt like I heard slight differences in the sound but after awhile I came to believe it was probably mostly / entirely just a placebo effect but even if I had the hindsight to see this, I would have bought the cables for aesthetic reasons alone. Dem cryo copper cables are sexy ;)
(http://i.imgur.com/cnrnB.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Mon, 13 August 2012, 10:51:47
i had AKG K701, but sold them as i never really used them that much

i just use my Triple-Fi's now, and my AD700
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: emptyk on Tue, 14 August 2012, 09:21:43
Just got some MEElectronic M21 earphones as a cheap set for use at the gym, etc. Very pleased with the sound for only about $20.00. I think earphone technology is getting better and cheaper every year.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 14 August 2012, 19:54:42
Finally got my little dot mk III! It really does bring out the true strength of the dt 880/600 :D
Looking to upgrade to a Peachtree Dac*it if i can ever find one for a decent price.

PC usb -> E17 w/ L7 Line out -> monoprice premium RCA -> LDMKIII -> dt 880/600

(http://i.imgur.com/Ieqwf.jpg)

My "portable" setup: Sansa fuze 36gb -> LOD -> cardas cable -> E17 -> dt 770/250 premium

(http://i.imgur.com/mePDS.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 12 September 2012, 06:14:46
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Calade on Wed, 12 September 2012, 14:40:30
I've had a Sennheiser PC-360 headset for quite some time now, and they're the most comfortable thing to ever touch my head. Better than pillows, I'm telling you. Perfect for hours and hours and hours of gaming, since your ears don't start to hurt at all. Sound quality in both input and output is also really good, but the bass is not always as deep as one would hope when listening to music. Really solid and stylish piece of gear, too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: csm725 on Mon, 17 September 2012, 12:07:11
Everyone in here with the fancy gear makes me jealous...
(http://i.imgur.com/VvZgV.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Drakan290 on Sat, 22 September 2012, 18:13:23
Just picked up a set of DT990 premiums and an E17 to pair with my E9. I think I'm in love, upgrading from e9+700PROmk2's
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 22 September 2012, 18:25:27
I may have missed the post, but I'm surprised no one has any IEMs

http://www.jhaudio.com/product/jh5-pro-custom-ear-monitor

I ordered these in January, they didn't like the molds I sent them and I've been too lazy ever since to get another set to them.  I should probably do that someday soon.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: modulor on Mon, 24 September 2012, 10:52:23
I may have missed the post, but I'm surprised no one has any IEMs

http://www.jhaudio.com/product/jh5-pro-custom-ear-monitor

I ordered these in January, they didn't like the molds I sent them and I've been too lazy ever since to get another set to them.  I should probably do that someday soon.

I've got a set of HiFiMan RE-262's that I love, but I prefer full headphones personally.  I've never tried, or considered, custom molded IEM's...but they seem interesting and I imagine would offer maximum comfort (one reason I prefer full headphones).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tcv on Mon, 24 September 2012, 17:53:54
Currently have the SRH940.

I've owned Sennheiser 555, Audio Technica M50s and Steelseries 7H.

Shure headphones are great but Sennheiser is probably the best brand.

ATH was good and I didn't enjoy the Steelseries headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 29 September 2012, 03:42:35
[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]
Denon AH-D5000's and and O2 amp  :cool:
Title: Re: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tcv on Sun, 30 September 2012, 16:45:05
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
Denon AH-D5000's and and O2 amp  :cool:

Those are sick. I looked at them and some Beyerdynamics before my last purchase.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sun, 30 September 2012, 20:50:55
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
Denon AH-D5000's and and O2 amp  :cool:

Those are sick. I looked at them and some Beyerdynamics before my last purchase.
Thanks, they are the first higher end cans I purchased. I was literally in tears the first time I used them, couldn't believe how much I wasn't hearing before with my M-50's. My next goal is a pair of Audeze LCD 3's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Will@Drop on Tue, 02 October 2012, 02:43:44
Any love for the thunderpants mod? Was one of the first guys on head-fi to embark on that quest. This is a pic I took before putting the drivers back in and wiring them up.

(http://i.imgur.com/h8cp5.jpg)

Made some damn nice cables for them as well.

(http://i.imgur.com/BT18C.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Tue, 02 October 2012, 03:06:58
I have sony mdr-v6's and am looking at a pair denon ah-d2000's to replace them. Also looking at beyerdynamic dv 797 PV's for a nice headset. I also have maudio bx5a v2's which i place to replace with Adam A3X's. I have no clue if all of these even have the same sound profile.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Internauta on Tue, 02 October 2012, 19:42:00
Looking to buy some headphones, my budget is around hundred-fitty. I think that would be reasonable price range if I got a decent sound card, such as the Asus Xonar DX http://tinyurl.com/8lh4vos (not included in ideal budget)

Any suggestions on what to buy? I'm afraid to buy something and try it since many headphones are uncomfortable since I have glasses, mainly on the bumpy bus ride(s) for 2 hours a day. Listen to heavy metal and electronic mainly, so a clean EQ would be ideal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 02 October 2012, 19:48:13
Looking to buy some headphones, my budget is around hundred-fitty. I think that would be reasonable price range if I got a decent sound card, such as the Asus Xonar DX[url]http://www.amazon.com/PCI-Express-Channel-XONAR_DX-XD-90-YAA060-1UAN00Z/dp/B0017DJXG6/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1349224629&sr=8-7&keywords=asus+soundcard/url] (not included in ideal budget)

Any suggestions on what to buy? I'm afraid to buy something and try it since many headphones are uncomfortable since I have glasses, mainly on the bumpy bus ride(s) for 2 hours a day. Listen to heavy metal and electronic mainly, so a clean EQ would be ideal.

Wait... so is this for portable or home use? A ultrasone HFI-580 (with velour pads) might be a good choice if you don't plan on getting a amp. It's on the bassy side, but what would be "clean" to you?

Maybe a noontec zoro? Creative Aurvana live? They're highly praised by tyll, one of the most influential people in the headphone biz.

On a side note... I ordered a dt990/600 last week and got it on wednesday. Have to say that I don't like the brightness of the dt990 compared to the 880. The bass was nice for some genres, but I didn't appreciate the thumping most of the time. Gonna have to send them back sometime this week.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Internauta on Tue, 02 October 2012, 20:29:31
Looking to buy some headphones, my budget is around hundred-fitty. I think that would be reasonable price range if I got a decent sound card, such as the Asus Xonar DX[url]http://www.amazon.com/PCI-Express-Channel-XONAR_DX-XD-90-YAA060-1UAN00Z/dp/B0017DJXG6/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1349224629&sr=8-7&keywords=asus+soundcard/url] (not included in ideal budget)

Any suggestions on what to buy? I'm afraid to buy something and try it since many headphones are uncomfortable since I have glasses, mainly on the bumpy bus ride(s) for 2 hours a day. Listen to heavy metal and electronic mainly, so a clean EQ would be ideal.

Wait... so is this for portable or home use? A ultrasone HFI-580 (with velour pads) might be a good choice if you don't plan on getting a amp. It's on the bassy side, but what would be "clean" to you?

Maybe a noontec zoro? Creative Aurvana live? They're highly praised by tyll, one of the most influential people in the headphone biz.

On a side note... I ordered a dt990/600 last week and got it on wednesday. Have to say that I don't like the brightness of the dt990 compared to the 880. The bass was nice for some genres, but I didn't appreciate the thumping most of the time. Gonna have to send them back sometime this week.
A bit of both, portable wouldn't be essential to have great audio but definitely a more enjoyable listening experience than these low-range in ear buds ive used for years. Id say any EQ that doesn't make metal and rock sound muddy, since it what I mostly listen to. I don't have much experience with audio, which may reflect my inaccurate opinions, but would love to get into audio! Ill check out those headphones and similar ones, thanks!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 02 October 2012, 20:39:49
If you can spend a little more, and don't mind IEMs, go for a VSonic gr07. They're amazing flat, and slightly warm sounding IEMS. I love how they sound with my Fiio e17 and +4 treble. Pretty good instrumental separation and detail. They also come with lots of tips, so one is bound to fit you properly.

They're my current choice of IEMs for portable/private listening.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Tue, 02 October 2012, 21:27:55
Looking to buy some headphones, my budget is around hundred-fitty. I think that would be reasonable price range if I got a decent sound card, such as the Asus Xonar DX http://tinyurl.com/8lh4vos (not included in ideal budget)

Any suggestions on what to buy? I'm afraid to buy something and try it since many headphones are uncomfortable since I have glasses, mainly on the bumpy bus ride(s) for 2 hours a day. Listen to heavy metal and electronic mainly, so a clean EQ would be ideal.
Try the Audio Technica M50's. They are an amazing entry level audiophile quality set. Careful, audio can be  even more of a slippery slope than keyboards when it comes to your wallet and addiction.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 02 October 2012, 21:55:45
The ATH m50's are nice, but they are NOT comfortable for glasses users. They clamp very hard, and the leather doesn't distribute the clamp very well. The HFI-580 is in the same price range, and is much more comfortable if you get velour pads for them.

Edit: Would also like to add the v-moda m-80. Very good SQ but comfort may be questionable. I've tried them out, and they clamped fairly hard but my friend told me that you can stretch out the headband so that it doesn't clamp as hard.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: _js_ on Wed, 03 October 2012, 17:39:45
I have a Macbook Pro with Apogee Duet (FireWire version) and Grado SR225's.  For mobile listening, just an iPhone 4 and Sennheiser PX100's.  Wish they still sold those.  Don't like the PX100 II's nearly as much.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: swagpiratex on Wed, 03 October 2012, 17:46:43
Going to cop a pair of DT770 Pro/250 today that I found off Craigslist :D

Will post how they are, will be driven by a dinosaur of a receiver. Pictures to come.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 03 October 2012, 17:49:02
I love mine :)   and that's driven by a crap $20 Behringer headphone distro amp (4 outputs).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 03 October 2012, 20:08:54
Going to cop a pair of DT770 Pro/250 today that I found off Craigslist :D

Will post how they are, will be driven by a dinosaur of a receiver. Pictures to come.

Nice! They'll serve you well as long as you power them properly.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Thu, 04 October 2012, 01:23:57
Quote
Going to cop a pair of DT770 Pro/250 today that I found off Craigslist :D<br /><br />Will post how they are, will be driven by a dinosaur of a receiver. Pictures to come.
Lucky dog i wish that stuff popped up in my area.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: swagpiratex on Thu, 04 October 2012, 02:47:09
Best part is I copped both for $190 total :o

(http://i.imgur.com/56Qg5.jpg)

Kept the receiver that my grandparents bought when they moved to America. Unfortunately they aren't around for me to ask how old the receivers are, but it seems like they drive my DT770 Pro/250's pretty well. Very different from the Grados that I trashed in HS.

(http://i.imgur.com/CNCsV.jpg) (http://imgur.com/CNCsV)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lethal Squirrel on Thu, 04 October 2012, 15:10:34
Ahhh man. I'm jelly of all these nice headphone/amp setups.  All I have is a pair of AKG k240's and a Dayton DTA-100a amp. (http://i.imgur.com/0lraY.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 04 October 2012, 18:13:50
Older receivers will power headphones very well since they were intended for headphones with really high impedances.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: swagpiratex on Thu, 04 October 2012, 19:27:46
Woot, that's a relief :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Internauta on Thu, 04 October 2012, 21:58:11
So I was thinking about the AudioTechnica M50s. Just a question, would it be better to spend a bit more on the headphones, or get the M50s and  an amp? I wouldn't mind not having an amp for portable listening.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 04 October 2012, 22:03:18
A amp isn't gonna do too much for the M50s as they're already very efficient and don't scale up too well. What's your budget? Are you only looking for portable headphones?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lethal Squirrel on Thu, 04 October 2012, 22:32:53
Okay, i have a question for anyone willing to answer. I have a pair of AKG K240's as you can tell from above. I've been feeling unsatisfied with them lately and have thought about upgrading. I've been looking at the DT 770 PRO's for a while. Do you think those would be a good upgrade? I know that the AKG's are open and the beyerdynamic's aren't so it's a bit different to compare. but as far as actual quality goes, how much better are they? Maybe you have a different suggestion? I like it a taaaad on the bassy side, which is what I the akg's seem to lack.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 04 October 2012, 22:37:50
Quote
- 80Ohm (PRO)

The 80Ohm model has the most bass out of all the DT770 models. The bass is nice and pronounced with having good impact and depth, though when under amped it can have a mind of it's own. When underamped the bass gets bloated and flabby. The mids are probably the fullest of the DT770 line up but still on the recessed side. The treble is presented nicely although it sounds like it slightly rolled off. The treble is also the smoothest of the DT770 line. The soundstage is smaller then the rest though and certainly smaller than the DT770/250Ohm, most likely due to the bass and treble. This ehadphone it really good for rock, rap, metal, and any other bassy music genre's.

 

-250Ohm (PRO)

The Pro version sounds almost the same but the thing that is most different is the clamping force of the headband. It clamps quite tight, while the other models have a looser fit. Also the soundstage on this model seems smaller cause of the clamp and the bass is also pronounced because of the clamp as well. Other than that it sounds the same.

Source (http://www.head-fi.org/t/513393/guide-sonic-differences-between-dt770-dt990-models-more)

You might find the bass that you're looking for in the 80ohm pro version. Is there any place where you can try them out first? Maybe look into Ultrasones, they're very bassy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 04 October 2012, 22:45:01
The 250Ohm need an amp to produce bass, without an amp it's obviously missing. As for head clamping, I don't find them to be tight at all.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lethal Squirrel on Thu, 04 October 2012, 22:58:23
I have a dayton DTA-100a amp : )
Not sure if that would be adequate for it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 04 October 2012, 23:13:46
I have a dayton DTA-100a amp : )
Not sure if that would be adequate for it.

Not sure how much voltage it will output @ 250ohms... but it'll be better than having no amp. Again, look into ultrasones. I feel that the dt770 is weak compared to the dt880 as long as your not listening in an noisy environment.

Clamping is pretty subjective, and it's a huge deal if you wear glasses. A new premium beyer headphone to me clamps slightly hard, but not nearly as hard as the M50s did when i first got them. The beyer's clamp problem can be easily fixed by bending the headband to 180 degrees or more.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RickyJ on Fri, 05 October 2012, 13:54:57
My 990Pro are comfortable with my glasses. I game for hours without any discomfort.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 05 October 2012, 14:53:14
My 990Pro are comfortable with my glasses. I game for hours without any discomfort.

The dt880 and dt990 share the same earpads, so i'd have to agree.

Edit: didnt see the pro, but yeah you can still stretch out the headband on the pros anyways.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Fri, 05 October 2012, 16:01:38
I did find the 880Pro's head band to be a little tight.  Easy to adjust, though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Will@Drop on Fri, 05 October 2012, 18:34:43
My 990Pro are comfortable with my glasses. I game for hours without any discomfort.

Really? I have those gunnar glasses and DT990's. Are the pro earpads more cushy?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: justin one on Fri, 05 October 2012, 21:54:31
I used to rock the ATH-AD700s but switched to HD555s. Modded them to HD595s and they're great.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 06 October 2012, 06:07:11
My 990Pro are comfortable with my glasses. I game for hours without any discomfort.

Really? I have those gunnar glasses and DT990's. Are the pro earpads more cushy?

The pro and the premium use the same earpads.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 10 October 2012, 21:08:39
So I haven't listen to my 990 in awhile, so I dug it up and haven't left my head in a few hours. Not sure why I enjoy listening to piano on this. Currently listening to: http://www.amazon.com/The-Chopin-Collection-Artur-Rubinstein/dp/B000026OW3/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 10 October 2012, 21:35:38
So I haven't listen to my 990 in awhile, so I dug it up and haven't left my head in a few hours. Not sure why I enjoy listening to piano on this. Currently listening to: http://www.amazon.com/The-Chopin-Collection-Artur-Rubinstein/dp/B000026OW3/

What do you normally use?
Title: Re: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tcv on Mon, 15 October 2012, 23:24:31
I used to rock the ATH-AD700s but switched to HD555s. Modded them to HD595s and they're great.

I miss my hd555s. :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Tue, 16 October 2012, 04:57:58
Oh forgot about this thread. I been listening to HD600. My general purpose phone on the computer is my 880/600 though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pexon on Wed, 17 October 2012, 10:38:48
I am currently re-wiring and sleeving my DT770's, so I'll report back in a few days with the results!  :cool:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: asura on Wed, 17 October 2012, 11:28:22
Not really a headphone person... Have a pair of Sennheiser in-ears (no idea what model, no in-line volume control) which are either in my SansaClip, or plugged into an X-FI card in my computer...  I've never really had the need for cans in my life...

However, I am currently enjoying the noise from a pair of Goodmans K2's (circa 1970) that I just finished renovating; replacement of one 12" driver and one 2.75" tweet with matching units from a donor cab, finally replacing the naff, powdering acoustic foam used to seat the drivers with neoprene tubing.  They're currently being driven by a NAD C340 with a NAD C541 as the source... but those could both be changing soonish.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 17 October 2012, 21:21:32
I demand more pics of setups! Feed me! Some pretty tube amps would be nice to see.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: asura on Thu, 18 October 2012, 13:01:13
I have a prime lens on the way, so when it arrives I'll take some photos.  Still no where near perfect - I want an active crossover so that I can split the pre-amp signal from the 340 for the K2 drivers; mids+tweets on my C340 power channels, and a 3020 each for the bass.  I have a couple of "spare" 12" drivers floating around for which I might knock up a horn cab for...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Seltox on Fri, 19 October 2012, 05:02:50
Audio Technica M50s, out of an Asus Xonar Essence STX.

(http://i.imgur.com/Ux4dzl.jpg)
(http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=87326&stc=1&d=1224607642)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: swagpiratex on Fri, 19 October 2012, 11:10:40
damn, that would sound nice....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ranviper on Fri, 19 October 2012, 12:46:52
Plantronics gamecom 377. Great headset for 40 bucks. Very good virtual surround and the mic is clear and crisp.

(http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/6709/001mxi.jpg)

I use it in conjunction with an Asus Xonar 5.1 card. Works well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Seltox on Fri, 19 October 2012, 12:49:57
I have some Gamecom 777's here too, actually.  They were really quite comfortable, but after a few straight hours made my left ear hurt.  Sounded great for the price though, and the mic was good!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Scottyyy on Thu, 25 October 2012, 01:38:51
I need new earpads for my Denon D5000s. I wonder if Denon sell replacements :x
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pexon on Fri, 26 October 2012, 17:37:13
Got my Fostex T50RP in the post the other day... SOOOOO NICE! Gonna go hella mad on the mods on 'em
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dabboo on Fri, 26 October 2012, 20:11:32
I'm really liking the BeyerDynamic DT770 PROs, I think I'll be buying some of them really soon. God damn, now I'm addicted to key caps and headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pexon on Sat, 27 October 2012, 07:06:37
The DT770's are epic phones for the price.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ACallander on Sat, 27 October 2012, 07:51:53
So I wonder, what's a good headset for 50% gaming (fps) and 50% music (classic rock, blues, rock, etc...)

Anyone have any recommendations?

Preferably with a mic but if not what mic to recommend?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Sat, 27 October 2012, 08:37:54
Mod mic is pretty popular...  I am quite happy with my DT770 Pro 250's for everything.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sat, 27 October 2012, 17:02:05
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Scurq on Tue, 30 October 2012, 20:12:39
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Ux4dzl.jpg)


I got those on my head right now, without the s (straight cable) and i love em, eargasm.
I also got some HD598 and AKG K 242
im probably going to buy a decent DAC and a amp for them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dabboo on Wed, 31 October 2012, 23:41:11
Look what came in the mail today!

(http://i.imgur.com/i0rJa.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/CWUvK.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/gLyik.jpg)


I still need an amp to balance them out as the one side seems to be slightly bassier but it's only a tiny amount, most people wouldn't notice it. I'll likely get the Fiio E10.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: winzds on Fri, 02 November 2012, 13:55:43
Sennheiser pc 360
Title: Re: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tcv on Sun, 04 November 2012, 06:22:02
Look what came in the mail today!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/i0rJa.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/CWUvK.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/gLyik.jpg)



I still need an amp to balance them out as the one side seems to be slightly bassier but it's only a tiny amount, most people wouldn't notice it. I'll likely get the Fiio E10.

Those look really sick.

I still think next time I buy a pair of head phones i'm going with sennheiser or an expensive IEM headphone
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lethal Squirrel on Sun, 04 November 2012, 19:35:05
Anyone know why my new 250ohm DT 770 PROs are crackling and distorting when I play digital piano with them?

seems to happen most with d# and e.

I know its not the piano because its fine with other headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Sun, 04 November 2012, 19:40:32
Sounds like bad amping.  Quickest way to get similar results in windows:  Set software volume to low, set soundcard volume to high, set headphone amp volume to low...   Or something like that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lethal Squirrel on Sun, 04 November 2012, 19:43:24
I'm plugged directly into the piano though, and it's fine with my AKG K240s : /

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lethal Squirrel on Sun, 04 November 2012, 19:49:04
well, I just plugged my amp into the piano, then the headphones into the amp, and same results. I dont notice any distortion with my AKGs, and I dont notice any distortion when listening to music with the DT 770s, I guess there must be some frequency that the headphones just dont like from the piano, idk.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Sun, 04 November 2012, 22:21:10
I used my DT880 Pros daily, but I have to say that Sennheiser builds more comfortable pairs.  The 880s get heavy after several hours, which tends to bother the crown of my head.  My modded HD-558s don't have the problem, since they are all plastic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Wed, 07 November 2012, 21:44:54
It may be the thin cushion on the headband of the Pro. You can stuff it with some foam to see if it helps. The headband cushion is only held on with snaps, so easily done/reversible.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ascaii on Fri, 09 November 2012, 06:10:58
I got myself a pair of Sennheiser HD598s about 3 months ago and the difference to my old 280s was immense...last week, I received my Fiio e10 from amazon.
I didn`t think it would make as big a difference as it did...but Im reexperiencing a lot of music since I am running this combo. I can definitely recommend this low cost DAC.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Fri, 09 November 2012, 11:32:03
I went from the HD428 to the HD558 and removed the foam baffle (which is supposed to make them more like the 598).  They are completely different headphones just driven by a laptop, so there really isn't a comparison.  :)  I'm driving them with a Martix Mini-I and they sound great.  I'm still tempted to pickup a set of 650s, but I just don't think the price hike is worth it.

I also have a Fiio (E17), which does a pretty good job at driving the DT880 Pros.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Fri, 09 November 2012, 12:09:45
Anyone here have any comfort issues with the ATH M50s? I just got mine a couple days ago and they put pressure right under my ear were my jaws are...It gets uncomfortable to have them on for more than 5 minutes.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 09 November 2012, 12:15:32
The E17 can drive the 250ohm beyers fine, but are inadequate for the 600ohms. Ahh someone lend me their hd 600/650 so that I can try it out with my rig! I can lend you my dt770/250 :O
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 09 November 2012, 12:17:05
Anyone here have any comfort issues with the ATH M50s? I just got mine a couple days ago and they put pressure right under my ear were my jaws are...It gets uncomfortable to have them on for more than 5 minutes.

I did when I first got my M50s during the summer. You can stretch out the headband by leaving the headphones between some pillows or books. It should get better after a day or two of doing that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The_Beast on Fri, 09 November 2012, 12:42:09
Are soundcards really worth it? If so what's the best one around $70? Or am I better off buying an amp?


BTW I have Audio Technica AD700s but I'm looking to upgrade somewhat soon
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Fri, 09 November 2012, 12:49:18
I stopped buying sound cards since the early Audigy days, as the on-board chips had improved enough that they worked reasonably well.  For audio, I've gone with combo DAC/amps running off of a digital output so that you can get a clean analog path away from the noisy PC environment.  That way the DAC can stay through multiple PC generations.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 09 November 2012, 13:30:41
If you game a lot, get a soundcard for the processing effects. Otherwise it'll be better to get a dedicated amp/dac.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ChaoticKinesis on Fri, 09 November 2012, 13:54:14
Disagree about the need for processing effects. I had a Xonar DX and hated its Dolby Headphone feature, along with every other surround effect offered. The benefits of DSP are very subjective.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 09 November 2012, 14:10:10
A lot of people prefer the EAX effects on creative cards. I don't play any game that would give me a substantial benefit from processing effects, so I can't comment on that. On the other hand, a sound card will give you a banded EQ if your onboard chip doesn't have it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The_Beast on Fri, 09 November 2012, 14:34:48
So DAC > AMP > Soundcard?


What's a good DAC around $70? Any good amps around that price?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 09 November 2012, 14:47:29
So DAC > AMP > Soundcard?


What's a good DAC around $70? Any good amps around that price?

A soundcard is a DAC, but usually when we say DAC, we mean a stand-alone DAC. Generally if you don't have an amp, it will give you a bigger benefit than a dac would, especially for a full sized headphone or for higher impedance headphones.

At $70, I would suggest the Fiio E10 as a dac/amp. The E7 is an alternative if you would like to use it as a portable amp as well. I have a E17 that i use for my portable setup, and I love it with my Vsonic gr07.

If you don't want a combo, the DAC destroyer(ebay) is a good choice for a budget DAC. This (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Class-A-Hybrid-Tube-Headphone-Amplifier-6N11-Pre-AMP-/120698390588?pt=US_Home_Audio_Amplifiers_Preamps&hash=item1c1a2f483c) or this (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Class-Hybrid-Tube-Headphone-Amplifier-6922EH-Pre-AMP-/110661860034?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item19c3f5fac2) would make a pretty good choice too. I've never used any of these myself, but they have been recommended on headfi quite a few times.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aggiejy on Sat, 10 November 2012, 22:41:21
I got myself a pair of Sennheiser HD598s about 3 months ago and the difference to my old 280s was immense...last week, I received my Fiio e10 from amazon.
I didn`t think it would make as big a difference as it did...but Im reexperiencing a lot of music since I am running this combo. I can definitely recommend this low cost DAC.

Funny, I just ordered 598s yesterday, and got a Fiio e10 yesterday.  Looking forward to trying them out! 

I had Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 before as people said they were super comfortable.  I found them like head clamps.  So I ordered a pair of AKG K 272 HD which I got yesterday, also on the recommendation they are among the most comfortable.  They're not head clamps, but the top strap was pulling pretty hard against the top of my head due to the stretchy elastic.  I don't think I have a big head, but who knows... nothing seems to feel good for extended listening.  Or I'm just a whiney *****. :)   

Anyway, hoping the 598s are as comfortable as the reviews suggest, but I guess my track record isn't great.  (Don't get me started on in-ear stuff...)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Sat, 10 November 2012, 22:49:03
Interesting, they actually sell a 770/80 model with even more severe clamping according to what I've read (the 770 M).  It's supposed to be for 'drummers and monitoring purposes'

I find my 770/250 Pros to be very comfy although after a few hours the band does press down into my poor head.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aggiejy on Sat, 10 November 2012, 22:55:28
Yeah, I successfully stretched them a bit and they were much better.  They certainly weren't uncomfortable for short sessions.  I guess my problem is that I usually leave my headphones on all day while working.  Hard to find much that's comfortable for 8-10 hours.  Sadly, the least fatiguing I have are <shudder>Bose</shudder> AE2.  But even then, the fake leather (or whatever it is) makes my ears sweat after a while.  And they don't sound all that good, not that I claim to be a snobby audiophile or anything. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The_Beast on Sat, 10 November 2012, 23:04:38
I can wear my  Audio Technica AD700s all day with minimal adjustments. They are the only headphones I've used but they are so comfortable it's ridiculous
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aggiejy on Sat, 10 November 2012, 23:10:03
I can wear my  Audio Technica AD700s all day with minimal adjustments. They are the only headphones I've used but they are so comfortable it's ridiculous
Yeah! I was looking at some Audio Technica's with that same type suspension system... looked super comfortable!  It's just that it looked similar to the AKG pair I just got (which weren't perfect) so I thought I'd try a traditional top strap with more padding (the Sennheiser 598).  But if that doesn't work, I might try some like yours!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The_Beast on Mon, 19 November 2012, 02:40:10
So my  motherboard has a Realtek ALC898, I see that the Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium HD is coming on sale soon. So is a $100 DAC still better than that? Or am I better off investing in better headphones (current and only pair, AD700s)

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16829102033&nm_mc=EMC-IGNEFL111912&cm_mmc=EMC-IGNEFL111912-_-EMC-111912-Index-_-SoundCards-_-29102033-L07B


Also, I've had some compliant about my mic. I've tried 2 different mics, both were the $10 desktop Logitech ones, is it the mic or the onboard soundcard  that is the issue with low audio input (my headphones sound fine)?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ChaoticKinesis on Mon, 19 November 2012, 03:36:46
I'd skip the sound card and put my money toward headphones. The difference will be far more noticeable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 19 November 2012, 03:58:28
Spend the 100 on a real dac to power your phones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: codymaust on Tue, 27 November 2012, 00:24:39
Old pic, but... Beyer Dt770
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/1pp7v1thjuz3kcn/2009-12-31%2023.00.00-11.jpg)

Into a Fiio E10
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aggiejy on Wed, 28 November 2012, 22:31:57
Just to followup - I posted a few weeks back about looking for a comfortable headphones. 

I had previous owned DT 770 Pro 80s, which were comfortable but headclamps.  (Stretching didn't seem to help much.)

So then I ordered a pair of AKG K272 HD (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0028N78KC/)s.  They had glorious comfort reviews, but I thought they pulled down on the top of my head harder than if they were just sitting on there due to the elastic tention on the auto-adjusting headband.  Such a weird thing.

Anyway, I returned those a few days later (to Amazon) and ordered Sennheiser HD 598 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042A8CW2/)s. 

[attachimg=1]

OMG... they didn't look like they'd be more comfortable than the AKGs, but man, they are wonderful.  I guess I have a sensitive head or something, because I pretty much think everything is uncomfortable, but these are wonderful.  I do sometimes wear a hat if I'll have them on all day for both the dreaded hair impression and also because it's a bit more comfortable.

Oh, they sound great too. I use them with a Fiio E10.  (But, comfort is 9/10 importance to me, sound is much less.)

That said, it's hard to beat a Bose AE2 headphones for their SUPER light weight.  Problem there is that the ear cups are a fake kind of leather that can sometimes sweat.  Plus, they don't sound good (relatively).

Edit: I also just noticed after posting this than Amazon dropped the price $25 in the past few weeks. :-/  Great value though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tufty on Thu, 29 November 2012, 02:38:39
Sennheisers are lovely.  Swear by 'em.  My HD490s, which replaced my HD430s (which were killed by my parent's sodding jack russell terrier after 14 years of sterling service), are 20 years old now, have traveled around the world with me, and sound as good as they ever did.  Lovely cans, although they are ripe for a foam replacement.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: timofonic on Thu, 29 November 2012, 10:38:44
I'm quite interested in getting some great headphones. But I would like to use a microphone for voip and such.

What about those Sennheiser headphones for gamers? Are those with the same audio quality than the ones more suited for Audiophiles?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 29 November 2012, 12:40:14
You are better off getting good headphones that suit you and a separate mic, such as the modmic (http://www.modmic.com/).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 29 November 2012, 12:52:33
Guys, vote for the Little Dot MK IV at massdrop! I have the MK III and it is a wonderful tube amp paired with the M8161 tubes and the dt880/600.

https://www.massdrop.com/poll
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Thu, 29 November 2012, 13:06:29
Quick question guys. I've decided to go with the NwAvGuy Objective2 amp since I can build it myself for around $40-50 (diy pcb + ac power adapter + my own custom enclosure) vs premade which is ~$150ish, but I'd like a DAC to go alone with it. I can get the objectiveDAC preassembled pcb for $100 (since theres no DIY options for it) which can be soldered to the O2 amp to create a DAC/AMP combo.  I feel like its a good deal since JDS sells the amp/dac combo for $295 and I'd only be paying ~$150 or so. Do I have a better option at that price point (either $150 combo or a $100 DAC to pair with the amp)?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: timofonic on Thu, 29 November 2012, 14:10:20
You are better off getting good headphones that suit you and a separate mic, such as the modmic (http://www.modmic.com/).

Are there distributors in Europe?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 29 November 2012, 14:14:54
Quick question guys. I've decided to go with the NwAvGuy Objective2 amp since I can build it myself for around $40-50 (diy pcb + ac power adapter + my own custom enclosure) vs premade which is ~$150ish, but I'd like a DAC to go alone with it. I can get the objectiveDAC preassembled pcb for $100 (since theres no DIY options for it) which can be soldered to the O2 amp to create a DAC/AMP combo.  I feel like its a good deal since JDS sells the amp/dac combo for $295 and I'd only be paying ~$150 or so. Do I have a better option at that price point (either $150 combo or a $100 DAC to pair with the amp)?

At that price, it will be hard to find a combo that specs as well as the ODAC.  I have the Matrix Mini-i myself, but considered the ODAC.  i don't have any personal experience with it, but it gets good reviews in DIY circles.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Alessandro on Thu, 29 November 2012, 14:37:40
Anyone else going to give some love to the HD598s? :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Kabuks on Thu, 29 November 2012, 17:15:20
I swap my Astro a40's between my pc and ps3 for gaming.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bace on Fri, 30 November 2012, 22:37:59
Anyone else going to give some love to the HD598s? :)

I'm thinking of getting a set of HD 598s. I'm looking for a good all rounder for music, movies/shows, and gaming. I currently have a set of Q701 that might give to a friend so I'm looking for a replacement.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sat, 01 December 2012, 04:30:46
Rocking Grados SR60i with bowls ("comfort" pads were just ridiculous).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Makeo on Tue, 04 December 2012, 05:14:52
Had my A700 for a few years now, and I must say they have been amazing. But it's getting about that time to upgrade, so i'm looking for a new pair soon. Looking for a mid-high(ish) cans with an amp. Think I have it narrowed to the DT880's or 990's, or the HD600/650's and possibly the Lil dot MK III for the amp. But not too sure yet as i'm still doing research. Anyone have any other inputs on the DT's or HD's?

Here's my a700's with a lil stand i made for them and my future cans too!

(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a229/Makeo/a700nstand.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 04 December 2012, 06:41:41
Makeo, I can recommend you the Dt880/600 or the dt990/600 with the little dot mkIII as that is my current setup. I do prefer the dt880 over the 990 though, because I bought the 990 once and I felt the treble was too much for me, and i preferred the neutrality of the dt880. The dt880's sound signature works for just about any genre. As for the little dot, try to get the mullard m8161 tubes for them because those tubes really bring out the details and soundstage, and simply makes the mids come alive.

Be sure to check up on massdrop within the next week or so, they might have a groupbuy on the little dot mk iv. I hope that this helped!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: durainello on Tue, 04 December 2012, 09:04:28
Ah...a familiar place
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: codymaust on Tue, 04 December 2012, 10:41:31
Just throwing this out there... If any of you guys are looking custom mods or custom cabling, Brian Goto at http://btg-audio.webs.com is worth consideration.

I had my DT770's modded by him and his work really is exceptional. He's very well known over at the Head-Fi forums.


In other news, I'm in the market for a pair of openback cans.. I love my 770s but I just hate the isolation sometimes. I was thinking Grados, but I have no way of testing anything, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bace on Tue, 04 December 2012, 10:52:09
I'm getting my HD 598s in today! can't wait!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 04 December 2012, 11:19:16
Just throwing this out there... If any of you guys are looking custom mods or custom cabling, Brian Goto at http://btg-audio.webs.com is worth consideration.

I had my DT770's modded by him and his work really is exceptional. He's very well known over at the Head-Fi forums.


In other news, I'm in the market for a pair of openback cans.. I love my 770s but I just hate the isolation sometimes. I was thinking Grados, but I have no way of testing anything, unfortunately.

Thanks for the link! I'm gonna consider getting my dt880 recabled or detachable cable modded. You should really get the dt880 if you love your 770.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Alessandro on Tue, 04 December 2012, 11:23:12
I'm getting my HD 598s in today! can't wait!

You're going to love them!

Test out the amazing soundstage, the first thing you need to watch is the Virtual Barber Shop video.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bace on Tue, 04 December 2012, 11:31:57
I'm getting my HD 598s in today! can't wait!

You're going to love them!

Test out the amazing soundstage, the first thing you need to watch is the Virtual Barber Shop video.

roger!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 04 December 2012, 15:50:51
Selling my dt770/250 if anyone is interested, check out my classifieds thread.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=29455.0
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Makeo on Tue, 04 December 2012, 16:23:49
Makeo, I can recommend you the Dt880/600 or the dt990/600 with the little dot mkIII as that is my current setup. I do prefer the dt880 over the 990 though, because I bought the 990 once and I felt the treble was too much for me, and i preferred the neutrality of the dt880. The dt880's sound signature works for just about any genre. As for the little dot, try to get the mullard m8161 tubes for them because those tubes really bring out the details and soundstage, and simply makes the mids come alive.

Be sure to check up on massdrop within the next week or so, they might have a groupbuy on the little dot mk iv. I hope that this helped!

Thanks for the reply! How comfortable would you say the DT's are? I can seriously wear my a700 for 24hrs+ and not have the slightest fatigue. And I will def keep an eye out on massdrop. That site is pretty awesome lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aggiejy on Tue, 04 December 2012, 16:29:02
I'm the most picky comfort guy ever, and I can couldn't stand my DT770s for very long.  They're comfortable pads, but lots of clamping force.  You can stretch them out a bit though.  Anyway, I've tried a700s before, and they're way more comfortable in every measure IMO.  BUT, DT770s sound amazing.

(I recently got some Senn HD598 though, and they are really comfortable!)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Makeo on Tue, 04 December 2012, 16:57:47
Arggg that's what kinda has me waiting to pull the trigger on a new set. If they sound that good, I might just live with the tightness. But if it is a problem I might venture out to the HD's or possibly some other cans. Need to find a store around me that might have some I can try on.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: codymaust on Tue, 04 December 2012, 17:02:20
Just throwing this out there... If any of you guys are looking custom mods or custom cabling, Brian Goto at http://btg-audio.webs.com is worth consideration.

I had my DT770's modded by him and his work really is exceptional. He's very well known over at the Head-Fi forums.


In other news, I'm in the market for a pair of openback cans.. I love my 770s but I just hate the isolation sometimes. I was thinking Grados, but I have no way of testing anything, unfortunately.

Thanks for the link! I'm gonna consider getting my dt880 recabled or detachable cable modded. You should really get the dt880 if you love your 770.
Yeah man, I can't recommend him enough.

How would you describe the 880s sound? I'm assuming it's not exactly like the 770s, but I do love the sound and the comfort of my Beyers.. I was really only leaning towards Grado because even their cheaper options are well revered (60i/80i)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 04 December 2012, 18:45:18
I'm the most picky comfort guy ever, and I can couldn't stand my DT770s for very long.  They're comfortable pads, but lots of clamping force.  You can stretch them out a bit though.  Anyway, I've tried a700s before, and they're way more comfortable in every measure IMO.  BUT, DT770s sound amazing.

(I recently got some Senn HD598 though, and they are really comfortable!)

Did you try the pro version? Because the premium version barely clamps once you stretch out the headband. They just sit snugly on my head, and are very comfortable for hours even though I wear plastic frame glasses. I've tried the HD600 in store before, and they are similiarly comfortable, except with an oval shape that might fit some ears better. So you won't go wrong with the premium beyers or with the HD600/650, just depends on your sound preference.

How would you describe the 880s sound? I'm assuming it's not exactly like the 770s, but I do love the sound and the comfort of my Beyers.. I was really only leaning towards Grado because even their cheaper options are well revered (60i/80i)

The dt880 sounds very similiar to the 770, but superior in almost every day. Since the dt880's are open, they will have a bigger soundstage and better seperation. They are also much more airy, with a very smooth treble with great extension. The dt770's treble is more peaky and is more prone to sibilance. The mids on the dt880's are also less recessed than on the dt770. As for the bass, the dt880 has less quantity, but more quality; it is very tight and clean, there is more texture to the bass, and you can hear the layering of it. The overall sound signature is very natural and linear, with a little bit of brightness. The brightness though, to me, is non-fatiguing and really brings out the details in my music. As such, the dt880 is great for pretty much every genre unless you listen to really bass-heavy music.

If you have a dedicated desktop amp, I highly recommend getting the 600ohm version. It isn't significantly different from the 250 and 32 ohm versions, but it has the smoothest treble and the best bass texturing as long as it is powered properly. What are you driving your headphones with?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aggiejy on Tue, 04 December 2012, 23:21:11
I'm the most picky comfort guy ever, and I can couldn't stand my DT770s for very long.  They're comfortable pads, but lots of clamping force.  You can stretch them out a bit though.  Anyway, I've tried a700s before, and they're way more comfortable in every measure IMO.  BUT, DT770s sound amazing.

(I recently got some Senn HD598 though, and they are really comfortable!)

Did you try the pro version? Because the premium version barely clamps once you stretch out the headband. They just sit snugly on my head, and are very comfortable for hours even though I wear plastic frame glasses. I've tried the HD600 in store before, and they are similiarly comfortable, except with an oval shape that might fit some ears better. So you won't go wrong with the premium beyers or with the HD600/650, just depends on your sound preference.

Yeah, I had the DT770 Pro 80s.  I bought them because a friend said they were super comfortable, and they felt comfortable when I tried his.  But after getting them, I guess they just never loosened up like I had hoped.  (Even after some stretching of the metal band.)  However, I'm not saying they were super uncomfortable, they just weren't comfortable over long periods for me when compared to the suspended types like the a700... which is hard to beat for comfort.

Regardless, one thing I've learned from trying so many cans... no one agrees exactly on what is comfortable.  Head shapes, head sensitivities, preferences, etc.  My head is like a whiny ***** though, so I'm sure 95% of people would find them comfortable. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bace on Wed, 05 December 2012, 11:09:01
I spent some time with my new HD 598s last night and I can say they are amazing! Great warm, fun sound and extremely comfortable and light. Hits the low end a lot better than my Q701s. They are definitely a great pair of headphones for my genres of music which needs some bass for a great listen. Also works great for movies and gaming. I'm currently using them through a fiio e10. Now I need to add some more hours to them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aggiejy on Wed, 05 December 2012, 11:27:06
I spent some time with my new HD 598s last night and I can say they are amazing! Great warm, fun sound and extremely comfortable and light. Hits the low end a lot better than my Q701s. They are definitely a great pair of headphones for my genres of music which needs some bass for a great listen. Also works great for movies and gaming. I'm currently using them through a fiio e10. Now I need to add some more hours to them.

Nice, congratulations!  I have the exact same setup, e10 too.  They've gotten better with ~40-50 hours, or else I'm just falling further in love with them.  Either way, they sound better that I remember on day one. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 05 December 2012, 12:09:45
Comfort depends on head size a lot. I have very small head (S/M (55cm) hat size), and grados (which are usually considered uncomfortable) are surprisingly OK for me. On the other hand, ATH-AD500 (same as AD700s) fall of my head and feel a bit weird, even though they're praised for comfort.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bace on Wed, 05 December 2012, 12:12:10
I spent some time with my new HD 598s last night and I can say they are amazing! Great warm, fun sound and extremely comfortable and light. Hits the low end a lot better than my Q701s. They are definitely a great pair of headphones for my genres of music which needs some bass for a great listen. Also works great for movies and gaming. I'm currently using them through a fiio e10. Now I need to add some more hours to them.

Nice, congratulations!  I have the exact same setup, e10 too.  They've gotten better with ~40-50 hours, or else I'm just falling further in love with them.  Either way, they sound better that I remember on day one. :)

Thanks! That's great to hear. I'm looking forward to adding some hours to this baby.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Alessandro on Wed, 05 December 2012, 12:13:33
Yep! Got about 30 hours on mine now and they're much better! Solid all round headphones and great value!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Fri, 07 December 2012, 10:54:49
So I was listening to a track on my DT770 Pro 250s that had a nifty bass line and I was thinking... maybe a little more bass?

I don't know if it's WinAmp or what, but attempting to futz with the EQ just made things sound like crap.  I'm wondering however if that track will sound stronger with my Pimeta v2, seriously need to finish that.  Currently running on a crap Behringer headphone distro amp.  Better than not having it, I did check that much at least :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 December 2012, 11:14:06
The gel pads will increase the bass response and isolation for the dt770.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Fri, 07 December 2012, 12:10:39
I'd say either your sound card was clipping when you futzed with the eq or the amp doesn't have enough drive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Fri, 07 December 2012, 12:16:56
As far as I can tell, it's a combination of the amp not having enough and the EQ presets I tried having a major deleterious effect on the mix:  BAD mid/high changes such that the atmosphere really got squelched...

I should start reviewing audio stuff... better yet I should sell it.  I think I've got this indecipherable descriptive language thing down.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 December 2012, 19:24:56
So I went out to the apple store today and bought the Philips Fidelio L1. Not impressed with it so far. It's dark sounding and warm. The vocals and treble just sounds really unnatural. Been using it with my e17 as a dac/amp. Guess I won't really know how I'll really feel til I bring it back to school to try with my decco2 and little dot.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Sat, 08 December 2012, 01:49:39
Ha @ L1. I had my eyes on them too. Listened to them and was like ehhhhh. I almost bought them for the built quality alone. X1 looks nice too. If that has a more balanced sound, I may buy them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 10 December 2012, 11:55:02
I managed to try out the L1 with my desktop setup... and I have to say that I'm not impressed with them at all. Maybe I like the beyer house sound too much >~<

www.sonicelectronix.com authorized retailer for beyerdynamic

EDIT: coupon code no longer works.
EDIT2: OVEREAR10 for 10% off any over-ear headphone.

I managed to get myself the last pair of beyerdynamic t70 for $303 shipped! For other people, the t70p is still available for $320, dt880/600 for $224, dt990/600 for $223.20.

Can't wait to get them! ^^

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Makeo on Mon, 10 December 2012, 13:58:42
I managed to try out the L1 with my desktop setup... and I have to say that I'm not impressed with them at all. Maybe I like the beyer house sound too much >~<

20% off when using the coupon FALLHP www.sonicelectronix.com. (Seems to only work on beyer headphones)

I managed to get myself the last pair of beyerdynamic t70 for $303 shipped! For other people, the t70p is still available for $320, dt880/600 for $224, dt990/600 for $223.20.

Can't wait to get them! ^^


wow thanks for the heads up! I cant pick which one i want to buy tho 880/990? even heard great things about the a900x ffuuuuu  :-\
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 10 December 2012, 14:08:21
Quote
DT880: Has a very linear sound that is incredibly neutral. Still has the strong treble but also has more midrange and bass with an improved soundstage. The most neutral of the DT770-DT990 series line up.

DT990: Has a very strong treble emphasis with shallower sounding mids and more prominent bass. It could be said that this is the beyerdynamics' "fun" headphone. The soundstage is also the biggest of the DT770-DT990 series line up.

Quote
DT880 VS DT990
The DT880 and DT990 have a very similar sound, but the DT990 is noticeably brighter and has much more bass to it.

The DT990's treble is much more pronounced than the DT880 and can be called strident by those who are not used to so much treble energy. I find the DT880 and DT990 to have nearly the same detail in the treble, though the DT990is slightly more detailed. Also th DT990's treble does not sound as refined as the previous two models.

The midrange on the DT990 has a dip to it, this means it has less mids than the DT880. I think a lot of the mids get drowned out by the treble/bass to be honest. From what mids are there, they sound very nice and are quite resolving, even though they are thin. The DT880's mids have more body to them and can portray string instruments and vocals better. On the DT990 the guitars can sound thin and the vocal sound unconvincing. The DT880's mids have almost as much detail as the DT990 while retaining more body with equal amounts of transparency.

Bass on both models is excellent. They both go quite low and extend do depths that human ears cannot hear. The DT990 has far more bass than it's counterpart while keeping it tight and controlled. The one thing I noticed is that the DT990's bass does not have the same texturing to it as the DT880. The DT880's bass is more natural sounding with more definition to it while the DT990's is a fuller sounding bass with more thump.

The soundstage on the DT990 is bigger than the DT880's and has more air to it, though the imaging seems to be nearly identical. The DT880's soundstage has a "in your head" sound while the DT990's seems to go beyond your ears and around your head.

Source: http://www.head-fi.org/t/513393/guide-sonic-differences-between-dt770-dt990-models-more

I used to own the dt990/600 and the bass is ridiculous for open headphones! Though there's lots of bass, it's still very detailed, but probably not as detailed or refined as the dt880's. The treble on the dt990 was a little bit too much for me, even though i'm used to the dt880's treble and even with a tube amp. If you like your bass, go for the dt990 otherwise the dt880 will be good for just about any genre. I prefer the dt880's sound signature much more than the dt990's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Mon, 10 December 2012, 14:46:46
Is there some sort of audiophile dictionary somewhere?


The vocabulary makes shopping for high end audio gear... interesting, to say the least.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 10 December 2012, 14:53:58
Here you go:

http://www.head-fi.org/t/220770/describing-sound-a-glossary
http://www.head-fi.org/a/glossary-of-terms

You won't really fully "understand" the sound describes until you've tried out multiple headphones and compared them side to side, but it's a start!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Mon, 10 December 2012, 15:10:53
It's all so very subjective, you really have to try it for yourself.  The resale on the more popular headphone is pretty decent, so it's not *too* risky to try a few sets out.  If you find that you have a lot of keyboards, you risk becoming ensnared in owning lots of headphones, too.

I use my DT880Pros daily at work.  Other than the weight, which I have mentioned a few times now, they are a really well-rounded set of headphones for all types of music.  The partially-open design masks-out enough background noise to cover distractions without isolating me completely from what is going on around me.  The sound isn't as airy as a true "open" pair, but it's a nice compromise without anything offensive in the response.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Makeo on Tue, 11 December 2012, 20:01:51
Jumped on the 990's just need to find a good amp now. Reading up on them over at head-fi has my brain on the verge of exploding lol. :confused:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 11 December 2012, 20:22:06
I'd recommend an OTL amp to roll off the dt990's treble. A little dot work work pretty well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Sun, 16 December 2012, 11:31:27
I have Beyer-DT770 and Grado's 80i, think I prefer the open design but not sure where to go from here, I kind of want to try another brand.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: wetto on Sun, 16 December 2012, 11:48:51
At least AKG knows how to put beauty and sound quality into one single package:

(https://www.topchoiceelectronics.com/uploads/1333646343_649110.jpg)

Just wish the price were lower...  :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 16 December 2012, 12:30:49
I have Beyer-DT770 and Grado's 80i, think I prefer the open design but not sure where to go from here, I kind of want to try another brand.

Do you like the "beyer house" sound? If so, the dt880 is a pretty significant upgrade from the dt770 especially the 600ohm version if you can power properly. The AKG k701/702 or q701 is another choice; it's brighter and more mid forward but with less bass and an unnaturally large soundstage. Atleast that's what my impressions are based on reading comparisons between the AKGs and the beyers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Sun, 16 December 2012, 17:16:05
as a previous owner of the K701, they're nice, but honestly i wouldn't say they're worth the huge premium that they charge tbh.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Sun, 16 December 2012, 22:33:42
Hows the 990 pro compare to the premium one? Theres about a $100 difference.

Now that i've finished building my O2 amp I need to get some headphones to drive, preferably less than $200 but still strong bass. I only intend these for inside use next to my amp so open is preferred.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: modulor on Sun, 16 December 2012, 22:36:22
I tried my good friends K701s and while they were nice, I was left wanting one of my beyers...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: modulor on Sun, 16 December 2012, 22:39:47
Hows the 990 pro compare to the premium one? Theres about a $100 difference.

Now that i've finished building my O2 amp I need to get some headphones to drive, preferably less than $200 but still strong bass. I only intend these for inside use next to my amp so open is preferred.

This sums up the comparison between the two version quite nicely:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/597760/dt-990-pro-vs-premium#post_8179594
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Sun, 16 December 2012, 22:42:47
So many options, so little money lol

Will my O2 amp drive the 600 ohm versions of the dt 880/990 well?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 17 December 2012, 05:39:54
I'd say that if you don't mind the clamp of the pro version, then just get it to save the money. Otherwise if you don't mind buying used, there's a like-new dt990/600 on Amazon for $194.02. The O2 will definitely get you enough volume for 600 ohm but I'm not sure if it's ideal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 17 December 2012, 07:18:50
I know that this is a headphone thread but I am looking for a nice headset that will properly interface my audio equipment, be a high quality mic, and be a great set of just headphones when needed. I my older DAC is a Edirol FA-66 (http://tinyurl.com/ybl6czr) and the one im currently using is a Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (http://tinyurl.com/agvrrvv). So far I have found the Beyerdynamic DT 797 PV but was wondering if there are any better or more preferred option out there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Mon, 17 December 2012, 18:43:58
My Grado SR80i. Love these babies.

(http://i.imgur.com/ePoln.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 17 December 2012, 20:53:16
I know that this is a headphone thread but I am looking for a nice headset that will properly interface my audio equipment, be a high quality mic, and be a great set of just headphones when needed. I my older DAC is a Edirol FA-66 (http://tinyurl.com/ybl6czr) and the one im currently using is a Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (http://tinyurl.com/agvrrvv). So far I have found the Beyerdynamic DT 797 PV but was wondering if there are any better or more preferred option out there.

Beyer MMX 300, nearly the lowest price in Amazon's history:

http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-MMX-300-Premium-Microphone/dp/B001BYMZ5W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1355799040&sr=8-1&keywords=Beyerdynamic+MMX+30
http://camelcamelcamel.com/Beyerdynamic-MMX-300-Premium-Microphone/product/B001BYMZ5W
Title: Re: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 17 December 2012, 21:45:28
I know that this is a headphone thread but I am looking for a nice headset that will properly interface my audio equipment, be a high quality mic, and be a great set of just headphones when needed. I my older DAC is a Edirol FA-66 (http://tinyurl.com/ybl6czr) and the one im currently using is a Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (http://tinyurl.com/agvrrvv). So far I have found the Beyerdynamic DT 797 PV but was wondering if there are any better or more preferred option out there.

Beyer MMX 300, nearly the lowest price in Amazon's history:

http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-MMX-300-Premium-Microphone/dp/B001BYMZ5W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1355799040&sr=8-1&keywords=Beyerdynamic+MMX+30
http://camelcamelcamel.com/Beyerdynamic-MMX-300-Premium-Microphone/product/B001BYMZ5W
thats a standard pc headset did you look at what I had and what ive found so far?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 17 December 2012, 22:17:38
Im not too familiar with recording equipment, but the MMX 300 might be good for others here.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: modulor on Mon, 17 December 2012, 23:51:19
FYI, the MMX300 is a DT770 Premium 32ohm...it would be better to get a standard DT770 80ohm (or higher impedence if you plan on amping) and an additional clip on mic, or if you're feeling crafty, you can make your own attachment:  http://www.head-fi.org/t/195242/the-ultimate-gaming-headset-beyerdynamic-dt-770-microphone-mod
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ChaoticKinesis on Tue, 18 December 2012, 01:28:52
I just received my ModMic today, to complement my DT880s. I think I'll stick with that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 18 December 2012, 08:01:30
FYI, the MMX300 is a DT770 Premium 32ohm...it would be better to get a standard DT770 80ohm (or higher impedence if you plan on amping) and an additional clip on mic, or if you're feeling crafty, you can make your own attachment:  http://www.head-fi.org/t/195242/the-ultimate-gaming-headset-beyerdynamic-dt-770-microphone-mod

Ahh ok I didn't realize that the MMX 300 was the dt770/32.

I just received my ModMic today, to complement my DT880s. I think I'll stick with that.

I posted the link to that in another thread a while back, how is it?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ChaoticKinesis on Tue, 18 December 2012, 12:32:54
I just received my ModMic today, to complement my DT880s. I think I'll stick with that.

I posted the link to that in another thread a while back, how is it?

Well I'm coming from the Zalman ZM-Mic1. The ModMic is much more sensitive and sounds clearer, so it does not require putting it so close to my mouth. I'm really liking it so far, though I've never really had a higher-end mic to use as reference.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tauburn on Tue, 18 December 2012, 14:32:22
These things have held up pretty well.  Good value.

Show Image
(http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2162/97623829.jpg)


I have the MDR-7506

which is the same headphone but with a blue sticker.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Tue, 18 December 2012, 14:35:54
These things have held up pretty well.  Good value.

Show Image
(http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2162/97623829.jpg)


I have the MDR-7506

which is the same headphone but with a blue sticker.
im heard that the 7506's have even less bass which make them not as flat and slightly more sharp because the cone is stiffer as they assume their going to be used more
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: swagpiratex on Tue, 18 December 2012, 15:35:11
Place my order for a ModMic last week, heard today that they received a new shipment and we should be getting them either this or next week :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tauburn on Tue, 18 December 2012, 20:04:53
These things have held up pretty well.  Good value.

Show Image
(http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2162/97623829.jpg)


I have the MDR-7506

which is the same headphone but with a blue sticker.
im heard that the 7506's have even less bass which make them not as flat and slightly more sharp because the cone is stiffer as they assume their going to be used more


nahh i've owned both. theyre the same thing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Tue, 18 December 2012, 20:14:01
These things have held up pretty well.  Good value.

Show Image
(http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2162/97623829.jpg)


I have the MDR-7506

which is the same headphone but with a blue sticker.
im heard that the 7506's have even less bass which make them not as flat and slightly more sharp because the cone is stiffer as they assume their going to be used more


nahh i've owned both. theyre the same thing.
ever take one apart?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tauburn on Tue, 18 December 2012, 22:04:27
These things have held up pretty well.  Good value.

Show Image
(http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2162/97623829.jpg)


I have the MDR-7506

which is the same headphone but with a blue sticker.
im heard that the 7506's have even less bass which make them not as flat and slightly more sharp because the cone is stiffer as they assume their going to be used more


nahh i've owned both. theyre the same thing.
ever take one apart?

I took my v6 apart after it broke. why?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Tue, 18 December 2012, 22:05:46
These things have held up pretty well.  Good value.

Show Image
(http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2162/97623829.jpg)


I have the MDR-7506

which is the same headphone but with a blue sticker.
im heard that the 7506's have even less bass which make them not as flat and slightly more sharp because the cone is stiffer as they assume their going to be used more


nahh i've owned both. theyre the same thing.
ever take one apart?

I took my v6 apart after it broke. why?
just wondering if you comared the 2 inside because i believe their replacement part number are different too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 20 December 2012, 14:26:24
Just got my T70 yesterday and damn it pretty much sounds like a closed version of the dt880/600 but with MUCH better imaging and detail, though smaller soundstage. I finally put some gel pads on the T70 this morning and WOW, the sub-bass response improved pretty drastically but the treble levels went up a bit as well. Hopefully the burn-in will tame some of that treble.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Vintage on Thu, 20 December 2012, 16:40:39
I have Astro A40s from 2010. The sound quality is pretty good.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tauburn on Fri, 21 December 2012, 09:56:12
These things have held up pretty well.  Good value.

Show Image
(http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2162/97623829.jpg)


I have the MDR-7506

which is the same headphone but with a blue sticker.
im heard that the 7506's have even less bass which make them not as flat and slightly more sharp because the cone is stiffer as they assume their going to be used more


nahh i've owned both. theyre the same thing.
ever take one apart?

I took my v6 apart after it broke. why?
just wondering if you comared the 2 inside because i believe their replacement part number are different too.

no i havent taken both apart.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 22 December 2012, 10:30:37
Helping my friend sell his like-new Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro for $160 shipped if anyone is interested:
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=29455.0

Also, I actually think I prefer the T70 with the stock micro-velour pads rather than the gel pads. Less piercing highers, clearer mids, but a bit less bass and isolation. They also don't get hot and sweaty like the gel pads do.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Fri, 28 December 2012, 11:55:11
So many options, so little money lol

Will my O2 amp drive the 600 ohm versions of the dt 880/990 well?

Even a cmoybb can drive 600 ohms headphones to loud volume levels, but the word well could also mean a whole new ball park of improvements.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lazerpointer on Fri, 28 December 2012, 12:35:48
Just got a pair of Logitech G930 for xmas and God they are the best headphones I've ever used. Just great great sound, and you can switch to 2.0 if you don't like 7.1 like me. Also the software it comes with will change your voice on teamspeak lol great for trolling.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: codymaust on Fri, 28 December 2012, 23:20:21
Got these for Christmas, and for $20 they are hard to beat!
http://www.amazon.com/MEElectronics-M6-CL-MEE-Noise-Isolating-In-Ear-Headphones/dp/B0038W0K2U

Unfortunately, I can't get the cable to straighten out completely so it looks like I have spaghetti hanging from my head
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Sun, 30 December 2012, 14:55:31
Here's some horrible crappy cellphone pics with crappy lighting of what I have on my desk at the moment.

(http://imgur.com/zGFcq.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/aR4c2.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sammsorensen on Sun, 30 December 2012, 21:14:31
Sennheiser HD555s with the 595 mod. I've considered marrying them.

You should consider selling them, or retiring them while they still work.. Their value is only going to increase! Recently sold my 4 year old pair for more than I bought them for.

In regards to this thread, I am currently using Beyerdynamic DT 990 premium 250 ohm.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Tue, 01 January 2013, 02:11:02
Here's some horrible crappy cellphone pics with crappy lighting of what I have on my desk at the moment.

Show Image
(http://imgur.com/zGFcq.jpg)


Show Image
(http://imgur.com/aR4c2.jpg)


you sir belongs to head-fi hahaha.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RougeR on Wed, 02 January 2013, 17:40:54
got a pair of D2Ks
(http://up.org.je/IMAG0070.jpg)
just got my modmic for them
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Wed, 02 January 2013, 21:48:21
you sir belongs to head-fi hahaha.

lol I do spend a fair amount of time lurking over there as well  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ihasmario on Sun, 06 January 2013, 12:53:39
Self explanatory.  :)

(http://ompldr.org/vZ3l4MQ/IMGP3520.JPG)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bigsneakysnake on Sun, 06 January 2013, 16:29:57
(http://i.imgur.com/XSiK4.jpg)
Pretty standard choice, but an amazing one nonetheless. I like these better than the MDR-7506s I had for a couple years.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Alessandro on Sun, 06 January 2013, 16:36:09
Hey atakap, is that the little dot mk1 or 2, and how do you find it in terms of general quality?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 06 January 2013, 16:42:26
Hey atakap, is that the little dot mk1 or 2, and how do you find it in terms of general quality?

That's a WA6. Quite a price & performance gap between the little dots and WA6 :P

http://www.wooaudio.com/products/wa6.html
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Alessandro on Sun, 06 January 2013, 16:52:49
Silly me! Looked a lot like the LD2 on that photo.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Sun, 06 January 2013, 18:22:43
That's actually a WA3 with a vintage Tung Sol 5998 tube. It resembles the sophia princess tube on the WA6 though. I've never owned an LD so I can't comment on that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: KangarooZombies on Sun, 06 January 2013, 20:07:28
Wow those are some petty ritzy headphones...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Mon, 07 January 2013, 15:45:54
http://www.monstercable.com/headphones/eamvp/

Lets all laugh at this.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Firefly303 on Mon, 07 January 2013, 19:17:08
haha EA. reminds me of the $1,000 HDMI cord
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 07 January 2013, 19:51:41
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AKDL1-Dedicated-Link-Cable/dp/B000I1X6PM/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Oh the holy cables...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: KangarooZombies on Mon, 07 January 2013, 23:17:39
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AKDL1-Dedicated-Link-Cable/dp/B000I1X6PM/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Oh the holy cables...
Wait, what? is this for real? Why the high price?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lazerpointer on Tue, 08 January 2013, 11:05:34
More importantly... Is that a Portal gun in those Amazon pics? o_0
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Tue, 08 January 2013, 11:21:40
I just got myself a crack kit, any guidance on tube rolling ?

The numbers, they just seem all too confusing to me. Like the same model number has so many different makes, I think I should be asking this on head-fi but this question seem so noob to be posted there and I'm too lazy to read the tube rolling thread.

Anyway, here is my humble HD600.

(http://i.imgur.com/omcwb.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: llovro on Tue, 08 January 2013, 11:28:49
I have Logitech g930. Pretty sweet headset
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: codymaust on Fri, 11 January 2013, 11:19:14
How do you guys feel about spending $$$ on high-end IEMs?

Just curious, because I had initially thought that I wanted to drop $100-$200 on some nice IEMs, but I've been using $25 Sony earbuds that have plenty good sound quality and a comfortable fit. Not as good as my dt770s, but miles ahead of SkullCandy/iPhone quality.

Idk if I can justify expensive buds/IEMs like I could a full sized set
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 11 January 2013, 13:37:22
How do you guys feel about spending $$$ on high-end IEMs?

Just curious, because I had initially thought that I wanted to drop $100-$200 on some nice IEMs, but I've been using $25 Sony earbuds that have plenty good sound quality and a comfortable fit. Not as good as my dt770s, but miles ahead of SkullCandy/iPhone quality.

Idk if I can justify expensive buds/IEMs like I could a full sized set

It depends on how often you use your IEMs. Do you take them outside when you walk? Commute? If you use them for at least 30 minutes a day, I think that would justify spending the money on some more expensive IEMs. I think if you purchase the Vsonic GR07, you will find that it is close to the DT770's performance. It's not quite there since it's an IEM, but it does have very good sound quality. For reference, I used to own the dt770/250 and I still currently use the gr07 when I go out or commute.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jocelyn on Fri, 11 January 2013, 13:55:58
It depends on how often you use your IEMs. Do you take them outside when you walk? Commute? If you use them for at least 30 minutes a day, I think that would justify spending the money on some more expensive IEMs. I think if you purchase the Vsonic GR07, you will find that it is close to the DT770's performance. It's not quite there since it's an IEM, but it does have very good sound quality. For reference, I used to own the dt770/250 and I still currently use the gr07 when I go out or commute.
This^ and I like that you used GR07 as a comparison. I own Gr07 MK II (and others), and while I agree that the Vsonic and all iems are "not quite there" for certain things (bass, soundstage, etc.) they do other things way better than overs (detail and accuracy). I will take a quick dynamic or dual ba iem over full size headphone any day of the week.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Sat, 12 January 2013, 04:48:03
How do you guys feel about spending $$$ on high-end IEMs?

Just curious, because I had initially thought that I wanted to drop $100-$200 on some nice IEMs, but I've been using $25 Sony earbuds that have plenty good sound quality and a comfortable fit. Not as good as my dt770s, but miles ahead of SkullCandy/iPhone quality.

Idk if I can justify expensive buds/IEMs like I could a full sized set

It really depends on how much you crave for better quality music, it probably won't be day and night difference on the first listen despite what you read from the head-fi reviews.
I would really suggest you go with a slow upgrade route, the GR-07 is a good benchmark to start with, if not the shure 215 can do the trick for a decent 1st "higher" quality IEM.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: wetto on Fri, 18 January 2013, 12:03:18
Got my hands on one of these Cooler Master Sirus 5.1 for review:

(http://i45.tinypic.com/28wm69h.jpg)

Damn, how can they sound so worse than some $35 headphones?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Internauta on Sat, 19 January 2013, 20:46:37
Hey guys, my friend is looking into TDK's STi710 and I'm not sure if geekhack would recommend them or not! Not too sure on TDK quality, never tried or researched much! He would be satisfied with any headphones, not the BEST performence/money. He bought beats and I made him return them ;).

http://www.tdkperformance.com/en-us/Headphones/High-Fidelity-Headphones/STi710/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: verbhal on Sat, 19 January 2013, 23:46:23
Some amazing headphones in here.  Currently I have been using my Sennheiser HD360s.  I also have a pair of HD650s and some more gaming related ones Astro A40s and the most ridiculous headset ever.  Psyko Carbons.  So ridiculous kind of like wearing a helmet.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lastpilot on Tue, 22 January 2013, 18:51:47
Currently: AiAiAi TMA-1 Studio's

Audio Technica ATH-A700 Art Edition
WESC Alp Horn
Pioneer HDJ-1000

Really loving the TMA-1s. Had them for about 5 months, still convinced they will be my last full-size headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pby on Wed, 23 January 2013, 12:56:07
Currently:
AKG K701
AKG K271
Unique Melody Aero

I just run them through an RME UCX then into an o2 amp to lower the output impedance.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: link_tree on Wed, 23 January 2013, 14:39:26
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AKDL1-Dedicated-Link-Cable/dp/B000I1X6PM/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Oh the holy cables...
Wait, what? is this for real? Why the high price?
forget about the cable's price check out the lowest rating comments on it... people are insane!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Wed, 23 January 2013, 15:41:52
Read the comments.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kraise on Wed, 23 January 2013, 23:32:10
Currently:
Grado SR325 w/ G-Cush earpads (the stock pads ended up hurting my ears after 1+ hrs)
Audio-Technica ATH-M50 50th Anniversary Edition
Westone 4R (IEMs for on the go)

I run my headphones through my HiFiMAN EF2A with GE JAN 5654W tubes. Just my little introduction to the tube amp world.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ChaoticKinesis on Sun, 27 January 2013, 18:31:58
If you're using a USB DAC, you definitely need one of these cables to get the highest fidelity: http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=AQMUSBDIA&variation=5.

I wonder if they would reduce latency for our keyboards.  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Turkishrambo on Mon, 28 January 2013, 16:08:56
 I use HD 25-II (or hd 25 originals)for my portable music needs. I dont really use headphones at the computer.

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/524476_10150891037698304_1235050077_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Fri, 01 February 2013, 23:34:29
Has anyone here ever used a Logitech G930 headset? If so, how was it? Any disconnect issues?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheGreatAmphibianPling on Sat, 02 February 2013, 19:43:36
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AKDL1-Dedicated-Link-Cable/dp/B000I1X6PM/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Oh the holy cables...
Wait, what? is this for real? Why the high price?

To take advantage of human gullibility/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheGreatAmphibianPling on Sat, 02 February 2013, 21:31:01
How do you guys feel about spending $$$ on high-end IEMs?

Just curious, because I had initially thought that I wanted to drop $100-$200 on some nice IEMs, but I've been using $25 Sony earbuds that have plenty good sound quality and a comfortable fit. Not as good as my dt770s, but miles ahead of SkullCandy/iPhone quality.

Idk if I can justify expensive buds/IEMs like I could a full sized set

It depends on how often you use your IEMs. Do you take them outside when you walk? Commute? If you use them for at least 30 minutes a day, I think that would justify spending the money on some more expensive IEMs. I think if you purchase the Vsonic GR07, you will find that it is close to the DT770's performance. It's not quite there since it's an IEM, but it does have very good sound quality. For reference, I used to own the dt770/250 and I still currently use the gr07 when I go out or commute.

IEM performance sometimes isn't very closely related to price. An awful lot of people rate the cheap Philips SHE3880 very highly:

http://kingoftweaks.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/philips-she3580-audiophile-sound-for-599.html

- I rate them as equal but different to the Etymotics I have that cost ten times as much. They're rather more comfortable too.

Headphonewise, I like the Sennheiser HD25-ii:

(http://www.sennheiser.co.uk/sennheiser/products.nsf/resources/20BEE8F4D0543C6CC1257432007FDD4A/$File/HD_25-1_II_ProductImage.jpg)

They are closed, on-ear phones.  I like then because

- The sound is neutral and revealing

- The drivers are far fast responding - a lot of even high end headphones can't respond quickly and leave the edges of fast transient sounds blurry instead of sharp, robbing them of attack

(A lot of people describe them as having more of a Grado than Senheisser personality because of the two above traits.)

- Excellent isolation

- Small enough to use while traveling, big enough to wear all day

- Notoriously tough, and all parts available as user replaceable spares

- The adjustable split band design stays on your head no matter what - you can jog, etc, with these on.

They were originally designed for TV and radio news teams, spread to pro dj's, and then the consumer market.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flacman on Sun, 03 February 2013, 04:45:21
I have:

Beyerdynamic Tesla T1, 
http://ocau.com/pix/u2hib (http://ocau.com/pix/u2hib)

Amplified by the Woo Audio WA2
http://ocau.com/pix/4y378 (http://ocau.com/pix/4y378)

fed by Audio-gd NFB-12.1 via SPDIF.
http://ocau.com/pix/er3u3 (http://ocau.com/pix/er3u3)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rolla on Tue, 05 February 2013, 03:08:51
Has anyone here ever used a Logitech G930 headset? If so, how was it? Any disconnect issues?

I have a set of G930s, i really like them. The sound was a bit tinny, but once you install the software for it you can easily change the bass etc.

As fotr the connectivity, i had a problem in my old house where if i went anywhere in the house where my boiler was inbetween myself and the reciever,it would cut out. Now im in my new flat i can go anywhere and still it wont cut out.

I have no experiance with any other wireless headsets but for the price theyre pretty nice IMHO.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Wed, 06 February 2013, 13:48:27
I got a pair of G930s as well, decent for Gaming, really nice touch obviously is the wireless factor
Range-wise I was able to go a full floor away from my computer and still get the signal fine.

for music/movies though, i found them a bit lacking in clarity, yeah the bass was booming but very muddled and not clear.
This is playing Blurays btw.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Wed, 06 February 2013, 15:12:57
Sounds good. I'm not really looking for anything amazing sound-wise, just a good, comfy headset for gaming. Will probably be looking to upgrade to a pair of G930s at some point then. Thanks for the feedback guys!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 06 February 2013, 15:29:10
How do you guys feel about spending $$$ on high-end IEMs?

Just curious, because I had initially thought that I wanted to drop $100-$200 on some nice IEMs, but I've been using $25 Sony earbuds that have plenty good sound quality and a comfortable fit. Not as good as my dt770s, but miles ahead of SkullCandy/iPhone quality.

Idk if I can justify expensive buds/IEMs like I could a full sized set

I'd buy high-end IEMs all day over full size.  Hell, considering what sets I've gone through, what I have now, what's out there and the pricing for such, 100-200 seems reasonable/low for good IEMs.

I mentioned it before, but right now I'm rocking customs, JHAudio JH5s ("cheapo entry level" I know) and it's more than worth the price of entry.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Thu, 07 February 2013, 12:54:40
Sounds good. I'm not really looking for anything amazing sound-wise, just a good, comfy headset for gaming. Will probably be looking to upgrade to a pair of G930s at some point then. Thanks for the feedback guys!
oh yeah one negative about the G930 for me is the ear cups are closes, so your ears will get sweaty after wearing them for a long time
Like I wear mine for Raiding in WoW, and after 3 hours of raiding its all sweaty lol.

Also if you wear glasses it may dig the glasses into your head since the headset clamps on pretty tight.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Thu, 07 February 2013, 23:35:25
are you the same projectD on head-fi ?????? Just wondering.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keymaster on Thu, 07 February 2013, 23:57:03
Sounds good. I'm not really looking for anything amazing sound-wise, just a good, comfy headset for gaming. Will probably be looking to upgrade to a pair of G930s at some point then. Thanks for the feedback guys!

ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Fri, 08 February 2013, 00:48:14
Sounds good. I'm not really looking for anything amazing sound-wise, just a good, comfy headset for gaming. Will probably be looking to upgrade to a pair of G930s at some point then. Thanks for the feedback guys!

ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset

Yes, I am aware of this. You of all people should know this about me lol. Like I said though, I really don't care about the sound quality as long as it isn't god awful. I just want a nice, comfortable wireless gaming headset since all I'd mostly be using it for is gaming and Skype/Ventrilo. Already ordered a pair of G930s so they should be coming in soon :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Fri, 08 February 2013, 01:46:44
are you the same projectD on head-fi ?????? Just wondering.
yar but i don't really post on Head-fi, only check the classified lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Fri, 08 February 2013, 05:17:52
I mixed you up with project86 ! my bad hahahha
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Fri, 08 February 2013, 05:25:07
Sounds good. I'm not really looking for anything amazing sound-wise, just a good, comfy headset for gaming. Will probably be looking to upgrade to a pair of G930s at some point then. Thanks for the feedback guys!

ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset

Looking at the statement
ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset ( HD650,HD800,LC2,thunderpants,Beyers) Hmmm are you sure? :x

the M50s are good and cool for someone who wants to try out mid tier headphones. However, it isn't the most comfortable headphone to wear for long hours of gaming.
You may wanna take a look at the velour pads mod for the m50.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/414574/velour-felt-pads-for-ath-m50/135

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 08 February 2013, 08:58:05
Sounds good. I'm not really looking for anything amazing sound-wise, just a good, comfy headset for gaming. Will probably be looking to upgrade to a pair of G930s at some point then. Thanks for the feedback guys!

ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset

Looking at the statement
ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset ( HD650,HD800,LC2,thunderpants,Beyers) Hmmm are you sure? :x

the M50s are good and cool for someone who wants to try out mid tier headphones. However, it isn't the most comfortable headphone to wear for long hours of gaming.
You may wanna take a look at the velour pads mod for the m50.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/414574/velour-felt-pads-for-ath-m50/135



Eh, these aren't exactly headsets IIRC, but I think there're some of these in combos w/ mic, e.g. DT770 or HD 25-II.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keymaster on Fri, 08 February 2013, 09:30:51
Sounds good. I'm not really looking for anything amazing sound-wise, just a good, comfy headset for gaming. Will probably be looking to upgrade to a pair of G930s at some point then. Thanks for the feedback guys!

ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset

Yes, I am aware of this. You of all people should know this about me lol. Like I said though, I really don't care about the sound quality as long as it isn't god awful. I just want a nice, comfortable wireless gaming headset since all I'd mostly be using it for is gaming and Skype/Ventrilo. Already ordered a pair of G930s so they should be coming in soon :)

My brother has that headset and I'll say this: for the your intended use, those will be more than enough. From my experience, they are rather soft on the ears.


Sounds good. I'm not really looking for anything amazing sound-wise, just a good, comfy headset for gaming. Will probably be looking to upgrade to a pair of G930s at some point then. Thanks for the feedback guys!

ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset

Looking at the statement
ATH-M50 + a standalone microphone > any headset ( HD650,HD800,LC2,thunderpants,Beyers) Hmmm are you sure? :x

the M50s are good and cool for someone who wants to try out mid tier headphones. However, it isn't the most comfortable headphone to wear for long hours of gaming.
You may wanna take a look at the velour pads mod for the m50.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/414574/velour-felt-pads-for-ath-m50/135

Thank you for this link. I may do this for my ATH-M50.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LifeIsGooD2 on Fri, 08 February 2013, 19:45:12
looking for a 200-300$ headphones to upgrade my ad700s for my birthday ... any suggestions ?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Turkishrambo on Fri, 08 February 2013, 20:12:48
ive heard HD 598's are really good

Im not much of an audiophile so im sure someone can point out something better :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Fri, 08 February 2013, 20:15:00
I have the 558s which I "converted" to the 598 by removing the foam pad.  Supposedly that is the only difference, though some have claimed otherwise.  I am happy with them for what I paid.  They are very comfortable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LifeIsGooD2 on Fri, 08 February 2013, 20:22:21
also they are going to be used mostly with my HT omega striker sound card if that matters at all

Ive heard good things about the KD702 ...any opnions ?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 08 February 2013, 20:54:22
looking for a 200-300$ headphones to upgrade my ad700s for my birthday ... any suggestions ?

Do you have a amp? If so, DT880 600 ohms imo. You will probably like them coming from the ad700, the dt880 are fairly neutral and goes well with pretty much every genre except for super-bassy stuff. You can also go for the dt990 if you want some head rattling bass, but also more treble. The HD600 is a possibility if you can get it for $300 or under.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LifeIsGooD2 on Fri, 08 February 2013, 20:59:01
looking for a 200-300$ headphones to upgrade my ad700s for my birthday ... any suggestions ?

Do you have a amp? If so, DT880 600 ohms imo. You will probably like them coming from the ad700, the dt880 are fairly neutral and goes well with pretty much every genre except for super-bassy stuff. You can also go for the dt990 if you want some head rattling bass, but also more treble. The HD600 is a possibility if you can get it for $300 or under.


was planning to use them mostly with my computer HT omega striker sound card

is that bad ?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Fri, 08 February 2013, 21:05:38
was planning to use them mostly with my computer HT omega striker sound card

is that bad ?

It isn't necessarily bad, it might change what people recommended though

What do you normally use your headphones for? (music genre, movies, gaming etc.)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 08 February 2013, 21:07:52
was planning to use them mostly with my computer HT omega striker sound card

is that bad ?

You would definitely need a desktop amp to get the most out of the 600ohm beyers. The Schiit Magni (http://schiit.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=0&products_id=13) would be a very nice budget headphone amp to consider. The HD 598 would be a decent option since you dont have an amp, they're going for $204 right now on Amazon.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dirge on Sat, 09 February 2013, 03:28:13
just won an auction for a pair of these, from the 1960's  :eek:
(http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/319/bk02wc5.jpg)
(http://img474.imageshack.us/img474/2793/bk04ou6.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LifeIsGooD2 on Sat, 09 February 2013, 07:21:47
was planning to use them mostly with my computer HT omega striker sound card

is that bad ?

It isn't necessarily bad, it might change what people recommended though

What do you normally use your headphones for? (music genre, movies, gaming etc.)

a little bit of everything but mostly gaming and music on my computer
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Sat, 09 February 2013, 12:40:28
Once you start getting up into the cans that are in the $250-300+ range they will mostly all benefit in a positive way with an amp. I think the first thing I would recommend is maybe setting some of your budget aside for something like thegunner said above. Once you don't have to worry so much about properly driving the cans it opens up so many more options, or at least makes what options are available that much better.

I would have to agree with what everybody else was saying...Senn hd598 or 600/Beyer DT880 or 990. The Beyers also come in a 32ohm version which are easier to drive but also benefit from amping as well, however the sound signature is slightly different between the 32 and 600ohm versions.

I wish Denon still made the D2000 because those would definitely be on my short list as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Alessandro on Sat, 09 February 2013, 16:12:39
The 598s are generally well driven by almost anything. A lot of people have benefited from a valve amp too though, but that depends if you don't really like the stock sound signature I guess.

Those look nice Dirge!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LifeIsGooD2 on Sat, 09 February 2013, 17:35:42
ok how would an amp work exactly ?

hook the amp to the PC then the headphones to the amp ?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Sat, 09 February 2013, 18:26:45
ok how would an amp work exactly ?

hook the amp to the PC then the headphones to the amp ?

Basically yes. Analog in, analog out, signal gets amplified inside

If you want a cheaper amp, you could build your own O2 amp for around $40. I think its also better than the magni.
Details on parts and stuff here: http://nwavguy.blogspot.com/2011/08/o2-details.html
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Sun, 10 February 2013, 00:35:03
you can also check if you have a soundcard that has an amp built in
Ones i know off the top of my head are the Asus Xonar ST/STX series.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pby on Sun, 10 February 2013, 06:52:29
you can also check if you have a soundcard that has an amp built in
Ones i know off the top of my head are the Asus Xonar ST/STX series.
Even onboard soundcards will have a headphone amp built in and will drive most headphones loud enough to cause hearing damage. External amps are not only used for driving high impedance headphones but to give better damping factor which will minimise transducer distortion when using low impedance loads like in ears or <32 ohm headphones.
The Asus STX is a great soundcard for most headphones but it could still benefit from using an external amp to drive low impedance headphones because of its relatively high output impedance (10ohm).

@Lifeisgood2 definitely consider the o2 amp. You won't find a better performing amp under $300
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Sun, 10 February 2013, 12:34:58
@pby
Not neccesarily true, Emotiva's Mini-X A100 is a great speaker amp for about $200 and the Schiit Magni and Modi are very competitive with the Objective combo, and sometimes even better with certain headphones than the O2/ODAC.

As for recommendations for headphones, consider something from the AKG line, and the Mad Dog T50RP mod by Mr. Speakers. Planar magnetic goodness FTW!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Sun, 10 February 2013, 12:40:42
Anyone else have V-Moda Crossfade LPs? I got mine a few years ago, really like them. Thinking about upgrading to AKG K702s or something similar when these die, but I'm in no hurry for that to happen.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Strelok on Sun, 10 February 2013, 12:43:33
I have ATH-M50's.
Best sound for you bukc imho, since they don't need any sort of peripherals. They also have a lifetime warranty, which AudioTechnica has been quick and helpful about.
(http://i.imgur.com/diO958M.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LifeIsGooD2 on Sun, 10 February 2013, 13:34:02

so does anyone else have the HT Omega striker sound card and use it with nice headphones ?

Im looking for quality over loudness if it matters
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Tue, 12 February 2013, 01:48:46
audio technica has lifetime warranty for only specific products, not all product range which i believe does not include the M50s.

To be really fair, I have the M50 too but I just feel like everyone here is seriously over-praising it too much. The M50s has flaws too when you are listening to more vocal / jazz music, the mids are really recessed.
(http://i.imgur.com/b6YGUBN.jpg)
some very old set up.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Tue, 12 February 2013, 09:09:51
not to mention for me anyway, the M50's hurt after wearing them for a while.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 12 February 2013, 10:08:44
The m50s clamp kinda hard unless you stretch out the headband. Even then, for people with glasses, it will still be a bit uncomfortable for a while. Velour pads are the most comfortable imo.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: IPT on Tue, 12 February 2013, 13:52:42
The m50s clamp kinda hard unless you stretch out the headband. Even then, for people with glasses, it will still be a bit uncomfortable for a while. Velour pads are the most comfortable imo.
Bingo (as someone who wears glasses at night/in the house instead of contacts)
the most comfortable headphones i've worn are still the AD700/900 that style.
light, comfortable, good sound stage.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: laffindude on Tue, 12 February 2013, 19:14:30
To be really fair, I have the M50 too but I just feel like everyone here is seriously over-praising it too much. The M50s has flaws too when you are listening to more vocal / jazz music, the mids are really recessed.
They were good phones when they were going for 8-90 bucks. Ierno @150, I rather spend a bit more and get a DT770/DT990 Pro.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Tue, 12 February 2013, 19:18:39
My M50s sucked when I first got them, I couldn't wear them for more than 5 minutes. I'll probably try to get rid of them soon though cause I rarely use them
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Tue, 12 February 2013, 20:24:31
Same here.  Stretching the headband is the key with the M50s, but they do get hot after a while.  I like how they can fold up and how they do a pretty good job of isolating noise.  I also like the coiled cord and the very nice 1/8-1/4" adapter.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Tue, 12 February 2013, 20:33:40
I hated the coiled cord. It made them super impracticable for portable use. I think it only took me like 2 days with them out in public before I chopped it off and just made it detachable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 13 February 2013, 21:16:35
Finally got my Little Dot MK IV SE today ^^

[attach=1]

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Wed, 13 February 2013, 23:28:19
Finally got my Little Dot MK IV SE today ^^

(Attachment Link)

SE come with the mullard 8100's right? Those are fantastic tubes
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: evolyn on Thu, 14 February 2013, 01:57:56
Just to followup - I posted a few weeks back about looking for a comfortable headphones. 

I had previous owned DT 770 Pro 80s, which were comfortable but headclamps.  (Stretching didn't seem to help much.)

So then I ordered a pair of AKG K272 HD (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0028N78KC/)s.  They had glorious comfort reviews, but I thought they pulled down on the top of my head harder than if they were just sitting on there due to the elastic tention on the auto-adjusting headband.  Such a weird thing.

Anyway, I returned those a few days later (to Amazon) and ordered Sennheiser HD 598 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042A8CW2/)s. 

(Attachment Link)

OMG... they didn't look like they'd be more comfortable than the AKGs, but man, they are wonderful.  I guess I have a sensitive head or something, because I pretty much think everything is uncomfortable, but these are wonderful.  I do sometimes wear a hat if I'll have them on all day for both the dreaded hair impression and also because it's a bit more comfortable.

Oh, they sound great too. I use them with a Fiio E10.  (But, comfort is 9/10 importance to me, sound is much less.)

That said, it's hard to beat a Bose AE2 headphones for their SUPER light weight.  Problem there is that the ear cups are a fake kind of leather that can sometimes sweat.  Plus, they don't sound good (relatively).

Edit: I also just noticed after posting this than Amazon dropped the price $25 in the past few weeks. :-/  Great value though.

got the same sennheiser :) its very good :) !!!!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: flacman on Thu, 14 February 2013, 04:18:30
Just to followup - I posted a few weeks back about looking for a comfortable headphones. 

I had previous owned DT 770 Pro 80s, which were comfortable but headclamps.  (Stretching didn't seem to help much.)

So then I ordered a pair of AKG K272 HD (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0028N78KC/)s.  They had glorious comfort reviews, but I thought they pulled down on the top of my head harder than if they were just sitting on there due to the elastic tention on the auto-adjusting headband.  Such a weird thing.

Anyway, I returned those a few days later (to Amazon) and ordered Sennheiser HD 598 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042A8CW2/)s. 

(Attachment Link)

OMG... they didn't look like they'd be more comfortable than the AKGs, but man, they are wonderful.  I guess I have a sensitive head or something, because I pretty much think everything is uncomfortable, but these are wonderful.  I do sometimes wear a hat if I'll have them on all day for both the dreaded hair impression and also because it's a bit more comfortable.

Oh, they sound great too. I use them with a Fiio E10.  (But, comfort is 9/10 importance to me, sound is much less.)

That said, it's hard to beat a Bose AE2 headphones for their SUPER light weight.  Problem there is that the ear cups are a fake kind of leather that can sometimes sweat.  Plus, they don't sound good (relatively).

Edit: I also just noticed after posting this than Amazon dropped the price $25 in the past few weeks. :-/  Great value though.

got the same sennheiser :) its very good :) !!!!

Sennheiser HD 598 are definitely a nice sounding pair - and with funky looks as well.  Good for people who enjoy lush sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 14 February 2013, 11:55:25
Finally got my Little Dot MK IV SE today ^^

(Attachment Link)

SE come with the mullard 8100's right? Those are fantastic tubes

Yes it does, but I'm using the m8161 tubes with them right now. The 8100 is too warm for my tastes.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Fri, 15 February 2013, 00:29:13
Got my Audio-GD NFB-10 a few days ago!
[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: KangarooZombies on Fri, 15 February 2013, 00:52:24
 :eek: Those look good!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Fri, 15 February 2013, 03:11:17
Nice he-400s and grats on your audio gd nfb10!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Fri, 15 February 2013, 08:55:12
Thanks guys, my amp really sounds and looks great, definitely worth what it costs. Oh, btw, are you the same takaki on head-fi? =O
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Fri, 15 February 2013, 21:36:30
Got some new toys on the way. Will post when they arrive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Sun, 17 February 2013, 04:15:43
yeah but i hardly post **** at all on headfi
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kboardvintage on Sun, 17 February 2013, 16:56:27
Finally got my Little Dot MK IV SE today ^^

(Attachment Link)


That looks sexy
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Viz on Thu, 21 February 2013, 05:57:15
Hey, just a quick question: I've been looking into the hifiman he-4, and I was wondering if the m-stage matrix had enough power to run theese cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Thu, 21 February 2013, 18:29:34
Daddy got some brand new toys, happy birthday to ME! :-*
Shiit Lyr
[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]
Audeze LCD 2
[attachimg=3]
[attachimg=4]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ironman31 on Thu, 21 February 2013, 18:57:43
The lcd-2s sounded great but I ended up selling mine because they were just too uncomfortable to listen for a long time
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Thu, 21 February 2013, 20:21:50
Ends up I need a quarter to eighth in. adapter for the LCD's and all my Y splitters have that stupid guard on the male end, so I have to wait until next week to even try them out. This is complete bullsh!t.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Fri, 22 February 2013, 00:14:19
Ends up I need a quarter to eighth in. adapter for the LCD's and all my Y splitters have that stupid guard on the male end, so I have to wait until next week to even try them out. This is complete bullsh!t.

What do you need the 1/8" adapter for?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Fri, 22 February 2013, 00:41:32
Ends up I need a quarter to eighth in. adapter for the LCD's and all my Y splitters have that stupid guard on the male end, so I have to wait until next week to even try them out. This is complete bullsh!t.

What do you need the 1/8" adapter for?
In case I want to take it on the road with my O2 travel setup.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: remedyhalopc on Fri, 22 February 2013, 01:52:24
I have the 558s which I "converted" to the 598 by removing the foam pad.  Supposedly that is the only difference, though some have claimed otherwise.  I am happy with them for what I paid.  They are very comfortable.

this doesnt work if iirc. different drivers/positioning i think.

i love my 598s. i legit forget im wearing them sometimes and get up from my computer/record player and start to walk away before realizing what im doing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Kuroneko on Mon, 25 February 2013, 00:04:42
Love my 598s. Very comfy. A lot more comfy than the M50s I owned. My m50s have gone to ****..I replaced the pads already but they're still uncomfortable to wear.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: terran5992 on Mon, 25 February 2013, 06:10:03
Creative TaticRage 3D XD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kylepotts on Mon, 25 February 2013, 13:24:02
Don't have a picture but I have a Akg k550 and a fiio dac/amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: S2000Gan on Mon, 04 March 2013, 05:43:41
I love my Sony MDR-v600s Theyve lasted me 8 years now.
Thinking of getting some Astro A40s though because the MDR-v600s, while still working, are really worn out looking and dont have a mic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ducatisteve on Mon, 04 March 2013, 14:03:45
My main two headphones now are a pair of Sony MDR-7506's at home and HiFiMan RE-ZEROs at work.  Neither are particularly mind blowing, but both are more than good enough for my insensitive ears.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Wed, 06 March 2013, 14:58:19
Guise I need advice, I can't make up my mind.

I decided that I'm going to sell my DT990s because the highs are a little too forward for my taste, and while these have nice bass, they still can't compete with my subwoofer, there's just something about wall-shaking bass that headphones can't deliver (at least in my price range).

So I want to find some headphones for classical/jazz/vocal/mellow music (a good portion would be female vocals). I was looking at the 598/600/650 seem to fit pretty well what I'm looking for. I'm going to try to buy used to get any of them under $250, $150ish for the 598s. Any advice?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ping111 on Wed, 06 March 2013, 15:19:14
White Bose AE2's.  Not a huge audiophile, but I use them all the time, and they're lurvely.  I heard sounds in music I'd never heard before.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Wed, 06 March 2013, 17:24:59
Guise I need advice, I can't make up my mind.

I decided that I'm going to sell my DT990s because the highs are a little too forward for my taste, and while these have nice bass, they still can't compete with my subwoofer, there's just something about wall-shaking bass that headphones can't deliver (at least in my price range).

So I want to find some headphones for classical/jazz/vocal/mellow music (a good portion would be female vocals). I was looking at the 598/600/650 seem to fit pretty well what I'm looking for. I'm going to try to buy used to get any of them under $250, $150ish for the 598s. Any advice?

I really like female vocals on the 598's and classical on the 600's. Senns are pretty fantastic for the music you listen to. The 600's I've heard the most didn't have the stock cable on them though, and some people say they sound "veiled" out of the box.

The other phones I liked for classical and vocals are the AKG k701 or k702s. They have a huge soundstage and were clear and a bit more bright than the Senns. Just like with everything else there's people who don't like them because they say the treble is too forward or the soundstage seems artificial.

I think I would personally go with the Senns recabled and a good amp behind them and be happy with those genres.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dimamantra on Sun, 10 March 2013, 12:25:12
Got a pair of the Sony MDR-V6 headphones a few months ago. Very happy with them.
(http://i.imgur.com/DbD7aOi.png)

(http://i.imgur.com/RJxHztG.jpg)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Sun, 10 March 2013, 12:30:16
Nice. One of my dream headphones are the Sony MDR-R10 bass heavy version, but for the 5-6k premium they fetch I just can't do it. With that kind of money I think I'd buy the Stax SR-009 anyway.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dimamantra on Sun, 10 March 2013, 12:37:16
Nice. One of my dream headphones are the Sony MDR-R10 bass heavy version, but for the 5-6k premium they fetch I just can't do it. With that kind of money I think I'd buy the Stax SR-009 anyway.

Just looked up the Stax and all I can say is OMFG at the price tag. They better be something special.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Sun, 10 March 2013, 15:25:57

Just looked up the Stax and all I can say is OMFG at the price tag. They better be something special.

I've demoed the 009 a couple different times and they are simply put...amazing. It takes about 2 weeks to forget about them and go back to my LCD2s and be content.

I've already been infected by Stax but at that price point combined with a proper amp for them I just can't do it yet.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dimamantra on Sun, 10 March 2013, 16:30:29

Just looked up the Stax and all I can say is OMFG at the price tag. They better be something special.

I've demoed the 009 a couple different times and they are simply put...amazing. It takes about 2 weeks to forget about them and go back to my LCD2s and be content.

I've already been infected by Stax but at that price point combined with a proper amp for them I just can't do it yet.

I don't know too much about audio equipment - Are these open air headphone?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Sun, 10 March 2013, 17:07:43

I don't know too much about audio equipment - Are these open air headphone?

Yes, they are open air electrostatic headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sun, 10 March 2013, 21:10:29
Nice. One of my dream headphones are the Sony MDR-R10 bass heavy version
Yes yes yes. I had the privilege of listening to a pair of these a while back and they have spoiled my ears after only a few hours with them. A dream indeed.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Deviruki on Mon, 11 March 2013, 18:05:06
ATH-A500's here.
Love Audio Technica's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: llovro on Thu, 14 March 2013, 06:52:09
Has anyone here ever used a Logitech G930 headset? If so, how was it? Any disconnect issues?
I have it for like 2 years, and no dissconnect issues so far. Sorry for late response :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Thu, 14 March 2013, 07:39:25
I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but are there any full coverage (over the ear) units recommended for people who wear glasses?  I have probably six sets of headphones around the house, low- to mid-range, and haven't found a set yet that don't compress my ears against my glasses pretty painfully.  Any brands noted for really soft padding, or perhaps memory foam/gel padding that conforms well for sound quality?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 14 March 2013, 07:51:29
I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but are there any full coverage (over the ear) units recommended for people who wear glasses?  I have probably six sets of headphones around the house, low- to mid-range, and haven't found a set yet that don't compress my ears against my glasses pretty painfully.  Any brands noted for really soft padding, or perhaps memory foam/gel padding that conforms well for sound quality?

I wear glasses with thick frames, and I found Beyerdynamic's dt 770/880/990 + t70 to be the most comfortable while wearing my glasses. Im sure the k701/702/q701 would be fairly comfortable too, since the pads are very similiar. In general, velour pads are the way to go for people with glasses. I have the beyerdynamic clear gel pads and they weren't as comfortable as the velour on the dt series or the t70.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Thu, 14 March 2013, 08:01:00
I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but are there any full coverage (over the ear) units recommended for people who wear glasses?  I have probably six sets of headphones around the house, low- to mid-range, and haven't found a set yet that don't compress my ears against my glasses pretty painfully.  Any brands noted for really soft padding, or perhaps memory foam/gel padding that conforms well for sound quality?

I wear glasses with thick frames, and I found Beyerdynamic's dt 770/880/990 + t70 to be the most comfortable while wearing my glasses. Im sure the k701/702/q701 would be fairly comfortable too, since the pads are very similiar. In general, velour pads are the way to go for people with glasses. I have the beyerdynamic clear gel pads and they weren't as comfortable as the velour on the dt series or the t70.

Thanks for the recommendation, I'll see if I can give these a listen!  Do they require an external headphone amp, or can they be driven by an internal PC sound card?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 14 March 2013, 10:09:54
Unfortunately you'll want a headphone amp for all of those, even the 32ohm beyers. You might be able to get enough volume out of the 32ohm beyers or the AKGs, but the sound quality will most likely not be as good as they can be.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Thu, 14 March 2013, 10:12:12
I can also vouch for the DT880 and the Sennheiser HD-558/598 being fairly comfortable while wearing glasses.  Both have the soft velour pads.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: WarNutts on Thu, 14 March 2013, 13:52:19
gotta love siberias :).  Got a pair of astro a40s as a gift and they broke pretty quickly i would not recommend it to anyone!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Amarok on Fri, 15 March 2013, 01:45:18
I put velour ear pads on my M50s today. I like them so much better now.  :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Fri, 15 March 2013, 05:15:20
I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but are there any full coverage (over the ear) units recommended for people who wear glasses?  I have probably six sets of headphones around the house, low- to mid-range, and haven't found a set yet that don't compress my ears against my glasses pretty painfully.  Any brands noted for really soft padding, or perhaps memory foam/gel padding that conforms well for sound quality?
Denon AH-Dxxxx series. No doubt the most comfortable headphones I've ever worn. Ever. They are really the only pair I can wear with glasses and forget I have them on.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Fri, 15 March 2013, 08:57:14
I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but are there any full coverage (over the ear) units recommended for people who wear glasses?  I have probably six sets of headphones around the house, low- to mid-range, and haven't found a set yet that don't compress my ears against my glasses pretty painfully.  Any brands noted for really soft padding, or perhaps memory foam/gel padding that conforms well for sound quality?
Denon AH-Dxxxx series. No doubt the most comfortable headphones I've ever worn. Ever. They are really the only pair I can wear with glasses and forget I have them on.

Definitely one to add to the list to try!  Thanks for the tip!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The_Beast on Fri, 15 March 2013, 08:59:16
I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but are there any full coverage (over the ear) units recommended for people who wear glasses?  I have probably six sets of headphones around the house, low- to mid-range, and haven't found a set yet that don't compress my ears against my glasses pretty painfully.  Any brands noted for really soft padding, or perhaps memory foam/gel padding that conforms well for sound quality?
Denon AH-Dxxxx series. No doubt the most comfortable headphones I've ever worn. Ever. They are really the only pair I can wear with glasses and forget I have them on.

Definitely one to add to the list to try!  Thanks for the tip!

Audio Technica AD-700s work very well with glasses
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 15 March 2013, 09:35:27
I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but are there any full coverage (over the ear) units recommended for people who wear glasses?  I have probably six sets of headphones around the house, low- to mid-range, and haven't found a set yet that don't compress my ears against my glasses pretty painfully.  Any brands noted for really soft padding, or perhaps memory foam/gel padding that conforms well for sound quality?
Denon AH-Dxxxx series. No doubt the most comfortable headphones I've ever worn. Ever. They are really the only pair I can wear with glasses and forget I have them on.

Too bad the d2k and d5k are out of production. You won't really be able to try them out unless you actually buy it off of someone.
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Fri, 15 March 2013, 12:11:57
I miss my d2k...of all the cans I've had I think I regret selling those the most
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Grim Fandango on Sun, 17 March 2013, 15:03:15
Sennheiser HD 518. I use if with a soundcard and one of those Zalman clip on mics. Pretty happy with it . I bought it during a sale last Christmas for only 60 bucks. Amazing value.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GeorgeStorm on Fri, 05 April 2013, 16:09:51
Still got my DT770 250ohms which I use on a daily basis connected to a Fiio E7/E9 combo.
Also have a pair of AKG Q701 Green Quincy Jones, however I find the headband too uncomfortable for me to actually use them for more than a couple of minutes :( (I tend to find all headbands painful after a while but the AKGs are far worse than my Beyers)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rare on Sat, 06 April 2013, 01:30:25
I've had these for over 2 years now. These are truly great headphones. Sound quality is great, and they're VERY comfortable. I've worn them for 14+ hours straight and I have had no pain on my ears once.

(http://en-de.sennheiser.com/images/669/all/square/3813/square_louped_hd_448_01_sq_music_portable_sennheiser.png)

They're Sennheiser HD 448's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Sun, 07 April 2013, 12:35:59
Could $100 or less get me a good quality amp? Any recommendations for amps in that price range?
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Sun, 07 April 2013, 13:54:54
Could $100 or less get me a good quality amp? Any recommendations for amps in that price range?

I could recommend the schiit Magni. Its the only one in that price range I've personally heard. It's $99 and pretty amazing for the money in my opinion
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Mon, 08 April 2013, 13:49:52
Could $100 or less get me a good quality amp? Any recommendations for amps in that price range?

If you like DIY or want something with a battery, the O2 amp can be built for about $45 + $25 for a case
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Mon, 08 April 2013, 15:19:08
Could $100 or less get me a good quality amp? Any recommendations for amps in that price range?

If you like DIY or want something with a battery, the O2 amp can be built for about $45 + $25 for a case

I haven't really done any DIY stuff, but that O2 sure does look interesting.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: csloan1218 on Tue, 09 April 2013, 12:13:22
I'm using a pair of turtle beach x12's, I found them to be really decent but after a few hours they start to hurt.

Don't know if its the headphones, or my freakishly big ears. </fry>
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rare on Tue, 09 April 2013, 12:37:08
I'm using a pair of turtle beach x12's, I found them to be really decent but after a few hours they start to hurt.

Don't know if its the headphones, or my freakishly big ears. </fry>


This seems to be the problem for a lot of people. When I used to play xbox and use my brothers turtle beaches my ears would hurt. But with my sennhesiers my ears go as if they were untouched.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Tue, 09 April 2013, 14:39:30
I've had these for over 2 years now. These are truly great headphones. Sound quality is great, and they're VERY comfortable. I've worn them for 14+ hours straight and I have had no pain on my ears once.

Show Image
(http://en-de.sennheiser.com/images/669/all/square/3813/square_louped_hd_448_01_sq_music_portable_sennheiser.png)


They're Sennheiser HD 448's.

I know, right? My only complaint was build quality. That's why I actually sold them.

Now I need to find some nice cables to use with HD202.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Tue, 09 April 2013, 15:20:27
I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but are there any full coverage (over the ear) units recommended for people who wear glasses?  I have probably six sets of headphones around the house, low- to mid-range, and haven't found a set yet that don't compress my ears against my glasses pretty painfully.  Any brands noted for really soft padding, or perhaps memory foam/gel padding that conforms well for sound quality?

I wear glasses with thick frames, and I found Beyerdynamic's dt 770/880/990 + t70 to be the most comfortable while wearing my glasses. Im sure the k701/702/q701 would be fairly comfortable too, since the pads are very similiar. In general, velour pads are the way to go for people with glasses. I have the beyerdynamic clear gel pads and they weren't as comfortable as the velour on the dt series or the t70.

Thanks for the recommendation, I'll see if I can give these a listen!  Do they require an external headphone amp, or can they be driven by an internal PC sound card?

Jeez, try it first. Then you'll know. Unless your onboard is a) old or b) really sucks or c) a Mac (which is the same as b, some might be shocked to learn) many contemporary onboards can drive phones perfectly well and with half decent quality - at least of a level of quality that makes <$100 toy Dacs at best a waste of money.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Tue, 09 April 2013, 19:17:15
I am inclined to agree (despite popular opinion of audiophile circlejerks) that 80% of the time a DAC for a computer setup is a waste of money. The returns you would see in sound improvement are miniscule, probably just above buying $900 audio cables. Most PCs already have a DAC built into the on board sound or sound card and do their jobs perfectly well. Invest your money in higher ended headphones and a better amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Tue, 09 April 2013, 20:35:07
If you are just watching movies, gaming, youtube, or mp3's then I would agree to skip the DAC...even though I do run a DAC on my computer setup. I bypass windows sound, use a sound card as just a digital transport and let the DAC handle the conversion, but then we get into bit rates and sample rates and it gets overly complicated.

So I would say just plug the headphones into the soundcard, if they sound good...great. If the volume is lacking then start looking into amping options. Keeping it simple is better a lot of the time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Tue, 09 April 2013, 20:53:28
All anyone really needs is a soundcard and a Sennheiser HD600.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Tue, 09 April 2013, 22:50:33
I'm using a pair of turtle beach x12's, I found them to be really decent but after a few hours they start to hurt.

Don't know if its the headphones, or my freakishly big ears. </fry>


This seems to be the problem for a lot of people. When I used to play xbox and use my brothers turtle beaches my ears would hurt. But with my sennhesiers my ears go as if they were untouched.

I have some X12s and though they don't sound very nice, they feel just fine to me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: csloan1218 on Tue, 09 April 2013, 22:52:20
Man, I'm glad I don't have a frame of reference. I think my x12's sound great.

You ppl are going to run me into bankruptcy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Wed, 10 April 2013, 00:07:08
Those are some strong statements.  While the internal PA can drive my headphones, doing so drives me nuts.

In the past, on-board sound chips were bare bones and were stuck where ever there was room on the motherboard.  HF noise gets coupled to the analog outputs.  You may not hear it in a low impedance load like a headphone, but it becomes more apparent when plugged into an amplifier.  My old Dell workstation at work is absolutely horrible and most laptops I have used are even worse.  I can hear the mouse move on all of my laptops!

I have met far more horrible built-in sound solutions than not.  Sound cards tend to be a lot better, but they still will couple noise simply because the EMI environment of a PC case is that bad.  If I crank-up my desktop speakers to 1/2 or more (plugged into my sound card) I can "hear" one of my 3 HDs popping and large updates to the UI make squeaking noises.

In an office with CPU fans and whatnot and reasonable speaker volume levels, it isn't really a problem.  For headphones, I prefer the black background of a decent DAC.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Wed, 10 April 2013, 08:11:03
Those are some strong statements.  While the internal PA can drive my headphones, doing so drives me nuts.

In the past, on-board sound chips were bare bones and were stuck where ever there was room on the motherboard.  HF noise gets coupled to the analog outputs.  You may not hear it in a low impedance load like a headphone, but it becomes more apparent when plugged into an amplifier.  My old Dell workstation at work is absolutely horrible and most laptops I have used are even worse.  I can hear the mouse move on all of my laptops!

I have met far more horrible built-in sound solutions than not.  Sound cards tend to be a lot better, but they still will couple noise simply because the EMI environment of a PC case is that bad.  If I crank-up my desktop speakers to 1/2 or more (plugged into my sound card) I can "hear" one of my 3 HDs popping and large updates to the UI make squeaking noises.

In an office with CPU fans and whatnot and reasonable speaker volume levels, it isn't really a problem.  For headphones, I prefer the black background of a decent DAC.

The real problem is that you don't know if a particular combo is good or not. Indeed, even some much-hyped add-ons (like the Essence STX) can suffer pretty badly from EM noise leakage in certain slot configurations.

At the same time though, it's pointless generalising 'all onboards suck, buy a DAC' because onboards have improved quite a lot as of late in general thanks to various Microsoft edicts for compatibility.

Some are bad. My 2010/2012 Mac Pro's, if I choose to use a headphone to listen to them thru the front panel socket, are unlistenable - there's just too much EM leakage. Same goes for recent Air's and Macbook Pro's to a lesser degree, but still enough to warrant a DAC. But the vast majority of Windows desktops and laptops (including a couple of MSI and Asus-boarded DIY's, and I'll qualify here that I don't keep laptops beyond about a year, nor desktops beyond 2 years - except in the case of the it's-still-2009-layout antique like the Mac Pro), I'm pretty happy to jam a headphone into and listen, unless I'm doing a bout of critical listening or monitoring.

Which is why I said listen first. His might suck, it might not.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pby on Wed, 10 April 2013, 10:25:43
The real problem is that you don't know if a particular combo is good or not. Indeed, even some much-hyped add-ons (like the Essence STX) can suffer pretty badly from EM noise leakage in certain slot configurations.

At the same time though, it's pointless generalising 'all onboards suck, buy a DAC' because onboards have improved quite a lot as of late in general thanks to various Microsoft edicts for compatibility.
A properly designed DAC and amp will work great with any setup. Typically if you do DAC+amps combo they'll be external which eliminates the EMI problems you mentioned.

The quality of onboard sound has little to do with microsoft and compatibility. You don't tend to find quality onboard audio because most manufacturers are more interested in packing more quantity of features than quality of. Asus is very capable in producing decent soundcards but it is pretty apparent they don't even bother trying when it comes to onboard audio. That is why don't see them quoting any of their onboard's SNR, frequency response, output impedance etc but go on for days about supporting 192kHz audio (does anybody actually listen to high sampling rate audio?).

I'm not going to say onboard audio sucks but they are inferior to any well engineered sound interface. If the listener doesn't care or appreciates the difference then onboard is probably good enough. Having said that, DAC/amp is rarely a bad investment, you can use it for your next computer/laptops and always get a great sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Wed, 10 April 2013, 10:36:12
Which is why I said listen first. His might suck, it might not.

That's good advice.  I carried the same SB Live/Audigy Platinum setups through many PCs for many years.  It's front panel is surprisingly quiet.  However, the PCI slot is going extinct and I had to ditch it on my Windoze rig thanks to a complete lack of driver support in 7.  My main rigs at home and at work run Linux, so I can still use it there so long as the PCI slot survives.

If you do a lot of headphone listening, that uncertainty is actually a reason to consider a DAC/amp combo (especially one with a USB input).  I didn't spend a ton on mine, but I can keep using it even as the PCs behind it change.  As you point out, there is no way to know how quiet the on-board audio will be.  With a DAC, you don't have to factor it in to your MB choice.

But yes, it's kind of a luxury item for the somewhat anal.  Back in the "Walkman" days, I used to carry a small screw driver around with it to tweak the tape head alignment.  The HF roll-off drove me nuts.  I can't really handle 128kbps MP3s or BlueTooth headphones, either (the A2DP SBC codec sounds awful).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Wed, 10 April 2013, 11:45:40
The real problem is that you don't know if a particular combo is good or not. Indeed, even some much-hyped add-ons (like the Essence STX) can suffer pretty badly from EM noise leakage in certain slot configurations.

At the same time though, it's pointless generalising 'all onboards suck, buy a DAC' because onboards have improved quite a lot as of late in general thanks to various Microsoft edicts for compatibility.
A properly designed DAC and amp will work great with any setup. Typically if you do DAC+amps combo they'll be external which eliminates the EMI problems you mentioned.

The quality of onboard sound has little to do with microsoft and compatibility.

I should have mentioned Intel in there as well - but they have minimums for audio quality, which have been ratcheted up over the years.

Quote
You don't tend to find quality onboard audio because most manufacturers are more interested in packing more quantity of features than quality of. Asus is very capable in producing decent soundcards but it is pretty apparent they don't even bother trying when it comes to onboard audio. That is why don't see them quoting any of their onboard's SNR, frequency response, output impedance etc but go on for days about supporting 192kHz audio (does anybody actually listen to high sampling rate audio?).

I'm not going to say onboard audio sucks but they are inferior to any well engineered sound interface. If the listener doesn't care or appreciates the difference then onboard is probably good enough. Having said that, DAC/amp is rarely a bad investment, you can use it for your next computer/laptops and always get a great sound.

Sure, for a couple of hundred plus. As I said if you happen to get a decent onboard, it may not be a major boost over a $100-class DAC, if at all. I personally prefer to skip the toys for the Head-Fi crowd and just get straight to the actual high-end and pro audio when going discrete. But what I said about onboard still stands nevertheless in my experience.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Wed, 10 April 2013, 18:04:22
Those are some strong statements.  While the internal PA can drive my headphones, doing so drives me nuts.

In the past, on-board sound chips were bare bones and were stuck where ever there was room on the motherboard.  HF noise gets coupled to the analog outputs.  You may not hear it in a low impedance load like a headphone, but it becomes more apparent when plugged into an amplifier.  My old Dell workstation at work is absolutely horrible and most laptops I have used are even worse.  I can hear the mouse move on all of my laptops!

I have met far more horrible built-in sound solutions than not.  Sound cards tend to be a lot better, but they still will couple noise simply because the EMI environment of a PC case is that bad.  If I crank-up my desktop speakers to 1/2 or more (plugged into my sound card) I can "hear" one of my 3 HDs popping and large updates to the UI make squeaking noises.

In an office with CPU fans and whatnot and reasonable speaker volume levels, it isn't really a problem.  For headphones, I prefer the black background of a decent DAC.

I had that on many soundcards.  Two that I couldn't hear any interference on were Sound Blaster Live! Value, and Asus Xonar Essence STX.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rare on Wed, 10 April 2013, 19:03:55
I've had these for over 2 years now. These are truly great headphones. Sound quality is great, and they're VERY comfortable. I've worn them for 14+ hours straight and I have had no pain on my ears once.

Show Image
(http://en-de.sennheiser.com/images/669/all/square/3813/square_louped_hd_448_01_sq_music_portable_sennheiser.png)


They're Sennheiser HD 448's.

I know, right? My only complaint was build quality. That's why I actually sold them.

Now I need to find some nice cables to use with HD202.

Yeah, the build isn't exactly the best, but otherwise they're great. How are the HD202's?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TranscendingLogic on Wed, 10 April 2013, 19:39:06
What tracks do you guys listen to when evaluating a new pair of headphones or other setup? And what specifically do you listen for?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rare on Wed, 10 April 2013, 19:42:49
I listen to a lot of hip hop. Mostly new stuff because it's kinda bass heavy. I listen for tones, an overall clear sound, and bass I can feel. Though with monitors that may not be the easiest to get, it's possible. What headphones did you get/plan on getting?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pby on Wed, 10 April 2013, 19:45:53
The real problem is that you don't know if a particular combo is good or not. Indeed, even some much-hyped add-ons (like the Essence STX) can suffer pretty badly from EM noise leakage in certain slot configurations.

At the same time though, it's pointless generalising 'all onboards suck, buy a DAC' because onboards have improved quite a lot as of late in general thanks to various Microsoft edicts for compatibility.
A properly designed DAC and amp will work great with any setup. Typically if you do DAC+amps combo they'll be external which eliminates the EMI problems you mentioned.

The quality of onboard sound has little to do with microsoft and compatibility.

I should have mentioned Intel in there as well - but they have minimums for audio quality, which have been ratcheted up over the years.

Quote
You don't tend to find quality onboard audio because most manufacturers are more interested in packing more quantity of features than quality of. Asus is very capable in producing decent soundcards but it is pretty apparent they don't even bother trying when it comes to onboard audio. That is why don't see them quoting any of their onboard's SNR, frequency response, output impedance etc but go on for days about supporting 192kHz audio (does anybody actually listen to high sampling rate audio?).

I'm not going to say onboard audio sucks but they are inferior to any well engineered sound interface. If the listener doesn't care or appreciates the difference then onboard is probably good enough. Having said that, DAC/amp is rarely a bad investment, you can use it for your next computer/laptops and always get a great sound.

Sure, for a couple of hundred plus. As I said if you happen to get a decent onboard, it may not be a major boost over a $100-class DAC, if at all. I personally prefer to skip the toys for the Head-Fi crowd and just get straight to the actual high-end and pro audio when going discrete. But what I said about onboard still stands nevertheless in my experience.
If you're referring to the Intel HDA specs then the minimum specs is really for the interfacing of the devices rather than the audio quality. Intel has some guidelines on circuit designs so you know you won't get clicks and pops but don't expect them to measure well.

High end hifi stuff is one thing but pro-audio is another. Pro audio equipment usually require balance audio and as a result they typically have a lower SNR. Also they are usually designed to drive studio headphones which are 250~600ohms and their output impedance is quite high (typically around 30-50ohms) and way too high to drive normal headphones properly.

Yes if you're looking for a decent DAC/amp then it will cost you a little. There are a few sub $100 DACs worth looking at but it is pretty much a mine field as there are quite alot of poorly engineered crap out there (NuForce comes to mind).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Wed, 10 April 2013, 20:09:49
I listen to a lot of hip hop. Mostly new stuff because it's kinda bass heavy. I listen for tones, an overall clear sound, and bass I can feel. Though with monitors that may not be the easiest to get, it's possible. What headphones did you get/plan on getting?
havent had the chance to try them but i've heard that sennheiser hd25-II is where its at for hip hop. someday i'll snag a pair...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Wed, 10 April 2013, 20:31:49
These are great too:
http://www.amazon.com/JVC-Head-band-Portable-Headphones-HA-S500-B/dp/B008FWB9TQ/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1365643528&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=jvc+ha-s500

I own a pair and they have some decent bass for their price while still keeping a good sound signature. I've never heard the hd25's but people say that these are almost as good for a 1/4 of the price. You can also use velour pads from hd25s and it brings out the mids some more.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TranscendingLogic on Wed, 10 April 2013, 21:05:23
I listen to a lot of hip hop. Mostly new stuff because it's kinda bass heavy. I listen for tones, an overall clear sound, and bass I can feel. Though with monitors that may not be the easiest to get, it's possible. What headphones did you get/plan on getting?

I don't have anything in mind yet. I just wanted to make sure I find some affordable options with a good clean, accurate sound. I listen to a lot of acoustic instrumental guitar and I can't stand artificially pumped up bass or the muddy sound that some headphones produce. I'm currently listening with Shure SE-215 earbuds.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 10 April 2013, 21:28:55
What tracks do you guys listen to when evaluating a new pair of headphones or other setup? And what specifically do you listen for?

I usually just listen to the stuff that I like listening to the most. If you're familiar with a song, then you'll be able to hear the difference between headphones, amps, and dacs. Orchestral music usually works well.
Title: Re: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jocelyn on Wed, 10 April 2013, 21:34:24
What tracks do you guys listen to when evaluating a new pair of headphones or other setup? And what specifically do you listen for?

I usually just listen to the stuff that I like listening to the most. If you're familiar with a song, then you'll be able to hear the difference between headphones, amps, and dacs. Orchestral music usually works well.

This, this, and this.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 10 April 2013, 22:40:16
How are the HD202's?

They're *sturdy*. Well, except the cable. I don't really care about sound quality when listening on the bus, so yeah... it's fine for that, maybe a bit too dark.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rare on Wed, 10 April 2013, 23:25:26
I listen to a lot of hip hop. Mostly new stuff because it's kinda bass heavy. I listen for tones, an overall clear sound, and bass I can feel. Though with monitors that may not be the easiest to get, it's possible. What headphones did you get/plan on getting?
havent had the chance to try them but i've heard that sennheiser hd25-II is where its at for hip hop. someday i'll snag a pair...

I'll look into those! I have my heart set on some ATH m50's though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: purple_haze on Fri, 12 April 2013, 20:23:13
i have me some sennheiser hd-555s and love them.  I just got a pair of klipsch reference one on ear headphones and they are decent for iphone use.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Fri, 12 April 2013, 20:34:14
I listen to a lot of hip hop. Mostly new stuff because it's kinda bass heavy. I listen for tones, an overall clear sound, and bass I can feel. Though with monitors that may not be the easiest to get, it's possible. What headphones did you get/plan on getting?
havent had the chance to try them but i've heard that sennheiser hd25-II is where its at for hip hop. someday i'll snag a pair...

I'll look into those! I have my heart set on some ATH m50's though.

ATH-m50 is crap compared to the HD600.  They're decent for closed-back headphones though, if you need them to be closed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 12 April 2013, 22:13:37
FWIW The DIY cost for the O2 is closer to $32, not $45. I put together an O2 amp for $32 including PCB from JDSLabs.com. I just plugged in NwAvGuy's BOM into Mouser and reassigned two part numbers that changed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Sat, 13 April 2013, 05:13:53
The real problem is that you don't know if a particular combo is good or not. Indeed, even some much-hyped add-ons (like the Essence STX) can suffer pretty badly from EM noise leakage in certain slot configurations.

At the same time though, it's pointless generalising 'all onboards suck, buy a DAC' because onboards have improved quite a lot as of late in general thanks to various Microsoft edicts for compatibility.
A properly designed DAC and amp will work great with any setup. Typically if you do DAC+amps combo they'll be external which eliminates the EMI problems you mentioned.

The quality of onboard sound has little to do with microsoft and compatibility.

I should have mentioned Intel in there as well - but they have minimums for audio quality, which have been ratcheted up over the years.

Quote
You don't tend to find quality onboard audio because most manufacturers are more interested in packing more quantity of features than quality of. Asus is very capable in producing decent soundcards but it is pretty apparent they don't even bother trying when it comes to onboard audio. That is why don't see them quoting any of their onboard's SNR, frequency response, output impedance etc but go on for days about supporting 192kHz audio (does anybody actually listen to high sampling rate audio?).

I'm not going to say onboard audio sucks but they are inferior to any well engineered sound interface. If the listener doesn't care or appreciates the difference then onboard is probably good enough. Having said that, DAC/amp is rarely a bad investment, you can use it for your next computer/laptops and always get a great sound.

Sure, for a couple of hundred plus. As I said if you happen to get a decent onboard, it may not be a major boost over a $100-class DAC, if at all. I personally prefer to skip the toys for the Head-Fi crowd and just get straight to the actual high-end and pro audio when going discrete. But what I said about onboard still stands nevertheless in my experience.
If you're referring to the Intel HDA specs then the minimum specs is really for the interfacing of the devices rather than the audio quality. Intel has some guidelines on circuit designs so you know you won't get clicks and pops but don't expect them to measure well.

High end hifi stuff is one thing but pro-audio is another. Pro audio equipment usually require balance audio and as a result they typically have a lower SNR. Also they are usually designed to drive studio headphones which are 250~600ohms and their output impedance is quite high (typically around 30-50ohms) and way too high to drive normal headphones properly.

This is kind of Head-Fi rote nonsense. Sure low-impedance phones work OK on a lot of studio gear. It's not all DT250-250's and HD600's out there IRL you know, jeez.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheProfosist on Sat, 13 April 2013, 05:40:54
Just stumbled accross a pair of TMA-1's and HAD to pick them up! Now I cant wait for the revision of the studio version thats going to be out really soon.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Permeability on Sat, 13 April 2013, 15:53:05
Can anyone explain to me why some headphones need an amplifier? Just starting to look at headphones and i'm lost  :confused:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 13 April 2013, 16:04:45
This is kind of Head-Fi rote nonsense. Sure low-impedance phones work OK on a lot of studio gear. It's not all DT250-250's and HD600's out there IRL you know, jeez.

We all know that every studio uses Beats by Dr. Dre™ ;)
Title: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Sat, 13 April 2013, 16:42:02
Can anyone explain to me why some headphones need an amplifier? Just starting to look at headphones and i'm lost  :confused:

Headphones come in different impedance. When you look at headphone specs the impedance will be measured in ohms. Impedance is the resistance to an electrical load

High impedance headphones need an amp to boost the voltage which will increase the volume, meaning high impedance headphones without enough voltage won't be loud enough.

Most low impedance headphones can be driven straight off a portable player, but there's a catch.

Some low impedance headphones need an amp to increase the electrical current to the headphone drivers to run them at optimal performance, so without an amp although they will be loud enough, they won't sound very good.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Sat, 13 April 2013, 20:25:34

This is kind of Head-Fi rote nonsense. Sure low-impedance phones work OK on a lot of studio gear. It's not all DT250-250's and HD600's out there IRL you know, jeez.

Lies.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mountain Dew on Sat, 13 April 2013, 22:12:22
So could you guys recommend some good Jack of all trades type of headphones? I literally listen to pretty much all genres of music. I was looking at the MDR-V6s. Money isn't really a big deal as I won't be getting these until I get a job, which hopefully will be within the next few months.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 13 April 2013, 22:28:30
So could you guys recommend some good Jack of all trades type of headphones? I literally listen to pretty much all genres of music. I was looking at the MDR-V6s. Money isn't really a big deal as I won't be getting these until I get a job, which hopefully will be within the next few months.

Do you want open or closed headphones? If money is no issue... grab yourself a stax sr-009! Realistically though, what would your budget be?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mountain Dew on Sat, 13 April 2013, 22:32:59
Probably equal to or less than 300 dollars. I'd prefer closed back however I don't really use headphones outside of my home so it doesn't really matter.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 14 April 2013, 08:40:20
Probably equal to or less than 300 dollars. I'd prefer closed back however I don't really use headphones outside of my home so it doesn't really matter.

For all-round headphones, consider these but you'll want a headphone amp for them. A DAC would help too, but the amp is more important.

Open: dt880 600ohm, hd600, q701/k701/k702
Closed: dt770 80ohm or 600 ohm (the 80ohm is the bassier version)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mountain Dew on Sun, 14 April 2013, 08:42:11
Thanks, if I were to get an amp, what would be a good one to get?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 14 April 2013, 11:31:45
Thanks, if I were to get an amp, what would be a good one to get?

For high impedance such as the 600ohm beyers or the hd600, a OTL tube amp would work the best. I would suggest getting a little dot MK III to start with, and get a pair of m8161 tubes to use them with. Or you could get the mk II as well, it's a little bit cheaper.

The Schiit magni($99) or O2 amp would be good choices too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pby on Sun, 14 April 2013, 13:32:15
The real problem is that you don't know if a particular combo is good or not. Indeed, even some much-hyped add-ons (like the Essence STX) can suffer pretty badly from EM noise leakage in certain slot configurations.

At the same time though, it's pointless generalising 'all onboards suck, buy a DAC' because onboards have improved quite a lot as of late in general thanks to various Microsoft edicts for compatibility.
A properly designed DAC and amp will work great with any setup. Typically if you do DAC+amps combo they'll be external which eliminates the EMI problems you mentioned.

The quality of onboard sound has little to do with microsoft and compatibility.

I should have mentioned Intel in there as well - but they have minimums for audio quality, which have been ratcheted up over the years.

Quote
You don't tend to find quality onboard audio because most manufacturers are more interested in packing more quantity of features than quality of. Asus is very capable in producing decent soundcards but it is pretty apparent they don't even bother trying when it comes to onboard audio. That is why don't see them quoting any of their onboard's SNR, frequency response, output impedance etc but go on for days about supporting 192kHz audio (does anybody actually listen to high sampling rate audio?).

I'm not going to say onboard audio sucks but they are inferior to any well engineered sound interface. If the listener doesn't care or appreciates the difference then onboard is probably good enough. Having said that, DAC/amp is rarely a bad investment, you can use it for your next computer/laptops and always get a great sound.

Sure, for a couple of hundred plus. As I said if you happen to get a decent onboard, it may not be a major boost over a $100-class DAC, if at all. I personally prefer to skip the toys for the Head-Fi crowd and just get straight to the actual high-end and pro audio when going discrete. But what I said about onboard still stands nevertheless in my experience.
If you're referring to the Intel HDA specs then the minimum specs is really for the interfacing of the devices rather than the audio quality. Intel has some guidelines on circuit designs so you know you won't get clicks and pops but don't expect them to measure well.

High end hifi stuff is one thing but pro-audio is another. Pro audio equipment usually require balance audio and as a result they typically have a lower SNR. Also they are usually designed to drive studio headphones which are 250~600ohms and their output impedance is quite high (typically around 30-50ohms) and way too high to drive normal headphones properly.

This is kind of Head-Fi rote nonsense. Sure low-impedance phones work OK on a lot of studio gear. It's not all DT250-250's and HD600's out there IRL you know, jeez.

I don't know if you're trolling or not but if you're using low impedance loads like in ears (8 ohms) and your output impedance is 50ohms then you're looking at a damping factor of 0.16. There is absolutely no chance you'll get the intended frequency response of the interface, if you're looking at regular headphones 32 ohms you're still looking at a damping factor which is less than one. A high damping factor is essential for a flat frequency response. This isn't Head-Fi nonsense, damping factors and impedance matching was taught to me when I was doing my undergrad in EE.

If you think it works "ok" then whatever. I guess your definition of "ok" just means it produces sound and no regard for high fidelity.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sun, 14 April 2013, 17:11:00
In my experience Shiit amps are kind of picky as to what headphones they like to work well with, but when they do pair they sound amazing. If I plug my Denon's or Senns into my Lyr they sound like trash, but they make my LCD's and Beyerdynamics absolutely sing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: arplod on Wed, 17 April 2013, 08:41:27
The real problem is that you don't know if a particular combo is good or not. Indeed, even some much-hyped add-ons (like the Essence STX) can suffer pretty badly from EM noise leakage in certain slot configurations.

At the same time though, it's pointless generalising 'all onboards suck, buy a DAC' because onboards have improved quite a lot as of late in general thanks to various Microsoft edicts for compatibility.
A properly designed DAC and amp will work great with any setup. Typically if you do DAC+amps combo they'll be external which eliminates the EMI problems you mentioned.

The quality of onboard sound has little to do with microsoft and compatibility.

I should have mentioned Intel in there as well - but they have minimums for audio quality, which have been ratcheted up over the years.

Quote
You don't tend to find quality onboard audio because most manufacturers are more interested in packing more quantity of features than quality of. Asus is very capable in producing decent soundcards but it is pretty apparent they don't even bother trying when it comes to onboard audio. That is why don't see them quoting any of their onboard's SNR, frequency response, output impedance etc but go on for days about supporting 192kHz audio (does anybody actually listen to high sampling rate audio?).

I'm not going to say onboard audio sucks but they are inferior to any well engineered sound interface. If the listener doesn't care or appreciates the difference then onboard is probably good enough. Having said that, DAC/amp is rarely a bad investment, you can use it for your next computer/laptops and always get a great sound.

Sure, for a couple of hundred plus. As I said if you happen to get a decent onboard, it may not be a major boost over a $100-class DAC, if at all. I personally prefer to skip the toys for the Head-Fi crowd and just get straight to the actual high-end and pro audio when going discrete. But what I said about onboard still stands nevertheless in my experience.
If you're referring to the Intel HDA specs then the minimum specs is really for the interfacing of the devices rather than the audio quality. Intel has some guidelines on circuit designs so you know you won't get clicks and pops but don't expect them to measure well.

High end hifi stuff is one thing but pro-audio is another. Pro audio equipment usually require balance audio and as a result they typically have a lower SNR. Also they are usually designed to drive studio headphones which are 250~600ohms and their output impedance is quite high (typically around 30-50ohms) and way too high to drive normal headphones properly.

This is kind of Head-Fi rote nonsense. Sure low-impedance phones work OK on a lot of studio gear. It's not all DT250-250's and HD600's out there IRL you know, jeez.

I don't know if you're trolling or not but if you're using low impedance loads like in ears (8 ohms) and your output impedance is 50ohms then you're looking at a damping factor of 0.16. There is absolutely no chance you'll get the intended frequency response of the interface, if you're looking at regular headphones 32 ohms you're still looking at a damping factor which is less than one. A high damping factor is essential for a flat frequency response. This isn't Head-Fi nonsense, damping factors and impedance matching was taught to me when I was doing my undergrad in EE.

If you think it works "ok" then whatever. I guess your definition of "ok" just means it produces sound and no regard for high fidelity.

We aren't talking about in-ears (with which absolutely there are frequently impedance issues) and you know it.

It's all very well throwing around theory, but clearly without genuine relevant experience you're the bigger troll.
[attachimg=1]
(And even this combo, which I wouldn't normally use = 1.03)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Johan on Wed, 17 April 2013, 09:33:59
Hi, this has probably been asked a million times but is there any good small headphone amp for a decent price? I've been looking at the NuForce udac2, according to my dads hifi magazine its the most bang for the buck.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 17 April 2013, 10:04:26
Hi, this has probably been asked a million times but is there any good small headphone amp for a decent price? I've been looking at the NuForce udac2, according to my dads hifi magazine its the most bang for the buck.

You're probably better off with a fiio e17. It's a portable amp and dac, and has many more usages than the udac2 such as treble & bass controls. What headphones are you looking to drive?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Johan on Wed, 17 April 2013, 12:33:17
I'm currently using the RS180 but I'm looking for some quality wired headphones that feel more "open" and less isolating, I've only heard good things about the Hd 598's, But I'm looking for an Amp now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 17 April 2013, 14:44:18
Took the bait, ordered the 600 Ohm version of HD 25. I wonder if a laptop soundcard will be able to drive it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pby on Wed, 17 April 2013, 18:37:56
The real problem is that you don't know if a particular combo is good or not. Indeed, even some much-hyped add-ons (like the Essence STX) can suffer pretty badly from EM noise leakage in certain slot configurations.

At the same time though, it's pointless generalising 'all onboards suck, buy a DAC' because onboards have improved quite a lot as of late in general thanks to various Microsoft edicts for compatibility.
A properly designed DAC and amp will work great with any setup. Typically if you do DAC+amps combo they'll be external which eliminates the EMI problems you mentioned.

The quality of onboard sound has little to do with microsoft and compatibility.

I should have mentioned Intel in there as well - but they have minimums for audio quality, which have been ratcheted up over the years.

Quote
You don't tend to find quality onboard audio because most manufacturers are more interested in packing more quantity of features than quality of. Asus is very capable in producing decent soundcards but it is pretty apparent they don't even bother trying when it comes to onboard audio. That is why don't see them quoting any of their onboard's SNR, frequency response, output impedance etc but go on for days about supporting 192kHz audio (does anybody actually listen to high sampling rate audio?).

I'm not going to say onboard audio sucks but they are inferior to any well engineered sound interface. If the listener doesn't care or appreciates the difference then onboard is probably good enough. Having said that, DAC/amp is rarely a bad investment, you can use it for your next computer/laptops and always get a great sound.

Sure, for a couple of hundred plus. As I said if you happen to get a decent onboard, it may not be a major boost over a $100-class DAC, if at all. I personally prefer to skip the toys for the Head-Fi crowd and just get straight to the actual high-end and pro audio when going discrete. But what I said about onboard still stands nevertheless in my experience.
If you're referring to the Intel HDA specs then the minimum specs is really for the interfacing of the devices rather than the audio quality. Intel has some guidelines on circuit designs so you know you won't get clicks and pops but don't expect them to measure well.

High end hifi stuff is one thing but pro-audio is another. Pro audio equipment usually require balance audio and as a result they typically have a lower SNR. Also they are usually designed to drive studio headphones which are 250~600ohms and their output impedance is quite high (typically around 30-50ohms) and way too high to drive normal headphones properly.

This is kind of Head-Fi rote nonsense. Sure low-impedance phones work OK on a lot of studio gear. It's not all DT250-250's and HD600's out there IRL you know, jeez.

I don't know if you're trolling or not but if you're using low impedance loads like in ears (8 ohms) and your output impedance is 50ohms then you're looking at a damping factor of 0.16. There is absolutely no chance you'll get the intended frequency response of the interface, if you're looking at regular headphones 32 ohms you're still looking at a damping factor which is less than one. A high damping factor is essential for a flat frequency response. This isn't Head-Fi nonsense, damping factors and impedance matching was taught to me when I was doing my undergrad in EE.

If you think it works "ok" then whatever. I guess your definition of "ok" just means it produces sound and no regard for high fidelity.

We aren't talking about in-ears (with which absolutely there are frequently impedance issues) and you know it.

It's all very well throwing around theory, but clearly without genuine relevant experience you're the bigger troll.
[attachimg=1]
(And even this combo, which I wouldn't normally use = 1.03)
(http://i.imgur.com/oLw4lWB.jpg)
Worked as a live sound engineer and console design but I guess that doesn't account for anything relevant.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bavman on Wed, 17 April 2013, 20:07:30
Took the bait, ordered the 600 Ohm version of HD 25. I wonder if a laptop soundcard will be able to drive it.

Probably, I heard they aren't as hard to drive as most 600ohm headphones, it might not get very loud, but it'll still probably be good enough for normal listening levels
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Wed, 17 April 2013, 20:08:07
Are the DT770's still in production by Beyer? Since they weren't listed at headroom, I kind of assumed they were discontinued.

If so, what is a good closed headphone, that does rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronica well? I'm looking for something in the $300-500 range.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 17 April 2013, 20:30:51
Are the DT770's still in production by Beyer? Since they weren't listed at headroom, I kind of assumed they were discontinued.

If so, what is a good closed headphone, that does rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronica well? I'm looking for something in the $300-500 range.

Yes, they're still in production. There aren't too many closed headphones in that price range. Maybe try the beyer t70? They pretty much sound like an improved version of the dt880, so they're very good for each genre. The t70's bass is pretty neutral though so that might not be to your liking for those genres.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 17 April 2013, 21:31:11
Took the bait, ordered the 600 Ohm version of HD 25. I wonder if a laptop soundcard will be able to drive it.

Probably, I heard they aren't as hard to drive as most 600ohm headphones, it might not get very loud, but it'll still probably be good enough for normal listening levels

Well, that's what I've read too, but I've had some doubts about my thinkpad recently. For example, it doesn't work with headsets that have 4pin jack.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Wed, 17 April 2013, 22:46:01
Are the DT770's still in production by Beyer? Since they weren't listed at headroom, I kind of assumed they were discontinued.

If so, what is a good closed headphone, that does rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronica well? I'm looking for something in the $300-500 range.

Yes, they're still in production. There aren't too many closed headphones in that price range. Maybe try the beyer t70? They pretty much sound like an improved version of the dt880, so they're very good for each genre. The t70's bass is pretty neutral though so that might not be to your liking for those genres.

Gotcha, thank you. Yes, I looked up the T70, and I'm all for neutral bass (not a bass-head myself). It's definitely a headphone I'm considering if my budget gets there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 17 April 2013, 23:02:05
Are the DT770's still in production by Beyer? Since they weren't listed at headroom, I kind of assumed they were discontinued.

If so, what is a good closed headphone, that does rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronica well? I'm looking for something in the $300-500 range.

Yes, they're still in production. There aren't too many closed headphones in that price range. Maybe try the beyer t70? They pretty much sound like an improved version of the dt880, so they're very good for each genre. The t70's bass is pretty neutral though so that might not be to your liking for those genres.

Gotcha, thank you. Yes, I looked up the T70, and I'm all for neutral bass (not a bass-head myself). It's definitely a headphone I'm considering if my budget gets there.

I was able to buy my pair of T70 (250ohm) for $345 (new) from a winter sale event last year :P. They're really a great pair of headphones, especially if you pair it up with a decent amp and dac. Even then, they're not too picky and scale very well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Thu, 18 April 2013, 02:15:25
Are the DT770's still in production by Beyer? Since they weren't listed at headroom, I kind of assumed they were discontinued.

If so, what is a good closed headphone, that does rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronica well? I'm looking for something in the $300-500 range.

Yes, they're still in production. There aren't too many closed headphones in that price range. Maybe try the beyer t70? They pretty much sound like an improved version of the dt880, so they're very good for each genre. The t70's bass is pretty neutral though so that might not be to your liking for those genres.

Gotcha, thank you. Yes, I looked up the T70, and I'm all for neutral bass (not a bass-head myself). It's definitely a headphone I'm considering if my budget gets there.

I was able to buy my pair of T70 (250ohm) for $345 (new) from a winter sale event last year :P. They're really a great pair of headphones, especially if you pair it up with a decent amp and dac. Even then, they're not too picky and scale very well.

Haha. Nice. Let me guess... from Amazon? I remember they had a pretty good sale of those at around the same price range.

Thank you for the heads-up. These are definitely in consideration.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 18 April 2013, 06:49:19
Sonicelectronix actually, but GL getting a good price on the T70s!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 18 April 2013, 13:46:14
Also, look into perhaps the MrSpeaker's mad dogs (https://www.mrspeakers.com/Audiophile-fostex-t50rp-upgrades-mrspeakers-mad-dog) as well. They're well within your budget. MrSpeakers will be at the NY head-fi meet, so I'll get a chance to listen to them!

Is anyone else here going to the NY head-fi meet?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Mon, 13 May 2013, 15:45:47
I just picked up a mint pair of Sennheiser HD-650's from eBay (in original box) for a pretty decent price.  After listening to the DT880 Pros at work for so long, these are a breath of fresh air.  They have that cheaper, plasticy feeling that all Senns have, but the reduced weight and the shape of the cans make them more comfortable after many hours of listening.  They are darker than the DT-880s, of course, but are more open and sound more lively at the same time.  Not sure how the difference in impedance is affecting how this little E17 drives them.  I'm going to do a more controlled comparison of all four of these on my good DAC at home at some point.

(http://www.knizefamily.net/images/pool/headphones-quad.jpg)

Left to right: Senn HD-650, Senn HD-558 ("598" mod), Beyer DT880 Pro, ATH M50
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 13 May 2013, 15:53:10
Nice, how much did you get the hd-650 for? I've always wanted to try the hd600 and 650 on my own setup, but i don't know of anyone who has them :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Mon, 13 May 2013, 15:56:57
I got them for under $350.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Mon, 13 May 2013, 21:42:31
I just picked up a mint pair of Sennheiser HD-650's from eBay (in original box) for a pretty decent price.  After listening to the DT880 Pros at work for so long, these are a breath of fresh air.  They have that cheaper, plasticy feeling that all Senns have, but the reduced weight and the shape of the cans make them more comfortable after many hours of listening.  They are darker than the DT-880s, of course, but are more open and sound more lively at the same time.  Not sure how the difference in impedance is affecting how this little E17 drives them.  I'm going to do a more controlled comparison of all four of these on my good DAC at home at some point.

Show Image
(http://www.knizefamily.net/images/pool/headphones-quad.jpg)


Left to right: Senn HD-650, Senn HD-558 ("598" mod), Beyer DT880 Pro, ATH M50

The DT880  has very low bass impact compared to the HD600/650 and a pretty high peak in the frequency response around 8-8.5 kHz which makes it sound brighter and more hissy/sibilant (this peak corresponds to the 's' sound).  I have also noted that the HD600/650 is much more comfortable than the upper-end Beyerdynamics.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ApocalypseMaow on Mon, 13 May 2013, 21:54:27
Got some ATH AD900s. I don't know a whole lot about headphone, but I do like these a lot so far.
(http://i.imgur.com/iu0N30F.jpg)
Please excuse the dumb face...  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rknize on Mon, 13 May 2013, 22:51:06
I just picked up a mint pair of Sennheiser HD-650's from eBay (in original box) for a pretty decent price.  After listening to the DT880 Pros at work for so long, these are a breath of fresh air.  They have that cheaper, plasticy feeling that all Senns have, but the reduced weight and the shape of the cans make them more comfortable after many hours of listening.  They are darker than the DT-880s, of course, but are more open and sound more lively at the same time.  Not sure how the difference in impedance is affecting how this little E17 drives them.  I'm going to do a more controlled comparison of all four of these on my good DAC at home at some point.

Show Image
(http://www.knizefamily.net/images/pool/headphones-quad.jpg)


Left to right: Senn HD-650, Senn HD-558 ("598" mod), Beyer DT880 Pro, ATH M50

The DT880  has very low bass impact compared to the HD600/650 and a pretty high peak in the frequency response around 8-8.5 kHz which makes it sound brighter and more hissy/sibilant (this peak corresponds to the 's' sound).  I have also noted that the HD600/650 is much more comfortable than the upper-end Beyerdynamics.

That is true of the DT770 for sure.  I found the DT880 much more tame with respect to that 8 kHz peak and liked their flatter response compared to the M50s (especially with bass-heavy music).  I've been switching between these 4 sets here at home, playing various genres of music and I have to say: I am not liking the DT880 as much as I was before.  I also noticed that the right channel's output is low.  They've been dropped many times at work, so I wonder if something is amiss.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 14 May 2013, 07:29:48
Beyers shine when used with tube amps. I didn't really have problems with sibilance when I had my dt880/600. I placed an order for a Schiit asgard 2 last night, which should arrive sometime next week.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Tue, 14 May 2013, 12:33:27
Anyone interested in trading for a pair of DT-770 250s? I can't use closed back headphones anymore and would be interested in trading for something open.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tufty on Thu, 16 May 2013, 01:59:40
Just replaced the foam in my HD490s.  After 20+ years, the original stuff had crumbled to dust.

I took the time to add some "direct through" holes, so not only are they now comfortable again, but they also have better bass.

Wahey!.  Aphex Twin at earbleed volume without annoying the neighbours.  Mind you, I'd better clean the kitchen table before Mrs tufty has a fit.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ApocalypseMaow on Thu, 16 May 2013, 06:02:28
Anyone interested in trading for a pair of DT-770 250s? I can't use closed back headphones anymore and would be interested in trading for something open.
How old are your DT770s?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Thu, 16 May 2013, 17:35:20
Anyone interested in trading for a pair of DT-770 250s? I can't use closed back headphones anymore and would be interested in trading for something open.
How old are your DT770s?


Bought them brand new maybe a few months ago? (I still have the original box) Barely used them because I have a slight ring in my ears they exacerbate, so I ended up sticking with my Grados for now. I'll throw them up in the classifieds in the next week but feel free to PM me if you have any interest.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Grim Fandango on Thu, 16 May 2013, 18:10:37
Got a pair of the Sony MDR-V6 headphones a few months ago. Very happy with them.
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/DbD7aOi.png)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/RJxHztG.jpg)


These are an amazing buy and value for money. I have a set that my dad bought somewhere in the 90's and they are still going strong. It is amazing to me that I used these to listen to stories from cassette as a kid, and that I still have them now AND they have a decent audioquality. You can get separate extra earpads for them if the earpad starts to fall apart, which is the only thing that will wear down with heavy use I found.

I also have the sennheiser HD518 which I am pretty happy with given that I got a great deal on them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ApocalypseMaow on Thu, 16 May 2013, 19:50:40
Anyone interested in trading for a pair of DT-770 250s? I can't use closed back headphones anymore and would be interested in trading for something open.
How old are your DT770s?


Bought them brand new maybe a few months ago? (I still have the original box) Barely used them because I have a slight ring in my ears they exacerbate, so I ended up sticking with my Grados for now. I'll throw them up in the classifieds in the next week but feel free to PM me if you have any interest.
I'll keep an eye out for those. I've wanted to try some out for a while.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Thu, 16 May 2013, 20:16:48
(http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim/2012/04/20/Audio-Technica_ATH-M50_Studio_Monitor_Headphones_33899646_02_620x433.jpg)
My favorites :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Sun, 19 May 2013, 01:31:49
Any Bottlehead Crack love here ?
(http://www.dropbox.com/s/ghbdne1qaouq2ng/2013-05-16%2001.44.28.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Sun, 19 May 2013, 08:45:08
woah, bottlehead has gone all out on headphones. three kits is as many kits as they used to vend _total_ when they had only serious tube amps and a line preamp
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Sun, 19 May 2013, 09:21:30
Nice! I hear so many great things about the Crack; Too bad I don't have a HD650  >:D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mkawa on Sun, 19 May 2013, 09:51:34
don't worry, i don't even have an hd650; why bother when my hd600s sound better every day at 12 years old :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 19 May 2013, 11:41:53
Someone should bring their HD600/650 to the next NYC GH meet so that I can try it out with my setup/music.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: takaki on Tue, 21 May 2013, 04:15:57
I actually liked the HD600 better than the HD650 too. :) Club HD600.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Tue, 21 May 2013, 04:30:54
I've been testing DT 770 M since yesterday. There's no doubt they sound considerably worse than regular DT 770 Pro, but I feel like I should have gone with Beyers from the beginning.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 21 May 2013, 05:40:25
I actually purchased an HD600 for $283 shipped last night for the sake of trying them out and comparing them with Beyers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Masterchief79 on Tue, 21 May 2013, 09:06:34
Anybody has experiences with the AKG K-701? I got one for christmas, it just broke (think it's a problem with the cable, one side doesn't work anymore). I must say I'm very disappointed by AKG products so far. I had 80€ In-Ears by them a few years ago, got them RMA'ed 3 times, and they broke 3 times in a row again, always within the first 3 weeks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Wed, 22 May 2013, 03:08:03
Anybody has experiences with the AKG K-701? I got one for christmas, it just broke (think it's a problem with the cable, one side doesn't work anymore). I must say I'm very disappointed by AKG products so far. I had 80€ In-Ears by them a few years ago, got them RMA'ed 3 times, and they broke 3 times in a row again, always within the first 3 weeks.

I've had my akg701s from thomann for like 2 years, only a few complaints; the headband or whatever you wanna call it, I've got literally exact same markings ON MY SCALP, its like the ****ing alps weird right, guess I shoulda cut em off. Then theres the goddamn chord, it's always under my chair that being said, I've started to experience mild disruption of the chord, I guess thats fixable.

Anyway, soundwise they're pretty much perfect for me, tho some people would argue it has a really weak bass :3 I've got ESI juli@ soundcard, heed canamp and some great RCAs I got from my local shop (musical blues?)

:llama:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 22 May 2013, 07:23:22
Not sure if the T70s are not picky, but I have trouble telling major differences between my Little Dot MK IV SE and my Asgard 2 that I received yesterday.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 26 May 2013, 18:39:53
So I bought a HD650 just to compare with my HD600. I found that they had very similar sound signatures, with the HD650 being a bit too laid back, polite, etc, AKA lacking treble for my tastes. There are lots of people who like the HD650, but I like my music to be engaging if it calls for it, and relaxing if it calls for it. So the HD650s will be returned sometime next week :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sun, 26 May 2013, 20:29:30
^ Wow. I did not realize you had the HD-600 (and now the HD-650) when I asked you about the T70.

I have the HD-650. ;)

How does the T70 compare to both the HD-600 and HD-650? How's the bass? The treble? How are they for electronica, hip-hop, and rock?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 26 May 2013, 21:41:21
I didn't have the sennheisers back then, I only got them this week.

Compared to the sennheisers, the T70s are more neutral sounding. The bass of the T70s are very flat; they do not have the weight or impact of the senns but the T70s have better extension. The T70s are also faster than the senns. This combination is great for electronica if you like the treble-happy type of music rather than the bass-heavy. I don't listen to much hip-hop, but I don't think the T70s have enough bass impact for it.

The mids on the T70 are bit recessed and slightly compared to the senns. I actually like this about the t70 for some genres. The slightly recessed mids and neutral bass leads to t70 sounding much "cleaner" than the sennheisers, with better instrument seperation. Like the bass though, the mids of the sennheisers have a lot more weight to it and you can hear it in strings and vocals.

Although the T70s are closed headphones, they manage to have a large soundstage; sometimes I feel that the T70s are more open than the sennheisers. I feel that the T70s also fair better at imaging, though I haven't tested this extensively.

The t70's treble wins hands down compared to the sennheisers though. It's very detailed and smooth sounding, and rarely harsh to my ears. The hd600's treble is still very present, but don't have the sparkle that the t70s do. The hd650s have the most laid back treble of the three.

Overall, I really like the t70 and the hd600. The hd600s have a very nice tonal balance that's engaging, and is a pleasure to listen to. The t70s, while being more analytical, I feel are still great for almost all genres because of its clean sound; I actually prefer it for orchestral and instrumental music. The hd650 like i said in my earlier post, are just way too laid back for my tastes.

Well, that's my opinion on the three headphones! I hope that helps.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sun, 26 May 2013, 21:52:12
Wow, thank you for the quick and detailed reply. The T70 is now REALLY high on my wish-list, mostly because of the detailed and smooth treble you mentioned. Also, bass impact isn't much of a problem for me, but bass extension, definitely. The HD-650 has plenty of bass impact... when it can actually find bass to play. But there are some hip-hop songs, where some frequency bands appear to be completely missing with the HD-650. So, on some songs, the HD-650 is simply astounding, yet others, it just falls completely flat. It's frustrating.

Anyway, thank you again for your impressions. If I could ask one more question, could you see the T70 as being a good "all-around" headphone, that does most genres well, compared to the HD-650?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 26 May 2013, 21:56:55
Yes, they're definitely great all-rounders just like the dt880 is, but improved upon in almost every way. I think the hd600's are the best all-rounders out of the three, but the t70 is very closely behind, and is a better all-rounder than the hd650 imo.

Edit: while the t70's treble is smooth, it is still a tad bit brighter than the hd600.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sun, 26 May 2013, 22:20:40
Oh man... now that you mention the HD-600 as being a better all-arounder than the T70, I'm now also thinking about the HD-600, haha.

But, I still think I want a closed headphone this time around, so most likely I'll go with the T70. Thanks again for your impressions.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 27 May 2013, 07:40:38
Oh man... now that you mention the HD-600 as being a better all-arounder than the T70, I'm now also thinking about the HD-600, haha.

But, I still think I want a closed headphone this time around, so most likely I'll go with the T70. Thanks again for your impressions.

Yeah I think the t70 would be a better choice for you, since it'll be a much different presentation. The hd600 isn't THAT much different from the hd650.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: deadlyfunzo on Thu, 30 May 2013, 02:19:42
Gentleman,

I have abit of a question which I would like some help with.

You guys are all pretty switched on with this stuff and figured this would be the place to ask.

I currently have this set-up.

Sennheiser HD 518's (I like them, I only use them every once and a while though)
(http://s24.postimg.org/3pyre8o91/WP_000240.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/6k1wroqf5/full/)
online photo sharing (http://postimage.org/)

Sound Blaster Fatality (ehh....)
(http://s24.postimg.org/6nvq7xvwl/WP_000243.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/6nvq7xvwh/full/)
screenshot green (http://postimage.org/app.php)

Swan M50's (Would buy another pair just for the novelty. They are that good)
(http://s24.postimg.org/jmxjaygn9/WP_000242.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/4qz03d58h/full/)
image hosting over 10mb (http://postimage.org/)

I want to improve my current audio-setup (For music, gaming is 2nd)
Now, I mainly use my speakers because they are pretty much beast as, but I want to get the most out of my headphones.
So, I was hoping to get a DAC/AMP combo which would allow me to output the improved signal to speakers plus provide me with a headphone amp that is better than the soundblaster one.

I was thinking of the Audio Engine D1, it seems popular and is in my price range. <$200

But then I wasn't sure if I would use TOSLINK or USB.
And I have no idea if the soundcard would be worth it after I get this, because my Motherboard has a digital output.

So basically, what should I get/do to improve this setup?

(I use FOOBAR with FLAC files which I rip myself, if you're wondering.)


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 30 May 2013, 05:05:05


This might just be what you're looking for:
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43874.0


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ping111 on Thu, 30 May 2013, 11:36:13
Does anyone have any thoughts on the EarPollution Mogulz DJ headphones?  They look to be of fantastic value, and some people tell me that they're some of the best in the world.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 30 May 2013, 11:42:03
Does anyone have any thoughts on the EarPollution Mogulz DJ headphones?  They look to be of fantastic value, and some people tell me that they're some of the best in the world.

Who's telling you that they're some of the best in the world? There are tons of better headphones out there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ping111 on Thu, 30 May 2013, 13:36:20
Does anyone have any thoughts on the EarPollution Mogulz DJ headphones?  They look to be of fantastic value, and some people tell me that they're some of the best in the world.

Who's telling you that they're some of the best in the world? There are tons of better headphones out there.
Well, the best in the world as an exaggerated point. 

To find the quality of a product, I usually try and find percentage reviews on products, and use that as the divisor, the price, the dividend.  The greater the answer, the better the product.  The average percentage on the Mogulz was about 85, so 85/70=1.214.  That's a really good rate.  My current phones, Bose AE2's, are 80/135=0.592.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 30 May 2013, 13:46:57
At that price point, you're better off with something like the Sony MDR-V6 (http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR-V6-Monitor-Headphones-Voice/dp/B00001WRSJ/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1369939369&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr-6) or the CAL (http://www.amazon.com/Creative-EF0060-Aurvana-Live-Headphones/dp/B000ZJZ7OA/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1369939394&sr=1-1&keywords=creative+aurvana+live)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sat, 01 June 2013, 04:49:20
I currently have this set-up.

Sennheiser HD 518's (I like them, I only use them every once and a while though)

Sound Blaster Fatality (ehh....)

Swan M50's (Would buy another pair just for the novelty. They are that good)

I want to improve my current audio-setup (For music, gaming is 2nd)
Now, I mainly use my speakers because they are pretty much beast as, but I want to get the most out of my headphones.
So, I was hoping to get a DAC/AMP combo which would allow me to output the improved signal to speakers plus provide me with a headphone amp that is better than the soundblaster one.

I was thinking of the Audio Engine D1, it seems popular and is in my price range. <$200

But then I wasn't sure if I would use TOSLINK or USB.
And I have no idea if the soundcard would be worth it after I get this, because my Motherboard has a digital output.

So basically, what should I get/do to improve this setup?

(I use FOOBAR with FLAC files which I rip myself, if you're wondering.)
If you care about retaining gaming audio support (hardware-accelerated OpenAL and DirectSound3D-with-ALchemy, EAX, that sort of thing), I'd suggest an external DAC with S/PDIF input (NOT USB, that's basically an external sound card in and of itself), connected to the X-Fi via Toslink. Also, if you're really picky about audio quality, set it to Audio Creation Mode, enable bit-matched playback, and use a media player with an ASIO plugin.

Still, I'd prioritize upgrading your headphones and speakers before anything else if you really want to hear a difference.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lbeuol on Tue, 04 June 2013, 02:28:47
I've been trying to decided between a senn hd650 or a HE-400 Planar forever but I can't seem to pull the trigger on either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 04 June 2013, 06:29:36
I've been trying to decided between a senn hd650 or a HE-400 Planar forever but I can't seem to pull the trigger on either.

They're both quite different. Would be best if you could try them both out. I'm trying to trade my T70 for a he-400 to try out. I'll let you know if i manage to get a pair.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: emptyk on Tue, 04 June 2013, 10:44:25
Just picked up the Sennheiser PX 100-II headphones as a somewhat lo-fi and affordable portable solution for my laptop. I didn't do my normal online research before buying them, other than looking at a few "thumbs up" reviews. I know they won't sound as good as my HD-650 headphones, but I'm still curious. Does anyone have any thoughts on the PX 100-II?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 04 June 2013, 11:24:13
Just picked up the Sennheiser PX 100-II headphones as a somewhat lo-fi and affordable portable solution for my laptop. I didn't do my normal online research before buying them, other than looking at a few "thumbs up" reviews. I know they won't sound as good as my HD-650 headphones, but I'm still curious. Does anyone have any thoughts on the PX 100-II?

They're portable and okay sounding, but they don't isolate and leak noise so you might be tempted to turn up the volume to compensate. Honestly, I would rather get IEMs cause they provide better isolation and sound quality then the PX 100-II imo. But if you're not into using IEMs and want a cheap portable, then it's a good choice.

Other on-ear choices would be v-moda m80, sennheiser hd-25-ii, and sennheiser amperiors. Out of them, I would go with the refurbished amperiors for looks, sound quality, and portability.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: emptyk on Tue, 04 June 2013, 11:34:00

They're portable and okay sounding, but they don't isolate and leak noise so you might be tempted to turn up the volume to compensate. Honestly, I would rather get IEMs cause they provide better isolation and sound quality then the PX 100-II imo. But if you're not into using IEMs and want a cheap portable, then it's a good choice.

Other on-ear choices would be v-moda m80, sennheiser hd-25-ii, and sennheiser amperiors. Out of them, I would go with the refurbished amperiors for looks, sound quality, and portability.

Thanks. I should have clarified that my budget was less than $50.00 and that I was looking for something open (other than a Grado) and non-IEM (I already have two sets of IEMs). These are basically going to be tossed around in backpacks and drawers, used by kids, and most likely lost or broken within a year. So I didn't want to drop $200 plus on better options. The Amperiors look sick, by the way.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Tue, 04 June 2013, 18:39:27

They're portable and okay sounding, but they don't isolate and leak noise so you might be tempted to turn up the volume to compensate. Honestly, I would rather get IEMs cause they provide better isolation and sound quality then the PX 100-II imo. But if you're not into using IEMs and want a cheap portable, then it's a good choice.

Other on-ear choices would be v-moda m80, sennheiser hd-25-ii, and sennheiser amperiors. Out of them, I would go with the refurbished amperiors for looks, sound quality, and portability.

Thanks. I should have clarified that my budget was less than $50.00 and that I was looking for something open (other than a Grado) and non-IEM (I already have two sets of IEMs). These are basically going to be tossed around in backpacks and drawers, used by kids, and most likely lost or broken within a year. So I didn't want to drop $200 plus on better options. The Amperiors look sick, by the way.

Koss PortaPro.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 04 June 2013, 18:48:23
Koss PortaPro.

For once, I agree with you. They do like to tug on hair though.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: emptyk on Wed, 05 June 2013, 11:11:45
It was actually a toss-up between the PX 100-II and the PortaPro. I found the Sennheiser for less, and that was the deciding factor. That said, I kinda like the quirky retro look of the PortaPro. I might get those just for the hell of it. One can never have too many headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 05 June 2013, 11:23:05
At that price point, you're better off with something like the Sony MDR-V6 (http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR-V6-Monitor-Headphones-Voice/dp/B00001WRSJ/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1369939369&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr-6) or the CAL (http://www.amazon.com/Creative-EF0060-Aurvana-Live-Headphones/dp/B000ZJZ7OA/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1369939394&sr=1-1&keywords=creative+aurvana+live)

MDR V-6 with velour  beyerdynamic replacement pads are the bee's knees
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 06 June 2013, 09:26:58
Purchased a used LFF Parafox modded t50rp last night. Time to see what a modded t50rp is all about. Hoping it'll arrive by Saturday so that I can play around with it during the weekend.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: boost on Thu, 06 June 2013, 10:06:11
Got a ath=a900x but need something with a little more bass. Any recommendations >
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 06 June 2013, 10:07:49
Got a ath=a900x but need something with a little more bass. Any recommendations >

Budget? And what will you be playing your music out of?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: boost on Thu, 06 June 2013, 11:39:17
Got a ath=a900x but need something with a little more bass. Any recommendations >

Budget? And what will you be playing your music out of?


MAX of like $250ish. Playing from the PC. Thought about getting a amp but not 100% sure yet.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 06 June 2013, 12:57:37
For ampless usage, I'd recommend the HD598 or he-300. Both of those should have more bass than the A900x, with the he-300 having the most out of the three. If you were to purchase a amp, I would recommend you to look into the dt770/80ohm pro or the dt990/250ohm pro. All of those fit nicely within your budget. If you are sensitive to treble though, then stick with the hd598 or he-300 or make use of an EQ to tame the treble.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 06 June 2013, 13:07:43
And boost, since you're in NYC, you can try the dt880 and dt990 at B&H (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/find/HelpCenter/NYSuperStore08.jsp), as well as many other headphones there. B&H has a great 30 day return policy, with no restocking fees. AC gears (http://www.acgears.com/contact-us) has the hd598 if you want to try that out as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: boost on Thu, 06 June 2013, 13:47:49
Thanks. Will check those out
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 06 June 2013, 14:53:53
Purchased a used LFF Parafox modded t50rp last night. Time to see what a modded t50rp is all about. Hoping it'll arrive by Saturday so that I can play around with it during the weekend.

If they're as good or better than my mad dogs... you will enjoy :3
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 06 June 2013, 21:45:56
And boost, since you're in NYC, you can try the dt880 and dt990 at B&H (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/find/HelpCenter/NYSuperStore08.jsp), as well as many other headphones there. B&H has a great 30 day return policy, with no restocking fees. AC gears (http://www.acgears.com/contact-us) has the hd598 if you want to try that out as well.

DT880 and DT990 have almost non-existent bass impact.  Drums sound like drum noises, not drums.  Same with AGK K701/702.  I don't think I've heard the DT770, but the DT880 is almost always recommended over the three at 600 ohms.  The DT990 has more bass than the DT880.

Oh yeah, I need to say something positive too because that's what people like.  The HD600/650 have much much better  bass.  Bose AE2 (bracing myself for: OMFG BOSE=Buy Other Sound Equipment/Better Off with Something Else HAW HAW HAW) also has good bass, and same with the Denon AH-Dx000s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 06 June 2013, 21:56:35
My friend came over with his dt990/250 pro and I found it to have more bass impact than the hd600. The dt880 is lacking bass impact, but it still has more bass than the a900x at least.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 06 June 2013, 22:02:04
My friend came over with his dt990/250 pro and I found it to have more bass impact than the hd600. The dt880 is lacking bass impact, but it still has more bass than the a900x at least.

I think I had the dt990 before I got the HD600.  You could be right.  But I did have the dt880 at the same time as the hd600 and it definitely had less; at least the 600 ohm version anyway.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lbeuol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 12:41:27
I've been trying to decided between a senn hd650 or a HE-400 Planar forever but I can't seem to pull the trigger on either.

They're both quite different. Would be best if you could try them both out. I'm trying to trade my T70 for a he-400 to try out. I'll let you know if i manage to get a pair.

That'd be great, I really wish I could try them locally =(

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 June 2013, 13:39:22
That'd be great, I really wish I could try them locally =(

Where do you live? You'd be able to try both of them if you lived in NYC. Im sure there are places in California that have them too. If not, there are lots of comparisons on line that you can look at, such as this one (http://www.head-fi.org/t/631682/he400-vs-hd650). It all really depends on whether you would prefer the presentation of the hd650 or the he-400. The hd650 is a much more laidback headphone than the he-400. Also the he-400s are much easier to drive compared to the hd650.

If you can, buy used off of the head-fi classifieds and if you don't like them, you can re-sell them for a minimum loss.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Fri, 07 June 2013, 13:42:49
I wanted to get into headphones...but then i found keyboards xD
no money to buy a decent set of cans

..someday..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 June 2013, 13:49:00
I wanted to get into headphones...but then i found keyboards xD
no money to buy a decent set of cans

..someday..

It doesn't cost much to get decent sound. That being said, if the NYC GH meet gets going, you could try out my headphones and setup.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lbeuol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 13:55:53
I live in Oregon so that's pretty slim picking haha. I've looked around on head-fi but never pulled the trigger on anything.

I bought a V-MODA Crossfade LP2  awhile ago and I absolutely love them. That being said you should prob try an ad700 when you can Dubsgalore those are pretty amazing and comfortable for their price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 June 2013, 14:04:42
I live in Oregon so that's pretty slim picking haha. I've looked around on head-fi but never pulled the trigger on anything.

I bought a V-MODA Crossfade LP2  awhile ago and I absolutely love them. That being said you should prob try an ad700 when you can Dubsgalore those are pretty amazing and comfortable for their price.

If you liked the LP2, I think you'll definitely like the hd650 much more than the he-400. The LP2s have a rolled off treble that is much more similar to the hd650's treble than the he-400's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lbeuol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 14:09:26
Oh nice, thanks for your advice. I was a bit worried about the he-400 since it looks huge I was worried that I'd look so goofy with them on.

What kind amp/dac would you suggest? I have a Fiio e9 at the moment
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alaricljs on Fri, 07 June 2013, 14:18:59
Mmmm.. I can bring my Pimeta and dt770/250s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 June 2013, 14:19:54
The Fiio E9 will do a fine job at driving the hd650 since it is a high impedance headphone. A good dac to start out with would be a Schiit Modi for just $100 + shipping. The fiio e7k (docked into the E9) is a decent option if you want something that you can also use portably, but it will not perform as well as the Modi.

Now if you're looking for something more refined than the entry level amps and dacs, then you'll have to spend a bit more money.

@$245, the Little Dot MK III was my first desktop amp. It did a great job in driving my dt880/600 but I no longer have either of them. Lots of tube rolling options here, though I feel like the Asgard 2 is a better buy.

@$250, the Schiit Asgard 2 is a wonderful solid state amp that will power traditional dynamic headphones, orthos, and IEMs. It also has a pre-amp out feature if you wish to use powered speakers in your setup. Ultimately I returned the Asgard 2 as I preferred the Little dot MK IV SE.

@$280 (pre-built, cheaper if you DIY), the Project Sunrise 2 is a hybrid amp that gets praised by the people who use it. I have a friend that has it, and I found that its performance wasn't too far off from the Little Dot MK IV SE. Lots of tube rolling options here too.

@454, the Little Dot MK IV SE is the best amp that I've owned so far. It improves upon the MK III and I preferred it over the Asgard 2 when used with the hd600/650 and Beyer t70. The MK IV SE seemed to bring out more sub-bass than the Asgard 2, smoothed the treble a little, and made vocals sound a bit better.

There's also the Schiit Valhalla and Lyr, but I haven't heard those so I wont comment on them.

As for dacs, just stick with the Modi imo. Your money is better spent towards a amp at this point.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lbeuol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 14:33:25
Yea I tried an e7 awhile ago and it was pretty underwhelming, thanks I'll look into the modi.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 14:34:54
Got Sennheiser HD 565 today. With new cable and earpads. Unfortunately the headband pad was in disgusting condition, thus I've just thrown it away, and I'm using the cans with a DT770's cushion pad. This is my major concern right now, because those headphones are quite heavy—I'd prefer some clamping force (which is basically non-existent here) rather than pressure in the middle of my head. Also, it feels like quite the opposite of ATH-AD500: it's really around the ear (my auricles don't touch the drivers at all), pads fit perfectly on my head, but the headband...

I've read that sound should be very similar to HD 580, which was replaced by HD 600... differences are said to be rather small without a good amp. Sounds like a great deal! I haven't tried any open sennheisers recently, hence I can't really compare though. I've been impressed mostly by decent bass so far.

BTW that rough grey plastic looks ugly.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Fri, 07 June 2013, 14:53:07
I wanted to get into headphones...but then i found keyboards xD
no money to buy a decent set of cans

..someday..

It doesn't cost much to get decent sound. That being said, if the NYC GH meet gets going, you could try out my headphones and setup.

that would be a cool idea! xD
using a steelseries headset and onboard audio...so basically it's just comfy right now haha

i would like to get into the hifi (headfi?) community soon
i listen to a lot of edm haha
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Atakp on Fri, 07 June 2013, 15:04:19
Head fi was hurting my wallet more than keyboards ever did. I'm perfectly content with my setups now so I try to stay away from looking at more stuff. I have a short list of things I'd like to have, but there's no way I can justify some of those prices at this point in my life.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 15:17:55
I wanted to get into headphones...but then i found keyboards xD
no money to buy a decent set of cans

..someday..

It doesn't cost much to get decent sound. That being said, if the NYC GH meet gets going, you could try out my headphones and setup.

that would be a cool idea! xD
using a steelseries headset and onboard audio...so basically it's just comfy right now haha

i would like to get into the hifi (headfi?) community soon
i listen to a lot of edm haha

Just beware! It's a trap. I already have six pairs of headphones at this point (and planning to get IEMs and probably two amps), and you may find yourself listening to sounds rather than music.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Fri, 07 June 2013, 15:22:44
i actually kinda want to get into headphones and audio...but I right now I want to focus on satisfying my keyboards needs...which seems endless right now

a friend suggested to me 'Sony MDRv6' headphones...so i think i will save up for them now!

of course after i buy my poker 2 and preorder dolch ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Photekq on Fri, 07 June 2013, 15:28:30
i actually kinda want to get into headphones and audio...but I right now I want to focus on satisfying my keyboards needs...which seems endless right now

a friend suggested to me 'Sony MDRv6' headphones...so i think i will save up for them now!

of course after i buy my poker 2 and preorder dolch ;)
idk what kinda edm you listen to but if it has a decent amount of low, heavy bass then don't get the mdrs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 June 2013, 15:34:55
I'd go with the Creative Aurvana Live instead for EDM, the MDR-V6s have more treble and less bass.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Fri, 07 June 2013, 15:39:40
i actually kinda want to get into headphones and audio...but I right now I want to focus on satisfying my keyboards needs...which seems endless right now

a friend suggested to me 'Sony MDRv6' headphones...so i think i will save up for them now!

of course after i buy my poker 2 and preorder dolch ;)
idk what kinda edm you listen to but if it has a decent amount of low, heavy bass then don't get the mdrs.

lot of drumstep, progressive and melodic house, and trance

I'd go with the Creative Aurvana Live instead for EDM, the MDR-V6s have more treble and less bass.

shall take a look
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lbeuol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 16:44:34
:O Massdrop just put up Beyerdynamic DT 880
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 June 2013, 16:48:16
:O Massdrop just put up Beyerdynamic DT 880

Not bad... I hope they allow for the 600ohm though. You could get a used dt880/600 for about $220ish used, shipped.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lbeuol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 16:50:56
Yea the lowest tier is $219 new too bad only 250 ohm one....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Photekq on Fri, 07 June 2013, 16:52:55
lot of drumstep, progressive and melodic house, and trance
Mdrs would be fine for house and trance. I'm not too familiar with drumstep though. Am I right in saying it's a mix of "dubstep" (note "s) and the drums from drum & bass? If so then the mdrs would be fine. They're just bad when it comes to low, deep bass like this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOQIoUq4GWg#t=1m5s).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 07 June 2013, 17:11:27
Yea the lowest tier is $219 new too bad only 250 ohm one....

Lowest is tier is $249 + shipping actually =/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Fri, 07 June 2013, 17:13:46
lot of drumstep, progressive and melodic house, and trance
Mdrs would be fine for house and trance. I'm not too familiar with drumstep though. Am I right in saying it's a mix of "dubstep" (note "s) and the drums from drum & bass? If so then the mdrs would be fine. They're just bad when it comes to low, deep bass like this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOQIoUq4GWg#t=1m5s).

Just listening to that track on the Turtle Beach X12, with the "bass" adjusted all the way up...   :p

I have got to get a different hobby.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Photekq on Fri, 07 June 2013, 17:15:33

Just listening to that track on the Turtle Beach X12, with the "bass" adjusted all the way up...   :p

I have got to get a different hobby.
Were you even able to hear that bass on the turtle beaches? If so then I'm genuinely surprised! I find that song to be an amazing test for headphones since most bad headphones can barely pick up the bass on it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lbeuol on Fri, 07 June 2013, 17:18:38
I forgot how to read
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Fri, 07 June 2013, 17:19:37
lot of drumstep, progressive and melodic house, and trance
Mdrs would be fine for house and trance. I'm not too familiar with drumstep though. Am I right in saying it's a mix of "dubstep" (note "s) and the drums from drum & bass? If so then the mdrs would be fine. They're just bad when it comes to low, deep bass like this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOQIoUq4GWg#t=1m5s).


sounds good to me
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Mon, 10 June 2013, 07:00:59
Based on the recommendations here, I picked up a pair of Sennheiser HD598 headphones over the weekend.  Very nice listening experience!  My only other Sennheisers were HD205's, which were really tight fitting, and not nearly as comfortable as the larger over-ear cans.

These are my first open-back headphones, really have a spacious sound.  I've listened to various music types with them so far, and I haven't found a single area where they fall short of my expectations.  Tight bass, clear mid-range, and highs aren't metallic at all, very balanced and musical.  I've also used them for listening to movies, given me a whole new appreciation for end-credit music!

Using a Xonar DX sound card on my home PC, and the stock audio output on my work laptop.  Listening levels are perfect at less than 5% of total volume.

I did find to my chagrin that the outboard microphone I purchased for a gaming Skype setup wasn't actually necessary.  I was having trouble hearing player dialogue around the remote game table using the Turtle Beach X12 headphones, but the HD598s resolve speech wonderfully, I was able to hear even background chatter with no straining. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 10 June 2013, 07:08:57
Based on the recommendations here, I picked up a pair of Sennheiser HD598 headphones over the weekend.  Very nice listening experience!  My only other Sennheisers were HD205's, which were really tight fitting, and not nearly as comfortable as the larger over-ear cans.

These are my first open-back headphones, really have a spacious sound.  I've listened to various music types with them so far, and I haven't found a single area where they fall short of my expectations.  Tight bass, clear mid-range, and highs aren't metallic at all, very balanced and musical.  I've also used them for listening to movies, given me a whole new appreciation for end-credit music!

Using a Xonar DX sound card on my home PC, and the stock audio output on my work laptop.  Listening levels are perfect at less than 5% of total volume.

I did find to my chagrin that the outboard microphone I purchased for a gaming Skype setup wasn't actually necessary.  I was having trouble hearing player dialogue around the remote game table using the Turtle Beach X12 headphones, but the HD598s resolve speech wonderfully, I was able to hear even background chatter with no straining. 


Im glad that you like them! Great intro (a little past that) headphones that don't need an amp to shine.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Mon, 10 June 2013, 08:04:35
Lets see what I own:

Sennheiser  Hd558
Audio-Technica M50
Philips Fidelio X1
Sennheiser Hd600
Vsonic Gr07
Sony Mh1c( a couple of pairs)
Steelseries Siberia V1 and V2

Sources and Amps:
Epiphany Acoustics E-DAC(2)
Epiphany Acoustics O2(2)

I stopped buying as many headphones when I came here..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 10 June 2013, 08:10:56
You're pretty much set with the o2/odac combined with the hd600 & gr07! But which are your favorite pair of headphones?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Mon, 10 June 2013, 08:37:56
You're pretty much set with the o2/odac combined with the hd600 & gr07! But which are your favorite pair of headphones?
Right now I'm enjoying the X1 very much, they make everything feel so alive with a slight V-curve. But if I only had to own one I think I would choose the Gr07 because I can take them anywhere. I use 4th gen Nano as portable player.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 10 June 2013, 08:42:56
I've listened to the Fidelio L1 and wasn't impressed by it at all. It was overly dark for me. I'd like to try the X1, but unfortunately it isn't available in the U.S yet for some reason.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Mon, 10 June 2013, 08:47:30
I've listened to the Fidelio L1 and wasn't impressed by it at all. It was overly dark for me. I'd like to try the X1, but unfortunately it isn't available in the U.S yet for some reason.
I've tried the L1 and hated them so..
It is weird that they're not in the US yet,
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 10 June 2013, 19:04:16
LFF Paradox = full of win. Most neutral and clearest sounding headphone i've ever owned. It's hard to believe how a modded $100 headphone can sound THIS GOOD.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 11 June 2013, 10:15:11
LFF Paradox = full of win. Most neutral and clearest sounding headphone i've ever owned. It's hard to believe how a modded $100 headphone can sound THIS GOOD.

I would love to meet up with you and compare the alpha dog pad mad dogs to your LFF Paradox headset!  They have exceeded my expectations and compared to the stock Fostex they are amazingly neutral/brilliant sounding.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 11 June 2013, 10:21:02
Where do you live?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 11 June 2013, 10:29:48
Where do you live?

Pennsyl-tucky :)  Land of... land.  And Amish :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 11 June 2013, 10:47:03
I see... thats probably not going to work out then xD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: raspiguy on Tue, 11 June 2013, 12:29:29
I wanted to get into headphones...but then i found keyboards xD
no money to buy a decent set of cans

..someday..
You'd be surprised how little you can spend and come away with an outstanding set / setup.  Specifically, the V-Moda M-80's that MSRP at $200 -- which most people even on head-fi would have to include in best entry-level bang-for-buck discussions -- are now down to $145-160 regular price on Amazon, and can occasionally be caught on sale there for $130 new.  Crazy good headphones for exactly the same price as a good mid/high-end stock mechanical keyboard.  Give up one keyboard you were planning on buying and "someday" could be next week's audio revelation.

If you want to take advantage of opportunity while it's there, go one step further and get in on the Massdrop going on right now for a Fiio E17 for $100 shipped, and pick up anything you need for using its digital input, and for $250 total, you are all set with a highly-portable/-versatile solution (for virtually any platform you choose, I might add - PC/Mac/Linux, x86/ARM).
I live in Oregon so that's pretty slim picking haha. I've looked around on head-fi but never pulled the trigger on anything.

I bought a V-MODA Crossfade LP2  awhile ago and I absolutely love them. That being said you should prob try an ad700 when you can Dubsgalore those are pretty amazing and comfortable for their price.
I got the Crossfade LPs in late 2011 as my first ever attempt at a decent pair and was generally really pleased for the price.  Really respectable if you're into bass-heavy music -- like a savvy consumers' secret for getting better Beats, at 75% off.

Then BF week '12 came along and I found the M-80s on Amazon on sale for $130 & couldn't help myself.  Long-story-short, the LPs have been sent to 'time-out' in the corner indefinitely, or until I can figure out why I bought them.  The M80s are that good, comparatively, for such a reasonably marginal cost.  I highly recommend, if you're interested in upgrading.  Only catch is you have to dedicate yourself to making on-ear work for you -- but it's worth it in the end.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Wed, 12 June 2013, 00:16:19
Sennheiser HD555s with the 595 mod. I've considered marrying them.

You'd end up cheating on them with the HD600.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jack Karneval on Thu, 13 June 2013, 18:37:34
Sennheiser HD555s with the 595 mod. I've considered marrying them.

You'd end up cheating on them with the HD600.

I've done the same thing with my HD555s, and I love them to death, but as much as I'd love to get a pair of HD600s, I think my next pair of headphones will be the Ultrasone PRO750's. I want something with a tad more punch due to all that electronic music I listen to :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 13 June 2013, 18:44:26
Please for the love of god hi-fi... don't get ultrasones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jocelyn on Thu, 13 June 2013, 18:46:33
Please for the love of god hi-fi... don't get ultrasones.

ROFL!!! (Well put) This^
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jack Karneval on Thu, 13 June 2013, 19:28:34
Please for the love of god hi-fi... don't get ultrasones.

Hm, why not?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 13 June 2013, 19:34:02
Please for the love of god hi-fi... don't get ultrasones.

Hm, why not?

Have you, personally, listened to any ultrasones before?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jack Karneval on Thu, 13 June 2013, 19:35:45
Please for the love of god hi-fi... don't get ultrasones.

Hm, why not?

Have you, personally, listened to any ultrasones before?

Actually yes, I've listened to the PRO 750 & PRO 900. I personally liked the PRO 750s more than I did the 900s, but whatevs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 13 June 2013, 19:48:14
I can't say much about the pro 750 but here's what I have to say about the ones that i've heard:

Pro 900 - overwhelming bass with super harsh treble. "The 5 sec rule is safer than 5 secs listening to these" -purrin
HFI-580 - sounded okay-ish... but mids were kinda weird and still had harsh treble.
HFI-2200 - ^same crap.
DJ1 pro - Possibly the worst headphone I've ever heard. I'd rather take beats than the DJ1 pro. Vocals on these headphones sound like they were bouncing off walls in a cave. A CSD plot will show you why.
Edition 8 - Eh... sounded okay, but still had the ultrasone treble. More overpriced than beats.

Edition 10 -
<-nuff said, great lulz.

If you really want more bass impact for electronic music, go hd600 or go ortho. Even a dt990 would do, providing you with great bass while having smoother treble than any ultrasone would have.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jack Karneval on Thu, 13 June 2013, 20:06:29
I can't say much about the pro 750 but here's what I have to say about the ones that i've heard:

Pro 900 - overwhelming bass with super harsh treble. "The 5 sec rule is safer than 5 secs listening to these" -purrin
HFI-580 - sounded okay-ish... but mids were kinda weird and still had harsh treble.
HFI-2200 - ^same crap.
DJ1 pro - Possibly the worst headphone I've ever heard. I'd rather take beats than the DJ1 pro. Vocals on these headphones sound like they were bouncing off walls in a cave. A CSD plot will show you why.
Edition 8 - Eh... sounded okay, but still had the ultrasone treble. More overpriced than beats.

Edition 10 -
<-nuff said, great lulz.

If you really want more bass impact for electronic music, go hd600 or go ortho. Even a dt990 would do, providing you with great bass while having smoother treble than any ultrasone would have.

Interesting, and that video was bloody hilarious, yet kind of hard to watch lol. I've read things about people not liking Ultrasone's patented S-Logic stuff that they put in their headphones, so I imagine that's probably what doesn't appeal to you as well as the general sound of the headphones. Also, it's rare that I actually like any headphones I buy off the bat, it took me a year or two to really appreciate my HD-555's. With the PRO 750s though I thoroughly enjoyed them within a couple of minutes, although this was at B&H Photo in NY where the headphones may have undergone some serious burn-in prior to me actually having a chance to listen to them. They were also extremely comfortable as well, but not as comfortable as Beyerdynamics lol.

Ultimately, I don't know what I'll buy next, headphones aren't really high on my priority list right now. I'd much rather invest in a shiny new keyboard :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 13 June 2013, 20:11:44
dt990/250 pro just $172.98 + tax direct from amazon! B&H has them for $ 167.50 + tax as well. Give them a try if you go to B&H next time. Beyers do sound better on a tube amp though, imo. I wish B&H had a seperate room for their headphones section; its hard to listen a an open headphone properly in such a noisy environment.

And that's understandable, this is a keyboard forum after all.  ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sameer.wahid on Sat, 15 June 2013, 07:53:55

Just beware! It's a trap. I already have six pairs of headphones at this point (and planning to get IEMs and probably two amps), and you may find yourself listening to sounds rather than music.

This. I poured too much money into headphones after joining Head-Fi a while ago. There's a lot of hype around headphones that I was completely suckered into...

I need good isolation at work (I share an office with others) and my current IEMs aren't blocking enough. I ordered custom IEMs from Westone, but instead of burning a grand on the ES5, I decided to try the ES1 (under $400), since I really wanted them for improved isolation, not sound. Just had the molds done last week, but from what I've read they are among the most isolating IEMs.

Anyone know of other good IEMs in terms of isolation? Over ear headphones are not an option for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 15 June 2013, 08:09:13
There's definitely a lot of over-hype and BS going on in head-fi. Perhaps get the Etymotic ER-4S? Anything with tri-flange tips will probably work well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sameer.wahid on Sat, 15 June 2013, 16:47:36
I actually did have Etymotics for a few days - they sounded great but I could not stand the feeling of the triflanges in my canals (it's even worse with the tri-flanges that came with my Shure IEMs).  So far, the best have been either Shure Olive or Comply foam tips. However, while those are good enough to block the noise during my commute, they don't block voices as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 15 June 2013, 16:50:18
I see, well wait for your ES1 I suppose. If a acrylic shell is not enough isolation for you, you may want to get a silicone shelled CIEM for even more isolation.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mysteric on Sat, 15 June 2013, 21:24:55
Need some circumaural headphones for dance, trance, dubstep and pop. Comfort is very important to me. DT770 Pro 80s sounded too distant and were uncomfortable on my jaw but fine on my ears and the M-Audio Q40s clamped my jaw like a vice grip even after I stretched them. Any advice on headphones for £150 GBP or below?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 15 June 2013, 21:25:53
Too distant in what way? Perhaps with vocals? Amped or unamped?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sameer.wahid on Sat, 15 June 2013, 21:29:14
I see, well wait for your ES1 I suppose. If a acrylic shell is not enough isolation for you, you may want to get a silicone shelled CIEM for even more isolation.

Thegunner100 - The ES1 are actually a nifty silicone/acrylic hybrid (silicone at the tip), which was what drew me to Westone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 15 June 2013, 21:30:17
I see, well wait for your ES1 I suppose. If a acrylic shell is not enough isolation for you, you may want to get a silicone shelled CIEM for even more isolation.

Thegunner100 - The ES1 are actually a nifty silicone/acrylic hybrid (silicone at the tip), which was what drew me to Westone.

Ahh okay, I didn't notice that from just looking at the product page's picture :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sameer.wahid on Sat, 15 June 2013, 21:30:18
Need some circumaural headphones for dance, trance, dubstep and pop. Comfort is very important to me. DT770 Pro 80s sounded too distant and were uncomfortable on my jaw but fine on my ears and the M-Audio Q40s clamped my jaw like a vice grip even after I stretched them. Any advice on headphones for £150 GBP or below?

Mackem, I would suggest ATH-M50s. I had a pair for a while, and found them to be comfortable and with good sound for the price (much less than 150GBP).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mysteric on Sat, 15 June 2013, 21:42:33
Too distant in what way? Perhaps with vocals? Amped or unamped?

I was running them through a Xonar DX soundcard but everything just sounded hollow / distant
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sat, 15 June 2013, 21:59:58
You could give the m50s a try, but I didn't find them too comfortable until you stretch out the headband, and swap the pads out for the dt250 pads in addition to taping the holes on the pads. They're a fairly balanced sounding headphone that don't require an amp. Alternatively, there's the hd598 but I'm not sure if it has enough bass impact for your music. Maybe check out the srh840 as well? It's a bit harder to recommend something since I don't know how headphones are priced in the UK.

I also find that a nice tube amp helps with the mids on Beyers, but that might not be something you want invest in right now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rootwyrm on Mon, 17 June 2013, 15:09:17
I need a headphone amp that doesn't suck at top end - I don't listen to stuff that's mastered at 20kHz top often and I hear up to at least 26kHz. Yes, that means the FiiO E17 is pretty much right out (http://www.fiio.com.cn/UploadFiles/main/Images/2012/12/20121204094036.jpg). If it's not reasonably flat on distortion through at least 22kHz, nope! Portable is best but I can live with desktop. I can't live with the insane $600+ gold-plated deoxygenated snake-oil crap though.

It'll be driven by various, but mostly an HT Omega Claro Halo (non-XT, so no amp), Claro II and mediocre juryrigged mixing board (which includes a Prophet 2k8) - could use some OpAmp recommendations as well for the Claros.

Halp?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 17 June 2013, 15:27:01
So you really hear up to 26khz eh...? Please tell us how it sounds like up there, cause I can barely hear past 19.4khz on my hd600 + UHA-6S using audacity's tone generator.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 17 June 2013, 15:31:02
I need a headphone amp that doesn't suck at top end - I don't listen to stuff that's mastered at 20kHz top often and I hear up to at least 26kHz. Yes, that means the FiiO E17 is pretty much right out (http://www.fiio.com.cn/UploadFiles/main/Images/2012/12/20121204094036.jpg). If it's not reasonably flat on distortion through at least 22kHz, nope! Portable is best but I can live with desktop. I can't live with the insane $600+ gold-plated deoxygenated snake-oil crap though.

It'll be driven by various, but mostly an HT Omega Claro Halo (non-XT, so no amp), Claro II and mediocre juryrigged mixing board (which includes a Prophet 2k8) - could use some OpAmp recommendations as well for the Claros.

Halp?

There's a lot of analog devices and Ti opamps I love, but I mostly use mono opamps for the purpose of guitar amplification/overdrive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rootwyrm on Tue, 18 June 2013, 13:18:13
So you really hear up to 26khz eh...? Please tell us how it sounds like up there, cause I can barely hear past 19.4khz on my hd600 + UHA-6S using audacity's tone generator.

"Bright! It sounds bright!"
But no, seriously, most of what you listen to is mastered to 20kHz at most - anything above 20 gets cut - and more often than not it's poor workmanship and deliberate trimming above 16. But when you listen to, say, something that was recorded on Ampex 2" without a high cutoff of 20kHz and not much muddling? There's mostly just beautiful subtleties above 22 - up to 22 gets you more out of analog synthesizers and certain percussion elements have better definition. TBH anything above 22kHz is a waste, but hitting 22 is hard, so most 20kHz+ headphones and speakers are over by a fair amount to a ridiculous amount. Nothing wrong with that necessarily, but super-tweeter versus ribbon, I'll take the ribbon thanks.

There's a lot of analog devices and Ti opamps I love, but I mostly use mono opamps for the purpose of guitar amplification/overdrive.

Yeah, I was considering LME49720 or good old OPA2134 since it needs to be two channel, but I'm not well versed in OpAmps. Trying to find something with a very low voltage offset drift, due to high temperatures.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 18 June 2013, 13:23:09
Yeah, I was considering LME49720 or good old OPA2134 since it needs to be two channel, but I'm not well versed in OpAmps. Trying to find something with a very low voltage offset drift, due to high temperatures.


I've used the mono version of the OPA2134 in all kinds of head/cold due to weather conditions, but I have not used it in something that generates its own heat.  Sounded great the whole time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rootwyrm on Tue, 18 June 2013, 14:44:28
Yeah, I was considering LME49720 or good old OPA2134 since it needs to be two channel, but I'm not well versed in OpAmps. Trying to find something with a very low voltage offset drift, due to high temperatures.


I've used the mono version of the OPA2134 in all kinds of head/cold due to weather conditions, but I have not used it in something that generates its own heat.  Sounded great the whole time.

Yeah, when it's not a huge amount of heat it's not a concern. Problem is, some of them are going right next to serious heat generators. Open air thermistors register around 45-50C typical with free air. Free air's going away with another heat generator, so call it 55C probably. Makes me a little concerned.

For the curious - this is for AKG K712 Pros and the OpAmp sensitive output is to Koss Pro4AA's and others I can't disclose (review sample.)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Badwrench on Fri, 28 June 2013, 00:32:09
Re-sleeved my Ath-ad500's with some violet mdpc-x and added a Rean 3.5mm plug.  Shortened the cable about a foot.  Doing my Ha-Rx500's tonight and am gonna shorten those about 4ft (cable is 10ft long). 

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Fri, 28 June 2013, 03:08:18
If you strap two ducks to the side of your head you will never hear echos. FACT.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jack Karneval on Fri, 28 June 2013, 09:34:55
Re-sleeved my Ath-ad500's with some violet mdpc-x and added a Rean 3.5mm plug.  Shortened the cable about a foot.  Doing my Ha-Rx500's tonight and am gonna shorten those about 4ft (cable is 10ft long). 

(Attachment Link)

Beautiful set of cans you got there!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Badwrench on Fri, 28 June 2013, 14:10:14
Re-sleeved my Ath-ad500's with some violet mdpc-x and added a Rean 3.5mm plug.  Shortened the cable about a foot.  Doing my Ha-Rx500's tonight and am gonna shorten those about 4ft (cable is 10ft long). 

(Attachment Link)

Beautiful set of cans you got there!

Thanks.  Now if I could just get someone to trade the purple grills from the 700's for my Silver grills, and I would be good to go.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: velvetdon25 on Fri, 19 July 2013, 02:07:53
Re-sleeved my Ath-ad500's with some violet mdpc-x and added a Rean 3.5mm plug.  Shortened the cable about a foot.  Doing my Ha-Rx500's tonight and am gonna shorten those about 4ft (cable is 10ft long). 

(Attachment Link)

Wooo. I would definitely like to get mine threaded and shortened like yours Badwrench  ;D

May I ask how you managed to shorten it?
Here's mine sitting on my lamp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jack Karneval on Fri, 19 July 2013, 07:05:21
Anybody know how to go about re-cabling a set of HD-555s?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Sat, 20 July 2013, 17:03:42
Anybody know how to go about re-cabling a set of HD-555s?
Look up how to disassemble them on youtube or head-fi. Should be pretty easy from there if you know how to recable already.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xSpartanCx on Sat, 20 July 2013, 20:00:28
Titanium HD to HD558s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Badwrench on Sun, 21 July 2013, 00:38:24
Re-sleeved my Ath-ad500's with some violet mdpc-x and added a Rean 3.5mm plug.  Shortened the cable about a foot.  Doing my Ha-Rx500's tonight and am gonna shorten those about 4ft (cable is 10ft long). 

(Attachment Link)

Wooo. I would definitely like to get mine threaded and shortened like yours Badwrench  ;D

May I ask how you managed to shorten it?
Here's mine sitting on my lamp.

It's not hard to do.  There are a few good tutorials on Youtube and Head-fi about changing out the jack.  Sleeving is pretty standard (google: Lutro Sleeving Tutorial  ;)).  I only took a couple feet off my AT's, but the HARX's I have lost at least 5 ft. 

Here is the best place to get the 3.5mm jack:  http://www.daleproaudio.com/c-671-35mm.aspx?ManID=214&pagesize=20&sortEntity=7 (http://www.daleproaudio.com/c-671-35mm.aspx?ManID=214&pagesize=20&sortEntity=7).  Any of the Stereo jacks will work fine. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ekruceal on Tue, 30 July 2013, 05:51:24
I own a pair of AKG K-702's, and Sony MDR-V6's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: compgeke on Tue, 30 July 2013, 15:51:23
My really super high end headphones!

(http://goput.it/nxv.jpg)

Honestly, I"ve had these 4 three years or so, the tape is to keep the wire in place so my right channel works, I've already cut and resoldered once, cable got another short. Not really going to bother again.  However, for $25 they sound pretty good, but I'm also driving them through a Kenwood KR-4070.

Anyone know if the ATH-M30 is any good?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 30 July 2013, 16:11:31
I have no idea on how the M30's sound, but in general I tend to steer away from fullsize headphones costing less than a Filco since cheaper IEM's are way better value for money at that pricepoint.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CalmB4tehPwn on Tue, 30 July 2013, 18:50:31
I'm thinking about recabling my ATH-AD900s. I love these things so much. Once they were broken in, they warmed up really nicely and I couldn't ask for a better set of headphones. Picked up a modmic for it as well, and I'd like to cable them together. I've just never done it before, so I'm concerned about getting started.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Wed, 07 August 2013, 22:25:32
I'm getting some Grado GS1000s on Saturday!  I'm so excited.  Now I have to look into some Amp/DAC combos.  I'm thinking a bifrost/asgard 2 combo. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GeekMark2 on Fri, 09 August 2013, 09:30:04
Anyone own some Sony headphones? ZX300 or maybe MDR- XB400? Just wondering what the sound is like...I need some new ones, but can't decide which ones to get!  :confused:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Thu, 22 August 2013, 17:58:33
Hey II saw the SoundMAGIC HP100 Headphones on Massdrop and I am very tempted and there seems to be a lot of good reviews on them but I am n00b with headphones and never had good ones so I would like to have some feedback on them. I would mainly use them with my computer either to watch videos, listen to music and play games.

 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 22 August 2013, 19:35:48
Hey II saw the SoundMAGIC HP100 Headphones on Massdrop and I am very tempted and there seems to be a lot of good reviews on them but I am n00b with headphones and never had good ones so I would like to have some feedback on them. I would mainly use them with my computer either to watch videos, listen to music and play games.

They're alright, but for the same price you can pick up the audio technica ATH-M50s, which are stellar, Grado SR80i, which are great, but less isolation being open back or Fostek t50RP
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 22 August 2013, 19:41:35
need IEM under 100 kthx

looking at Shure SE215, any other suggestions? I know this is the headphone thread but im a rebel and post where i want.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 22 August 2013, 19:42:59
need EIM under 100 kthx

looking at Shure SE215, any other suggestions? I know this is the headphone thread but im a rebel and post where i want.

Get them.  They're good, esp for that price
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keymaster on Thu, 22 August 2013, 19:51:06
Before I refer to a messy HiFi thread, I'm wondering if anyone here knows how do a cable mod on the ATH-M50. The thread on HiFi is a bit unorganize and unclear.

A link would be much appreciated.  (http://i.imgur.com/C6Ntob5.gif)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 22 August 2013, 19:53:46
Before I refer to a messy HiFi thread, I'm wondering if anyone here knows how do a cable mod on the ATH-M50. The thread on HiFi is a bit unorganize and unclear.

A link would be much appreciated. 
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/C6Ntob5.gif)


Have a video -
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keymaster on Thu, 22 August 2013, 19:59:12
Before I refer to a messy HiFi thread, I'm wondering if anyone here knows how do a cable mod on the ATH-M50. The thread on HiFi is a bit unorganize and unclear.

A link would be much appreciated. 
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/C6Ntob5.gif)


Have a video -

Thank you. It looks like there are many tutorials on youtube now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 23 August 2013, 03:59:39
I've spent way too long trying to find a new pair of headphones just for lols, but I think I'm going to pick up a pair of ath-a900x and probably a pair of mad dog t50rp (thanks to binge's audtion) and see where things fall.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Fri, 23 August 2013, 11:01:38
need IEM under 100 kthx

looking at Shure SE215, any other suggestions? I know this is the headphone thread but im a rebel and post where i want.
Klipsch X10 at slightly above, otherwise Hifiman he-400.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MTManiac on Fri, 23 August 2013, 11:19:25
ATH M50 with an E5 amp
nothing too crazy, but a great sound stage and I like it :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 23 August 2013, 13:51:34
I've spent way too long trying to find a new pair of headphones just for lols, but I think I'm going to pick up a pair of ath-a900x and probably a pair of mad dog t50rp (thanks to binge's audtion) and see where things fall.

No problem man.  Mr. Speakers has been more than open to communication so let him know if something is "amiss" with his tuning.  The output of those orthodynamic drivers are nothing to scoff at with his doctoring of the dampening materials and custom ear-cushions.  Serious bang for decent buck.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sat, 24 August 2013, 00:28:56
My wallet really hates me for this, but...

(http://s21.postimg.org/h32okx4vb/SRM_T1_1.jpg)

Gotta say, this stock-condition SR-Lambda is quite the improvement over the "beater" Lambda with rebuilt drivers I've had for the last two years.

I don't notice a dramatic improvement using the SRM-T1 in place of that receiver and the SRD-7/SB, but I suppose it's to be expected. The biggest changes in sound quality tend to happen with the headphones themselves, not the amps.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 24 August 2013, 02:03:48
My wallet really hates me for this, but...

Show Image
(http://s21.postimg.org/h32okx4vb/SRM_T1_1.jpg)


Gotta say, this stock-condition SR-Lambda is quite the improvement over the "beater" Lambda with rebuilt drivers I've had for the last two years.

I don't notice a dramatic improvement using the SRM-T1 in place of that receiver and the SRD-7/SB, but I suppose it's to be expected. The biggest changes in sound quality tend to happen with the headphones themselves, not the amps.

Ohh that's a nice electrostatic Stax setup there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tobr1an on Tue, 27 August 2013, 20:47:59
What do you guys think of the HE400 on massdrop?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 27 August 2013, 20:52:33
If you can't afford the (in my view) better deal on the he-500, get them.

I'm in for the he-500 because of the $120 off.  I'll probably sell my he-400 to help pay for them later
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Wed, 28 August 2013, 00:25:42
My wallet really hates me for this, but...

Show Image
(http://s21.postimg.org/h32okx4vb/SRM_T1_1.jpg)


Gotta say, this stock-condition SR-Lambda is quite the improvement over the "beater" Lambda with rebuilt drivers I've had for the last two years.

I don't notice a dramatic improvement using the SRM-T1 in place of that receiver and the SRD-7/SB, but I suppose it's to be expected. The biggest changes in sound quality tend to happen with the headphones themselves, not the amps.

My friend picked up a pair of those plus amp at a garage sale for $6.  I hate him.   :))
Though now I have Sennheiser HD600s which are slightly better overall.  I still payed way more than $6 for them though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Wed, 28 August 2013, 00:29:20
I auditioned the HE-400 before and even though I loved the sound but I couldn't keep them because of their weight. But I wear my headphones atleast 4 hours at a time thats why I need lighter phones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Wed, 28 August 2013, 22:12:13
My wallet really hates me for this, but...

Show Image
(http://s21.postimg.org/h32okx4vb/SRM_T1_1.jpg)


Gotta say, this stock-condition SR-Lambda is quite the improvement over the "beater" Lambda with rebuilt drivers I've had for the last two years.

I don't notice a dramatic improvement using the SRM-T1 in place of that receiver and the SRD-7/SB, but I suppose it's to be expected. The biggest changes in sound quality tend to happen with the headphones themselves, not the amps.

My friend picked up a pair of those plus amp at a garage sale for $6.  I hate him.   :))
Though now I have Sennheiser HD600s which are slightly better overall.  I still payed way more than $6 for them though.
An entire Stax system-with direct-drive amp-for $6? Lucky son of a...

As for the HD600s being better, I'm quite skeptical of that claim, but a lot of this stuff's down to personal preference...plus I've never heard an HD600. Or any other Sennheiser set, for that matter. (But I'd love to audition that modified Unipolar 2000 set that's got a Head-Fi thread, along with the famed Orpheus systems.)

All I know is that I didn't like the HE-400 or SR-202 all that much by comparison due to their inferior midrange reproduction. I don't like my vocals raspy and recessed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 28 August 2013, 22:27:54
I got two of the four pair of headphones I wanted to audition today.

ATH-A900x - A nice sound with a good, warm, curve to them.  My big head takes to the slightly loose feeling fit alright as they don't shimmy around as much as it feels like they should.  Overall, a good isolation to them as well, but it feels like it's wanting more power than I have at this moment. (I have a Schiit Asgard 2 on the way to pair with the X3 I got on Massdrop earlier this month)

AKG K701 - No question that these are some of the most detailed speakers I've put over my ears.  I'd go so far as to say they're within the realm of my JH13pros, but they're being repaired so I can't do a direct A/B currently.  As far as signature goes, they're a little brighter than the ATH with a nice initial bass hit, but there's no resonance (which I like a lot).  They're comfortable as well, but maybe not the same kind of comfort I've had in headphones before.  They definitely want more power than I have available right now and they're the main reason I decided to get a headphone amp and specifically the one I chose, so that opinion may change in a month or so when I get the amp up and running.

I'll post more once I get my jh13s back from repair, my grado sr225i finished with the cup mods I'm doing and also when I have the HE400s and HE500s as well.

I plan to only keep 3 pair of the 6 I have or will have, so expect the ones I decide I can live without to pop up here for sale at a good price around October - November.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 28 August 2013, 23:34:03
AKG K702: Absolutely awesome headphones! I'm only pushing sound out of a Creative Fatal1ty card. Not the best sound output but it works for now.

Sony MDR-V6: For only $75 I've been impressed with this set. They have good range while still keeping a solid base. A good starter headphone for anyone. My only gripe about this set is they get a little sweaty after an hour of use.

Next in line I am hoping to get a pair of Sennheiser HD650's. If I can find them for the right price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 28 August 2013, 23:41:25
AKG K702: Absolutely awesome headphones! I'm only pushing sound out of a Creative Fatal1ty card. Not the best sound output but it works for now.

Sony MDR-V6: For only $75 I've been impressed with this set. They have good range while still keeping a solid base. A good starter headphone for anyone. My only gripe about this set is they get a little sweaty after an hour of use.

Next in line I am hoping to get a pair of Sennheiser HD650's. If I can find them for the right price.

The k701 and 702 are real similar.  I love the detail of mine, but yeah, it wants a lot of power, but I hear the Asgard 2 gives it all it needs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Wed, 28 August 2013, 23:47:48
HE-400 on massdrop? Where?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 29 August 2013, 00:01:58
HE-400 on massdrop? Where?

You missed out, they sold out in less than an hour last night.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Thu, 29 August 2013, 00:24:15
How was the pricing?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 29 August 2013, 01:21:30
Good, the he400 were $330 and the he500 were $580 (the better deal IMO)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 29 August 2013, 03:18:36
My wallet really hates me for this, but...

Show Image
(http://s21.postimg.org/h32okx4vb/SRM_T1_1.jpg)


Gotta say, this stock-condition SR-Lambda is quite the improvement over the "beater" Lambda with rebuilt drivers I've had for the last two years.

I don't notice a dramatic improvement using the SRM-T1 in place of that receiver and the SRD-7/SB, but I suppose it's to be expected. The biggest changes in sound quality tend to happen with the headphones themselves, not the amps.

My friend picked up a pair of those plus amp at a garage sale for $6.  I hate him.   :))
Though now I have Sennheiser HD600s which are slightly better overall.  I still payed way more than $6 for them though.
An entire Stax system-with direct-drive amp-for $6? Lucky son of a...

As for the HD600s being better, I'm quite skeptical of that claim, but a lot of this stuff's down to personal preference...plus I've never heard an HD600. Or any other Sennheiser set, for that matter. (But I'd love to audition that modified Unipolar 2000 set that's got a Head-Fi thread, along with the famed Orpheus systems.)

All I know is that I didn't like the HE-400 or SR-202 all that much by comparison due to their inferior midrange reproduction. I don't like my vocals raspy and recessed.

Yep.  The Sennheiser HD600 is better than any other full sized headphones around the same price.  The SR-Lambda has better transparency and speed, but has very weak bass presence compared to the HD600.  I went on a quest a few years ago to find the best affordable headphone and spent $1k + on headphones A-Bing them along with a sound engineer, and I'm quite sure of what I heard.  We both concluded that while the HD600 isn't the best in class for anything in particular, they're excellent in that they don't have any problems that the other headphones had, such as Beyerdynamics having a spike in the frequency response in the 8-8.5 kHz range, which is responsible for overemphasizing the 's' sound and producing too much sibilance.  I haven't tried any planarmagnetic headphones though, so I can't compare any of those.  I point everyone to this thread: http://www.head-fi.org/t/634201/battle-of-the-flagships-58-headphones-compared-update-audeze-lcd-2-revision-2-6-4-13 (http://www.head-fi.org/t/634201/battle-of-the-flagships-58-headphones-compared-update-audeze-lcd-2-revision-2-6-4-13) because I agree 100% with all the reviews of all the headphones I've listened to, including the order he ranked them in.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: damorgue on Thu, 29 August 2013, 03:28:40
Yay, the parts to my o2+odac have arrived. Damn it looks fine. It was smaller than I thought though, which I suppose isn't a bad thing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 29 August 2013, 04:43:01
My wallet really hates me for this, but...

Show Image
(http://s21.postimg.org/h32okx4vb/SRM_T1_1.jpg)


Gotta say, this stock-condition SR-Lambda is quite the improvement over the "beater" Lambda with rebuilt drivers I've had for the last two years.

I don't notice a dramatic improvement using the SRM-T1 in place of that receiver and the SRD-7/SB, but I suppose it's to be expected. The biggest changes in sound quality tend to happen with the headphones themselves, not the amps.

My friend picked up a pair of those plus amp at a garage sale for $6.  I hate him.   :))
Though now I have Sennheiser HD600s which are slightly better overall.  I still payed way more than $6 for them though.
An entire Stax system-with direct-drive amp-for $6? Lucky son of a...

As for the HD600s being better, I'm quite skeptical of that claim, but a lot of this stuff's down to personal preference...plus I've never heard an HD600. Or any other Sennheiser set, for that matter. (But I'd love to audition that modified Unipolar 2000 set that's got a Head-Fi thread, along with the famed Orpheus systems.)

All I know is that I didn't like the HE-400 or SR-202 all that much by comparison due to their inferior midrange reproduction. I don't like my vocals raspy and recessed.

Yep.  The Sennheiser HD600 is better than any other full sized headphones around the same price.  The SR-Lambda has better transparency and speed, but has very weak bass presence compared to the HD600.  I went on a quest a few years ago to find the best affordable headphone and spent $1k + on headphones A-Bing them along with a sound engineer, and I'm quite sure of what I heard.  We both concluded that while the HD600 isn't the best in class for anything in particular, they're excellent in that they don't have any problems that the other headphones had, such as Beyerdynamics having a spike in the frequency response in the 8-8.5 kHz range, which is responsible for overemphasizing the 's' sound and producing too much sibilance.  I haven't tried any planarmagnetic headphones though, so I can't compare any of those.  I point everyone to this thread: http://www.head-fi.org/t/634201/battle-of-the-flagships-58-headphones-compared-update-audeze-lcd-2-revision-2-6-4-13 (http://www.head-fi.org/t/634201/battle-of-the-flagships-58-headphones-compared-update-audeze-lcd-2-revision-2-6-4-13) because I agree 100% with all the reviews of all the headphones I've listened to, including the order he ranked them in.
Tbh I prefer the Fidelio X1 over the HD600
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 29 August 2013, 04:43:28
Yay, the parts to my o2+odac have arrived. Damn it looks fine. It was smaller than I thought though, which I suppose isn't a bad thing.
I have the combo and I like it a lot.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Thu, 29 August 2013, 12:04:45
 I kind of have a headphone fetish.

I currently own a pair of Shure e2, e3, e5 and se215K's (for the gym)

Those are the in ears. For studio work I own a pair of AKG K551 and K702's. For office work I use a pair of Urbanears Zinken.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Thimplum on Thu, 29 August 2013, 12:17:41
*pops knuckes*

It's time for me to put you guys to shame.

I'm using my motherboard's onboard audio, with a pair of audio-technica ATH-M20s. The plastic inside the headband has snapped and the right side started falling out, so now they're duct taped.



#LIKEABOSS
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Feign on Thu, 29 August 2013, 12:26:34
I kind of have a headphone fetish.

I currently own a pair of Shure e2, e3, e5 and se215K's (for the gym)

Those are the in ears. For studio work I own a pair of AKG K551 and K702's. For office work I use a pair of Urbanears Zinken.

I have AKG k701s which i believe are essentially identical to the k702s. I have been looking at getting the k550s. Do you think it would be worth it? How do they compare? It'd be nice to have the same sound quality with the benefits of closed  system and better build quality. Any comfort issues?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 29 August 2013, 12:39:36
*pops knuckes*

It's time for me to put you guys to shame.

I'm using my motherboard's onboard audio, with a pair of audio-technica ATH-M20s. The plastic inside the headband has snapped and the right side started falling out, so now they're duct taped.

#LIKEABOSS

Riggin at it's best. Saves money for more keyboards or keyboard accessories!!!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: damorgue on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:35:15
Yay, the parts to my o2+odac have arrived. Damn it looks fine. It was smaller than I thought though, which I suppose isn't a bad thing.
I have the combo and I like it a lot.

Finished it just now. I am comparing to my old Essence STX atm, which I intend to sell shortly.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:37:56
what's great about the O2 is that it's not picky like many high end amps, and can make almost any set of cans sound better.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:38:53
AKG K702: Absolutely awesome headphones! I'm only pushing sound out of a Creative Fatal1ty card. Not the best sound output but it works for now.

Sony MDR-V6: For only $75 I've been impressed with this set. They have good range while still keeping a solid base. A good starter headphone for anyone. My only gripe about this set is they get a little sweaty after an hour of use.

Next in line I am hoping to get a pair of Sennheiser HD650's. If I can find them for the right price.

MDR-V6 - First mod to make on this headset is to use a velour replacement pads.  Super easy, super comfy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:42:23
what's great about the O2 is that it's not picky like many high end amps, and can make almost any set of cans sound better.
Well it's a clean source of power atleast, not all headphones benefit that much from power.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:45:43
AKG K702: Absolutely awesome headphones! I'm only pushing sound out of a Creative Fatal1ty card. Not the best sound output but it works for now.

Sony MDR-V6: For only $75 I've been impressed with this set. They have good range while still keeping a solid base. A good starter headphone for anyone. My only gripe about this set is they get a little sweaty after an hour of use.

Next in line I am hoping to get a pair of Sennheiser HD650's. If I can find them for the right price.

MDR-V6 - First mod to make on this headset is to use a velour replacement pads.  Super easy, super comfy.

Good to know....I'll have to google that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:51:39
Got my cheap HE400s in the mail today and I've been listening to them for the entirety of the time I've opened the box (~3 hours).  I don't have any amplified power for them, but even with my SGS4, the clarity, impact and overall signature are fantastic.  Right now, they're my favorite headphone (again, that will probably change when I get my jh13s back to do an A/B).  Whenever I can make a decision on an amp (leaning Asgard 2), I plan to redemo everything to see how amplification changes my opinions. 

I've heard that the k701 responds well to power and gets a little more umph to the low end to go along with the great detail, so I'm excited to keep on with this.  I do think the first casulty in my headphone war is going to be the ath-a900x, though.  It's lacking a bit of detail in comparison to the others and while more impacting unamped in comparison to the akg and louder unamped than the he400s, the sound is a lot brighter and harsh than I remember after listening to them in direct comparison with the he400s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:55:49
I order my first pair of better quality headphones on massdrop (soundmagic HP100). Can't wait to try something worth more than 20$.

Then I will have the hard choice to decide if I should ask an amp and or dac for Xmas  :rolleyes:

I have been looking at the O2 and it seems quite nice for the price, but I am confused on how much adding the ODAC to it would change that much. Anyone know how much of a difference the o2 + odac would make versus a simple o2?

Anyway, quite excited!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: damorgue on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:57:33
I have been looking at the O2 and it seems quite nice for the price, but I am confused on how much adding the ODAC to it would change that much. Anyone know how much of a difference the o2 + odac would make versus a simple o2?

How big of difference it would make depends on what DAC you would otherwise be using if you didn't use the Objective DAC.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:58:18
I order my first pair of better quality headphones on massdrop (soundmagic HP100). Can't wait to try something worth more than 20$.

Then I will have the hard choice to decide if I should ask an amp and or dac for Xmas  :rolleyes:

I have been looking at the O2 and it seems quite nice for the price, but I am confused on how much adding the ODAC to it would change that much. Anyone know how much of a difference the o2 + odac would make versus a simple o2?

Anyway, quite excited!
Depends on your source, might be huge upgrade or very small.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 29 August 2013, 14:59:29
As another note, if you wanted something that looked better as a stack (assuming you didn't want to DIY) and is a little cheaper overall, look at the magni/modi amp/dac stack from Schiit.  If I didn't have the x3 and IEMs, I'd have already got that instead of waffling about the extra price for the asgard 2 (it has a basic gain control).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Thu, 29 August 2013, 15:01:53
Well right now I plug my headphones directly in my motherboard either on my pc at home or laptop at job. I suppose a DAC would have a significant impact, but it's hard to tell having never tried anything good before.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: damorgue on Thu, 29 August 2013, 15:02:34
(http://i.imgur.com/FX7gIui.jpg)

Freshly built
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 29 August 2013, 15:06:28
tj I would love to know your feelings on the maddog vs the HD400s.

 :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Thimplum on Thu, 29 August 2013, 15:28:50
*pops knuckes*

It's time for me to put you guys to shame.

I'm using my motherboard's onboard audio, with a pair of audio-technica ATH-M20s. The plastic inside the headband has snapped and the right side started falling out, so now they're duct taped.

#LIKEABOSS

Riggin at it's best. Saves money for more keyboards or keyboard accessories!!!

haha

I don't have the money for better headphones. All of mine is spoken for by some other members of this forum *cough*AcidFire*cough*
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 29 August 2013, 16:53:44
tj I would love to know your feelings on the maddog vs the HD400s.

 :thumb:

From the little I've sat down with the maddogs, I'd say I know I like the isolation more. I think comfort is effectively equal and from what I remember about the actual sound, they're similar as well.  I may sell the akg and ath and pick up a pair of mad dogs with the new alpha pads to compare while I wait for my he500s.  I want to hear the k701s amped though as I've heard good things about that.  So who knows what will happen really.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 29 August 2013, 18:11:44
Sort of excited to see you journey through these.  I want to get another set of nice headphones at some point just to add to the mix.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: omegatony on Thu, 29 August 2013, 18:53:02
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FX7gIui.jpg)


Freshly built

What are you pairing the o2 with?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Thu, 29 August 2013, 18:54:08
I'm so excited. I got a pair of grado gs1000 headphones and I'm just waiting for my wa7 amp to come in before I get to use them! I'm counting the days!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 29 August 2013, 19:16:43
I'm so excited. I got a pair of grado gs1000 headphones and I'm just waiting for my wa7 amp to come in before I get to use them! I'm counting the days!

Those are great TotL headphones.

I'm excited to get back into it a bit, too.  I'm fairly certain I'm going to swell my collection and then narrow it back to 2 - 3, but I'm enjoying the experience.

I'm also debating getting a desktop amp that can drive all my stuff (so something with easy gain control) or use my x3 for IEMs and get a desktop set up solely for my larger cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Thu, 29 August 2013, 22:08:31
I'm so excited. I got a pair of grado gs1000 headphones and I'm just waiting for my wa7 amp to come in before I get to use them! I'm counting the days!

Those are great TotL headphones.

I'm excited to get back into it a bit, too.  I'm fairly certain I'm going to swell my collection and then narrow it back to 2 - 3, but I'm enjoying the experience.

I'm also debating getting a desktop amp that can drive all my stuff (so something with easy gain control) or use my x3 for IEMs and get a desktop set up solely for my larger cans.

Well if you're looking to me to dissuade you from it don't count on it! I think you should grow your collection without end! I was debating whether to get a schiit stack but decided on an all-in-one dac/amp combo. Plus the woo audio stuff is gorgeous! And I've heard great things about their quality.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: damorgue on Thu, 29 August 2013, 23:32:58
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FX7gIui.jpg)


Freshly built

What are you pairing the o2+odac with?

Some old worn out Sennheisers. I can't find replacement pads for them either. Looking to upgrade those as well though, probably to some AKG's since I liked the ones I tried at a friend place.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 29 August 2013, 23:35:10
I'm so excited. I got a pair of grado gs1000 headphones and I'm just waiting for my wa7 amp to come in before I get to use them! I'm counting the days!

Those are great TotL headphones.

I'm excited to get back into it a bit, too.  I'm fairly certain I'm going to swell my collection and then narrow it back to 2 - 3, but I'm enjoying the experience.

I'm also debating getting a desktop amp that can drive all my stuff (so something with easy gain control) or use my x3 for IEMs and get a desktop set up solely for my larger cans.

Well if you're looking to me to dissuade you from it don't count on it! I think you should grow your collection without end! I was debating whether to get a schiit stack but decided on an all-in-one dac/amp combo. Plus the woo audio stuff is gorgeous! And I've heard great things about their quality.

Nah, no dissuasion needed.  I'm fairly sure I'll just get the asgard 2, it looks like it'll push he500s and hd600s better than the small stack
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheeCOoon on Thu, 29 August 2013, 23:35:35
Use Koss Portapro and Disel Vektr just for show =)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 29 August 2013, 23:36:19
Use Koss Portapro and Disel Vektr just for show =)

I've heard good things about those Koss in that they can punch well above their price would indicate
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheeCOoon on Thu, 29 August 2013, 23:41:00
Use Koss Portapro and Disel Vektr just for show =)

I've heard good things about those Koss in that they can punch well above their price would indicate

Yea thats true. Koss cost around 50ish dollars i think and i have monster vektrs which are 100+. The sound is almost similar vektrs have a bit more bass but thats it lol. I had the Koss for 3 years now and it is still in perfect condition =). FYI i suck at maintaining headphones and earbuds lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Fri, 30 August 2013, 01:28:08
I'm so excited. I got a pair of grado gs1000 headphones and I'm just waiting for my wa7 amp to come in before I get to use them! I'm counting the days!

Those are great TotL headphones.

I'm excited to get back into it a bit, too.  I'm fairly certain I'm going to swell my collection and then narrow it back to 2 - 3, but I'm enjoying the experience.

I'm also debating getting a desktop amp that can drive all my stuff (so something with easy gain control) or use my x3 for IEMs and get a desktop set up solely for my larger cans.

Well if you're looking to me to dissuade you from it don't count on it! I think you should grow your collection without end! I was debating whether to get a schiit stack but decided on an all-in-one dac/amp combo. Plus the woo audio stuff is gorgeous! And I've heard great things about their quality.

Nah, no dissuasion needed.  I'm fairly sure I'll just get the asgard 2, it looks like it'll push he500s and hd600s better than the small stack

I was going to get a lyr/bifrost stack but eventually decided on just the fireflies. I have a thing for tube amps  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vasouv on Fri, 30 August 2013, 02:07:09
I have the AKG K240 MKII. I got them because I wanted a good way to record my guitar and bass.

The sound is absolutely brilliant, both in recording instruments and in music/movies/games etc. I haven't used them in a looooong time though, got to start recording again :P

As a USB interface I use an EMU0202 which is absolutely CRAP! It gets the job done but it crashes every so often and it doesn't have proper Win7 drivers, it has a beta version from some years ago.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Fri, 30 August 2013, 08:14:22
I kind of have a headphone fetish.

I currently own a pair of Shure e2, e3, e5 and se215K's (for the gym)

Those are the in ears. For studio work I own a pair of AKG K551 and K702's. For office work I use a pair of Urbanears Zinken.

I have AKG k701s which i believe are essentially identical to the k702s. I have been looking at getting the k550s. Do you think it would be worth it? How do they compare? It'd be nice to have the same sound quality with the benefits of closed  system and better build quality. Any comfort issues?

I say go for it, no comfort issues whatsoever. Like soft pillows giving glorious, clear sound.

And yeah K701's are pretty much identical to the K702's. Great headphones. AKG is just supreme. I have a model from the 80's which my brother gave to me years ago, and the thing still works.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 01 September 2013, 04:59:35
So as to not clutter this up further, I created a DAC/amp thread for us to discuss that in.  Topics include personal preferences, what you use and suggestions based on experience and research.  Topics don't include Objective stuff for the most part (sorry, it's explained in thread though)

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=47925.0#new
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Sun, 01 September 2013, 06:19:27
I kind of have a headphone fetish.

I currently own a pair of Shure e2, e3, e5 and se215K's (for the gym)

Those are the in ears. For studio work I own a pair of AKG K551 and K702's. For office work I use a pair of Urbanears Zinken.

I have AKG k701s which i believe are essentially identical to the k702s. I have been looking at getting the k550s. Do you think it would be worth it? How do they compare? It'd be nice to have the same sound quality with the benefits of closed  system and better build quality. Any comfort issues?

I say go for it, no comfort issues whatsoever. Like soft pillows giving glorious, clear sound.

And yeah K701's are pretty much identical to the K702's. Great headphones. AKG is just supreme. I have a model from the 80's which my brother gave to me years ago, and the thing still works.

what comes to the 701s, the band that has "cushions", **** that. My scalp has been practically molded into the same shape. I think I should take a knife and remove them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sun, 01 September 2013, 06:45:18
I'm so excited. I got a pair of grado gs1000 headphones and I'm just waiting for my wa7 amp to come in before I get to use them! I'm counting the days!

Those are great TotL headphones.

I'm excited to get back into it a bit, too.  I'm fairly certain I'm going to swell my collection and then narrow it back to 2 - 3, but I'm enjoying the experience.

I'm also debating getting a desktop amp that can drive all my stuff (so something with easy gain control) or use my x3 for IEMs and get a desktop set up solely for my larger cans.

Well if you're looking to me to dissuade you from it don't count on it! I think you should grow your collection without end! I was debating whether to get a schiit stack but decided on an all-in-one dac/amp combo. Plus the woo audio stuff is gorgeous! And I've heard great things about their quality.

Nah, no dissuasion needed.  I'm fairly sure I'll just get the asgard 2, it looks like it'll push he500s and hd600s better than the small stack

I was going to get a lyr/bifrost stack but eventually decided on just the fireflies. I have a thing for tube amps  ;D

The Lyr is a tube hybrid which basically means you get a good bit of the detail and color you would from a tube amp with the added benefit of price and transparency. A really decent sounding tube amp will cost you a bundle, but a hybrid amp can be had for a fraction of the cost and outshine most solid state amps at the same price range for varied impedance headphones. Or ya know, get both  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Sun, 01 September 2013, 11:28:31
I kind of have a headphone fetish.

I currently own a pair of Shure e2, e3, e5 and se215K's (for the gym)

Those are the in ears. For studio work I own a pair of AKG K551 and K702's. For office work I use a pair of Urbanears Zinken.

I have AKG k701s which i believe are essentially identical to the k702s. I have been looking at getting the k550s. Do you think it would be worth it? How do they compare? It'd be nice to have the same sound quality with the benefits of closed  system and better build quality. Any comfort issues?

I say go for it, no comfort issues whatsoever. Like soft pillows giving glorious, clear sound.

And yeah K701's are pretty much identical to the K702's. Great headphones. AKG is just supreme. I have a model from the 80's which my brother gave to me years ago, and the thing still works.

what comes to the 701s, the band that has "cushions", **** that. My scalp has been practically molded into the same shape. I think I should take a knife and remove them.

lol yeah. If you're going to be more comfortable just get rid of them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 01 September 2013, 17:09:09
Before I list these on ebay, is anyone interested in a pair of ATH-A900X for $100 plus shipping?  No box, but comes with the screw on 1/4" adaptor


AKG K701s for $180 plus shipping for sale, too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheFlyingRaccoon on Mon, 02 September 2013, 02:00:56
I guess this would be the appropriate thread to post the O2 I built!
(http://i.imgur.com/8Q5yQ1K.jpg)
Currently using it with my Beyer DT 770 250 ohmn cans. I don't have a DAC yet but I'm looking for one.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Mon, 02 September 2013, 02:05:03
I guess this would be the appropriate thread to post the O2 I built!
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8Q5yQ1K.jpg)

Currently using it with my Beyer DT 770 250 ohmn cans. I don't have a DAC yet but I'm looking for one.

It's gorgeous! Congrats on the beautiful O2! I'm just waiting for my woo amp to get in on Tuesday!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheFlyingRaccoon on Mon, 02 September 2013, 02:10:28
It's gorgeous! Congrats on the beautiful O2! I'm just waiting for my woo amp to get in on Tuesday!

Wow, congratulations on the Woo amp! Those were extremely out of my budget :)) Building this O2 only set me back like $60
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 02 September 2013, 02:31:45
It's ok, but see the new amp/dac thread for the best place
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Masterchief79 on Mon, 02 September 2013, 05:16:05
Little Update, maybe someone remembers, my AKG 701 were defective and I had to send them back. Then, I ordered a Philips Fidelio X1, a Beyerdynamic DT880 and a Sennheiser HD600 + a Fiio E10 DAC to test them and find the headphones which suit me the most.
After 3 weeks of testing and comparing: Just packed the X1 and DT880 to send them back. The HD600's don't just have the better sound (I love the stage), they are also a lot handier on the go whereas the other two are rather Home-Hifi-Headphones. So I'm gonna stay with the HD600 and Fiio E10. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 02 September 2013, 12:46:24
Little Update, maybe someone remembers, my AKG 701 were defective and I had to send them back. Then, I ordered a Philips Fidelio X1, a Beyerdynamic DT880 and a Sennheiser HD600 + a Fiio E10 DAC to test them and find the headphones which suit me the most.
After 3 weeks of testing and comparing: Just packed the X1 and DT880 to send them back. The HD600's don't just have the better sound (I love the stage), they are also a lot handier on the go whereas the other two are rather Home-Hifi-Headphones. So I'm gonna stay with the HD600 and Fiio E10. :)

Interesting.  I'm debating trying the hd600 or hd598 (I hear the latter is more "fun") once I sell the ath and akg that I've got on ebay.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 02 September 2013, 15:10:16
I've been looking at the Sennheiser high ends for quite some time now. Glad to know somebody out there really enjoys them. I'll most likely be getting the HD600 once I can sell off my AKG K702 and some keyboards.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 02 September 2013, 15:10:29
I've been looking at the Sennheiser high ends for quite some time now. Glad to know somebody out there really enjoys them. I'll most likely be getting the HD600 once I can sell off my AKG K702 and some keyboards.

Oops...double post. It won't let me delete it though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Mon, 02 September 2013, 22:09:18
For the past few days, I've been putting the Sony MDR-MA900 through its paces...like I needed more headphones around here.

They're surprisingly good for a $150 headphone. Not better than my vintage SR-Lambda setup (lacks the transparency, and the treble's rather subdued), but I'd take them over the HE-400 and SR-202 any day. They may even be "good enough" for me to keep around if financial issues demand that I start selling off my Stax equipment.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pandather on Mon, 02 September 2013, 23:43:56
I've been running my HA-S500z for about a year now...  I love them!  I had HD.659s which I returned for alpha dogs, which I then went to a meet, returned those, and instantly bought the HE400 off a local HF member which are my favorite for the price by  far. (wanna try Grado though :|).  I eventually sold them for a nice subwoofer once I moved to speakers though!  but I never feel I'm missing much with the S500z ever, it's an amazing can!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Tue, 03 September 2013, 00:21:37
Hiyo guys! So I just recently started a part-time job which will require me to wear a pair of headphones all day, and while my work needs don't require something nice, I'm planning on buying myself a nice pair (under $160) while I'm at it. I've never really owned a nice pair of headphones and would like something that is portable while also being well-rounded for music AND movies. Something to keep in mind is that I will be using these for movies as much as I'll be using them for music.

One of the pairs I'm looking at is the Audio Technica ATH-M50. If I was getting a pair for purely music, I wouldn't hesitate to pick up a pair of ATH-M50's (I realize they have great clarity for music) but I have been reading that they do not have much soundstage and are very flat, which kind of makes me pull back a bit because even though these characteristics may be perfect for just music, I'll be watching a lot of movies with too. I honestly don't know too well if this even matters. It would be great if someone could give me some feedback from personal experience with these, and also their opinions on soundstage and their effect on movies and tv shows.

The other two pairs I've been looking at are the Sol Republic Tracks HD (cheaper than $100) and the Sol Republic Master Tracks. Please don't pick up your pitch forks :)) ... Lol! From the little research I have done, the Sol Republics have a stronger bass (no, I'm not a bass head) and have a much larger soundstage than the ATH-M50's. I realize some may say that the bass will drown everything else out, and please do tell me so if that is truly the case. However, from what I've read the Tracks HD and Master Tracks models have been designed to provide strong bass and a large soundstage while still trying to maintain crisp mids and highs. This makes me to believe that this will make them appropriate for a casual like me who will use them for a multipurpose. I realize that the Tracks HD and the Master Tracks are in different categories in that the Master Tracks are of a higher tier but I state these two in case that one may be more suited for me than the other. More expensive doesn't necessarily mean better, right? Also, I won't deny that I like how they look, and I like how they're modular which allows for customization  :-[ They are also both cheaper than the ATH-M50.

If there are any other recommendations you guys are willing to give me, please do. Just please keep in mind my budget is about under $160 :P Thanks for reading! I hope you guys can help! I would be very grateful :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 03 September 2013, 02:03:41
How important is isolation?

If it's very important...hmmm, I know the Philips CitiScape Uptown's a safe bet for a very isolating headphone with decent sound quality, if you don't mind a soundstage with no depth and a volume slider notorious for imbalance. They should be around $65 or less, well under your budget. If you can't find 'em that cheap, I can help with that...

If isolation isn't important, then I'll just say Sony MDR-MA900 and be done with it. Treble's a bit diluted, but you can EQ it back into line; that's about the only flaw I can really think of for the price point. They're selling on eBay for about $155 shipped, so they'd run into the very limits of your budget.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 03 September 2013, 05:13:42
I would say get the M-50 over any SoL product, though I may be a little biased but the SoLs I heard were not that good imo.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AndyCapets on Tue, 03 September 2013, 06:30:11
Here's my baby, probably the best thing I bought 2 years ago.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Tue, 03 September 2013, 06:32:50
If isolation isn't an issue I'd recommend grado sr60s, they may not look pretty but damn they're fine
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vun on Tue, 03 September 2013, 06:35:33
If isolation isn't an issue I'd recommend grado sr60s, they may not look pretty but damn they're fine

Might just be me, but I think Grados look fantastic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AndyCapets on Tue, 03 September 2013, 06:43:15
If isolation isn't an issue I'd recommend grado sr60s, they may not look pretty but damn they're fine

Might just be me, but I think Grados look fantastic.
Don't worry, you're not alone, the retro look makes the beauty of these heaphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 03 September 2013, 06:44:52
Grados are like DSA retro of headphones, stylistic but terribly out of style.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Tue, 03 September 2013, 07:07:21
Grados are like DSA retro of headphones, stylistic but terribly out of style.

Well they're not that ugly, they look like the probes on frankensteins monsters temples.

E: and even tho theyre not closed headphones they do cancel out outside world relatively well. I even used them at a lan :3
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Tue, 03 September 2013, 12:49:59
Grados have small sound stage.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 03 September 2013, 13:22:27
Hiyo guys! So I just recently started a part-time job which will require me to wear a pair of headphones all day, and while my work needs don't require something nice, I'm planning on buying myself a nice pair (under $160) while I'm at it. I've never really owned a nice pair of headphones and would like something that is portable while also being well-rounded for music AND movies. Something to keep in mind is that I will be using these for movies as much as I'll be using them for music.

One of the pairs I'm looking at is the Audio Technica ATH-M50. If I was getting a pair for purely music, I wouldn't hesitate to pick up a pair of ATH-M50's (I realize they have great clarity for music) but I have been reading that they do not have much soundstage and are very flat, which kind of makes me pull back a bit because even though these characteristics may be perfect for just music, I'll be watching a lot of movies with too. I honestly don't know too well if this even matters. It would be great if someone could give me some feedback from personal experience with these, and also their opinions on soundstage and their effect on movies and tv shows.

The other two pairs I've been looking at are the Sol Republic Tracks HD (cheaper than $100) and the Sol Republic Master Tracks. Please don't pick up your pitch forks :)) ... Lol! From the little research I have done, the Sol Republics have a stronger bass (no, I'm not a bass head) and have a much larger soundstage than the ATH-M50's. I realize some may say that the bass will drown everything else out, and please do tell me so if that is truly the case. However, from what I've read the Tracks HD and Master Tracks models have been designed to provide strong bass and a large soundstage while still trying to maintain crisp mids and highs. This makes me to believe that this will make them appropriate for a casual like me who will use them for a multipurpose. I realize that the Tracks HD and the Master Tracks are in different categories in that the Master Tracks are of a higher tier but I state these two in case that one may be more suited for me than the other. More expensive doesn't necessarily mean better, right? Also, I won't deny that I like how they look, and I like how they're modular which allows for customization  :-[ They are also both cheaper than the ATH-M50.

If there are any other recommendations you guys are willing to give me, please do. Just please keep in mind my budget is about under $160 :P Thanks for reading! I hope you guys can help! I would be very grateful :D

Well, how about a pair of slightly used (and sadly boxless), ATH-A900x for $120 shipped?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Tue, 03 September 2013, 13:57:39
Grados have small sound stage.

Perhaps, but sr60s are just fine as they are, no need for amps, dacs or doohickeys. And the price is reasonable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Tue, 03 September 2013, 14:08:28
They're considered uncomfortable, unless you mod them.
They have small sound stage and very weak bass.
Their cable is prone to twisting.
Their sound signature isn't really suitable for anything but rock and metal music, maybe acoustic as well.

I mean, I love them, but only for rock/metal and modded (detachable cable, different earpads, padded headband).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 September 2013, 14:35:02
What are good headphones for rap/electro/dnb basically stuff that is bass heavy?

Easy to mod as I'd like them to be modded with a detachable cable at some point. Not crazy expensive either. I currently own a pair of m50s and while they are awesome I can't use them for long as they are a bit tight and can get sweaty.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Winther on Tue, 03 September 2013, 14:49:04
What are good headphones for rap/electro/dnb basically stuff that is bass heavy?

Easy to mod as I'd like them to be modded with a detachable cable at some point. Not crazy expensive either. I currently own a pair of m50s and while they are awesome I can't use them for long as they are a bit tight and can get sweaty.

I dont know too much about the sound, but I know that a pair of (used) hd600 are really comfortable and the sound is great, not specifically bass-heavy in my opinion, but well rounded!

These are my HD600, I really like them, havent used them too much yet, still ned to get my DAC working properly. The stand is home-made..

(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-01FTWcsIUTo/UiY8jFV3a1I/AAAAAAAABAU/T6YDKL-Y85U/w722-h963-no/20130903_214607.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 03 September 2013, 15:36:33
What are good headphones for rap/electro/dnb basically stuff that is bass heavy?

Easy to mod as I'd like them to be modded with a detachable cable at some point. Not crazy expensive either. I currently own a pair of m50s and while they are awesome I can't use them for long as they are a bit tight and can get sweaty.
Portable or home use?
Strictly fullsize cans or earphones aswell?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 September 2013, 15:55:57
Well I'm going to try out these 900x but full size and earphones is fine.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 03 September 2013, 16:05:26
Well I'm going to try out these 900x but full size and earphones is fine.
What I would really recommend is finding any of the old denon line. Ah-d2000,ah-d5000 and ah-d7000. I really regret selling off my d7000 as they were amazing especially when you could get them for around 500-600 dollars.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Tue, 03 September 2013, 17:13:19
Thank you everyone for the responses!

If isolation isn't an issue I'd recommend grado sr60s, they may not look pretty but damn they're fine

Ah, I think I will need require a certain amount of isolation but it's nothing too crucial. However, what is important though is that I don't have too much noise leaking. I'll definitely do some more research into these. Thank you!

I would say get the M-50 over any SoL product, though I may be a little biased but the SoLs I heard were not that good imo.

Yeah, this was the answer I was expecting to get. I can fully understand why anyone would recommend the M50's. I'm leaning heavily towards these but not too sure just yet. The reviews on the Sol's seem to be divided about 80/20 (70 being good to excellent) so I'm still tempted :P The biggest plus for these over the M50 is the cheaper price.

How important is isolation?

If it's very important...hmmm, I know the Philips CitiScape Uptown's a safe bet for a very isolating headphone with decent sound quality, if you don't mind a soundstage with no depth and a volume slider notorious for imbalance. They should be around $65 or less, well under your budget. If you can't find 'em that cheap, I can help with that...

If isolation isn't important, then I'll just say Sony MDR-MA900 and be done with it. Treble's a bit diluted, but you can EQ it back into line; that's about the only flaw I can really think of for the price point. They're selling on eBay for about $155 shipped, so they'd run into the very limits of your budget.

Isolation is only important to a certain point. Sound leak would be the biggest factor, as I would want minimal amount of sound leaking.

Thank you for the 2 recommendations! I will be sure to do more research on these 2 tonight!

Grados have small sound stage.

Thank you for the tip! If I do end up disregarding sound stage, I'll probably just go with the M50's.

Well, how about a pair of slightly used (and sadly boxless), ATH-A900x for $120 shipped?

I will be sure to do some research on these tonight! From the pictures though, they seem rather large so I'm not too sure but that's a pretty good price you're offering. Also, are these the open or closed ones? If I become interested, I'll be sure to let you know! Thank you.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Tue, 03 September 2013, 17:27:47
I'd go with DT770s, but they're probably relatively more expensive in the US (I mean, M50s overpriced in Europe).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 03 September 2013, 19:15:58
Thank you everyone for the responses!

If isolation isn't an issue I'd recommend grado sr60s, they may not look pretty but damn they're fine

Ah, I think I will need require a certain amount of isolation but it's nothing too crucial. However, what is important though is that I don't have too much noise leaking. I'll definitely do some more research into these. Thank you!

I would say get the M-50 over any SoL product, though I may be a little biased but the SoLs I heard were not that good imo.

Yeah, this was the answer I was expecting to get. I can fully understand why anyone would recommend the M50's. I'm leaning heavily towards these but not too sure just yet. The reviews on the Sol's seem to be divided about 80/20 (70 being good to excellent) so I'm still tempted :P The biggest plus for these over the M50 is the cheaper price.

How important is isolation?

If it's very important...hmmm, I know the Philips CitiScape Uptown's a safe bet for a very isolating headphone with decent sound quality, if you don't mind a soundstage with no depth and a volume slider notorious for imbalance. They should be around $65 or less, well under your budget. If you can't find 'em that cheap, I can help with that...

If isolation isn't important, then I'll just say Sony MDR-MA900 and be done with it. Treble's a bit diluted, but you can EQ it back into line; that's about the only flaw I can really think of for the price point. They're selling on eBay for about $155 shipped, so they'd run into the very limits of your budget.

Isolation is only important to a certain point. Sound leak would be the biggest factor, as I would want minimal amount of sound leaking.

Thank you for the 2 recommendations! I will be sure to do more research on these 2 tonight!

Grados have small sound stage.

Thank you for the tip! If I do end up disregarding sound stage, I'll probably just go with the M50's.

Well, how about a pair of slightly used (and sadly boxless), ATH-A900x for $120 shipped?

I will be sure to do some research on these tonight! From the pictures though, they seem rather large so I'm not too sure but that's a pretty good price you're offering. Also, are these the open or closed ones? If I become interested, I'll be sure to let you know! Thank you.

I sold them to demik, sorry xD

Also, they're the closed back.  a900 = closed ad900 = open
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Tue, 03 September 2013, 19:50:45
How important is isolation?

If it's very important...hmmm, I know the Philips CitiScape Uptown's a safe bet for a very isolating headphone with decent sound quality, if you don't mind a soundstage with no depth and a volume slider notorious for imbalance. They should be around $65 or less, well under your budget. If you can't find 'em that cheap, I can help with that...

If isolation isn't important, then I'll just say Sony MDR-MA900 and be done with it. Treble's a bit diluted, but you can EQ it back into line; that's about the only flaw I can really think of for the price point. They're selling on eBay for about $155 shipped, so they'd run into the very limits of your budget.

Isolation is only important to a certain point. Sound leak would be the biggest factor, as I would want minimal amount of sound leaking.
I tend to consider isolation and sound leakage as going hand-in-hand.

The less isolation, the more it leaks. The more isolation, the less it leaks. Rarely does anything tend to defy that rule of thumb.

I can safely tell you that if someone's wearing an Uptown and you can hear what they're playing, then they're probably blasting their eardrums with very unsafe volumes. Sound leakage is definitely not a problem there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 03 September 2013, 20:33:39
Thank you everyone for the responses!

If isolation isn't an issue I'd recommend grado sr60s, they may not look pretty but damn they're fine

Ah, I think I will need require a certain amount of isolation but it's nothing too crucial. However, what is important though is that I don't have too much noise leaking. I'll definitely do some more research into these. Thank you!

I would say get the M-50 over any SoL product, though I may be a little biased but the SoLs I heard were not that good imo.

Yeah, this was the answer I was expecting to get. I can fully understand why anyone would recommend the M50's. I'm leaning heavily towards these but not too sure just yet. The reviews on the Sol's seem to be divided about 80/20 (70 being good to excellent) so I'm still tempted :P The biggest plus for these over the M50 is the cheaper price.

How important is isolation?

If it's very important...hmmm, I know the Philips CitiScape Uptown's a safe bet for a very isolating headphone with decent sound quality, if you don't mind a soundstage with no depth and a volume slider notorious for imbalance. They should be around $65 or less, well under your budget. If you can't find 'em that cheap, I can help with that...

If isolation isn't important, then I'll just say Sony MDR-MA900 and be done with it. Treble's a bit diluted, but you can EQ it back into line; that's about the only flaw I can really think of for the price point. They're selling on eBay for about $155 shipped, so they'd run into the very limits of your budget.

Isolation is only important to a certain point. Sound leak would be the biggest factor, as I would want minimal amount of sound leaking.

Thank you for the 2 recommendations! I will be sure to do more research on these 2 tonight!

Grados have small sound stage.

Thank you for the tip! If I do end up disregarding sound stage, I'll probably just go with the M50's.

Well, how about a pair of slightly used (and sadly boxless), ATH-A900x for $120 shipped?

I will be sure to do some research on these tonight! From the pictures though, they seem rather large so I'm not too sure but that's a pretty good price you're offering. Also, are these the open or closed ones? If I become interested, I'll be sure to let you know! Thank you.

I sold them to demik, sorry xD

Also, they're the closed back.  a900 = closed ad900 = open

fight me for them vesper! MANO A MANO!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Tue, 03 September 2013, 21:40:20
I sold them to demik, sorry xD

Also, they're the closed back.  a900 = closed ad900 = open

fight me for them vesper! MANO A MANO!

(http://i.imgur.com/hAduOzL.gif)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Wed, 04 September 2013, 06:35:55
What are good headphones for rap/electro/dnb basically stuff that is bass heavy?

Easy to mod as I'd like them to be modded with a detachable cable at some point. Not crazy expensive either. I currently own a pair of m50s and while they are awesome I can't use them for long as they are a bit tight and can get sweaty.

Urbanears Zinken is perfect for what you're looking for. No need for the cable mod too as it comes with an awesome detachable cable.

http://www.amazon.com/URBANEARS-Zinken-Professional-DJ-Headphones/dp/B007U28TX6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1378294540&sr=8-1&keywords=urbanears+zinken
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 05 September 2013, 17:21:02
Anyone going for the stax massdrop?  I shouldn't be thinking about it, I don't think I have the power to drive them, buuut...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Thu, 05 September 2013, 17:35:09
Anyone going for the stax massdrop?  I shouldn't be thinking about it, I don't think I have the power to drive them, buuut...

Against my better judgement I want to. I really want to.

I'd have to sell my DT770s, HD600s, Aune T1, O2 etc...

you should get 'em and let me try ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 05 September 2013, 17:56:11
Anyone going for the stax massdrop?  I shouldn't be thinking about it, I don't think I have the power to drive them, buuut...

Against my better judgement I want to. I really want to.

I'd have to sell my DT770s, HD600s, Aune T1, O2 etc...

you should get 'em and let me try ;)

I'd have to get rid of all my stuff, too.  And I like my he400s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Thu, 05 September 2013, 19:14:21
I'd like to upgrade from my VModa Crossfade LPs. Looking for some over the ear headphones that are mainly rock oriented, and I'd like to try open back if possible. I have heard a lot of good things about Grado, but I'm not really a fan of on the ear headphones. Planning on getting an O2 amp along with whatever headphones I choose. Any recommendations? I've been looking at the Beyerdynamic 880s, but I'm not sure how those will sound with rock.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 05 September 2013, 20:18:45
I'd like to upgrade from my VModa Crossfade LPs. Looking for some over the ear headphones that are mainly rock oriented, and I'd like to try open back if possible. I have heard a lot of good things about Grado, but I'm not really a fan of on the ear headphones. Planning on getting an O2 amp along with whatever headphones I choose. Any recommendations? I've been looking at the Beyerdynamic 880s, but I'm not sure how those will sound with rock.

The HD598s would probably do rather well for what you're looking at.  Grados are good for rock, but as you say, on-ear not quite as good as over-ear.  Depending on your head, I'd say check out the ath-a900x or ad900x (latter are open back) as well.  Are you building O2 or buying?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 05 September 2013, 23:39:08
<3 my 900x
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Thu, 05 September 2013, 23:45:34
I'd like to upgrade from my VModa Crossfade LPs. Looking for some over the ear headphones that are mainly rock oriented, and I'd like to try open back if possible. I have heard a lot of good things about Grado, but I'm not really a fan of on the ear headphones. Planning on getting an O2 amp along with whatever headphones I choose. Any recommendations? I've been looking at the Beyerdynamic 880s, but I'm not sure how those will sound with rock.

The HD598s would probably do rather well for what you're looking at.  Grados are good for rock, but as you say, on-ear not quite as good as over-ear.  Depending on your head, I'd say check out the ath-a900x or ad900x (latter are open back) as well.  Are you building O2 or buying?

Thanks, I will check those out.

Haven't decided if I'm going to build or buy the O2 yet. Seems like the only issue if I were to build it would be finding a case.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 06 September 2013, 00:09:42
I'd like to upgrade from my VModa Crossfade LPs. Looking for some over the ear headphones that are mainly rock oriented, and I'd like to try open back if possible. I have heard a lot of good things about Grado, but I'm not really a fan of on the ear headphones. Planning on getting an O2 amp along with whatever headphones I choose. Any recommendations? I've been looking at the Beyerdynamic 880s, but I'm not sure how those will sound with rock.

The HD598s would probably do rather well for what you're looking at.  Grados are good for rock, but as you say, on-ear not quite as good as over-ear.  Depending on your head, I'd say check out the ath-a900x or ad900x (latter are open back) as well.  Are you building O2 or buying?

Thanks, I will check those out.

Haven't decided if I'm going to build or buy the O2 yet. Seems like the only issue if I were to build it would be finding a case.

It's fairly easy to find cases, I know that jd labs sells their cases empty, for example.  If you're getting something built, I much prefer the look of the magni from schiit (why I got one, in fact).  The sound is very similar between the two and the matching DAC actually matches, too.  (If you get one later that is).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Fri, 06 September 2013, 04:08:46
Anyone going for the stax massdrop?  I shouldn't be thinking about it, I don't think I have the power to drive them, buuut...
It's not a matter of power with that Massdrop group buy since it's a system (headphone + amp), just a matter of money. Gotta say, I never thought I'd ever see Stax of all things on Massdrop.

For those who can't afford that group buy...I can work out something, if you don't mind getting vintage stuff instead of the current models.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Fri, 06 September 2013, 04:23:24
What exactly is in the Stax massdrop buy?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xandr on Fri, 06 September 2013, 04:45:28
I've collected quite a few headphones over the last few years:

Fullsize:
- Sony MDR-F1
- Beyerdynamic DT770 32ohm
- Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro 250ohm
- Logitech/Ultimate Ears UE6000
- Logitech/Ultimate Ears UE9000

In-Ear:
- Logitech/Ultimate Ears Triple.Fi 10 Pro
- Logitech/Ultimate Ears UE700

I use the UE9000 at home, connected to an Apogee Duet 2. The UE6000 are used in the office, connected directly to the line out of that Dell pile of... electronics. When travelling I use the UE700 either connected directly to my iPhone 4 or with a Fiio E11.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Fri, 06 September 2013, 06:43:21
I'd like to upgrade from my VModa Crossfade LPs. Looking for some over the ear headphones that are mainly rock oriented, and I'd like to try open back if possible. I have heard a lot of good things about Grado, but I'm not really a fan of on the ear headphones. Planning on getting an O2 amp along with whatever headphones I choose. Any recommendations? I've been looking at the Beyerdynamic 880s, but I'm not sure how those will sound with rock.

You can always get other cushions like the L-cushions which make then over the ear; at least for me. Check out this thread (http://www.head-fi.org/a/grado-pad-choices-and-mods) for more info.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Fri, 06 September 2013, 08:50:37
What exactly is in the Stax massdrop buy?

STAX SR-307 plus the amp for $1000, the price is pretty good if you don't mind ugly headphones, I heard they sound phenomenal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Fri, 06 September 2013, 09:26:15
What exactly is in the Stax massdrop buy?

STAX SR-307 plus the amp for $1000, the price is pretty good if you don't mind ugly headphones, I heard they sound phenomenal.
I was hoping for like the 007 or 009 lol, maybe I overestimated that marketsize.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Fri, 06 September 2013, 10:00:40
Hi all, I ordered the soundmagic HP100 from massdrop, and I now consider getting an amp/dac combo to go with them. I am not an audiophile, but I would like to get a good sound at a reasonable price, and it's my birthday in not so long  ;D

Having seen good reviews, I am currently looking forward to the schiit modi/magni combo. Is there a better choice out there for a similar price? Do you think it would deliver a good sound and work well with the HP100? I have seen HP100 reviews saying that these headphones matches better with amps having a little warm sound. Since I don't know what it sounds like (I have an idea of what it means, but my cheapo headphones probably never let me hear this!) well I am asking for your advice!

I would be using this combo only with a computer, no mobility required.

Also, will I need to buy extra cables to plug all together or will all the cables come with dac/amp/headphones already?

Thx for the help!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Fri, 06 September 2013, 17:08:37
I'd like to upgrade from my VModa Crossfade LPs. Looking for some over the ear headphones that are mainly rock oriented, and I'd like to try open back if possible. I have heard a lot of good things about Grado, but I'm not really a fan of on the ear headphones. Planning on getting an O2 amp along with whatever headphones I choose. Any recommendations? I've been looking at the Beyerdynamic 880s, but I'm not sure how those will sound with rock.

The HD598s would probably do rather well for what you're looking at.  Grados are good for rock, but as you say, on-ear not quite as good as over-ear.  Depending on your head, I'd say check out the ath-a900x or ad900x (latter are open back) as well.  Are you building O2 or buying?

Thanks, I will check those out.

Haven't decided if I'm going to build or buy the O2 yet. Seems like the only issue if I were to build it would be finding a case.

It's fairly easy to find cases, I know that jd labs sells their cases empty, for example.  If you're getting something built, I much prefer the look of the magni from schiit (why I got one, in fact).  The sound is very similar between the two and the matching DAC actually matches, too.  (If you get one later that is).

Whoops, didn't notice that JD labs has the case for sale.

I think I'll go with the Magni. I don't need battery power so I may as well save myself the money and/or hassle of building the amp and get the Magni instead.

I'd like to upgrade from my VModa Crossfade LPs. Looking for some over the ear headphones that are mainly rock oriented, and I'd like to try open back if possible. I have heard a lot of good things about Grado, but I'm not really a fan of on the ear headphones. Planning on getting an O2 amp along with whatever headphones I choose. Any recommendations? I've been looking at the Beyerdynamic 880s, but I'm not sure how those will sound with rock.

You can always get other cushions like the L-cushions which make then over the ear; at least for me. Check out this thread (http://www.head-fi.org/a/grado-pad-choices-and-mods) for more info.

I like the look of that, will consider doing this. I really do want to try out a pair of Grados.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sat, 07 September 2013, 14:36:30
What exactly is in the Stax massdrop buy?

STAX SR-307 plus the amp for $1000, the price is pretty good if you don't mind ugly headphones, I heard they sound phenomenal.
I was hoping for like the 007 or 009 lol, maybe I overestimated that marketsize.
Given how much those Omega-series sets cost, I don't think there would be enough people on Massdrop willing to spend $2,000-4,000 on a set of headphones, let alone a set of headphones that requires specialized amplification to work with anything, and in the SR-007's case, requires a KGSSHV, BHSE or SRM-T2 to sound as it was intended because the current production Stax amps can't drive it well enough. I wouldn't bank on the group buy shaving much more than $500 off for either set.

I'm surprised that people were already committing to buy the SR-307 + SRM-323S system on there, to be honest.

P.S.: Don't underestimate Lambda-series Stax. Just because they're more "entry-level" by overall Stax standards doesn't mean they won't blow past most headphones in their price range, even including the needed amp in said price range.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: neevers1 on Sat, 07 September 2013, 17:05:46
I really want the stax headphones, but it's hard to justify having never heard them, and no dealer anywhere near me that I know of to hear them... We'll see what happens.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CommunistWitchDr on Sat, 07 September 2013, 17:46:44
What exactly is in the Stax massdrop buy?

STAX SR-307 plus the amp for $1000, the price is pretty good if you don't mind ugly headphones, I heard they sound phenomenal.
I was hoping for like the 007 or 009 lol, maybe I overestimated that marketsize.

If there were 009s for a thousand on there I wouldn't have even thought about it before I ordered.

I'm still tempted by what's on there, but I think I can resist it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Loligagger on Sat, 07 September 2013, 18:05:11
The people that would even consider a stax omega are probably not those who would look on massdrop. That said $1k for a brand new SR-307 and SRM323S is a pretty good price. If I didn't already have a KGSSHV and an 009 coming from pricejapan in a few months I'd hop on that deal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: badcop on Mon, 09 September 2013, 08:20:49
ok so i've been looking into a decent headphone/amp setup but i'm getting a little lost.  I'm not really into headphones but i'm kinda forced into it at this point (noise  :()

for the headphones/amp i have a about a $400 dollar budget.

what i would like to eventually do is have a decent setup that will allow me to use my speakers and when its time to get quiet, just plug my headphones in without having to change the source on my computer.

is this a decent setup?
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, 250 ohms
Audioengine D1 24-bit digital-to-audio converter

for the future:
Audioengine N22 Amp
Audioengine P4 passive speakers
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: concept73 on Mon, 09 September 2013, 09:05:41
BOSE IE2, insane headphones!
Beats by dre solo
Corsair 1500 gaming headset
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Mon, 09 September 2013, 09:50:40
Beats?

NO.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: concept73 on Mon, 09 September 2013, 10:09:51
Beats?

NO.

I said i have them, not that i use them ;)
Xmas present still in the box lol, love my bose too much!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Mon, 09 September 2013, 11:03:40
Sell them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 09 September 2013, 11:32:38
My bose lasted a week and they stopped working waste of 100 doll hairs
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Mon, 09 September 2013, 11:38:35
So did mine.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Mon, 09 September 2013, 11:38:54
Bose have nowhere near the quality that they once had. It's a brand I would never even consider buying anything of.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 09 September 2013, 13:26:06
ok so i've been looking into a decent headphone/amp setup but i'm getting a little lost.  I'm not really into headphones but i'm kinda forced into it at this point (noise  :()

for the headphones/amp i have a about a $400 dollar budget.

what i would like to eventually do is have a decent setup that will allow me to use my speakers and when its time to get quiet, just plug my headphones in without having to change the source on my computer.

is this a decent setup?
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, 250 ohms
Audioengine D1 24-bit digital-to-audio converter

for the future:
Audioengine N22 Amp
Audioengine P4 passive speakers

Are you looking for headphones with a heavy bass response?  If so, those are solid cans. A couple options I'd recommend trying to demo if you can are the ath-a900x and akg550s (the latter should be at best buy even).

If you're set on the speakers, I'd say look at the TP4 as well - http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=310-312&FTR=topping%20tp30 as it has DAC built in and seems to have a better signature than the N22.

If you trust his reviews - http://news.cnet.com/8301-13645_3-20058833-47.html
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: badcop on Mon, 09 September 2013, 13:34:05
ok so i've been looking into a decent headphone/amp setup but i'm getting a little lost.  I'm not really into headphones but i'm kinda forced into it at this point (noise  :()

for the headphones/amp i have a about a $400 dollar budget.

what i would like to eventually do is have a decent setup that will allow me to use my speakers and when its time to get quiet, just plug my headphones in without having to change the source on my computer.

is this a decent setup?
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, 250 ohms
Audioengine D1 24-bit digital-to-audio converter

for the future:
Audioengine N22 Amp
Audioengine P4 passive speakers

Are you looking for headphones with a heavy bass response?  If so, those are solid cans. A couple options I'd recommend trying to demo if you can are the ath-a900x and akg550s (the latter should be at best buy even).

If you're set on the speakers, I'd say look at the TP4 as well - http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=310-312&FTR=topping%20tp30 as it has DAC built in and seems to have a better signature than the N22.

If you trust his reviews - http://news.cnet.com/8301-13645_3-20058833-47.html

cool thanks for the suggestions.  i have some work to do.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Emospence on Wed, 11 September 2013, 03:18:14
UM Miracle
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Wed, 11 September 2013, 04:51:04
As for Bose, the IE2 and OE are terribad, but the Triport AE2 is actually a very good closed back headphone for the price.  Great bass extension and positioning.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Wed, 11 September 2013, 05:04:47
Got the Hifiman RE-400 back today!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 12 September 2013, 23:11:35
nothing fancy like you guys but im just getting started

(http://i.imgur.com/e3yX2gZ.jpg)

a900x
ad700
m50

need to mod the 900x so it can have a removable cable and the ad700s to a shorter cable since the cable is ridiculously long for what i need it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 12 September 2013, 23:41:57
nothing fancy like you guys but im just getting started

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/e3yX2gZ.jpg)


a900x
ad700
m50

need to mod the 900x so it can have a removable cable and the ad700s to a shorter cable since the cable is ridiculously long for what i need it.

Nice set....those are pretty good looking. I honestly thought I was the only one out there rocking the Best Buy Rocketfish mousepad.

Now I know I'm not alone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 12 September 2013, 23:43:45
it's basically the same thing as the razer version. aside from the pads peeling off i haven't had any problems with it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Thu, 12 September 2013, 23:44:43
nothing fancy like you guys but im just getting started

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/e3yX2gZ.jpg)


a900x
ad700
m50

need to mod the 900x so it can have a removable cable and the ad700s to a shorter cable since the cable is ridiculously long for what i need it.
AD700 and M50,, both are amazing. I was planning on getting those but settled for the Koss TBSE1s. In other news, RIP TBSE1s :C You have served me well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 12 September 2013, 23:47:15
ad700s are ridiculously comfortable. sadly, the m50s are not. after 2 hours i start to get a headache.

so the a900x have been a life saver.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Thu, 12 September 2013, 23:56:24
I decided against the AD700 as I couldn't find it at a decent price in Canada, and I figured that open cans would be really hard to take outside. Don't want people to hear me blasting KPop.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 12 September 2013, 23:59:01
i use them for gaming/movies mostly. i tend to buy cheaper earphones because for some reason i go through them really really fast. but i really want a pair of SE215s. Tj said they're great for the price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Fri, 13 September 2013, 00:02:48
Yeah, they are really well known for their gaming use. Probably going to get my TBSE1s replaced. Koss and their godly warranty.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 13 September 2013, 00:06:30
what happened?

and yeah, i was looking for a headset and everybody told me to ignore all that gaming crap and get these. was lucky to find them new under 100 so i went for it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 00:37:56
I just pulled the trigger on this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ETB8ZTY/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ANWBAWAHYG3PL

$149 for a combo of a red Audio Technica ATH-M50 + FiiO E6 Headphone Amplifier. I know the amp is probably crap but I just had to do it. My first real decent pair of headphones!

Did I do okay? Don't hate me for getting red :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 13 September 2013, 00:39:20
never seen those in red
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 00:46:48
never seen those in red

I was surprised they had them in this color, myself. I came across it about 2 months ago when I was researching on this headphone. Seems they are somewhat limited edition. I think they look great!

(http://www.iheadphones.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/m/5/m50_red_side.png)
(http://altomusic.com/shop/images/product/117495-93a1850d6c244a3b229e75d2d6904e8c.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Fri, 13 September 2013, 00:58:09
what happened?

and yeah, i was looking for a headset and everybody told me to ignore all that gaming crap and get these. was lucky to find them new under 100 so i went for it.

I stressed the plastic when I was taking them off and the a piece of plastic on the part holding the cans to the headband broke off. I'm doing a ghetto fix of some crazy glue until I have free time to go to the PO and send them to Koss.

I just pulled the trigger on this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ETB8ZTY/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ANWBAWAHYG3PL

$149 for a combo of a red Audio Technica ATH-M50 + FiiO E6 Headphone Amplifier. I know the amp is probably crap but I just had to do it. My first real decent pair of headphones!

Did I do okay? Don't hate me for getting red :P

Those are really sick. Great deal too, as the E6 is a pretty good portable amp. IIRC they also had a silver version of the M50s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 01:09:41
I just pulled the trigger on this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ETB8ZTY/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ANWBAWAHYG3PL

$149 for a combo of a red Audio Technica ATH-M50 + FiiO E6 Headphone Amplifier. I know the amp is probably crap but I just had to do it. My first real decent pair of headphones!

Did I do okay? Don't hate me for getting red :P

Those are really sick. Great deal too, as the E6 is a pretty good portable amp. IIRC they also had a silver version of the M50s

Yeah, I saw those silver ones but they were a lot more expensive because they were a Anniversary Edition, which are even rarer :( I'm glad to hear that the E6 isn't too bad for a portable amp. So excited for this new listening experience :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Fri, 13 September 2013, 01:19:24
I just pulled the trigger on this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ETB8ZTY/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ANWBAWAHYG3PL

$149 for a combo of a red Audio Technica ATH-M50 + FiiO E6 Headphone Amplifier. I know the amp is probably crap but I just had to do it. My first real decent pair of headphones!

Did I do okay? Don't hate me for getting red :P

Those are really sick. Great deal too, as the E6 is a pretty good portable amp. IIRC they also had a silver version of the M50s

Yeah, I saw those silver ones but they were a lot more expensive because they were a Anniversary Edition, which are even rarer :( I'm glad to hear that the E6 isn't too bad for a portable amp. So excited for this new listening experience :D

Yep, they were much easier to get a year or two ago. If you ever want to upgrade, anything from Fiio would be a good buy. I highly recommend the E11.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 01:24:11
I just pulled the trigger on this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ETB8ZTY/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ANWBAWAHYG3PL

$149 for a combo of a red Audio Technica ATH-M50 + FiiO E6 Headphone Amplifier. I know the amp is probably crap but I just had to do it. My first real decent pair of headphones!

Did I do okay? Don't hate me for getting red :P

Those are really sick. Great deal too, as the E6 is a pretty good portable amp. IIRC they also had a silver version of the M50s

Yeah, I saw those silver ones but they were a lot more expensive because they were a Anniversary Edition, which are even rarer :( I'm glad to hear that the E6 isn't too bad for a portable amp. So excited for this new listening experience :D

Yep, they were much easier to get a year or two ago. If you ever want to upgrade, anything from Fiio would be a good buy. I highly recommend the E11.

I've actually been looking at the E11 for the past 3 days. Is it a much larger upgrade from the E6??? If so, I may consider selling the E6, spending a little more, and upgrading.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Fri, 13 September 2013, 01:26:07
I just pulled the trigger on this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ETB8ZTY/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ANWBAWAHYG3PL

$149 for a combo of a red Audio Technica ATH-M50 + FiiO E6 Headphone Amplifier. I know the amp is probably crap but I just had to do it. My first real decent pair of headphones!

Did I do okay? Don't hate me for getting red :P

Those are really sick. Great deal too, as the E6 is a pretty good portable amp. IIRC they also had a silver version of the M50s

Yeah, I saw those silver ones but they were a lot more expensive because they were a Anniversary Edition, which are even rarer :( I'm glad to hear that the E6 isn't too bad for a portable amp. So excited for this new listening experience :D

Yep, they were much easier to get a year or two ago. If you ever want to upgrade, anything from Fiio would be a good buy. I highly recommend the E11.

I've actually been looking at the E11 for the past 3 days. Is it a much larger upgrade from the E6??? If so, I may consider selling the E6, spending a little more, and upgrading.

The E6 is a pretty good starting AMP, but you can really hear the difference with the E11. The sound is much clearer at higher volumes, and the quality in general is better. Here are some revies for the E11 http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e11
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 01:53:41
The E6 is a pretty good starting AMP, but you can really hear the difference with the E11. The sound is much clearer at higher volumes, and the quality in general is better. Here are some revies for the E11 http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e11

Time for some reading and research! Thanks!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Fri, 13 September 2013, 01:55:14
The E6 is a pretty good starting AMP, but you can really hear the difference with the E11. The sound is much clearer at higher volumes, and the quality in general is better. Here are some revies for the E11 http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e11

Time for some reading and research! Thanks!

Head-fi is your one stop shop for all things audiophile! Audiophiles get pretty intense, they do anything and everything to make their listening experience better. You better start looking for a Sanza clip!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 02:05:49
The E6 is a pretty good starting AMP, but you can really hear the difference with the E11. The sound is much clearer at higher volumes, and the quality in general is better. Here are some revies for the E11 http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e11

Time for some reading and research! Thanks!

Head-fi is your one stop shop for all things audiophile! Audiophiles get pretty intense, they do anything and everything to make their listening experience better. You better start looking for a Sanza clip!

Why? Is that the MP3 of choice for audiophiles on Head-fi??? I was just going to use my smart phone :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 13 September 2013, 09:46:37
The E6 is a pretty good starting AMP, but you can really hear the difference with the E11. The sound is much clearer at higher volumes, and the quality in general is better. Here are some revies for the E11 http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e11

Time for some reading and research! Thanks!

Head-fi is your one stop shop for all things audiophile! Audiophiles get pretty intense, they do anything and everything to make their listening experience better. You better start looking for a Sanza clip!

Why? Is that the MP3 of choice for audiophiles on Head-fi??? I was just going to use my smart phone :))

It's the best bang for the buck player. Unfortunately, I lost mine because the clip failed when I was trying the catch the bus. I really loved it... rockboxable, with microSDHC slot and okay DAC... and listening to music didn't suck phone's battery.

Of course, there are better players, but I just can't justify carrying an $100+ one around. If I lose it again, you know...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Fri, 13 September 2013, 10:04:26
The E6 is a pretty good starting AMP, but you can really hear the difference with the E11. The sound is much clearer at higher volumes, and the quality in general is better. Here are some revies for the E11 http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e11

Time for some reading and research! Thanks!

Head-fi is your one stop shop for all things audiophile! Audiophiles get pretty intense, they do anything and everything to make their listening experience better. You better start looking for a Sanza clip!

Why? Is that the MP3 of choice for audiophiles on Head-fi??? I was just going to use my smart phone :))

It's the best bang for the buck player. Unfortunately, I lost mine because the clip failed when I was trying the catch the bus. I really loved it... rockboxable, with microSDHC slot and okay DAC... and listening to music didn't suck phone's battery.

Of course, there are better players, but I just can't justify carrying an $100+ one around. If I lose it again, you know...

Well it's not just the value that makes it the choice of audiophiles. It has a significantly better sound quality during music playback. It's a device dedicated to music, and will generally have better sound quality than a device originally meant to be used as a phone. The difference is not exactly ground breaking, but it is definitely noticeable. Here's some reviews of the Sansa Clip+ if you think you might be interested. http://www.head-fi.org/products/sandisk-sansa-clip-2-gb-mp3-player-black
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: modulor on Fri, 13 September 2013, 10:13:15
I agree that the Sansa Clip+ or ClipZip with Rockbox is the best bang for your buck.  The player is a success from an engineering standpoint and Rockbox gives you all the functionality you'd ever need.  Completely flat FR across the board, low output impedance, perfect for most IEMs - portable headphones may need an amp in the chain.  Sure there are more technically capable players out there, but the Clip+ is comparable and at $30-$40 an absolute steal for  the sound quality (and features via Rockbox) you get.  I use mine with my HiFiMan RE-400 and GR07 (and currently a loaner RE-600), pairs very well with those IMO.  I've tried several other popular and higher-end IEMs at meet-ups (most notably the Sony EX-1000) also yielding great results...basically you can't go wrong here.  Harder to drive IEMs will require an external amp because it only puts out about 7-15mW (which is enough power to drive most) and it's headphone out is better than most at doubling as a line out to an amp.  Battery life is about 15 hours on average, supports up to 64gb microSD-XC cards and it's very tiny.  Why waste your phones battery?  :cool:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Fri, 13 September 2013, 10:13:21
i use them for gaming/movies mostly. i tend to buy cheaper earphones because for some reason i go through them really really fast. but i really want a pair of SE215s. Tj said they're great for the price.

They're not as good as the older Shure models, but they are pretty damn awesome, regardless of the price. The old ones were a bit louder, but the new model has more balances highs and mids. Also, being able to remove the actual earpiece is a big bonus for me. Shure FTW.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 13 September 2013, 12:27:59
The E6 is a pretty good starting AMP, but you can really hear the difference with the E11. The sound is much clearer at higher volumes, and the quality in general is better. Here are some revies for the E11 http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e11 (http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e11)

Time for some reading and research! Thanks!

Head-fi is your one stop shop for all things audiophile! Audiophiles get pretty intense, they do anything and everything to make their listening experience better. You better start looking for a Sanza clip!

Why? Is that the MP3 of choice for audiophiles on Head-fi??? I was just going to use my smart phone :))

It's the best bang for the buck player. Unfortunately, I lost mine because the clip failed when I was trying the catch the bus. I really loved it... rockboxable, with microSDHC slot and okay DAC... and listening to music didn't suck phone's battery.

Of course, there are better players, but I just can't justify carrying an $100+ one around. If I lose it again, you know...

Well it's not just the value that makes it the choice of audiophiles. It has a significantly better sound quality during music playback. It's a device dedicated to music, and will generally have better sound quality than a device originally meant to be used as a phone. The difference is not exactly ground breaking, but it is definitely noticeable.

I don't care about so-called audiophiles.

First, there are many devices with better sound quality. Second, the difference is negligible on the bus or when running in most cases.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 13:12:53
It's the best bang for the buck player. Unfortunately, I lost mine because the clip failed when I was trying the catch the bus. I really loved it... rockboxable, with microSDHC slot and okay DAC... and listening to music didn't suck phone's battery.

Of course, there are better players, but I just can't justify carrying an $100+ one around. If I lose it again, you know...

Well it's not just the value that makes it the choice of audiophiles. It has a significantly better sound quality during music playback. It's a device dedicated to music, and will generally have better sound quality than a device originally meant to be used as a phone. The difference is not exactly ground breaking, but it is definitely noticeable. Here's some reviews of the Sansa Clip+ if you think you might be interested. http://www.head-fi.org/products/sandisk-sansa-clip-2-gb-mp3-player-black

I agree that the Sansa Clip+ or ClipZip with Rockbox is the best bang for your buck.  The player is a success from an engineering standpoint and Rockbox gives you all the functionality you'd ever need.  Completely flat FR across the board, low output impedance, perfect for most IEMs - portable headphones may need an amp in the chain.  Sure there are more technically capable players out there, but the Clip+ is comparable and at $30-$40 an absolute steal for  the sound quality (and features via Rockbox) you get.  I use mine with my HiFiMan RE-400 and GR07 (and currently a loaner RE-600), pairs very well with those IMO.  I've tried several other popular and higher-end IEMs at meet-ups (most notably the Sony EX-1000) also yielding great results...basically you can't go wrong here.  Harder to drive IEMs will require an external amp because it only puts out about 7-15mW (which is enough power to drive most) and it's headphone out is better than most at doubling as a line out to an amp.  Battery life is about 15 hours on average, supports up to 64gb microSD-XC cards and it's very tiny.  Why waste your phones battery?  :cool:

I don't care about so-called audiophiles.

First, there are many devices with better sound quality. Second, the difference is negligible on the bus or when running in most cases.

Thank you, guys! All this input really does help out a lot. I'm usually the type with a lot of questions before buying something, and all your replies have pretty much answered every question I probably would've had on audio quality and portability. Rockbox is new to me also, so I'll have to look into that. I think i may have to get one eventually. Once I get my headphones, it'll probably convince me to get one. I used to own one of these way back a couple years ago but haven't touched it in years because it always kept having issues: http://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-Sansa-Player-Expansion-Black/dp/B000ETTFRG/ref=sr_1_59?ie=UTF8&qid=1379095677&sr=8-59&keywords=sansa+mp3

I was also wondering, when you place a microSD card into these Clip+ or Clipzip, does it do the whole long loading process of loading the microSD card every time you turn it on???

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 13 September 2013, 13:48:06
No, I don't think so IIRC.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 13:59:11
No, I don't think so IIRC.

Awesome. Thanks. Going to have a lot of fun plugging my headphone into everything possible when I get it :D Try everything with the amp and without the amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 13 September 2013, 15:01:02
http://www.amazon.com/Fiio-X3-Mastering-Quality-Wolfson/dp/B00DGKVW9Y another really strong option to go with if you want an all in one set up.  It's got a better dac and opamp than the e17 plus does microsd up to 64gb verified and rumoured to support 128gb.  Interface isn't the most smooth, but if you're going to carry two devices, this is my choice.  It may pop up again on massdrop to save you 20-40 bucks, too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 13 September 2013, 15:08:58
http://www.amazon.com/Fiio-X3-Mastering-Quality-Wolfson/dp/B00DGKVW9Y another really strong option to go with if you want an all in one set up.  It's got a better dac and opamp than the e17 plus does microsd up to 64gb verified and rumoured to support 128gb.  Interface isn't the most smooth, but if you're going to carry two devices, this is my choice.  It may pop up again on massdrop to save you 20-40 bucks, too.

Oh wow, already has an amp and dac built into it! Thank you for this option. Definitely going to have to do more research tonight on things. Oh man... I don't know if I prepared myself enough when I entered this new world of audio :P At least, I know for a fact that my wallet and bank account isn't ready :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 13 September 2013, 15:11:57
http://www.amazon.com/Fiio-X3-Mastering-Quality-Wolfson/dp/B00DGKVW9Y another really strong option to go with if you want an all in one set up.  It's got a better dac and opamp than the e17 plus does microsd up to 64gb verified and rumoured to support 128gb.  Interface isn't the most smooth, but if you're going to carry two devices, this is my choice.  It may pop up again on massdrop to save you 20-40 bucks, too.

Oh wow, already has an amp and dac built into it! Thank you for this option. Definitely going to have to do more research tonight on things. Oh man... I don't know if I prepared myself enough when I entered this new world of audio :P At least, I know for a fact that my wallet and bank account isn't ready :))

I've tried with some success to keep myself out of the poor house with finding a lot of bang for your buck stuff.  Massdrop has helped tremendously with that as well, seeing as I've saved ~$300 so far than if I'd just gone full retail on what I'd got.

Right now, I'm using an x3 with my JH13pros and have a magni/modi for my sitdown listening with he400s while I wait for my 500s from massdrop.  I'm attempting to resist trying to match price with my jh13pros and a pair of fullsize cans currently.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Mon, 16 September 2013, 13:33:14
Hey all,

I decided to start a poll on massdrop for a microphone clip for headphone. I put the modmic as the first item. So if anyone is interested, well go put your suggestions and vote!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Wed, 18 September 2013, 20:11:09
(http://i.imgur.com/0LsP8y6.jpg)

so heaaaavy
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 18 September 2013, 20:13:56
Those look familiar.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Wed, 18 September 2013, 20:59:19
Already posted this in "what did you get in the mail" thread but deserved to be posted here too!

I got my Audio Technica ATH-M50's today! They look and sound sexy! I can definitely hear the difference for sure! I've probably been listening to these for about 5 hours straight now and mostly everything just sounds so much different compared to my previous mediocre - **** headphones! I already have nice speakers so many things I've heard before but there are definitely things I can hear in these headphones that I couldn't really hear on my Turtle Beach P11'w, which is what I use for the PC. They came with the FiiO E6's and definitely make a difference when I use it with my phone! They don't do anything on the PC but that's bc my Logitech Z2300's already have a decent amp in them.


Bad lighting in the room today :( They are less bright than in the pictures, and are more of a deeper red color in person.

(http://i.imgur.com/a4dsCAo.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/I7SVo0i.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/9VCBEgB.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/luMrMXn.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/tj9e3pP.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/0geTWrZ.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 18 September 2013, 23:19:09
Time to get the glue and female headphone receptacle out
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Wed, 18 September 2013, 23:28:31
Time to get the glue and female headphone receptacle out

I'm definitely considering doing that cable mod but I think I might use them as is for a lil' bit first. I'll be sure to post in here if I need help! Don't have the first clue on how it's done.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Thu, 19 September 2013, 00:38:51
Already posted this in "what did you get in the mail" thread but deserved to be posted here too!

I got my Audio Technica ATH-M50's today! They look and sound sexy! I can definitely hear the difference for sure! I've probably been listening to these for about 5 hours straight now and mostly everything just sounds so much different compared to my previous mediocre - **** headphones! I already have nice speakers so many things I've heard before but there are definitely things I can hear in these headphones that I couldn't really hear on my Turtle Beach P11'w, which is what I use for the PC. They came with the FiiO E6's and definitely make a difference when I use it with my phone! They don't do anything on the PC but that's bc my Logitech Z2300's already have a decent amp in them.


Bad lighting in the room today :( They are less bright than in the pictures, and are more of a deeper red color in person.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/a4dsCAo.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/I7SVo0i.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/9VCBEgB.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/luMrMXn.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/tj9e3pP.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0geTWrZ.jpg)

I'm literally crying at how beautiful that thing is. Audio Technica gets so many props for making amazing headphones that look great too. Glad you're enjoying it, those things will last you a long time, until you find the urge to go for the big boys such as the Denons. Or, maybe you'll just use those forever, I'd be happy to drive those every day for the rest of my life. Sadly, I'm using reaally bad JVCs right now, until I get a replacement for my Koss phones, which is like a 6-8 week turnround... Bad music for a few months, woo!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:18:29
Already posted this in "what did you get in the mail" thread but deserved to be posted here too!

I got my Audio Technica ATH-M50's today! They look and sound sexy! I can definitely hear the difference for sure! I've probably been listening to these for about 5 hours straight now and mostly everything just sounds so much different compared to my previous mediocre - **** headphones! I already have nice speakers so many things I've heard before but there are definitely things I can hear in these headphones that I couldn't really hear on my Turtle Beach P11'w, which is what I use for the PC. They came with the FiiO E6's and definitely make a difference when I use it with my phone! They don't do anything on the PC but that's bc my Logitech Z2300's already have a decent amp in them.


Bad lighting in the room today :( They are less bright than in the pictures, and are more of a deeper red color in person.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/a4dsCAo.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/I7SVo0i.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/9VCBEgB.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/luMrMXn.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/tj9e3pP.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0geTWrZ.jpg)

I'm literally crying at how beautiful that thing is. Audio Technica gets so many props for making amazing headphones that look great too. Glad you're enjoying it, those things will last you a long time, until you find the urge to go for the big boys such as the Denons. Or, maybe you'll just use those forever, I'd be happy to drive those every day for the rest of my life. Sadly, I'm using reaally bad JVCs right now, until I get a replacement for my Koss phones, which is like a 6-8 week turnround... Bad music for a few months, woo!

Hahaha~ Don't cry, just save a lil' money and buy a set! They're totally worth it, especially when bundled with the FiiO E6 for only $149 shipped. I probably won't ever upgrade, or at least plan not to :)) I don't see why I would because I absolutely love these. The only thing I'm worried about is me buying another set for gaming like the ATH-AD700... so I don't go splurging again... these past 2 weeks hurt my bank account a lot :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:20:33
Already posted this in "what did you get in the mail" thread but deserved to be posted here too!

I got my Audio Technica ATH-M50's today! They look and sound sexy! I can definitely hear the difference for sure! I've probably been listening to these for about 5 hours straight now and mostly everything just sounds so much different compared to my previous mediocre - **** headphones! I already have nice speakers so many things I've heard before but there are definitely things I can hear in these headphones that I couldn't really hear on my Turtle Beach P11'w, which is what I use for the PC. They came with the FiiO E6's and definitely make a difference when I use it with my phone! They don't do anything on the PC but that's bc my Logitech Z2300's already have a decent amp in them.


Bad lighting in the room today :( They are less bright than in the pictures, and are more of a deeper red color in person.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/a4dsCAo.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/I7SVo0i.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/9VCBEgB.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/luMrMXn.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/tj9e3pP.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0geTWrZ.jpg)

I'm literally crying at how beautiful that thing is. Audio Technica gets so many props for making amazing headphones that look great too. Glad you're enjoying it, those things will last you a long time, until you find the urge to go for the big boys such as the Denons. Or, maybe you'll just use those forever, I'd be happy to drive those every day for the rest of my life. Sadly, I'm using reaally bad JVCs right now, until I get a replacement for my Koss phones, which is like a 6-8 week turnround... Bad music for a few months, woo!

Hahaha~ Don't cry, just save a lil' money and buy a set! They're totally worth it, especially when bundled with the FiiO E6 for only $149 shipped. I probably won't ever upgrade, or at least plan not to :)) I don't see why I would because I absolutely love these. The only thing I'm worried about is me buying another set for gaming like the ATH-AD700... I need to create a priority list so I don't go splurging again... these past 2 weeks hurt my bank account a lot :P
Nah, I enjoy my TBSE1s, and it'd be hard to find that bundle in Canada, and usually Amazon.com isn't friendly when it comes to great deals and shipping outside CONUS
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:22:32
Nah, I enjoy my TBSE1s, and it'd be hard to find that bundle in Canada, and usually Amazon.com isn't friendly when it comes to great deals and shipping outside CONUS

True. There's no point in spending another $150 when you already have something you're happy with... For me, these are my first pair of decent headphones, so I'm glad I started in the right place... saves me money...  unless I spend money on an expensive amplifier... I need to create a priority list and set my no.1 to PS4 so there's a nice gap of time in between now and when that is released... :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:23:35
Already posted this in "what did you get in the mail" thread but deserved to be posted here too!

I got my Audio Technica ATH-M50's today! They look and sound sexy! I can definitely hear the difference for sure! I've probably been listening to these for about 5 hours straight now and mostly everything just sounds so much different compared to my previous mediocre - **** headphones! I already have nice speakers so many things I've heard before but there are definitely things I can hear in these headphones that I couldn't really hear on my Turtle Beach P11'w, which is what I use for the PC. They came with the FiiO E6's and definitely make a difference when I use it with my phone! They don't do anything on the PC but that's bc my Logitech Z2300's already have a decent amp in them.


Bad lighting in the room today :( They are less bright than in the pictures, and are more of a deeper red color in person.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/a4dsCAo.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/I7SVo0i.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/9VCBEgB.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/luMrMXn.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/tj9e3pP.jpg)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0geTWrZ.jpg)

I'm literally crying at how beautiful that thing is. Audio Technica gets so many props for making amazing headphones that look great too. Glad you're enjoying it, those things will last you a long time, until you find the urge to go for the big boys such as the Denons. Or, maybe you'll just use those forever, I'd be happy to drive those every day for the rest of my life. Sadly, I'm using reaally bad JVCs right now, until I get a replacement for my Koss phones, which is like a 6-8 week turnround... Bad music for a few months, woo!

Hahaha~ Don't cry, just save a lil' money and buy a set! They're totally worth it, especially when bundled with the FiiO E6 for only $149 shipped. I probably won't ever upgrade, or at least plan not to :)) I don't see why I would because I absolutely love these. The only thing I'm worried about is me buying another set for gaming like the ATH-AD700... I need to create a priority list so I don't go splurging again... these past 2 weeks hurt my bank account a lot :P
Nah, I enjoy my TBSE1s, and it'd be hard to find that bundle in Canada, and usually Amazon.com isn't friendly when it comes to great deals and shipping outside CONUS

You just gotta know the right member with a prime sub that doesn't mind proxying.

Or the right member that doesn't mind letting others borrow his gear he doesn't use much.  Like these sr225i that I might sell, but would definitely let people borrow.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:25:50

You just gotta know the right member with a prime sub that doesn't mind proxying.

Or the right member that doesn't mind letting others borrow his gear he doesn't use much.  Like these sr225i that I might sell, but would definitely let people borrow.



I was actually considering those a couple months back instead of these M50's but the open ear design makes it undesirable as it'll leak sound at my work place, which isn't appropriate. How different are these to the M50's? I've heard they are pretty much built for instrumental music.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:36:13

You just gotta know the right member with a prime sub that doesn't mind proxying.

Or the right member that doesn't mind letting others borrow his gear he doesn't use much.  Like these sr225i that I might sell, but would definitely let people borrow.



I was actually considering those a couple months back instead of these M50's but the open ear design makes it undesirable as it'll leak sound at my work place, which isn't appropriate. How different are these to the M50's? I've heard they are pretty much built for instrumental music.

My head is too big for m50s so I couldn't say, but they're definitely an instrument friendly headphone. Remarkably comfy, too.

So grado story quick before I go watch tv.  I was trying to do a detachable cable mod for them and got one of the voice coil contacts too hot and it detached from the transducer.  Well, grado tells me send them in and they'll charge me $40 since I'm second owner and no warranty.  I got them back yesterday and they had replaced both housings (warped them from heating them to separate them), both transducers and the cable (I'd sent it in without a cable.  The cost to do all of this? $0.

So yeah, if you like rock/jazz and similar, my recommendation forever is grado.  If their high end stuff was more complete, I'd have ordered a pair of PS line headphones already.  But they don't really compete well with the hd600/he500/lcd-2 that I own currently.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:46:17

You just gotta know the right member with a prime sub that doesn't mind proxying.

Or the right member that doesn't mind letting others borrow his gear he doesn't use much.  Like these sr225i that I might sell, but would definitely let people borrow.



I was actually considering those a couple months back instead of these M50's but the open ear design makes it undesirable as it'll leak sound at my work place, which isn't appropriate. How different are these to the M50's? I've heard they are pretty much built for instrumental music.

My head is too big for m50s so I couldn't say, but they're definitely an instrument friendly headphone. Remarkably comfy, too.

So grado story quick before I go watch tv.  I was trying to do a detachable cable mod for them and got one of the voice coil contacts too hot and it detached from the transducer.  Well, grado tells me send them in and they'll charge me $40 since I'm second owner and no warranty.  I got them back yesterday and they had replaced both housings (warped them from heating them to separate them), both transducers and the cable (I'd sent it in without a cable.  The cost to do all of this? $0.

So yeah, if you like rock/jazz and similar, my recommendation forever is grado.  If their high end stuff was more complete, I'd have ordered a pair of PS line headphones already.  But they don't really compete well with the hd600/he500/lcd-2 that I own currently.

Holy cow, that's some awesome customer service!!! I definitely do listen to a lot of instrumental music like classical, jazz, and rock so Grados may be something I might look at in the future. Thanks for the tips. Hopefully I won't become a audiophile wannabe... Don't think my bank account can handle it :))

If I ever want a nice pair of headphones for gaming, do you think the AD700's are worth purchasing with a separate microphone if I already own a Turtle Beach P11???
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:48:58

You just gotta know the right member with a prime sub that doesn't mind proxying.

Or the right member that doesn't mind letting others borrow his gear he doesn't use much.  Like these sr225i that I might sell, but would definitely let people borrow.



I was actually considering those a couple months back instead of these M50's but the open ear design makes it undesirable as it'll leak sound at my work place, which isn't appropriate. How different are these to the M50's? I've heard they are pretty much built for instrumental music.
Open cans and closed cans aren't even comparable in my opinion. With closed you naturally get those closed off and confined sounds, what I think is a muddier bass, and you can feel somewhat feel the sound bouncing off the walls, giving a sort of resonance. They also don't normally require heavy amping as the closed design helps to concentrate the sound directly into your ears. Open cans on the other hand are a whole other entity. If I could compare them in an analogy it would be this. Imagine an orchestra, with all the bells and whistles, your strings, brass, etc. Now listening to an orchestra through closed headphones is enjoyable, you can hear the melody, and everything mixes quite well, but that in itself is a problem. It feels more like everything is bundled together, and creating just one sound, and not an assortment of sounds. Open headphones on the other hand have a broader sound stage, meaning you can differentiate those different sections, and in return, pick up on those more subtle instruments, and overall give you a more enjoyable experience. Then again, all of this is my own personal thoughts, and results may vary. But generally, you get a much larger sound stage, without the resonance that comes with closed headphones.

About the Audio Technica ATH-AD700s. My main question would be, what type of games do you play? When I think AD700s, I immediately think of FPS. They are simply the FPS king. Footsteps are clear, and the open sound stage helps you pinpoint where exactly they are coming from.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 19 September 2013, 01:56:39

You just gotta know the right member with a prime sub that doesn't mind proxying.

Or the right member that doesn't mind letting others borrow his gear he doesn't use much.  Like these sr225i that I might sell, but would definitely let people borrow.



I was actually considering those a couple months back instead of these M50's but the open ear design makes it undesirable as it'll leak sound at my work place, which isn't appropriate. How different are these to the M50's? I've heard they are pretty much built for instrumental music.
Open cans and closed cans aren't even comparable in my opinion. With closed you naturally get those closed off and confined sounds, what I think is a muddier bass, and you can feel somewhat feel the sound bouncing off the walls, giving a sort of resonance. They also don't normally require heavy amping as the closed design helps to concentrate the sound directly into your ears. Open cans on the other hand are a whole other entity. If I could compare them in an analogy it would be this. Imagine an orchestra, with all the bells and whistles, your strings, brass, etc. Now listening to an orchestra through closed headphones is enjoyable, you can hear the melody, and everything mixes quite well, but that in itself is a problem. It feels more like everything is bundled together, and creating just one sound, and not an assortment of sounds. Open headphones on the other hand have a broader sound stage, meaning you can differentiate those different sections, and in return, pick up on those more subtle instruments, and overall give you a more enjoyable experience. Then again, all of this is my own personal thoughts, and results may vary. But generally, you get a much larger sound stage, without the resonance that comes with closed headphones.

About the Audio Technica ATH-AD700s. My main question would be, what type of games do you play? When I think AD700s, I immediately think of FPS. They are simply the FPS king. Footsteps are clear, and the open sound stage helps you pinpoint where exactly they are coming from.

You pretty much wrote everything I was too lazy to put when I wanted to explain why I was considering the AD700 :P I play 50/50 FPS and single player games where a decent amoutn of bass would be nice for atmosphere and feel. The P11's are somewhat open-ear so the soundstage ain't too shabby and I hear foodsteps pretty well in CSGO but obviously the sound quality isn't as sharp and clear as the AD700's. However, the bass has been decent enough that I am satisfied by it. What I'm wondering is how the bass is different between the two. The bass on the P11's aren't too bad actually, but that's me comparing it to nothing. Obviously the bass is weaker than the M50's but that would be a terrible comparison as the M50's a designed to have a decent amount of bass. So the real question is, does the AD700's have comparable bass compared to the P11's that it would be worth the $70-$90 upgrade for the improved sound quality :D

Thank you for your explanation :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 19 September 2013, 04:54:52
AD700s are very bass-light, unless you put some more closed pads on them—that turns them into a bass monster.

About grados... I've recently resold my SR60s with basically no loss just to get another pair. This one without any warranty, with twisted cable (common issue with grados), but otherwise in great shape. For €30, which is a steal around here. Things I want to do with them: one-sided detachable cable mod (http://youtu.be/0JHGJqfM0wE), add padding on the headband (I've ordered the $12 universal headband pad for now), replace pads by at least L-cushion (makes sound, especially treble clearer)... and possibly build an amp to boost bass a bit.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 19 September 2013, 13:57:32
AD700s are very bass-light, unless you put some more closed pads on them—that turns them into a bass monster.

About grados... I've recently resold my SR60s with basically no loss just to get another pair. This one without any warranty, with twisted cable (common issue with grados), but otherwise in great shape. For €30, which is a steal around here. Things I want to do with them: one-sided detachable cable mod (http://youtu.be/0JHGJqfM0wE), add padding on the headband (I've ordered the $12 universal headband pad for now), replace pads by at least L-cushion (makes sound, especially treble clearer)... and possibly build an amp to boost bass a bit.

All noble things to do with good headphones.  If you can't find the stuff you need in low quantities, give me a shout.  I've got canare 4 and 2 channel, the female headphone plugs and leather and felt to make headphone bands and I've no problem sending people some.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 19 September 2013, 14:11:22
Good guy tj
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 19 September 2013, 14:46:25
Ah, that's so nice of you. I'm on the other side of the Atlantic ocean though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 19 September 2013, 14:50:09
Ah, that's so nice of you. I'm on the other side of the Atlantic ocean though.

If you're ok with slow shipping or paying for speed, I still don't mind.  Int'l shipping is a breeze online.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 19 September 2013, 16:49:29
AD700s are very bass-light, unless you put some more closed pads on them—that turns them into a bass monster.

About grados... I've recently resold my SR60s with basically no loss just to get another pair. This one without any warranty, with twisted cable (common issue with grados), but otherwise in great shape. For €30, which is a steal around here. Things I want to do with them: one-sided detachable cable mod (http://youtu.be/0JHGJqfM0wE), add padding on the headband (I've ordered the $12 universal headband pad for now), replace pads by at least L-cushion (makes sound, especially treble clearer)... and possibly build an amp to boost bass a bit.

All noble things to do with good headphones.  If you can't find the stuff you need in low quantities, give me a shout.  I've got canare 4 and 2 channel, the female headphone plugs and leather and felt to make headphone bands and I've no problem sending people some.

Are the female headphone plugs what I'd need to do a cable mod on my M50's?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 19 September 2013, 17:32:53
AD700s are very bass-light, unless you put some more closed pads on them—that turns them into a bass monster.

About grados... I've recently resold my SR60s with basically no loss just to get another pair. This one without any warranty, with twisted cable (common issue with grados), but otherwise in great shape. For €30, which is a steal around here. Things I want to do with them: one-sided detachable cable mod (http://youtu.be/0JHGJqfM0wE), add padding on the headband (I've ordered the $12 universal headband pad for now), replace pads by at least L-cushion (makes sound, especially treble clearer)... and possibly build an amp to boost bass a bit.

All noble things to do with good headphones.  If you can't find the stuff you need in low quantities, give me a shout.  I've got canare 4 and 2 channel, the female headphone plugs and leather and felt to make headphone bands and I've no problem sending people some.

Are the female headphone plugs what I'd need to do a cable mod on my M50's?

To make your headphone cable detachable you will need 1 female and 1 male headphone, or trs (different name, same thing), set.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dragonxx21 on Thu, 19 September 2013, 18:59:22
Any fostex modders in here?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 19 September 2013, 19:12:18
ill miss you fiio e17, i loved you while i had you. but i need a better keyboard.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 21 September 2013, 01:36:10
They have returned, and they are glorious.  I used a bit of 2-part urethane to fill the cable/plug gap.
(http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae270/tjcaustin/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg~original) (http://s978.photobucket.com/user/tjcaustin/media/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sat, 21 September 2013, 02:14:52
They have returned, and they are glorious.  I used a bit of 2-part urethane to fill the cable/plug gap.
(http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae270/tjcaustin/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg~original) (http://s978.photobucket.com/user/tjcaustin/media/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg.html)

I have no clue what I'm looking at right now but those colors are giving me a boner; I want it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sat, 21 September 2013, 02:51:01
To revisit an old discussion...

My wallet really hates me for this, but...

Show Image
(http://s21.postimg.org/h32okx4vb/SRM_T1_1.jpg)


Gotta say, this stock-condition SR-Lambda is quite the improvement over the "beater" Lambda with rebuilt drivers I've had for the last two years.

I don't notice a dramatic improvement using the SRM-T1 in place of that receiver and the SRD-7/SB, but I suppose it's to be expected. The biggest changes in sound quality tend to happen with the headphones themselves, not the amps.

My friend picked up a pair of those plus amp at a garage sale for $6.  I hate him.   :))
Though now I have Sennheiser HD600s which are slightly better overall.  I still payed way more than $6 for them though.
An entire Stax system-with direct-drive amp-for $6? Lucky son of a...

As for the HD600s being better, I'm quite skeptical of that claim, but a lot of this stuff's down to personal preference...plus I've never heard an HD600. Or any other Sennheiser set, for that matter. (But I'd love to audition that modified Unipolar 2000 set that's got a Head-Fi thread, along with the famed Orpheus systems.)

All I know is that I didn't like the HE-400 or SR-202 all that much by comparison due to their inferior midrange reproduction. I don't like my vocals raspy and recessed.

Yep.  The Sennheiser HD600 is better than any other full sized headphones around the same price.  The SR-Lambda has better transparency and speed, but has very weak bass presence compared to the HD600.  I went on a quest a few years ago to find the best affordable headphone and spent $1k + on headphones A-Bing them along with a sound engineer, and I'm quite sure of what I heard.  We both concluded that while the HD600 isn't the best in class for anything in particular, they're excellent in that they don't have any problems that the other headphones had, such as Beyerdynamics having a spike in the frequency response in the 8-8.5 kHz range, which is responsible for overemphasizing the 's' sound and producing too much sibilance.  I haven't tried any planarmagnetic headphones though, so I can't compare any of those.  I point everyone to this thread: http://www.head-fi.org/t/634201/battle-of-the-flagships-58-headphones-compared-update-audeze-lcd-2-revision-2-6-4-13 (http://www.head-fi.org/t/634201/battle-of-the-flagships-58-headphones-compared-update-audeze-lcd-2-revision-2-6-4-13) because I agree 100% with all the reviews of all the headphones I've listened to, including the order he ranked them in.
I mostly bring this up because of Mad Lust Envy's recent comments that the MA900 is very similar in overall sound signature to the HD650, albeit with a much more vast soundstage.

The HD650 is not an HD600, I know; it's even considered worse in many ways due to the sound signature changes. But if the HD600 still has the soundstage deficiency, I'd consider that a major disadvantage against the SR-Lambda, especially for gaming. Binaural mixes need some space to do their thing well.

The HD800, on the other hand...I'll have to try that set out at some point, but being a set that costs $1,000+ by itself and is expected to be used with dedicated amplification, that puts it in the "too damn expensive" region for my tastes. Yes, I say this even as a Stax owner; it's what keeps me on Lambda-series sets instead of stepping up to Omega-series ones. (And if need be, I can learn to live with just the MA900.)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 21 September 2013, 03:16:08
They have returned, and they are glorious.  I used a bit of 2-part urethane to fill the cable/plug gap.
(http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae270/tjcaustin/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg~original) (http://s978.photobucket.com/user/tjcaustin/media/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg.html)

I have no clue what I'm looking at right now but those colors are giving me a boner; I want it.

Those are my CIEMs.  JHAudio JH13pros with a custom cable made by your's truly.

Cable - cryo stranded OCC copper, handbraided with white/orange/red mdpc-x sleeving.  Yes, it's as pretentious as it sounds.  Yes, I do sell these through mimic-cables.


I mostly bring this up because of Mad Lust Envy's recent comments that the MA900 is very similar in overall sound signature to the HD650, albeit with a much more vast soundstage.

The HD650 is not an HD600, I know; it's even considered worse in many ways due to the sound signature changes. But if the HD600 still has the soundstage deficiency, I'd consider that a major disadvantage against the SR-Lambda, especially for gaming. Binaural mixes need some space to do their thing well.

The HD800, on the other hand...I'll have to try that set out at some point, but being a set that costs $1,000+ by itself and is expected to be used with dedicated amplification, that puts it in the "too damn expensive" region for my tastes. Yes, I say this even as a Stax owner; it's what keeps me on Lambda-series sets instead of stepping up to Omega-series ones. (And if need be, I can learn to live with just the MA900.)

Check out thecableco.com if you want to demo high end gear without paying full price.

5% of retail gets you a two week rental, so those hd800s cost ~$100 (you pay shipping both ways).  If you decide you don't want them, you send them back and can use that 5% as a credit for anything in their inventory (other headphones, amps (that you can rent, too), cables and the like.)

Had I not found a stellar deal on the lcd2 I'm waiting on, I'd have more first hand experience.  I may still rent a pair of hd800s, lcd-3s and some high end grados (I know, not a fair comparison, but grado has done me extremely well recently as a company).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sat, 21 September 2013, 03:34:59
They have returned, and they are glorious.  I used a bit of 2-part urethane to fill the cable/plug gap.
(http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae270/tjcaustin/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg~original) (http://s978.photobucket.com/user/tjcaustin/media/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg.html)

I have no clue what I'm looking at right now but those colors are giving me a boner; I want it.

Those are my CIEMs.  JHAudio JH13pros with a custom cable made by your's truly.

Cable - cryo stranded OCC copper, handbraided with white/orange/red mdpc-x sleeving.  Yes, it's as pretentious as it sounds.  Yes, I do sell these through mimic-cables.

mfw I googled these and they turned out to be $1k in ear phones... I want them more now but I know I'll never own one :))

Also, I sure do love me my mdpc-x :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 21 September 2013, 12:42:04
They have returned, and they are glorious.  I used a bit of 2-part urethane to fill the cable/plug gap.
(http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae270/tjcaustin/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg~original) (http://s978.photobucket.com/user/tjcaustin/media/Cables/IMG_1060_zps80960db7.jpg.html)

I have no clue what I'm looking at right now but those colors are giving me a boner; I want it.

Those are my CIEMs.  JHAudio JH13pros with a custom cable made by your's truly.

Cable - cryo stranded OCC copper, handbraided with white/orange/red mdpc-x sleeving.  Yes, it's as pretentious as it sounds.  Yes, I do sell these through mimic-cables.

mfw I googled these and they turned out to be $1k in ear phones... I want them more now but I know I'll never own one :))

Also, I sure do love me my mdpc-x :D

They're singularly the second best thing I put in my ear next to q-tips to keep them clean to ensure proper sound and headphone maintenance.

The good thing about JH is they start at $400 for good sounding stuff and go from there. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 21 September 2013, 13:08:01
Ignore this post see botton reply
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 21 September 2013, 13:08:30
You shouldn't put q tips in your ear. Says so on the box

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sat, 21 September 2013, 13:41:20
You shouldn't put q tips in your ear. Says so on the box

They're bastards bc they obviously designed them purely to be put in the ear but put that warning there just so they can't be sued lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sat, 21 September 2013, 15:17:40
Check out thecableco.com if you want to demo high end gear without paying full price.

5% of retail gets you a two week rental, so those hd800s cost ~$100 (you pay shipping both ways).  If you decide you don't want them, you send them back and can use that 5% as a credit for anything in their inventory (other headphones, amps (that you can rent, too), cables and the like.)

Had I not found a stellar deal on the lcd2 I'm waiting on, I'd have more first hand experience.  I may still rent a pair of hd800s, lcd-3s and some high end grados (I know, not a fair comparison, but grado has done me extremely well recently as a company).
Hmmm, can't seem to find the rental option. Doesn't help that their headphone section link gives me a 404.

Still, I'd consider it. Only problem is, they don't stock 6N6P/ECC99 tubes that I could spend that store credit on, and I've considered possibly doing that mod to my SRM-T1 some time down the line to turn it into a quasi-SRM-600LTD.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 21 September 2013, 15:26:18
http://www.thecableco.com/Product/NEW-Headphone-Lending-Library
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 21 September 2013, 21:06:01
DT770S HERE I COME
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 23 September 2013, 18:28:31
Got a pair of used hd600 today.  Good sound, but in the back of my head, I'm thinking that I've heard better out of my he400 and know my jh13pros walk 'em.  But that last one is an unfair comparison.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Tue, 24 September 2013, 14:24:37
Got the $12 cushion headband pads I bought a while ago at eBay. They look nearly the same as the DT 770 pad in the pictures, but they're much softer (and probably easier to damage as well) IRL. HD565s are super comfy now¹, and it's definitely an improvement in case of SR60s too, although I haven't had comfort issues in this case (except for weird clamping with standard cushion).

¹ The original padding was in disgusting shape after 15 years of use, and new wasn't available anymore. I'm too lazy to try to make the HD600 pad fit...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Tue, 24 September 2013, 17:13:22
So I spent about 2 hours or so reading about replacing the stock ear pads on the ATH-M50's... oh man is there quite the debate on there :)) The pleather ear pads on the M50 are nice and soft but do tend to get quite warm, enough to be uncomfortable with long use. So, I've been looking for replacements and the best fits seem to be the Shure 840 and 940, and Beyerdynamic 250 velour ear pads. However, the biggest debate seems to revolve around the change in sound and how some of them make the bass too strong or too weak. It makes sense that the stock ear pads are designed to be the best sounding for the M50's but do you guys have any experiences and recommendations?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 24 September 2013, 17:27:59
Bass... too strong? Unpossible.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Tue, 24 September 2013, 17:32:29
Bass... too strong? Unpossible.

:)) Well, I think the majority of the problem came with losing most of the bass because of sound leaking with non pleather ear cushions. People were semi-remedying the situation by placing tape and what not on the insides of velour pads but removing the stock pleather earpads would ultimately mess with the right balance of sound because the M50's were designed to be closed-ear hp's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Sun, 29 September 2013, 00:47:35
Well my Crossfade LPs are falling apart now so I think I'm going to pull the trigger on a pair of ATH-AD900Xs and a Schiit Magni. I'd really like to try out some Grados, since their sound seems to be exactly what I'd like, but I'd like to get something that I can wear all day comfortably, so I'm a little unsure about how the Grados will feel. Something tells me this won't be the only pair of headphones I purchase in the near future, so I'm not too worried about it  :))

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 29 September 2013, 01:00:23
Well my Crossfade LPs are falling apart now so I think I'm going to pull the trigger on a pair of ATH-AD900Xs and a Schiit Magni. I'd really like to try out some Grados, since their sound seems to be exactly what I'd like, but I'd like to get something that I can wear all day comfortably, so I'm a little unsure about how the Grados will feel. Something tells me this won't be the only pair of headphones I purchase in the near future, so I'm not too worried about it  :))

Join the tour and try a pair of grados for a week, then!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Sun, 29 September 2013, 01:26:12
Well my Crossfade LPs are falling apart now so I think I'm going to pull the trigger on a pair of ATH-AD900Xs and a Schiit Magni. I'd really like to try out some Grados, since their sound seems to be exactly what I'd like, but I'd like to get something that I can wear all day comfortably, so I'm a little unsure about how the Grados will feel. Something tells me this won't be the only pair of headphones I purchase in the near future, so I'm not too worried about it  :))

Join the tour and try a pair of grados for a week, then!

Totally forgot about the tour. Just posted in the thread  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Sun, 29 September 2013, 01:30:13
Grados are painful.  You need "around ear" headphones if you're going to wear them all day, not "on ear".
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NamelessPFG on Sun, 29 September 2013, 05:00:14
There's a reason I don't look at supra-aural headphones...I can't stand anything touching my ears for long. For that matter, I don't see how anyone else can tolerate it for extended periods of time.

The Sony MA900 is a strange exception to this, probably because the main circumaural pad provides most of the support. If that pad ring were thicker, the cushion in front of the driver wouldn't even be touching my ears.

Also, here's some surprising impressions from the don of the Stax Mafia himself: (http://www.head-fi.org/t/676272/the-entry-level-stax-thread/480#post_9836353)

Quote from: spritzer
The first few times I heard the HD800 it was all off some opamp garbage and they sounded terrible.  Give them a good amp and they truly shine...

Prior to the HD800 there wasn't a whole lot of choice out there.  Never liked the R10 all that much (too bloody colored), the HP1000 is a one trick pony and the comfort is horrible, HD600 is astounding for the price but a bit dull and that was it really.  A SR-Lambda or LNS more than holds its own against all of those.

Even he doesn't think too badly of the HD600, albeit not good enough to compete with vintage Lambdas.

Obviously, your mileage WILL vary; nobody agrees on audio equipment past a certain point.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 29 September 2013, 12:24:40
Grados are painful.  You need "around ear" headphones if you're going to wear them all day, not "on ear".

I'm going to disclose this first:  I'm not trying to be combative and in fact, that's what I'm attempting to avoid in general with this infusion of headphone talk to geekhack.

Actual reply:

To/for *you*.  The sr225i that I have that are in the tour have the L-cushions and I have worn them for 8 hours continuously with no discomfort.  I'm all for people telling other people their experiences, but let's not get into "need to"s or "have to"s and what not for other people's listening experiences.  Sound is subjective enough without it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 02 October 2013, 14:08:57
Accidently posted this in the Headphone Amp/DAC thread. (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=47925.msg1062297#msg1062297) But my question remains:

...speaking of Grados, does anyone have a good mod for L-cushion style pads? The L-cushions I bought sound better than the S cushions or comfies. But the S-cush/comfies were way more comfortable for me. I've washed both with hair conditioner to soften it. And then I turned the L-cushions inside out and put them on the cans. That seemed to work great but I'll have to try wearing them for a few hours. Was wondering if people had any other ideas though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 02 October 2013, 17:52:58
People have tried L-cushions upside down or covered with some sort of tape, I don't think it changes comfort though. It's rather about the material. Personally, I like it more than S-cushion, because my ears don't get so hot then.

Sigh, I want to try G-cushion some day.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Wed, 02 October 2013, 19:11:10
My rant on ultrasone:
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=47925.msg1063051#msg1063051
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 02 October 2013, 19:46:35
Pity the fact I have to decide which 2 of this pile I'm keeping.
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEwGHs.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CommunistWitchDr on Wed, 02 October 2013, 20:08:53
Pity the fact I have to decide which 2 of this pile I'm keeping.
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEwGHs.jpg)


Came pretty close to getting a lcd-2 or he-500 myself, ended up deciding on an Alpha Dog instead. Still need to pick out an amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 02 October 2013, 20:15:53
Pity the fact I have to decide which 2 of this pile I'm keeping.
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEwGHs.jpg)


Came pretty close to getting a lcd-2 or he-500 myself, ended up deciding on an Alpha Dog instead. Still need to pick out an amp.

At one point, I was contemplating keeping the IEMs, one of the open back set in that pic and getting something closed like alpha or mad dogs.  Then focal put out the new spirit pro line and I have a soft spot for the focal sound in general.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Thu, 03 October 2013, 10:43:00
Pity the fact I have to decide which 2 of this pile I'm keeping.
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEwGHs.jpg)


Damn, son. just sell them all and get LCD-3s :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 03 October 2013, 13:01:39
Pity the fact I have to decide which 2 of this pile I'm keeping.
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEwGHs.jpg)


Damn, son. just sell them all and get LCD-3s :P

you shut your mouth.

<4
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: raspiguy on Tue, 08 October 2013, 17:22:57
Well my Crossfade LPs are falling apart now
You need "around ear" headphones if you're going to wear them all day, not "on ear".
@PointyFox
I think that that kind of 'around-ear'/on-ear generalization is a little misleading -- I own HE-500s, HD600s, & M-80s, and by comparison, the non-clamping featherweight of the M-80s @ 187grams is welcome relief -- from either the heavy HE-500s (500grams) or the clamping HD600s (260grams) -- when I get up & am walking around after several hours with my desktop setup.  With a lot of the big open-back models, no matter how well-distributed the pressure, it still feels more like 'on-head' after several hours.  The only generalization about all-day comfort that I would take seriously is that you need to switch up where you're applying the pressure in the general vicinity of the ear.  And yes, of the three, the longest I can go with, by far, is the M-80s.

@Comrade
Your Crossfade LPs didn't have the Steelflex headband implemented in the M-80s or M-100s -- if you bought them from an authorized dealer, have you considered using the "Immortal Life" program to get a 40% off coupon for any other model?  It definitely sounds like you would be eligible, and either 'M' model would be a huge step up in SQ from the LPs.  I consider it V-Moda's biggest marketing blunder that people think the Steelflex band is solely for durability -- it's a huge, huge plus for fit adjustment/customization & clamp minimization.  Not many headphones have that degree of fit alteration built-in as a calculated design feature.  Anybody that tells you they can wear their Sennheiser HD6*0 all day long is probably leaving out the fact that they had to relieve the clamp by bending the metal in the sliding mechanism, which is always a risky way to adjust a headphone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: raspiguy on Tue, 08 October 2013, 17:37:55
At one point, I was contemplating keeping the IEMs, one of the open back set in that pic and getting something closed like alpha or mad dogs.  Then focal put out the new spirit pro line and I have a soft spot for the focal sound in general.
Aside from one extra open back set, that's the exact lineup I'm working towards -- already have the HE-500 and HD600+Crack, and now need the CIEMs and Alpha Dog.  Wondering what model/ kind of amp you liked using with your HE-500s?

Pity the fact I have to decide which 2 of this pile I'm keeping.
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEwGHs.jpg)

Came pretty close to getting a lcd-2 or he-500 myself, ended up deciding on an Alpha Dog instead. Still need to pick out an amp.

What amps are you deciding between for the Alpha Dog?  I've been interested since the announcement but haven't done much research yet on potential pairings.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CommunistWitchDr on Tue, 08 October 2013, 18:45:12
What amps are you deciding between for the Alpha Dog?  I've been interested since the announcement but haven't done much research yet on potential pairings.

Ended up getting a Violectric V100 used for a couple hundred off retail. I'll tell you how well it plays with the dog.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 08 October 2013, 18:45:44
At one point, I was contemplating keeping the IEMs, one of the open back set in that pic and getting something closed like alpha or mad dogs.  Then focal put out the new spirit pro line and I have a soft spot for the focal sound in general.
Aside from one extra open back set, that's the exact lineup I'm working towards -- already have the HE-500 and HD600+Crack, and now need the CIEMs and Alpha Dog.  Wondering what model/ kind of amp you liked using with your HE-500s?

Pity the fact I have to decide which 2 of this pile I'm keeping.
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEwGHs.jpg)

Came pretty close to getting a lcd-2 or he-500 myself, ended up deciding on an Alpha Dog instead. Still need to pick out an amp.

What amps are you deciding between for the Alpha Dog?  I've been interested since the announcement but haven't done much research yet on potential pairings.

I use a schiit asgard with everything.  My line up now is JH13pros/dx50 for portable and lcd-2/asgard for home listening.  I've got a pair of focal spirit professionals, but not sure if they're staying yet or not.  They sound great, just a little small for my head.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 08 October 2013, 18:57:40
Got the k702s yesterday and got the balanced adapters to use with my nfb-10es2 today. Not really liking the k702s. Kinda bright with a wide, but somewhat incoherent soundstage. Mids could be better as well, and is slightly lacking in the bass department.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 08 October 2013, 19:01:25
Got the k702s yesterday and got the balanced adapters to use with my nfb-10es2 today. Not really liking the k702s. Kinda bright with a wide, but somewhat incoherent soundstage. Mids could be better as well, and is slightly lacking in the bass department.

k702s are stupid picky on source I've found and not the easiest to drive, either.  When everything lines up, I like them, but it's not the easiest of things to do.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SNF on Wed, 09 October 2013, 17:47:01
I've used

1)Sony-7506

-My go to headphones, good price, good peformance

2)Sennheiser 280

-Sound is good, price is good but comfort level isnt that great for me, hurts after a while

3)Sennheiser HD-25ii

-Super light and great sound quality, the price tag is heavy however  :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: angelic_sedition on Wed, 16 October 2013, 16:59:59
Rocking a pair of pro dj 100s right now. Not the best headphones, but they are great for the price and come with a lifetime warranty (I've already had them replaced for free once).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ynrozturk on Wed, 16 October 2013, 17:47:11
Lost my Shure SE 215K's over the weekend  :(

I am a pretty sad panda because of it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TLSC.wipeOut on Wed, 16 October 2013, 18:18:41
Are the Audio Technica ATH-T400 any good? It's currently on massdrop with the lowest price at $36.99.
Any feedback on its performance would be nice =D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 16 October 2013, 18:35:46
Are the Audio Technica ATH-T400 any good? It's currently on massdrop with the lowest price at $36.99.
Any feedback on its performance would be nice =D

They're alright, but for that price tier, I'd say http://www.monoprice.com/Product?c_id=108&cp_id=10823&cs_id=1082302&p_id=8323&seq=1&format=2 or http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SE-A1000-Over-Ear-Stereo-Headphones/dp/B0033PROOY/ref=pd_rhf_gw_s_t_5 would be a better option
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Wed, 23 October 2013, 19:45:38
Got these 2 days back! Thanks Demik for the awesome price! After a couple hours of testing, I must say, these are pretty awesome! I'm not much of an audiophile, so I can't give any detailed or accurate comparisons, but compared to my ATH-M50, the soundstage on these are great! I was wanting something for gaming and movies, which the M50s weren't so ideal for, and the A900X definitely fits that bill.  I only own the Fiios E6 amplifier, so I probably haven't been able to test the A900X to it's maximum potential but even with these, they sound very satisfying. Still have a great amount of testing that needs to be done though!

Also, the wing system is perfect for my huge head!!! Feels so good. I also wish the pleather on the the ATH-M50 was as good as the one on the M50s :))

(http://i.imgur.com/rSFLw18.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/T1BOs2e.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 24 October 2013, 01:24:04
I also wish the pleather on the the ATH-M50 was as good as the one on the M50s :))

I see...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 24 October 2013, 01:27:21
I also wish the pleather on the the ATH-M50 was as good as the one on the M50s :))

I see...

LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL :)) :)) :))

Mistakes were made lolol. Sorry, meant to say I wish the pleather on the M50s were as good and remained as soft as the one on the A900X :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 24 October 2013, 02:15:45
I also wish the pleather on the the ATH-M50 was as good as the one on the M50s :))

I see...

LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL :)) :)) :))

Mistakes were made lolol. Sorry, meant to say I wish the pleather on the M50s were as good and remained as soft as the one on the A900X :))

As a note, the velour pads for the srh940 fit well on the m50s and didn't seem to mess with the sound.  Plus quite comfortable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 24 October 2013, 02:24:32
I also wish the pleather on the the ATH-M50 was as good as the one on the M50s :))

I see...

LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL :)) :)) :))

Mistakes were made lolol. Sorry, meant to say I wish the pleather on the M50s were as good and remained as soft as the one on the A900X :))

As a note, the velour pads for the srh940 fit well on the m50s and didn't seem to mess with the sound.  Plus quite comfortable.

Ooo really? I do have it saved in my amazon wish list because I read they were probably the best substitute for the M50s. I spent like hours reading on head-fi 10's of pages of threads about replacement velour pads for the M50s without any real concrete answers anywhere. All of them said you lose significant amounts of bass, and even messed with mids. I'll take your word for it and buy me a set in the near future! Thanks! Good to hear this from first hand experience. This would make the M50s two times better because my only complaint with the M50s is the hardened pleather pads. They're already awesome as is but this fix will make them absolutely amazing. *rubs hands together*

Just to make sure, they fit easily and safely on them, right? I would hate to buy a set for $25-30 and have them rip on me because I'm stretching them on :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 24 October 2013, 15:42:37
I also wish the pleather on the the ATH-M50 was as good as the one on the M50s :))

I see...

LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL :)) :)) :))

Mistakes were made lolol. Sorry, meant to say I wish the pleather on the M50s were as good and remained as soft as the one on the A900X :))

As a note, the velour pads for the srh940 fit well on the m50s and didn't seem to mess with the sound.  Plus quite comfortable.

Ooo really? I do have it saved in my amazon wish list because I read they were probably the best substitute for the M50s. I spent like hours reading on head-fi 10's of pages of threads about replacement velour pads for the M50s without any real concrete answers anywhere. All of them said you lose significant amounts of bass, and even messed with mids. I'll take your word for it and buy me a set in the near future! Thanks! Good to hear this from first hand experience. This would make the M50s two times better because my only complaint with the M50s is the hardened pleather pads. They're already awesome as is but this fix will make them absolutely amazing. *rubs hands together*

Just to make sure, they fit easily and safely on them, right? I would hate to buy a set for $25-30 and have them rip on me because I'm stretching them on :(

If anything, they're slightly loose.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Masterchief79 on Thu, 24 October 2013, 16:01:12
Hey guys, just combobreaking, I'm still 100% satisfied with my Sennheiser HD600 :)
Sound is cool and everything, but another cool advantage which doesn't really get recognized is: You can use them anywhere. They are very portable and don't break easily because some cable being stuck under some book or anything. Build quality is awesome. Plus: They are open headphones and nevertheless you dont hear a thing from the outside. My girlfriend sat beside me in the Inter City Express (German highspeed train), where it's extremely silent. She read a book and didn't even hear me blasting Metallica at full volume (not that this would mean a lot on an iPod touch, but you get the idea).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 24 October 2013, 16:46:05
Hey guys, just combobreaking, I'm still 100% satisfied with my Sennheiser HD600 :)
Sound is cool and everything, but another cool advantage which doesn't really get recognized is: You can use them anywhere. They are very portable and don't break easily because some cable being stuck under some book or anything. Build quality is awesome. Plus: They are open headphones and nevertheless you dont hear a thing from the outside. My girlfriend sat beside me in the Inter City Express (German highspeed train), where it's extremely silent. She read a book and didn't even hear me blasting Metallica at full volume (not that this would mean a lot on an iPod touch, but you get the idea).

I wanted to really like the hd600 for this reason.  They're light and comfortable, but I just didn't enjoy it as much as the he400s I had at the time, let alone the lcd-2 or mad dogs I have now.  OTOH, the mad dogs are very similar in terms of lightness and comfort, so I'd call it a wash.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: 127001 on Thu, 24 October 2013, 17:11:07
Figured I'd share these here since most of the time people don't know what they are.
Here are my UE11 Pro's:
(http://i.imgur.com/zoB8NTU.jpg?1)

I know they're decadent but they make working in a data-center an absolute pleasure.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 24 October 2013, 17:13:23
Figured I'd share these here since most of the time people don't know what they are.
Here are my UE11 Pro's:
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/zoB8NTU.jpg?1)


I know they're decadent but they make working in a data-center an absolute pleasure.

The predecessor to the uerm... nice!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: 127001 on Thu, 24 October 2013, 17:19:09
The predecessor to the uerm... nice!

They are awesome. Worth the cost. If these break someday I'll definitely spring for the UE 18's
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 24 October 2013, 19:59:44
The predecessor to the uerm... nice!

They are awesome. Worth the cost. If these break someday I'll definitely spring for the UE 18's

They're not as good as the UERMs or jh13pro, to be honest (from what I've read).  They get real muddy and kinda bleh for the price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 24 October 2013, 20:00:53
The UE18's bass is way too prominent and overshadows the rest of the frequency range, kinda like the jh16.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheFlyingRaccoon on Mon, 28 October 2013, 18:10:05
I was thinking of getting a pair of AKG Q701s for my birthday. Right now I have Beyer DT770 250ohms and I'm looking for a nice pair of open cans to change it up a bit. Chain is UCA202-> O2 amp at the moment. Budget is pretty high, I'm just looking for the "sweet spot". Any recommendations other than the AKG Q701s?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 28 October 2013, 18:14:29
Not the AKGs-- you could get some orthos, high end sennys, or and the list goes on... just no akg... nooo
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 28 October 2013, 18:15:17
but akg so pretty ; ;

hd600s will be my next purchase i think

missed out on that pair that went for 200 on headfi :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 28 October 2013, 18:19:10
I was thinking of getting a pair of AKG Q701s for my birthday. Right now I have Beyer DT770 250ohms and I'm looking for a nice pair of open cans to change it up a bit. Chain is UCA202-> O2 amp at the moment. Budget is pretty high, I'm just looking for the "sweet spot". Any recommendations other than the AKG Q701s?

The Q701s are good, but they've got a relatively weak bass reproduction.

List of alternatives w/links for used:
ATH-AD900X http://www.head-fi.org/t/686788/fs-audio-technica-ath-ad900x-ath-ws99-ath-cks1000-ath-m50-all-near-mint-condition-price-drop
HD600
HE400 (and/or 500) http://www.head-fi.org/t/685902/denon-ah-d7000-sold-hifiman-he-400
DT-990 pro 250ohm (since you have the 770s already) http://www.head-fi.org/t/686937/beyer-dt990-250-senn-hd598
Any grado

I feel like that list could be longer, but I can't think of anything else I'd spend money on now that's open unless you start talking 4 digits.  There's been an influx of used hd600 going for some crazy low prices recently on head-fi, too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheFlyingRaccoon on Mon, 28 October 2013, 18:47:17
The Q701s are good, but they've got a relatively weak bass reproduction.

List of alternatives w/links for used:
ATH-AD900X http://www.head-fi.org/t/686788/fs-audio-technica-ath-ad900x-ath-ws99-ath-cks1000-ath-m50-all-near-mint-condition-price-drop
HD600
HE400 (and/or 500) http://www.head-fi.org/t/685902/denon-ah-d7000-sold-hifiman-he-400
DT-990 pro 250ohm (since you have the 770s already) http://www.head-fi.org/t/686937/beyer-dt990-250-senn-hd598
Any grado

I feel like that list could be longer, but I can't think of anything else I'd spend money on now that's open unless you start talking 4 digits.  There's been an influx of used hd600 going for some crazy low prices recently on head-fi, too.

Thanks for the list! Hopefully I'll be able to get a good deal used from head-fi.

but akg so pretty ; ;

hd600s will be my next purchase i think

missed out on that pair that went for 200 on headfi :(

$200? Daaaaamn that's cheap.  :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Mon, 28 October 2013, 18:50:29
The Q701s are good, but they've got a relatively weak bass reproduction.

List of alternatives w/links for used:
ATH-AD900X http://www.head-fi.org/t/686788/fs-audio-technica-ath-ad900x-ath-ws99-ath-cks1000-ath-m50-all-near-mint-condition-price-drop
HD600
HE400 (and/or 500) http://www.head-fi.org/t/685902/denon-ah-d7000-sold-hifiman-he-400
DT-990 pro 250ohm (since you have the 770s already) http://www.head-fi.org/t/686937/beyer-dt990-250-senn-hd598
Any grado

I feel like that list could be longer, but I can't think of anything else I'd spend money on now that's open unless you start talking 4 digits.  There's been an influx of used hd600 going for some crazy low prices recently on head-fi, too.

Thanks for the list! Hopefully I'll be able to get a good deal used from head-fi.

but akg so pretty ; ;

hd600s will be my next purchase i think

missed out on that pair that went for 200 on headfi :(

$200? Daaaaamn that's cheap.  :eek:

Got mine for $320 used, including some fancy cable.  I sold the cable for $160 and bought a regular one for $25, so mine were essentially $185 ;P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheFlyingRaccoon on Tue, 29 October 2013, 15:59:15
So I ended up going with the HE-400s. Got them for $300, not bad! Seller also included velour pads so I'll be sure to test those out. I'll make sure to post pictures and my first impressions when I get them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 29 October 2013, 16:01:09
So I ended up going with the HE-400s. Got them for $300, not bad! Seller also included velour pads so I'll be sure to test those out. I'll make sure to post pictures and my first impressions when I get them.

You'll enjoy them.  Especially at that smokin' deal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dustinhxc on Tue, 29 October 2013, 17:51:51
(http://i563.photobucket.com/albums/ss71/Froddan/DSCF2899.jpg)

I use the ZAGG ZR-Six Earbuds, most $ Iv'e spent on Earbuds but worth it!  :thumb:  $59.99
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheFlyingRaccoon on Tue, 29 October 2013, 18:57:18
Show Image
(http://i563.photobucket.com/albums/ss71/Froddan/DSCF2899.jpg)


I use the ZAGG ZR-Six Earbuds, most $ Iv'e spent on Earbuds but worth it!  :thumb:  $59.99

Those look nice! Definitely worth it to spend money on decent IEMs. I have a pair of Meelectronics A151s myself.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheFlyingRaccoon on Fri, 01 November 2013, 18:04:28
Got my HE-400s in the mail today! I like them so far. I'll be posting pictures and a first impression soon.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 01 November 2013, 18:08:25
Oh sh!t here it comes :|
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Fri, 01 November 2013, 18:44:25
These paired with a fiio e10
(http://cdn.overclock.net/b/b1/900x900px-LL-b165b669_DSC_0102.jpeg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dustinhxc on Fri, 01 November 2013, 19:25:28
My ZAGG headphones aux end is having trouble staying in stereo so im getting a free lifetime warrantied replacement woo!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 01 November 2013, 22:40:37
So as to not clutter his FS thread -

Its been sitting in a box for over a year ever since I got it. My main keyboards are topres, and I just purchased a pair of sennheiser hd800s so I need some funding. PM me offers and I'll think about selling them.

Extra feedback @ head-fi:
http://www.head-fi.org/classifieds/feedback/index/user_id/337814

Nice, I got a pair, too.  I like them, I just don't think I like them with the stock cable as much as my lcd-2.  That's in terms of sound alone as I like a little more low end bump.  They're so comfortable, though, I'm debating selling the lcd-2 anyways and getting mad dogs upgraded to alpha dogs.  I'm also looking into the mods available to get that low end up a bit and need to make a new cable as I think the SPC is part of my issue (they also feel kinda harsh sounding to my ear, but I'm treble sensitive, too).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 01 November 2013, 22:47:27
So as to not clutter his FS thread -

Its been sitting in a box for over a year ever since I got it. My main keyboards are topres, and I just purchased a pair of sennheiser hd800s so I need some funding. PM me offers and I'll think about selling them.

Extra feedback @ head-fi:
http://www.head-fi.org/classifieds/feedback/index/user_id/337814

Nice, I got a pair, too.  I like them, I just don't think I like them with the stock cable as much as my lcd-2.  That's in terms of sound alone as I like a little more low end bump.  They're so comfortable, though, I'm debating selling the lcd-2 anyways and getting mad dogs upgraded to alpha dogs.  I'm also looking into the mods available to get that low end up a bit and need to make a new cable as I think the SPC is part of my issue (they also feel kinda harsh sounding to my ear, but I'm treble sensitive, too).

Ahh, they already arrived? I have a modified Zu cable coming in for them later this week, along with my hd800s. I don't really believe in sound differences between cables, but I will see. Look into the anax 2.0 mod, it is available on changstar.com. You'll need to register an account there though. I will be making the mod for myself once the materials come in.

Btw, I'll probably be sending your lcd2s back to you either tomorrow or by Monday.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 01 November 2013, 22:54:14
So as to not clutter his FS thread -

Its been sitting in a box for over a year ever since I got it. My main keyboards are topres, and I just purchased a pair of sennheiser hd800s so I need some funding. PM me offers and I'll think about selling them.

Extra feedback @ head-fi:
http://www.head-fi.org/classifieds/feedback/index/user_id/337814

Nice, I got a pair, too.  I like them, I just don't think I like them with the stock cable as much as my lcd-2.  That's in terms of sound alone as I like a little more low end bump.  They're so comfortable, though, I'm debating selling the lcd-2 anyways and getting mad dogs upgraded to alpha dogs.  I'm also looking into the mods available to get that low end up a bit and need to make a new cable as I think the SPC is part of my issue (they also feel kinda harsh sounding to my ear, but I'm treble sensitive, too).

Ahh, they already arrived? I have a modified Zu cable coming in for them later this week, along with my hd800s. I don't really believe in sound differences between cables, but I will see. Look into the anax 2.0 mod, it is available on changstar.com. You'll need to register an account there though. I will be making the mod for myself once the materials come in.

Btw, I'll probably be sending your lcd2s back to you either tomorrow or by Monday.

I've already got the pdf for the anax 2.0 cutouts.  I can tell a difference between copper/silver, but from there, it gets hazy with a change of perception bias.  They're so damn comfortable, though.  I look forward to doing direct comparisons between lcd-2 and them before making up my mind completely, though.  The lcd-2 were getting more and more uncomfortable before I sent them to you so we'll see.

Also, I'm pretending it's cool that you got a cable from someone else.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 05 November 2013, 15:08:40
The hd800s with the anax 2.0 warm rings are simply amazing on the NFB-10es2, and I haven't even gotten my zu cable yet. Right now I feel like the modded hd800s are like the UERM on steroids. Just better in sound in pretty much every way. The stock sound was too bright for me and the neutral rings helped a lot but I much prefer the warm rings.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 05 November 2013, 15:16:22
Yeah I wasn't a huge fan of the stock Hd800 when I auditioned way back. Would love to try the Anax mod and his and Purrins upcoming(I believe) version 3 mod of the HD800.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 05 November 2013, 15:24:25
The hd800s with the anax 2.0 warm rings are simply amazing on the NFB-10es2, and I haven't even gotten my zu cable yet. Right now I feel like the modded hd800s are like the UERM on steroids. Just better in sound in pretty much every way. The stock sound was too bright for me and the neutral rings helped a lot but I much prefer the warm rings.

Good to hear.  These things are so comfy.  I just wish the cable hadn't been damaged in transit so I could listen to them without getting irritated every time I turn my head.

I'm fairly sure my lcd-2 are going up for sale now.  Alpha dog reviews are coming in with favorable comparisons to the lcd-2 and if they're as comfortable as mad dogs, I'm completely sold and hopefully done with this cycle of headphones stuff.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 05 November 2013, 15:34:20
I'd love to get the anax 3.0 once they're released hopefully by the end of this month. The CSDs are just sick. It sucks that your cable got damaged; HD800 connectors are expensive at $50 a pair from moon-audio.

I definitely much prefer the modded hd800s over the lcd2s. And of course, the hd800s are super comfy too and don't touch my ears. Value wise though... the HD800s are ridiculously expensive haha, the hd600s are a better value. Purrin says that the alpha dogs have a peaky treble that's similar to an unmodded hd800. I guess I will hear for myself this Saturday. I doubt I'll use any closed headphone over my UERMs though.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 05 November 2013, 15:39:29
I'd love to get the anax 3.0 once they're released hopefully by the end of this month. The CSDs are just sick. It sucks that your cable got damaged; HD800 connectors are expensive at $50 a pair from moon-audio.

I definitely much prefer the modded hd800s over the lcd2s. And of course, the hd800s are super comfy too and don't touch my ears. Value wise though... the HD800s are ridiculously expensive haha, the hd600s are a better value. Purrin says that the alpha dogs have a peaky treble that's similar to an unmodded hd800. I guess I will hear for myself this Saturday. I doubt I'll use any closed headphone over my UERMs though.

Yeah, I tried to salvage the OE connectors and it just wasn't happening so I broke down and bought a pair last night.  Fortunately, the guy I bought them from was cool and refunded me the purchase price of a pair of connectors.

I probably use my JH13pros more for iso than anything else, but I like having options and I like the planar sound a lot.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CommunistWitchDr on Tue, 05 November 2013, 18:31:45
I'm fairly sure my lcd-2 are going up for sale now.  Alpha dog reviews are coming in with favorable comparisons to the lcd-2 and if they're as comfortable as mad dogs, I'm completely sold and hopefully done with this cycle of headphones stuff.

I wouldn't be opposed to sending you the alpha dogs I ordered for a few days to let you a/b with the lcd if you do the same with the lcd for me, depending on shipping costs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 05 November 2013, 19:09:52
I'm fairly sure my lcd-2 are going up for sale now.  Alpha dog reviews are coming in with favorable comparisons to the lcd-2 and if they're as comfortable as mad dogs, I'm completely sold and hopefully done with this cycle of headphones stuff.

I wouldn't be opposed to sending you the alpha dogs I ordered for a few days to let you a/b with the lcd if you do the same with the lcd for me, depending on shipping costs.

I would be amenable to this
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jevvix on Thu, 07 November 2013, 03:07:53
New member checking in...
Had the plastic Sennheiser HD280's that broke in under a year. What garbage those were, sound and build quality. Currently rocking ATH A700 powered by an HT Omega Claro. Had this setup for years now and it's served me quite well.

(oh, and use an AD2020 microphone too)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 07 November 2013, 12:01:06
So I got my cable yesterday. It seemed to have tamed the hd800's treble and now I am back to using the neutral rings. There's a perfect balance in bass, mids, and treble now with the Zu cable and the neutral anax 2.0 rings.

The only true upgrade to the hd800s are the sr-009s, which will cost upwards of $10k for the headphones and amp. Even then, the hd800s will still excel in soundstage and imaging. Last night I listened to the live version of Hotel California from Hell Freezes Over and I was amazed by the hd800's imaging capabilities. It made me feel like I was part of the audience; I was able to pinpoint where each instrument was coming from, and plus I was able to feel that the audience was clapping right next to me as I listened.

That being said, the rest of the headphones in the $1000-$2000 range are really just side-grades, with different flavors. Sacrificing one strength for another's. I don't see myself wanting a HE-6, Audeze, or T1 any time over the HD800s.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 07 November 2013, 12:08:50
So I got my cable yesterday. It seemed to have tamed the hd800's treble and now I am back to using the neutral rings. There's a perfect balance in bass, mids, and treble now with the Zu cable and the neutral anax 2.0 rings.

The only true upgrade to the hd800s are the sr-009s, which will cost upwards of $10k for the headphones and amp. Even then, the hd800s will still excel in soundstage and imaging. Last night I listened to the live version of Hotel California from Hell Freezes Over and I was amazed by the hd800's imaging capabilities. It made me feel like I was part of the audience; I was able to pinpoint where each instrument was coming from, and plus I was able to feel that the audience was clapping right next to me as I listened.

That being said, the rest of the headphones in the $1000-$2000 range are really just side-grades, with different flavors. Sacrificing one strength for another's. I don't see myself wanting a HE-6, Audeze, or T1 any time over the HD800s.
Well I didn't like the LCD-2 or the T1 at all really, haven't heard the HE-6 or LCD-3's though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smeagol_RP on Thu, 07 November 2013, 12:28:41
What closed full-size headphone you indicate up to $100?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 07 November 2013, 12:41:13
What closed full-size headphone you indicate up to $100?

I would suggest finding a rebrand of the Fischer FA-003.  They range from $60-$120.

I just got some Fischer FA-003 Ti yesterday and compared them with my Mad Dogs.

There is a quality of Orthodynamic drivers that I just can not escape.  The sound HITS you in a way that I have not been able to experience with a dynamic driver.

I was able to EQ the Fischers by rolling off a bit of the high end and the neutral quality matched that of the mad-dogs.  Don't get me wrong-- there is incredibly accurate bass response, but there were some high frequencies which cut the mix perfectly even when subdued a couple db.  Even with the audio reproduction being incredibly similar there was a sterile, fun, quality of the sound pressure in the phones which just didn't HIT me like the mad-dogs would.

Between the two there is a $100 difference.  IF that means a lot to an end-user I would definitely recommend the Fischer FA-003 Ti as a neutral, light weight, easy to drive, and comfortable headphone.

FA-003 (Jaycar version/Yoga CD880) $50 - http://www.jaycar.us/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&w=AA2065&form=KEYWORD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smeagol_RP on Thu, 07 November 2013, 12:46:53
What closed full-size headphone you indicate up to $100?

I would suggest finding a rebrand of the Fischer FA-003.  They range from $60-$120.

I just got some Fischer FA-003 Ti yesterday and compared them with my Mad Dogs.

There is a quality of Orthodynamic drivers that I just can not escape.  The sound HITS you in a way that I have not been able to experience with a dynamic driver.

I was able to EQ the Fischers by rolling off a bit of the high end and the neutral quality matched that of the mad-dogs.  Don't get me wrong-- there is incredibly accurate bass response, but there were some high frequencies which cut the mix perfectly even when subdued a couple db.  Even with the audio reproduction being incredibly similar there was a sterile, fun, quality of the sound pressure in the phones which just didn't HIT me like the mad-dogs would.

Between the two there is a $100 difference.  IF that means a lot to an end-user I would definitely recommend the Fischer FA-003 Ti as a neutral, light weight, easy to drive, and comfortable headphone.

Thanks for all that info.  :)

Where did you buy yours?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 07 November 2013, 12:47:33
What closed full-size headphone you indicate up to $100?

I would suggest finding a rebrand of the Fischer FA-003.  They range from $60-$120.

I just got some Fischer FA-003 Ti yesterday and compared them with my Mad Dogs.

There is a quality of Orthodynamic drivers that I just can not escape.  The sound HITS you in a way that I have not been able to experience with a dynamic driver.

I was able to EQ the Fischers by rolling off a bit of the high end and the neutral quality matched that of the mad-dogs.  Don't get me wrong-- there is incredibly accurate bass response, but there were some high frequencies which cut the mix perfectly even when subdued a couple db.  Even with the audio reproduction being incredibly similar there was a sterile, fun, quality of the sound pressure in the phones which just didn't HIT me like the mad-dogs would.

Between the two there is a $100 difference.  IF that means a lot to an end-user I would definitely recommend the Fischer FA-003 Ti as a neutral, light weight, easy to drive, and comfortable headphone.

Thanks for all that info.  :)

Where did you buy yours?

Just edited my post.  You can look for Jaycar re-brands of the Fischer FA-003 http://www.jaycar.us/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&w=AA2065&form=KEYWORD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 07 November 2013, 14:55:40
Or you could get what can be turned into the mad dogs through mr. speakers, the fostex t50rp.  On their own, they're ok, but they can be modded to do some insane stuff.

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SE-A1000-Over-Ear-Stereo-Headphones/dp/B0033PROOY/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1383857685&sr=8-15&keywords=pioneer+headphones These are solid as well, but I've only read reviews, I haven't had the need to demo them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 07 November 2013, 15:45:55
If you like diy Fostex T50rp is the way to go for under a hundred dollars, otherwise I tend to stay away from full-size phones in this price range as IEM's are of much higher value under a hundred bucks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 07 November 2013, 16:42:15
Trust me-- there are people who will disagree with you on that point.  IEMs are not the budget hi-fi
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 07 November 2013, 17:31:24
I'd agree IEMs are the better value under $100. Vsonic VSD1/1s and RE-400 ftw.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 07 November 2013, 17:33:48
I just got a pair of Audio Technica T400's and I'm not satisfied. The bass sounds okay but the mids are muffled and the highs aren't.....there.

Can anyone suggest a really good pair of $50 cans?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 07 November 2013, 18:07:37
Just edited my post.  You can look for Jaycar re-brands of the Fischer FA-003 http://www.jaycar.us/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&w=AA2065&form=KEYWORD

See the above link.  Great cans
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 07 November 2013, 19:27:53
buy demik's package >.>
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 07 November 2013, 20:09:34
buy demik's package >.>

Help this poor kid pay for law school.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 07 November 2013, 20:11:58
thank you gunner!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 18 November 2013, 01:23:52
So I've had my hd800s for a couple weeks now and I was immediately impressed with the detail and feel when I got them, but I've got enough bass head in me that I wanted a little more so I was still missing my lcd-2 (at the time with thegunner).

But the comfort was awesome.  One of the best things I've put around my ears, seriously. And that made me look into what mods I could do to get things a little more pleasing to my ears.

I've replaced the silver plated copper cable (SPC is said to contribute to a bright sound signature) with an OCC copper braided cable (8 threads for those that are interested). I've also done the Anax 2.0 mod that's on changstar.

Guys, I'm in love.  Favorite headphone now.

That's why my lcd-2 are for sale now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 18 November 2013, 01:32:53
Needs moar bass
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 18 November 2013, 01:36:28
Needs moar bass

You'd hear two 18"s and think it needs more bass, sooo...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 18 November 2013, 01:39:11
True true
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 18 November 2013, 06:09:56
So I've had my hd800s for a couple weeks now and I was immediately impressed with the detail and feel when I got them, but I've got enough bass head in me that I wanted a little more so I was still missing my lcd-2 (at the time with thegunner).

But the comfort was awesome.  One of the best things I've put around my ears, seriously. And that made me look into what mods I could do to get things a little more pleasing to my ears.

I've replaced the silver plated copper cable (SPC is said to contribute to a bright sound signature) with an OCC copper braided cable (8 threads for those that are interested). I've also done the Anax 2.0 mod that's on changstar.

Guys, I'm in love.  Favorite headphone now.

That's why my lcd-2 are for sale now.

I felt like switching the cable and using balanced drive on my nfb-10es2 helped with the treble. More likely the cause of balanced drive rather than the cable itself, but who knows. Anax 2.0 = win. Can't wait for 3.0. Too bad most people on head-fi are too stubborn/ignorant to know what anax 2.0 is and complain about the hd800's treble  :llama:

That being said, the hd800s are definitely end game for me ^^
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 18 November 2013, 10:22:27
TJ, send me your LCD2s and let me contemplate owning them  :-\
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Mon, 18 November 2013, 10:24:54
So...does anyone think I could do the Anax mod on my Grados? Would that even help? Seems like it would tone down the high end and increase the bass, both of which seem good. :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 18 November 2013, 10:35:23
So...does anyone think I could do the Anax mod on my Grados? Would that even help? Seems like it would tone down the high end and increase the bass, both of which seem good. :D

The anax 2.0 mod works on the hd800 because it was made specifically for the hd800s. The foam effectively increases the baffle size to prevent bass from leaking out and the rug liner is used as a dampening material. I think you should probably look into getting wooden cups for your grados.

http://www.head-fi.org/t/686212/the-great-grado-experiment-4-tonewoods-tested-more-to-come
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Mon, 18 November 2013, 10:50:09
I was wondering why people were so into the wood cups. Thought it was for the looks but thanks for the read thegunner100 :D. I should make my own ^__^.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Mon, 18 November 2013, 15:13:20
A nice pair of wooden grados are supposed to be pretty balanced  :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 27 November 2013, 23:47:05
http://www.audeze.com/products/headphones/lcd-xc (http://www.audeze.com/products/headphones/lcd-xc)
[attachimg=1]
sploosh indeed
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 27 November 2013, 23:53:38
http://www.audeze.com/products/headphones/lcd-xc (http://www.audeze.com/products/headphones/lcd-xc)
(Attachment Link)
sploosh indeed

^

Might be the thing that gets me back to audez'e
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Thu, 28 November 2013, 00:04:08
http://www.audeze.com/products/headphones/lcd-xc (http://www.audeze.com/products/headphones/lcd-xc)
(Attachment Link)
sploosh indeed

^

Might be the thing that gets me back to audez'e

Gunmetal and purpleheart hnnnngggggggg
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 28 November 2013, 02:13:18
So I'm thinking of getting some ultrasone pro900 to see if those satisfy my bass needs.

Good idea or bad idea?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 28 November 2013, 02:46:32
So anyone try the LCD-X?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 28 November 2013, 06:44:58
So I'm thinking of getting some ultrasone pro900 to see if those satisfy my bass needs.

Good idea or bad idea?

Noooo, don't do it!

So anyone try the LCD-X?

Yeah they're decent, but overpriced imo.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 28 November 2013, 08:11:02
So I'm thinking of getting some ultrasone pro900 to see if those satisfy my bass needs.

Good idea or bad idea?

Noooo, don't do it!

So anyone try the LCD-X?

Yeah they're decent, but overpriced imo.
What do you suggest? Currently have a pair of mad dogs but even though I like them... bass could be better.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 28 November 2013, 08:11:51
Fostex TH-900 for bass :DD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 28 November 2013, 08:28:40
> Google th900
> see price
> Nopenopenope

Let me rephrase my question.. suggestions for around 200-300 lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 28 November 2013, 08:29:41
What do you suggest? Currently have a pair of mad dogs but even though I like them... bass could be better.

What amp/dac do you have? I think the Phillips Fidelio X1 or the Beyerdynamic dt770/80ohm pro would be a MUCH better choice than the pro900. Those two headphones are more balanced (still with a bass emphasis), with the X1 winning over the dt770 in most areas.

http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-770-PRO-80-ohms/dp/B0016MNAAI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1385648902&sr=8-4&keywords=dt770
http://www.amazon.com/Philips-X1-28-Fidelio-Headphones/dp/B00B3QD94O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385648923&sr=8-1&keywords=philip+x1

The dt990 is another great choice as well, and would be similiar sounding than the pro900 but with much cleaner bass (with good quantity as well), EQ'able treble (it is initially high, but not piercing like the pro900), and of course cheaper than the pro900 as well. The 250ohm pro is the way to go with the dt990.

http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-DT-990-Pro-250-Professional-Acoustically-Applications/dp/B0011UB9CQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385648896&sr=8-1&keywords=dt990

Edit: if you're only interested in closed headphones, than go for the dt770/80ohm pro. A used pair will go for round $140 or so.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 28 November 2013, 08:35:23
Wearing Fidelio X1 right now and theyre have very good bass, especially for an open headphone. But its noty basshead levels to me. They are of exceptional value though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 28 November 2013, 08:37:33
Wearing Fidelio X1 right now and theyre have very good bass, especially for an open headphone. But its noty basshead levels to me. They are of exceptional value though.

Yeah... the dt990 has the most bass quantity out of any open headphone. It's amazing how they can produce so much bass for an open headphone. The X1's bass isn't too far behind in quantity though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 28 November 2013, 08:39:42
Yeah they're my casual pc headphones and excel at that :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 28 November 2013, 08:54:14
Right now using a magni/modi set up
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 28 November 2013, 09:34:35
Right now using a magni/modi set up

That would work well with all of the headphones, but a tube amp would be nicer for bass. Grab one of the three headphones and then maybe a Vali down the line, once some impressions come in.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 28 November 2013, 12:01:47
If you want closed headphones I heard the B&W P7 are supposed to be good and atleast close to that price range,
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 28 November 2013, 12:23:57
He has/had a pair of dt770s and there wasn't enough bass.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 28 November 2013, 12:29:21
He has/had a pair of dt770s and there wasn't enough bass.

Was it the 80ohm pro? The 80ohm pro has different dampening materials inside, and is much bassier than the other models.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 28 November 2013, 12:32:44
He has/had a pair of dt770s and there wasn't enough bass.

Was it the 80ohm pro? The 80ohm pro has different dampening materials inside, and is much bassier than the other models.

600ohm pros.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 28 November 2013, 12:47:56
He has/had a pair of dt770s and there wasn't enough bass.

Was it the 80ohm pro? The 80ohm pro has different dampening materials inside, and is much bassier than the other models.

600ohm pros.

"DT770 / 80Ohm: Has and enclosed/vented magnet area but nothing covering the driver. The enclosed magnet area should reduce the soundstage and lead to having more bass impact. The center of said enclosure is open in the center and has a sort of felt inlay in it. Also this model, as other DT770 models, has the additional plastic ring that goes around the magnet and is covered with felt as well as a bass port on each cup. This model is tuned a lot differently than the other DT770 models."

http://www.head-fi.org/t/513393/guide-sonic-differences-between-dt770-dt990-models-more
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 28 November 2013, 18:35:33
The he-300 are a possibility as well, going for only $150 right now on sale. They're supposedly very bassy. Never tried them out myself though, so I don't really know for sure.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 28 November 2013, 18:46:15
That's almost worth the price to try.

I almost bit on the th600 from headamp.  I might still, but that alpha dog price is staying my hand at the moment.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 28 November 2013, 19:03:15
He has/had a pair of dt770s and there wasn't enough bass.

This
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 28 November 2013, 19:05:34
He has/had a pair of dt770s and there wasn't enough bass.

This

Oh yeah... I forgot. So dt990/250 pro, X1, or he-300 then.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Thu, 28 November 2013, 23:18:10
He has/had a pair of dt770s and there wasn't enough bass.

This

If you want bass so much, just get a pair of Beats bro.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 29 November 2013, 10:27:59
CommunistWitchDr owns the X1s... he seems REALLY pleased with the bass response, and he says it is quite heavy.  You may want to PM him for his feelings on the device.

As for the Vali- don't look to this tube setup to "warm" your music.  The hybrid amplifier is very nice, but extremely neutral.  It is not designed to show "tube" distortion at all.  The tubes are ultra-low microphonic, supurbly low THD, and are being used as a component in a solid state amp... they are not used for gain at all.

The vali does sound magnificent though :) I took some HD pictures of the Vali/Modi and my father took the time yesterday to explain the circuits to me.  I retained what I consider to be the important caveats, but there was a bit my pleb brain could not contain.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 29 November 2013, 10:36:35
CommunistWitchDr owns the X1s... he seems REALLY pleased with the bass response, and he says it is quite heavy.  You may want to PM him for his feelings on the device.

As for the Vali- don't look to this tube setup to "warm" your music.  The hybrid amplifier is very nice, but extremely neutral.  It is not designed to show "tube" distortion at all.  The tubes are ultra-low microphonic, supurbly low THD, and are being used as a component in a solid state amp... they are not used for gain at all.

The vali does sound magnificent though :) I took some HD pictures of the Vali/Modi and my father took the time yesterday to explain the circuits to me.  I retained what I consider to be the important caveats, but there was a bit my pleb brain could not contain.

Yes, the Vali is on the bright side of tubes from what I've read.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 29 November 2013, 10:42:57
CommunistWitchDr owns the X1s... he seems REALLY pleased with the bass response, and he says it is quite heavy.  You may want to PM him for his feelings on the device.

As for the Vali- don't look to this tube setup to "warm" your music.  The hybrid amplifier is very nice, but extremely neutral.  It is not designed to show "tube" distortion at all.  The tubes are ultra-low microphonic, supurbly low THD, and are being used as a component in a solid state amp... they are not used for gain at all.

The vali does sound magnificent though :) I took some HD pictures of the Vali/Modi and my father took the time yesterday to explain the circuits to me.  I retained what I consider to be the important caveats, but there was a bit my pleb brain could not contain.

Yes, the Vali is on the bright side of tubes from what I've read.

you could say that... I guess a lot of tube systems are warm.  These are not being utilized to make a tube sound.  The plate voltage is 40% below spec.  This is basically going to create nil harmonic distortion/coloring.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 29 November 2013, 10:48:24
Even then, the overall THD is pretty high from an amp. Doesn't really matter as long as it sounds good haha. My onkyo tx-8255 stereo receiver has .08% THD and its headphone out sounds pretty good with the hd800s :P

The Vali is also said to have the Eddie Current house sound, and is tubes done right. Solid State without the solid state glare. Supposedly.

Edit: for the less informed, .08% THD is high for a non-tube amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 29 November 2013, 14:16:54
Even then, the overall THD is pretty high from an amp. Doesn't really matter as long as it sounds good haha. My onkyo tx-8255 stereo receiver has .08% THD and its headphone out sounds pretty good with the hd800s :P

Dude.. THD is low for a tube solution under $500 and even then THD can be balanced with circuitry.  Bringing your SS stereo receiver into this is really confusing... yes sounding good is important.  Sounding "correct" is more important.  If you want to know I care about clarity and separation of instruments.  An instrument which was there in the recording and does not cut the mix the way it was intended is an upsetting occurrence whenever I listen to a bad system.

I am thinking of a few particular songs which require a lot of color from the system to sound decent... the biggest issue with that is the songs to which I am referring are that they were poorly recorded.  That is not correct.  The Vali is a low distortion, very neutral sounding, tube pre into a SS power amplifier.   Whatever,

The Vali is also said to have the Eddie Current house sound, and is tubes done right. Solid State without the solid state glare. Supposedly.

^ this **** actually means.  I don't care if it is praise.  This is the most pretentious phrase and one of the reasons I have stayed away from posting in these places for so long.  >.< arg you have no idea how frustrating it must be for someone who doesn't know about/can't afford to listen to an Eddie Current setup to read this.  They have to take that comparison as something of substance.  It means ****squat.  Less than zilch.  Solid state without the glare?  Can you describe this in terms which mean a -- fuuuUUUUUUuuuUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU

/me takes a deep breath.

Bro, what does it matter that you figure your neat receiver has less than 1% of 1% thd and vali with less than 1% thd can sound "good" when you explain it to others in those terms?  What good does it do to mask your knowledge and experience behind a veil of jargon?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 29 November 2013, 14:41:19
...what? I didn't mean to start an argument haha. I think you misunderstood me. We all have our preferences and I don't care what the THD value is. Obviously the THD value on the stereo receiver is high, and it is apparent when I listen to it and compare it to my uha-6s mkii, but it still sounds good. The receiver was only like $180 anyways.

Calm down. I'm only restating what I've read, and not from head-fi either. I guess if you really have a problem with this, then take it up with me through PM but I don't mean to be pretentious or anything. I feel like I have gathered some pretty good experience over the year or so that I've been in this hobby, at least with the gear under $1k. I've never heard any EC amps either but if the $119 Vali can sound similar (not necessarily better) to a $1800 EC amp and I like how it sounds, then great. If not, $119.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 29 November 2013, 14:53:52
This!  This anyone can understand even without previous knowledge/relation to the head-fi community  :-*

Next time I'll be less vocal now that I get where you're coming from.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Sat, 30 November 2013, 23:58:39
Soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo....how about them headphones?

First of next year I'm looking to buy a nice amp and headphones for around $300. Any suggestions? I've owned a pair of AKG K-702's but I'm looking for something that has on par sound without requiring as much power.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Sun, 01 December 2013, 00:08:28
Anyone have experience with the Schiit Vali? The reviews seem really promising but I don't know how it will fare on a desk that's not built like a tank. Will there be tube noise when typing, or when the desk rocks? I have no experience with tube amps and was wondering if the tubes make noise when changing the volume as well.

If not the Vali, I might be looking into the Magni but the Vali seems very good for the price. These will be paired with AKG Q701s and HiFiMan HE-400s. Thanks.

Edit: Going to be mainly listening to EDM / electronica, but also every other genre.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 01 December 2013, 00:14:43
Soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo....how about them headphones?

First of next year I'm looking to buy a nice amp and headphones for around $300. Any suggestions? I've owned a pair of AKG K-702's but I'm looking for something that has on par sound without requiring as much power.

I would say try to find a pair of pioneer se-a1000 (less than $50 new on amazon, great headphone) or audez'e he-300 (they're new for 150 on amazon currently) and a schiit vali/modi(dac).  If you can fudge the numbers a bit higher than $300, grab the audez'e he-400 for $299 and just the vali for now.  My personal choice would be the last at the $300ish price.

You might also be able to pick up a pair of Mr. Speakers Mad Dogs for the 200-250 range used.

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SE-A1000-Over-Ear-Stereo-Headphones/dp/B0033PROOY/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&srs=2530157011&ie=UTF8&qid=1385878049&sr=1-11&keywords=pioneer+headphones

http://www.amazon.com/HiFiMAN-HE-300-HiFiMan-Headphones/dp/B00667F7OK/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1385878130&sr=1-1&keywords=he-300

http://www.amazon.com/HiFiMAN-HE-400-HiFiMan-Headphones/dp/B007ZG32I4/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1385878180&sr=1-2&keywords=he-300

http://schiit.com/products/vali

Anyone have experience with the Schiit Vali? The reviews seem really promising but I don't know how it will fare on a desk that's not built like a tank. Will there be tube noise when typing, or when the desk rocks? I have no experience with tube amps and was wondering if the tubes make noise when changing the volume as well.

If not the Vali, I might be looking into the Magni but the Vali seems very good for the price. These will be paired with AKG Q701s and HiFiMan HE-400s. Thanks.



From everything I've read so far, including chats with binge, microphonics are fairly non-existant except during turn on/off and plugging headphones in.  Schiit has a decent return policy as well if you aren't fully happy and could get the magni if that doesn't work out how you'd like.  I used the magni with the he-400s extensively and I was happy with the combination.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Sun, 01 December 2013, 00:19:51
Soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo....how about them headphones?

First of next year I'm looking to buy a nice amp and headphones for around $300. Any suggestions? I've owned a pair of AKG K-702's but I'm looking for something that has on par sound without requiring as much power.

I would say try to find a pair of pioneer se-a1000 (less than $50 new on amazon, great headphone) or audez'e he-300 (they're new for 150 on amazon currently) and a schiit vali/modi(dac).  If you can fudge the numbers a bit higher than $300, grab the audez'e he-400 for $299 and just the vali for now.  My personal choice would be the last at the $300ish price.

You might also be able to pick up a pair of Mr. Speakers Mad Dogs for the 200-250 range used.

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SE-A1000-Over-Ear-Stereo-Headphones/dp/B0033PROOY/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&srs=2530157011&ie=UTF8&qid=1385878049&sr=1-11&keywords=pioneer+headphones

http://www.amazon.com/HiFiMAN-HE-300-HiFiMan-Headphones/dp/B00667F7OK/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1385878130&sr=1-1&keywords=he-300

http://www.amazon.com/HiFiMAN-HE-400-HiFiMan-Headphones/dp/B007ZG32I4/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1385878180&sr=1-2&keywords=he-300

http://schiit.com/products/vali

Anyone have experience with the Schiit Vali? The reviews seem really promising but I don't know how it will fare on a desk that's not built like a tank. Will there be tube noise when typing, or when the desk rocks? I have no experience with tube amps and was wondering if the tubes make noise when changing the volume as well.

If not the Vali, I might be looking into the Magni but the Vali seems very good for the price. These will be paired with AKG Q701s and HiFiMan HE-400s. Thanks.



From everything I've read so far, including chats with binge, microphonics are fairly non-existant except during turn on/off and plugging headphones in.  Schiit has a decent return policy as well if you aren't fully happy and could get the magni if that doesn't work out how you'd like.  I used the magni with the he-400s extensively and I was happy with the combination.

Thanks for the quick reply. My main worry is the microphonics; mainly when changing volume/typing. On/off and plugging in shouldn't be much of an issue, but how long does it take for the sound to go away if the chassis is disturbed?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 01 December 2013, 00:59:56
Thanks for the quick reply. My main worry is the microphonics; mainly when changing volume/typing. On/off and plugging in shouldn't be much of an issue, but how long does it take for the sound to go away if the chassis is disturbed?

With most tubes the microphonics dissipate quickly once you warm the unit up.  For the best results... turn the volume knob to 0, turn on with headphones plugged in, listen for the initial ringing once the relay kicks on.  You will hear the ringing... it will fade.  When it is almost inaudible play some audio and turn it up gradually to your desired level.  This will prevent microphonics from looping in your device when starting it up from room temp.  I created myself a small 2 tier stand for my vali... but it isn't really needed.  Make sure you put the little rubber feet on the bottom and put it on top of something else with rubber dampening/foam under it.  wooden block on 1/4"foam would do fine. I have a typing tray next to my vali on a dampened tiered stand.  No problems at all.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Sun, 01 December 2013, 01:24:47
Thanks for the quick reply. My main worry is the microphonics; mainly when changing volume/typing. On/off and plugging in shouldn't be much of an issue, but how long does it take for the sound to go away if the chassis is disturbed?

With most tubes the microphonics dissipate quickly once you warm the unit up.  For the best results... turn the volume knob to 0, turn on with headphones plugged in, listen for the initial ringing once the relay kicks on.  You will hear the ringing... it will fade.  When it is almost inaudible play some audio and turn it up gradually to your desired level.  This will prevent microphonics from looping in your device when starting it up from room temp.  I created myself a small 2 tier stand for my vali... but it isn't really needed.  Make sure you put the little rubber feet on the bottom and put it on top of something else with rubber dampening/foam under it.  wooden block on 1/4"foam would do fine. I have a typing tray next to my vali on a dampened tiered stand.  No problems at all.

Hmm thanks. I am a little worried about purchasing the Vali. It would be an amp that I use almost 24/7 and would be changing the volume very frequently. Like I said before, my desk isn't the most solid thing. Even my monitors sway quite a bit when I type. Do you think that would cause microphonics even after adding some dampening foam?

Are the microphonics present at all even when the amp is completely still/undisturbed?

Edit: Binge, is the stand you made on your desk? Or is it a proprietary stand off the floor?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Sun, 01 December 2013, 01:42:08
Looks like I'm going for the HiFiMAN HE-400's and the Vali.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Sun, 01 December 2013, 01:46:19
Looks like I'm going for the HiFiMAN HE-400's and the Vali.

Why aren't you just getting an amp for the K702s?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 01 December 2013, 01:48:04
modded fostex like mad dogs > HE400 any day :3 I'm a convert
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 01 December 2013, 02:14:33
Looks like I'm going for the HiFiMAN HE-400's and the Vali.

hi5

modded fostex like mad dogs > HE400 any day :3 I'm a convert

Good other option.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sun, 01 December 2013, 03:08:52
I've just missed an awesome deal on NIB DT990s (not Pro)... It was a steal at €80.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aj-kun on Sun, 01 December 2013, 04:45:49
:o a headphone thread
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Sun, 01 December 2013, 07:04:06
Never really been a fan of orthos. He-400 @ $300 is probably a good deal, though I've never heard it on a desktop setup. I hope you enjoy your purchase though. My Vali has already arrived at my school, assuming my school's mail room didn't mess anything up.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Sun, 01 December 2013, 17:54:23
He has/had a pair of dt770s and there wasn't enough bass.

This

I tried them out and the bass extension was weak like it is for the 880 and 990 as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Wed, 04 December 2013, 19:25:43
Has anyone ordered from Schiit to Canada? I am asking because I am fearful of customs charges although there shouldn't be any because of NAFTA. Schiit's products are made in America so we aren't supposed to get charged customs at all. When I emailed Schiit, they said they have had mixed responses with customs so I was wondering if anyone has any personal experiences. Thanks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 04 December 2013, 20:12:36
Has anyone ordered from Schiit to Canada? I am asking because I am fearful of customs charges although there shouldn't be any because of NAFTA. Schiit's products are made in America so we aren't supposed to get charged customs at all. When I emailed Schiit, they said they have had mixed responses with customs so I was wondering if anyone has any personal experiences. Thanks.

Would they not charge appropriate sales tax (or whatever it's called)? 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Wed, 04 December 2013, 20:13:36
Has anyone ordered from Schiit to Canada? I am asking because I am fearful of customs charges although there shouldn't be any because of NAFTA. Schiit's products are made in America so we aren't supposed to get charged customs at all. When I emailed Schiit, they said they have had mixed responses with customs so I was wondering if anyone has any personal experiences. Thanks.

Would they not charge appropriate sales tax (or whatever it's called)?

I have no clue how it works, but when I emailed them they explained that any product they shipped to Canada should be exempt from any fees.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eisenhower on Thu, 05 December 2013, 17:52:11
People in general need to start learning how to use EQ. For some reason audiophiles think it is icky or something.

Anyways, I have had my hd600 for about 8 years now (wow I can't believe it's been that long!) and they have proven to be one of the best purchases I've made. I've fussed around with different amps and DACs but at the end of the day the difference is negligible. For high ohm headphones, the amp actually has less of an effect on the sound quality because they don't drain current. You really just need something with a high enough voltage swing to reach the desired volume levels. I know this contradicts almost everything people read on places like head-fi, but that is the simple truth. FYI, don't ever go on head-fi. Those people are horribly misinformed. They would have you believe that iPods are poor audio sources. iPods are brilliant sources, so long as you are ripping your music with sufficient quality.  They would have you believe that headphones need to be "burned in" for 502350230 hours before you can listen to them. They would have you buy a new $500 headphone amplifier before tweaking EQ if more midrange is needed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 05 December 2013, 18:26:45
People in general need to start learning how to use EQ. For some reason audiophiles think it is icky or something.

Anyways, I have had my hd600 for about 8 years now (wow I can't believe it's been that long!) and they have proven to be one of the best purchases I've made. I've fussed around with different amps and DACs but at the end of the day the difference is negligible. For high ohm headphones, the amp actually has less of an effect on the sound quality because they don't drain current. You really just need something with a high enough voltage swing to reach the desired volume levels. I know this contradicts almost everything people read on places like head-fi, but that is the simple truth. FYI, don't ever go on head-fi. Those people are horribly misinformed. They would have you believe that iPods are poor audio sources. iPods are brilliant sources, so long as you are ripping your music with sufficient quality.  They would have you believe that headphones need to be "burned in" for 502350230 hours before you can listen to them. They would have you buy a new $500 headphone amplifier before tweaking EQ if more midrange is needed.

This is as bad as saying that the odac is perfectly transparent, or that placing some pebbles near your equipment will magically make them sound better. EQ is great for making minor tweaks, but not for changing the overall sound of the headphones. Yes, many people on head-fi are misinformed. No, the ipod is not a brilliant source. There are many better daps out there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eisenhower on Thu, 05 December 2013, 18:52:11
People in general need to start learning how to use EQ. For some reason audiophiles think it is icky or something.

Anyways, I have had my hd600 for about 8 years now (wow I can't believe it's been that long!) and they have proven to be one of the best purchases I've made. I've fussed around with different amps and DACs but at the end of the day the difference is negligible. For high ohm headphones, the amp actually has less of an effect on the sound quality because they don't drain current. You really just need something with a high enough voltage swing to reach the desired volume levels. I know this contradicts almost everything people read on places like head-fi, but that is the simple truth. FYI, don't ever go on head-fi. Those people are horribly misinformed. They would have you believe that iPods are poor audio sources. iPods are brilliant sources, so long as you are ripping your music with sufficient quality.  They would have you believe that headphones need to be "burned in" for 502350230 hours before you can listen to them. They would have you buy a new $500 headphone amplifier before tweaking EQ if more midrange is needed.

This is as bad as saying that the odac is perfectly transparent, or that placing some pebbles near your equipment will magically make them sound better. EQ is great for making minor tweaks, but not for changing the overall sound of the headphones. Yes, many people on head-fi are misinformed. No, the ipod is not a brilliant source. There are many better daps out there.

Saying that EQ is useful is as bad as "placing some pebbles near your equipment ..."? Are you joking? This is a perfect example of the point I was making. There is no difference between adding bass with EQ versus adding bass with a colored source or headphone. Frequency response is frequency response. I'm also not sure how you are differentiating "overall sound" with "minor tweaks". A minor tweak changes the overall sound. People spend thousands of dollars to get minor tweaks.

There are actually only a few portable DAPs that are better than the iPod. Namely, several of the sansa players that have lower output impedance. But they are worse in other areas. None of that changes the fact that the iPod is a fantastic source. If you have concrete proof otherwise (measurements) please do share. Here are measurements which say the opposite: http://www.kenrockwell.com/apple/ipod-touch-5g/audio-quality.htm
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Thu, 05 December 2013, 18:55:44
I didn't say EQ specifically. I understand the usefulness of EQ but it can't do things that better amps can do for headphones. Take your objectivism elsewhere please. Measurements don't explain everything.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eisenhower on Thu, 05 December 2013, 19:00:40
Take your objectivism elsewhere please.

Are you a moderator?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 06 December 2013, 02:03:27
People in general need to start learning how to use EQ. For some reason audiophiles think it is icky or something.

Anyways, I have had my hd600 for about 8 years now (wow I can't believe it's been that long!) and they have proven to be one of the best purchases I've made. I've fussed around with different amps and DACs but at the end of the day the difference is negligible. For high ohm headphones, the amp actually has less of an effect on the sound quality because they don't drain current. You really just need something with a high enough voltage swing to reach the desired volume levels. I know this contradicts almost everything people read on places like head-fi, but that is the simple truth. FYI, don't ever go on head-fi. Those people are horribly misinformed. They would have you believe that iPods are poor audio sources. iPods are brilliant sources, so long as you are ripping your music with sufficient quality.  They would have you believe that headphones need to be "burned in" for 502350230 hours before you can listen to them. They would have you buy a new $500 headphone amplifier before tweaking EQ if more midrange is needed.

This is as bad as saying that the odac is perfectly transparent, or that placing some pebbles near your equipment will magically make them sound better. EQ is great for making minor tweaks, but not for changing the overall sound of the headphones. Yes, many people on head-fi are misinformed. No, the ipod is not a brilliant source. There are many better daps out there.

Saying that EQ is useful is as bad as "placing some pebbles near your equipment ..."? Are you joking? This is a perfect example of the point I was making. There is no difference between adding bass with EQ versus adding bass with a colored source or headphone. Frequency response is frequency response. I'm also not sure how you are differentiating "overall sound" with "minor tweaks". A minor tweak changes the overall sound. People spend thousands of dollars to get minor tweaks.

There are actually only a few portable DAPs that are better than the iPod. Namely, several of the sansa players that have lower output impedance. But they are worse in other areas. None of that changes the fact that the iPod is a fantastic source. If you have concrete proof otherwise (measurements) please do share. Here are measurements which say the opposite: http://www.kenrockwell.com/apple/ipod-touch-5g/audio-quality.htm

please stay... science has a place.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 06 December 2013, 07:53:50
please stay... science has a place.

Science taken to the extremes is as bad as pseudoscience.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 06 December 2013, 13:01:18
The issue I see with places like head-fi is that a number of the people who want to have a voice believe that they have a hard time arguing with folks with hard facts... charts etc.  They trust their senses.  This is not a bad thing.

People with understanding of science/engineering/math etc sometimes get into these ruts where they think they are always right and there is nothing new to discover.  While this is a comfortable place it is not accurate and sometimes the people who trust their senses pick up on something proprietary which isn't discussed in common place...

There are all kinds of "mysteries" in the audio world.  Some are much more real than others.  I come from a background where I grew up around engineers and always been taught to seek the hard facts behind specs.  There are amps out there that claim ridiculous SNR.  They are actually recycling a spec from a part they use which is not accurate in their build.  There are conditions that need to be met for that part to reach its rated SNR, and they are not always taken into account...

I've also been told by the same people who taught me to question things that I need not question facts.  This is wrong.  In real science you always continue to observe.  It may be hard to prove a suspicion, but there is no reason to say that an observation is completely invalid unless tested to be false.

A lot of what we hear we can not measure except by responding to what we think we can hear.  This is not scientific by some definition but it IS the basis of scientific current "fact" about human hearing.  Without finding a happy medium where you can measure and use your own senses to analyze you will always be missing out on more than just half of the picture.

Please keep learning hackers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Fri, 06 December 2013, 13:18:44
The issue I see with places like head-fi is that a number of the people who want to have a voice believe that they have a hard time arguing with folks with hard facts... charts etc.  They trust their senses.  This is not a bad thing.

People with understanding of science/engineering/math etc sometimes get into these ruts where they think they are always right and there is nothing new to discover.  While this is a comfortable place it is not accurate and sometimes the people who trust their senses pick up on something proprietary which isn't discussed in common place...

There are all kinds of "mysteries" in the audio world.  Some are much more real than others.  I come from a background where I grew up around engineers and always been taught to seek the hard facts behind specs.  There are amps out there that claim ridiculous SNR.  They are actually recycling a spec from a part they use which is not accurate in their build.  There are conditions that need to be met for that part to reach its rated SNR, and they are not always taken into account...

I've also been told by the same people who taught me to question things that I need not question facts.  This is wrong.  In real science you always continue to observe.  It may be hard to prove a suspicion, but there is no reason to say that an observation is completely invalid unless tested to be false.

A lot of what we hear we can not measure except by responding to what we think we can hear.  This is not scientific by some definition but it IS the basis of scientific current "fact" about human hearing.  Without finding a happy medium where you can measure and use your own senses to analyze you will always be missing out on more than just half of the picture.

Please keep learning hackers.

Much more informative and reasonable than what eisenhower said.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 06 December 2013, 15:29:30
Regarding EQ- I find there to be a fundamental problem with all EQ.  EQ does not discriminate when it comes to instruments.  When albums are made each channel has its own EQ.  Some instruments contain frequency detail  which isn't meant to have a boost beyond a certain level in the track or detail of other instruments would be lost even if boosted equally.

I choose to try and get as neutral of a response as possible because I don't want to miss an instrument or nuance of that instrument.  Without some pretty high tech wizardry it is hard to get that stuff back with an EQ.  It's also very easy to go too far with the EQ and make less subtle changes.  This is probably why folks do not swear by equalization.  There is simply too much to fk up for it to be intuitive to some people.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dude on Sat, 07 December 2013, 00:43:27
Regarding EQ- I find there to be a fundamental problem with all EQ.  EQ does not discriminate when it comes to instruments.  When albums are made each channel has its own EQ.  Some instruments contain frequency detail  which isn't meant to have a boost beyond a certain level in the track or detail of other instruments would be lost even if boosted equally.

I choose to try and get as neutral of a response as possible because I don't want to miss an instrument or nuance of that instrument.  Without some pretty high tech wizardry it is hard to get that stuff back with an EQ.  It's also very easy to go too far with the EQ and make less subtle changes.  This is probably why folks do not swear by equalization.  There is simply too much to fk up for it to be intuitive to some people.

Trained audio engineer here - I would argue that your fundamental problem with EQ is not a problem at all, rather it's a common misconception about creating proper frequency response curves.  Your second statement about trying to create as neutral of a response as possible is exactly the correct approach.

EQ should really only be used to adjust the frequency response for the playback device within your room so that you hear the music back as flat as possible.  You want your listening environment to match as close as possible what the mastering engineer was hearing.  Every speaker has its own unique playback curve, and the EQ applied to it should be the inverse of that curve.  To add even more difficulty, every room also has its own playback curve which also needs to be addressed via the EQ curve.

Now with that said, sometimes your speakers/headphones are so crappy (Like my car speakers) that you have to do some extreme EQ just to mask how crappy they really are  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sat, 07 December 2013, 09:49:52
Regarding EQ- I find there to be a fundamental problem with all EQ.  EQ does not discriminate when it comes to instruments.  When albums are made each channel has its own EQ.  Some instruments contain frequency detail  which isn't meant to have a boost beyond a certain level in the track or detail of other instruments would be lost even if boosted equally.

I choose to try and get as neutral of a response as possible because I don't want to miss an instrument or nuance of that instrument.  Without some pretty high tech wizardry it is hard to get that stuff back with an EQ.  It's also very easy to go too far with the EQ and make less subtle changes.  This is probably why folks do not swear by equalization.  There is simply too much to fk up for it to be intuitive to some people.

Trained audio engineer here - I would argue that your fundamental problem with EQ is not a problem at all, rather it's a common misconception about creating proper frequency response curves.  Your second statement about trying to create as neutral of a response as possible is exactly the correct approach.

EQ should really only be used to adjust the frequency response for the playback device within your room so that you hear the music back as flat as possible.  You want your listening environment to match as close as possible what the mastering engineer was hearing.  Every speaker has its own unique playback curve, and the EQ applied to it should be the inverse of that curve.  To add even more difficulty, every room also has its own playback curve which also needs to be addressed via the EQ curve.

Now with that said, sometimes your speakers/headphones are so crappy (Like my car speakers) that you have to do some extreme EQ just to mask how crappy they really are  :)

^ It is hard to use an eq effectively imho, thanks for your input!  Please post your wisdom around these parts :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dude on Sat, 07 December 2013, 10:56:09
^ It is hard to use an eq effectively imho, thanks for your input!  Please post your wisdom around these parts :D

I suppose I should probably dive a little deeper in what I do and what I actually do for a living.  While I'm a trained audio engineer and worked in that world for a number of years, I've migrated into the video compression world (Yes, that's actually something you can do as a career).  Because of my professional AV work, I have a little more insight than most into all things video compression, HTPC, home NAS's, etc...

Perhaps I should start a few separate threads about each of my areas of expertise to help others around here...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 08 December 2013, 00:44:33
^ It is hard to use an eq effectively imho, thanks for your input!  Please post your wisdom around these parts :D

I suppose I should probably dive a little deeper in what I do and what I actually do for a living.  While I'm a trained audio engineer and worked in that world for a number of years, I've migrated into the video compression world (Yes, that's actually something you can do as a career).  Because of my professional AV work, I have a little more insight than most into all things video compression, HTPC, home NAS's, etc...

Perhaps I should start a few separate threads about each of my areas of expertise to help others around here...

I'm sure it would be appreciated.  Video compression is fascinating.  Such a tough thing to get right... you really like your balancing acts lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Sun, 08 December 2013, 10:28:59
I suppose I should probably dive a little deeper in what I do and what I actually do for a living.  While I'm a trained audio engineer and worked in that world for a number of years, I've migrated into the video compression world (Yes, that's actually something you can do as a career).  Because of my professional AV work, I have a little more insight than most into all things video compression, HTPC, home NAS's, etc...

Perhaps I should start a few separate threads about each of my areas of expertise to help others around here...

Yes please! That'd be really cool to read and learn :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dude on Mon, 09 December 2013, 10:35:47
Yes please! That'd be really cool to read and learn :D

Threads started!

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52047.0
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52085.0
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 09 December 2013, 12:16:13
Left cable to my LCD-2's just fell out. Not the actual connector, but the wire itself fell out of the connector. What the actual **** Audeze? And they cost $80 new which means I'm not gonna be able to use them until I've some extra pocket money. I always figured that since the headphones cost over 1k that the cables would be of a decent quality, or at least cone in a braided sleeve. Really miffed right now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 09 December 2013, 12:42:01
Left cable to my LCD-2's just fell out. Not the actual connector, but the wire itself fell out of the connector. What the actual **** Audeze? And they cost $80 new which means I'm not gonna be able to use them until I've some extra pocket money. I always figured that since the headphones cost over 1k that the cables would be of a decent quality, or at least cone in a braided sleeve. Really miffed right now.

Then why give them more money?

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 09 December 2013, 12:59:11
Left cable to my LCD-2's just fell out. Not the actual connector, but the wire itself fell out of the connector. What the actual **** Audeze? And they cost $80 new which means I'm not gonna be able to use them until I've some extra pocket money. I always figured that since the headphones cost over 1k that the cables would be of a decent quality, or at least cone in a braided sleeve. Really miffed right now.

Then why give them more money?



They make amazing headphones for one, hands down the favorite in my collection. I was pondering getting a custom braided cable made but they are so damn expensive, and spending a lot for audio cables is a huge pet peeve of mine. The cable that broke wasn't defective(I think.) The rubber ring guards on the end on the wire end all broke their 'ribs' (not sure how else to explain it) on one side and I guess that was a big part of what was holding it in the hole.

I was looking at this guys cables, but $150 minimum is simply insane to me. http://www.headphile.com/page16.html (http://www.headphile.com/page16.html)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 09 December 2013, 13:07:30
Left cable to my LCD-2's just fell out. Not the actual connector, but the wire itself fell out of the connector. What the actual **** Audeze? And they cost $80 new which means I'm not gonna be able to use them until I've some extra pocket money. I always figured that since the headphones cost over 1k that the cables would be of a decent quality, or at least cone in a braided sleeve. Really miffed right now.

Then why give them more money?



They make amazing headphones for one, hands down the favorite in my collection. I was pondering getting a custom braided cable made but they are so damn expensive, and spending a lot for audio cables is a huge pet peeve of mine. The cable that broke wasn't defective(I think.) The rubber ring guards on the end on the wire end all broke their 'ribs' (not sure how else to explain it) on one side and I guess that was a big part of what was holding it in the hole.

I was looking at this guys cables, but $150 minimum is simply insane to me. http://www.headphile.com/page16.html (http://www.headphile.com/page16.html)

Those are good looking splitter things.

But really, you know there's another cable seller talking to you right now, right?

http://www.mimic-cables.com/products/custom-headphone-cable

Order two if you want it braided.  Standard cable is canare starquad.

Also, I enjoy my lcd-2 quite a lot, too.  Not as much as my hd800, but I think I might like the lcd-x/xc more than them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 09 December 2013, 13:22:38
Left cable to my LCD-2's just fell out. Not the actual connector, but the wire itself fell out of the connector. What the actual **** Audeze? And they cost $80 new which means I'm not gonna be able to use them until I've some extra pocket money. I always figured that since the headphones cost over 1k that the cables would be of a decent quality, or at least cone in a braided sleeve. Really miffed right now.

Then why give them more money?



They make amazing headphones for one, hands down the favorite in my collection. I was pondering getting a custom braided cable made but they are so damn expensive, and spending a lot for audio cables is a huge pet peeve of mine. The cable that broke wasn't defective(I think.) The rubber ring guards on the end on the wire end all broke their 'ribs' (not sure how else to explain it) on one side and I guess that was a big part of what was holding it in the hole.

I was looking at this guys cables, but $150 minimum is simply insane to me. http://www.headphile.com/page16.html (http://www.headphile.com/page16.html)

Those are good looking splitter things.

But really, you know there's another cable seller talking to you right now, right?

http://www.mimic-cables.com/products/custom-headphone-cable

Order two if you want it braided.  Standard cable is canare starquad.

Also, I enjoy my lcd-2 quite a lot, too.  Not as much as my hd800, but I think I might like the lcd-x/xc more than them.

Yeah, the XC is really appealing just for the closed back, although audiophiles will argue that you only get true clarity through opened back cans. I'm actually pondering selling my 2's for a set of XC's but there's nowhere to really sample them around me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: frvrngn on Mon, 09 December 2013, 13:53:52
Any help on some cheaper IEM's?  I dont wear headphones often but I have some cheap pairs now and I am tired of how they sound.  Only pair I have left are some uber cheap ME M6's for when I am just outside doing yard work or exercising but they sound pretty terrible overall.  I had an old pair of Shures but I have no clue what the model was, they broke a long while back.

Looking at the JVC FX40A or the Soundmagic E10's - both would be run off an iPhone for sound, again we are talking casual listening!

Listen to a little bit of everything from Trance to Metal to Classical, just depends on mood.  My current home setup for in my office where I spend the majority of my time listening these days is a pair of B&W 601's paired with a small Energy sub. 

Realize what I am looking at is nowhere near the level you guys are using but was hoping for some general feedback/suggestions.  Head Fi can get a wee bit biased and crazy at times...  I have a bunch of business meetings I need to fly out for coming up early next year and want to get a pair that is decent but easy to pack and wear on the plane, cab, subway, etc.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 09 December 2013, 13:56:40
Any help on some cheaper IEM's?  I dont wear headphones often but I have some cheap pairs now and I am tired of how they sound.  Only pair I have left are some uber cheap ME M6's for when I am just outside doing yard work or exercising but they sound pretty terrible overall.  I had an old pair of Shures but I have no clue what the model was, they broke a long while back.

Looking at the JVC FX40A or the Soundmagic E10's - both would be run off an iPhone for sound, again we are talking casual listening!

Listen to a little bit of everything from Trance to Metal to Classical, just depends on mood.  My current home setup for in my office where I spend the majority of my time listening these days is a pair of B&W 601's paired with a small Energy sub. 

Realize what I am looking at is nowhere near the level you guys are using but was hoping for some general feedback/suggestions.  Head Fi can get a wee bit biased and crazy at times...  I have a bunch of business meetings I need to fly out for coming up early next year and want to get a pair that is decent but easy to pack and wear on the plane, cab, subway, etc.

Vsonics VSD1S is a great place to start. It's a bit more expensive but well worth their cost.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: frvrngn on Mon, 09 December 2013, 14:10:57
Any help on some cheaper IEM's?  I dont wear headphones often but I have some cheap pairs now and I am tired of how they sound.  Only pair I have left are some uber cheap ME M6's for when I am just outside doing yard work or exercising but they sound pretty terrible overall.  I had an old pair of Shures but I have no clue what the model was, they broke a long while back.

Looking at the JVC FX40A or the Soundmagic E10's - both would be run off an iPhone for sound, again we are talking casual listening!

Listen to a little bit of everything from Trance to Metal to Classical, just depends on mood.  My current home setup for in my office where I spend the majority of my time listening these days is a pair of B&W 601's paired with a small Energy sub. 

Realize what I am looking at is nowhere near the level you guys are using but was hoping for some general feedback/suggestions.  Head Fi can get a wee bit biased and crazy at times...  I have a bunch of business meetings I need to fly out for coming up early next year and want to get a pair that is decent but easy to pack and wear on the plane, cab, subway, etc.

Vsonics VSD1S is a great place to start. It's a bit more expensive but well worth their cost.

Price isnt bad at all but where do you buy them?  Only place I can locate so far is eBay and someplace in Singapore!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 09 December 2013, 14:13:32
http://www.lendmeurears.com/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=76

Is where I bought my pair from. They're based in singapore but have warehouses in the U.S, so it'll be quick shipping.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: frvrngn on Mon, 09 December 2013, 14:28:38
http://www.lendmeurears.com/product_info.php?cPath=15&products_id=76

Is where I bought my pair from. They're based in singapore but have warehouses in the U.S, so it'll be quick shipping.

Awesome!  I will definitely check them out.  Budget was around $50 so these are fine.  I listed the others earlier as they seemed to have excellent reviews for their price point.  More than $50 and I would rather invest in some better models.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 09 December 2013, 14:40:08
Check out joker's review on innerfidelity on them:
http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/more-less-vsonic-vsd1-and-vsd1s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eisenhower on Tue, 10 December 2013, 16:16:47
Much more informative and reasonable than what eisenhower said.

Another shining example of an informative post...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eisenhower on Tue, 10 December 2013, 16:28:10
A lot of what we hear we can not measure except by responding to what we think we can hear.  This is not scientific by some definition but it IS the basis of scientific current "fact" about human hearing.  Without finding a happy medium where you can measure and use your own senses to analyze you will always be missing out on more than just half of the picture.

I don't see how this view is contrary to an objective one. It isn't measurements v.s. listening, it is objective evaluation (blind listening tests, measurements) v.s. sighted testing with ill-defined terminology ("This new cable makes my headphones sound more musical").
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 10 December 2013, 16:46:32
So obviously, solid state amps are better than tube amps because they measure better, amirite?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eisenhower on Tue, 10 December 2013, 17:07:56
So obviously, solid state amps are better than tube amps because they measure better, amirite?

So obviously tube amps have soul and warmth and SS amps are cold and sterile?

I can make strawmen too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thegunner100 on Tue, 10 December 2013, 17:11:41
So obviously, solid state amps are better than tube amps because they measure better, amirite?

So obviously tube amps have soul and warmth and SS amps are cold and sterile?

I can make strawmen too.

Doesn't everyone know that?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 10 December 2013, 18:58:05
A lot of what we hear we can not measure except by responding to what we think we can hear.  This is not scientific by some definition but it IS the basis of scientific current "fact" about human hearing.  Without finding a happy medium where you can measure and use your own senses to analyze you will always be missing out on more than just half of the picture.

I don't see how this view is contrary to an objective one. It isn't measurements v.s. listening, it is objective evaluation (blind listening tests, measurements) v.s. sighted testing with ill-defined terminology ("This new cable makes my headphones sound more musical").

I hope I didn't seem to come off as enforcing less than objective thinking, and I hope that listeners, who trust their ears, keep trusting what they hear while continuing to learn.  Just because hearing stops does not mean that there is more to what we perceive.

That being said...  I hate bad terminology more than the next guy, but take a step back and cool your heat blasters.  How will people want to learn if they think it'll turn them into such a sourpuss?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 11 December 2013, 09:14:15
I'm currently using Monoprice 8320 earbuds and I don't like the stock tips. Was poking around and found Comply tips. Anyone have opinions on them? And maybe someone can point me to a trusted source where you can get other kinds of tips for earbuds? I'm a little leery of buying random tips I find on eBay.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Wed, 11 December 2013, 09:16:52
Comply tips dull the treble out a bit, I'm not big into foam tips since they take so long to insert properly.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mreverything on Wed, 11 December 2013, 09:18:27
+1 for the Koss PortaPros. Simple. Great.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Wed, 11 December 2013, 10:03:02
+1 for the Koss PortaPros. Simple. Great.
Eh what?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dude on Wed, 11 December 2013, 10:48:08
I'm currently using Monoprice 8320 earbuds and I don't like the stock tips. Was poking around and found Comply tips. Anyone have opinions on them? And maybe someone can point me to a trusted source where you can get other kinds of tips for earbuds? I'm a little leery of buying random tips I find on eBay.

You can buy the Comply tips from Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002P7DBCK/ref=s9_simh_gw_p23_d0_i2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1HEZPAP9RBS0Z8JN8PFK&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1630083502&pf_rd_i=507846).  I personally haven't had any issues with the stock earbuds with Monoprice or Sennheiser earbuds, but those Comply tips look quite nice.  I might have to try a pair.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bigx333 on Wed, 11 December 2013, 11:26:09
I got an email from my choice audio store saying that he got a Stax SR-007 in the store that I can sample... I kinda feel that my wallet isn't gonna survive this  :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 11 December 2013, 11:47:45
I got an email from my choice audio store saying that he got a Stax SR-007 in the store that I can sample... I kinda feel that my wallet isn't gonna survive this  :eek:

See if he has any Koss ESP 950.  I am in love with mine.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bigx333 on Wed, 11 December 2013, 11:59:45
I got an email from my choice audio store saying that he got a Stax SR-007 in the store that I can sample... I kinda feel that my wallet isn't gonna survive this  :eek:

See if he has any Koss ESP 950.  I am in love with mine.

His mostly a speaker store, when it comes to headphones he only sells Stax's.

The thing is that I'm on a honey moon with my Beyerdynamic T1 but I've the feeling that this sample is gonna ruin it  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 11 December 2013, 12:40:05
I got an email from my choice audio store saying that he got a Stax SR-007 in the store that I can sample... I kinda feel that my wallet isn't gonna survive this  :eek:

See if he has any Koss ESP 950.  I am in love with mine.

His mostly a speaker store, when it comes to headphones he only sells Stax's.

The thing is that I'm on a honey moon with my Beyerdynamic T1 but I've the feeling that this sample is gonna ruin it  :))

It will.  It most definitely will.  Be warned estats are very clean
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bigx333 on Wed, 11 December 2013, 13:22:23
I got an email from my choice audio store saying that he got a Stax SR-007 in the store that I can sample... I kinda feel that my wallet isn't gonna survive this  :eek:

See if he has any Koss ESP 950.  I am in love with mine.

His mostly a speaker store, when it comes to headphones he only sells Stax's.

The thing is that I'm on a honey moon with my Beyerdynamic T1 but I've the feeling that this sample is gonna ruin it  :))

It will.  It most definitely will.  Be warned estats are very clean

I've a Stax 307 on the office, the first time I heard I actually got impressed how clean and controlled it sounded specially considering the relatively low price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mreverything on Wed, 11 December 2013, 13:23:06
+1 for the Koss PortaPros. Simple. Great.
Eh what?
Digging up old news. Pages 1, 30, 33, 56, 61.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Loligagger on Fri, 13 December 2013, 19:18:42
I got an email from my choice audio store saying that he got a Stax SR-007 in the store that I can sample... I kinda feel that my wallet isn't gonna survive this  :eek:

Be glad it wasn't an SR-009.

(http://i.imgur.com/r4JrGpih.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Fri, 13 December 2013, 22:37:04
Need some advice from my audio peeps:

Need an Amp and set of headphones for the holidays, going to be all for me. (christmas wooo). Budget is around $200-250

CptBroAss suggested the Schiit Magni Amp , which is $100, and I've heard from some others that that's a great starting amp, so i think i might roll with that unless anyone has any other suggestions.

As for headphones, I have no idea. I was looking at the HD 598's, and at the ATH-M50s. I dont really know personally the difference between open / closed headphones, but from what i hear, i think i'm going to want closed ones. My favorite type of music is EDM, mainly trance and deep house (I think that's a factor in this)

Also need cables, I have the Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD3H mobo, not sure if that info is needed.

just looking for suggestions/ideas, thanks for the help.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Fri, 13 December 2013, 22:47:58
Need some advice from my audio peeps:

Need an Amp and set of headphones for the holidays, going to be all for me. (christmas wooo). Budget is around $200-250

CptBroAss suggested the Schiit Magni Amp , which is $100, and I've heard from some others that that's a great starting amp, so i think i might roll with that unless anyone has any other suggestions.

As for headphones, I have no idea. I was looking at the HD 598's, and at the ATH-M50s. I dont really know personally the difference between open / closed headphones, but from what i hear, i think i'm going to want closed ones. My favorite type of music is EDM, mainly trance and deep house (I think that's a factor in this)

Also need cables, I have the Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD3H mobo, not sure if that info is needed.

just looking for suggestions/ideas, thanks for the help.

Open headphones are clear sounding.  Closed have a slightly muffled sound.  The benefit to closed is that they bleed out less sound.

Just use any cable that works.  They don't influence the sound in any perceivable way.

You should get a used Sennheiser HD600 which has by far the best value in the $200-$300 range.

Amp doesn't matter nearly as much as headphone selection does.  You should be fine with a soundcard.  I A-B'd a $5 soundcard, a $200 soundcard, a $500 discreet amp, and a $900 discreet amp and found very little difference between them.  If you like a smooth/warm sound, you could get a tube amp that clips with the tubes a bit, though that will run you $150+ just for the amp.  Though that can be simulated by a $0 DSP :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 13 December 2013, 23:07:25
i have yet to see you suggest anything other than hd600s. you really love those headphones don't you
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sat, 14 December 2013, 00:16:13
I'd say the recommendation of a 598 would be really rough for your purposes.  Open headphones have a tough time tackling bass response, and those that do well with bass can go a bit too far.  Without getting a lot more pricey I would say open is going to be impossible to find a good solution

Recently I recommended a sub $100 pair of headphones which are Fischer Audio FA-003 clones called NVX Audio XTP-100 (http://www.amazon.com/Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions-Earpads/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_185?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1387001470&sr=1-185&keywords=Headphones).  eckse from IRC showed me these after I've been following the FA-003 and its clones.  This is a great package and comes with extra angled ear-pads and an extra detachable cable for replacement.  The total cost of the bundle is $80 with free shipping.  I have had great success with this headphone paired with a Roland Tri-Capture which is a DAC/AMP for the desktop with other I/O for $120.

This info will be in my review-- this is a very high end sounding headphone that will grow with you for years.  It is also great for isolation and not lacking in articulation despite pointyfox's claims that a closed headphone sounds muffled.  Just remember you'll be going to college soon enough and noise is a part of that experience.  You can block it out with these or hear people crashing around which will disturb your jams.

::EDIT:: I'm not saying that the headphone I suggested would suit your current musical tastes the most but it is a safe bet and can be EQed to suit your taste without losing its clean sound.  Also like I mentioned it will grow with you.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Sat, 14 December 2013, 00:19:57
I'd say the recommendation of a 598 would be really rough for your purposes.  Open headphones have a tough time tackling bass response, and those that do well with bass can go a bit too far.  Without getting a lot more pricey I would say open is going to be impossible to find a good solution

Recently I recommended a sub $100 pair of headphones which are Fischer Audio FA-003 clones called NVX Audio XTP-100 (http://www.amazon.com/Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions-Earpads/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_185?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1387001470&sr=1-185&keywords=Headphones).  eckse from IRC showed me these after I've been following the FA-003 and its clones.  This is a great package and comes with extra angled ear-pads and an extra detachable cable for replacement.  The total cost of the bundle is $80 with free shipping.  I have had great success with this headphone paired with a Roland Tri-Capture which is a DAC/AMP for the desktop with other I/O for $120.

This info will be in my review-- this is a very high end sounding headphone that will grow with you for years.  It is also great for isolation and not lacking in articulation despite pointyfox's claims that a closed headphone sounds muffled.  Just remember you'll be going to college soon enough and noise is a part of that experience.  You can block it out with these or hear people crashing around which will disturb your jams.

Listen to Binge, he knows his stuff. The closed would allow for lower frequencies which are essential for the music you listen to.

The only thing I would add is: You might just want to go for a Schiit Amp (Magni or Vali) and save up for the Modi in the near future. There won't be too much of a difference not having the DAC right now, and you would have the peace of mind knowing that you will eventually have a nice entry level stack.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 14 December 2013, 01:56:24
Need some advice from my audio peeps:

Need an Amp and set of headphones for the holidays, going to be all for me. (christmas wooo). Budget is around $200-250

CptBroAss suggested the Schiit Magni Amp , which is $100, and I've heard from some others that that's a great starting amp, so i think i might roll with that unless anyone has any other suggestions.

As for headphones, I have no idea. I was looking at the HD 598's, and at the ATH-M50s. I dont really know personally the difference between open / closed headphones, but from what i hear, i think i'm going to want closed ones. My favorite type of music is EDM, mainly trance and deep house (I think that's a factor in this)

Also need cables, I have the Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD3H mobo, not sure if that info is needed.

just looking for suggestions/ideas, thanks for the help.

Open headphones are clear sounding.  Closed have a slightly muffled sound.  The benefit to closed is that they bleed out less sound.

Just use any cable that works.  They don't influence the sound in any perceivable way.

You should get a used Sennheiser HD600 which has by far the best value in the $200-$300 range.

Amp doesn't matter nearly as much as headphone selection does.  You should be fine with a soundcard.  I A-B'd a $5 soundcard, a $200 soundcard, a $500 discreet amp, and a $900 discreet amp and found very little difference between them.  If you like a smooth/warm sound, you could get a tube amp that clips with the tubes a bit, though that will run you $150+ just for the amp.  Though that can be simulated by a $0 DSP :P

Gonna have to go with LCD-3's if we're talking open cans. I should probably get off of Audeze's **** all the time, but in all honesty they make the second best sounding headphones I've ever had the pleasure of listening to on a high end system.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Sat, 14 December 2013, 02:02:05
Need some advice from my audio peeps:

Need an Amp and set of headphones for the holidays, going to be all for me. (christmas wooo). Budget is around $200-250

CptBroAss suggested the Schiit Magni Amp , which is $100, and I've heard from some others that that's a great starting amp, so i think i might roll with that unless anyone has any other suggestions.

As for headphones, I have no idea. I was looking at the HD 598's, and at the ATH-M50s. I dont really know personally the difference between open / closed headphones, but from what i hear, i think i'm going to want closed ones. My favorite type of music is EDM, mainly trance and deep house (I think that's a factor in this)

Also need cables, I have the Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD3H mobo, not sure if that info is needed.

just looking for suggestions/ideas, thanks for the help.

Open headphones are clear sounding.  Closed have a slightly muffled sound.  The benefit to closed is that they bleed out less sound.

Just use any cable that works.  They don't influence the sound in any perceivable way.

You should get a used Sennheiser HD600 which has by far the best value in the $200-$300 range.

Amp doesn't matter nearly as much as headphone selection does.  You should be fine with a soundcard.  I A-B'd a $5 soundcard, a $200 soundcard, a $500 discreet amp, and a $900 discreet amp and found very little difference between them.  If you like a smooth/warm sound, you could get a tube amp that clips with the tubes a bit, though that will run you $150+ just for the amp.  Though that can be simulated by a $0 DSP :P

Gonna have to go with LCD-3's if we're talking open cans. I should probably get off of Audeze's **** all the time, but in all honesty they make the second best sounding headphones I've ever had the pleasure of listening to on a high end system.

That's only about... 8x his max budget :p

I would love to hear any Audeze hp, I have heard nothing but amazing things about them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 14 December 2013, 02:08:19
I listen to music through a Ferrari so I suggest you go that way. It's in your budget.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 14 December 2013, 02:25:25
I listen to music through a Ferrari so I suggest you go that way. It's in your budget.

Ferrari's are so...plebeian.

Veyron Super Sport only, you can totally hear the difference that extra 2 percent gives you.

As to help, knowing listening preferences and what you listen for and when/how you listen would be helpful.  But a brief list:

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SE-A1000-Over-Ear-Stereo-Headphones/dp/B0033PROOY/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&srs=2530157011&ie=UTF8&qid=1385878049&sr=1-11&keywords=pioneer+headphones

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-A700X-Headphones/dp/B000E9VKUQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1387009429&sr=8-1&keywords=a700x

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD700X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S332TQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1387009429&sr=8-2&keywords=a700x

http://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-108323-Premium-Hi-Fi-Headphone/dp/B007SP2CO2/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1387009468&sr=8-16&keywords=koss+portapro

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B000ULAP4U/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1387009468&sr=8-10&keywords=koss+portapro
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Sat, 14 December 2013, 04:29:17
@dubs(to lazy to quote on my phone)
If you can find a pair of Denon ah-d2000 pick them up.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Sat, 14 December 2013, 15:08:11
I'd say the recommendation of a 598 would be really rough for your purposes.  Open headphones have a tough time tackling bass response, and those that do well with bass can go a bit too far.  Without getting a lot more pricey I would say open is going to be impossible to find a good solution

This info will be in my review-- this is a very high end sounding headphone that will grow with you for years.  It is also great for isolation and not lacking in articulation despite pointyfox's claims that a closed headphone sounds muffled.  Just remember you'll be going to college soon enough and noise is a part of that experience.  You can block it out with these or hear people crashing around which will disturb your jams.

Thanks Binge, I do think a pair of closed headphones would do better. I don't think bass is the end-all-be-all for me, It's just a factor. talking to ya on skype so  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Sat, 14 December 2013, 18:09:31
Ok, options after talking to TheGunner, Binge and Eckse, Men i respect in the audio world:

Headphones:
Sony MDR V6
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR-V6-Monitor-Series-Headphones/dp/B00001WRSJ

NVX
http://www.amazon.com/Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions-Earpads/dp/B0093PVTPS

The 598's
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-Headphones-Burl-Wood-Accents/dp/B0042A8CW2

(sounds like I'd love this next one..it is a little expensive)
the Mad Dogs
https://www.mrspeakers.com/MrSpeakers-Mad-Dog-Alpha-Pad-Fostex-T50RP-headphone

Amps:

Vali
http://schiit.com/products/vali

as i understand, this is better with combos and specific combos

Magni
http://schiit.com/products/magni

as i understand, this is better with more general headphones and more common ones

the deciding factor here will be which pair of headphones

My budget, like i said in total should be $250-300, for amps and headphones. I can go over that, possibly up to like $700 total, but as I am on a total budget for gifts, I like to save the majority for keyboards.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 14 December 2013, 18:12:40
Out of those I'd go with the Senns, but I have heard great things about the Mad Dogs. You may wanna pony up the extra dough for them, the reviews sound like they are worth it. Recent Sony models can be hit and miss in terms of build quality imo.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 14 December 2013, 18:14:38
If you have someone scouring head-fi for you or are doing it yourself, it won't be difficult to find mad dogs in the 200 - 250 range used.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Sat, 14 December 2013, 18:25:33
If you have someone scouring head-fi for you or are doing it yourself, it won't be difficult to find mad dogs in the 200 - 250 range used.

 ;) :wave:

Out of those I'd go with the Senns, but I have heard great things about the Mad Dogs. You may wanna pony up the extra dough for them, the reviews sound like they are worth it. Recent Sony models can be hit and miss in terms of build quality imo.

Initially I was thinking the senns, but apparently open headphones and EDM don't pair great. honestly the mad dogs sound the best for me, but they are just a little bit more then i'd like to spend...still not an option, i'm just thinking...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Sat, 14 December 2013, 19:17:09
If you have someone scouring head-fi for you or are doing it yourself, it won't be difficult to find mad dogs in the 200 - 250 range used.

 ;) :wave:

Out of those I'd go with the Senns, but I have heard great things about the Mad Dogs. You may wanna pony up the extra dough for them, the reviews sound like they are worth it. Recent Sony models can be hit and miss in terms of build quality imo.

Initially I was thinking the senns, but apparently open headphones and EDM don't pair great. honestly the mad dogs sound the best for me, but they are just a little bit more then i'd like to spend...still not an option, i'm just thinking...

I bought the 598s when they went on sale for $150 here in Canada. (They are a lot more expensive here than in the US) I wouldn't advise going with them for EDM. They sound fantastic, but don't really do well with that type of music. Go for the mad dogs ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 21 December 2013, 14:39:17
Welp, I got a pair of Alpha Dogs secondhand recently and for the most part, I could see these being my daily driver.  If I didn't have a pair of hd800s that is.  It's super difficult to choose now.

I like the detail, staging and spacing from the hd800s while being ok with the sound signature out of my Lyr/Bifrost combo.

I like the silky, rich sound of the alphas that are *almost* detailed enough to be reference level to me.  They are slightly less good than the hd800s at the technical stuff, though.

Both are very comfortable and I don't feel like I'm missing out with my current source set up.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eddie on Sat, 21 December 2013, 16:01:18
I have Sennheiser HD 280 pro and Sony MDR-v6 :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digi on Fri, 03 January 2014, 20:17:19
I'm still rocking my Sony mdr-v900's from 14 years ago when I used to dj. Reading about all of these goodies make me want to step up my headphone game.

Dubs, did you every settle on anything and pull the trigger? I'm eyeing that NVX XPT100 set that Binge recommended.. I know nothing about headphones..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 03 January 2014, 21:33:03
Dubs, did you every settle on anything and pull the trigger? I'm eyeing that NVX XPT100 set that Binge recommended.. I know nothing about headphones..

to answer your question:

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52726.msg1171812#msg1171812
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digi on Fri, 03 January 2014, 21:38:12

to answer your question:

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52726.msg1171812#msg1171812

cool, thanks

I'd say the recommendation of a 598 would be really rough for your purposes.  Open headphones have a tough time tackling bass response, and those that do well with bass can go a bit too far.  Without getting a lot more pricey I would say open is going to be impossible to find a good solution

Recently I recommended a sub $100 pair of headphones which are Fischer Audio FA-003 clones called NVX Audio XTP-100 (http://www.amazon.com/Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions-Earpads/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_185?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1387001470&sr=1-185&keywords=Headphones).  eckse from IRC showed me these after I've been following the FA-003 and its clones.  This is a great package and comes with extra angled ear-pads and an extra detachable cable for replacement.  The total cost of the bundle is $80 with free shipping.  I have had great success with this headphone paired with a Roland Tri-Capture which is a DAC/AMP for the desktop with other I/O for $120.

This info will be in my review-- this is a very high end sounding headphone that will grow with you for years.  It is also great for isolation and not lacking in articulation despite pointyfox's claims that a closed headphone sounds muffled.  Just remember you'll be going to college soon enough and noise is a part of that experience.  You can block it out with these or hear people crashing around which will disturb your jams.

::EDIT:: I'm not saying that the headphone I suggested would suit your current musical tastes the most but it is a safe bet and can be EQed to suit your taste without losing its clean sound.  Also like I mentioned it will grow with you.

Binge, is this the amp you're referring to? http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/roland-tri-capture-usb-audio-interface (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/roland-tri-capture-usb-audio-interface)

Also, I have an old behringer 8 channel mixing board that has some type of pre-amp in it. Would that be decent to power the NVX headphones or should I really get the Roland also? Thanks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Fri, 03 January 2014, 22:06:35
Had high hopes for that ATH-W1000X buy on Massdrop, but the final price wound up being like $100 more than the cheapest you can get them for. Why was it even on Massdrop?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Fri, 03 January 2014, 22:42:17
Do you need a DAC/AMP if 1. Your headphone is good enough or 2. You have a fancy sound card?
Sorry if wrong thread. This question fits into general headphone issues.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 03 January 2014, 22:43:07
Do you need a DAC/AMP if 1. Your headphone is good enough or 2. You have a fancy sound card?
Sorry if wrong thread. This question fits into general headphone issues.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=47925.0
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Fri, 03 January 2014, 22:45:12
Do you need a DAC/AMP if 1. Your headphone is good enough or 2. You have a fancy sound card?
Sorry if wrong thread. This question fits into general headphone issues.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=47925.0

cool thx
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sat, 04 January 2014, 04:36:12
Not sure if I mentioned it, but the koss porta pros are very nice and affordable, especially for travel etc.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Novus on Sat, 04 January 2014, 05:26:16
Do you need a DAC/AMP if 1. Your headphone is good enough or 2. You have a fancy sound card?
Sorry if wrong thread. This question fits into general headphone issues.

Yes. Any good headphone requires a DAC and AMP to properly drive the signal.
The reason why audiophiles get a DAC is because good headphones pick up interference (motherboard signals etc).
Soundcards generally don't do enough in terms of isolating signals. DACs also just tend to be much better and more expensive.

I would go into this more but I am typing this on my tablet.

I don't think I have posted in this thread before so my current audio gear:
Audio Technica ATH W5000
Sennhesier HD 650
Audio Technical ATH M50

Burson Conductor


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sat, 04 January 2014, 09:52:51
^^ real audiophiles don't use a soundcard as a source :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digi on Sat, 04 January 2014, 20:37:06
Just got back from Guitar Center, I tried on the DT 770's and noticed that both the top and bottom of my near are slightly pressed down by the ear cushions. I'm wondering if my big ears would be more roomy in the NVX's. I'm also on a budget so I want to get a cheap AMP for the NVX's if anyone has a recommendation it would greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Sat, 04 January 2014, 21:57:22
^^ real audiophiles don't use a soundcard as a source :P

so no reason to get a $50 fancy ass soundcard? Just a $75 DAC?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sat, 04 January 2014, 23:32:09
^^ real audiophiles don't use a soundcard as a source :P

so no reason to get a $50 fancy ass soundcard? Just a $75 DAC?

Ok, just because it shows that you aren't willing to do the research.... DACs are specialized "sound cards".  There are DACs on sound cards, and a "DAC" can play the roll of a sound card as a streaming audio device over USB/Coaxial/SPDIF.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 04 January 2014, 23:37:51
i just buy what tj tells me to buy, so far he's 100%.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digi on Mon, 06 January 2014, 16:28:47
I pulled the trigger on the NVX XPT100s, should have them by next week. I'll report back in, anything is an improvement over my current set of headphones which are like 15 years old, lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 06 January 2014, 18:29:37
I pulled the trigger on the NVX XPT100s, should have them by next week. I'll report back in, anything is an improvement over my current set of headphones which are like 15 years old, lol.

Nice!  Let us know how they are for you :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Mon, 06 January 2014, 20:18:05
TJ told me to buy the Asus Xonar DX 7.1 and I bought it. It adds quite a noticeable improvement in sound quality through my Astro A40 + Mix Amp Pro.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digi on Wed, 08 January 2014, 13:28:28
Got my new NVX XPT100s, the sound quality is very good. I am only using an 8 channel mixing board for a pre-amp, so my setup is a lot more ghetto than most of yours.

The only thing I don't like about these headphones is that the head rest has almost no cushioning. The two bars that go across pretty much sit right on my dome and after about 45mins to an hour, I have to re-position the phones because they cause discomfort. I might add something under it, probably an easy fix.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Wed, 08 January 2014, 13:42:50
Got my new NVX XPT100s, the sound quality is very good. I am only using an 8 channel mixing board for a pre-amp, so my setup is a lot more ghetto than most of yours.

The only thing I don't like about these headphones is that the head rest has almost no cushioning. The two bars that go across pretty much sit right on my dome and after about 45mins to an hour, I have to re-position the phones because they cause discomfort. I might add something under it, probably an easy fix.

You could pick up something like this!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Headband-Cushion-Comfort-pad-fit-BEYERDYNAMIC-DT770-DT880-DT990-PRO-Headphones-/200806723604?pt=US_Replacement_Parts_Tools&hash=item2ec1037014
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: digi on Wed, 08 January 2014, 13:51:17
Got my new NVX XPT100s, the sound quality is very good. I am only using an 8 channel mixing board for a pre-amp, so my setup is a lot more ghetto than most of yours.

The only thing I don't like about these headphones is that the head rest has almost no cushioning. The two bars that go across pretty much sit right on my dome and after about 45mins to an hour, I have to re-position the phones because they cause discomfort. I might add something under it, probably an easy fix.

You could pick up something like this!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Headband-Cushion-Comfort-pad-fit-BEYERDYNAMIC-DT770-DT880-DT990-PRO-Headphones-/200806723604?pt=US_Replacement_Parts_Tools&hash=item2ec1037014

Yea, I'll probably swoop on that, thanks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 08 January 2014, 14:17:16
TJ told me to buy the Asus Xonar DX 7.1 and I bought it. It adds quite a noticeable improvement in sound quality through my Astro A40 + Mix Amp Pro.

Interestingly enough the Mix Amp Pro works with dolby pro-logic circuitry to be used as intended.  So it looks like for this pairing to work at it's intended maximum one would need a sound card with dolby pro-logic and optical out.  Great catch TJ :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: theeattre on Wed, 08 January 2014, 14:44:38
Got my new NVX XPT100s, the sound quality is very good. I am only using an 8 channel mixing board for a pre-amp, so my setup is a lot more ghetto than most of yours.

The only thing I don't like about these headphones is that the head rest has almost no cushioning. The two bars that go across pretty much sit right on my dome and after about 45mins to an hour, I have to re-position the phones because they cause discomfort. I might add something under it, probably an easy fix.

these are the most comfortable headphones i've ever owned. there were times when the music had stopped for over an hour and i forgot i was even wearing them. i haven't had any problem with the band across the top. sucks to hear that it's a problem. the quality overall is solid. it's not a headphone i would take out/travel with (though i can't see why you wouldn't, i just don't commute with headphones) but as a home piece the quality met/exceeded my expectations.

sound wise i'm pretty impressed. at first i was kind of shocked by the lack of bass (i primarily listen to house/tech house/minimal) but i ran them through a burn in audio clip (http://www.jlabaudio.com/index/burn-in) for six hours and when i came back there was a noticeable difference in improvement. running through them through my magni was the clincher; all of a sudden there was full depth across the board. i know these are marketed as a studio monitor and they definitely live up to that. i must admit, listening to more dj oriented music i'm used to headphones that color sound, romanticizing the bass (though i hate overwhelming bass) and pushing highs but the nvt seem to keep everything on an even keel. i have noticed that some tracks are just a tad too sparkly but that could have more to do with the recording itself. this headphone will take some time to get used to but i got these specifically in hopes of hearing and learning to enjoy a more neutral listening experience while staying within a reasonable budget.

i'll come back and update my thoughts after these have gotten more useage.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 08 January 2014, 16:00:34
Got my new NVX XPT100s, the sound quality is very good. I am only using an 8 channel mixing board for a pre-amp, so my setup is a lot more ghetto than most of yours.

The only thing I don't like about these headphones is that the head rest has almost no cushioning. The two bars that go across pretty much sit right on my dome and after about 45mins to an hour, I have to re-position the phones because they cause discomfort. I might add something under it, probably an easy fix.

these are the most comfortable headphones i've ever owned. there were times when the music had stopped for over an hour and i forgot i was even wearing them. i haven't had any problem with the band across the top. sucks to hear that it's a problem. the quality overall is solid. it's not a headphone i would take out/travel with (though i can't see why you wouldn't, i just don't commute with headphones) but as a home piece the quality met/exceeded my expectations.

sound wise i'm pretty impressed. at first i was kind of shocked by the lack of bass (i primarily listen to house/tech house/minimal) but i ran them through a burn in audio clip (http://www.jlabaudio.com/index/burn-in) for six hours and when i came back there was a noticeable difference in improvement. running through them through my magni was the clincher; all of a sudden there was full depth across the board. i know these are marketed as a studio monitor and they definitely live up to that. i must admit, listening to more dj oriented music i'm used to headphones that color sound, romanticizing the bass (though i hate overwhelming bass) and pushing highs but the nvt seem to keep everything on an even keel. i have noticed that some tracks are just a tad too sparkly but that could have more to do with the recording itself. this headphone will take some time to get used to but i got these specifically in hopes of hearing and learning to enjoy a more neutral listening experience while staying within a reasonable budget.

i'll come back and update my thoughts after these have gotten more useage.

If you have a good parametric EQ- I found that the following settings work magic for the NVX/Fischer 003 clones.

20Hz +3dB Q7
150Hz -3dB Q7
300Hz +2dB Q8
800Hz -4dB Q5
8kHz +4dB Q10
14kHz -3dB Q5
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: theeattre on Wed, 08 January 2014, 17:31:55
Got my new NVX XPT100s, the sound quality is very good. I am only using an 8 channel mixing board for a pre-amp, so my setup is a lot more ghetto than most of yours.

The only thing I don't like about these headphones is that the head rest has almost no cushioning. The two bars that go across pretty much sit right on my dome and after about 45mins to an hour, I have to re-position the phones because they cause discomfort. I might add something under it, probably an easy fix.

these are the most comfortable headphones i've ever owned. there were times when the music had stopped for over an hour and i forgot i was even wearing them. i haven't had any problem with the band across the top. sucks to hear that it's a problem. the quality overall is solid. it's not a headphone i would take out/travel with (though i can't see why you wouldn't, i just don't commute with headphones) but as a home piece the quality met/exceeded my expectations.

sound wise i'm pretty impressed. at first i was kind of shocked by the lack of bass (i primarily listen to house/tech house/minimal) but i ran them through a burn in audio clip (http://www.jlabaudio.com/index/burn-in) for six hours and when i came back there was a noticeable difference in improvement. running through them through my magni was the clincher; all of a sudden there was full depth across the board. i know these are marketed as a studio monitor and they definitely live up to that. i must admit, listening to more dj oriented music i'm used to headphones that color sound, romanticizing the bass (though i hate overwhelming bass) and pushing highs but the nvt seem to keep everything on an even keel. i have noticed that some tracks are just a tad too sparkly but that could have more to do with the recording itself. this headphone will take some time to get used to but i got these specifically in hopes of hearing and learning to enjoy a more neutral listening experience while staying within a reasonable budget.

i'll come back and update my thoughts after these have gotten more useage.

If you have a good parametric EQ- I found that the following settings work magic for the NVX/Fischer 003 clones.

20Hz +3dB Q7
150Hz -3dB Q7
300Hz +2dB Q8
800Hz -4dB Q5
8kHz +4dB Q10
14kHz -3dB Q5

dude, bad ass! was totally going to pm you about suggestions. good looking out. do you have one that you'd recommend?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Wed, 08 January 2014, 17:55:37
Really sorry to bother people here again. I'm looking for a 1. Comfortable 2. Under $100 and 3. Good sounding headphone. Which one do you recommend? DAC will most likely be binge's when he finishes the project
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 08 January 2014, 18:07:24
Really sorry to bother people here again. I'm looking for a 1. Comfortable 2. Under $100 and 3. Good sounding headphone. Which one do you recommend? DAC will most likely be binge's when he finishes the project

Audio Technica ATH-T400 (I personally have these and for the price they sound very good)

http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATH-T400-Closed-Back-Dynamic-Headphones/dp/B004RO3V7O

Audio Technica ATH-AD500X (Bass isn't that great but everything else is good)

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD500X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S333U4/ref=pd_sim_sbs_MI_5
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Wed, 08 January 2014, 18:41:26
Really sorry to bother people here again. I'm looking for a 1. Comfortable 2. Under $100 and 3. Good sounding headphone. Which one do you recommend? DAC will most likely be binge's when he finishes the project

Audio Technica ATH-T400 (I personally have these and for the price they sound very good)

http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATH-T400-Closed-Back-Dynamic-Headphones/dp/B004RO3V7O

Audio Technica ATH-AD500X (Bass isn't that great but everything else is good)

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD500X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S333U4/ref=pd_sim_sbs_MI_5

Sweet. Prob going to get the ATH-T400.

My friend also said the RP-HTF600-S are good, http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-RP-HTF600-S-Stereo-Over-ear-Headphones/dp/B004MMEI8W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389227470&sr=8-1&keywords=panasonic+htf600
But leaning toward the T400
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 08 January 2014, 19:15:49
Pacifist

http://www.jaycar.us/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&form=CAT2&SUBCATID=1015#4
http://www.amazon.com/Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions-Earpads/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1389229960&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=NVX
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-982-000079-UE-6000-Headphones/dp/B0094S36RI/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1389230007&sr=1-2&keywords=logitech+headphones

^ take your pick :D

If you have a good parametric EQ- I found that the following settings work magic for the NVX/Fischer 003 clones.

20Hz +3dB Q7
150Hz -3dB Q7
300Hz +2dB Q8
800Hz -4dB Q5
8kHz +4dB Q10
14kHz -3dB Q5

dude, bad ass! was totally going to pm you about suggestions. good looking out. do you have one that you'd recommend?

I am currently using Equalizer APO.  It's a bit tough to set up but it allows you control over just about too many settings.

WARNING: no GUI, scripting

http://sourceforge.net/projects/equalizerapo/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 08 January 2014, 19:19:29
Really sorry to bother people here again. I'm looking for a 1. Comfortable 2. Under $100 and 3. Good sounding headphone. Which one do you recommend? DAC will most likely be binge's when he finishes the project

Audio Technica ATH-T400 (I personally have these and for the price they sound very good)

http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATH-T400-Closed-Back-Dynamic-Headphones/dp/B004RO3V7O

Audio Technica ATH-AD500X (Bass isn't that great but everything else is good)

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD500X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S333U4/ref=pd_sim_sbs_MI_5

Sweet. Prob going to get the ATH-T400.

My friend also said the RP-HTF600-S are good, http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-RP-HTF600-S-Stereo-Over-ear-Headphones/dp/B004MMEI8W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389227470&sr=8-1&keywords=panasonic+htf600
But leaning toward the T400

I am a fan of those panasonics, I think they were ~$30 when I got them.

If you want a cheap portable headphone the koss ports pros are hard to beat, $25 @ amazon.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Wed, 08 January 2014, 20:06:35
Going to go with the panasonics. Going to be $30 into the audiophile world, a small step in comparison to other headphones. I just hope it doesn't end up like keyboards, robbing me of my money.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 08 January 2014, 20:09:57
Going to go with the panasonics. Going to be $30 into the audiophile world, a small step in comparison to other headphones. I just hope it doesn't end up like keyboards, robbing me of my money.

It will. Just go over to head-fi.org

I spent thousands in just a few months, but that was over 10 years ago.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 08 January 2014, 20:26:08
Going to go with the panasonics. Going to be $30 into the audiophile world, a small step in comparison to other headphones. I just hope it doesn't end up like keyboards, robbing me of my money.

If we are shooting for the $30 price range I would go with Tascams.

http://www.amazon.com/TASCAM-TH02-B-Closed-Back-Stylish-Headphone/dp/B00B1N06PO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389234296&sr=8-1&keywords=tascam+headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 08 January 2014, 20:29:27
Or the pioneers I link all the time
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Wed, 08 January 2014, 20:31:31
Going to go with the panasonics. Going to be $30 into the audiophile world, a small step in comparison to other headphones. I just hope it doesn't end up like keyboards, robbing me of my money.

If we are shooting for the $30 price range I would go with Tascams.

http://www.amazon.com/TASCAM-TH02-B-Closed-Back-Stylish-Headphone/dp/B00B1N06PO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389234296&sr=8-1&keywords=tascam+headphones

Why are the red on white ones $10 cheaper? Nobody likes those colors? (Then how come RA is so awesome?) http://www.amazon.com/TASCAM-TH02-B-Closed-Back-Stylish-Headphone/dp/B00B1N06PO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389234296&sr=8-1&keywords=tascam+headphones

My friend said that after 80 hrs of burning in the panasonics, they sound really really good.
Why do you prefer the tascam over the panasonic? What aspects are better? Want to make an educated purchase and buy something good for me.

Thanks for all the help on finding headphones, means a lot after using $6 headphones for a while.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 08 January 2014, 20:43:23
I think I'd pay the extra to get the black over white.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Novus on Wed, 08 January 2014, 22:32:45
Really sorry to bother people here again. I'm looking for a 1. Comfortable 2. Under $100 and 3. Good sounding headphone. Which one do you recommend? DAC will most likely be binge's when he finishes the project

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00001WRSJ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=395L3FFQVKA96&coliid=I1RB17CTF06PQQ

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B000ULAP4U/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1389241875&sr=1-1&keywords=m50
(You can usually buy this for under 100)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 08 January 2014, 22:59:37
Going to go with the panasonics. Going to be $30 into the audiophile world, a small step in comparison to other headphones. I just hope it doesn't end up like keyboards, robbing me of my money.

If we are shooting for the $30 price range I would go with Tascams.

http://www.amazon.com/TASCAM-TH02-B-Closed-Back-Stylish-Headphone/dp/B00B1N06PO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389234296&sr=8-1&keywords=tascam+headphones

Why are the red on white ones $10 cheaper? Nobody likes those colors? (Then how come RA is so awesome?) http://www.amazon.com/TASCAM-TH02-B-Closed-Back-Stylish-Headphone/dp/B00B1N06PO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389234296&sr=8-1&keywords=tascam+headphones

My friend said that after 80 hrs of burning in the panasonics, they sound really really good.
Why do you prefer the tascam over the panasonic? What aspects are better? Want to make an educated purchase and buy something good for me.

Thanks for all the help on finding headphones, means a lot after using $6 headphones for a while.

#1) burn in should not be an issue.  Usually it is your ears adjusting to the sound your headphones are producing.
#2) most headphones are factory "burnt in"
#3) them Tascams are flat as all hell.  There's a gnarly 8k peak I think... but from what I understand the panasonics are bass machines without really providing accurate bass.  Possibly pleasant but not hi-fidelity.  Not all hi-fi is flat but the majority of neutral headphones (praised for being neutral) will allow you to hear the music as you have it recorded and you will also be able to hear the nuances of your equipment.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CommunistWitchDr on Wed, 08 January 2014, 23:06:12
#1) burn in should not be an issue.  Usually it is your ears adjusting to the sound your headphones are producing.
#2) most headphones are factory "burnt in"
#3) them Tascams are flat as all hell.  There's a gnarly 8k peak I think... but from what I understand the panasonics are bass machines without really providing accurate bass.  Possibly pleasant but not hi-fidelity.  Not all hi-fi is flat but the majority of neutral headphones (praised for being neutral) will allow you to hear the music as you have it recorded and you will also be able to hear the nuances of your equipment.

I personally wouldn't go with  the Tascams for the fact they're on ear alone. Even if they sound nicer than Panasonic or Superlux or whatever else is competitive at that price point, pretty much any on ear design save for portapros is just terrible for more than a few minutes of listening for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 08 January 2014, 23:50:40
They are not on-ear sir.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 24 January 2014, 05:20:50
Gonna get OEM IE80s next week. They're great value for about $30, according to reviews.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Mon, 27 January 2014, 11:13:40
Anyone have experience with closed-back headphones with velour pads?

I stinkin' love how comfortable my HD598's are with the velour pads, but need a pair with closed-backs for the office to minimize sound-leak.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 27 January 2014, 14:49:32
Anyone have experience with closed-back headphones with velour pads?

I stinkin' love how comfortable my HD598's are with the velour pads, but need a pair with closed-backs for the office to minimize sound-leak.

I hear that you can get velour pads for a shure headphone to fit on m50s.  Other than that, you might look into shure, as I think they have a few pair of closed back with velour as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 28 January 2014, 01:14:17
Beyer DT770 have velour aswell
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Tue, 28 January 2014, 16:50:53
Beyer DT770 have velour aswell

Anyone have experience with closed-back headphones with velour pads?

I stinkin' love how comfortable my HD598's are with the velour pads, but need a pair with closed-backs for the office to minimize sound-leak.

I hear that you can get velour pads for a shure headphone to fit on m50s.  Other than that, you might look into shure, as I think they have a few pair of closed back with velour as well.

Thanks for the suggestions, I just needed a place to start! Discovered an audio store with a decent selection of headphones on the way to the office, so maybe I'll go check them out in person.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 28 January 2014, 23:31:04
Anyone have experience with closed-back headphones with velour pads?

I stinkin' love how comfortable my HD598's are with the velour pads, but need a pair with closed-backs for the office to minimize sound-leak.

i loved my dt770s when i had them.

and tbh, i regret selling them. they were comfortable and even though i like these mad dogs, i liked the bass better on the DT's
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Yzeets on Wed, 29 January 2014, 01:50:49
I know this is a little off-topic but does anyone know a good iPod repair place online? I broke the screen  on my classic ordered a new one, installed it and now i'm just getting a white screen. it work's fine I can hear music I just can't see anything, so I guess I might as well send it in before I break it some more
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: luminor on Wed, 29 January 2014, 10:19:44
i'm on the fence for Sennheiser HD 650, it will cost me a lot to get amp/dac to power the heaphones nicely...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Wed, 29 January 2014, 15:40:56
i'm on the fence for Sennheiser HD 650, it will cost me a lot to get amp/dac to power the heaphones nicely...
Lower cost option for the hd650 I would say philips fidelio x1. A bit of the same sound but doesnt require as beefy amp
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Thu, 30 January 2014, 12:05:19
Sad, the audio store had lots of open headphones from Grado/Audio-Technica to test drive but didn't have any Beyerdynamics or Shures or closed-back headphones for that matter.

i loved my dt770s when i had them.

and tbh, i regret selling them. they were comfortable and even though i like these mad dogs, i liked the bass better on the DT's

Found some DT770/250's on clearance for $133 shipped, did you have the 80's demik?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 January 2014, 12:16:32
Longzilla, what sort of sound signature do you want from a new set of cans?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Thu, 30 January 2014, 12:44:28
Longzilla, what sort of sound signature do you want from a new set of cans?

I'll mostly be listening to upbeat stuff to keep me awake at the office, so something with accurate bass/midranges but nothing too aggressive/taxing to listen to for long periods of time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 30 January 2014, 15:11:40
Had the 250s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 30 January 2014, 15:55:32
Longzilla, what sort of sound signature do you want from a new set of cans?

I'll mostly be listening to upbeat stuff to keep me awake at the office, so something with accurate bass/midranges but nothing too aggressive/taxing to listen to for long periods of time.
I personally find bassy headphones to be a bit fatiguing over longer sessions and these days mostly use AKG Q701.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 January 2014, 17:07:05
Longzilla, what sort of sound signature do you want from a new set of cans?

I'll mostly be listening to upbeat stuff to keep me awake at the office, so something with accurate bass/midranges but nothing too aggressive/taxing to listen to for long periods of time.

You can't go wrong with this,

http://www.amazon.com/Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions-Earpads/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1391123208&sr=8-1&keywords=NVX
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 31 January 2014, 16:27:37
Picked up the IE80s yesterday. I got them here (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Sound-tuning-functionality-high-fidelity-noise-isolating-ear-canal-phones-with-excellent-soundstage-unique-ie-80/428079_1548439915.html) and they're pretty good value for the price (around $30). Koreans went crazy about them and sound quality is supposedly very close to IE80s from official distribution. To be honest, I have no idea (these are my first IEMs since CX400 in 2010), nor do I really care. I just wanted something rather clean for listening in bed or when wearing a hat or a helmet.

I guess I'll spend some time finding cheap tiny foam eartips (with worldwide shipping) now, because my ears are... tiny.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Fri, 31 January 2014, 17:18:21
How does a Schiit Magni and a pair of AD900X sound (literally, huehue) for listening to rock? Open to other amp/headphone suggestions, my budget is roughly $300.

How critical is a DAC?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 31 January 2014, 18:55:49
How does a Schiit Magni and a pair of AD900X sound (literally, huehue) for listening to rock? Open to other amp/headphone suggestions, my budget is roughly $300.

How critical is a DAC?

If you can bump overall budget to $400, the hifiman he400s are on a closeout sale and are worth every penny of the current $299 price tag.  Amazon still has a handful and they look to still be in stock direct through hifiman, too.

DAC is probably third of importance in my mind, but worth the upgrade at some point.  I would do headphones > amp > dac
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Sat, 01 February 2014, 01:11:31
How does a Schiit Magni and a pair of AD900X sound (literally, huehue) for listening to rock? Open to other amp/headphone suggestions, my budget is roughly $300.

How critical is a DAC?

If you can bump overall budget to $400, the hifiman he400s are on a closeout sale and are worth every penny of the current $299 price tag.  Amazon still has a handful and they look to still be in stock direct through hifiman, too.

DAC is probably third of importance in my mind, but worth the upgrade at some point.  I would do headphones > amp > dac

Thanks for the help! I imagine the orthodynamic drivers are a big improvement. I think I may end up going with those.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Air tree on Sat, 01 February 2014, 02:12:05
Okay everyone, I got a $400-$450 Budget for a pair of headphones and a Dac. What would you recommend? I listen to rock, Classical Pretty just a wide range of music. I'm looking for a pair of open headphones with some bass but of course nothing over doing it that would ruin classical for me. I game and Listen to music about 50/50 so that could be a factor.


I also need something super comfortable. I'm going to be wearing these for long hours. Other than that I don't really know what else to say!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Sat, 01 February 2014, 11:25:07
i just bought a pair of sennheiser hd25 aluminum. i will never buy another headphone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Sat, 01 February 2014, 11:33:07
i just bought a pair of sennheiser hd25 aluminum. i will never buy another headphone.
Dey so tiny
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Sat, 01 February 2014, 11:36:56
i just bought a pair of sennheiser hd25 aluminum. i will never buy another headphone.
Dey so tiny

i love them :) i do think i'm going to get them anodized in black to look like the original plastic version.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Sat, 01 February 2014, 12:54:33
How does a Schiit Magni and a pair of AD900X sound (literally, huehue) for listening to rock? Open to other amp/headphone suggestions, my budget is roughly $300.

How critical is a DAC?

If you can bump overall budget to $400, the hifiman he400s are on a closeout sale and are worth every penny of the current $299 price tag.  Amazon still has a handful and they look to still be in stock direct through hifiman, too.

DAC is probably third of importance in my mind, but worth the upgrade at some point.  I would do headphones > amp > dac

Dang wish I could try the HE-400s somewhere, curious if they're comfortable enough for long usage to see if I should just wait for the HE-400i
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sat, 01 February 2014, 13:05:16
How does a Schiit Magni and a pair of AD900X sound (literally, huehue) for listening to rock? Open to other amp/headphone suggestions, my budget is roughly $300.

How critical is a DAC?

If you can bump overall budget to $400, the hifiman he400s are on a closeout sale and are worth every penny of the current $299 price tag.  Amazon still has a handful and they look to still be in stock direct through hifiman, too.

DAC is probably third of importance in my mind, but worth the upgrade at some point.  I would do headphones > amp > dac

Dang wish I could try the HE-400s somewhere, curious if they're comfortable enough for long usage to see if I should just wait for the HE-400i

The price for the 400s are going to be significantly less than the 400i by about 100+ USD.  If you want to wait, you will probably be rewarded from what I am hearing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 01 February 2014, 13:23:45
Okay everyone, I got a $400-$450 Budget for a pair of headphones and a Dac. What would you recommend? I listen to rock, Classical Pretty just a wide range of music. I'm looking for a pair of open headphones with some bass but of course nothing over doing it that would ruin classical for me. I game and Listen to music about 50/50 so that could be a factor.


I also need something super comfortable. I'm going to be wearing these for long hours. Other than that I don't really know what else to say!

I would say hd600/he400/mad dogs and either a schiit modi or aune t1 for the DAC.  I think the hd600 is the most comfortable of the three, but the mad dogs are very nice as well.  The he400 have the best sound (to me), but are heavy to most people.  I have a huge head, so I didn't notice as much.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dude on Sat, 08 February 2014, 20:07:15
I went on a bit of a spending spree recently.  I got a pair of HD 650's to replace my HD 580's that I've had for the past 10 years.  I also ordered a Bottlehead Crack amp to drive those, but while I'm waiting for them to ship I'll continue to use my ODAC/O2 with them.

I also wanted a nice closed pair of headphones for when I'm in an environment where a set of open headphones isn't appropriate.  I purchased the Mad Dogs, and they are extremely nice especially for the price.  I am strongly leaning towards upgrading them to Alpha Dogs (I'm on the waiting list), mainly because I hear the difference between them is so large & worth the extra $300, and I love having the best  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Sun, 09 February 2014, 01:56:06
so i guess these
ATH-AD700X (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009S332TQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009S332TQ&linkCode=as2&tag=420usa-20)

is the replacement for my AT adh-700

i guess since i moved, i must have snagged something and the right ear doesn't work, unless someone has some advice on how to fix that, guess i'm going with those, or someone have any ?other suggestions? the price range is... well i'm just happy with the old 700 so if price/performance and to me most importantly comfort (i wear them 8hrs a day) is just as good, why not try new things.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 09 February 2014, 03:38:05
so i guess these
ATH-AD700X (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009S332TQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009S332TQ&linkCode=as2&tag=420usa-20)

is the replacement for my AT adh-700

i guess since i moved, i must have snagged something and the right ear doesn't work, unless someone has some advice on how to fix that, guess i'm going with those, or someone have any ?other suggestions? the price range is... well i'm just happy with the old 700 so if price/performance and to me most importantly comfort (i wear them 8hrs a day) is just as good, why not try new things.

Crack it open and check the solder points? 

Send it to me and I'll crack it open and check the solder points?

If you would just rather have new, the ad700x is a good choice.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lanx on Sun, 09 February 2014, 05:16:11
actually just did that, apparently the wires just "spun" around the swivel a lot and stripped it, so i sent two wires up the cable, solder it, and now works. took 2 hours.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ianxblog on Mon, 10 February 2014, 07:58:01
Pioneer SE-M290.

Love them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: stancato9 on Tue, 11 February 2014, 09:46:51
Does anyone know where I can get a balanced cable for the HE400s for a decent price?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 11 February 2014, 15:03:59
Does anyone know where I can get a balanced cable for the HE400s for a decent price?

How decent is decent?

Your cheapest option, if you have soldering tools already would be to modify the OE cable by replacing the SE 1/4" end with a 4 pin xlr or 2 3 pin xlr ends.

If you want to keep your single-ended cable and have a balanced as well, you could buy a run of cable you'd like (canare quadstar is nice), a pair of the hifiman ends and xlrs and make a full cable.  Assuming, again, that you have soldering gear.

From there, you could also order one off mimic cables for approximately $55 depending on what sleeve you want.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Wed, 12 February 2014, 23:52:35
I posted a pic of my balanced cable on the amp/dac thread. Got it for $55 from modulor (guy that runs the jergpad GB) at 5 ft length with a 2 color braid. I'm not sure if he's going to be doing more cables in the future but you should ask him, I'm very satisfied with mine.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 13 February 2014, 00:05:55
I would really really truly recommend going with mimic cables.  The ones I've bought have had top quality sleeving and connector ends.  When I get a more mobile setup for the summer, I will be getting some custom headphone cables and an interconnect wire for a C5D.

Cables I've bought from mimic-

2x USB-A male to USB-B male
2x rca male to rca male
1x 1/8" phone male to R/L RCA male
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 17 February 2014, 05:02:44
Just got Sennheiser HD 250 Linear II in the mail. So far, I'm quite impressed.

Anyone have any experience with HD 540 Reference by chance?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bumgrapes on Mon, 17 February 2014, 06:10:54
I own two pairs of headphones currently.


HD 25-1 ii for when I DJ
(http://en-uk.sennheiser.com/images/352/all/square/3588/square_louped_hd_25-1_ii_01_sq_studio_sennheiser.png)

HD 25-SP ii for gaming (Retired from DJ business when I got the 25-1 ii's)
(http://en-uk.sennheiser.com/images/353/all/square/3613/square_louped_hd_25-sp-ii_01_sq_studio_sennheiser.png)


Would love a pair of these strictly for gaming

(http://en-uk.sennheiser.com/images/2381/all/square/7567/square_louped_G4ME-ZERO---Shoot-01.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Thu, 20 February 2014, 14:21:54
Hi all, I need an advice. Here's my situation and what I am looking for: I recently bought some Soundmagic HP100 and I like them a lot. They were my first pair of real decent headphones. But now I want a second pair to have one at home and one at job.


Ideally, I would like a pair of good quality closed headphones with 80+ impedance (so that I am not limited when looking for an amp since many have 5-10 ohm output impedance and my HP100 have 32 ohm impedance and from what I have read it's bad if you follow the 1/8 rule). I am them to be neutral/balanced. But in closed headphones, the choice is limited from what I have found.


I have lately been interested in getting the DT880, but they are semi-open and I am not sure yet if I would use them at home or at job. At home, sometime there's some noise (laundry), but it's not that much of an issue. But if I decide to get them at job, well I don't want to disturb my coworkers (they are like 4-5 feet away from me). My model F is already enough :p


I aim for a budget of 150-250 ish ideally (shipped to Canada). So I would like a lot to know if there's other good choices out there and I would also like to know how bad the sound leak would be for coworkers if I decided to bring them to work.


Thx all!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Thu, 20 February 2014, 14:54:47
Hi all, I need an advice. Here's my situation and what I am looking for: I recently bought some Soundmagic HP100 and I like them a lot. They were my first pair of real decent headphones. But now I want a second pair to have one at home and one at job.

Ideally, I would like a pair of good quality closed headphones with 80+ impedance (so that I am not limited when looking for an amp since many have 5-10 ohm output impedance and my HP100 have 32 ohm impedance and from what I have read it's bad if you follow the 1/8 rule). I am them to be neutral/balanced. But in closed headphones, the choice is limited from what I have found.

I have lately been interested in getting the DT880, but they are semi-open and I am not sure yet if I would use them at home or at job. At home, sometime there's some noise (laundry), but it's not that much of an issue. But if I decide to get them at job, well I don't want to disturb my coworkers (they are like 4-5 feet away from me). My model F is already enough :p

I aim for a budget of 150-250 ish ideally (shipped to Canada). So I would like a lot to know if there's other good choices out there and I would also like to know how bad the sound leak would be for coworkers if I decided to bring them to work.

Thx all!

You mentioned the DT880's interested you, perhaps the Beyer DT770 (32 or limited edition) or Custom One Pros
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 20 February 2014, 18:35:07
Hi all, I need an advice. Here's my situation and what I am looking for: I recently bought some Soundmagic HP100 and I like them a lot. They were my first pair of real decent headphones. But now I want a second pair to have one at home and one at job.


Ideally, I would like a pair of good quality closed headphones with 80+ impedance (so that I am not limited when looking for an amp since many have 5-10 ohm output impedance and my HP100 have 32 ohm impedance and from what I have read it's bad if you follow the 1/8 rule). I am them to be neutral/balanced. But in closed headphones, the choice is limited from what I have found.


I have lately been interested in getting the DT880, but they are semi-open and I am not sure yet if I would use them at home or at job. At home, sometime there's some noise (laundry), but it's not that much of an issue. But if I decide to get them at job, well I don't want to disturb my coworkers (they are like 4-5 feet away from me). My model F is already enough :p


I aim for a budget of 150-250 ish ideally (shipped to Canada). So I would like a lot to know if there's other good choices out there and I would also like to know how bad the sound leak would be for coworkers if I decided to bring them to work.


Thx all!

FA-003Ti rebrand +1, https://secure.vividcluster.crox.net.au/jaycar2005/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&w=headphone&form=KEYWORD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 20 February 2014, 21:50:55
Hi all, I need an advice. Here's my situation and what I am looking for: I recently bought some Soundmagic HP100 and I like them a lot. They were my first pair of real decent headphones. But now I want a second pair to have one at home and one at job.

Ideally, I would like a pair of good quality closed headphones with 80+ impedance (so that I am not limited when looking for an amp since many have 5-10 ohm output impedance and my HP100 have 32 ohm impedance and from what I have read it's bad if you follow the 1/8 rule). I am them to be neutral/balanced. But in closed headphones, the choice is limited from what I have found.

I have lately been interested in getting the DT880, but they are semi-open and I am not sure yet if I would use them at home or at job. At home, sometime there's some noise (laundry), but it's not that much of an issue. But if I decide to get them at job, well I don't want to disturb my coworkers (they are like 4-5 feet away from me). My model F is already enough :p

I aim for a budget of 150-250 ish ideally (shipped to Canada). So I would like a lot to know if there's other good choices out there and I would also like to know how bad the sound leak would be for coworkers if I decided to bring them to work.

Thx all!

You mentioned the DT880's interested you, perhaps the Beyer DT770 (32 or limited edition) or Custom One Pros

I don't like DT880s.  They are sonically inferior to HD600/650 due to weak bass impact and over-amplification of sounds around 8.5 kHz. They don't seem to block much outside sound, so the "semi-open" feature is pretty meaningless.   The DT770s have the same bump around 8.5 kHz.  Makes people sssound like sssnakesss.

I've never heard any "audiophile" closed full-size headphones I thought were at least decent.  Great isolation, sound quality and value can be had with in-ear modules however. 
Title: Newbie's review of his first headphone sampling run
Post by: linziyi on Thu, 20 February 2014, 22:34:18
Prelude

So I found myself mysteriously drawn into the headphone business a couple months ago, and got myself a first pair of "decent" fullsize headphone according to a head-fi-er's advice --- the fischer fa-003 --- it was praised for its unmatched neutrality and soundstage at its price level. However I was quite disapointed by the sound it produced, so I went on and did some research online, reading reviews, surfing reddits... Eventually I realised that my ears are the most reliable advicer I can ever have, so I decided to sample some headphones.

 

I went to B&H 9th avenue in Mannhattan following other people's suggestions, with a pair of ears long wanted to experience the "hifi" sound, I begun my jounery...

 

Music

Baptised by classical music through all my life, and being a piano player myself, my ears just cannot bear the noise and disturbance created by pop music, so my catagory is very limited, but I am hoping to enjoy some ragtime or jazz later on. The tracks I used in this sampling are: BWV 537-Bach, La Campanella-Liszt, Pastorale-Beethoven, Nocturnes Op.9 No.1-Chopin. All flac 690Kbps, source from a nexus 10.

 

HD 600

One of the most praised headphone from what I read, my expectation for this one is huge, and ready to be blown away by it. The comforte is unparalled, the headband so light and the velorpads so soft that I hardly feel it on my head, and the open back design makes my ears feel so fresh after so many years behind the closed back headphones. The organ works from Bach sounds very nice but I think a little more bass would be perfect. The Liszt etude is my track to test the treble, it sounds a little bit dull compare to a real piano, which has a very clear, bell-like sound. It is the symphony by Beethoven really pulls this headphone apart from the others. The different instruments are extremely distinguishable and clear, and I can clearly hear the notes from the drums and double basses in the right wing compare to a sea of bassy vibration produced by my previous headphones. Overall the headphone is great, but I expected a lot more imaging from a open back headphone.

 

AKG 701

The AKG 701 called to my attention for its supreme soundstage mentioned by numerous people. While the soundstage is much, much bigger than that of the HD 600, I find its sound signature much to my disliking, too "spiky" for classical music in my opinion, maybe good for more modern musics.

 

HD 800

The model they had in store is broken, the wire connected to the right driver is exposed and disjointed, but it doesn't stop me from realising its glory---OMG THE SOUNDSTAGE IS AMMMMMMMAAAAAZZINNNGGGG!!!!!!!!! It has got almost double the soundstage of the AKG 701 and the sound of the HD 600, but much more lucid, penatrative, and crystalline. The trebles are exactly what I want them to be, and the bass is just the right amount --- warm, but not muddy. I can only imagine the sound coming out of this with proper amplification and properly working wires.

 

DT 990 pro

I heard mixed review about this one, my brother says it is too "soft", and some people says it is not very good. It is bigger than what I've thought, but very comfortable nontheless. Listening to the Beethoven symphony, I discovered that the instruments are less separable than the HD 600, everything kind of all jumbled up together. Bass is adequate compare to the ones I heard before, and treble not as clear as the HD 600. However the soundstage is greater than that of the HD 600, considering it it being a third of the HD 600's, I still think this is a good deal.

 

HE 400

I sampled this one in another store as the B&H doesn't have an opened one. It is not as heavy as people on the Internet described it to be, in fact, it is almost the same as any other headphones for me. The first thing that caught my attention is the bass. It is very different from the other headphones, quite difficult to describe using the "sound dictionary" I have right now. I find the treble very unlikable for the musics I listen to, too low to even call it "treble" in my point of view. The soundstage is quite limited from what I heard, but a little more open than that of the HD 600. All in all, not a headphone for me.

 

Conclusion

The headphoens I sampled this time are all without proper amplifications, for the source I used is merely a tablet (not to mention wire and DAC, which I have no idea how they affect the sound). I am planning to attend the next head-fi meetup in NY, looking forward to test some other headphone and make my final decision of buying one!

 

P.S. Please excuse me of any misuse of terminology and point out the areas I can improve on, it is a new field I am stepping in and need quite a lot guidance, thanks very much for reading!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pillows on Thu, 20 February 2014, 23:16:33
I'm no audiophile but I have a

Sony MDR-V6 with Beyerdynamic pads

I'd take pics but uh- my SD card is in the other room
If anyone is interested in buying a pair, the ear pads wear out fast, so better to replace them with the Beyerdynamic EDT 250 Velour pads.
In terms of audio quality, uhh read the reviews on Amazon? I have poopy ears and I think I'm going deaf.

I use them for gaming, just like any other headphones, I can hear them footsteps in CS :D
Occasionally wear them for music..

Only gripe I have with them is they pinch a little if you wear glasses (I have moderately thick rimmed glasses)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 20 February 2014, 23:26:24
Prelude

So I found myself mysteriously drawn into the headphone business a couple months ago, and got myself a first pair of "decent" fullsize headphone according to a head-fi-er's advice --- the fischer fa-003 --- it was praised for its unmatched neutrality and soundstage at its price level. However I was quite disapointed by the sound it produced, so I went on and did some research online, reading reviews, surfing reddits... Eventually I realised that my ears are the most reliable advicer I can ever have, so I decided to sample some headphones.

 

I went to B&H 9th avenue in Mannhattan following other people's suggestions, with a pair of ears long wanted to experience the "hifi" sound, I begun my jounery...

 

Music

Baptised by classical music through all my life, and being a piano player myself, my ears just cannot bear the noise and disturbance created by pop music, so my catagory is very limited, but I am hoping to enjoy some ragtime or jazz later on. The tracks I used in this sampling are: BWV 537-Bach, La Campanella-Liszt, Pastorale-Beethoven, Nocturnes Op.9 No.1-Chopin. All flac 690Kbps, source from a nexus 10.

 

HD 600

One of the most praised headphone from what I read, my expectation for this one is huge, and ready to be blown away by it. The comforte is unparalled, the headband so light and the velorpads so soft that I hardly feel it on my head, and the open back design makes my ears feel so fresh after so many years behind the closed back headphones. The organ works from Bach sounds very nice but I think a little more bass would be perfect. The Liszt etude is my track to test the treble, it sounds a little bit dull compare to a real piano, which has a very clear, bell-like sound. It is the symphony by Beethoven really pulls this headphone apart from the others. The different instruments are extremely distinguishable and clear, and I can clearly hear the notes from the drums and double basses in the right wing compare to a sea of bassy vibration produced by my previous headphones. Overall the headphone is great, but I expected a lot more imaging from a open back headphone.

 

AKG 701

The AKG 701 called to my attention for its supreme soundstage mentioned by numerous people. While the soundstage is much, much bigger than that of the HD 600, I find its sound signature much to my disliking, too "spiky" for classical music in my opinion, maybe good for more modern musics.

 

HD 800

The model they had in store is broken, the wire connected to the right driver is exposed and disjointed, but it doesn't stop me from realising its glory---OMG THE SOUNDSTAGE IS AMMMMMMMAAAAAZZINNNGGGG!!!!!!!!! It has got almost double the soundstage of the AKG 701 and the sound of the HD 600, but much more lucid, penatrative, and crystalline. The trebles are exactly what I want them to be, and the bass is just the right amount --- warm, but not muddy. I can only imagine the sound coming out of this with proper amplification and properly working wires.

 

DT 990 pro

I heard mixed review about this one, my brother says it is too "soft", and some people says it is not very good. It is bigger than what I've thought, but very comfortable nontheless. Listening to the Beethoven symphony, I discovered that the instruments are less separable than the HD 600, everything kind of all jumbled up together. Bass is adequate compare to the ones I heard before, and treble not as clear as the HD 600. However the soundstage is greater than that of the HD 600, considering it it being a third of the HD 600's, I still think this is a good deal.

 

HE 400

I sampled this one in another store as the B&H doesn't have an opened one. It is not as heavy as people on the Internet described it to be, in fact, it is almost the same as any other headphones for me. The first thing that caught my attention is the bass. It is very different from the other headphones, quite difficult to describe using the "sound dictionary" I have right now. I find the treble very unlikable for the musics I listen to, too low to even call it "treble" in my point of view. The soundstage is quite limited from what I heard, but a little more open than that of the HD 600. All in all, not a headphone for me.

 

Conclusion

The headphoens I sampled this time are all without proper amplifications, for the source I used is merely a tablet (not to mention wire and DAC, which I have no idea how they affect the sound). I am planning to attend the next head-fi meetup in NY, looking forward to test some other headphone and make my final decision of buying one!

 

P.S. Please excuse me of any misuse of terminology and point out the areas I can improve on, it is a new field I am stepping in and need quite a lot guidance, thanks very much for reading!

Excellent reviews.  You seem to have nailed the characteristics of the various headphones perfectly.  I'm sure the HD600 would have more bass impact with proper amplification.  Bass suffers the most with a weak amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Thu, 20 February 2014, 23:27:13
Might be a dumb question and it doesn't completely match the thread but I listen to music most of the day and 99% of the time I only have one side of the headphones on my head. They are dt770s and don't hurt pushing one side off, mainly because want to hear what is around me during the day at times, I don't like feeling trapped(?) while I have my headphones on, but I dont like speakers or open headphones because I play music loud at times.

SO, to the point, after probably a year or so of doing this, my hearing is slightly different between the two ears. My left ear, which is the ear I actually listen to the headphones on all the time seem to pick up sound "better". Bass feels stronger in that ear, and overall it feels as if I can pick up more detail in that ear. Meanwhile my right ear, which never has the headphones on them feel dead(exaggeration, but best description I could give) in comparison. Not as much response to the bass and it just doesn't sound the same.

Does this seem like prior hearing damage in my right ear or that my left ear has just become accustomed to headphones all the time? IDK lol, it's not that big of a deal to me but I just wonder...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Fri, 21 February 2014, 01:41:33
Might be a dumb question and it doesn't completely match the thread but I listen to music most of the day and 99% of the time I only have one side of the headphones on my head. They are dt770s and don't hurt pushing one side off, mainly because want to hear what is around me during the day at times, I don't like feeling trapped(?) while I have my headphones on, but I dont like speakers or open headphones because I play music loud at times.

SO, to the point, after probably a year or so of doing this, my hearing is slightly different between the two ears. My left ear, which is the ear I actually listen to the headphones on all the time seem to pick up sound "better". Bass feels stronger in that ear, and overall it feels as if I can pick up more detail in that ear. Meanwhile my right ear, which never has the headphones on them feel dead(exaggeration, but best description I could give) in comparison. Not as much response to the bass and it just doesn't sound the same.

Does this seem like prior hearing damage in my right ear or that my left ear has just become accustomed to headphones all the time? IDK lol, it's not that big of a deal to me but I just wonder...

It's normal to have differences in hearing between both ears due to anatomical variation; e.g. having one ear canal smaller or angled differently than the other. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Fri, 21 February 2014, 08:42:48
Hi all, I need an advice. Here's my situation and what I am looking for: I recently bought some Soundmagic HP100 and I like them a lot. They were my first pair of real decent headphones. But now I want a second pair to have one at home and one at job.

Ideally, I would like a pair of good quality closed headphones with 80+ impedance (so that I am not limited when looking for an amp since many have 5-10 ohm output impedance and my HP100 have 32 ohm impedance and from what I have read it's bad if you follow the 1/8 rule). I am them to be neutral/balanced. But in closed headphones, the choice is limited from what I have found.

I have lately been interested in getting the DT880, but they are semi-open and I am not sure yet if I would use them at home or at job. At home, sometime there's some noise (laundry), but it's not that much of an issue. But if I decide to get them at job, well I don't want to disturb my coworkers (they are like 4-5 feet away from me). My model F is already enough :p

I aim for a budget of 150-250 ish ideally (shipped to Canada). So I would like a lot to know if there's other good choices out there and I would also like to know how bad the sound leak would be for coworkers if I decided to bring them to work.

Thx all!

You mentioned the DT880's interested you, perhaps the Beyer DT770 (32 or limited edition) or Custom One Pros

I don't like DT880s.  They are sonically inferior to HD600/650 due to weak bass impact and over-amplification of sounds around 8.5 kHz. They don't seem to block much outside sound, so the "semi-open" feature is pretty meaningless.   The DT770s have the same bump around 8.5 kHz.  Makes people sssound like sssnakesss.

I've never heard any "audiophile" closed full-size headphones I thought were at least decent.  Great isolation, sound quality and value can be had with in-ear modules however.


Hum, what's the difference between HD600 and HD650? Also, they don't seem to be in the same price range, more like double the price...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Fri, 21 February 2014, 09:46:51
The HD650 is supposely more "coloured" while the HD600 is more neutral from what I've heard
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 21 February 2014, 12:48:02
Conclusion

The headphoens I sampled this time are all without proper amplifications, for the source I used is merely a tablet (not to mention wire and DAC, which I have no idea how they affect the sound). I am planning to attend the next head-fi meetup in NY, looking forward to test some other headphone and make my final decision of buying one!


ALWAYS have a proper source.  Most of the headphones you reviewed will have lacking bass response and unreliable treble due to the source being underpowered.  An ipad would be unable to power any of the headphones in your review other than the FA-003Ti


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Fri, 21 February 2014, 19:08:09
The HD650 is supposely more "coloured" while the HD600 is more neutral from what I've heard

It is.  Very slightly though.  The HD650 has slightly less treble than neutral and slightly more bass than the HD600, in terms of volume.  I picked the HD600 over the HD650 because cymbals ..ahem.. "piatti sospeso" in particular sounded more lifelike to me on them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Sat, 22 February 2014, 20:02:19
Got these a few days ago but just got around to taking pics  :D

(http://i.imgur.com/3LPWJ4W.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/yti9swX.jpg)


Very pleased with the sound on these. The HE-400s are a little heavy but still very comfortable, and the drivers don't touch my ears at all.

Once I get a little more cash I'll add a Modi and some Mimic cables to the setup.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: antCB on Sat, 22 February 2014, 22:48:44
home:
Speakers : Creative Inspire P380 (2.1);
HeadPhones : Superlux HD681

onthego: Razer Electra (has 2 wires, 1 of them with built-in mic for mobile phones/Macs !)

Superlux HD681
(http://cdn.head-fi.org/e/ed/ed4c845b_Superlux-HD681.jpeg)
Razer Electra
(http://www.rtbplus.com/market/uploaded_files/files/other/razer-electra-black-gallery4_1.jpg)

None are attached to an AMP/fancy sound card :( ; straight into onboard card.
Both headsets were cheap and brand new, the superlux's were 10€ (12$/13$) me and a bunch of friends decided to buy them so we got a bulk order discount. Bought the electras because I really liked how they looked and they cost me 15€ or 20€ (18$~24$) after I cashed-in a discount on a recently purchased laptop (buy laptop, get 30% of its price in discount, something like that)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: filphil on Mon, 24 February 2014, 00:33:10
Got these a few days ago but just got around to taking pics  :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3LPWJ4W.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yti9swX.jpg)



Very pleased with the sound on these. The HE-400s are a little heavy but still very comfortable, and the drivers don't touch my ears at all.

Once I get a little more cash I'll add a Modi and some Mimic cables to the setup.

How's that combo working for you?  I was thinking of picking those two up if massdrop ever gets the he-400 back up.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ComradeSniper on Mon, 24 February 2014, 17:14:26
Got these a few days ago but just got around to taking pics  :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3LPWJ4W.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/yti9swX.jpg)



Very pleased with the sound on these. The HE-400s are a little heavy but still very comfortable, and the drivers don't touch my ears at all.

Once I get a little more cash I'll add a Modi and some Mimic cables to the setup.

How's that combo working for you?  I was thinking of picking those two up if massdrop ever gets the he-400 back up.

I don't have much else in the way of high quality audio gear to compare them to, but as far as fit and function they're absolutely great. I have no problem with wearing the headphones all day. I think it's a great combo, especially for the price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Tue, 25 February 2014, 22:03:05
Looks like Feenix finally unveiled their new audiophile level Aria headphones.

http://www.feenixcollection.com/aria.html

$349 pre-order
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Tue, 25 February 2014, 22:24:11
Looks like Feenix finally unveiled their new audiophile level Aria headphones.

http://www.feenixcollection.com/aria.html (http://www.feenixcollection.com/aria.html)

$349 pre-order


They look nice on paper!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 25 February 2014, 22:41:16
They is fischers!

fenix,

Driver unit: 50mm Impedance: 64 ohm Sensitivity: 101dB Frequency Response: 10Hz~26KHz Weight: 370g

fischer fa-003ti

Frequency range: 10-26000 Hz
Sensitivity: 101 dB
Impedance: 64 Ohm
Driver: 50mm

weight: 370g
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Tue, 25 February 2014, 22:45:35
They is fischers!

fenix,

Driver unit: 50mm Impedance: 64 ohm Sensitivity: 101dB Frequency Response: 10Hz~26KHz Weight: 370g

fischer fa-003ti

Frequency range: 10-26000 Hz
Sensitivity: 101 dB
Impedance: 64 Ohm
Driver: 50mm

weight: 370g

Huh? Is that a good thing? :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 25 February 2014, 23:26:49
They is fischers!

fenix,

Driver unit: 50mm Impedance: 64 ohm Sensitivity: 101dB Frequency Response: 10Hz~26KHz Weight: 370g

fischer fa-003ti

Frequency range: 10-26000 Hz
Sensitivity: 101 dB
Impedance: 64 Ohm
Driver: 50mm

weight: 370g

Huh? Is that a good thing? :P

generally? but it's uhm... much more expensive than a fischer.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Larken on Tue, 25 February 2014, 23:35:08
the general design does resemble that of the fischer, but doesn't the 003ti use 42mm drivers?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 26 February 2014, 02:01:08
the general design does resemble that of the fischer, but doesn't the 003ti use 42mm drivers?

:( I am seeing 42mm official on their site.  So my memory must be a little bad.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Larken on Wed, 26 February 2014, 02:14:52
the general design does resemble that of the fischer, but doesn't the 003ti use 42mm drivers?

:( I am seeing 42mm official on their site.  So my memory must be a little bad.

I don't think you're too far off though. It does resemble a custom tuned fischer 003 in many aspects, which is not a bad thing. That price tag, however....  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Novus on Wed, 26 February 2014, 02:15:21
USB adapter and 6.3mm Stereo jack adapter included

:'(

349 bucks and it's still using a 1/8 jack.
That's a bit of a tell tale sign that it's way overpriced ... I mean aside from it being a fischer.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 26 February 2014, 02:27:36
USB adapter and 6.3mm Stereo jack adapter included

:'(

349 bucks and it's still using a 1/8 jack.
That's a bit of a tell tale sign that it's way overpriced ... I mean aside from it being a fischer.



I'm only suspecting it of being a fischer.

The jack is not a bad size :-/

I see an alu band, wood cups, and a well spec'ed driver.  I'd just want to see measurements.

Definitely would not buy without seeing measurements/review/listening.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bullveyr on Wed, 26 February 2014, 02:28:09
They have the same OEM supplier (Yoga) but these are different headphones: Aria = Yoga CD-2500 (http://www.yoga.com.tw/style/frame/templates15/product_detail.asp?lang=2&customer_id=2000&name_id=78835&content_set=color_7&Directory_ID=60588&id=346448)

Title: Re: Newbie's review of his first headphone sampling run
Post by: Novus on Wed, 26 February 2014, 03:19:09
Prelude

So I found myself mysteriously drawn into the headphone business a couple months ago, and got myself a first pair of "decent" fullsize headphone according to a head-fi-er's advice --- the fischer fa-003 --- it was praised for its unmatched neutrality and soundstage at its price level. However I was quite disapointed by the sound it produced, so I went on and did some research online, reading reviews, surfing reddits... Eventually I realised that my ears are the most reliable advicer I can ever have, so I decided to sample some headphones.

 

I went to B&H 9th avenue in Mannhattan following other people's suggestions, with a pair of ears long wanted to experience the "hifi" sound, I begun my jounery...

 

Music

Baptised by classical music through all my life, and being a piano player myself, my ears just cannot bear the noise and disturbance created by pop music, so my catagory is very limited, but I am hoping to enjoy some ragtime or jazz later on. The tracks I used in this sampling are: BWV 537-Bach, La Campanella-Liszt, Pastorale-Beethoven, Nocturnes Op.9 No.1-Chopin. All flac 690Kbps, source from a nexus 10.

 

HD 600

One of the most praised headphone from what I read, my expectation for this one is huge, and ready to be blown away by it. The comforte is unparalled, the headband so light and the velorpads so soft that I hardly feel it on my head, and the open back design makes my ears feel so fresh after so many years behind the closed back headphones. The organ works from Bach sounds very nice but I think a little more bass would be perfect. The Liszt etude is my track to test the treble, it sounds a little bit dull compare to a real piano, which has a very clear, bell-like sound. It is the symphony by Beethoven really pulls this headphone apart from the others. The different instruments are extremely distinguishable and clear, and I can clearly hear the notes from the drums and double basses in the right wing compare to a sea of bassy vibration produced by my previous headphones. Overall the headphone is great, but I expected a lot more imaging from a open back headphone.

 

AKG 701

The AKG 701 called to my attention for its supreme soundstage mentioned by numerous people. While the soundstage is much, much bigger than that of the HD 600, I find its sound signature much to my disliking, too "spiky" for classical music in my opinion, maybe good for more modern musics.

 

HD 800

The model they had in store is broken, the wire connected to the right driver is exposed and disjointed, but it doesn't stop me from realising its glory---OMG THE SOUNDSTAGE IS AMMMMMMMAAAAAZZINNNGGGG!!!!!!!!! It has got almost double the soundstage of the AKG 701 and the sound of the HD 600, but much more lucid, penatrative, and crystalline. The trebles are exactly what I want them to be, and the bass is just the right amount --- warm, but not muddy. I can only imagine the sound coming out of this with proper amplification and properly working wires.

 

DT 990 pro

I heard mixed review about this one, my brother says it is too "soft", and some people says it is not very good. It is bigger than what I've thought, but very comfortable nontheless. Listening to the Beethoven symphony, I discovered that the instruments are less separable than the HD 600, everything kind of all jumbled up together. Bass is adequate compare to the ones I heard before, and treble not as clear as the HD 600. However the soundstage is greater than that of the HD 600, considering it it being a third of the HD 600's, I still think this is a good deal.

 

HE 400

I sampled this one in another store as the B&H doesn't have an opened one. It is not as heavy as people on the Internet described it to be, in fact, it is almost the same as any other headphones for me. The first thing that caught my attention is the bass. It is very different from the other headphones, quite difficult to describe using the "sound dictionary" I have right now. I find the treble very unlikable for the musics I listen to, too low to even call it "treble" in my point of view. The soundstage is quite limited from what I heard, but a little more open than that of the HD 600. All in all, not a headphone for me.

 

Conclusion

The headphoens I sampled this time are all without proper amplifications, for the source I used is merely a tablet (not to mention wire and DAC, which I have no idea how they affect the sound). I am planning to attend the next head-fi meetup in NY, looking forward to test some other headphone and make my final decision of buying one!

 

P.S. Please excuse me of any misuse of terminology and point out the areas I can improve on, it is a new field I am stepping in and need quite a lot guidance, thanks very much for reading!

Oh hey cool, I went to this B&H last time I was in NY! It took me a while to realize this was the same B&H that I see online so frequently.

That's an interesting review.
Opposite of what I expected.
Since you're not using a proper source, I expected you to be underwhelmed by the "better" headphones because, if anything you can draw out more from lower end cans then you can from higher end cans with a naked setup. I've always been an advocate that higher end cans always require an equally as nice setup to bring out the full fidelity of the sound and are quite underwhelming when not properly sourced and amped - so it's very nice to hear when somebody says otherwise.


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rena on Wed, 26 February 2014, 16:29:23
I'm noticing many mentions of the HD600 in this thread. How do they compare to the DT-770? Because that's what I use now and I'm really considering getting the HD600 although I don't know if I could justify $350 on another pair of headphones, which is ironic considering how much I've spent on keyboards.

I'm assuming the sound signature is completely different, or something.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Wed, 26 February 2014, 16:46:55
I'm noticing many mentions of the HD600 in this thread. How do they compare to the DT-770? Because that's what I use now and I'm really considering getting the HD600 although I don't know if I could justify $350 on another pair of headphones, which is ironic considering how much I've spent on keyboards.

I'm assuming the sound signature is completely different, or something.

PROBLEM SOLVER! Sell keyboards. Buy headphones. I kid :)

Don't own either but I have the HD598s, a having set of open-canned headphones is refreshing change of pace.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Wed, 26 February 2014, 16:51:05
I'm noticing many mentions of the HD600 in this thread. How do they compare to the DT-770? Because that's what I use now and I'm really considering getting the HD600 although I don't know if I could justify $350 on another pair of headphones, which is ironic considering how much I've spent on keyboards.

I'm assuming the sound signature is completely different, or something.

im sure pointyfox will tell you how the HD600 are the second coming of w/e god you believe in and will cure world hunger.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Wed, 26 February 2014, 18:09:13
I'm noticing many mentions of the HD600 in this thread. How do they compare to the DT-770? Because that's what I use now and I'm really considering getting the HD600 although I don't know if I could justify $350 on another pair of headphones, which is ironic considering how much I've spent on keyboards.

I'm assuming the sound signature is completely different, or something.

im sure pointyfox will tell you how the HD600 are the second coming of w/e god you believe in and will cure world hunger.


What about aids?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Wed, 26 February 2014, 21:20:04
They is fischers!

fenix,

Driver unit: 50mm Impedance: 64 ohm Sensitivity: 101dB Frequency Response: 10Hz~26KHz Weight: 370g

fischer fa-003ti

Frequency range: 10-26000 Hz
Sensitivity: 101 dB
Impedance: 64 Ohm
Driver: 50mm

weight: 370g

Huh? Is that a good thing? :P

generally? but it's uhm... much more expensive than a fischer.

:| I got mine for $80 shipping from Australia...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 27 February 2014, 16:06:56
Next level travel setup:
Zune 120
Fiio e06
JH5 CIEM
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 27 February 2014, 17:18:15
Next level travel setup:
Zune 120
Fiio e06
JH5 CIEM

Didn't like anything enough to get over the 06?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 27 February 2014, 19:37:29
I'm once again thinking about snagging an e17. E11 is a good value but I'm worried about the build quality. But I wanna check out an e12 and other options before I pull the trigger. The e06 will be my trusty sidekick for now XD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 27 February 2014, 20:14:59
I'm once again thinking about snagging an e17. E11 is a good value but I'm worried about the build quality. But I wanna check out an e12 and other options before I pull the trigger. The e06 will be my trusty sidekick for now XD

I think, if you like the sound of the zune, you should get an e12
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 27 February 2014, 22:18:59
Holy giant CPTBadAssEars

YOU HAVE ENORMOUS IEMS!

(http://i.imgur.com/dPGzAh2.gif)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Coreda on Fri, 28 February 2014, 01:45:15
Next level travel setup:

The Metroid of IEMs
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Fri, 28 February 2014, 16:50:04
So I got a offer for AD900x for $140 shipped, should I buy it or save for DT880 (used)? I only listen to classical music and people says they are quite good for that genre.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 28 February 2014, 17:04:07
That's a good price, I'd get them for that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Fri, 28 February 2014, 18:00:30
I'm hoping this package with a customs charge I'm picking up in the morning is my ATH M50s from Massdrop. Although with the shipping and this BS from HMRC, I haven't actually saved myself any money.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 01 March 2014, 15:40:18
It was! They are so awesome looking, and thank's to Margo, I have found out that the 45mm jack unscrews to reveal a 3.5mm jack :D super happy!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LechnerDE on Mon, 03 March 2014, 07:01:56
Sorry, I haven't read through this huge thread so I'll just ask directly:

Are the Beyerdynamic DT990 Premium 600ohm good headphones for 240$ or can I get something similar for less? I mainly need headphoes for gaming and listening to some music while browsing the Internet.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt990?mode=guest_open&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Massdrop%20-%20Master&utm_campaign=Product%20Announcement%202014-02-28&utm_content=Final

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 03 March 2014, 07:33:10
Add some big bucks for an amp, if you don't have one yet.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LechnerDE on Mon, 03 March 2014, 07:40:59
Add some big bucks for an amp, if you don't have one yet.

No, I don't have one. Any recommendations?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 03 March 2014, 09:00:00
Nope. Maybe someone else would chime in. I'm just pointing out that DT 990 (especially high-impedance) need amplification. For example, HD 5x8 are much easier to drive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 03 March 2014, 09:14:08
I am the broken record.

http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393859601&sr=8-1&keywords=nvx+xpt100

http://www.jaycar.co.uk/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&form=CAT2&SUBCATID=1015#4

Same headphone
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Thu, 06 March 2014, 07:54:55
I think you can get an used DT990 on headfi for about $170 or less.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 06 March 2014, 16:33:49
Add some big bucks for an amp, if you don't have one yet.

No, I don't have one. Any recommendations?

Sound Blaster Live Value.  Costs like $0.50 and drives my HD600s just as well as the $600 HEED CanAmp and nearly as well as my $180 Xonar Essense STX card and $900+ improved Earmax Pro.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: delobe on Fri, 07 March 2014, 02:42:50
Sennheiser 558, very comfortable. Hifiman RE-400 iems.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Sat, 08 March 2014, 12:53:42
Sennheiser 558, very comfortable. Hifiman RE-400 iems.
The RE-400 are magical for the price in my opinion.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Sat, 08 March 2014, 13:12:25
People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: delobe on Sat, 08 March 2014, 13:18:22
Sennheiser 558, very comfortable. Hifiman RE-400 iems.
The RE-400 are magical for the price in my opinion.

Very true, even if it is an annoying glimpse into high end. I don't appreciate them enough because I haven't tried other iem's at that price point and beyond. But a solid choice and minimal aluminium construction
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AKIMbO on Sat, 08 March 2014, 13:19:34
People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?

Schiit vali/modi stack....sounds good, a little sibilant, hella uncomfortable compared to my Beyer DT 990 premium 600ohm.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Sat, 08 March 2014, 13:24:21
People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?

Schiit vali/modi stack....sounds good, a little sibilant, hella uncomfortable compared to my Beyer DT 990 premium 600ohm.

Yeah, they're pretty goddamn heavy and don't really hold a candle to my HD-600s in terms of comfort either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AKIMbO on Sat, 08 March 2014, 13:46:21
People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?

Schiit vali/modi stack....sounds good, a little sibilant, hella uncomfortable compared to my Beyer DT 990 premium 600ohm.

Yeah, they're pretty goddamn heavy and don't really hold a candle to my HD-600s in terms of comfort either.

I've even got the Beyer headband on the HE-400 and it's still crazy uncomfortable.  I'm hoping velour pads will make the HE's a little more like the DT's...but it's probably a lost cause.  Anyways, I'm looking to step-up to some Fostex TH600.  I heard the Denon D700's at B&H in Manhattan a few years back and loved them. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 08 March 2014, 17:45:24
People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?

Schiit vali/modi stack....sounds good, a little sibilant, hella uncomfortable compared to my Beyer DT 990 premium 600ohm.

Yeah, they're pretty goddamn heavy and don't really hold a candle to my HD-600s in terms of comfort either.

woman
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dude on Sun, 09 March 2014, 11:03:21
I'm so excited.  My Project Ember tube amp comes tomorrow (I'll be pairing with my Mad Dogs), and my Bottlehead Crack comes Tuesday (I'll be pairing with my HD 650's).  I've read that these are both ~10 hour builds, so next week / weekend will be busy!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 09 March 2014, 13:01:14
I'm so excited.  My Project Ember tube amp comes tomorrow (I'll be pairing with my Mad Dogs), and my Bottlehead Crack comes Tuesday (I'll be pairing with my HD 650's).  I've read that these are both ~10 hour builds, so next week / weekend will be busy!

I'm sorta curious (as that's REALLY expensive), why did you get both?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dude on Sun, 09 March 2014, 18:26:42

I'm sorta curious (as that's REALLY expensive), why did you get both?

I'm building 2 setups.  The 650's are at home, since I have no problem with a nice open headphone.  The Mad Dogs are for work, since I need a closed headphone so I don't disturb others.

As far as why those 2 amps, the Crack is supposed to be incredible with the 650's, so I had to get it.  That amp won't work at all for the Mad Dogs though, since it's an OTL amp & the Mad Dogs are 32 ohm.  I've heard good things about the Project Ember (And it's not too crazy expensive), which is why I decided to give it a shot.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 09 March 2014, 18:47:13

I'm sorta curious (as that's REALLY expensive), why did you get both?

I'm building 2 setups.  The 650's are at home, since I have no problem with a nice open headphone.  The Mad Dogs are for work, since I need a closed headphone so I don't disturb others.

As far as why those 2 amps, the Crack is supposed to be incredible with the 650's, so I had to get it.  That amp won't work at all for the Mad Dogs though, since it's an OTL amp & the Mad Dogs are 32 ohm.  I've heard good things about the Project Ember (And it's not too crazy expensive), which is why I decided to give it a shot.

Ah, I don't see an issue really, but I liked hearing the Mad Dogs on Crack xD.  It's a decent amp indeed.

FYI Impedance: 50 ohm for the Mad Dog T50RP drivers
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ricercar on Sun, 09 March 2014, 20:47:22
> People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?

HE400 < Self-built O2 < iPod Mini (128 Gig modded, x2, because it takes over 200 GB for my entire library in lossless format).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Mon, 10 March 2014, 11:50:49
> People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?

HE400 < Self-built O2 < iPod Mini (128 Gig modded, x2, because it takes over 200 GB for my entire library in lossless format).

Audio-GD NFB-10, overkill but it's great.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 10 March 2014, 14:58:34
> People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?

HE400 < Self-built O2 < iPod Mini (128 Gig modded, x2, because it takes over 200 GB for my entire library in lossless format).

Audio-GD NFB-10, overkill but it's great.

I'll be getting one of these to try in the next day or two.  Too bad I just got rid of my he400s.  Oh well, I'm sure it'll rock my k712s/545/lcd2s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sinzz on Thu, 13 March 2014, 20:43:01
Hi guys!

Currently looking into getting my first set of decent cans, but I'm stuck deciding between 3 greatly reviewed headphones. My budget is also roughly $150.

These are the three contenders right now:

What I know is that all three of these are superb headphones but each one has it's differences; Sony seems to produce the best sound, Onkyo has the best looks, and AudioTechnica has the "best of both worlds."

I know that the most popular one seems to be the m50's or at least from browsing the web. But I wanted to get the opinions of my fellow GHers to see what the pro's and cons are.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 13 March 2014, 21:23:31
Another option would be to keep an eye on amazon for a pair of k550/551s.  I've seen as low as 120 for a pair, right now, lowest is about 150 through amazon warehouse.  I think they're a better option than the three listed and much more comfortable.

Also, about $50 more gets you he-300s, if you want something open backed.  I still prefer the k55x, though.  Super comfy, easy to mod, good looking.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Fri, 14 March 2014, 02:43:58
People rockin' the HE-400s: what are you driving them with, if anything?



Schiit vali/modi stack....sounds good, a little sibilant, hella uncomfortable compared to my Beyer DT 990 premium 600ohm.

I would also recommend schiit headphone amplifiers. I have a dt770 on an schiit Asgard 2. Really solid construction and good sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 21 May 2014, 03:11:57
Enjoying #vintage AKGK240M (plugged into C&C BH). \m/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Wed, 21 May 2014, 04:31:55
recently bought an presonus hp4 so that people can use the home cinema when its late.

(http://www.presonus.com/uploads/products/2078/mediabar/1/mediabar78.jpg)

http://www.presonus.com/products/hp4 (http://www.presonus.com/products/hp4)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Wed, 21 May 2014, 06:36:06
recently bought an presonus hp4 so that people can use the home cinema when its late.

Show Image
(http://www.presonus.com/uploads/products/2078/mediabar/1/mediabar78.jpg)


http://www.presonus.com/products/hp4 (http://www.presonus.com/products/hp4)

Very nice!  I'm a big fan of the Presonus gear, I've got a Central Station as a desktop headphone amp for when I want to switch back to digital.  Super clear sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Wed, 21 May 2014, 07:00:39
recently bought an presonus hp4 so that people can use the home cinema when its late.

Show Image
(http://www.presonus.com/uploads/products/2078/mediabar/1/mediabar78.jpg)


http://www.presonus.com/products/hp4 (http://www.presonus.com/products/hp4)

Very nice!  I'm a big fan of the Presonus gear, I've got a Central Station as a desktop headphone amp for when I want to switch back to digital.  Super clear sound.

Nice! Do you have some kind of home studio? That isnt exactly a typical thing to have in your home.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Wed, 21 May 2014, 08:52:38
Nice! Do you have some kind of home studio? That isnt exactly a typical thing to have in your home.

Not a home studio, but I do have a regular online game session with my friends in Texas, so I have a desk mike, a small mixer, and some other random gear.  I actually got the Presonus based on reviews on the Head-fi.org forums, used units aren't too pricy on ebay.  They got a bad rep for having bad power supplies, but I cobbled together a 3-into-1 PS that should outlast me.   :p

When I was looking into digital audio options I also picked up a Behringer DEQ2496, which has a nice range of digital EQ tools.  Since I am partially deaf in one ear (I can't hear upper registers very well), I use the equalizer to shape the audio feed before sending it to the Presonus for the headphone amp.

And then I got a tube amp and dedicated DAC, so I guess I've gone a bit overboard for desktop audio.   ;D   
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Wed, 21 May 2014, 11:16:57
Nice! Do you have some kind of home studio? That isnt exactly a typical thing to have in your home.

Not a home studio, but I do have a regular online game session with my friends in Texas, so I have a desk mike, a small mixer, and some other random gear.  I actually got the Presonus based on reviews on the Head-fi.org forums, used units aren't too pricy on ebay.  They got a bad rep for having bad power supplies, but I cobbled together a 3-into-1 PS that should outlast me.   :p

When I was looking into digital audio options I also picked up a Behringer DEQ2496, which has a nice range of digital EQ tools.  Since I am partially deaf in one ear (I can't hear upper registers very well), I use the equalizer to shape the audio feed before sending it to the Presonus for the headphone amp.

And then I got a tube amp and dedicated DAC, so I guess I've gone a bit overboard for desktop audio.   ;D


Nice! what dac and tube amp are you using?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Wed, 21 May 2014, 11:24:25
Nice! what dac and tube amp are you using?

The DAC is a Meier Audio StageDAC, and the amplifier is the Darkvoice 336SE.  Very enjoyable, probably end-game for my audio needs.

(And not technically headphone-specific, so I'll refrain from getting too far off-topic!   ;D )
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zombly on Wed, 21 May 2014, 11:42:46
Debating which headphones to get ~100 for pc gaming, I use a clip on mic so a microphone isn't necessary I wanted to purchase the pro monitor headphones from Jaycar, but their site doesn't like my computer? I e-mailed them about my order saying I would purchase it if they could just do it up on my account for me properly, however no e-mail back in over 2 weeks so I gave up on them for the moment.

Any other ideas?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Wed, 21 May 2014, 11:50:38
Debating which headphones to get ~100 for pc gaming, I use a clip on mic so a microphone isn't necessary I wanted to purchase the pro monitor headphones from Jaycar, but their site doesn't like my computer? I e-mailed them about my order saying I would purchase it if they could just do it up on my account for me properly, however no e-mail back in over 2 weeks so I gave up on them for the moment.

Any other ideas?

I've been very happy with the ATH M50's, those seem to be running around $120 (I got them on a X-Mas sale for $99).  Conversely, I'd steer clear of the Turtle Beach offerings, my son got a pair as a gift and neither of us were impressed.  Sound is really tubby, accentuating the bass but poor mid and high-range quality.

If you're open to trying some IEMs, I can unreservedly recommend the MEElectronics Sport-Fi M6 In-Ear Headphones.  I got a pair of these to use while jogging, and I have to say they're so comfortable I find myself listening to them during throughout the day as well.  And the price can't be beat; $18.99 at Amazon.    :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Zombly on Wed, 21 May 2014, 14:54:21
Debating which headphones to get ~100 for pc gaming, I use a clip on mic so a microphone isn't necessary I wanted to purchase the pro monitor headphones from Jaycar, but their site doesn't like my computer? I e-mailed them about my order saying I would purchase it if they could just do it up on my account for me properly, however no e-mail back in over 2 weeks so I gave up on them for the moment.

Any other ideas?

I've been very happy with the ATH M50's, those seem to be running around $120 (I got them on a X-Mas sale for $99).  Conversely, I'd steer clear of the Turtle Beach offerings, my son got a pair as a gift and neither of us were impressed.  Sound is really tubby, accentuating the bass but poor mid and high-range quality.

If you're open to trying some IEMs, I can unreservedly recommend the MEElectronics Sport-Fi M6 In-Ear Headphones.  I got a pair of these to use while jogging, and I have to say they're so comfortable I find myself listening to them during throughout the day as well.  And the price can't be beat; $18.99 at Amazon.    :thumb:

Thanks I'll look into them, for earbuds I need to keep the sound out a bit more as my girlfriend is the only reason I'm thinking about headphones I'm not 100% convinced, as we may be moving and maybe my computer setup can just be put in a different spot, just when I'm on skype gaming with friends tends to get noisy..

I have been looking at the m50's there around ~150 in Canada, but maybe I'll just wait for a sale, I appreciate the information. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 23 May 2014, 18:20:04
Nothing too fancy like you guys, but I finally got my Audio Technica ATH-AD900X! Compared to my ATH-A900X, the openness is so airy. Love it! Only other pair of open headphones I had to compare was my Koss Ksc75. Now to burn them in slowly and over time :)

Will upload photos when opportunity arises.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 23 May 2014, 19:13:36
Nothing too fancy like you guys, but I finally got my Audio Technica ATH-AD900X! Compared to my ATH-A900X, the openness is so airy. Love it! Only other pair of open headphones I had to compare was my Koss Ksc75. Now to burn them in slowly and over time :)

Will upload photos when opportunity arises.


Please take photos and don't claim burn-in exists!  If anything it's mentally adjusting to the headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Fri, 23 May 2014, 19:26:00
I have recently since got some PC350SE's for gaming, I think for a gaming headset they are awesome, such a joy to use compared the the Astro A40's I used to have.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Fri, 23 May 2014, 19:42:02
Nothing too fancy like you guys, but I finally got my Audio Technica ATH-AD900X! Compared to my ATH-A900X, the openness is so airy. Love it! Only other pair of open headphones I had to compare was my Koss Ksc75. Now to burn them in slowly and over time :)

Will upload photos when opportunity arises.


Please take photos and don't claim burn-in exists!  If anything it's mentally adjusting to the headphones.

Will do, good sir. These are absolutely one of the most beautiful pair of headphones I've owned and just overall! I want to get some good shots of this baby girl.

Not sure if burn-in is entirely true but what you say makes sense too! My ears definitely need to adjust, having come from mainly closed headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 27 May 2014, 21:18:51
beautiful pair of headphones

I don't care what people say... I do sometimes care about what my audio equipment looks like.

(http://i.imgur.com/fwyb0O9.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Tf4TvKV.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/7bv8mId.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Tue, 27 May 2014, 21:23:57
beautiful pair of headphones

I don't care what people say... I do sometimes care about what my audio equipment looks like.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fwyb0O9.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Tf4TvKV.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7bv8mId.jpg)



Looks like larvae in the first picture.

(http://i.imgur.com/fwyb0O9.jpg)
(http://maria.fremlin.de/stagbeetles/lc_larva_hcw9.JPG)
(http://extension.entm.purdue.edu/fieldcropsipm/images/insects/whitegrub01.jpg)

¡Delicioso!

inb4 GrubPhonz or GrubBudz.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 27 May 2014, 21:37:15
Quote
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fwyb0O9.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Tf4TvKV.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7bv8mId.jpg)



Looks like larvae in the first picture.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fwyb0O9.jpg)

Show Image
(http://maria.fremlin.de/stagbeetles/lc_larva_hcw9.JPG)

Show Image
(http://extension.entm.purdue.edu/fieldcropsipm/images/insects/whitegrub01.jpg)


¡Delicioso!

inb4 GrubPhonz or GrubBudz.

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x54/TrueX-Ray/TNG%20Caption%20This/TNGCaption106c.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Tue, 27 May 2014, 21:38:28
 :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 28 May 2014, 00:50:59
Dat ear canal...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Wed, 28 May 2014, 01:13:40
AudioTechnica ATH-AD700 Fiio E11 and a Antilion Modmic 3.0 connected to a soundblaster z
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Dubsgalore on Wed, 28 May 2014, 12:17:20
Still in love with my Mad dogs and Aune T1
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suby4me on Wed, 28 May 2014, 12:25:04
using ATH - AD700 and Soundmagic HP100 with bravo 3 and Aune T1
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Wed, 28 May 2014, 12:53:04
beautiful pair of headphones

I don't care what people say... I do sometimes care about what my audio equipment looks like.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/fwyb0O9.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/Tf4TvKV.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7bv8mId.jpg)


Dood, those look sweet! I definitely want to try something like those out sometime.

I really want to take pictures of my ATH-AD900X but can't until end of this month bc out of town. Sound great? Awesome! Look great too?! Even more awesome.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 02 June 2014, 18:54:22
I really, really wanted to abandon this hobby, but... I've gone crazy with headphones recently. I'd been kinda settled on HD 565 Ovation with beyer-like headband cushion (because comfort), HD 25-13 with rockboxed Sansa Clip Zip for portable use and HD 250 Linear II plugged into C&C BH for actual listening sessions. Now, I have
The fostex has awfully veiled... actually everything but bass—and some people seem to like it. That one was a mistake.

I heard lots of good things about superlux, thus I wanted to try one. For the price, it's a beast. And DAT BASE. It's probably the most powerful bass I've heard in a pair of headphones, while not sacrificing everything else. Much more powerful than HD 250 Linear II (!!!), although not nearly as delicate, but that's to be expected.

Ummm, I just want Sennheiser to support the HD 250 line once again; especially fix the cable. -_-
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Mon, 02 June 2014, 19:12:29
I am looking into some IEMs recently, only listen to classical music. Price range $100~200 Any suggestions?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Tue, 03 June 2014, 21:25:44
looking for some headphones, mainly classical with some electronic. Sub 100 perferably

Also need a cheap DAC to go with it
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: anoxy on Tue, 03 June 2014, 21:26:33
I am looking into some IEMs recently, only listen to classical music. Price range $100~200 Any suggestions?
Only listen to classical music? Etymotic ER4.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Thu, 05 June 2014, 00:28:41
looking for some headphones, mainly classical with some electronic. Sub 100 perferably

Also need a cheap DAC to go with it

audiotechnica ath-m50's are on massdrop quite often in the price range your discussing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Thu, 05 June 2014, 00:42:58
looking for some headphones, mainly classical with some electronic. Sub 100 perferably

Also need a cheap DAC to go with it

audiotechnica ath-m50's are on massdrop quite often in the price range your discussing.

Ended up getting a hd595 from classifieds for $45. Now just need a DAC
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Thu, 05 June 2014, 07:45:26
I am looking into some IEMs recently, only listen to classical music. Price range $100~200 Any suggestions?
Only listen to classical music? Etymotic ER4.

How about HF5, how are they compare to ER4?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: boost on Thu, 05 June 2014, 07:54:28
Got a pair of S4's and had ATH900x. looking for IEM with more than neutral bass...Thinking IE8
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sacratoy on Thu, 05 June 2014, 12:18:32
(http://i.imgur.com/TDkkdOwl.jpg)

My Beoplay H6 headset. I have a Schiit Stack (Magni;Modi) on the way. I have all that posted once they arrive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 05 June 2014, 12:37:15
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TDkkdOwl.jpg)


My Beoplay H6 headset. I have a Schiit Stack (Magni;Modi) on the way. I have all that posted once they arrive.

How is the comfort and weight with that headset?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: UnlikeAny on Thu, 05 June 2014, 12:41:55
Koss PortaPros, but my goal is to get Audio-Technica AD700x so I could have a wallhack for my ears.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Thu, 05 June 2014, 13:06:49
Need a cheap dac to go with a sennheiser hd595, preferably under $75
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Thu, 05 June 2014, 13:07:55
Need a cheap dac to go with a sennheiser hd595, preferably under $75

for the money just spend a little more and grab an odac.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Thu, 05 June 2014, 13:26:32
Need a cheap dac to go with a sennheiser hd595, preferably under $75

for the money just spend a little more and grab an odac.

What's the difference? I'm an audiophile noob
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 05 June 2014, 13:49:18
Need a cheap dac to go with a sennheiser hd595, preferably under $75

for the money just spend a little more and grab an odac.

What's the difference? I'm an audiophile noob

the difference in what?  You also need a headphone amplifier to go with your DAC.  DACs produce a line level output and the signal needs to be further amplified.

the odac is not much more expensive than $75 and it has benchmark level performance.  That's why he suggested it to you.  Go do some research.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Thu, 05 June 2014, 13:58:03
Need a cheap dac to go with a sennheiser hd595, preferably under $75

for the money just spend a little more and grab an odac.

What's the difference? I'm an audiophile noob

the difference in what?  You also need a headphone amplifier to go with your DAC.  DACs produce a line level output and the signal needs to be further amplified.

the odac is not much more expensive than $75 and it has benchmark level performance.  That's why he suggested it to you.  Go do some research.

Hello pacifist. I think you wonderd what the difference between an DAC and an ODAC is. DAC is a digital to analog converter and the ODAC is a product from mayflower electronics consisting of a dac and a headphone amplifier in one box. Sorry if I missinterpreted your answer.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JPG on Thu, 05 June 2014, 14:10:59
Need a cheap dac to go with a sennheiser hd595, preferably under $75

for the money just spend a little more and grab an odac.

What's the difference? I'm an audiophile noob


I am a n00b myself, but from my little experience, I would suggest to not buy a dac until you have the money to buy a decent one that you will keep. While a DAC is important to improve your sound, if you are on a budget I would recommend to go one step at a time. I was able to use my DT 880 600 ohm directly from my motherboard at home until I got a Aune T1 and even if I agree that the sound improved when I used the Aune, it was still a good sound out of the motherboard and we are talking of a 600 ohm headphones. At job I have 32 ohms headphones and I use my laptop for it and I must agree that the soundcard of the laptop seems lesser than the one in my motherboard at home, yet I very rarely suffer heavily from it (except some songs where I can hear a click sound).


Just my own experience on it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 05 June 2014, 14:11:07
Hello pacifist. I think you wonderd what the difference between an DAC and an ODAC is. DAC is a digital to analog converter and the ODAC is a product from mayflower electronics consisting of a dac and a headphone amplifier in one box. Sorry if I missinterpreted your answer.


blackbox, I would refrain from telling pacifist so much without having all of your facts straight.  He will gladly use your information as fact instead of doing his own research.

Mayflower electronics is one of the MANY small businesses who use NwAvGuy's ODAC design.

The ODAC is known as the objective digital to analog converter.  It does not contain a combo amplifier.

The combo amplifier and ODAC is called an O2 + ODAC combo.

The same device can be purchased from a number of small electronics companies, most notably JDS labs.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sacratoy on Thu, 05 June 2014, 14:27:45
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TDkkdOwl.jpg)


My Beoplay H6 headset. I have a Schiit Stack (Magni;Modi) on the way. I have all that posted once they arrive.

How is the comfort and weight with that headset?

So far, they're the most comfortable headphones I've worn. I wear glasses, so I usually need to worry about how the ear cups are going to press against the arms of my glasses, but with these headphones its a non-issue. The ear cups are lamb skin wrapped over memory foam, and the top strap is breathable mesh over more memory foam.

They are also pretty darn light, at 8.11oz (230g). I don't really mind wearing them for long periods of time. They're also great for travel since they're so light, and have inline audio controls.



Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: anoxy on Thu, 05 June 2014, 14:34:00
I am looking into some IEMs recently, only listen to classical music. Price range $100~200 Any suggestions?
Only listen to classical music? Etymotic ER4.

How about HF5, how are they compare to ER4?

They are very comparable; not entirely on the same level in terms of clarity and detail, however they do boast the same sound signature and many people swear by them. They offer amazing isolation, especially once you get used to the triple flange tips; you can try out foam tips like Complys, but you might find it muddies up the sound a bit. One feature the HF5 lacks that I liked on my ER4 is the ability to remove and replace the cable. This was especially nice because the extremely deep insertion of the ER4 has made them rather notorious for microphonic feedback on the cable (rubbing on your shirt and such), though they do come with a shirt clip.

I opted for a softer aftermarket cable and it helped somewhat, but I've heard some say the newer versions have fixed this issue somewhat...not sure about the HF5 but I think it's much less of an issue. The ER4 comes with a couple different impedances I believe. Mine was the ER4B which really required an AMP to shine; playing it straight out my clipzip or ipod just didn't give it enough oomph. I think you'd be fine without one on the HF5.

Hope some of that helps.


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 05 June 2014, 15:58:57
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TDkkdOwl.jpg)


My Beoplay H6 headset. I have a Schiit Stack (Magni;Modi) on the way. I have all that posted once they arrive.

How is the comfort and weight with that headset?

So far, they're the most comfortable headphones I've worn. I wear glasses, so I usually need to worry about how the ear cups are going to press against the arms of my glasses, but with these headphones its a non-issue. The ear cups are lamb skin wrapped over memory foam, and the top strap is breathable mesh over more memory foam.

They are also pretty darn light, at 8.11oz (230g). I don't really mind wearing them for long periods of time. They're also great for travel since they're so light, and have inline audio controls.

That's really not heavy and not light... sort of like that comfortable medium.

I like that you can remove the cable and use it in either ear.  I believe those guys let you link two headphones together.  Is that correct?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Thu, 05 June 2014, 16:17:38
Need a cheap dac to go with a sennheiser hd595, preferably under $75

for the money just spend a little more and grab an odac.

What's the difference? I'm an audiophile noob

the difference in what?  You also need a headphone amplifier to go with your DAC.  DACs produce a line level output and the signal needs to be further amplified.

the odac is not much more expensive than $75 and it has benchmark level performance.  That's why he suggested it to you.  Go do some research.

Hello pacifist. I think you wonderd what the difference between an DAC and an ODAC is. DAC is a digital to analog converter and the ODAC is a product from mayflower electronics consisting of a dac and a headphone amplifier in one box. Sorry if I missinterpreted your answer.

Ah that makes sense
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sacratoy on Thu, 05 June 2014, 16:23:02
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TDkkdOwl.jpg)


My Beoplay H6 headset. I have a Schiit Stack (Magni;Modi) on the way. I have all that posted once they arrive.

How is the comfort and weight with that headset?

So far, they're the most comfortable headphones I've worn. I wear glasses, so I usually need to worry about how the ear cups are going to press against the arms of my glasses, but with these headphones its a non-issue. The ear cups are lamb skin wrapped over memory foam, and the top strap is breathable mesh over more memory foam.

They are also pretty darn light, at 8.11oz (230g). I don't really mind wearing them for long periods of time. They're also great for travel since they're so light, and have inline audio controls.

That's really not heavy and not light... sort of like that comfortable medium.

I like that you can remove the cable and use it in either ear.  I believe those guys let you link two headphones together.  Is that correct?

That's correct. I'm not sure how far you can chain the headphones, though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 05 June 2014, 16:47:32
Today, I got the original Beyerdynamic DT 990 (the model with the old-style headband, made until early 90's). These are the most comfortable cans I've ever used—by far; I can really wear them while not listening, which doesn't happen often otherwise. Build quality is excellent as well. Not that sure about sound signature though. I can't pinpoint anything specific, but still want to pause the music every few songs, because something feels fatiguing about it.

I'm back to AKG K240M for a while. I could listen to them all day long, but they need thicker earpads and foam inside to be actually comfortable. Or maybe go back to senns... First-world problems.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Thu, 05 June 2014, 17:17:56
I am looking into some IEMs recently, only listen to classical music. Price range $100~200 Any suggestions?
Only listen to classical music? Etymotic ER4.

How about HF5, how are they compare to ER4?

They are very comparable; not entirely on the same level in terms of clarity and detail, however they do boast the same sound signature and many people swear by them. They offer amazing isolation, especially once you get used to the triple flange tips; you can try out foam tips like Complys, but you might find it muddies up the sound a bit. One feature the HF5 lacks that I liked on my ER4 is the ability to remove and replace the cable. This was especially nice because the extremely deep insertion of the ER4 has made them rather notorious for microphonic feedback on the cable (rubbing on your shirt and such), though they do come with a shirt clip.

I opted for a softer aftermarket cable and it helped somewhat, but I've heard some say the newer versions have fixed this issue somewhat...not sure about the HF5 but I think it's much less of an issue. The ER4 comes with a couple different impedances I believe. Mine was the ER4B which really required an AMP to shine; playing it straight out my clipzip or ipod just didn't give it enough oomph. I think you'd be fine without one on the HF5.

Hope some of that helps.

Thank you very much! I bought a pair of used hf5, very eager to see what they can offer!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: anoxy on Thu, 05 June 2014, 20:04:56

Thank you very much! I bought a pair of used hf5, very eager to see what they can offer!
Awesome, don't be afraid to lodge them deep into your ear canals. Etymotic even has an instructional on proper insertion. Lots of people will say they hate them at first because they didn't get a proper seal. It will be uncomfortable at first, but you'll get used to it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Thu, 05 June 2014, 21:58:56

Thank you very much! I bought a pair of used hf5, very eager to see what they can offer!
Awesome, don't be afraid to lodge them deep into your ear canals. Etymotic even has an instructional on proper insertion. Lots of people will say they hate them at first because they didn't get a proper seal. It will be uncomfortable at first, but you'll get used to it.

How much an upgrade would you say is from HF5 to ER4? I read that ER4S and ER4P are very different in terms of sound signature.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: anoxy on Thu, 05 June 2014, 22:18:27

Thank you very much! I bought a pair of used hf5, very eager to see what they can offer!
Awesome, don't be afraid to lodge them deep into your ear canals. Etymotic even has an instructional on proper insertion. Lots of people will say they hate them at first because they didn't get a proper seal. It will be uncomfortable at first, but you'll get used to it.

How much an upgrade would you say is from HF5 to ER4? I read that ER4S and ER4P are very different in terms of sound signature.

I can't give you much advice on that because it has been a long time since I owned the ER4, and I only briefly listened to an HF5. However, planx wrote up a pretty good comparison of the two over on head-fi.org here. (http://www.head-fi.org/t/598267/review-etymotic-hf5-or-the-er-4s)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sorun on Fri, 06 June 2014, 00:58:00
Using HD 598s currently, hoping to upgrade to HD 600s or AKG k712 one of these days.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Eszett on Fri, 06 June 2014, 08:00:47
Question: best bluetooth earbuds for under 100$, recommendation anyone?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sat, 07 June 2014, 15:44:51
Nothing too fancy like you guys, but I finally got my Audio Technica ATH-AD900X! Compared to my ATH-A900X, the openness is so airy. Love it! Only other pair of open headphones I had to compare was my Koss Ksc75. Now to burn them in slowly and over time :)

Will upload photos when opportunity arises.


Please take photos and don't claim burn-in exists!  If anything it's mentally adjusting to the headphones.

Sorry it took so long but I only got back home two days ago :D As promised:

I love how you can see inside, and the chrome finish!

(http://i.imgur.com/TV4HK5d.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/G8N8yr6.jpg)



My Audio Technica family! ATH-AD900X, ATH-A900X, and ATH-M50  :cool:

(http://i.imgur.com/mlGu72y.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Sat, 07 June 2014, 15:50:32
got my 595's today, open back headphones are so different
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bexleycorona on Sat, 07 June 2014, 15:58:22
got my 595's today, open back headphones are so different

Do they feel more "airy"? Better sound stage?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: feizor on Sat, 07 June 2014, 17:04:56

Thank you very much! I bought a pair of used hf5, very eager to see what they can offer!
Awesome, don't be afraid to lodge them deep into your ear canals. Etymotic even has an instructional on proper insertion. Lots of people will say they hate them at first because they didn't get a proper seal. It will be uncomfortable at first, but you'll get used to it.

How much an upgrade would you say is from HF5 to ER4? I read that ER4S and ER4P are very different in terms of sound signature.

I can't give you much advice on that because it has been a long time since I owned the ER4, and I only briefly listened to an HF5. However, planx wrote up a pretty good comparison of the two over on head-fi.org here. (http://www.head-fi.org/t/598267/review-etymotic-hf5-or-the-er-4s)

If they come with foam ear tips, I would suggest those instead of the rubber/silicone ones. Makes a big difference.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Sat, 07 June 2014, 20:38:02
Nothing too fancy like you guys, but I finally got my Audio Technica ATH-AD900X! Compared to my ATH-A900X, the openness is so airy. Love it! Only other pair of open headphones I had to compare was my Koss Ksc75. Now to burn them in slowly and over time :)

Will upload photos when opportunity arises.


Please take photos and don't claim burn-in exists!  If anything it's mentally adjusting to the headphones.

Sorry it took so long but I only got back home two days ago :D As promised:

I love how you can see inside, and the chrome finish!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TV4HK5d.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/G8N8yr6.jpg)




My Audio Technica family! ATH-AD900X, ATH-A900X, and ATH-M50  :cool:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/mlGu72y.jpg)


My brother also has the ATH-AD900x! They are very laid-back, but exceptional on vocal representation!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sat, 07 June 2014, 21:14:04
Nothing too fancy like you guys, but I finally got my Audio Technica ATH-AD900X! Compared to my ATH-A900X, the openness is so airy. Love it! Only other pair of open headphones I had to compare was my Koss Ksc75. Now to burn them in slowly and over time :)

Will upload photos when opportunity arises.


Please take photos and don't claim burn-in exists!  If anything it's mentally adjusting to the headphones.

Sorry it took so long but I only got back home two days ago :D As promised:

I love how you can see inside, and the chrome finish!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TV4HK5d.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/G8N8yr6.jpg)




My Audio Technica family! ATH-AD900X, ATH-A900X, and ATH-M50  :cool:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/mlGu72y.jpg)


My brother also has the ATH-AD900x! They are very laid-back, but exceptional on vocal representation!


Yeah! They are definitely an easy pair to listen to!!! I like it for that very reason. However the highs can be quite intense, but that's the point and character of these, which I love because I listen to mainly female vocals! Also, the famous airnessy of these pair are loveable. Not only are they significantly lighter than my A900X's, but the ventilation makes it so much more cool and comfortable... I get very annoyed at getting sweaty inside closed pairs, and sweating on pleather. However, I don't find myself getting hot in these at all, and the fabric is so soft and dry <3
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nar on Sat, 07 June 2014, 22:53:38
I upgraded my Alessandro MS-1 to the modded MS-1000. I have to say the improvement is absolutely amazing. The sound signature has mellowed out even more from the characteristic grado and it works for practically any type of music. I've gone from Hardcore to Rock to Trance to Classical to Pop to a gentle Piano Ballard without any problem. And the soundstage is amazing, I've never heard a soundstage this big before from any headphones.

Highly recommend anyone who has one to do the mod (I've heard applying the same mod to the MS-Pro puts it on the same class as the most expensive high end headphones as well). Fundamentally it's putting a distancer on the drivers and replacing the pads with the large GS1000 pads. There's quite a few details on how to make the distancer though so I just 3D printed it with all the necessary holes and measurements.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bexleycorona on Sun, 08 June 2014, 00:14:42
I upgraded my Alessandro MS-1 to the modded MS-1000. I have to say the improvement is absolutely amazing. The sound signature has mellowed out even more from the characteristic grado and it works for practically any type of music. I've gone from Hardcore to Rock to Trance to Classical to Pop to a gentle Piano Ballard without any problem. And the soundstage is amazing, I've never heard a soundstage this big before from any headphones.

Highly recommend anyone who has one to do the mod (I've heard applying the same mod to the MS-Pro puts it on the same class as the most expensive high end headphones as well). Fundamentally it's putting a distancer on the drivers and replacing the pads with the large GS1000 pads. There's quite a few details on how to make the distancer though so I just 3D printed it with all the necessary holes and measurements.

The Alessandro MS-1s are my favorite headphones of all time.

I just really hate the Grado construction!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sun, 08 June 2014, 01:48:06
Hey guys, new to GH, but have been lurking for a while. Here is my modest audiophile set up:
Beyer Dt990 Pro with an Aune T1 with a few tubes
(https://i.imgur.com/FTaIZFq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KFca1Wx.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sun, 08 June 2014, 02:23:58
I just really hate the Grado construction!

Have you tried L-cushion or even G-cushion, and a beyerish headband wrap?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bexleycorona on Sun, 08 June 2014, 02:59:44
I just really hate the Grado construction!

Have you tried L-cushion or even G-cushion, and a beyerish headband wrap?

I don't mean the comfort. I know the comfort can be adjusted with modifications.

The problem is the construction. The rod on my MS1s came out of the cup holder randomly one day. The original headband on the lower end models is VINYL with a small metal thing underneath.

Compare the construction to a Sennheiser HD515 and you can see which one is sturdier.

I'll admit though, the sound of Grado headphones are still worth EVERY penny.

I would say other headphones are worth 60-70 sound and rest is the quality.

Grado are worth 90-95% just for the sound. Nothing beats them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sun, 08 June 2014, 03:18:38
I don't think I've ever had any issues with my SR60, other than twisted cable, where it enters the cans. That's easily solved by detacheable cable mod though. The headband is rather uncomfortable by default, but again, no problem with the cushion wrap, and then it's easy to add something to make it sturdier as well. Not sure about the rods though—my 5-year-old pair is like new and very solid in this regard.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sun, 08 June 2014, 12:14:02
I don't think I've ever had any issues with my SR60, other than twisted cable, where it enters the cans. That's easily solved by detacheable cable mod though. The headband is rather uncomfortable by default, but again, no problem with the cushion wrap, and then it's easy to add something to make it sturdier as well. Not sure about the rods though—my 5-year-old pair is like new and very solid in this regard.

I also own a pair of Grado sr60's, and have noticed a big difference after modding them a bit. There are quite a few webpages that show you how to improve the sound a bit if you are interested. They are fairly straightforward mods to do.

Here is mine, which I added some holes to the driver (Drops the treble a bit, increases the bass), added some dampening material next to the driver (helps with bass), replaced the grills (cosmetic/broke the old ones), and put a hole on the inside of the cushion. I don't use them much anymore, now that I have the DT990s, which I much prefer in almost every way.
(https://i.imgur.com/iOjMvmL.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bexleycorona on Sun, 08 June 2014, 18:08:19
I don't think I've ever had any issues with my SR60, other than twisted cable, where it enters the cans. That's easily solved by detacheable cable mod though. The headband is rather uncomfortable by default, but again, no problem with the cushion wrap, and then it's easy to add something to make it sturdier as well. Not sure about the rods though—my 5-year-old pair is like new and very solid in this regard.

Still, I'm talking about the downfalls of the product out of the box. Anything can be modified to become sturdier.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sun, 08 June 2014, 18:33:54
And the point is...? If you're trying to claim that grados are poor quality, I can't do anything but agree to disagree, because I don't see it other than the inconvenient cable. Comfort is a different story, and a matter of personal preference—for example, grados feel almost better than the ATH-AD* design (often recommended for superior comfort) on my head.

Besides, I use the cushion wrap with plenty of headphones (especially old senns), because the original cushion often disintegrates and sometimes replacements aren't available anymore.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sun, 08 June 2014, 19:06:44
a matter of personal preference—for example, grados feel almost better than the ATH-AD* design (often recommended for superior comfort) on my head.

I can definitely understand this point. The Audio Technica wing support was designed for larger and rounder head shapes (luckily I'm an Asian with a big head LOL). I can only imagine this system being loose and large on smaller and thinner heads.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sun, 08 June 2014, 19:22:15
Actually, it's okay with the fit&comfort mod (http://www.head-fi.org/t/505053/audio-technica-ath-ad700-fit-and-comfort-mod). Otherwise, I get barely any seal at the temples, but my ears still get very hot.

I'm weird though. I like tight headphones like HD 25 and I didn't mind DT770M either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sun, 08 June 2014, 19:36:20
Actually, it's okay with the fit&comfort mod (http://www.head-fi.org/t/505053/audio-technica-ath-ad700-fit-and-comfort-mod). Otherwise, I get barely any seal at the temples, but my ears still get very hot.

I'm weird though. I like tight headphones like HD 25 and I didn't mind DT770M either.

Ah true. Yeah, I can't do very tight bands because I have large ears and head so it just starts hurting all over and getting hot :P As long as I get a good seal, I prefer as loose as possible, as long as it's not moving around when I turn my head.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: linziyi on Sun, 08 June 2014, 22:06:12
Hmm.... I think the AD900x is very very confortable as it is. One thing I don't like is the two "bands" that goes on top of your head is a bit too loose, feels like the headphone is always dropping down.

It's my only pair of open headphones. While having a decent sound stage (after heaing the HD800 and the SR900 in a meet my standard is sky-high), the sound signature is a bit too "lazy" or "laid-back" for me, a bit muddy in the mids and bass... Vocal is amazing but "mechanical" sound effects like swords clashing or bullet hitting walls is not so great. I think it is regarded as one of the best phones for classical music, but personally I am more clined towards a very, very detailed sound.

Expecting a Etymotic HF5 IEM in the following week, it is praised for its isolation and detailed sound, can't wait to try it!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Broduce on Sun, 08 June 2014, 22:12:24
I've recently moved to CIEMs on the go, and high end speakers for the desk. I think I'm going to sell all my headphones, never really liked wearing them anyway. HD-650, HD800, HE-500, and some Mad Dogs. They were nice while they lasted, but speakers are just so much more convenient and my head doesn't get hot in this summer heat. And when it's cold, I can wear my hood :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sun, 08 June 2014, 22:48:06
I've recently moved to CIEMs on the go, and high end speakers for the desk. I think I'm going to sell all my headphones, never really liked wearing them anyway. HD-650, HD800, HE-500, and some Mad Dogs. They were nice while they lasted, but speakers are just so much more convenient and my head doesn't get hot in this summer heat. And when it's cold, I can wear my hood :)

I use my speakers a lot when I am home alone, but with a lot of people around the place I prefer my headphones so everyone doesn't have to hear what I am blasting.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Broduce on Sun, 08 June 2014, 22:56:42
Yeah for sure. I prefer to live alone, currently in a small studio, but if I lived with others I would use headphones.

Can't beat the presentation and feeling of speakers though...truly fantastic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Tue, 10 June 2014, 11:54:29
a matter of personal preference—for example, grados feel almost better than the ATH-AD* design (often recommended for superior comfort) on my head.

I can definitely understand this point. The Audio Technica wing support was designed for larger and rounder head shapes (luckily I'm an Asian with a big head LOL). I can only imagine this system being loose and large on smaller and thinner heads.

My sr-60s are a ****ton more comfortable than my akg 701s, my scalp has literally molded to the shape of the headband.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sun, 15 June 2014, 02:02:57
(http://i.imgur.com/0lZ3xtt.jpg)


a matter of personal preference—for example, grados feel almost better than the ATH-AD* design (often recommended for superior comfort) on my head.

I can definitely understand this point. The Audio Technica wing support was designed for larger and rounder head shapes (luckily I'm an Asian with a big head LOL). I can only imagine this system being loose and large on smaller and thinner heads.

My sr-60s are a ****ton more comfortable than my akg 701s, my scalp has literally molded to the shape of the headband.

Aren't the AKG 702's infamous for discomfort? I heard the bumps cause pain after time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 24 June 2014, 09:07:52
The new Akg K712 and the K702 65th anniversary do not have the headband bumps.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smasher816 on Tue, 24 June 2014, 15:55:38
I hope you don't mind someone asking for suggestions. It's pretty difficult to do a search since it seems like such a subjective area.

Anyways, I'm considering purchasing some new headphones to go with my recently purchased Schiit Magni/Modi. I primarily listen to EDM but listen to other genres. Female vocals are also nice from time to time. Comfort is also very important. Any suggestions?

Edit: I don't want open headphones. I'll be in a dorm and don't want to bother others or let them hear what I am listening too :P I guess it might be ok if they are not too "open". Also I don't think I want to go for ear buds / IEM's - just normal over ear headphones. They will just be used at my computer so they don't need to be extra portable or anything.

Preferable price range is around $100, but a little pricier is alright.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 24 June 2014, 15:59:19
I hope you don't mind someone asking for suggestions. It's pretty difficult to do a search since it seems like such a subjective area.

Anyways, I'm considering purchasing some new headphones to go with my recently purchased Schiit Magni/Modi. I primarily listen to EDM but listen to other genres. Female vocals are also nice from time to time. Comfort is also very important. Any suggestions?

Price range?

I like the k712 pros I finally settled on for over-ear listening, but so far, my favorites have been my CIEMs and LCD-2s.  the hifiman he-400/500s are good and if you can still find them, should be a great economic get for what they do.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Tue, 24 June 2014, 16:09:50
I hope you don't mind someone asking for suggestions. It's pretty difficult to do a search since it seems like such a subjective area.

Anyways, I'm considering purchasing some new headphones to go with my recently purchased Schiit Magni/Modi. I primarily listen to EDM but listen to other genres. Female vocals are also nice from time to time. Comfort is also very important. Any suggestions?

I got my DT990s for $140 off of Amazon, and I love them. Super comfortable (velour pads), and sound amazing! I primarily listen to edm, and other electronic music and they are great. We need the price range, and are you wanting to use them only on your computer or outside too?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smasher816 on Tue, 24 June 2014, 16:17:02
I edited my post. Hope that helps.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Tue, 24 June 2014, 16:23:19
A modi/magni is a bit of a waste if you are only wanting to spend around $100. I would save up a bit more if you can.. It would have been a bit better to spend $300 on headphones instead most likely. The reason being, most cheaper headphones are easier to run, so you likely don't need an Amp, and a DAC makes a very minor difference, so I would put this at the end of the spectrum of things to buy that make a difference. (Headphones > Amp > Music Quality > DAC)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smasher816 on Tue, 24 June 2014, 17:22:01
That is a fair point. I will say that getting a DAC+amp removed the annoying audio issues my soundcard and onboard had.

I do have a bit of spare cash so 300 is doable. I'm open to suggestions if you really think they are worth it :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Tue, 24 June 2014, 19:24:02
That is a fair point. I will say that getting a DAC+amp removed the annoying audio issues my soundcard and onboard had.

I do have a bit of spare cash so 300 is doable. I'm open to suggestions if you really think they are worth it :)

Beyerdynamic Dt770s, MrSpeakers MadDogs, are a few. I am drawing a bit of a blank unfortunately.  Check out, and post in the weekly buying advice thread. Just post all of your info that you can think of, and they will help you out. :) http://www.reddit.com/r/headphones (http://www.reddit.com/r/headphones)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smasher816 on Tue, 24 June 2014, 20:57:27
That is a fair point. I will say that getting a DAC+amp removed the annoying audio issues my soundcard and onboard had.

I do have a bit of spare cash so 300 is doable. I'm open to suggestions if you really think they are worth it :)

Beyerdynamic Dt770s, MrSpeakers MadDogs, are a few. I am drawing a bit of a blank unfortunately.  Check out, and post in the weekly buying advice thread. Just post all of your info that you can think of, and they will help you out. :) http://www.reddit.com/r/headphones (http://www.reddit.com/r/headphones)

Thanks for the advice byker. :thumb:

The Beyerdynamic's look great. I saw some people post pictures of them and thought they looked super comfy but assumed they were only open eared. I think I might have to get those if I don't find anything else. I'll be sure to check out the subreddit.

Quick question: Am I correct in saying that the higher ohm versions will allow me to use more of the amp's volume knob? I believe they require more power to get the same volume and that is why they are difficult to drive from phones and other portable devices. Right now my 45Ohm headphones get really loud really quick. So I use fine turning.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Tue, 24 June 2014, 23:03:02
That is a fair point. I will say that getting a DAC+amp removed the annoying audio issues my soundcard and onboard had.

I do have a bit of spare cash so 300 is doable. I'm open to suggestions if you really think they are worth it :)

Beyerdynamic Dt770s, MrSpeakers MadDogs, are a few. I am drawing a bit of a blank unfortunately.  Check out, and post in the weekly buying advice thread. Just post all of your info that you can think of, and they will help you out. :) http://www.reddit.com/r/headphones (http://www.reddit.com/r/headphones)

Thanks for the advice byker. :thumb:

The Beyerdynamic's look great. I saw some people post pictures of them and thought they looked super comfy but assumed they were only open eared. I think I might have to get those if I don't find anything else. I'll be sure to check out the subreddit.

Quick question: Am I correct in saying that the higher ohm versions will allow me to use more of the amp's volume knob? I believe they require more power to get the same volume and that is why they are difficult to drive from phones and other portable devices. Right now my 45Ohm headphones get really loud really quick. So I use fine turning.

Yeah no problem, I am not super knowledgeable, but I did do some research before buying my own setup, and still follow that subreddit. The DT770s are closed, the 880s are partially open, and the 990s are fully open! Yes your amp provides more power, so high ampage headphones will require a better amp. The 80Ohm DTs can run fine on your phone, etc, but the 250 and 600 will require a bit more of an amp. I have the 250ohm DT990s, and they do run straight from my phone/comp, but are very quiet and do sound a lot better with my Aune T1.

I would look around a bit more before you settle with the DT770s, but from the look of them you cannot go wrong. I am thinking about getting a pair for around town..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Signature on Wed, 25 June 2014, 17:09:33
Ehm I´m buying headphones and what do you think is the best pair of headphones for 200$ish?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 25 June 2014, 17:39:55
It depends... (open/closed? expected use? source? ...?) Go to a hifi store and give various cans a listen. In the end, it's all about personal preference.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Pacifist on Thu, 26 June 2014, 12:01:34
Open headphones are amazing. Sounds sound so real and its screwing with my head a lot
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Thu, 26 June 2014, 12:07:15
Open headphones are amazing. Sounds sound so real and its screwing with my head a lot

Yeah, crazy how it feels like sound fills the room.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Thu, 26 June 2014, 14:55:16
I think it happens with any decent headphone, I haven't tried any good open headphones yet but even my dt770s freak me the f out sometimes with how real stuff sounds. I think dead space 1, at night, in a dark room with these headphones on would make me want to cry.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smasher816 on Thu, 26 June 2014, 18:34:25
I ended up choosing the Beyer dt770's because they are considered decent sounding cans, with a very comfortable and sturdy design. These things just arrived today and I have to say, hot d*mn these things have a lot more bass then my old headphones (maybe even a little too much at times). They do live up to there expectations in comfort, and are very isolating. From the few songs I have played so far I am really enjoying the sound. Everything is so quiet when I pause the music...

Edit: I might also mod these things to have a detachable cable later. We will see. It will be nice to have replaceable straps, pads, and cables, then the only real point of failure is the driver itself. I hope these things will last me for a very long time (Unless I end up upgrading later).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Thu, 26 June 2014, 20:28:53
I think it happens with any decent headphone, I haven't tried any good open headphones yet but even my dt770s freak me the f out sometimes with how real stuff sounds. I think dead space 1, at night, in a dark room with these headphones on would make me want to cry.
Lol I just installed and started up Dead Space again last night (first played but never finished on Xbox) and even with my Sennheiser HD280s it was freaking me out.... I'm real curious how the open AKG Q701s will sound as I've never had open headphones before and I read they have really great soundstage - but knowing Massdrop I'll be waiting a while to find out  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 27 June 2014, 00:50:59
I ended up choosing the Beyer dt770's because they are considered decent sounding cans, with a very comfortable and sturdy design. These things just arrived today and I have to say, hot d*mn these things have a lot more bass then my old headphones (maybe even a little too much at times). They do live up to there expectations in comfort, and are very isolating. From the few songs I have played so far I am really enjoying the sound. Everything is so quiet when I pause the music...

Edit: I might also mod these things to have a detachable cable later. We will see. It will be nice to have replaceable straps, pads, and cables, then the only real point of failure is the driver itself. I hope these things will last me for a very long time (Unless I end up upgrading later).
Nice good to hear. :) Yeah that is my only complaint with my beyers, I may end up doing a detachable cable mod later too!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Fri, 27 June 2014, 01:01:35
The
I ended up choosing the Beyer dt770's because they are considered decent sounding cans, with a very comfortable and sturdy design. These things just arrived today and I have to say, hot d*mn these things have a lot more bass then my old headphones (maybe even a little too much at times). They do live up to there expectations in comfort, and are very isolating. From the few songs I have played so far I am really enjoying the sound. Everything is so quiet when I pause the music...

Edit: I might also mod these things to have a detachable cable later. We will see. It will be nice to have replaceable straps, pads, and cables, then the only real point of failure is the driver itself. I hope these things will last me for a very long time (Unless I end up upgrading later).

Congrats! Yes, I wish the cable was detatchable but it is not a problem for me(I have two).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Fri, 27 June 2014, 05:08:08
I think it happens with any decent headphone, I haven't tried any good open headphones yet but even my dt770s freak me the f out sometimes with how real stuff sounds. I think dead space 1, at night, in a dark room with these headphones on would make me want to cry.

When I first got my Lyr and LCD 2's I thought it would be a good idea to play Amnesia: The Dark Descent with my headphones up, the lights off, and on a belly full of mushrooms.

I must admit, it was the greatest gaming experience of my entire life. I played for more than 9 straight hours, terrified, sweating bullets, absolutely gripped to the screen so intensely I cracked the casing of my mouse with the palm of my clammy hands. Certainly a big part of it was the shrooms, but having a pair of amazing headphones and a fantastic amp to make them sing elevated what was an already an incredibly intimate experience into pure gaming absolution. Wouldn't trade that night for all the cookies in the cookie aisle. :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smasher816 on Fri, 27 June 2014, 08:25:13
Nice good to hear. :) Yeah that is my only complaint with my beyers, I may end up doing a detachable cable mod later too!

You just need a female 3.5mm jack, some wire and soldering skills, and some cajones to open up your expensive headphones. There are a few threads/websites that talk about the process.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 27 June 2014, 09:58:16
Nice good to hear. :) Yeah that is my only complaint with my beyers, I may end up doing a detachable cable mod later too!

You just need a female 3.5mm jack, some wire and soldering skills, and some cajones to open up your expensive headphones. There are a few threads/websites that talk about the process.

Yeah I know how simple it is, but I don't want to ruin them! Haha
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 27 June 2014, 13:42:10
Nice good to hear. :) Yeah that is my only complaint with my beyers, I may end up doing a detachable cable mod later too!

You just need a female 3.5mm jack, some wire and soldering skills, and some cajones to open up your expensive headphones. There are a few threads/websites that talk about the process.

Yeah I know how simple it is, but I don't want to ruin them! Haha

The biggest concern with the 770s is finding either a jack that covers the rectangle left by the stress relief piece or using something to seal that hole left behind when you move the jack to a different spot. 

I used a bit of black 2 part urethane that matched the shell color nicely, but you could theoretically use like black hot glue, too.

Or you could send it to someone that can mod them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: luisbg on Fri, 27 June 2014, 14:06:37
I might not have a lot of people join me on this but I am very happy with my Monster Inspiration (active noise cancelation). The sound is good, the bass is strong, and it helps a lot to focus during flights and in the office.

(http://www.technologytell.com/gadgets/files/2012/01/Monster-Inspiration-headphones.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Smasher816 on Fri, 27 June 2014, 15:35:32
I have to say, my 770's have some seriously great isolation. The whole room gets much quieter when I put them on. I can barely here anything people say - especially if I have music playing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Willyc277 on Fri, 27 June 2014, 20:40:39
Anyone have any advice on headphone stands for AKG K702s? The headband design is a bit different than most.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 27 June 2014, 21:28:28
Nice good to hear. :) Yeah that is my only complaint with my beyers, I may end up doing a detachable cable mod later too!

You just need a female 3.5mm jack, some wire and soldering skills, and some cajones to open up your expensive headphones. There are a few threads/websites that talk about the process.

Yeah I know how simple it is, but I don't want to ruin them! Haha

The biggest concern with the 770s is finding either a jack that covers the rectangle left by the stress relief piece or using something to seal that hole left behind when you move the jack to a different spot. 

I used a bit of black 2 part urethane that matched the shell color nicely, but you could theoretically use like black hot glue, too.

Or you could send it to someone that can mod them.

I have the 990s, would that information still be useful? I assume they are very similar in design.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 28 June 2014, 20:12:52
Nice good to hear. :) Yeah that is my only complaint with my beyers, I may end up doing a detachable cable mod later too!

You just need a female 3.5mm jack, some wire and soldering skills, and some cajones to open up your expensive headphones. There are a few threads/websites that talk about the process.

Yeah I know how simple it is, but I don't want to ruin them! Haha

The biggest concern with the 770s is finding either a jack that covers the rectangle left by the stress relief piece or using something to seal that hole left behind when you move the jack to a different spot. 

I used a bit of black 2 part urethane that matched the shell color nicely, but you could theoretically use like black hot glue, too.

Or you could send it to someone that can mod them.

I have the 990s, would that information still be useful? I assume they are very similar in design.

The 990s have a similar technique needed, yes. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: naasfu on Sun, 29 June 2014, 14:32:10
fyi, I just saw that the Beyerdynamic DT770 80 Ohm headphones are on Massdrop for $199.99, down to $169.99 if 30 are purchased.  For some reason it is a short duration drop and has only one day left.

I've been needing a closed pair of headphones for work, and from reading comments here and elsewhere, these look like a good set in terms of comfort and sound.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt770?mode=guest_open

edit:  fixed link

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Sun, 29 June 2014, 17:11:33
fyi, I just saw that the Beyerdynamic DT770 80 Ohm headphones are on Massdrop for $199.99, down to $169.99 if 30 are purchased.  For some reason it is a short duration drop and has only one day left.

I've been needing a closed pair of headphones for work, and from reading comments here and elsewhere, these look like a good set in terms of comfort and sound.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt770

Go on! Just buy them. They are really good.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: naasfu on Sun, 29 June 2014, 21:50:45
fyi, I just saw that the Beyerdynamic DT770 80 Ohm headphones are on Massdrop for $199.99, down to $169.99 if 30 are purchased.  For some reason it is a short duration drop and has only one day left.

I've been needing a closed pair of headphones for work, and from reading comments here and elsewhere, these look like a good set in terms of comfort and sound.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt770

Go on! Just buy them. They are really good.

Thanks man for confirming!  I joined up, but there are still not enough people.  Too bad no one apparently knew about this short drop until a day before it ends.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 30 June 2014, 00:13:31
fyi, I just saw that the Beyerdynamic DT770 80 Ohm headphones are on Massdrop for $199.99, down to $169.99 if 30 are purchased.  For some reason it is a short duration drop and has only one day left.

I've been needing a closed pair of headphones for work, and from reading comments here and elsewhere, these look like a good set in terms of comfort and sound.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt770

Go on! Just buy them. They are really good.

Thanks man for confirming!  I joined up, but there are still not enough people.  Too bad no one apparently knew about this short drop until a day before it ends.

Yeah I only saw them now. I am really tempted as I love my 990s, and would love a pair to use on the bus, library, work, school.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: naasfu on Mon, 30 June 2014, 02:18:26
fyi, I just saw that the Beyerdynamic DT770 80 Ohm headphones are on Massdrop for $199.99, down to $169.99 if 30 are purchased.  For some reason it is a short duration drop and has only one day left.

I've been needing a closed pair of headphones for work, and from reading comments here and elsewhere, these look like a good set in terms of comfort and sound.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt770

Go on! Just buy them. They are really good.

Thanks man for confirming!  I joined up, but there are still not enough people.  Too bad no one apparently knew about this short drop until a day before it ends.

Yeah I only saw them now. I am really tempted as I love my 990s, and would love a pair to use on the bus, library, work, school.

I don't know if Massdrop does extensions, but I just emailed support asking for one since this drop was not publicized via their email announcements besides the "one day left" announcement.

Also, here's a link for the drop that doesn't require login to view:
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt770?mode=guest_open
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 30 June 2014, 02:26:15
fyi, I just saw that the Beyerdynamic DT770 80 Ohm headphones are on Massdrop for $199.99, down to $169.99 if 30 are purchased.  For some reason it is a short duration drop and has only one day left.

I've been needing a closed pair of headphones for work, and from reading comments here and elsewhere, these look like a good set in terms of comfort and sound.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt770

Go on! Just buy them. They are really good.

Thanks man for confirming!  I joined up, but there are still not enough people.  Too bad no one apparently knew about this short drop until a day before it ends.

Yeah I only saw them now. I am really tempted as I love my 990s, and would love a pair to use on the bus, library, work, school.

I don't know if Massdrop does extensions, but I just emailed support asking for one since this drop was not publicized via their email announcements besides the "one day left" announcement.

Also, here's a link for the drop that doesn't require login to view:
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/beyerdynamic-dt770?mode=guest_open

Haha, I am the guy you replied too :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: combataran on Fri, 04 July 2014, 19:16:10
Someone near my is selling a pair of Alessandro MS2s bundled with an Ordnance .25 DAC/Amp for $215, case, cables and everything. Didn't say how old the unit was though, but I'm assuming a year as the worst case scenario. Should I pull the trigger, or is there something else out there that's more bang for my buck at that price point?

I've been thinking of getting an sr80i or 125i lately, but with local markups those just aren't viable.

Edit: Missed the date, it's from 2012.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Kiwi_321 on Sun, 06 July 2014, 21:04:28
I must say, I picked up a pair of Bose Quietcomfort 20i's. They are very impressive noise cancelling *ear*phones. Very effective - and pretty comfortable!

I need to stop wearing them around the house though. My flatmates keep scaring the **** out of me
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: olivil on Wed, 09 July 2014, 08:57:06
I bought a Schiit Audio Magni & Modi stack and a pair of HiFiMan HE-400. I already received the Schiit stuff but I'm still waiting on my headphones.

For the moment I'm using the DAC/Amp with my pair of Sennheiser HD280-PRO, it's (not surprisingly) better than on-board audio (Realtek ALC1150).

Will post when I receive my HE-400.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TLSC.wipeOut on Wed, 09 July 2014, 17:25:34
Are the Aune T1 MK2 Headphone amps any good?? It's currently up on Massdrop and I'm considering it as a possible option?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 10 July 2014, 00:40:47
Are the Aune T1 MK2 Headphone amps any good?? It's currently up on Massdrop and I'm considering it as a possible option?

I have the MK1 and it does the job for me.. I have a pair of dt990 pros (250ohms), that it drives pretty nicely.. Be aware it isn't a true Tube Dac though, as it doesn't use enough power. What are you using as headphones?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Thu, 10 July 2014, 14:17:35
I am using the schiit stack... modi optical dac + magni amp
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: olivil on Thu, 10 July 2014, 17:16:56
I can honestly only recommend the Magni+Modi stack, for the price the build and sound quality is amazing.  :) My biggest complaint is the lack of variable gain on the Magni, but on a 99$ headphone amp I get why.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Laiin on Fri, 11 July 2014, 01:08:42
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41QfgEbza9L.jpg)
(http://www.musik-produktiv.de/pic-100051872l/akg-k-271-mkii.jpg)
Currently i only use the brainwavz since my AKG's desperately need an amp.
Plugged into onboard sound card since im broke  :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Sun, 13 July 2014, 03:54:39
I can honestly only recommend the Magni+Modi stack, for the price the build and sound quality is amazing.  :) My biggest complaint is the lveack of variable gain on the Magni, but on a 99$ headphone amp I get why.

The Asgard 2 has a variable gain switch but that's 2.5 times more expensive. We can hope for a magni v2 with gain switch but I do not think it will happen.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Protato_Tubby on Tue, 15 July 2014, 16:09:50
I have a pair of Koss PortaPro in the post! They should arrive tomorrow! (http://geekhack.org/Smileys/solosmileys/cheesy.gif)
I have quite a lot of hair on my head so I'm a little bit worried about getting my hair caught in the headband but other wise I think I'll be fine - Plus I could just get a shorter haircut for £7.

Pic related - it's my hair and myself.[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Coff_man on Tue, 15 July 2014, 16:12:52
I have a set of ATH m50s that I use when I am on just on the PC.
I also have the Kingston HyperX headset that I use to game and to take to people.
I have a used Soundblaster Z because I needed something because onboard died.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nukec on Wed, 16 July 2014, 12:41:06
I am using Razer Hammer Head for office, at home I just use speakers from Asus PB278Q.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Protato_Tubby on Wed, 16 July 2014, 16:54:32
My Koss Porta Pro have arrived! :D
They sound really nice - much better than I expected. My ones go as low as 19Hz and with the highnotes I can't really test them because my hearing is damaged from playing the Tuba.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 18 July 2014, 01:21:56
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5579/14634125606_96396e924f_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oiaHGs)IMG_1906.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oiaHGs) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

Modded to balanced connection, metal pieces powder coated, earpads replaced.  Sounds good, might be my second ranked set currently.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 18 July 2014, 01:22:18
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5579/14634125606_96396e924f_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oiaHGs)IMG_1906.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oiaHGs) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

Modded to balanced connection, metal pieces powder coated, earpads replaced.  Sounds good, might be my second ranked set currently.
fuuuuuuck
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Fri, 18 July 2014, 01:49:46
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5579/14634125606_96396e924f_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oiaHGs)IMG_1906.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oiaHGs) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

Modded to balanced connection, metal pieces powder coated, earpads replaced.  Sounds good, might be my second ranked set currently.

Sweet!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Fri, 18 July 2014, 10:20:35
With the Beyer DTs, earpads have a massive impact on how they sound. I tried the faux leather ones on a DT880 Pro and they muffled the sound to ****. If you take the pads off and look on the inside, the velour ones will have holes cut into the fabric (letting treble through) while the black ones appear to be solid.

Just a warning for anyone looking to experiment - don't crossbreed Beyer pads and headphones.

Also, Koss Porta Pro's are pretty great sounding. Just handle them with care. Mine came apart often and developed a loose connection after a year and a half. Lifetime warranty doesn't apply if you buy them off Amazon in Europe, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: damorgue on Wed, 23 July 2014, 04:44:18
My old Sennheisers are giving up. Unfortunately, they only sell replacement pads for a select few model and not mine. I am looking for a new pair. I will also be getting rid of my 02+ODAC as the constant driver issues audio stack malfunctions in windows are driving me insane. I will probably be going back to my Essence STX card for now.

Features I'd like in a pair of headphones:

-Replaceable standard cable, ie a cable which can be detached at the headphone end with a non-proprietary plug. (This is nifty as it allows me to use the same headphones for voip when I need them to, by easily attaching a mic. There are many examples of people attaching mics to their headphones. I just attach my mic to a very small 3.5mm to 3.5mm adapter and put it that adapter where the cable meets the headphone.)

-Replaceable pads, makes them last so much longer.

-Circumaural, personal preference.

Any recommendations? I am looking for something in the $100-150 range.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Wed, 23 July 2014, 14:54:25
Beyerdynamic custom one pro(my experience):

Very comfortable
Replaceable cable(3,5 mm jack)
Replaceable pads
mic as optional accessory.
Easy to power at 16 ohm
Solid build quality

http://europe.beyerdynamic.com/custom/ (http://europe.beyerdynamic.com/custom/)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Acknown3 on Wed, 23 July 2014, 15:01:06
Got an Asgard 2 and Modi while I wait for the HE-400i to release.

Previously had the HD600 and HE-400 but I sold them in anticipation, and for various other reasons. HE-400 was too uncomfortable despite how much I loved the sound, and the HD600 had a really small soundstage compared to the HE-400.

Currently using some DIY cabled Yuin PK2 and PK3 earbuds.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vun on Wed, 23 July 2014, 15:02:22
Beyerdynamic custom one pro(my experience):

Very comfortable
Replaceable cable(3,5 mm jack)
Replaceable pads
mic as optional accessory.
Easy to power at 16 ohm
Solid build quality

http://europe.beyerdynamic.com/custom/ (http://europe.beyerdynamic.com/custom/)

One thing to note is that while the pads are replaceable, they are quite pricey, at least the velour ones. But yeah, I've got a pair of COPs and they are quite nice, I'm very happy with them considering that I got them at 40% off.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: awong on Wed, 23 July 2014, 15:06:04
Is fiio E10K good? http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Thu, 24 July 2014, 05:41:10
Is fiio E10K good? http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2

I have tested previous fiio products and they where okay. Since it is not a very powerful amplifier (well its battery driven and 200mW at 32 ohm) it okay to be aware of how many ohms your headphones are. I have not tested this sepific model so thats up to someone else to tell about their experiences with this products. Guess you do not have a local store where you can test this product?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 24 July 2014, 13:52:01
Is fiio E10K good? http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2

It's alright, but for my money, I'd say look for a used e17 or pick up an e07k http://www.amazon.com/Fiio-E07K-Portable-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B00A9LHLQ6/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1406227805&sr=1-3&keywords=e17
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Mon, 28 July 2014, 23:45:27
Just bought a beyerdynamic T1! Amazing headphones!
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2w8NNU2dLGM/T3cPUotmX7I/AAAAAAAAAHw/hcBXStxh-AI/s640/Beyerdynamic+T1.jpg)
Will take some pictures when I get home.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Protato_Tubby on Fri, 01 August 2014, 15:38:58
My Ghetto Headset
Ingredients:
Koss PortaPro
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B005I497OI (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B005I497OI)

Novatech 3.5mm Microphone
http://goo.gl/UeNe4C (http://goo.gl/UeNe4C)

1 Ziptie
I just had a few lying around, but I'll still give a link
http://goo.gl/3JyFTC (http://goo.gl/3JyFTC)

(http://i.imgur.com/BYkTlDp.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/dQ3mVmp.jpg)
It's cheap, sounds alright and works very well.
If I had more money - I'd have gone for a ATH M50x + ModMic 4.0 but this works surprisingly well
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheMark on Fri, 01 August 2014, 19:49:48
I can't look at this thread. I came to this forum to detox from my head-if.org addiction.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Sat, 02 August 2014, 01:07:11
My old Sennheisers are giving up. Unfortunately, they only sell replacement pads for a select few model and not mine. I am looking for a new pair. I will also be getting rid of my 02+ODAC as the constant driver issues audio stack malfunctions in windows are driving me insane. I will probably be going back to my Essence STX card for now.

Features I'd like in a pair of headphones:

-Replaceable standard cable, ie a cable which can be detached at the headphone end with a non-proprietary plug. (This is nifty as it allows me to use the same headphones for voip when I need them to, by easily attaching a mic. There are many examples of people attaching mics to their headphones. I just attach my mic to a very small 3.5mm to 3.5mm adapter and put it that adapter where the cable meets the headphone.)

-Replaceable pads, makes them last so much longer.

-Circumaural, personal preference.

Any recommendations? I am looking for something in the $100-150 range.

Spend a little more and get some used HD600s.  Mine actually went up in value by $80 since I got them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: feizor on Sat, 02 August 2014, 07:24:38
Just bought a beyerdynamic T1! Amazing headphones!
Show Image
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2w8NNU2dLGM/T3cPUotmX7I/AAAAAAAAAHw/hcBXStxh-AI/s640/Beyerdynamic+T1.jpg)

Will take some pictures when I get home.


Dude for the price they better be amazing! haha

I just received my Q701 from Massdrop. Sounds pretty good out of the box with my Aune T1. I must have an unusual head shape because I'm not bothered at all by the headband bumps.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ShawnMeg on Sat, 02 August 2014, 09:51:11
I'm thrifty and don't have audiophile discriminating hearing.  I bought some decently nice headphones from the local Big Lots for $10 which I use with my Sony Bluetooth SBH-52.  As I listen to only mp3's, radio podcasts, streaming radio, or FM radio on my Lumia smart phone, an expensive super high quality headphone wouldn't be worth it with the relatively low quality audio source.

One day, if I have enough initiative to setup a high quality home audio system with vacuum tube amps and listen to some high quality CD recordings, I may splurge on some headphones that are better quality.  I won't get Beats!

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 02 August 2014, 19:04:28
Got these cheap yesterday:

(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3845/14824681763_b5c21a2ad2_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oA1npr)IMG_1924.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oA1npr) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

Parts are already ordered to repair, going to get the leather headband replaced with something topgrain, alpha pads and probably some nice black/white ebony wood cups, too.  Got some grados that I'm planning similar mods to, save ps earpads vs alphas.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: evolveS on Wed, 06 August 2014, 15:10:31
After a lot of waiting, I picked up a secondhand Sennheiser HD25-1 II.

They're very analytical (which I adore) and more revealing of source than the ATH-M50 or SR60i. They're also more comfortable that I'd expected.
I'm looking forward to swapping out the steel cable for a copper one to see if that will help tighten up the lower end.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 06 August 2014, 16:12:18
After a lot of waiting, I picked up a secondhand Sennheiser HD25-1 II.

They're very analytical (which I adore) and more revealing of source than the ATH-M50 or SR60i. They're also more comfortable that I'd expected.
I'm looking forward to swapping out the steel cable for a copper one to see if that will help tighten up the lower end.

the fact that they use steel cables is horrific.  Probably copper plated
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: evolveS on Wed, 06 August 2014, 16:25:00
After a lot of waiting, I picked up a secondhand Sennheiser HD25-1 II.

They're very analytical (which I adore) and more revealing of source than the ATH-M50 or SR60i. They're also more comfortable that I'd expected.
I'm looking forward to swapping out the steel cable for a copper one to see if that will help tighten up the lower end.

the fact that they use steel cables is horrific.  Probably copper plated

I'm pretty sure Sennheiser did this on other mid and upper-tier products of theirs, not cool at all. At least aftermarket cables are readily available and easy to install.

Another thing that surprised me was that the HD25s still have microphonics issues. They 'solved' this in the HD26, but I honestly didn't think this product line's design could get even less elegant..

[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LONGZILLA on Wed, 06 August 2014, 16:25:24
Got these cheap yesterday:

(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3845/14824681763_b5c21a2ad2_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oA1npr)IMG_1924.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oA1npr) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

Parts are already ordered to repair, going to get the leather headband replaced with something topgrain, alpha pads and probably some nice black/white ebony wood cups, too.  Got some grados that I'm planning similar mods to, save ps earpads vs alphas.

Looks like a very involved project tjcaustin, should be fun. Are you going to keep a log of your progress by chance?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 06 August 2014, 16:38:26
Got these cheap yesterday:

(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3845/14824681763_b5c21a2ad2_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oA1npr)IMG_1924.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oA1npr) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

Parts are already ordered to repair, going to get the leather headband replaced with something topgrain, alpha pads and probably some nice black/white ebony wood cups, too.  Got some grados that I'm planning similar mods to, save ps earpads vs alphas.

Looks like a very involved project tjcaustin, should be fun. Are you going to keep a log of your progress by chance?

Yeah, I'll post pics as things come in.  Right now, I'm using the trashed stuff with the denons and just have a couple zip ties securing it while I wait for parts of all sorts.

I scored a pair of alpha pads for stupid cheap yesterday, so just need to have the dude at martin custom get back in touch about cup pricing before I get bored and buy lawton instead.

I wrapped my grado headband in leather with a felt padding, but I'm really not happy with how it looks.  I'll probably post a pic at some point of how it looks right now though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Grim Fandango on Wed, 06 August 2014, 16:41:03
I have not tried a ton of headphones, and I have not tried the very expensive ones (things get even more expensive than keyboards), but I have tried a decent amount over the years.

When it comes to bang for buck, and affordable performance my choices are:
-AKG K550 for a closed headphone. Manages to have a good soundstage and has a very "open headphone sound", not quite as boxed in, if that makes any sense. Like them better than some much more expensive closed headphones that I tried.
More
(http://www.head-fi.org/image/id/2773675)

-Audiotechnica ad700 for an open headphone. This headphone lack a bit of oomph (sorry for the lack of technical terms) but gives a very nice representation of depth and location of sound.
More
(http://www.stereo2000.it/fotoprodotti/image455.jpg)

If you have a small budget, I found the Sennheiser HD 518 pretty great value for money.

One headphone that I do not use anymore, but that has literally lasted me over a DECADE is the Sony MDR-V6. You can still buy it, and I think they did not even change the design. If good sound but most of all durability is what you are after, then I can vouch for these. The only thing you might want to replace after 5 years or so are the earcups (they are sold separately).
More
(http://kenrockwell.com/audio/sony/images/mdr-v6/D3S_8255-1200.jpg)

Though there are quite a few brands that I have been hearing great things about, that I have not had the opportunity to try.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 06 August 2014, 16:50:01
The k550 is probably a top 5 headphone for me.  Classic look, good comfort, great sound.  Punches way above the price tag.  I wish I had kept them instead of getting the k545 (to be fair, the 545 sound a bit better to my ear), but the d2000 that I have are a great sidegrade to the 550s. 

I haven't personally used the mdr-v6, but they're pretty great as well.  I know a lot of studios use those in different parts of the recording process.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 06 August 2014, 17:14:34
After a lot of waiting, I picked up a secondhand Sennheiser HD25-1 II.

They're very analytical (which I adore) and more revealing of source than the ATH-M50 or SR60i. They're also more comfortable that I'd expected.
I'm looking forward to swapping out the steel cable for a copper one to see if that will help tighten up the lower end.

the fact that they use steel cables is horrific.  Probably copper plated

I'm pretty sure Sennheiser did this on other mid and upper-tier products of theirs, not cool at all. At least aftermarket cables are readily available and easy to install.

Another thing that surprised me was that the HD25s still have microphonics issues. They 'solved' this in the HD26, but I honestly didn't think this product line's design could get even less elegant..
Never noticed that, and I go running with mine... although I have the 600- Ohm version, recabled as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Protato_Tubby on Wed, 06 August 2014, 18:30:55
https://soundcloud.com/greg-tubby/ghetto-headset-microphone-test (https://soundcloud.com/greg-tubby/ghetto-headset-microphone-test)
This is the sound quality of the Mic on the  DIY Headset that I built.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Wed, 06 August 2014, 18:45:24
I love my ad700's for csgo :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cbot on Thu, 07 August 2014, 00:52:50
I love my ad700's for csgo :)

How big are your ears and how comfortable are they?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Thu, 07 August 2014, 11:50:04
my ears are not huge and it fits pretty well. I did need to bend the top to make it fit as I do not have a huge head.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Thu, 07 August 2014, 13:00:27
Hey Guys!
I'm sorry if this topic has already been discussed in this thread, but I was recently given a pair of Beyerdynamic DT 990 600 Ohm headphones by a relative of mine as a birthday gift, unfortunately I don't have any amp at the moment to properly run these beasts.  Would you guys have any recommendations for a good, but not too expensive amp I should look into? These are my first pair of high end headphones and I'm really excited to use them to their full potential!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 07 August 2014, 13:02:06
Hey Guys!
I'm sorry if this topic has already been discussed in this thread, but I was recently given a pair of Beyerdynamic DT 990 600 Ohm headphones by a relative of mine as a birthday gift, unfortunately I don't have any amp at the moment to properly run these beasts.  Would you guys have any recommendations for a good, but not too expensive amp I should look into? These are my first pair of high end headphones and I'm really excited to use them to their full potential!

http://schiit.com/products/magni (http://schiit.com/products/magni), aune T1, new monoprice amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Thu, 07 August 2014, 13:05:17
Hey Guys!
I'm sorry if this topic has already been discussed in this thread, but I was recently given a pair of Beyerdynamic DT 990 600 Ohm headphones by a relative of mine as a birthday gift, unfortunately I don't have any amp at the moment to properly run these beasts.  Would you guys have any recommendations for a good, but not too expensive amp I should look into? These are my first pair of high end headphones and I'm really excited to use them to their full potential!

http://schiit.com/products/magni (http://schiit.com/products/magni), aune T1, new monoprice amp.
Thanks!!  :cool:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 07 August 2014, 13:08:30
Hey Guys!
I'm sorry if this topic has already been discussed in this thread, but I was recently given a pair of Beyerdynamic DT 990 600 Ohm headphones by a relative of mine as a birthday gift, unfortunately I don't have any amp at the moment to properly run these beasts.  Would you guys have any recommendations for a good, but not too expensive amp I should look into? These are my first pair of high end headphones and I'm really excited to use them to their full potential!

http://schiit.com/products/magni (http://schiit.com/products/magni), aune T1, new monoprice amp.
Thanks!!  :cool:

No worries. I have an Aune T1, and it works well with my DT990 Pros. The Aune and monoprice are both a DAC and AMP combined. The monoprice one is quite new, but I have heard good things about it. The schiit  seems to be popular choice, kinda like poker 2 of the audiophile world.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Thu, 07 August 2014, 16:01:13
I love my schiit stack. modi optical + magni.


edit. for others wondering j play a lot of csgo with a soundblaster z toslink output to modi to magni to ad700's. perfect positional queues. I can hear through most of the maps :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Thu, 07 August 2014, 16:04:05
With beyer anything I would prefer a Schiit Vali for a cheap really good option.

I've had the Hifiman HE-560 for the last week or so and they are really quite astounding. Airy like a good dynamic yet wonderfully layered and textured bass.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Fri, 08 August 2014, 00:46:13
With beyer anything I would prefer a Schiit Vali for a cheap really good option.

I've had the Hifiman HE-560 for the last week or so and they are really quite astounding. Airy like a good dynamic yet wonderfully layered and textured bass.

+1 here. Schiit makes some really good headphone amplifiers. Currently running my beyerdynamic T1's on my asgard 2. It sounds amazing. so if youre also after a dac, I would recommend modi + vali.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Sat, 09 August 2014, 15:15:13
With beyer anything I would prefer a Schiit Vali for a cheap really good option.

I've had the Hifiman HE-560 for the last week or so and they are really quite astounding. Airy like a good dynamic yet wonderfully layered and textured bass.

Have you had a chance to listen to the HE-500s?  If so, do you think the 560 are worth the extra ~$300?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RED-404 on Sat, 09 August 2014, 16:42:31
This is my everyday setup. Shure SRH840, O2/ODAC, Antlion ModMic v4 and a Blue Yeti.
WOW I need to clean these things.  :eek:
(http://red.dazoe.net/stuff/WIN_20140809_160243.JPG)(http://red.dazoe.net/stuff/WIN_20140809_161735.JPG)(http://red.dazoe.net/stuff/WIN_20140809_161917.JPG)
Continues futile attempt at saving $$$ for a pair of HiFiMan - HE-400 headphones, spends it all on keyboard stuff...
I also have a set of Alessandro MS1i headphones by my bed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 09 August 2014, 16:57:27
Holy ****. Your avatar is actually you!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 09 August 2014, 17:12:33
Just sold the dt880s, now I have money to buy either wood cups for my grados (to sell said grados) and d2ks or to buy a pair of he400i when they release this week.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Sat, 09 August 2014, 17:41:18
With beyer anything I would prefer a Schiit Vali for a cheap really good option.

I've had the Hifiman HE-560 for the last week or so and they are really quite astounding. Airy like a good dynamic yet wonderfully layered and textured bass.

Have you had a chance to listen to the HE-500s?  If so, do you think the 560 are worth the extra ~$300?
I have not owned them but listened to them quite extensively and for me they are worth it over the 500 for sure. The bass one the HE-500 is a lot more one-notish and treble wasnt as detailed and extended. The comfort is the main factor for me as I have a small head and find most planars pretty uncomfortable. I sold my LCD-2 because I could not wear them for longer periods of time and the HE-500 was in the same ballpark. The HE-560 is in another league in comfort.
Technically I find the HE-560 a step or two above the 500 but it is also a matter of sound signature. Some might prefer the 500 for its warmer sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RED-404 on Sat, 09 August 2014, 17:50:32
Holy ****. Your avatar is actually you!
I think I have heard this someplace before.
Holy ****, you actually look like your avatar.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Sat, 09 August 2014, 19:18:24
With beyer anything I would prefer a Schiit Vali for a cheap really good option.

I've had the Hifiman HE-560 for the last week or so and they are really quite astounding. Airy like a good dynamic yet wonderfully layered and textured bass.

Have you had a chance to listen to the HE-500s?  If so, do you think the 560 are worth the extra ~$300?
I have not owned them but listened to them quite extensively and for me they are worth it over the 500 for sure. The bass one the HE-500 is a lot more one-notish and treble wasnt as detailed and extended. The comfort is the main factor for me as I have a small head and find most planars pretty uncomfortable. I sold my LCD-2 because I could not wear them for longer periods of time and the HE-500 was in the same ballpark. The HE-560 is in another league in comfort.
Technically I find the HE-560 a step or two above the 500 but it is also a matter of sound signature. Some might prefer the 500 for its warmer sound.

Thanks for your impressions! I'm looking into getting a pair and I'm polling people for short reviews haha. I'm pretty happy with my grados for now so I'll look for a used pair or wait for them to come down in price a little bit.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LechnerDE on Wed, 20 August 2014, 13:30:37
Hey guys,

I need new headphones (mainly for gaming).

Would you recommend this offer or can I get something better for that money?

akg-q701 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/akg-q701-audiophile-headphones?mode=guest_open&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Massdrop%20-%20Master&utm_campaign=Product%20Announcement%202014-08-20)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vun on Wed, 20 August 2014, 14:55:15
Hey guys,

I need new headphones (mainly for gaming).

Would you recommend this offer or can I get something better for that money?

akg-q701 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/akg-q701-audiophile-headphones?mode=guest_open&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Massdrop%20-%20Master&utm_campaign=Product%20Announcement%202014-08-20)

Considering you're in Europe I'm gonna guess those are three times more expensive for you if you want to buy them in Germany, so if you want the Q701s that's a fantastic deal. I got in on the last drop for them and I am loving them. Amazing headphones and great value at that price. Just be aware that the headband can get uncomfortable, so you might want to mod that in some way.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 21 August 2014, 00:05:19
Well currently I own the JH Roxanne Universal fit
(http://www.moon-audio.com/jh-audio-sirens-series-roxanne-universal-iem.html)
which I use for portable reasons.
To go with that I have an AK120 on the way (recently sold my Fiio X5)
(http://www.amazon.com/Astell-Kern-Mastering-Quality-Portable/dp/B00D648BDA)

At home I have a pair of Audio Technica W3000anv that I cherish as a beautiful piece that sounds absolutely magical on some parts but unfortunately to make funds for a Noble Kaiser 10 I've put these up for sale =(
http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/headphones/3c552629c6cf881d/index.html

Previously owned headphones:
Philips Citiscape Downtown
Alpha Dogs
NAD Viso HP50
Fostex TH900
Chord And Major Rock
Stax SR407
Sennheiser HD700
Final Audio FI-BA-SS
Audio Technica ESW11LTD
Stax SR007mk2
Hifiman HE6
Sennheiser HD800
Shure SE535
Audeze LCD2r1
Beyerdynamic T5p
Shure SE425
AKG Q701
Sony XB500
Bowers and Wilkins P5
Grado SR325i
Sennheiser Momentum

And if I haven't owned it I probably demoed it at some point!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 21 August 2014, 02:07:49
Well currently I own the JH Roxanne Universal fit
(http://www.moon-audio.com/jh-audio-sirens-series-roxanne-universal-iem.html)
which I use for portable reasons.
To go with that I have an AK120 on the way (recently sold my Fiio X5)
(http://www.amazon.com/Astell-Kern-Mastering-Quality-Portable/dp/B00D648BDA)

At home I have a pair of Audio Technica W3000anv that I cherish as a beautiful piece that sounds absolutely magical on some parts but unfortunately to make funds for a Noble Kaiser 10 I've put these up for sale =(
http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/headphones/3c552629c6cf881d/index.html

Previously owned headphones:
Philips Citiscape Downtown
Alpha Dogs
NAD Viso HP50
Fostex TH900
Chord And Major Rock
Stax SR407
Sennheiser HD700
Final Audio FI-BA-SS
Audio Technica ESW11LTD
Stax SR007mk2
Hifiman HE6
Sennheiser HD800
Shure SE535
Audeze LCD2r1
Beyerdynamic T5p
Shure SE425
AKG Q701
Sony XB500
Bowers and Wilkins P5
Grado SR325i
Sennheiser Momentum

And if I haven't owned it I probably demoed it at some point!

And I thought my list of owned headphones was impressive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 21 August 2014, 02:13:43
How do you like the se425s? I am considering them as my next headphone purchase. Needed some nice IEMs for years now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 21 August 2014, 06:23:16
How do you like the se425s? I am considering them as my next headphone purchase. Needed some nice IEMs for years now.

I thought the 535 was such a huge step up that it was worth it.
The 425 reminded me very much of the shure srh940 and I don't like that one at all. The 940 has almost no bass and is very much treble based. Not natural at all (which is something I aim for)
The 425 was not as bad but still similar in signature I'd say.
They were also extremely sibilant which is something I tend  to be sensitive to.
The 535 was a huge step up and a used pair can be found for just under $300 in great condition. You could always wipe the outer shell down with peroxide to kill of bacteria if that's something you're worried about.
The 535 had it's deficiencies but for $300 I think it's a good buy. The shure 846 is a very nice step up too and definitely deserving of flagship status. Unfortunately for people with small ears such as myself it just won't fit comfortably (I'm barely getting the Roxannes in)
Another note, I hated the fibass as well. Reminded me quite a bit of the 425. Tinny, bright
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 22 August 2014, 23:48:35
any one looking for some mad dogs?

willing to trade for some DT 770s 250ohms
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vun on Sun, 24 August 2014, 16:47:38
My Q701s, I was worried they'd look too dull in black but they look quite nice

(http://i.imgur.com/it0ZRW9.jpg)

And my new headphone stand

(http://i.imgur.com/kPvvWzN.jpg)

I don't know if I dare put my Q701s or Beyer COPs on it because tension, so if anyone can give me some advice on that I'd appreciate it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 24 August 2014, 23:52:24
My Q701s, I was worried they'd look too dull in black but they look quite nice

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/it0ZRW9.jpg)


And my new headphone stand

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/kPvvWzN.jpg)


I don't know if I dare put my Q701s or Beyer COPs on it because tension, so if anyone can give me some advice on that I'd appreciate it.

That stand looks great but like you said I'd rather not have it stretch out
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mashby on Mon, 25 August 2014, 11:37:46
I've owned a pair of Sony MDR-7506s for about 12 years and ignored most of the recent upsurge in headphone technology figuring that it was mostly hype. Then a friend of mine got a DAC off of Massdrop and I gave it a listen this weekend and was suitably impressed. So, I just bought a Schitt Magni/Modi (http://schiit.com/products/modi) stack and waiting for it to arrive.   :))

I wouldn't call myself an audiophile by a long shot, but I do listen to a lot of music at the office so I figured it'd be a nice step up from the default audio out from my Macbook Air.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 25 August 2014, 11:41:24
I've owned a pair of Sony MDR-7506s for about 12 years and ignored most of the recent upsurge in headphone technology figuring that it was mostly hype. Then a friend of mine got a DAC off of Massdrop and I gave it a listen this weekend and was suitably impressed. So, I just bought a Schitt Magni/Modi (http://schiit.com/products/modi) stack and waiting for it to arrive.   :))

I wouldn't call myself an audiophile by a long shot, but I do listen to a lot of music at the office so I figured it'd be a nice step up from the default audio out from my Macbook Air.

Upgrade those headphones along with them!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 25 August 2014, 13:18:09
I've owned a pair of Sony MDR-7506s for about 12 years and ignored most of the recent upsurge in headphone technology figuring that it was mostly hype. Then a friend of mine got a DAC off of Massdrop and I gave it a listen this weekend and was suitably impressed. So, I just bought a Schitt Magni/Modi (http://schiit.com/products/modi) stack and waiting for it to arrive.   :))

I wouldn't call myself an audiophile by a long shot, but I do listen to a lot of music at the office so I figured it'd be a nice step up from the default audio out from my Macbook Air.

One of us, one of us.  Also, those V6s are still in production and fairly well regarded, too.  So high five on that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mashby on Mon, 25 August 2014, 14:25:59
One of us, one of us.  Also, those V6s are still in production and fairly well regarded, too.  So high five on that.

Thanks Klaxbro! I figure I'll upgrade at some point in the future, but they've been good cans for me.

However, when you come up to Nashville, feel free to school me on ways that I could improve my setup.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Mon, 25 August 2014, 14:29:14
However, when you come up to Nashville, feel free to school me on ways that I could improve my setup.  :thumb:

Trust me, you'll upgrade after you check out the stuff we bring out :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 25 August 2014, 14:30:09
One of us, one of us.  Also, those V6s are still in production and fairly well regarded, too.  So high five on that.

Thanks Klaxbro! I figure I'll upgrade at some point in the future, but they've been good cans for me.

However, when you come up to Nashville, feel free to school me on ways that I could improve my setup.  :thumb:

I may only have one pair of headphones you can try at that point, weirdly enough (I'll still own 2 pair, but you can't wear my customs).  But yeah, I expect that to be a conversation while I swap my novatouch stems around.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 08 September 2014, 21:35:12
these are pretty magical :d

(http://i.imgur.com/t4sg1BL.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/ByRxq3h.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/0rfybPE.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Mon, 08 September 2014, 21:37:01
these are pretty magical :d

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/t4sg1BL.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/ByRxq3h.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0rfybPE.jpg?1)


ultra jelly  :p.  The packaging is pretty snazzy too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 08 September 2014, 21:51:11
these are pretty magical :d

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/t4sg1BL.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/ByRxq3h.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0rfybPE.jpg?1)


Very nice!  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 08 September 2014, 22:14:35
HiFiMan is on a roll.  I hope other companies start to notice and compete at this level.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 08 September 2014, 22:46:01
Dang Binge, nice HE560s ;P

I'll just leave these here:

(http://i.imgur.com/KuojnAe.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/HtdzR59.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Fdz41Zs.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Fi3wo18.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/IX9YdPX.jpg)

As for Hifiman... I've never actually been wowed by a set of planars regardless of the amps I've tried with them. The best ones I've heard were definitely the Abyss (those $5000 hunks of metal) but were incredibly uncomfortable and heavy.

I found electrostatics had a very unique feel to them when listening through a proper setup (though when I say that I mean setups that usually run $5000).

Since then I've been bouncing around dynamics
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 08 September 2014, 23:11:25
I should take a pic of my current stuff...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 08 September 2014, 23:21:16
I should take a pic of my current stuff...

do it
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Mon, 08 September 2014, 23:47:47
I should take a pic of my current stuff...

do it

Don't tell him what to do.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 09 September 2014, 00:13:37
I should take a pic of my current stuff...

do it

Don't tell him what to do.

bro do you even do what to tell don't him?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Tue, 09 September 2014, 00:15:33
I should take a pic of my current stuff...

do it

Don't tell him what to do.

bro do you even do what to tell don't him?

I would agree that the mailbox DID look good in that scenario, but no I wouldn't necessarily say that it worked out great for me. Na mean?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 09 September 2014, 00:22:33
I should take a pic of my current stuff...

do it

Don't tell him what to do.

bro do you even do what to tell don't him?

I would agree that the mailbox DID look good in that scenario, but no I wouldn't necessarily say that it worked out great for me. Na mean?

Solid tho.  And like I said to m'man TJ's gotta post pics or it didn't happen :-/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cherpalla on Tue, 09 September 2014, 07:51:39
Astro A40's over and over again. So comfy, I sleep in Skype calls with them on. IM NOT EVEN JOKING.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Tue, 09 September 2014, 08:55:51
these are pretty magical :d

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/t4sg1BL.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/ByRxq3h.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0rfybPE.jpg?1)

Reppin He-560 I see, I did the grill mod for mine and its nice but small improvement.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 11 September 2014, 20:24:37
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15212298985_fb13ea4a5c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ)DSC00015.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Will probably sell these soon (sr225i with vibro labs cups and G cush) -
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 11 September 2014, 20:29:12
Show Image
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15212298985_fb13ea4a5c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ)
DSC00015.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Will probably sell these soon (sr225i with vibro labs cups and G cush) -
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Th900 are truly stunning, one of my favorite headphones and to my eyes the nicest aesthetically speaking
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 11 September 2014, 20:33:04
Show Image
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15212298985_fb13ea4a5c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ)
DSC00015.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Will probably sell these soon (sr225i with vibro labs cups and G cush) -
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Th900 are truly stunning, one of my favorite headphones and to my eyes the nicest aesthetically speaking

I only wish I'd gotten them earlier.  TH900 for inside, jh13pro outside, I'm done.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 11 September 2014, 20:44:10
Show Image
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15212298985_fb13ea4a5c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ)
DSC00015.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Will probably sell these soon (sr225i with vibro labs cups and G cush) -
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Th900 are truly stunning, one of my favorite headphones and to my eyes the nicest aesthetically speaking

I only wish I'd gotten them earlier.  TH900 for inside, jh13pro outside, I'm done.

Good matches for sure!
Right now I have the Roxannes for outside and W3000anv for inside. I sold the Th900 to get the W3000anv and I'm not particularly sure it was even worth it. More of a side step (though they are the same price and both are closed back so it's understandable).
Though at the same time it's the experience along with it.

BTW are you enjoying your MDR10RBT yet?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 11 September 2014, 20:47:55
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Oh god... these are so sexy... Mmmfff.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 11 September 2014, 20:49:34
Show Image
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15212298985_fb13ea4a5c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ)
DSC00015.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Will probably sell these soon (sr225i with vibro labs cups and G cush) -
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Th900 are truly stunning, one of my favorite headphones and to my eyes the nicest aesthetically speaking

I only wish I'd gotten them earlier.  TH900 for inside, jh13pro outside, I'm done.

Good matches for sure!
Right now I have the Roxannes for outside and W3000anv for inside. I sold the Th900 to get the W3000anv and I'm not particularly sure it was even worth it. More of a side step (though they are the same price and both are closed back so it's understandable).
Though at the same time it's the experience along with it.

BTW are you enjoying your MDR10RBT yet?

Haven't opened them.  I'm going to just flip them, I think.  I did like the mdr-10 sound when I demoed them in the past, but they're a little small for long time listening.

True about the experience.  I might not appreciate these as much or even think I'm done looking had I got these when I got my he400 or lcd-2 way back when.

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Oh god... these are so sexy... Mmmfff.

And they don't sound bad either.  Like if I found a stupid deal on ps500s, I might pick up a pair based on how these turned out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 11 September 2014, 21:02:47
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Oh god... these are so sexy... Mmmfff.

And they don't sound bad either.  Like if I found a stupid deal on ps500s, I might pick up a pair based on how these turned out.

Man... I'll look forward to reading your thoughts on them. Absolutely love how they look though. Can only imagine how they sound :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 11 September 2014, 21:10:47
Show Image
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15212298985_fb13ea4a5c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ)
DSC00015.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Will probably sell these soon (sr225i with vibro labs cups and G cush) -
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Th900 are truly stunning, one of my favorite headphones and to my eyes the nicest aesthetically speaking

I only wish I'd gotten them earlier.  TH900 for inside, jh13pro outside, I'm done.

Good matches for sure!
Right now I have the Roxannes for outside and W3000anv for inside. I sold the Th900 to get the W3000anv and I'm not particularly sure it was even worth it. More of a side step (though they are the same price and both are closed back so it's understandable).
Though at the same time it's the experience along with it.

BTW are you enjoying your MDR10RBT yet?

Haven't opened them.  I'm going to just flip them, I think.  I did like the mdr-10 sound when I demoed them in the past, but they're a little small for long time listening.

True about the experience.  I might not appreciate these as much or even think I'm done looking had I got these when I got my he400 or lcd-2 way back when.

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Oh god... these are so sexy... Mmmfff.

And they don't sound bad either.  Like if I found a stupid deal on ps500s, I might pick up a pair based on how these turned out.

Jump on the stupid deals! They pay off.

Got HD700s for $300 once, HE6 for $600

Good times were had. Those were the first times I owned those respective headphones so it was an experience as well

PS500s were the "best" Grados IMO (at least in their modern line)

And do what you want with the MDR10RBT :P I left the receipt in the Poker 2 box
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slip84 on Fri, 12 September 2014, 09:46:34
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 12 September 2014, 11:42:05
Scored some Shure Se535s for $300, from a Canadian retailer too!  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Fri, 12 September 2014, 13:24:11
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Goddamn, those are some scary good deals.  I'm keeping my eyes out for some cheap hifiman headphones and audeze, but so far no luck.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 12 September 2014, 13:50:21
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nahka on Fri, 12 September 2014, 15:18:55
Anyone have some good bluetooth headphones to recommend?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 12 September 2014, 17:19:41
Anyone have some good bluetooth headphones to recommend?

tj has some for sale right now. they look to have pretty good reviews.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=61815.0

tj legit as **** too. sucks at CS, but he's legit.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 12 September 2014, 17:21:53
Anyone have some good bluetooth headphones to recommend?

tj has some for sale right now. they look to have pretty good reviews.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=61815.0

tj legit as **** too. sucks at CS, but he's legit.

Aha xP those are the ones I traded him for his JD40 xp

Sony Bluetooth is good. Sony is also coming out with the XB950!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slip84 on Fri, 12 September 2014, 20:27:25
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Fri, 12 September 2014, 20:33:11
Show Image
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15212298985_fb13ea4a5c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ)
DSC00015.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pbg1uZ) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Will probably sell these soon (sr225i with vibro labs cups and G cush) -
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15189270706_5a506d29b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG)DSC00014.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p9dYZG) by tjcaustin (https://www.flickr.com/people/20887387@N06/), on Flickr

Damn dude those are some drool worthy photos, great work!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 12 September 2014, 20:34:14
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Fri, 26 September 2014, 20:18:21
Having some issues with my Denon AH D-5000's. I've had them for about 3-4 years, but in the past week or so the left side has been gradually getting quieter and quieter. It's been a slow process, and at first I thought I was imagining it or something, but now the volume difference between the right and left are extremely noticeable. About half the volume of the right side, and I think it's getting lower everyday.

Anyone have any ideas as to what's going on here, because my Denon's are by far my favorite headphones and I'd like to do anything I can to save them if the driver is failing. It might be something wrong with the cord connection internally, but I have not opened them up to check.

Any insight would be appreciated.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Sat, 27 September 2014, 03:24:24
Having some issues with my Denon AH D-5000's. I've had them for about 3-4 years, but in the past week or so the left side has been gradually getting quieter and quieter. It's been a slow process, and at first I thought I was imagining it or something, but now the volume difference between the right and left are extremely noticeable. About half the volume of the right side, and I think it's getting lower everyday.

Anyone have any ideas as to what's going on here, because my Denon's are by far my favorite headphones and I'd like to do anything I can to save them if the driver is failing. It might be something wrong with the cord connection internally, but I have not opened them up to check.

Any insight would be appreciated.

My guess is also that its the cord. Does anything happen if you wiggle the contact? If nothing happens you should open them as you said.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 27 September 2014, 05:45:35
Having some issues with my Denon AH D-5000's. I've had them for about 3-4 years, but in the past week or so the left side has been gradually getting quieter and quieter. It's been a slow process, and at first I thought I was imagining it or something, but now the volume difference between the right and left are extremely noticeable. About half the volume of the right side, and I think it's getting lower everyday.

Anyone have any ideas as to what's going on here, because my Denon's are by far my favorite headphones and I'd like to do anything I can to save them if the driver is failing. It might be something wrong with the cord connection internally, but I have not opened them up to check.

Any insight would be appreciated.

My guess is also that its the cord. Does anything happen if you wiggle the contact? If nothing happens you should open them as you said.

No changes when I wiggle or push the cord in where it meets the headphone, or when adjusting any of jacks. The problem is I'm not savvy on audio equipment internals and don't want to potentially damage $500 headphones that aren't being made anymore without knowing what to do.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 08:27:09
Having some issues with my Denon AH D-5000's. I've had them for about 3-4 years, but in the past week or so the left side has been gradually getting quieter and quieter. It's been a slow process, and at first I thought I was imagining it or something, but now the volume difference between the right and left are extremely noticeable. About half the volume of the right side, and I think it's getting lower everyday.

Anyone have any ideas as to what's going on here, because my Denon's are by far my favorite headphones and I'd like to do anything I can to save them if the driver is failing. It might be something wrong with the cord connection internally, but I have not opened them up to check.

Any insight would be appreciated.

My guess is also that its the cord. Does anything happen if you wiggle the contact? If nothing happens you should open them as you said.

No changes when I wiggle or push the cord in where it meets the headphone, or when adjusting any of jacks. The problem is I'm not savvy on audio equipment internals and don't want to potentially damage $500 headphones that aren't being made anymore without knowing what to do.

If it's something in the internals then you're really stuck.
While listening to them, starting from the jack, work your way up the cable doing a few twists here and there to see if anything changes while you do thus. I also assume you have but to rule out faulty source equipment have you tried it with another device?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 27 September 2014, 14:53:12
Having some issues with my Denon AH D-5000's. I've had them for about 3-4 years, but in the past week or so the left side has been gradually getting quieter and quieter. It's been a slow process, and at first I thought I was imagining it or something, but now the volume difference between the right and left are extremely noticeable. About half the volume of the right side, and I think it's getting lower everyday.

Anyone have any ideas as to what's going on here, because my Denon's are by far my favorite headphones and I'd like to do anything I can to save them if the driver is failing. It might be something wrong with the cord connection internally, but I have not opened them up to check.

Any insight would be appreciated.

My guess is also that its the cord. Does anything happen if you wiggle the contact? If nothing happens you should open them as you said.

No changes when I wiggle or push the cord in where it meets the headphone, or when adjusting any of jacks. The problem is I'm not savvy on audio equipment internals and don't want to potentially damage $500 headphones that aren't being made anymore without knowing what to do.

If it's something in the internals then you're really stuck.
While listening to them, starting from the jack, work your way up the cable doing a few twists here and there to see if anything changes while you do thus. I also assume you have but to rule out faulty source equipment have you tried it with another device?

Yes, it's definitely not the the amps. I've tested the Denon's on both my O2 and Lyr with the same low volume in the left headset. Subsequently, my LCD's work fine with both amps.

I'm pondering this service: http://www.headphone.com/pages/headphone-repair-and-upgrades (http://www.headphone.com/pages/headphone-repair-and-upgrades)
where they will replace the cables with Fat Pipe cables. Has anyone used this repair service, or can recommend another?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Sat, 27 September 2014, 17:12:36
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end

WOAH, WHAT?  I spent like $10,000 on headphones and concluded the HD600 to be better than a ton of other headphones including Denon D2000, AKG K702, Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990, Stax Lambda / Nova, etc.  Eh, well about equal to the Stax Lambda.  The Nova was pretty bad.

Are the HD700/800 really that much better?  :eek:

If so, I'll take 3.  :p

side note: I have some like-new Westone UM Pro 30s available for $270 shipped (CONUS).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pichu23 on Sat, 27 September 2014, 17:23:34
I'm planning to get the SoundTrue™ around-ear headphones by Bose. I've read a couple of reviews online and most of them are saying it's decent and for the design it looks pretty nice.
Wanna replace this Beats Solo I have atm. :3 I'm planning to get a pair of earphones as well. Leaning towards the Sound Magic e10 for it's price & performance. Any owners out there, it would be great if you could share your experience !
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 19:11:49
Having some issues with my Denon AH D-5000's. I've had them for about 3-4 years, but in the past week or so the left side has been gradually getting quieter and quieter. It's been a slow process, and at first I thought I was imagining it or something, but now the volume difference between the right and left are extremely noticeable. About half the volume of the right side, and I think it's getting lower everyday.

Anyone have any ideas as to what's going on here, because my Denon's are by far my favorite headphones and I'd like to do anything I can to save them if the driver is failing. It might be something wrong with the cord connection internally, but I have not opened them up to check.

Any insight would be appreciated.

My guess is also that its the cord. Does anything happen if you wiggle the contact? If nothing happens you should open them as you said.

No changes when I wiggle or push the cord in where it meets the headphone, or when adjusting any of jacks. The problem is I'm not savvy on audio equipment internals and don't want to potentially damage $500 headphones that aren't being made anymore without knowing what to do.

If it's something in the internals then you're really stuck.
While listening to them, starting from the jack, work your way up the cable doing a few twists here and there to see if anything changes while you do thus. I also assume you have but to rule out faulty source equipment have you tried it with another device?

Yes, it's definitely not the the amps. I've tested the Denon's on both my O2 and Lyr with the same low volume in the left headset. Subsequently, my LCD's work fine with both amps.

I'm pondering this service: http://www.headphone.com/pages/headphone-repair-and-upgrades (http://www.headphone.com/pages/headphone-repair-and-upgrades)
where they will replace the cables with Fat Pipe cables. Has anyone used this repair service, or can recommend another?

Internal problems. Some indicators that the problem is somewhere inside the headphone earcup or driver are: sound coming out of only one side, or neither; sound is distorted, quiet, or otherwise inaccurate. These problems may indicate a headphone that cannot be repaired, however they also could indicate a simple cable problem.  Contact us for help.

I suggest at least giving them a shout and asking for recommendations on other troubleshooting measures before you pay for a repair and cable swap :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 19:17:22
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end

WOAH, WHAT?  I spent like $10,000 on headphones and concluded the HD600 to be better than a ton of other headphones including Denon D2000, AKG K702, Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990, Stax Lambda / Nova, etc.  Eh, well about equal to the Stax Lambda.  The Nova was pretty bad.

Are the HD700/800 really that much better?  :eek:

If so, I'll take 3.  :p

side note: I have some like-new Westone UM Pro 30s available for $270 shipped (CONUS).

I've hated literally every beyer I've tried
The denon d2/5/7k all sounded really loose in the bass. The Fostex TH900 (which is significantly more expensive than the D7k was new) is a HUGE improvement over the previous 3 =)

As for AKG, they always sound really artificial.

As for stax... They're really picky with amps. My friend designed his own electrostatic amps and it's taken him something like 7 revisions including a complete rework at some point before he felt it was complete. From some analysis of official stax amps, most of them fail in a few areas which largely impacts the sound (except for the T2). The good custom amps are really a huge improvement.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 27 September 2014, 19:32:47
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end

WOAH, WHAT?  I spent like $10,000 on headphones and concluded the HD600 to be better than a ton of other headphones including Denon D2000, AKG K702, Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990, Stax Lambda / Nova, etc.  Eh, well about equal to the Stax Lambda.  The Nova was pretty bad.

Are the HD700/800 really that much better?  :eek:

If so, I'll take 3.  :p

side note: I have some like-new Westone UM Pro 30s available for $270 shipped (CONUS).

I've hated literally every beyer I've tried
The denon d2/5/7k all sounded really loose in the bass. The Fostex TH900 (which is significantly more expensive than the D7k was new) is a HUGE improvement over the previous 3 =)

As for AKG, they always sound really artificial.

As for stax... They're really picky with amps. My friend designed his own electrostatic amps and it's taken him something like 7 revisions including a complete rework at some point before he felt it was complete. From some analysis of official stax amps, most of them fail in a few areas which largely impacts the sound (except for the T2). The good custom amps are really a huge improvement.

Pointyfox and I have pretty much polar opposite tastes when it comes to headphones, but yeah, it's worth at least a long demo to try them out.

Kinda intrigued by the new sony's that should be released in the next few weeks, too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 19:36:57
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end

WOAH, WHAT?  I spent like $10,000 on headphones and concluded the HD600 to be better than a ton of other headphones including Denon D2000, AKG K702, Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990, Stax Lambda / Nova, etc.  Eh, well about equal to the Stax Lambda.  The Nova was pretty bad.

Are the HD700/800 really that much better?  :eek:

If so, I'll take 3.  :p

side note: I have some like-new Westone UM Pro 30s available for $270 shipped (CONUS).

I've hated literally every beyer I've tried
The denon d2/5/7k all sounded really loose in the bass. The Fostex TH900 (which is significantly more expensive than the D7k was new) is a HUGE improvement over the previous 3 =)

As for AKG, they always sound really artificial.

As for stax... They're really picky with amps. My friend designed his own electrostatic amps and it's taken him something like 7 revisions including a complete rework at some point before he felt it was complete. From some analysis of official stax amps, most of them fail in a few areas which largely impacts the sound (except for the T2). The good custom amps are really a huge improvement.

Pointyfox and I have pretty much polar opposite tastes when it comes to headphones, but yeah, it's worth at least a long demo to try them out.

Kinda intrigued by the new sony's that should be released in the next few weeks, too.

I probably would have bought them if it weren't for the rumors being spread by some dealers that a TOTL sony is coming out next year (2k+ range)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 27 September 2014, 19:37:20
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end

WOAH, WHAT?  I spent like $10,000 on headphones and concluded the HD600 to be better than a ton of other headphones including Denon D2000, AKG K702, Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990, Stax Lambda / Nova, etc.  Eh, well about equal to the Stax Lambda.  The Nova was pretty bad.

Are the HD700/800 really that much better?  :eek:

If so, I'll take 3.  :p

side note: I have some like-new Westone UM Pro 30s available for $270 shipped (CONUS).

I've hated literally every beyer I've tried
The denon d2/5/7k all sounded really loose in the bass. The Fostex TH900 (which is significantly more expensive than the D7k was new) is a HUGE improvement over the previous 3 =)

As for AKG, they always sound really artificial.

As for stax... They're really picky with amps. My friend designed his own electrostatic amps and it's taken him something like 7 revisions including a complete rework at some point before he felt it was complete. From some analysis of official stax amps, most of them fail in a few areas which largely impacts the sound (except for the T2). The good custom amps are really a huge improvement.

Pointyfox and I have pretty much polar opposite tastes when it comes to headphones, but yeah, it's worth at least a long demo to try them out.

Kinda intrigued by the new sony's that should be released in the next few weeks, too.

I've always found you can tell what kind of audiophile you are talking to by asking one simple question: "So, what do you think of Grado's?"

There is no wrong answer, but it's a big indicator of what kind of sound they like.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 19:49:47
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end

WOAH, WHAT?  I spent like $10,000 on headphones and concluded the HD600 to be better than a ton of other headphones including Denon D2000, AKG K702, Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990, Stax Lambda / Nova, etc.  Eh, well about equal to the Stax Lambda.  The Nova was pretty bad.

Are the HD700/800 really that much better?  :eek:

If so, I'll take 3.  :p

side note: I have some like-new Westone UM Pro 30s available for $270 shipped (CONUS).

I've hated literally every beyer I've tried
The denon d2/5/7k all sounded really loose in the bass. The Fostex TH900 (which is significantly more expensive than the D7k was new) is a HUGE improvement over the previous 3 =)

As for AKG, they always sound really artificial.

As for stax... They're really picky with amps. My friend designed his own electrostatic amps and it's taken him something like 7 revisions including a complete rework at some point before he felt it was complete. From some analysis of official stax amps, most of them fail in a few areas which largely impacts the sound (except for the T2). The good custom amps are really a huge improvement.

Pointyfox and I have pretty much polar opposite tastes when it comes to headphones, but yeah, it's worth at least a long demo to try them out.

Kinda intrigued by the new sony's that should be released in the next few weeks, too.

I've always found you can tell what kind of audiophile you are talking to by asking one simple question: "So, what do you think of Grado's?"

There is no wrong answer, but it's a big indicator of what kind of sound they like.

Most of my local audiophile friends (actually.. all of them) dislike grado but we all have extremely different tastes in headphones though we all more or less agree on what we dislike about grado
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 27 September 2014, 19:52:47
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end

WOAH, WHAT?  I spent like $10,000 on headphones and concluded the HD600 to be better than a ton of other headphones including Denon D2000, AKG K702, Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990, Stax Lambda / Nova, etc.  Eh, well about equal to the Stax Lambda.  The Nova was pretty bad.

Are the HD700/800 really that much better?  :eek:

If so, I'll take 3.  :p

side note: I have some like-new Westone UM Pro 30s available for $270 shipped (CONUS).

I've hated literally every beyer I've tried
The denon d2/5/7k all sounded really loose in the bass. The Fostex TH900 (which is significantly more expensive than the D7k was new) is a HUGE improvement over the previous 3 =)

As for AKG, they always sound really artificial.

As for stax... They're really picky with amps. My friend designed his own electrostatic amps and it's taken him something like 7 revisions including a complete rework at some point before he felt it was complete. From some analysis of official stax amps, most of them fail in a few areas which largely impacts the sound (except for the T2). The good custom amps are really a huge improvement.

Pointyfox and I have pretty much polar opposite tastes when it comes to headphones, but yeah, it's worth at least a long demo to try them out.

Kinda intrigued by the new sony's that should be released in the next few weeks, too.

I probably would have bought them if it weren't for the rumors being spread by some dealers that a TOTL sony is coming out next year (2k+ range)

Dude, nomax has been saying "just wait for a totl from sennheiser and sony" for nearly 2 years now, so whatever.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 20:04:29
Good deals are great! I got some HE400 for $100 shipped to my house. A guy on reddit was cleaning house on stuff and he said they were too heavy for him.

When I was first getting into headphones, I picked up some HD 558 for $75, which was decent at the time.

I would really love to get some HD700s. Where did you score them for $300?

Luck :P

But I hated them (hd7000)
Really? I have the HD 600 right now and a buddy of mine has the HD 700. I would, in a heartbeat, trade up for them. They're really a splendid set of headphones in my opinion. What did you not like about them?

The HD800s are just leagues ahead of the HD700.
The HD800 sounds like a high end while the 700 sounds like a middle end

WOAH, WHAT?  I spent like $10,000 on headphones and concluded the HD600 to be better than a ton of other headphones including Denon D2000, AKG K702, Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990, Stax Lambda / Nova, etc.  Eh, well about equal to the Stax Lambda.  The Nova was pretty bad.

Are the HD700/800 really that much better?  :eek:

If so, I'll take 3.  :p

side note: I have some like-new Westone UM Pro 30s available for $270 shipped (CONUS).

I've hated literally every beyer I've tried
The denon d2/5/7k all sounded really loose in the bass. The Fostex TH900 (which is significantly more expensive than the D7k was new) is a HUGE improvement over the previous 3 =)

As for AKG, they always sound really artificial.

As for stax... They're really picky with amps. My friend designed his own electrostatic amps and it's taken him something like 7 revisions including a complete rework at some point before he felt it was complete. From some analysis of official stax amps, most of them fail in a few areas which largely impacts the sound (except for the T2). The good custom amps are really a huge improvement.

Pointyfox and I have pretty much polar opposite tastes when it comes to headphones, but yeah, it's worth at least a long demo to try them out.

Kinda intrigued by the new sony's that should be released in the next few weeks, too.

I probably would have bought them if it weren't for the rumors being spread by some dealers that a TOTL sony is coming out next year (2k+ range)

Dude, nomax has been saying "just wait for a totl from sennheiser and sony" for nearly 2 years now, so whatever.

Haha yea, I have a friend that works at an audio store and he hinted that there may actually be something in prototyping for sennheiser (sennheiser has an office in this city)

As for the TOTL sony, didn't what's his face from Woo audio post on the headfi thread that the 2k sony headphones will be coming out in 2015?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 27 September 2014, 20:15:29
nomax and that guy are brothers, but yeah, he did.

I dunno, I'll believe it when I see it.  Right now, I'm trying to put blinders on and just enjoy my geek out/th900 combo.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 20:30:20
nomax and that guy are brothers, but yeah, he did.

I dunno, I'll believe it when I see it.  Right now, I'm trying to put blinders on and just enjoy my geek out/th900 combo.

I really enjoyed the TH900. Definitely the most fun headphone while still being hifi
I've owned most of the TOTL headphones and the only ones I'd say "beat it" (only in a hifi sense, it won't be as fun) is the Stax SR007mk1

Though I've never tried those kinds of rare headphones like the Sony 010, R10, Audio Technica L3000 and the likes).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 27 September 2014, 20:33:27
nomax and that guy are brothers, but yeah, he did.

I dunno, I'll believe it when I see it.  Right now, I'm trying to put blinders on and just enjoy my geek out/th900 combo.

I really enjoyed the TH900. Definitely the most fun headphone while still being hifi
I've owned most of the TOTL headphones and the only ones I'd say "beat it" (only in a hifi sense, it won't be as fun) is the Stax SR007mk1

Though I've never tried those kinds of rare headphones like the Sony 010, R10, Audio Technica L3000 and the likes).

Yeah, they're the closest I've got to my jh13pro in terms of sound I love.  I think the latter still edges on detail overall, but I'm happier with the th900 than I was with lcd-2, hd800, k712pro or any of the other stuff I've put around my head.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sat, 27 September 2014, 21:06:55
Shure se535s arrived on Friday, now I just have to wait a week and a bit to try them. Super excited for my first proper iems.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 21:18:29
nomax and that guy are brothers, but yeah, he did.

I dunno, I'll believe it when I see it.  Right now, I'm trying to put blinders on and just enjoy my geek out/th900 combo.

I really enjoyed the TH900. Definitely the most fun headphone while still being hifi
I've owned most of the TOTL headphones and the only ones I'd say "beat it" (only in a hifi sense, it won't be as fun) is the Stax SR007mk1

Though I've never tried those kinds of rare headphones like the Sony 010, R10, Audio Technica L3000 and the likes).

Yeah, they're the closest I've got to my jh13pro in terms of sound I love.  I think the latter still edges on detail overall, but I'm happier with the th900 than I was with lcd-2, hd800, k712pro or any of the other stuff I've put around my head.

It's so preference based though :P

At one of the headfi meets I organized there was one guy who spent the entire time talking about the best headphones in the world: the Hifiman HE400

It's very subjective xD
Lots of people will prefer the HD800, LCD2/3/X/XC over the TH900 any day. Though they're all really different.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 27 September 2014, 21:34:40
nomax and that guy are brothers, but yeah, he did.

I dunno, I'll believe it when I see it.  Right now, I'm trying to put blinders on and just enjoy my geek out/th900 combo.

I really enjoyed the TH900. Definitely the most fun headphone while still being hifi
I've owned most of the TOTL headphones and the only ones I'd say "beat it" (only in a hifi sense, it won't be as fun) is the Stax SR007mk1

Though I've never tried those kinds of rare headphones like the Sony 010, R10, Audio Technica L3000 and the likes).

Yeah, they're the closest I've got to my jh13pro in terms of sound I love.  I think the latter still edges on detail overall, but I'm happier with the th900 than I was with lcd-2, hd800, k712pro or any of the other stuff I've put around my head.

It's so preference based though :P

At one of the headfi meets I organized there was one guy who spent the entire time talking about the best headphones in the world: the Hifiman HE400

It's very subjective xD
Lots of people will prefer the HD800, LCD2/3/X/XC over the TH900 any day. Though they're all really different.

No doubt.  Hell, reading about how other people liked -fill in the blank- more than the th900 is why it took me so long to get to them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 27 September 2014, 22:04:37
nomax and that guy are brothers, but yeah, he did.

I dunno, I'll believe it when I see it.  Right now, I'm trying to put blinders on and just enjoy my geek out/th900 combo.

I really enjoyed the TH900. Definitely the most fun headphone while still being hifi
I've owned most of the TOTL headphones and the only ones I'd say "beat it" (only in a hifi sense, it won't be as fun) is the Stax SR007mk1

Though I've never tried those kinds of rare headphones like the Sony 010, R10, Audio Technica L3000 and the likes).

Yeah, they're the closest I've got to my jh13pro in terms of sound I love.  I think the latter still edges on detail overall, but I'm happier with the th900 than I was with lcd-2, hd800, k712pro or any of the other stuff I've put around my head.

It's so preference based though :P

At one of the headfi meets I organized there was one guy who spent the entire time talking about the best headphones in the world: the Hifiman HE400

It's very subjective xD
Lots of people will prefer the HD800, LCD2/3/X/XC over the TH900 any day. Though they're all really different.

No doubt.  Hell, reading about how other people liked -fill in the blank- more than the th900 is why it took me so long to get to them.

For me it was the fact that it was similar design to the old denons (and people were calling it an upgrade to those I believe)... I absolutely hated those (modded or stock) as they just felt non-hifi. But I was really surprised once I actually tried the TH900. When I received them in a trade I really expected to sell them instantly (and even told the other party that these were my intentions)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Thu, 02 October 2014, 08:09:48
I've been following this thread off and on for a while, wanted to see what people are recommending lately for close-back headphones?  I have the Mad Dogs at home, and I think they are superb for movies and gaming, but a bit bulky to schlep back and forth to work.  Currently at work I listen to music using ATH-M50s driven by a Little Dot  amp (and a Fiio for DAC), which were a nice upgrade when I got them, but now I'd like to try something different. 

Looking at closed-back to block out some background noise in the office (and to keep from over-sharing...).  I've tried the HD598s, which were really comfortable but were also quite transparent to background chatter.  I'm not a fan of headphones that accentuate upper ranges, as I find sibilance really annoying.  Also not looking for artificially boosted bass, from the headphones I've tried I tend to like a flatter response, it sounds more natural to my ears.

Any low- to mid-priced recommendations?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 02 October 2014, 08:41:57
I've been following this thread off and on for a while, wanted to see what people are recommending lately for close-back headphones?  I have the Mad Dogs at home, and I think they are superb for movies and gaming, but a bit bulky to schlep back and forth to work.  Currently at work I listen to music using ATH-M50s driven by a Little Dot  amp (and a Fiio for DAC), which were a nice upgrade when I got them, but now I'd like to try something different. 

Looking at closed-back to block out some background noise in the office (and to keep from over-sharing...).  I've tried the HD598s, which were really comfortable but were also quite transparent to background chatter.  I'm not a fan of headphones that accentuate upper ranges, as I find sibilance really annoying.  Also not looking for artificially boosted bass, from the headphones I've tried I tend to like a flatter response, it sounds more natural to my ears.

Any low- to mid-priced recommendations?

Alpha dogs with the doggy treats installed should tame the sharper treble.
Mid range price
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 02 October 2014, 14:01:16
I've been following this thread off and on for a while, wanted to see what people are recommending lately for close-back headphones?  I have the Mad Dogs at home, and I think they are superb for movies and gaming, but a bit bulky to schlep back and forth to work.  Currently at work I listen to music using ATH-M50s driven by a Little Dot  amp (and a Fiio for DAC), which were a nice upgrade when I got them, but now I'd like to try something different. 

Looking at closed-back to block out some background noise in the office (and to keep from over-sharing...).  I've tried the HD598s, which were really comfortable but were also quite transparent to background chatter.  I'm not a fan of headphones that accentuate upper ranges, as I find sibilance really annoying.  Also not looking for artificially boosted bass, from the headphones I've tried I tend to like a flatter response, it sounds more natural to my ears.

Any low- to mid-priced recommendations?


NAD HP50
Focal Spirit One S
Focal Spirit Professional

All in the 200 - 300 range.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 02 October 2014, 14:26:30
I've been following this thread off and on for a while, wanted to see what people are recommending lately for close-back headphones?  I have the Mad Dogs at home, and I think they are superb for movies and gaming, but a bit bulky to schlep back and forth to work.  Currently at work I listen to music using ATH-M50s driven by a Little Dot  amp (and a Fiio for DAC), which were a nice upgrade when I got them, but now I'd like to try something different. 

Looking at closed-back to block out some background noise in the office (and to keep from over-sharing...).  I've tried the HD598s, which were really comfortable but were also quite transparent to background chatter.  I'm not a fan of headphones that accentuate upper ranges, as I find sibilance really annoying.  Also not looking for artificially boosted bass, from the headphones I've tried I tend to like a flatter response, it sounds more natural to my ears.

Any low- to mid-priced recommendations?


NAD HP50
Focal Spirit One S
Focal Spirit Professional

All in the 200 - 300 range.

Wasn't a fan of the focal headphones but the HP50 is a beast for the price!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 02 October 2014, 23:02:35
I've been following this thread off and on for a while, wanted to see what people are recommending lately for close-back headphones?  I have the Mad Dogs at home, and I think they are superb for movies and gaming, but a bit bulky to schlep back and forth to work.  Currently at work I listen to music using ATH-M50s driven by a Little Dot  amp (and a Fiio for DAC), which were a nice upgrade when I got them, but now I'd like to try something different. 

Looking at closed-back to block out some background noise in the office (and to keep from over-sharing...).  I've tried the HD598s, which were really comfortable but were also quite transparent to background chatter.  I'm not a fan of headphones that accentuate upper ranges, as I find sibilance really annoying.  Also not looking for artificially boosted bass, from the headphones I've tried I tend to like a flatter response, it sounds more natural to my ears.

Any low- to mid-priced recommendations?

IEMS.  Never heard a closed-back headphone I liked.  The ViSang IEMs are nice.  I had a ViSang R02 that I got for $23 shipped that sounds equivalent to like $250 headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Fri, 03 October 2014, 08:01:54



NAD HP50
Focal Spirit One S
Focal Spirit Professional

All in the 200 - 300 range.

Wasn't a fan of the focal headphones but the HP50 is a beast for the price!
[/quote]

Thanks for the tips!  I've seen the Focal headphones but never had a chance to listen to them.  Looks like there's at least one retailer in the area that has them in stock.  I wasn't aware NAD made headphones, but I've been a fan of their hifi gear for years. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Fri, 03 October 2014, 08:04:28
I've been following this thread off and on for a while, wanted to see what people are recommending lately for close-back headphones?  I have the Mad Dogs at home, and I think they are superb for movies and gaming, but a bit bulky to schlep back and forth to work.  Currently at work I listen to music using ATH-M50s driven by a Little Dot  amp (and a Fiio for DAC), which were a nice upgrade when I got them, but now I'd like to try something different. 

Looking at closed-back to block out some background noise in the office (and to keep from over-sharing...).  I've tried the HD598s, which were really comfortable but were also quite transparent to background chatter.  I'm not a fan of headphones that accentuate upper ranges, as I find sibilance really annoying.  Also not looking for artificially boosted bass, from the headphones I've tried I tend to like a flatter response, it sounds more natural to my ears.

Any low- to mid-priced recommendations?

IEMS.  Never heard a closed-back headphone I liked.  The ViSang IEMs are nice.  I had a ViSang R02 that I got for $23 shipped that sounds equivalent to like $250 headphones.

I've tried various brands of noise-isolating IEMs, haven't found many that I liked.  But that's a price-point that's hard to pass up!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Fri, 03 October 2014, 20:40:09
Beyer DT990 600ohm, Creative Aurvana Live!, and Sennie HD600 are my primary sets for the time being. House fire took out my Beyer T90 and WooAudio WA7 Fireflies :(

Cannot speak highly enough about any of the 3 I still have though, hopefully in the future I can pick up a pair of Sennie HD800 and a proper amp to match it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 03 October 2014, 21:23:40
Beyer DT990 600ohm, Creative Aurvana Live!, and Sennie HD600 are my primary sets for the time being. House fire took out my Beyer T90 and WooAudio WA7 Fireflies :(

Cannot speak highly enough about any of the 3 I still have though, hopefully in the future I can pick up a pair of Sennie HD800 and a proper amp to match it.

Amp matching cvan be hard! Though my favorite setup with the HD800 was the ipod digital out to Cypher labs algorhythm solo (first version) with O2 amp and HD800.
The treble was splendid and extremely well extended. Sounded liquidy and golden while keeping the high resolution hd800 sound that they're known for.

Though I've never tried it with >2k amps (some of which I keep getting told work extremely well with the HD800)

Though lately I've been liking the TH900 a lot but I find they need a bit of EQ.

Anyway, good luck on the audio journey to finding what pleases you most!

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Fri, 03 October 2014, 22:29:36
Yea, I would have loved to have heard them on my WooAudio WA7 for testing, but from my research prior have pointed me to the Eddie Current Balancing Act, DNA Stratus, and of course the Liquid Glass.

Don't have the money atm to jump through another expensive pair of cans, much less another pricey amp. I kinda figured the $1,000 spent for the WA7 was going to be my "sweet spot" of where I was staying with amp.... But apparently the house wiring said no to that (unrelated to the amp :P )
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 03 October 2014, 23:18:23
Yea, I would have loved to have heard them on my WooAudio WA7 for testing, but from my research prior have pointed me to the Eddie Current Balancing Act, DNA Stratus, and of course the Liquid Glass.

Don't have the money atm to jump through another expensive pair of cans, much less another pricey amp. I kinda figured the $1,000 spent for the WA7 was going to be my "sweet spot" of where I was staying with amp.... But apparently the house wiring said no to that (unrelated to the amp :P )

Actually I very much detested the WA7 fireflies with almost everything I tried it with. It's very harsh in the treble ...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 03 October 2014, 23:48:03
Yea, I would have loved to have heard them on my WooAudio WA7 for testing, but from my research prior have pointed me to the Eddie Current Balancing Act, DNA Stratus, and of course the Liquid Glass.

Don't have the money atm to jump through another expensive pair of cans, much less another pricey amp. I kinda figured the $1,000 spent for the WA7 was going to be my "sweet spot" of where I was staying with amp.... But apparently the house wiring said no to that (unrelated to the amp :P )

Now you can get an oppo ha-1 instead.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Fri, 03 October 2014, 23:48:34
Yea, I would have loved to have heard them on my WooAudio WA7 for testing, but from my research prior have pointed me to the Eddie Current Balancing Act, DNA Stratus, and of course the Liquid Glass.

Don't have the money atm to jump through another expensive pair of cans, much less another pricey amp. I kinda figured the $1,000 spent for the WA7 was going to be my "sweet spot" of where I was staying with amp.... But apparently the house wiring said no to that (unrelated to the amp :P )

Actually I very much detested the WA7 fireflies with almost everything I tried it with. It's very harsh in the treble ...


They seemed to mate well with my Beyer T90's as a match made in heaven :P


Now you can get an oppo ha-1 instead.

We'll see how soon it is before I repurchase those T90's or wait further for the HD800's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pichu23 on Sat, 04 October 2014, 18:10:48
no love for the bose sound true over ears ? =(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Sat, 04 October 2014, 21:05:09
Just got my Yuin PK3 from massdrop. Especially for the price, they have pretty solid sound
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Matter on Mon, 06 October 2014, 06:02:23
You guys need to try the Earsonics S-EM6.

Its incredible!

Currently using it and have tried most if not all of Earsonics line and I can say this is the best to date with its clarity and 3d imaging wise.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 06 October 2014, 14:37:17
Started listening to my Se535s a lot since I have gotten them. Simply amazing!  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 06 October 2014, 17:01:16
Started listening to my Se535s a lot since I have gotten them. Simply amazing!  :p

All the sibilance though T.T

Though I'll admit those mids... Damn those mids. I still miss them

On the upside I'll hopefully be grabbing myself a pair of the to be released Noble K10 universal
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 06 October 2014, 17:15:50
Started listening to my Se535s a lot since I have gotten them. Simply amazing!  :p

All the sibilance though T.T

Though I'll admit those mids... Damn those mids. I still miss them

On the upside I'll hopefully be grabbing myself a pair of the to be released Noble K10 universal

Yeah the sibilance does catch me off guard sometimes.. But the mids and lows are amazing! (In my experience :P)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 06 October 2014, 18:09:13
Started listening to my Se535s a lot since I have gotten them. Simply amazing!  :p

All the sibilance though T.T

Though I'll admit those mids... Damn those mids. I still miss them

On the upside I'll hopefully be grabbing myself a pair of the to be released Noble K10 universal

Yeah the sibilance does catch me off guard sometimes.. But the mids and lows are amazing! (In my experience :P)

If it wasn't for the sibilance I'd still have a pair of 535s in my inventory. Unfortunately the next step up (where this is addressed as well as adding more extension to both ends) is the 846 at $900 which is triple the price.

Not to mention the 846 didn't fit well in my ears.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 06 October 2014, 19:03:47
Started listening to my Se535s a lot since I have gotten them. Simply amazing!  :p

All the sibilance though T.T

Though I'll admit those mids... Damn those mids. I still miss them

On the upside I'll hopefully be grabbing myself a pair of the to be released Noble K10 universal

Yeah the sibilance does catch me off guard sometimes.. But the mids and lows are amazing! (In my experience :P)

If it wasn't for the sibilance I'd still have a pair of 535s in my inventory. Unfortunately the next step up (where this is addressed as well as adding more extension to both ends) is the 846 at $900 which is triple the price.

Not to mention the 846 didn't fit well in my ears.

Yeah, the 535s weren't really on my radar, but I managed to grab them at a killer price. For what I want they will definitely do the trick! :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Wed, 08 October 2014, 15:42:49
no love for the bose sound true over ears ? =(

Only Bose that I've seen worth anything was the QC15. But I'd rather have a pair of CAL! or NVX XPT100 for less than half the cost.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Wed, 08 October 2014, 22:15:26
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 08 October 2014, 22:19:06
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)

woody, come up to harrisburg area and I'll give you a tour of some sweet cans. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Wed, 08 October 2014, 22:24:29
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)

woody, come up to harrisburg area and I'll give you a tour of some sweet cans. :)
The trek in search of high fidelity
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 08 October 2014, 22:33:35
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)

woody, come up to harrisburg area and I'll give you a tour of some sweet cans. :)
The trek in search of high fidelity

To boldly go where no other ears have gone. xD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Wed, 08 October 2014, 22:46:13
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)

woody, come up to harrisburg area and I'll give you a tour of some sweet cans. :)
The trek in search of high fidelity

To boldly go where no other ears have gone. xD
I might even buy a headphone amp, I'm feeling crazy :p. Just make sure to bring some sound stuff to keycon east so i can have another hobby to throw money at
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 08 October 2014, 23:20:30
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)

woody, come up to harrisburg area and I'll give you a tour of some sweet cans. :)
The trek in search of high fidelity

To boldly go where no other ears have gone. xD
I might even buy a headphone amp, I'm feeling crazy :p. Just make sure to bring some sound stuff to keycon east so i can have another hobby to throw money at

Money and keyboards go hand in hand!  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 08 October 2014, 23:21:15
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)

woody, come up to harrisburg area and I'll give you a tour of some sweet cans. :)
The trek in search of high fidelity

To boldly go where no other ears have gone. xD
I might even buy a headphone amp, I'm feeling crazy :p. Just make sure to bring some sound stuff to keycon east so i can have another hobby to throw money at

Money and keyboards go hand in hand!  :p

But you need to get open backed headphones otherwise you won't get the audible feedback!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 08 October 2014, 23:21:39
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)

woody, come up to harrisburg area and I'll give you a tour of some sweet cans. :)
The trek in search of high fidelity

To boldly go where no other ears have gone. xD
I might even buy a headphone amp, I'm feeling crazy :p. Just make sure to bring some sound stuff to keycon east so i can have another hobby to throw money at

Money and keyboards go hand in hand!  :p

But you need to get open backed headphones otherwise you won't get the audible feedback!

Don't you mean a variety of headphones??  ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 08 October 2014, 23:44:13
Bought some cheap af Yuin PK3 off massdrop, sound was fine but hated they weren't in ear, so i got in on the ostry KC06A drop. It may not seem like much to you guys, but those are probably the most expensive headphones I have (besides my Siberias :p)

woody, come up to harrisburg area and I'll give you a tour of some sweet cans. :)
The trek in search of high fidelity

To boldly go where no other ears have gone. xD
I might even buy a headphone amp, I'm feeling crazy :p. Just make sure to bring some sound stuff to keycon east so i can have another hobby to throw money at

Money and keyboards go hand in hand!  :p

But you need to get open backed headphones otherwise you won't get the audible feedback!

Don't you mean a variety of headphones??  ;)

True true. You need at least the Sony R10, Stax sr009 and HD800.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 09 October 2014, 00:12:46
What collection is complete without some Floats, right?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 09 October 2014, 00:38:16
What collection is complete without some Floats, right?

I need some more float in my life

(http://cdn.head-fi.org/8/89/900x900px-LL-8949927d_thefamousjecklinfloatpiqm2.jpg)

Who can say no to such sexiness
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 09 October 2014, 01:39:30
Just found this thread  ;D I am a regular over at headfi but would love to join the conversation here too! Anyone care to update me on current topics?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 09 October 2014, 02:10:43
The topic is really whatever you please! What kind of headphones do you have, and what you have bought recently are the main things I would say.

What do you listen through rk?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 09 October 2014, 05:51:58
Just found this thread  ;D I am a regular over at headfi but would love to join the conversation here too! Anyone care to update me on current topics?

The topic right now is about what are must have headphones in an almost budget less collection?

We're saying the jecklin floats pictures above
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 09 October 2014, 11:15:45
The topic is really whatever you please! What kind of headphones do you have, and what you have bought recently are the main things I would say.

What do you listen through rk?

Well currently I have the HD598s and the beyer T90s. I actually recently sold my odac, vali, asgard 2, and sys preamp to buy the centrance dacmini on massdrop. I am still waiting for it in the mail though.. Previously though I also had the DT770s and am currently looking for a new closed back headphone  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Thu, 09 October 2014, 11:35:34
Would anone here recommend the Grado SR80e?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 09 October 2014, 11:42:08
I have the grado sr80i and if they're anything like the e,  I'd be into them
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 09 October 2014, 12:42:44
Would anone here recommend the Grado SR80e?
Love&hate thing. Try some grados first to get some idea about the signature; I like them for certain genres like death metal. Beware that comfort is awful for most people though. L-cushion ear pads and beyerish cushion headband wrap help tremendously. Also, I consider detacheable cable mod pretty much necessary, because cans rotate freely and tend to twist the cable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 09 October 2014, 13:15:34
Would anone here recommend the Grado SR80e?

I am not a big fan of my Grado 80s, I modded them a bit and improved the sound, but the overall signatures is very high, and they are extremely uncomfortable. After moving on to my DT990s, I have never worn them again!  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 09 October 2014, 14:20:20
Would anone here recommend the Grado SR80e?

Dey a'iight for rock/metal.  IF you're ok with an on-ear headphone, like rock/metal more than anything else and can risk discomfort, get them.  They're inexpensive and resell well.

If no to any of those, look at something like the ath-m50, creative aurvana live! or t50rp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 09 October 2014, 16:16:07
Would anone here recommend the Grado SR80e?

Dey a'iight for rock/metal.  IF you're ok with an on-ear headphone, like rock/metal more than anything else and can risk discomfort, get them.  They're inexpensive and resell well.

If no to any of those, look at something like the ath-m50, creative aurvana live! or t50rp.

T50rp requires mods (though with mods you can get some really solid results and through mods have it more tuned to your tastes) =[

Koss KSC75 is an amazing piece and I can't believe they don't use these drivers for other things.

Grado is love and hate as stated above. Very unique signature which tends to emphasize a lot of frequencies around rock so they come alive more. I'm generally okay with the grado sound for lower end especially but they're uncomfortable for me.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Thu, 09 October 2014, 16:50:51
Also looking at the DT 990's, but one of the comm on things I saw in reviews was a bit needing the right amp?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 09 October 2014, 16:55:04
Also looking at the DT 990's, but one of the comm on things I saw in reviews was a bit needing the right amp?

Depends on which version you get.  What's the budget you're wanting to be in?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 09 October 2014, 17:05:04
Also looking at the DT 990's, but one of the comm on things I saw in reviews was a bit needing the right amp?
It depends on what version you'd get. I have the vintage 600Ω (modern DT880 is based on it) and it's obviously very different from the modern 32Ω.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Thu, 09 October 2014, 17:23:49
Also looking at the DT 990's, but one of the comm on things I saw in reviews was a bit needing the right amp?

Depends on which version you get.  What's the budget you're wanting to be in?
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DT990Pro?adpos=1o1&creative=55678058761&device=t&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=CjwKEAjw5NihBRCZmdLkuuTHyWYSJACtCY0J_1zdKRfAS3KIyQll3-T1EtkAJi6KwktbT1u2JnXUfxoCRxDw_wcB
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 09 October 2014, 19:42:35
If you're willing to spend up to $250, look at the focal spirit professional/classic, nad hp50, akg k545/550 and hd558, too.

Also, if it's what you like the sound of, you could find hd600/650 used in that range, too. 

I guess you're looking specifically for open headphones?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Thu, 09 October 2014, 20:26:37
If you're willing to spend up to $250, look at the focal spirit professional/classic, nad hp50, akg k545/550 and hd558, too.

Also, if it's what you like the sound of, you could find hd600/650 used in that range, too. 

I guess you're looking specifically for open headphones?
well, at this point I'm just kinda looking around at a bunch of different headphones. My price range is around the low $200s. Since I'm gonna be using them home mostly, noise isolation isn't really important for me so yeah open would be best. I mostly listen to metal, which leads me to grados, but I also listen to a little rap and electronic. Also could use some recommendations on amps. I was looking at these: https://www.massdrop.com/buy/musiland-monitor-02us-dragon-dac-amp?s=amp
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 09 October 2014, 20:35:11
If you're willing to spend up to $250, look at the focal spirit professional/classic, nad hp50, akg k545/550 and hd558, too.

Also, if it's what you like the sound of, you could find hd600/650 used in that range, too. 

I guess you're looking specifically for open headphones?
well, at this point I'm just kinda looking around at a bunch of different headphones. My price range is around the low $200s. Since I'm gonna be using them home mostly, noise isolation isn't really important for me so yeah open would be best. I mostly listen to metal, which leads me to grados, but I also listen to a little rap and electronic. Also could use some recommendations on amps. I was looking at these: https://www.massdrop.com/buy/musiland-monitor-02us-dragon-dac-amp?s=amp


You might like a modded pair of t50rp, then.  I have a pair I'm thinking about selling if you want to hear more about them.  I have a pair of modded k712pro, too, but I don't think they're the best with rock/rap/electronic
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 09 October 2014, 20:36:04
I highly recommend the Schiit Magni and Vali in terms of amps hwood34.



(http://i.imgur.com/vkhuUB6.jpg)

I know it's a potato but I'm fairly sure my new audio setup is doing it right.

Sony Walkman -> Fiio e06 -> JHAudio JH5 CIEMs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 09 October 2014, 20:45:09
(http://i.imgur.com/S4W082v.jpg)

rip in peace

(http://i.imgur.com/XzNQd8b.jpg)

and a recording set up for fun

fact: googly eyes add to the fidelity of the interface
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Thu, 09 October 2014, 20:59:08
Also looking at the DT 990's, but one of the comm on things I saw in reviews was a bit needing the right amp?

DT990's are some of my favorites, especially for gaming/allaround pc use :)

You just have to understand that the highs can be a bit harsh for some people, I say some loosely though.

I've mated the 990 600ohm with Schiit Magni/Modi stack without issue which brought them out a bit compared to the amp on the sound card. I really enjoyed them when testing with the WooAudio WA7 as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Fri, 10 October 2014, 07:10:35
Hi guys, hopefully someone can give me some help as you lot seem to be massively into your audio setups!

I have some Sennheiser HD555's and PC350SE's that I use (mainly the PC350SE's as I am generally gaming a lot). Would an amp/DAC be something I should think about buying to get the most out of these cans or is it not really going to make a vast difference?

I would like to enhance my audio experience but if a dac/amp isn't going to really do much, then I guess new higher end cans is where I should be looking to invest?

Cheers in advance :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 10 October 2014, 09:44:10
With the headphones you are using you would benefit from an amp and dac but I would say only slightly but either way in most cases a separate external amp and dac will help.

What amp/dac you pair your headphones with does matter since some combos just work well with each other, which could help with things like clarity and soundstage.

But my suggestion would be to research and amp/dac combo that could work for a lot of headphones so that when you upgrade(if you ever do) you will be able to enhance your experience.

I mean it also depends on how much you are trying to spend.

Something like the Schiit stack and the o2 combo are good starting points both being around $200-$250 new.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Fri, 10 October 2014, 20:05:58
Hi guys, hopefully someone can give me some help as you lot seem to be massively into your audio setups!

I have some Sennheiser HD555's and PC350SE's that I use (mainly the PC350SE's as I am generally gaming a lot). Would an amp/DAC be something I should think about buying to get the most out of these cans or is it not really going to make a vast difference?

I would like to enhance my audio experience but if a dac/amp isn't going to really do much, then I guess new higher end cans is where I should be looking to invest?

Cheers in advance :)

Both will see a boost yes, but your HD555's will see a very very minimal.... Whereas your PC350's use the HD595 drivers and will offer a better experience when amped. If you are interested in going with higher end anyway, what you can do is go ahead and purchase a good amp/dac and if you want MORE than just what your PC350 can provide, simply buy a better set of cans to pair with the amp you bought ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Fri, 17 October 2014, 08:17:59
I think I broke my headphone plug :( At least I hope that's what broke.
I have a pair of Qpad QH-85s and yesterday I accidentally yanked my headphone cable out and after that the sound has been really weird.
The mids and lows are mostly fine but the bass is completely gone.

I don't want to buy new ones so I think I'll try to fix the cord/jack (if that's whats causing it).
If it's not the plug then do you guys know what it could be? I opened up the headphones but everything seemed to be fine inside.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Fri, 17 October 2014, 08:53:06
I think I broke my headphone plug :( At least I hope that's what broke.
I have a pair of Qpad QH-85s and yesterday I accidentally yanked my headphone cable out and after that the sound has been really weird.
The mids and lows are mostly fine but the bass is completely gone.

I don't want to buy new ones so I think I'll try to fix the cord/jack (if that's whats causing it).
If it's not the plug then do you guys know what it could be? I opened up the headphones but everything seemed to be fine inside.

I think the problem is either the cord  or the connector. Does it change when you move the cable?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 20 October 2014, 09:38:43
Just ordered some replacement velour pads for my dt770s. The $30 was kinda tough to do but when you consider I have around 1000-1500 hours use on these in just a year the replacements were long overdue. I went with a set of black velour instead of the silver.

I LOVE the look of the silver velour but mine have just gotten so dull looking and they are now more of a brown/bronze color than silver now. They are also really flat and deformed as well, they don't seal to my head very well anymore.

I don't think I could ever replace these headphones, they sound great for what I like and you could probably wear them for days straight and not even notice they are there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Mon, 20 October 2014, 09:55:59
I just bought a pair of Blaupunkt BPA-402NCs. Loving the noise cancelling, but what I loved most was that I got them at 2/3rds the retail price (gotta love Microcenter's price matching). They also come with detachable cables (3.5mm jacks) and it has two. One regular, and one with an inline mic.

I had a pair of Creative Aurvana Live! headphones (which I adored, as they were perfect and perfectly affordable for my favorite types of music), but they broke. :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 20 October 2014, 11:58:37
Just ordered some replacement velour pads for my dt770s. The $30 was kinda tough to do but when you consider I have around 1000-1500 hours use on these in just a year the replacements were long overdue. I went with a set of black velour instead of the silver.

I LOVE the look of the silver velour but mine have just gotten so dull looking and they are now more of a brown/bronze color than silver now. They are also really flat and deformed as well, they don't seal to my head very well anymore.

I don't think I could ever replace these headphones, they sound great for what I like and you could probably wear them for days straight and not even notice they are there.

Nice, where did you order them from? Now that I think about it, I should look into getting some new velour pads for my 990s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 20 October 2014, 13:14:49
Just ordered some replacement velour pads for my dt770s. The $30 was kinda tough to do but when you consider I have around 1000-1500 hours use on these in just a year the replacements were long overdue. I went with a set of black velour instead of the silver.

I LOVE the look of the silver velour but mine have just gotten so dull looking and they are now more of a brown/bronze color than silver now. They are also really flat and deformed as well, they don't seal to my head very well anymore.

I don't think I could ever replace these headphones, they sound great for what I like and you could probably wear them for days straight and not even notice they are there.

Nice, where did you order them from? Now that I think about it, I should look into getting some new velour pads for my 990s.
I got em off amazon, I will take some pictures of them when they show up wednesday. (As well as the super old ones lel, they are super disgusting)

I will also give the headphones a thorough cleaning as they are kinda disgusting as well.

I think they were $5 off compared to the silver ones so that was just a bonus.

I might try to fix up the old pads but I heard you just cannot wash/clean velour.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 20 October 2014, 14:48:17
Just ordered some replacement velour pads for my dt770s. The $30 was kinda tough to do but when you consider I have around 1000-1500 hours use on these in just a year the replacements were long overdue. I went with a set of black velour instead of the silver.

I LOVE the look of the silver velour but mine have just gotten so dull looking and they are now more of a brown/bronze color than silver now. They are also really flat and deformed as well, they don't seal to my head very well anymore.

I don't think I could ever replace these headphones, they sound great for what I like and you could probably wear them for days straight and not even notice they are there.

Nice, where did you order them from? Now that I think about it, I should look into getting some new velour pads for my 990s.
I got em off amazon, I will take some pictures of them when they show up wednesday. (As well as the super old ones lel, they are super disgusting)

I will also give the headphones a thorough cleaning as they are kinda disgusting as well.

I think they were $5 off compared to the silver ones so that was just a bonus.

I might try to fix up the old pads but I heard you just cannot wash/clean velour.

Sounds good, I don't think I have seen the black velour ones before!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: a_ak57 on Mon, 20 October 2014, 20:42:32
I've kinda been out of the headphone loop for a bit, what's all the rage these days?  Last time I paid attention it seemed the HP100s were the in-thing and there were some 3D-printed headphones from MrSpeakers that people were excited about.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 20 October 2014, 21:16:49
People are still excited about Alpha Dogs and he just released a new version that costs $1000.  Also, there's the he400i and he560 from hifiman, the oppo pm1/2/3 and ha-1/2, the sony mdr-z7 and I'm sure other things I'm forgetting.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 20 October 2014, 22:14:26
Pretty much enamoured with my HE-560s still.  :cool:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: a_ak57 on Mon, 20 October 2014, 22:19:13
You know, I'm actually rather glad I never committed to the audiophile thing and topped out at buying stuff like the Mad Dogs (have one of the earlier alpha pad versions).  I'd be in a world of hurt if I actually dove into the $500-1000+ stuff given how prone I am to wanting to try stuff out and how reluctant I am to sell. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 21 October 2014, 01:00:34
You know, I'm actually rather glad I never committed to the audiophile thing and topped out at buying stuff like the Mad Dogs (have one of the earlier alpha pad versions).  I'd be in a world of hurt if I actually dove into the $500-1000+ stuff given how prone I am to wanting to try stuff out and how reluctant I am to sell.

Ah, luckily I have no problem selling xD

I go through $1000 headphones like candy

I owned the Alpha Dogs less than a month.

HE6 for less than 2 weeks.

Etc
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Tue, 21 October 2014, 13:43:02
Pretty much enamoured with my HE-560s still.  :cool:
I looked up the price on Amazon  :eek: :eek: I bet they sound amazing!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 21 October 2014, 13:46:58
Just got my impressions done =0

Gotta send them to Noble =]

Wondering if the wizard design is worthwhile =S
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 21 October 2014, 15:06:57
Just got my impressions done =0

Gotta send them to Noble =]

Wondering if the wizard design is worthwhile =S

I think binge thinks so.  Their CS is better than any of the others I've dealt with, though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 21 October 2014, 15:20:49
Just got my impressions done =0

Gotta send them to Noble =]

Wondering if the wizard design is worthwhile =S

I think binge thinks so.  Their CS is better than any of the others I've dealt with, though.

I actually talked to him about that last night =S

He told me that he ended up not caring so much about the artwork done because he completely forgets about them after he puts them in his ears =S (Or something of that nature)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 21 October 2014, 16:03:43
Just got my impressions done =0

Gotta send them to Noble =]

Wondering if the wizard design is worthwhile =S

I think binge thinks so.  Their CS is better than any of the others I've dealt with, though.

I actually talked to him about that last night =S

He told me that he ended up not caring so much about the artwork done because he completely forgets about them after he puts them in his ears =S (Or something of that nature)


Tis true!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 21 October 2014, 16:15:42
Just got my impressions done =0

Gotta send them to Noble =]

Wondering if the wizard design is worthwhile =S

I think binge thinks so.  Their CS is better than any of the others I've dealt with, though.

I actually talked to him about that last night =S

He told me that he ended up not caring so much about the artwork done because he completely forgets about them after he puts them in his ears =S (Or something of that nature)


Tis true!

That was the main thing that I was worried about mostly because it's a completely lost investment along with the remolding costs and impressions and shipping. There's no way to ever get that money back because the next owner would have to buy the artwork again. (And someone can just pay for the reprint flatout)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 21 October 2014, 16:18:04
Just got my impressions done =0

Gotta send them to Noble =]

Wondering if the wizard design is worthwhile =S

I think binge thinks so.  Their CS is better than any of the others I've dealt with, though.

I actually talked to him about that last night =S

He told me that he ended up not caring so much about the artwork done because he completely forgets about them after he puts them in his ears =S (Or something of that nature)


Tis true!

That was the main thing that I was worried about mostly because it's a completely lost investment along with the remolding costs and impressions and shipping. There's no way to ever get that money back because the next owner would have to buy the artwork again. (And someone can just pay for the reprint flatout)



You wouldn't be wrong man.  I intend to keep these for life.  They will not go 2nd hand.  I still miss the money it cost for the design.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 21 October 2014, 16:33:14
Just got my impressions done =0

Gotta send them to Noble =]

Wondering if the wizard design is worthwhile =S

I think binge thinks so.  Their CS is better than any of the others I've dealt with, though.

I actually talked to him about that last night =S

He told me that he ended up not caring so much about the artwork done because he completely forgets about them after he puts them in his ears =S (Or something of that nature)


Tis true!

That was the main thing that I was worried about mostly because it's a completely lost investment along with the remolding costs and impressions and shipping. There's no way to ever get that money back because the next owner would have to buy the artwork again. (And someone can just pay for the reprint flatout)



You wouldn't be wrong man.  I intend to keep these for life.  They will not go 2nd hand.  I still miss the money it cost for the design.

Yea... $400 is a GoN keyboard which is quite a bit in this hobby xD

OR a few nice fountain pens....

Or even an upgrade from my AK120 to the AK120mk2
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 21 October 2014, 16:33:48
Yea... $400 is a GoN keyboard which is quite a bit in this hobby xD

OR a few nice fountain pens....

Or even an upgrade from my AK120 to the AK120mk2

Half a mortgage payment etc etc
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Wed, 22 October 2014, 01:23:44
I just bought a pair of Blaupunkt BPA-402NCs. Loving the noise cancelling, but what I loved most was that I got them at 2/3rds the retail price (gotta love Microcenter's price matching). They also come with detachable cables (3.5mm jacks) and it has two. One regular, and one with an inline mic.

I had a pair of Creative Aurvana Live! headphones (which I adored, as they were perfect and perfectly affordable for my favorite types of music), but they broke. :(

Update: After listening to music on these headphones for a day, I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that these things suck donkey balls. My $15 ear buds are better quality. The lows and mids drown out the highs to the point where it isn't even audible.

0/10 Would NOT recommend.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Wed, 22 October 2014, 16:41:07
Finally, new earpads. Not sure what to say, bass seems a bit better. The old ones were so flat and compressed I guess that had something to do with it.

(http://i.imgur.com/8QC3ztZ.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/46dGQRe.jpg)

Really liking the black, would have been pretty cool if they could have made the black ones have that sort of metallic look the silver ones have.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Thu, 23 October 2014, 05:42:13
Finally, new earpads. Not sure what to say, bass seems a bit better. The old ones were so flat and compressed I guess that had something to do with it.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8QC3ztZ.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/46dGQRe.jpg)


Really liking the black, would have been pretty cool if they could have made the black ones have that sort of metallic look the silver ones have.

Beatiful pictures. How long have you had them? They look beatiful. Mine (I dont use them now) have almost no paint on the label left.

I do think that the bass is better because of how well the new one seals around your ear compared to the old one. That have a big effect on the bass.  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 23 October 2014, 06:02:01
Why would the paint go off? My DT990s are *23-year-old* (yes, I'm not kidding) and look like new except cushion.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Thu, 23 October 2014, 06:36:19
Why would the paint go off? My DT990s are *23-year-old* (yes, I'm not kidding) and look like new except cushion.

well at my oldest dt770 its almost no paint (8 years). Just regular wear.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Thu, 23 October 2014, 10:01:47
The paint is coming off just a bit in some places, but nothing crazy. I have had them for a little over a year now I think.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 27 October 2014, 07:29:44
[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Mon, 27 October 2014, 07:58:07
(Attachment Link)
Hahahahaha, so funny  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: azhdar on Mon, 27 October 2014, 08:19:46
Considering buying an audio technica ath-m50 , but my library is only mp3 and it will be used without an AMP or onto my ipod .
It would be wasting money right ? (using a siberia for the moment ) .
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Mon, 27 October 2014, 08:46:15
Considering buying an audio technica ath-m50 , but my library is only mp3 and it will be used without an AMP or onto my ipod .
It would be wasting money right ? (using a siberia for the moment ) .

My opinion, but for that price you could just grab a pair of NVX XPT100 or Creative Aurvana Live!, which IMO offer more for the price than M50's (IMO overhyped, but their build quality is like a tank). They do not need an amp though, so just fine for mobile listening :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 27 October 2014, 10:24:15
Considering buying an audio technica ath-m50 , but my library is only mp3 and it will be used without an AMP or onto my ipod .
It would be wasting money right ? (using a siberia for the moment ) .

M50s are in a weird spot right now

They're decent for the price but there are definitely other options to consider. They're not those end game headphones that a lot of headfier put them out to be
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: azhdar on Mon, 27 October 2014, 10:28:03
Any recommendation for a 150-200$ that wouldn't need AMP ?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 27 October 2014, 10:54:30
Any recommendation for a 150-200$ that wouldn't need AMP ?

NVX XPT100
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Mon, 27 October 2014, 11:27:54
anyone here have both ad700 and hd598's and play fps games?
 I have the ad700's and am wondering if the hd598's have comparable soundstage.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 27 October 2014, 11:29:13
anyone here have both ad700 and hd598's and play fps games?
 I have the ad700's and am wondering if the hd598's have comparable soundstage.

Had a friend with the ad700's and they were pretty good but I felt like the HD598's (the pair I own), slightly edged them out. I don't think you could go wrong with either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 27 October 2014, 11:41:23
Any recommendation for a 150-200$ that wouldn't need AMP ?

Open or closed? Beyerdynamic DT770 or 990s, 80 ohm.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 27 October 2014, 12:32:47
Any recommendation for a 150-200$ that wouldn't need AMP ?

Open or closed? Beyerdynamic DT770 or 990s, 80 ohm.

Well seeing as it is for mobile applications probably closed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 27 October 2014, 13:27:04
I don't really think the dt770 is meant to be a mobile oriented device, even if you get the 32 ohms lol (They are rather large)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 27 October 2014, 13:29:47
I don't really think the dt770 is meant to be a mobile oriented device, even if you get the 32 ohms lol (They are rather large)

True but people do it anyway
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 27 October 2014, 20:15:08
I don't really think the dt770 is meant to be a mobile oriented device, even if you get the 32 ohms lol (They are rather large)

True but people do it anyway

For mobile?  I'd seriously consider the vmoda XS or crossfade m-80
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 27 October 2014, 21:07:41
Any recommendation for a 150-200$ that wouldn't need AMP ?

Open or closed? Beyerdynamic DT770 or 990s, 80 ohm.

Well seeing as it is for mobile applications probably closed.

Didn't see the mobile application listed anywhere, if so, I would still recommend the 32ohm 770s if you have a large head and want something comfortable, and can put up with having a larger headphone.

For smaller, I would prefer iems myself, or something like the vmoda XS like binge said.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Mon, 27 October 2014, 21:22:39
anyone here have both ad700 and hd598's and play fps games?
 I have the ad700's and am wondering if the hd598's have comparable soundstage.

Had a friend with the ad700's and they were pretty good but I felt like the HD598's (the pair I own), slightly edged them out. I don't think you could go wrong with either.

I already have the ad700's and was curious if the soundstage on the hd598's is comparable as the ad700's are not very comfy on my head.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 27 October 2014, 21:25:15
anyone here have both ad700 and hd598's and play fps games?
 I have the ad700's and am wondering if the hd598's have comparable soundstage.

Had a friend with the ad700's and they were pretty good but I felt like the HD598's (the pair I own), slightly edged them out. I don't think you could go wrong with either.

I already have the ad700's and was curious if the soundstage on the hd598's is comparable as the ad700's are not very comfy on my head.

I would say they are on par or better. But if the AD700 are uncomfortable then the HD598s should be a huge step up in comfort!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: azhdar on Tue, 28 October 2014, 02:30:03
Thank you for the recommendation I'll look into what you suggested :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Tue, 28 October 2014, 06:51:20
Hi guys, hopefully someone can give me some help as you lot seem to be massively into your audio setups!

I have some Sennheiser HD555's and PC350SE's that I use (mainly the PC350SE's as I am generally gaming a lot). Would an amp/DAC be something I should think about buying to get the most out of these cans or is it not really going to make a vast difference?

I would like to enhance my audio experience but if a dac/amp isn't going to really do much, then I guess new higher end cans is where I should be looking to invest?

Cheers in advance :)

Thanks for the advice!

What I have decided to do is order an Epiphany Acoustics EHP-O2Di, I will use my HD555's (with 595 mod) along with my PC350SE's and see if I noticed much difference initially. I then intend on purchasing a much nicer set of cans, I have yet to work out what price range I am prepared to go up to. I was thinking maybe some HD650's or something, I however would like some suggestions for other "decent" cans.

I can't think of anywhere near to me that sells decent headphones in abundance to be able to go and listen to them and see what I prefer, so I will have to go purely off reviews and recommendations.

Is there any particular headphones that pair really well with the EHP-O2Di? I can pick up a pair of HD650's for about £250 on Amazon UK which seems pretty cheap. I have always liked brands like Grado and Beyerdynamic. Any of you guys with superior knowledge please help a newbie out! I am not ready for spending thousands upon thousands for an audio solution but I would like to attempt a decent bang for buck scenario. Thanks

Both will see a boost yes, but your HD555's will see a very very minimal.... Whereas your PC350's use the HD595 drivers and will offer a better experience when amped. If you are interested in going with higher end anyway, what you can do is go ahead and purchase a good amp/dac and if you want MORE than just what your PC350 can provide, simply buy a better set of cans to pair with the amp you bought ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 28 October 2014, 08:24:39
Off topic but would be really helpful to get some responses:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TMS6DQ9

Survey Regarding differences between audiophile and celebrity headphones for a short class presentation.
Thanks to any people that fill it out!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 28 October 2014, 09:57:21
Off topic but would be really helpful to get some responses:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TMS6DQ9

Survey Regarding differences between audiophile and celebrity headphones for a short class presentation.
Thanks to any people that fill it out!

This thing is waaayyy too broad, and frankly I don't know of any prominent celebrity branded headphones under $100.  In every category I could pick an "audiophile" headphone that is not celebrity branded that is great and fun to listen to.  Sorry mate I can't completely fill it out :-/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 28 October 2014, 10:05:59
Off topic but would be really helpful to get some responses:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TMS6DQ9

Survey Regarding differences between audiophile and celebrity headphones for a short class presentation.
Thanks to any people that fill it out!

This thing is waaayyy too broad, and frankly I don't know of any prominent celebrity branded headphones under $100.  In every category I could pick an "audiophile" headphone that is not celebrity branded that is great and fun to listen to.  Sorry mate I can't completely fill it out :-/

Thanks
I'll look over it in about an hour to simplify it and narrow it down
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 28 October 2014, 10:19:30
Off topic but would be really helpful to get some responses:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TMS6DQ9

Survey Regarding differences between audiophile and celebrity headphones for a short class presentation.
Thanks to any people that fill it out!

This thing is waaayyy too broad, and frankly I don't know of any prominent celebrity branded headphones under $100.  In every category I could pick an "audiophile" headphone that is not celebrity branded that is great and fun to listen to.  Sorry mate I can't completely fill it out :-/

Thanks
I'll look over it in about an hour to simplify it and narrow it down

I was a bit rushed doing other things while trying to complete the survey so I also got a little flustered about that.  I feel like I know why you didn't list any celebrity headphones to represent a category and that is to prevent biased opinions and get answers from people who have actually listened to these headphones.  I just don't feel like celebrity branded headphones fit into each price category, or that they are well known enough for regulars or audiophiles to have had experience with these brands.

For instance... I know Beats, that 50 Cent brand, and the Q701 off the top of my head.  I've owned the 701s and when I'm in a mall/store there are lots of beats displays, but I've never seen the others displayed in big box/electronic stores for demo use.  Even when I'm seeing the Beats I'm not seeing the new version of the headphone... there's always the old version on display, and half the time they're cracked/broken.  PA hates music?  I dunno hahaha.

Food for thought this is a tough survey.  Maybe ask what people feel about celebrity branding on products?  Like say, "Think of three headphones you've heard one from the $0-100, $100-200, and $200-300 dollar price range.  If you were given the option to buy them how likely is it that you'd buy them if you had the income?  If those same headphones were celebrity branded by Lil Wayne what is the likelihood you would buy them?  Alright how about if they were endorsed by David Bowie?  Great.  Now what if the headphone was endorsed by Tim McGraw?"

That could be against the grain of what you were considering-- but to me that would get some more honest/"informed" answers out of people.  You know people informed that they like an endorsement from David Bowie over Tim McGraw. lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 28 October 2014, 18:23:44
Off topic but would be really helpful to get some responses:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TMS6DQ9

Survey Regarding differences between audiophile and celebrity headphones for a short class presentation.
Thanks to any people that fill it out!

This thing is waaayyy too broad, and frankly I don't know of any prominent celebrity branded headphones under $100.  In every category I could pick an "audiophile" headphone that is not celebrity branded that is great and fun to listen to.  Sorry mate I can't completely fill it out :-/

Thanks
I'll look over it in about an hour to simplify it and narrow it down

I was a bit rushed doing other things while trying to complete the survey so I also got a little flustered about that.  I feel like I know why you didn't list any celebrity headphones to represent a category and that is to prevent biased opinions and get answers from people who have actually listened to these headphones.  I just don't feel like celebrity branded headphones fit into each price category, or that they are well known enough for regulars or audiophiles to have had experience with these brands.

For instance... I know Beats, that 50 Cent brand, and the Q701 off the top of my head.  I've owned the 701s and when I'm in a mall/store there are lots of beats displays, but I've never seen the others displayed in big box/electronic stores for demo use.  Even when I'm seeing the Beats I'm not seeing the new version of the headphone... there's always the old version on display, and half the time they're cracked/broken.  PA hates music?  I dunno hahaha.

Food for thought this is a tough survey.  Maybe ask what people feel about celebrity branding on products?  Like say, "Think of three headphones you've heard one from the $0-100, $100-200, and $200-300 dollar price range.  If you were given the option to buy them how likely is it that you'd buy them if you had the income?  If those same headphones were celebrity branded by Lil Wayne what is the likelihood you would buy them?  Alright how about if they were endorsed by David Bowie?  Great.  Now what if the headphone was endorsed by Tim McGraw?"

That could be against the grain of what you were considering-- but to me that would get some more honest/"informed" answers out of people.  You know people informed that they like an endorsement from David Bowie over Tim McGraw. lol

thanks for your input

I just made quick changes to my current survey to remove the lower categories: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ZFB9BQD

My main issues were that if I didn't make it broader with the various categories the data would be harder to compare ( possible) and that having the requirements of knowledge of multiple audiophile headphones in those price brackets would suggest that the user is relatively experienced.

On the other hand it does really make for a long survey to have those 6 categories so I just dropped it down to two categories (sub $300 audiophile and celebrity headphones)

I'm not really testing peoples' willingness to buy celebrity headphones which is why I didn't ask if they would still buy something if it was celebrity branded instead.

The presentation is more of a "present the facts about the quality of celebrity headphones with respect to audiophile headphones"

I was hoping to get a numerical value (even if it's not a standard measure of any sort)

I'm actually trying to avoid the issue of "well they're branded by X artist so I will or will not buy the headphones" and the issue of cosmestics

Hope this clarifies my choices in writing the survey! =) As always thanks for the input
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Thu, 30 October 2014, 11:25:51
Okay, so based on what I've been reading so far, a pair of DT-770's would be ideal for listening to classical/jazz, especially when coupled with an amplifier, correct?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 October 2014, 12:50:19
Okay, so based on what I've been reading so far, a pair of DT-770's would be ideal for listening to classical/jazz, especially when coupled with an amplifier, correct?

I wouldn't say ideal :-/

::EDIT:: to be more clear ideals are often shaded by what one considers to be the "best".  I do not belong to the camp that believes a headphone "tuned" for specific frequency ranges and instruments is idea for anything except live performances/studio where they would be used as a monitor for a specific instrument.  These headphones are best used for listening to monitors and not recordings.  A nice, flat, headphone which is adequately powered will allow you to listen to the mastering as intended.  So if the master was bad, it'll sound bad.  If there's distortion that the artist intended you'll hear the distortion.  Likewise when there are great and wonderful events in music that span the spectrum of frequency one is put into awe at how brilliantly it came together and can listen to the same passage over and over again and focus on a different nuance of the recording.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 30 October 2014, 13:47:03
Okay, so based on what I've been reading so far, a pair of DT-770's would be ideal for listening to classical/jazz, especially when coupled with an amplifier, correct?

I wouldn't say ideal :-/

::EDIT:: to be more clear ideals are often shaded by what one considers to be the "best".  I do not belong to the camp that believes a headphone "tuned" for specific frequency ranges and instruments is idea for anything except live performances/studio where they would be used as a monitor for a specific instrument.  These headphones are best used for listening to monitors and not recordings.  A nice, flat, headphone which is adequately powered will allow you to listen to the mastering as intended.  So if the master was bad, it'll sound bad.  If there's distortion that the artist intended you'll hear the distortion.  Likewise when there are great and wonderful events in music that span the spectrum of frequency one is put into awe at how brilliantly it came together and can listen to the same passage over and over again and focus on a different nuance of the recording.

+1

Hoping the Noble K10 will do exactly this for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LechnerDE on Thu, 30 October 2014, 15:10:21
Edit:    sorry wrong thread :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 30 October 2014, 15:11:03
Got some stuff from CTRL ALT today (potato alert!)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/HIuZpq5.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/hfX6GkG.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/NViRIsc.jpg)



and some dyesubs from Kmiller's first dyesub GB

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/aiAWqlo.jpg)


Wrong thread?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Thu, 30 October 2014, 15:27:14
Okay, so based on what I've been reading so far, a pair of DT-770's would be ideal for listening to classical/jazz, especially when coupled with an amplifier, correct?

I wouldn't say ideal :-/

::EDIT:: to be more clear ideals are often shaded by what one considers to be the "best".  I do not belong to the camp that believes a headphone "tuned" for specific frequency ranges and instruments is idea for anything except live performances/studio where they would be used as a monitor for a specific instrument.  These headphones are best used for listening to monitors and not recordings.  A nice, flat, headphone which is adequately powered will allow you to listen to the mastering as intended.  So if the master was bad, it'll sound bad.  If there's distortion that the artist intended you'll hear the distortion.  Likewise when there are great and wonderful events in music that span the spectrum of frequency one is put into awe at how brilliantly it came together and can listen to the same passage over and over again and focus on a different nuance of the recording.

While I agree with what you've said, this does not, in any way, address the question, nor does it take into account ****ty headphones, like the Blaupunkts I wasted $130 on.

It's like me asking "What is 2+2?" and you replying with "Rainbow Trout."
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 October 2014, 15:39:33
You asked if DT770 would be ideal for listening to classical/jazz.

My effective answer is no and I'm not sure where you missed that.

I've never responded to your "what is 2+2" oversimplification with "rainbow trout".  I told you the answer.  Someone may recommend it.  I would not and I'm sure a number of other people would not had they the energy to state the obvious.  This and most other headphones can not be considered unilaterally ideal for any given genre.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Thu, 30 October 2014, 23:49:38
If classical and jazz are your thing, look at Sennheiser's offerings. If a more portable headphone is your forte, check out the Sennheiser Momentum.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 31 October 2014, 00:23:18
If classical and jazz are your thing, look at Sennheiser's offerings. If a more portable headphone is your forte, check out the Sennheiser Momentum.

I found the over ear momentums to be slightly V Shaped so I'm not sure they would be best suited to those genres but again it's up to the buyer to decide
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jbondeson on Fri, 31 October 2014, 11:27:46
I've had my Sennheiser HD590s for about a decade now and I've loved them. Easily the most comfortable cans I've ever worn, and they're able to be effectively driven without an amp so you can use them with anything.

The connection to the can is starting to go bad so I'm either going to have to open them up and diagnose or get a new pair.

Too bad they discontinued them  :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Fri, 31 October 2014, 12:50:05
If classical and jazz are your thing, look at Sennheiser's offerings. If a more portable headphone is your forte, check out the Sennheiser Momentum.

I found the over ear momentums to be slightly V Shaped so I'm not sure they would be best suited to those genres but again it's up to the buyer to decide

I have neither the will nor the funds to purchase several different pairs of headphones just to decide which pair I like. This is why I am in this thread. I do not want to repeat my experience with Blaupunkt where I spent good money on a pair of headphones just to discover that they suck donkey balls. I would rather get the opinion of people who listen to classical and jazz and know what headphones are better suited.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 31 October 2014, 13:03:36
If classical and jazz are your thing, look at Sennheiser's offerings. If a more portable headphone is your forte, check out the Sennheiser Momentum.

I found the over ear momentums to be slightly V Shaped so I'm not sure they would be best suited to those genres but again it's up to the buyer to decide

I have neither the will nor the funds to purchase several different pairs of headphones just to decide which pair I like. This is why I am in this thread. I do not want to repeat my experience with Blaupunkt where I spent good money on a pair of headphones just to discover that they suck donkey balls. I would rather get the opinion of people who listen to classical and jazz and know what headphones are better suited.



If you are that worried about your money go to a hi-fi shop or pro audio store.  Listen to what they have in the store and don't assume you have to buy anything there.

If you know at least what sort of sound you do like and which headphone made that sound people here can help you by suggesting similarly tuned cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pharaoh on Fri, 31 October 2014, 19:52:52
http://www.head-fi.org/t/619501/a-complete-list-of-celebrity-endorsed-and-celebrity-tribute-headphones-with-a-few-unknown-surprises

As the link gives away, It's topical to the discussion above.


edit: http://celebheadphones.blogspot.com/    ...I threw up in my mouth a little bit.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 02 November 2014, 05:54:09
Just got myself a used Sennheiser HD800 for 800USD (liked the symmetry), not at all cheap but it's within my budget. I has some minor cosmetic defects but my goodness, the soundstage! :eek:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zps67c0c3e1.jpg)

I also have a Sennheiser HD555 from about a decade back, and an Audio Technica ATH-AD700X.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sun, 02 November 2014, 06:27:10
800USD is an outstanding price! I got mine used in great condition for $1200. The soundstage truly is mind blowing.

Lately my Hifiman HE-500 has been getting all the head time. I just put some of the new HE-560 pads on it and man does it sound sweet!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Sun, 02 November 2014, 07:52:29
Personally I love a flat response for any kind of music. That still enables you to use an amp to give it some extra bang if that's what you're after. If your headphone's sound is already coloured one way or the other, it's much more difficult to make it sound flat.

Usually the DT 880s are favoured for classical listening because they're open, airy and very analytical. The 770s are usually described similarly, but since they're closed they are more bassy. I would recommend the Beyers to anyone, particularly because they have metal innards, while I'm pretty sure Senns are mostly plastic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sun, 02 November 2014, 08:34:27
The Senns are mostly plastic but their build quality is rock solid. Honestly, the most fragile-feeling Sennheiser I've owned is the HD800, which is supposedly made out of some space-age, proprietary acoutsic composites. That's not a headphone I usually lug around everywhere though, so it doesn't really bother me too much.

I like neutral sometimes but I also like colored depending on what music I'm listening to or what kind of mood I'm in. I just keep multiple sets of cans around for any occasion. Just like keyboards, why limit yourself to only one flavor :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 02 November 2014, 08:41:25
Personally I love a flat response for any kind of music. That still enables you to use an amp to give it some extra bang if that's what you're after. If your headphone's sound is already coloured one way or the other, it's much more difficult to make it sound flat.

Usually the DT 880s are favoured for classical listening because they're open, airy and very analytical. The 770s are usually described similarly, but since they're closed they are more bassy. I would recommend the Beyers to anyone, particularly because they have metal innards, while I'm pretty sure Senns are mostly plastic.

Unfortunately I've always felt beyers to be unnatural =[
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Evo_Spec on Sun, 02 November 2014, 09:03:59
i'll welcome myself to the forums with these.

[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=4]

[attachimg=2]

[attachimg=3]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 02 November 2014, 09:11:32
The Senns are mostly plastic but their build quality is rock solid. Honestly, the most fragile-feeling Sennheiser I've owned is the HD800, which is supposedly made out of some space-age, proprietary acoutsic composites. That's not a headphone I usually lug around everywhere though, so it doesn't really bother me too much.

I like neutral sometimes but I also like colored depending on what music I'm listening to or what kind of mood I'm in. I just keep multiple sets of cans around for any occasion. Just like keyboards, why limit yourself to only one flavor :)
I tried the T90, I found the highs to be a tad metallic, a tad bright for my liking.....lacks warmth. It sounds good though, which was why I'd considered it as well.....knocked it off before I was left with two, Senn HD650 and a MrSpeakers Alpha Dog. Got tired of bargaining with the seller of the latter, called the HD800 seller and dealt with him almost immediately. I'd auditioned it, the HD650, The Beyer T90, even an Audeze LCD 2 (too damn costly!). Sound appreciation is so subjective anyway, and the old saying holds true here: One man's meat is another man's poison.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sun, 02 November 2014, 09:45:50
i'll welcome myself to the forums with these.

(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)


Love the Q701! I've always thought that was one of the best looking headphones. Some people hate it, but I really like the color scheme. Great headphone if you like a bright and detailed sound.

The Senns are mostly plastic but their build quality is rock solid. Honestly, the most fragile-feeling Sennheiser I've owned is the HD800, which is supposedly made out of some space-age, proprietary acoutsic composites. That's not a headphone I usually lug around everywhere though, so it doesn't really bother me too much.

I like neutral sometimes but I also like colored depending on what music I'm listening to or what kind of mood I'm in. I just keep multiple sets of cans around for any occasion. Just like keyboards, why limit yourself to only one flavor :)
I tried the T90, I found the highs to be a tad metallic, a tad bright for my liking.....lacks warmth. It sounds good though, which was why I'd considered it as well.....knocked it off before I was left with two, Senn HD650 and a MrSpeakers Alpha Dog. Got tired of bargaining with the seller of the latter, called the HD800 seller and dealt with him almost immediately. I'd auditioned it, the HD650, The Beyer T90, even an Audeze LCD 2 (too damn costly!). Sound appreciation is so subjective anyway, and the old saying holds true here: One man's meat is another man's poison.

Very true. Everyone has their own distinct preference when it comes to sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Evo_Spec on Sun, 02 November 2014, 11:01:51
i'll welcome myself to the forums with these.

(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)


Love the Q701! I've always thought that was one of the best looking headphones. Some people hate it, but I really like the color scheme. Great headphone if you like a bright and detailed sound.

I fell in love with the color and look since i first saw the green/black Q701's and after the sound reviews i knew i had to have them and luckily shortly after getting a large sum of money they dropped on MD.
i actually favor the sound of the Q701's the most out of all my headphones and i found the Grado SR80i's to be brighter and harsh after getting my Q701's (they seemed fine before i got it)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Sun, 02 November 2014, 15:39:15
Never tried the T90 myself but the frequency curve for the 880 blew my socks off (http://i.imgur.com/D0v0z3E.gif). Kinda surprised how neutral the HD650 still is.

I'm sure Sennheisers are fine. I had one before; it wasn't the plastic that failed on me, it was the detachable cord that I had to re-buy three or four times. They're still good phones. Ironically, I just now have to replace that little plastic clamp holding the earpieces to the headband on my Beyer. One of them cracked after years of use. I suppose the metal & plastic thing might as well be an aesthetic preference.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Mon, 03 November 2014, 06:52:35
The Senns are mostly plastic but their build quality is rock solid. Honestly, the most fragile-feeling Sennheiser I've owned is the HD800, which is supposedly made out of some space-age, proprietary acoutsic composites. That's not a headphone I usually lug around everywhere though, so it doesn't really bother me too much.

I like neutral sometimes but I also like colored depending on what music I'm listening to or what kind of mood I'm in. I just keep multiple sets of cans around for any occasion. Just like keyboards, why limit yourself to only one flavor :)
I tried the T90, I found the highs to be a tad metallic, a tad bright for my liking.....lacks warmth. It sounds good though, which was why I'd considered it as well.....knocked it off before I was left with two, Senn HD650 and a MrSpeakers Alpha Dog. Got tired of bargaining with the seller of the latter, called the HD800 seller and dealt with him almost immediately. I'd auditioned it, the HD650, The Beyer T90, even an Audeze LCD 2 (too damn costly!). Sound appreciation is so subjective anyway, and the old saying holds true here: One man's meat is another man's poison.

The T90 really warms up when connected to a good matching tube amp. I've found the T90 matches amazingly when paired with a WooAudio WA7 Fireflies.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Mon, 03 November 2014, 08:04:19
I have a pair of Qpad QH-85 (basically an open-ear version of Takstar Pro 80 with a removable mic). It's a very nice headset for the price (€90) and I've used it for about three years now and I'll probably keep using it until it falls apart or until I have enough money to justify getting an audiofile-grade pair of headphones.
I use it with the integrated soundcard on my cheap four year old Gigabyte mobo and the sound quality produced by the mobo obviously isn't the best and the noise is very noticeable at times. So after some research I've decided that I should get an external DAC/Amp.
I'm leaning towards the Fiio E10K since it's pretty cheap and I've heard good things about it.
Do any of you have experience with the E10K or do you know any better DAC/Amps in the same price range that you can recommend?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 03 November 2014, 10:34:12
The Senns are mostly plastic but their build quality is rock solid. Honestly, the most fragile-feeling Sennheiser I've owned is the HD800, which is supposedly made out of some space-age, proprietary acoutsic composites. That's not a headphone I usually lug around everywhere though, so it doesn't really bother me too much.

I like neutral sometimes but I also like colored depending on what music I'm listening to or what kind of mood I'm in. I just keep multiple sets of cans around for any occasion. Just like keyboards, why limit yourself to only one flavor :)
I tried the T90, I found the highs to be a tad metallic, a tad bright for my liking.....lacks warmth. It sounds good though, which was why I'd considered it as well.....knocked it off before I was left with two, Senn HD650 and a MrSpeakers Alpha Dog. Got tired of bargaining with the seller of the latter, called the HD800 seller and dealt with him almost immediately. I'd auditioned it, the HD650, The Beyer T90, even an Audeze LCD 2 (too damn costly!). Sound appreciation is so subjective anyway, and the old saying holds true here: One man's meat is another man's poison.

The T90 really warms up when connected to a good matching tube amp. I've found the T90 matches amazingly when paired with a WooAudio WA7 Fireflies.

That's odd to hear... I always felt beyers had this really unnatural treble.
And the fireflies was really harsh with the stock tubes.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 03 November 2014, 11:20:14
Bought a DAC/AMP to feed the beast, though the soundstage on the HD800 is exceptional, enabling 3D audio and Bass Boost (subtle increase only) inspired me to finish listening to some CD's I'd not bothered to finish when I'd first gotten them. With 3D audio, the wide soundstage on the HD800 became more spacious. Oh yeah, it's an iFi Micro iDSD which has quite a few features that I liked.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/microidsd_zps02a5bd65.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Mon, 03 November 2014, 11:34:44
I have a pair of Qpad QH-85 (basically an open-ear version of Takstar Pro 80 with a removable mic). It's a very nice headset for the price (€90) and I've used it for about three years now and I'll probably keep using it until it falls apart or until I have enough money to justify getting an audiofile-grade pair of headphones.
I use it with the integrated soundcard on my cheap four year old Gigabyte mobo and the sound quality produced by the mobo obviously isn't the best and the noise is very noticeable at times. So after some research I've decided that I should get an external DAC/Amp.
I'm leaning towards the Fiio E10K since it's pretty cheap and I've heard good things about it.
Do any of you have experience with the E10K or do you know any better DAC/Amps in the same price range that you can recommend?

I'd recommend checking out the Schiit Magni/Modi. You'd be hard-pressed to find a better DAC/amp stack at that price point.

Bought a DAC/AMP to feed the beast, though the soundstage on the HD800 is exceptional, enabling 3D audio and Bass Boost (subtle increase only) inspired me to finish listening to some CD's I'd not bothered to finish when I'd first gotten them. With 3D audio, the wide soundstage on the HD800 became more spacious. Oh yeah, it's an iFi Micro iDSD which has quite a few features that I liked.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/microidsd_zps02a5bd65.jpg)


I drive mine with a Schiit Bifrost Uber and Lyr. A good set of NOS Amperex Orange Globes makes it sound silky smooth. I'd really like to have a Woo Audio WA2 or a Decware Taboo MKIII.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iri on Tue, 04 November 2014, 17:19:22
i came to this thread for advice on good earbuds for my new $50 player and realized i'm pathetic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sobe on Tue, 04 November 2014, 19:08:07
That's odd to hear... I always felt beyers had this really unnatural treble.
And the fireflies was really harsh with the stock tubes.

Beyer's treble does have quite a bit of sparkle to it, and really to go into Beyers you have to like that. As for the Fireflies recommendation I made, the Beyer T90 and WA7 Fireflies has such a synergy together that words cannot simply describe how great it is and how perfect those 2 are for each other. That being said, yes, I would recommend the 6C45 tube upgrades if purchasing directly from WooAudio.

The T90 are the highest I have gone into the audiophile segment as far as personal equipment goes, can't quite afford the HD800 that I'd love to have without selling one or more pair of others that I'm not ready to part with yet.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 05 November 2014, 00:03:05
i came to this thread for advice on good earbuds for my new $50 player and realized i'm pathetic.

Noble K10 universal? xP
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 05 November 2014, 11:35:26
i came to this thread for advice on good earbuds for my new $50 player and realized i'm pathetic.

Nothing pathetic about it  :) Headphones can be an expensive hobby, even more so than keyboards. Everyone starts somewhere.

Not sure what your budget is, but the UE900 is a good IEM (with the Comply foam tips) with a reasonable price tag. When I'm on the go, I listen to mine straight out of my iPhone without an amp and they sound good. They are a little on the warm-ish side with slightly forward mids. I'd look elsewhere if you want something bass-heavy but it is nicely balanced and easy to drive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Wed, 05 November 2014, 16:18:53
I have entered the wonderful world of headphones a bit more enthusiastically now.

I started probably about 10 years ago with some Sennheiser HD555's, then ended up with PC350SE's for use on my PC for gaming.

I recently got an Epiphany Acoustics O2 amp/dac and have a pair of AKG Q701's on the way via massdrop. The amp/dac has really brought the PC350SE's to life! Such a big difference, to which I wasn't expecting really. Not that noticeable anyway. I am hearing things that I have never picked up on before and it seems to have opened up these cans!

I can't wait for my AKG's to arrive as they should be a far superior headphone to the PC350's anyway.

Needless to say, I have the feeling this along with keyboards is going to be something else to pour money into.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 05 November 2014, 16:38:09
I have entered the wonderful world of headphones a bit more enthusiastically now.

I started probably about 10 years ago with some Sennheiser HD555's, then ended up with PC350SE's for use on my PC for gaming.

I recently got an Epiphany Acoustics O2 amp/dac and have a pair of AKG Q701's on the way via massdrop. The amp/dac has really brought the PC350SE's to life! Such a big difference, to which I wasn't expecting really. Not that noticeable anyway. I am hearing things that I have never picked up on before and it seems to have opened up these cans!

I can't wait for my AKG's to arrive as they should be a far superior headphone to the PC350's anyway.

Needless to say, I have the feeling this along with keyboards is going to be something else to pour money into.

Careful!

Unless you're buying lots of clacks on the aftermarket the audio world can be Much more expensive
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iri on Wed, 05 November 2014, 17:33:29
i came to this thread for advice on good earbuds for my new $50 player and realized i'm pathetic.

Nothing pathetic about it  :) Headphones can be an expensive hobby, even more so than keyboards. Everyone starts somewhere.

Not sure what your budget is, but the UE900 is a good IEM (with the Comply foam tips) with a reasonable price tag.
right, they are only 10 times more expensive than my player.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 05 November 2014, 22:38:59
i came to this thread for advice on good earbuds for my new $50 player and realized i'm pathetic.

Nothing pathetic about it  :) Headphones can be an expensive hobby, even more so than keyboards. Everyone starts somewhere.

Not sure what your budget is, but the UE900 is a good IEM (with the Comply foam tips) with a reasonable price tag.
right, they are only 10 times more expensive than my player.

Should the price ratio between the headphones and the player even be a factor as long as it sounds good? I think you will find people are only going to recommend decent audio equipment in this thread.  :)

Perhaps you would be better served picking up a $10 pair of JVC earbuds from WalMart
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 05 November 2014, 23:05:39
I really wonder how these EK sales work, especially now. Does CC have any say in who they sell to after he gives them the clacks?

As in, do they only go by their "ban" list or does CC send them the names/addresses of people he knows of who are either gaming the system or not allowed to win (Such as people like K3 or any of his supporters)

Since these sales do not go by username I would imagine it would be easier for people to get in who CC might not want to win.

Who knows, just a thought.

Spoiler alert: we're all banned.
:))

i came to this thread for advice on good earbuds for my new $50 player and realized i'm pathetic.

Nothing pathetic about it  :) Headphones can be an expensive hobby, even more so than keyboards. Everyone starts somewhere.

Not sure what your budget is, but the UE900 is a good IEM (with the Comply foam tips) with a reasonable price tag.
right, they are only 10 times more expensive than my player.

My JVC XX buds were decent before I moved onto my 535s, I would recommend them for the $30 they cost me if thats what you are looking for.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iri on Thu, 06 November 2014, 02:39:58
Should the price ratio between the headphones and the player even be a factor as long as it sounds good?
nope, but had i $550 to spend on a portable player and headphones, i'd distribute the money more evenly between the products. like, buy ibasso dx50 and westone um2 :)

Perhaps you would be better served picking up a $10 pair of JVC earbuds from WalMart
thanks! but ticket to the usa is even more expensive than those gorgeous creative's headphones you recommended :p

My JVC XX buds were decent before I moved onto my 535s, I would recommend them for the $30 they cost me if thats what you are looking for.
thank you for you advice.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Thu, 06 November 2014, 09:31:25
Bought a DAC/AMP to feed the beast, though the soundstage on the HD800 is exceptional, enabling 3D audio and Bass Boost (subtle increase only) inspired me to finish listening to some CD's I'd not bothered to finish when I'd first gotten them. With 3D audio, the wide soundstage on the HD800 became more spacious. Oh yeah, it's an iFi Micro iDSD which has quite a few features that I liked.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/microidsd_zps02a5bd65.jpg)


Tried the idsd a while ago on a Hifi exhibition. I liked it but I am always very sceptical to the inclusion of filters. Nice to hear that you liked them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TheSven on Sat, 08 November 2014, 16:41:23
Superlux HD668Bs for music on my phone.
Plantronics Gamecom 780 for my PC (listening, gaming and recording).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iri on Sat, 08 November 2014, 17:55:54
I decided to go with Audio-Technica ATH SJ-55.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 10 November 2014, 00:36:52
Alright guys. I need some advice. I have an opportunity to trade my T90s and $250 for Hifiman HE-560s. Is it worth it? The amp/dac I would be pairing it with is the CEntrance DACmini CX.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 10 November 2014, 10:28:41
Alright guys. I need some advice. I have an opportunity to trade my T90s and $250 for Hifiman HE-560s. Is it worth it? The amp/dac I would be pairing it with is the CEntrance DACmini CX.

I really did not like the T90 as I mentioned before =S

But that deal doesn't seem the greatest to me either
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 10 November 2014, 11:28:08
Alright guys. I need some advice. I have an opportunity to trade my T90s and $250 for Hifiman HE-560s. Is it worth it? The amp/dac I would be pairing it with is the CEntrance DACmini CX.

I really did not like the T90 as I mentioned before =S

But that deal doesn't seem the greatest to me either

How so? What about the deal isn't fair? The T90s are about ~400ish + $250 cash and then the HE560's he was asking for $735 ish for a straight sale.

Personally I love the T90s detail and clarity. My only issue with them is that they lack some musicality when paired with the DACmini.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 10 November 2014, 11:41:49
(http://i.imgur.com/zLNgntR.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 10 November 2014, 12:12:15
Alright guys. I need some advice. I have an opportunity to trade my T90s and $250 for Hifiman HE-560s. Is it worth it? The amp/dac I would be pairing it with is the CEntrance DACmini CX.

I really did not like the T90 as I mentioned before =S

But that deal doesn't seem the greatest to me either

How so? What about the deal isn't fair? The T90s are about ~400ish + $250 cash and then the HE560's he was asking for $735 ish for a straight sale.

Personally I love the T90s detail and clarity. My only issue with them is that they lack some musicality when paired with the DACmini.


I find other headphones have just as good clarity and whatnot but are still musical.

And last I saw the T90 they were over $500 new?

Maybe I'm mistaken in the prices that I remember
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 10 November 2014, 12:26:49
Alright guys. I need some advice. I have an opportunity to trade my T90s and $250 for Hifiman HE-560s. Is it worth it? The amp/dac I would be pairing it with is the CEntrance DACmini CX.

I really did not like the T90 as I mentioned before =S

But that deal doesn't seem the greatest to me either

How so? What about the deal isn't fair? The T90s are about ~400ish + $250 cash and then the HE560's he was asking for $735 ish for a straight sale.

Personally I love the T90s detail and clarity. My only issue with them is that they lack some musicality when paired with the DACmini.


I find other headphones have just as good clarity and whatnot but are still musical.

And last I saw the T90 they were over $500 new?

Maybe I'm mistaken in the prices that I remember
They are both used. But I got my T90s for just under 400 shipped.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: codymaust on Mon, 10 November 2014, 23:52:14
I currently have Beyer DT770's, and really enjoy them

Would the VSonic GR-07's (bass edition) be a good choice for an IEM under $150USD?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 11 November 2014, 07:08:50
Alright guys. I need some advice. I have an opportunity to trade my T90s and $250 for Hifiman HE-560s. Is it worth it? The amp/dac I would be pairing it with is the CEntrance DACmini CX.

I really did not like the T90 as I mentioned before =S

But that deal doesn't seem the greatest to me either

How so? What about the deal isn't fair? The T90s are about ~400ish + $250 cash and then the HE560's he was asking for $735 ish for a straight sale.

Personally I love the T90s detail and clarity. My only issue with them is that they lack some musicality when paired with the DACmini.


I find other headphones have just as good clarity and whatnot but are still musical.

And last I saw the T90 they were over $500 new?

Maybe I'm mistaken in the prices that I remember
They are both used. But I got my T90s for just under 400 shipped.

Just consider going used rates first IMO

I don't think the HE560 sells for that much used but any who, if you really want to change to a 560 then maybe the simplicity of a trade is more worthwhile in the end

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 11 November 2014, 08:09:13
Oh man, just like keyboards, this headphones bug has got me bad! In addition to my recently acquired HD800, I'd already gotten an Audio Technica ATH-AD700X with a HD555 that I'd bought quite a few years back. Now, I've committed to buying two used cans -
1. Beyerdynamic DT990 600 Ohm Premium
2. HiFiman HE400i

Best part is, I'd gotten them for a total of 552USD which I think to be a great price (if it isn't, don't rain on my parade.....puh-lease!  ;D ). The HiFiman HE400i will come with its own stand (not part of standard package) and I'll be ordering a Walnut omega stand for the HD800, as well as two plain metal ones for the HD555 and the DT990. Can't wait get 'em! :D As usual, I will be back with pics when I have 'em. :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 11 November 2014, 08:22:02
Oh man, just like keyboards, this headphones bug has got me bad! In addition to my recently acquired HD800, I'd already gotten an Audio Technica ATH-AD700X with a HD555 that I'd bought quite a few years back. Now, I've committed to buying two used cans -
1. Beyerdynamic DT990 600 Ohm Premium
2. HiFiman HE400i

Best part is, I'd gotten them for a total of 552USD which I think to be a great price (if it isn't, don't rain on my parade.....puh-lease!  ;D ). The HiFiman HE400i will come with its own stand (not part of standard package) and I'll be ordering a Walnut omega stand for the HD800, as well as two plain metal ones for the HD555 and the DT990. Can't wait get 'em! :D As usual, I will be back with pics when I have 'em. :thumb:

Be careful not to chip the paint on the HD800 T.T

When I got my pair it was already a bit damaged and I rubbed it the wrong way and it got worse for the paint =(

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 11 November 2014, 08:37:50
Be careful not to chip the paint on the HD800 T.T

When I got my pair it was already a bit damaged and I rubbed it the wrong way and it got worse for the paint =(
Yeah, whaddup with Senn? One'd expect better, or more durable paintjob for such an expensive pair of cans.... :mad:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 13 November 2014, 21:02:47
Two more pairs of cans to add to my headphones collection...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpsaeea2202.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 13 November 2014, 21:14:02
Well I ordered the AKG k551 for $170 CDN from Canada Computers. Hopefully I got my order in time before all the stock was depleted
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Thu, 13 November 2014, 21:14:21
Two more pairs of cans to add to my headphones collection...
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpsaeea2202.jpg)


Sweet!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Thu, 13 November 2014, 21:19:19
Well I ordered the AKG k551 for $170 CDN from Canada Computers. Hopefully I got my order in time before all the stock was depleted

Congrats! Let's hope so. I ordered a print server for work and when I checked the order later the product page was a 404 page and it was 2-3 months before the product would be available again.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 13 November 2014, 21:27:01
Well I ordered the AKG k551 for $170 CDN from Canada Computers. Hopefully I got my order in time before all the stock was depleted

Congrats! Let's hope so. I ordered a print server for work and when I checked the order later the product page was a 404 page and it was 2-3 months before the product would be available again.


As you post that my order is upgraded to confirmed

Though unfortunately I assume I won't be receiving it before monday. These earpods are annoying
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 13 November 2014, 21:43:14
I think I'm getting back into schiit gear and I'm trying to find a good second headphone to go with the th900.  I thought about the soundmagic that are on MD right now, but the QC issues there make me more than hesitant.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Fri, 14 November 2014, 01:02:54
I think I'm getting back into schiit gear and I'm trying to find a good second headphone to go with the th900.  I thought about the soundmagic that are on MD right now, but the QC issues there make me more than hesitant.

Any specific model your are thinking about?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 14 November 2014, 10:27:22
I think I'm getting back into schiit gear and I'm trying to find a good second headphone to go with the th900.  I thought about the soundmagic that are on MD right now, but the QC issues there make me more than hesitant.

Any specific model your are thinking about?

Of schiit?  bifrost uber and asgard 2.  Of second headphone?  I've kicked around about every decent option available for $250 or less.  Right now, it's up in the air between hd598, k272mk2,sony ma900, soundmagic hp200 and pioneer se-a1000
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 14 November 2014, 11:20:57
I think I'm getting back into schiit gear and I'm trying to find a good second headphone to go with the th900.  I thought about the soundmagic that are on MD right now, but the QC issues there make me more than hesitant.

Any specific model your are thinking about?

Of schiit?  bifrost uber and asgard 2.  Of second headphone?  I've kicked around about every decent option available for $250 or less.  Right now, it's up in the air between hd598, k272mk2,sony ma900, soundmagic hp200 and pioneer se-a1000

What kind of sound signature are you looking for? Out of that list it seems like the 598 might be the most opposite your TH900. Not sure if you want to go that route though. Also HD598s probably have the best comfort out of that list.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 14 November 2014, 11:26:53
I think I'm getting back into schiit gear and I'm trying to find a good second headphone to go with the th900.  I thought about the soundmagic that are on MD right now, but the QC issues there make me more than hesitant.

Any specific model your are thinking about?

Of schiit?  bifrost uber and asgard 2.  Of second headphone?  I've kicked around about every decent option available for $250 or less.  Right now, it's up in the air between hd598, k272mk2,sony ma900, soundmagic hp200 and pioneer se-a1000

What kind of sound signature are you looking for? Out of that list it seems like the 598 might be the most opposite your TH900. Not sure if you want to go that route though. Also HD598s probably have the best comfort out of that list.

I want comfort and something different than the th900 so I have a reason to wear them.  I'm leaning more to the sennheiser or the sony at the moment. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 14 November 2014, 11:29:57
What about beyer? Dt990s are extremely comfortable! (Even with my big head)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 14 November 2014, 11:35:27
What about beyer? Dt990s are extremely comfortable! (Even with my big head)

Beyers are very comfortable I use the T90s myself and the HD598s both are extremely comfortable. I haven't been able to try anything close to the TH900 but i mean since they are closed and (planar magnetic?) they would be a huge contrast the open dynamic drivers of the HD598.

TJ what kind of music do you usually listen to?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 14 November 2014, 11:47:22
What about beyer? Dt990s are extremely comfortable! (Even with my big head)

Beyers are very comfortable I use the T90s myself and the HD598s both are extremely comfortable. I haven't been able to try anything close to the TH900 but i mean since they are closed and (planar magnetic?) they would be a huge contrast the open dynamic drivers of the HD598.

TJ what kind of music do you usually listen to?

I have a pair of dt990 that I'm trying to sell because I'm not super into how they sound.  Also, the th900 are dynamic drivers, too.  They just use a high tesla magnet. I mostly listen to 90s to early 00s rock and rap with branches into modern classical, electronica and I'm sure I'm forgetting about 3 others.  Most of my preferred music has a strong low end, though.

I wish I could be ok with twothree (I should probably count my jh13pros here...) kilobuck headphones.  I'd just have a pair of lcd2, hd800 or oppo pm-1 (maybe 2) if I could do that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 14 November 2014, 12:31:31
Hmm yeah the t90s are supposedly just a much stronger 990 but the hd598 definitely should cover your basis in my opinion. It will definitely have a lot less bass since they are open and have a treble forward approach. But their sound stage is awesome. Do you consider yourself a bass head?

As for end game gear. I would love the LCD 3 or LCD X and the hd800.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Fri, 14 November 2014, 13:23:29
I presume this is probably the best place to put this, but I have been messing about with my cans since getting myself a dac amp. There doesn't seem to be anywhere that says about what PC350SE's are like amped up but my god to me it was such a night and day difference. I was told I probably wouldn't notice much but its insane! So much fuller throughout the whole range and there is a decent bass presence and unamped they are very flat and leave much to be desired. I was preferring my HD555's with the "595 mod" before having an amp, but now they sound rubbish to me in comparison to the PC350SE's.

I had pre-emptively ordered better cans in preparation for my amp and dac (AKG Q701's). If they sound better than these PC350SE's I will honestly lose my mind. I am relatively new to this audio stuff so take whatever I say with a pinch of salt.

Does anyone here own the AKG's? What are your experience of them? I heard they are super accurate and have a very wide sound stage.

Is it bad I have been looking at buying some Beyerdynamics too? I just don't know which to look more actively at the DT770, DT880 or DT990.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 14 November 2014, 13:35:31
I presume this is probably the best place to put this, but I have been messing about with my cans since getting myself a dac amp. There doesn't seem to be anywhere that says about what PC350SE's are like amped up but my god to me it was such a night and day difference. I was told I probably wouldn't notice much but its insane! So much fuller throughout the whole range and there is a decent bass presence and unamped they are very flat and leave much to be desired. I was preferring my HD555's with the "595 mod" before having an amp, but now they sound rubbish to me in comparison to the PC350SE's.

I had pre-emptively ordered better cans in preparation for my amp and dac (AKG Q701's). If they sound better than these PC350SE's I will honestly lose my mind. I am relatively new to this audio stuff so take whatever I say with a pinch of salt.

Does anyone here own the AKG's? What are your experience of them? I heard they are super accurate and have a very wide sound stage.

Is it bad I have been looking at buying some Beyerdynamics too? I just don't know which to look more actively at the DT770, DT880 or DT990.

For the beyer dt series. 770 is closed for bassy music, 880 is the all rounder, and 990 is open with a supposed v shaped sound sig. Can't go wrong with any of those choices in my opinion.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Fri, 14 November 2014, 13:43:02
I presume this is probably the best place to put this, but I have been messing about with my cans since getting myself a dac amp. There doesn't seem to be anywhere that says about what PC350SE's are like amped up but my god to me it was such a night and day difference. I was told I probably wouldn't notice much but its insane! So much fuller throughout the whole range and there is a decent bass presence and unamped they are very flat and leave much to be desired. I was preferring my HD555's with the "595 mod" before having an amp, but now they sound rubbish to me in comparison to the PC350SE's.

I had pre-emptively ordered better cans in preparation for my amp and dac (AKG Q701's). If they sound better than these PC350SE's I will honestly lose my mind. I am relatively new to this audio stuff so take whatever I say with a pinch of salt.

Does anyone here own the AKG's? What are your experience of them? I heard they are super accurate and have a very wide sound stage.

Is it bad I have been looking at buying some Beyerdynamics too? I just don't know which to look more actively at the DT770, DT880 or DT990.

For the beyer dt series. 770 is closed for bassy music, 880 is the all rounder, and 990 is open with a supposed v shaped sound sig. Can't go wrong with any of those choices in my opinion.

Thanks for the reply, that is a decent summary and pretty much seems to be the general consensus as other things I have read. I suppose I need to see how I fair with my AKG's really (bloody massdrop taking ages to deliver). I should have access to at least one of the DT series of headphones as a friend has a recording studio, I think I will be cheeky and borrow a pair and see what they are like.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 14 November 2014, 19:57:36
I presume this is probably the best place to put this, but I have been messing about with my cans since getting myself a dac amp. There doesn't seem to be anywhere that says about what PC350SE's are like amped up but my god to me it was such a night and day difference. I was told I probably wouldn't notice much but its insane! So much fuller throughout the whole range and there is a decent bass presence and unamped they are very flat and leave much to be desired. I was preferring my HD555's with the "595 mod" before having an amp, but now they sound rubbish to me in comparison to the PC350SE's.

I had pre-emptively ordered better cans in preparation for my amp and dac (AKG Q701's). If they sound better than these PC350SE's I will honestly lose my mind. I am relatively new to this audio stuff so take whatever I say with a pinch of salt.

Does anyone here own the AKG's? What are your experience of them? I heard they are super accurate and have a very wide sound stage.

Is it bad I have been looking at buying some Beyerdynamics too? I just don't know which to look more actively at the DT770, DT880 or DT990.

I own the Q701 and have used it extensively. It has a very revealing sound and picks out details well. The soundstage is spacious and is wider than it is deep. It is a little on the brighter side of neutral. It has some problematic peaks around the upper mids that can be glaring with certain tracks but this can be tamed somewhat with a good source. The sound is rather dry (not necessarily a bad thing if you don't like a wet sound) and feels a bit grainy. The low end is slightly recessed for what I would consider neutral which can lead to a bit of a thin sound but it is well extended. The timbre is much more realistic than some warmer headphones.

TLDR: it's a very neutral, detailed sounding headphone with a great soundstage and a killer price tag.

I don't have any experience with the Beyers so I can't comment on those.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 14 November 2014, 20:48:36
A lot has to do with the DAC/AMP used as well, as I'd recently discovered. My HD800 and Beyer DT990/600 are generally said to be somewhat bright, and if the source has lots of high frequency, they would sound a tad bright for most. Now, the iFi Micro iDSD (will be getting a Nano iDSD + Micro iCAN in a week or two) has been described as having a neutral sound that tilts somewhat to warm. With the iDSD + HD800 (and DT990/600), I don't find the cans to be bright at all, oh for sure the treble is there but doesn't annoy at all, quite pleasant actually.

With the HE400i which is said to be neutral, I find the sound to be veiled, treble and mids seems to be somewhat recessed, more so on the treble. I'm returning the HE400i, NOT because of this (plugging it in directly to my Asus Xonar Phoebus Solo or SB ZX resolved the veil issue) but due to a cosmetic defect that put me off. Will prolly get a HE400 instead as I understand it to be somewhat V shaped, the iDSD should lessen the treble while I don't mind a little 'oomph' bass-wise.

I've been trying out the DT990/600 and I'm actually quite taken with the sound, mild emphasis on the bass and treble, good soundstage (less width but good depth....at least that's how it sound like to me). As for comfort, I find the DT990 to be very comfortable and light and I can wear it all day long (I do have a rather small head as I'm Asian). I can only imagine what a T1 brings to the table....I can get a T1 for about 600USD and am considering that as well instead of going with the HE400. Thing is, I'd like to try a well regarded planar mag cans and it seems I'm left with either the HiFiman HE560 (and higher) or Audeze LCD2 (and higher). I already blew a wad on the HD800, so the thought of blowing even more is somewhat.....daunting.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 14 November 2014, 21:34:38
A lot has to do with the DAC/AMP used as well, as I'd recently discovered. My HD800 and Beyer DT990/600 are generally said to be somewhat bright, and if the source has lots of high frequency, they would sound a tad bright for most. Now, the iFi Micro iDSD (will be getting a Nano iDSD + Micro iCAN in a week or two) has been described as having a neutral sound that tilts somewhat to warm. With the iDSD + HD800 (and DT990/600), I don't find the cans to be bright at all, oh for sure the treble is there but doesn't annoy at all, quite pleasant actually.

With the HE400i which is said to be neutral, I find the sound to be veiled, treble and mids seems to be somewhat recessed, more so on the treble. I'm returning the HE400i, NOT because of this (plugging it in directly to my Asus Xonar Phoebus Solo or SB ZX resolved the veil issue) but due to a cosmetic defect that put me off. Will prolly get a HE400 instead as I understand it to be somewhat V shaped, the iDSD should lessen the treble while I don't mind a little 'oomph' bass-wise.

I've been trying out the DT990/600 and I'm actually quite taken with the sound, mild emphasis on the bass and treble, good soundstage (less width but good depth....at least that's how it sound like to me). As for comfort, I find the DT990 to be very comfortable and light and I can wear it all day long (I do have a rather small head as I'm Asian). I can only imagine what a T1 brings to the table....I can get a T1 for about 600USD and am considering that as well instead of going with the HE400. Thing is, I'd like to try a well regarded planar mag cans and it seems I'm left with either the HiFiman HE560 (and higher) or Audeze LCD2 (and higher). I already blew a wad on the HD800, so the thought of blowing even more is somewhat.....daunting.

Out of all the headphones I've owned, I find the HD800 responds the most to changes in the source/chain. Using a source with different characteristics can really fine tune the HD800 into the exact sound you are looking for.

If you can get a T1 for 600USD you should absolutely go for it. That's an amazing price for an amazing set of cans. I have been considering purchasing a pair myself.

I haven't heard the HE560 but I do have the HE500 and I absolutely love it. It's a little on the warmer side of neutral but does not sound veiled. It has a satisfying impact in the low end and extends very deep. The mids are what really make it great. It has this beautiful, buttery smooth sound that makes it a joy to listen to. Female vocals are amazing. It's not quite as accurate or "realistic" as the HD800 but it is very fun. I really love the HE500 with EDM/trance/chill. Best part is with the release of some of HiFiMAN's newest offerings, you can get the HE500 brand new for around 500USD. That is an absolute steal when you consider it made its debut at 1000USD.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 14 November 2014, 22:23:39
I haven't heard the HE560 but I do have the HE500 and I absolutely love it. It's a little on the warmer side of neutral but does not sound veiled. It has a satisfying impact in the low end and extends very deep. The mids are what really make it great. It has this beautiful, buttery smooth sound that makes it a joy to listen to. Female vocals are amazing. It's not quite as accurate or "realistic" as the HD800 but it is very fun. I really love the HE500 with EDM/trance/chill. Best part is with the release of some of HiFiMAN's newest offerings, you can get the HE500 brand new for around 500USD. That is an absolute steal when you consider it made its debut at 1000USD.
Great! :thumb: Now I can add the HE500 as a possible alternative to the Beyer T1, only snag is, there's hardly any available in my neck fo the woods. I can try online, but sometimes, the seller ships domestically only (US).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 17 November 2014, 07:41:36
So I've just committed to buying a set of Voxoa bluetooth earbuds so I don't have to keep taking my Sennheiser HD218s to the gym...

I've already got a set of ATH M-50s of course, and I bought a little DAC from mkawa a while ago but I have no idea what to do with it. It's got an optical in which I would like to use, but the only optical cable I've got has what looks like a 3.5mm jack end on it =/

I have no idea what the DAC is but I know it was a community made one somewhere. And as you can see the switch on the front is broken :(

More
(http://i.imgur.com/UtHi2pL.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/pbdIQl5.jpg)

I don't know if I should get another one at some point...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Mon, 17 November 2014, 11:23:54
Got my Q701's in the post today! I must say I was quite unimpressed with them initially, I was expecting a more night and day difference between my PC350SE's....  However after about 5 mins of listening to music I changed my mind, they are a vast improvement.

I spent a few hours listening to some lossless stuff like Fleetwood Mac and Pink Floyd, then some 320kbs stuff (varying genres). Started to read more into the bass mod as I did notice that there wasn't a huge amount shining through. It was there but didn't seem to have the body I would have expected. I took the plunge and did the bass mod and now it sounds much more pleasing from the bass point of view and from what I can tell it has not done anything/much to the rest of the range. Bear in mind I wasn't expecting to notice much difference and it was really quite a change for the better for me.

One thing I will also share, I first thought they were actually quite comfy to wear. However after a few hours I have noticed that headband feels like it is trying to burrow a hole through the top of my skull. I think it won't be long before I do something to sort that out. I did read that most people find them very uncomfortable after sustained periods of time. I would have thought AKG should have addressed this issue as it is quite a large design flaw! Sennheiser are the only other brand I have really had any experience with but both my HD555's and PC350SE's are so comfortable to wear you don't really notice how long you have had them on for at all.

Anyway here is a potato :)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MZ-V_vviOKE/VGoqzLawTjI/AAAAAAAAEGU/4iYWKB94EUM/w1598-h904-no/IMAG0057.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 17 November 2014, 11:50:07
Got my Q701's in the post today! I must say I was quite unimpressed with them initially, I was expecting a more night and day difference between my PC350SE's....  However after about 5 mins of listening to music I changed my mind, they are a vast improvement.

I spent a few hours listening to some lossless stuff like Fleetwood Mac and Pink Floyd, then some 320kbs stuff (varying genres). Started to read more into the bass mod as I did notice that there wasn't a huge amount shining through. It was there but didn't seem to have the body I would have expected. I took the plunge and did the bass mod and now it sounds much more pleasing from the bass point of view and from what I can tell it has not done anything/much to the rest of the range. Bear in mind I wasn't expecting to notice much difference and it was really quite a change for the better for me.

One thing I will also share, I first thought they were actually quite comfy to wear. However after a few hours I have noticed that headband feels like it is trying to burrow a hole through the top of my skull. I think it won't be long before I do something to sort that out. I did read that most people find them very uncomfortable after sustained periods of time. I would have thought AKG should have addressed this issue as it is quite a large design flaw! Sennheiser are the only other brand I have really had any experience with but both my HD555's and PC350SE's are so comfortable to wear you don't really notice how long you have had them on for at all.

Anyway here is a potato :)
Show Image
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MZ-V_vviOKE/VGoqzLawTjI/AAAAAAAAEGU/4iYWKB94EUM/w1598-h904-no/IMAG0057.jpg)


Simple. Law of diminishing returns! The PC350s are actually decent headphones so I wouldn't expect any huge difference between them and the Q701 besides sound signature.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Mon, 17 November 2014, 13:31:12
Got my Q701's in the post today! I must say I was quite unimpressed with them initially, I was expecting a more night and day difference between my PC350SE's....  However after about 5 mins of listening to music I changed my mind, they are a vast improvement.

I spent a few hours listening to some lossless stuff like Fleetwood Mac and Pink Floyd, then some 320kbs stuff (varying genres). Started to read more into the bass mod as I did notice that there wasn't a huge amount shining through. It was there but didn't seem to have the body I would have expected. I took the plunge and did the bass mod and now it sounds much more pleasing from the bass point of view and from what I can tell it has not done anything/much to the rest of the range. Bear in mind I wasn't expecting to notice much difference and it was really quite a change for the better for me.

One thing I will also share, I first thought they were actually quite comfy to wear. However after a few hours I have noticed that headband feels like it is trying to burrow a hole through the top of my skull. I think it won't be long before I do something to sort that out. I did read that most people find them very uncomfortable after sustained periods of time. I would have thought AKG should have addressed this issue as it is quite a large design flaw! Sennheiser are the only other brand I have really had any experience with but both my HD555's and PC350SE's are so comfortable to wear you don't really notice how long you have had them on for at all.

Anyway here is a potato :)
Show Image
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MZ-V_vviOKE/VGoqzLawTjI/AAAAAAAAEGU/4iYWKB94EUM/w1598-h904-no/IMAG0057.jpg)


The Q701's headband is a common problem because of the "padded" bumps on the underside. I cut the four center bumps off of mine and stitched a flat piece of leather across the area where they were. Huge improvement.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 17 November 2014, 14:28:27
So I've just committed to buying a set of Voxoa bluetooth earbuds so I don't have to keep taking my Sennheiser HD218s to the gym...

I've already got a set of ATH M-50s of course, and I bought a little DAC from mkawa a while ago but I have no idea what to do with it. It's got an optical in which I would like to use, but the only optical cable I've got has what looks like a 3.5mm jack end on it =/

I have no idea what the DAC is but I know it was a community made one somewhere. And as you can see the switch on the front is broken :(

More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/UtHi2pL.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/pbdIQl5.jpg)

I don't know if I should get another one at some point...

That looks like a toslink to mini optical cable.  If you have an optical port somewhere on your pc or mac equivalent, pick up whatever length you need of something like - (http://www.lindy.co.uk/images/10m-toslink-spdif-digital-optical-cable-p5894-1853_zoom.jpg).

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 17 November 2014, 14:55:11
So I've just committed to buying a set of Voxoa bluetooth earbuds so I don't have to keep taking my Sennheiser HD218s to the gym...

I've already got a set of ATH M-50s of course, and I bought a little DAC from mkawa a while ago but I have no idea what to do with it. It's got an optical in which I would like to use, but the only optical cable I've got has what looks like a 3.5mm jack end on it =/

I have no idea what the DAC is but I know it was a community made one somewhere. And as you can see the switch on the front is broken :(

More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/UtHi2pL.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/pbdIQl5.jpg)

I don't know if I should get another one at some point...

That looks like a toslink to mini optical cable.  If you have an optical port somewhere on your pc or mac equivalent, pick up whatever length you need of something like -
Show Image
(http://www.lindy.co.uk/images/10m-toslink-spdif-digital-optical-cable-p5894-1853_zoom.jpg)
.



I would actually recommend going with the coax. Personally I always get poorer quality sound via optical, like it's playing on a bumpy road. You don't hear it after a while, but IMO coax is more stable and the sound quality difference in negligible when compared to optical. Just one man's opinion on reliability.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 17 November 2014, 15:09:27
So I've just committed to buying a set of Voxoa bluetooth earbuds so I don't have to keep taking my Sennheiser HD218s to the gym...

I've already got a set of ATH M-50s of course, and I bought a little DAC from mkawa a while ago but I have no idea what to do with it. It's got an optical in which I would like to use, but the only optical cable I've got has what looks like a 3.5mm jack end on it =/

I have no idea what the DAC is but I know it was a community made one somewhere. And as you can see the switch on the front is broken :(

More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/UtHi2pL.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/pbdIQl5.jpg)

I don't know if I should get another one at some point...

That looks like a toslink to mini optical cable.  If you have an optical port somewhere on your pc or mac equivalent, pick up whatever length you need of something like -
Show Image
(http://www.lindy.co.uk/images/10m-toslink-spdif-digital-optical-cable-p5894-1853_zoom.jpg)
.



I would actually recommend going with the coax. Personally I always get poorer quality sound via optical, like it's playing on a bumpy road. You don't hear it after a while, but IMO coax is more stable and the sound quality difference in negligible when compared to optical. Just one man's opinion on reliability.

I thought USB was generally regarded as the stable? I currently just switched to optical since the bit decoding goes up to 192 on my DACmini. I was using USB before and I haven't heard any noticeable differences.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 17 November 2014, 15:17:57
So I've just committed to buying a set of Voxoa bluetooth earbuds so I don't have to keep taking my Sennheiser HD218s to the gym...

I've already got a set of ATH M-50s of course, and I bought a little DAC from mkawa a while ago but I have no idea what to do with it. It's got an optical in which I would like to use, but the only optical cable I've got has what looks like a 3.5mm jack end on it =/

I have no idea what the DAC is but I know it was a community made one somewhere. And as you can see the switch on the front is broken :(

More
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/UtHi2pL.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/pbdIQl5.jpg)

I don't know if I should get another one at some point...

That looks like a toslink to mini optical cable.  If you have an optical port somewhere on your pc or mac equivalent, pick up whatever length you need of something like -
Show Image
(http://www.lindy.co.uk/images/10m-toslink-spdif-digital-optical-cable-p5894-1853_zoom.jpg)
.

Yeah, I thought it was a bit weird, I didn't know which end to plug into where because both my MOBO and DAC have the same socket =/

I would actually recommend going with the coax. Personally I always get poorer quality sound via optical, like it's playing on a bumpy road. You don't hear it after a while, but IMO coax is more stable and the sound quality difference in negligible when compared to optical. Just one man's opinion on reliability.

Ah ok, they do seem like a little bit flimsy to plug in. The actual optical plug end falls out pretty easy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Tue, 18 November 2014, 08:52:24
I have no problems with toslink (optical) but shure, coax works too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Tue, 18 November 2014, 20:32:58
So after my debacle with Blaupunkt headphones, I finally picked up a new pair of Polk Audio Buckles.

I know what you're gonna say... "Why Polk? Why not Sennheisers or Denons?"

Well, these are strictly for work, and they sound good. No way I'm gonna bring a pair of Sennheisers or Denons into work and leave them there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: C5Allroad on Tue, 18 November 2014, 21:02:58
So... Getting tired of buying "gaming" headsets.
I bought a siberia elite, sounds nice, **** mic. EQ is nice on it though.
I'm looking for a set of headphones to replace this. Already chose the mod mic 4.0 to go with a new set of headphones.
I've been looking at California Headphones Silverado, and things for about $100. Maybe I can squeeze a bit more of that budget. Anyone know any that are good? EDM, house, and wub wub type music? Some rock, rap and gaming also.
Is it necessary to run a DAC, external sound card, or stuff like that?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 18 November 2014, 21:11:35
So... Getting tired of buying "gaming" headsets.
I bought a siberia elite, sounds nice, **** mic. EQ is nice on it though.
I'm looking for a set of headphones to replace this. Already chose the mod mic 4.0 to go with a new set of headphones.
I've been looking at California Headphones Silverado, and things for about $100. Maybe I can squeeze a bit more of that budget. Anyone know any that are good? EDM, house, and wub wub type music? Some rock, rap and gaming also.

ATH-M50
monoprice 8323
creative aurvana live
either of these used hp50 - http://www.head-fi.org/t/741835/nad-viso-hp50-headphones or http://www.head-fi.org/t/742830/fs-akg-702-w-balanced-recable-nah-viso-hp-50 (seriously, if you can stretch the extra $50 these are well worth it)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Tue, 18 November 2014, 21:18:15
I use ATH M50s with a Blue Yeti. It's awesome. So much better than the pair of Astros I used to use before. Comfier and the sound quality is better.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: C5Allroad on Tue, 18 November 2014, 21:44:04
Not into used headphones lol.
Looking into ath m50x, maybe the monoprice, but I really like the aesthetics of the Silverado lol.
Do any of these need amps or DACs?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SpikeBolt on Wed, 19 November 2014, 09:19:17
I'm currently using Philips Fidelio X1, they're really really good. Got them at a good price now that the X2 are out. Would recommend.

For skype I use the VModa Boompro. I don't know if it's better than Modmic but it's more convenient and doesn't require any sticking.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 November 2014, 11:39:37
Not into used headphones lol.
Looking into ath m50x, maybe the monoprice, but I really like the aesthetics of the Silverado lol.
Do any of these need amps or DACs?

I've found that even lower end audiophile headphones still improve with a better dac / amp

You don't really need it though, they'll all perform fine with even a phone

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 19 November 2014, 12:22:54
Oh thanks...
I'll be reading into this stuff, kind of new to audio. Saw the Asus u7... Any good?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 November 2014, 12:25:12
Oh thanks...
I'll be reading into this stuff, kind of new to audio. Saw the Asus u7... Any good?

Personally I've been interested a lot more in the AIO devices that have portable player capability and usb audio as well. The main one right now is the fiio stuff like the x3/x5

the only asus audio product I owned was the U3 and it was pretty good for the price but if you're looking for simplicity I definitely recommend the fiio products as they generally do very well at the prices they charge
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 19 November 2014, 13:12:12


Oh thanks...
I'll be reading into this stuff, kind of new to audio. Saw the Asus u7... Any good?

Personally I've been interested a lot more in the AIO devices that have portable player capability and usb audio as well. The main one right now is the fiio stuff like the x3/x5

the only asus audio product I owned was the U3 and it was pretty good for the price but if you're looking for simplicity I definitely recommend the fiio products as they generally do very well at the prices they charge

Hmm...
AIO? Atomic intermolecular overear headphones?

I don't exactly need portability as this would be mainly for my desktop :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 19 November 2014, 13:24:27


Oh thanks...
I'll be reading into this stuff, kind of new to audio. Saw the Asus u7... Any good?

Personally I've been interested a lot more in the AIO devices that have portable player capability and usb audio as well. The main one right now is the fiio stuff like the x3/x5

the only asus audio product I owned was the U3 and it was pretty good for the price but if you're looking for simplicity I definitely recommend the fiio products as they generally do very well at the prices they charge

Hmm...
AIO? Atomic intermolecular overear headphones?

I don't exactly need portability as this would be mainly for my desktop :)

AIO - All In One

A digital audio player that doubles as a DAC and headphone amplifier.  The holy trifecta.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 19 November 2014, 15:10:29


Oh thanks...
I'll be reading into this stuff, kind of new to audio. Saw the Asus u7... Any good?

Personally I've been interested a lot more in the AIO devices that have portable player capability and usb audio as well. The main one right now is the fiio stuff like the x3/x5

the only asus audio product I owned was the U3 and it was pretty good for the price but if you're looking for simplicity I definitely recommend the fiio products as they generally do very well at the prices they charge

Hmm...
AIO? Atomic intermolecular overear headphones?

I don't exactly need portability as this would be mainly for my desktop :)

AIO - All In One

A digital audio player that doubles as a DAC and headphone amplifier.  The holy trifecta.
Oh lol.
I might end up buying a U7, or fiio, with an ath m50. Its all kind of pricey lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 November 2014, 16:35:40


Oh thanks...
I'll be reading into this stuff, kind of new to audio. Saw the Asus u7... Any good?

Personally I've been interested a lot more in the AIO devices that have portable player capability and usb audio as well. The main one right now is the fiio stuff like the x3/x5

the only asus audio product I owned was the U3 and it was pretty good for the price but if you're looking for simplicity I definitely recommend the fiio products as they generally do very well at the prices they charge

Hmm...
AIO? Atomic intermolecular overear headphones?

I don't exactly need portability as this would be mainly for my desktop :)

AIO - All In One

A digital audio player that doubles as a DAC and headphone amplifier.  The holy trifecta.
Oh lol.
I might end up buying a U7, or fiio, with an ath m50. Its all kind of pricey lol.

Deciding on a budget you're comfortable with is better than overspending and having to sell or have regrets later

You can always check out the used market. An m50 (not x) would be around $75 used at fair value depending on usage and an x3 as low as $120 which would put you at around $200+shipping as a realistic number if you keep your eyes open.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Wed, 19 November 2014, 18:25:05
Okay, question time:

Beyerdynamic DT880 Premiums or Beyerdynamic DT770 Pros?

As an aside, this is a cross-section of the music I listen to:

Lindsey Stirling - Crystallize (Orchestral Version)
Lindsey Stirling - Roundtable Rival
La Traviata - Brindisi
Turandot - Nessun Dorma
Il Barbiere di Siviglia - Largo al Factotum
Carmina Burana - O Fortuna
Carmen - Votre Toast
The Planets - Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity
The Planets - Mars, the Bringer of War
Ravel - Bolero
Grieg - Peer Gynt
The Mediaeval Baebes - Temptasyon
Tron: Legacy - The Grid
Nox Arcana - Spellbound
John Williams - The Raiders March
Pinkzebra - Larger Than Life
Can't Stop Won't Stop - Up Up and Away
Down With Webster - Everybody's Angel
Billy Idol - Cradle of Love
Genesis - Land of Confusion
Maynard Ferguson - Birdland
Glenn Miller - In The Mood
Norman Greenbaum - Spirit in the Sky
Kenny Loggins - Danger Zone
Queen - One Vision
Twisted Sister - We're Not Gonna Take It
Gerard McMann - Cry Little Sister

Which pair should I get?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 19 November 2014, 18:58:35
Are you going to be using them only at your computer or outside too?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Wed, 19 November 2014, 19:09:41
Only indoors or on my property. I have earbuds for mobile usage.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 November 2014, 21:41:12
Only indoors or on my property. I have earbuds for mobile usage.

but you can still use the fiio with your earbuds
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: C5Allroad on Wed, 19 November 2014, 21:50:38


Oh thanks...
I'll be reading into this stuff, kind of new to audio. Saw the Asus u7... Any good?

Personally I've been interested a lot more in the AIO devices that have portable player capability and usb audio as well. The main one right now is the fiio stuff like the x3/x5

the only asus audio product I owned was the U3 and it was pretty good for the price but if you're looking for simplicity I definitely recommend the fiio products as they generally do very well at the prices they charge

Hmm...
AIO? Atomic intermolecular overear headphones?

I don't exactly need portability as this would be mainly for my desktop :)

AIO - All In One

A digital audio player that doubles as a DAC and headphone amplifier.  The holy trifecta.
Oh lol.
I might end up buying a U7, or fiio, with an ath m50. Its all kind of pricey lol.

Deciding on a budget you're comfortable with is better than overspending and having to sell or have regrets later

You can always check out the used market. An m50 (not x) would be around $75 used at fair value depending on usage and an x3 as low as $120 which would put you at around $200+shipping as a realistic number if you keep your eyes open.
Once I figure out what the **** ohms and what a sample rate does. I'll be looking lol.
What's the difference between the X and non X?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 19 November 2014, 22:01:14
Okay, question time:

Beyerdynamic DT880 Premiums or Beyerdynamic DT770 Pros?

As an aside, this is a cross-section of the music I listen to:

Lindsey Stirling - Crystallize (Orchestral Version)
Lindsey Stirling - Roundtable Rival
La Traviata - Brindisi
Turandot - Nessun Dorma
Il Barbiere di Siviglia - Largo al Factotum
Carmina Burana - O Fortuna
Carmen - Votre Toast
The Planets - Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity
The Planets - Mars, the Bringer of War
Ravel - Bolero
Grieg - Peer Gynt
The Mediaeval Baebes - Temptasyon
Tron: Legacy - The Grid
Nox Arcana - Spellbound
John Williams - The Raiders March
Pinkzebra - Larger Than Life
Can't Stop Won't Stop - Up Up and Away
Down With Webster - Everybody's Angel
Billy Idol - Cradle of Love
Genesis - Land of Confusion
Maynard Ferguson - Birdland
Glenn Miller - In The Mood
Norman Greenbaum - Spirit in the Sky
Kenny Loggins - Danger Zone
Queen - One Vision
Twisted Sister - We're Not Gonna Take It
Gerard McMann - Cry Little Sister

Which pair should I get?

Amazing choice in music!!!

You should also try some AudioMachine and Two steps from Hell.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Wed, 19 November 2014, 22:21:08
Only indoors or on my property. I have earbuds for mobile usage.

but you can still use the fiio with your earbuds

Yes, I can.

Actually, I probably wouldn't, as other than as a hands-free device for my phone while I'm driving, the earbuds are only used for workouts. I'd rather not take a fiio on a run, y'know...

For work, I have a pair of Polk Audio Buckles. They're good, but they stay at work.

The DT770s or DT880s would be for home music immersion, as I currently live in an apartment and would not want to make enemies of the neighbors by blasting loud music at 4 am. Just gotta decide which ones to get.

Okay, question time:

Beyerdynamic DT880 Premiums or Beyerdynamic DT770 Pros?

As an aside, this is a cross-section of the music I listen to:

Lindsey Stirling - Crystallize (Orchestral Version)
Lindsey Stirling - Roundtable Rival
La Traviata - Brindisi
Turandot - Nessun Dorma
Il Barbiere di Siviglia - Largo al Factotum
Carmina Burana - O Fortuna
Carmen - Votre Toast
The Planets - Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity
The Planets - Mars, the Bringer of War
Ravel - Bolero
Grieg - Peer Gynt
The Mediaeval Baebes - Temptasyon
Tron: Legacy - The Grid
Nox Arcana - Spellbound
John Williams - The Raiders March
Pinkzebra - Larger Than Life
Can't Stop Won't Stop - Up Up and Away
Down With Webster - Everybody's Angel
Billy Idol - Cradle of Love
Genesis - Land of Confusion
Maynard Ferguson - Birdland
Glenn Miller - In The Mood
Norman Greenbaum - Spirit in the Sky
Kenny Loggins - Danger Zone
Queen - One Vision
Twisted Sister - We're Not Gonna Take It
Gerard McMann - Cry Little Sister

Which pair should I get?

Amazing choice in music!!!

You should also try some AudioMachine and Two steps from Hell.

Thank you! I actually have AudioMachine and TSFH in my library.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 19 November 2014, 22:39:30
I would go 880 in your case. There is a wide variety of music and 880s cover more genres than the 770s in my opinion. Also why get closed headphones for home use?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Wed, 19 November 2014, 22:48:24
Okay, so is there any inherent increase in quality between getting the 600 ohm vs the 250 ohm set?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 19 November 2014, 23:03:15
I know you haven't mentioned them but I would like to point out the 990's as well. Fully open which makes for an excellent soundstage.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 19 November 2014, 23:31:58
Okay, so is there any inherent increase in quality between getting the 600 ohm vs the 250 ohm set?

Some say there is. Some say there isn't. In my opinion I doubt there is a difference. Get the cheaper version.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Wed, 19 November 2014, 23:51:32
Okay, so is there any inherent increase in quality between getting the 600 ohm vs the 250 ohm set?

Some say there is. Some say there isn't. In my opinion I doubt there is a difference. Get the cheaper version.

There is no price difference. The DT880s are currently on Massdrop with the 32, 250, and 600 Ohm versions for the same price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 20 November 2014, 12:21:12
Okay, so is there any inherent increase in quality between getting the 600 ohm vs the 250 ohm set?

The quality of the headphones themselves will be identical. Any changes in sound would only be due to damping factor if, for example, you were using an amp with a high output impedance.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Thu, 20 November 2014, 12:53:42
Okay, question time:

Beyerdynamic DT880 Premiums or Beyerdynamic DT770 Pros?


I'm not a fan of the Beyer DTs but I'd say go for the 880s as well. They're the most balanced of the three and the soundstage is decent.

The 250 Ω version is the generally the sweet spot for home use, although they do require a dedicated amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Fri, 21 November 2014, 11:57:01
So I have sorted the headband issue on my Q701's!

Went and got some synthetic leather stuff at a hobby store yesterday and tried my hand at sewing with a machine and by hand. It is not the neatest job in the world but I am more than happy with the results!

Here are a few pics:
Offending bumps
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-33K1u15gkIY/VG3bnujFTWI/AAAAAAAAEH8/yLAR1VQAy2A/w1598-h904-no/IMAG0058.jpg)

Be gone!
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lih2xf7bdf0/VG97uv2-YoI/AAAAAAAAEI8/GetGw90dj2I/w524-h927-no/IMG-20141120-WA0002.jpeg)

Cut material to shape and machine sew up one side
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6HQ-yhHwu4E/VG97s-umS5I/AAAAAAAAEIw/VM8t2Gwa13U/w524-h927-no/IMG-20141120-WA0006.jpeg)

(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hX9jeo4KCcQ/VG97qKu8G9I/AAAAAAAAEIk/tKIRjSgstnc/w524-h927-no/IMG-20141120-WA0008.jpeg)

Padding in then hand sew up the other side, never done this kind of thing before so its not hugely neat but does the job!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q2bu38oUNR4/VG5C672vAWI/AAAAAAAAEHM/TMiJuuRRCJU/w524-h927-no/IMAG0059.jpg)

Finished product!
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-TmIZqPstKVs/VG97ft52SHI/AAAAAAAAEIM/sC7-XxySuHI/w524-h927-no/IMG-20141120-WA0023.jpeg)

Bit of a shame I couldn't get hold of black material but I just could not go another day without sorting this out. My midmic 4.0 also turned up so I could fully switch to the new setup rather than having my pc350's around my kneck to use the mic haha.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 23 November 2014, 05:45:22
Nice DIY mod there! ;D What's wrong with those bump? Uncomfortable?

Meanwhile, I'm going a tad overboard with my audio purchases, I'm already getting an Audeze LCD2.2 and a Fostex HP-A4 DAC/AMP, I will also be getting an iFi iCAN Headphone amp....and am in the process of negotiating for a Sennheiser HD700  :eek:. Somebody stop me! :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 23 November 2014, 08:14:51
Nice DIY mod there! ;D What's wrong with those bump? Uncomfortable?

Meanwhile, I'm going a tad overboard with my audio purchases, I'm already getting an Audeze LCD2.2 and a Fostex HP-A4 DAC/AMP, I will also be getting an iFi iCAN Headphone amp....and am in the process of negotiating for a Sennheiser HD700  :eek:. Somebody stop me! :p

Stop right there! The hd700 sucks! You definitely need the hd800 =P

As for the bumps I personally have a sensitive spot right on the top of my head so that if headbands such as this one put too much pressure on the top it hurts, quite a bit. I had the less elegant solution of wrapping the band with Kleenex but this way is nice.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Evo_Spec on Sun, 23 November 2014, 08:23:33
So I have sorted the headband issue on my Q701's!

Went and got some synthetic leather stuff at a hobby store yesterday and tried my hand at sewing with a machine and by hand. It is not the neatest job in the world but I am more than happy with the results!

Here are a few pics:
Offending bumps
Show Image
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-33K1u15gkIY/VG3bnujFTWI/AAAAAAAAEH8/yLAR1VQAy2A/w1598-h904-no/IMAG0058.jpg)


Be gone!
Show Image
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lih2xf7bdf0/VG97uv2-YoI/AAAAAAAAEI8/GetGw90dj2I/w524-h927-no/IMG-20141120-WA0002.jpeg)


Cut material to shape and machine sew up one side
Show Image
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6HQ-yhHwu4E/VG97s-umS5I/AAAAAAAAEIw/VM8t2Gwa13U/w524-h927-no/IMG-20141120-WA0006.jpeg)


Show Image
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hX9jeo4KCcQ/VG97qKu8G9I/AAAAAAAAEIk/tKIRjSgstnc/w524-h927-no/IMG-20141120-WA0008.jpeg)


Padding in then hand sew up the other side, never done this kind of thing before so its not hugely neat but does the job!
Show Image
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q2bu38oUNR4/VG5C672vAWI/AAAAAAAAEHM/TMiJuuRRCJU/w524-h927-no/IMAG0059.jpg)


Finished product!
Show Image
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-TmIZqPstKVs/VG97ft52SHI/AAAAAAAAEIM/sC7-XxySuHI/w524-h927-no/IMG-20141120-WA0023.jpeg)


Bit of a shame I couldn't get hold of black material but I just could not go another day without sorting this out. My midmic 4.0 also turned up so I could fully switch to the new setup rather than having my pc350's around my kneck to use the mic haha.

Nice work! I added some adhesive foam pieces since i wanted mine to be reversible
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 23 November 2014, 10:00:27
Stop right there! The hd700 sucks! You definitely need the hd800 =P
Uh......if you'd not seen it, back at pg 89, I had posted a pic of the HD800 which I currently have....the soundstage on that beast is simply outta this world. I'm listening to some tracks, swapping out cans between my HD800 and the DT990/600, simply no comparison! I've read that the HD700 has better bass, though not as detailed as the HD800, and due to its narrower soundstage and faster low frequency decay, it's more suitable for faster paced music. That is is somewhat 'darker' than its beefier sibling is noted, still curious about it though. I'm trying to buy it for about 500USD, I can actually get a Beyerdynamic T1 for a tad more if I choose to go that way...yes, the T1 is a better deal even at 550USD, but I so like the Senns I've gotten this far (including a HD555 with the HD595 foam mod).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: reddeth on Mon, 24 November 2014, 17:43:19
So after using a set of Superlux HD668B with velour pads for about a year, I finally upgraded to a pair of Audio-Technica ATH-M50X's, so much nicer! Don't get me wrong, the Superlux headphones - for a set of $50 headphones - are phenomenal. But the Audio Technicas fit my head much better and are not an open headphone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 24 November 2014, 18:14:10
What do you all think of Massdrop's K7XX headphones? $200 for essentially the K712/K702 hybrid.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 24 November 2014, 18:17:10
What do you all think of Massdrop's K7XX headphones? $200 for essentially the K712/K702 hybrid.

Seems like a good deal if it is something you are looking for. It is cheaper than the annie edition so might as well grab one of these MD editions, if you are looking at the annie edition.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Mon, 24 November 2014, 18:22:57
I am a little salty about the Massdrop K7XX's because I bought the Q701's from them not long ago. I would have waited for these if I knew they were coming, not even from a sound point of view but the fact they aren't in a look at me green and don't come with a skull destroying headband. I joined the drop earlier then decided better of it as I am fairly sure they are near enough the same headphone as the Q701 and I can't really justify two of a headphone that is 99% the same.

I think I will grab some Beyers of some description, I have used DT770's before and never worn another set of cans as comfortable before, I presume the comfort is similar across their product range.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 24 November 2014, 18:34:00
I am a little salty about the Massdrop K7XX's because I bought the Q701's from them not long ago. I would have waited for these if I knew they were coming, not even from a sound point of view but the fact they aren't in a look at me green and don't come with a skull destroying headband. I joined the drop earlier then decided better of it as I am fairly sure they are near enough the same headphone as the Q701 and I can't really justify two of a headphone that is 99% the same.

I think I will grab some Beyers of some description, I have used DT770's before and never worn another set of cans as comfortable before, I presume the comfort is similar across their product range.

I have a big head and my 990s are the most comfortable headphones I have ever had, after I stretched them out a bit. The velour pads are amazing!  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 24 November 2014, 18:43:56
I like how the 7xx looks more than how it should sound since it's styled after the annies and 712pro (which was a little boring sounding to me).  But it's a stellar price for the headphone it aims to be.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rodgaroon on Mon, 24 November 2014, 18:48:08
The 7xx, should be good. However; a little birdie told me 8xx are in the works for the massdrop community. looks like $900 headphones for for $400. I enjoy my Q701 as much as HD600 and HD650. so if I do upgrade it will be at a future date.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 24 November 2014, 19:42:09
Hmm. I should ask lekashman next time I see him about the 8XX if that is true I will definitely pass on this.

Do you guys think that the AKG sound signature is different enough from the Sennheiser and Beyerdynamic sound to pick it up?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Mon, 24 November 2014, 19:57:56
The 7xx, should be good. However; a little birdie told me 8xx are in the works for the massdrop community. looks like $900 headphones for for $400. I enjoy my Q701 as much as HD600 and HD650. so if I do upgrade it will be at a future date.

The only issue I have with Massdrop is the import duty and VAT I have to pay on top. It came to either £28 or £38 for the Q701's. The K8XX will be quite a chunk more. However, They are like £1000 to buy in the UK so if its $400 then its a huge saving anyway and will more than likely jump in on that.

I didn't think this headphone business was going to be as addictive as keyboards but I think it's worse! haha.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SlotH42 on Mon, 24 November 2014, 21:11:10
I'm Thinking of selling my lime green 701's and buying the 7xx , worth it?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 24 November 2014, 21:46:15
Depends. Is the extra effort + small bit of money required to upgrade to something slightly better? Also if you enjoy the Q701 sound signature will the 7XX be better?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 24 November 2014, 21:52:50
Hmm. I should ask lekashman next time I see him about the 8XX if that is true I will definitely pass on this.

Do you guys think that the AKG sound signature is different enough from the Sennheiser and Beyerdynamic sound to pick it up?

Yes.  In fact, I prefer it to the senn, but kinda like the beyer sound more.

A senn<<akg<beyer for my preferences
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Mon, 24 November 2014, 23:43:55
Hmm. I should ask lekashman next time I see him about the 8XX if that is true I will definitely pass on this.

Do you guys think that the AKG sound signature is different enough from the Sennheiser and Beyerdynamic sound to pick it up?

Yes.  In fact, I prefer it to the senn, but kinda like the beyer sound more.

A senn<<akg<beyer for my preferences

Heresy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Tue, 25 November 2014, 04:30:29
A senn<<akg<beyer for my preferences

Someone likes his treble!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Tue, 25 November 2014, 10:42:56
A senn<<akg<beyer for my preferences

Someone likes his treble!

I think that too much bass ruins music. Same with treble. Don't get me wrong, a little bass is great, but when the bass is cranked up so hard that it distorts everything else about the music, then it's too much.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 25 November 2014, 11:08:20
too much bass?? ?? ??

you shut your mouth!

i want my nose to bleed from the vibrations, every single time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Tue, 25 November 2014, 11:20:18
too much bass?? ?? ??

you shut your mouth!

i want my nose to bleed from the vibrations, every single time.

And when you die of extreme bloodloss after having gone deaf years before, I will be sitting idly by, my feet kicked up on an ottoman, listening to Peer Gynt and smiling lazily.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 25 November 2014, 11:21:04
i'll die happy, all that matters!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 25 November 2014, 21:43:03
I think that too much bass ruins music. Same with treble. Don't get me wrong, a little bass is great, but when the bass is cranked up so hard that it distorts everything else about the music, then it's too much.
You MUST be referencing Beats by Dre. ;) I've tried both Beats and Razer Kraken (Kraken Forge to be precise) and with these cans, it's all about da bass! >:D I had a Razer Black Shark which I'd basically gave away when I bundled it with my Logitech Z623 when I sold it away. That headset had muted mids and highs, and it's all about the bass with it. Terribad purchase on my part..... :-[
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mr.squishy on Tue, 25 November 2014, 22:03:15
Not an Audiophile by any means but I'm completely content with my wired Afterglow headset. I have the green color, and the LED's match my computer :D It doesn't sound bad either, it's actually pretty balanced if you don't use any of the boosted modifiers.
(http://royalflushmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/long-lit.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Tue, 25 November 2014, 22:46:21
I think that too much bass ruins music. Same with treble. Don't get me wrong, a little bass is great, but when the bass is cranked up so hard that it distorts everything else about the music, then it's too much.
You MUST be referencing Beats by Dre. ;) I've tried both Beats and Razer Kraken (Kraken Forge to be precise) and with these cans, it's all about da bass! >:D I had a Razer Black Shark which I'd basically gave away when I bundled it with my Logitech Z623 when I sold it away. That headset had muted mids and highs, and it's all about the bass with it. Terribad purchase on my part..... :-[

Beats are the worst offenders in the headphone category, yes, but I generally don't like too much bass in my cans due to the fact that it ruins classical and jazz, my musical genres of choice.

A good, punchy bass is wonderful... when the music you are listening to calls for it. Bass is excellent when listening to The Commodores rocking out Brick House, but when you're listening to "Libiamo ne' lieti calici" from Verdi's La Traviata, bass is a horrible thing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Wed, 26 November 2014, 00:27:37

I think that too much bass ruins music. Same with treble. Don't get me wrong, a little bass is great, but when the bass is cranked up so hard that it distorts everything else about the music, then it's too much.

Oh, I agree totally. My preferred sound signature is neutral-warm, which is why I have the HD600 and the MrSpeakers Mad Dogs. AKGs and Beyers tend to be too analytical for me, but to each his own :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Wed, 26 November 2014, 07:23:50
OK, I have quite a specific request.

I have a set of custom ear plugs (the same shape and size of CIEMs, just solid plastic) and I am looking for some headphones to fit inside them.

What I did before, was use a pair of apple In Ear headphones, take the rubber inserts off, and the actual driver fitted nicely inside. I have no idea what size the drivers were/are on the apple in ears, but I was wondering if there are any better ones I could get that are the same size?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Wed, 26 November 2014, 09:51:47
anyone in here play fps games with the q701 and could compare it to the ad700?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Wed, 26 November 2014, 18:31:04
Well I wish I didn't check Amazon earlier...I ended up grabbing a pair of Beyerdyanmic DT770 Pro 250 Ohm because they were in the black Friday sale. They worked out to be £89 which is around $140. Thought I might as well add them to my what is now becoming collection of cans.

I also think I will be grabbing those AKG K8XX's whenever they arise on Massdrop, if that $400 price tag is correct then that should be an utter bargain for a set of cans worth near enough £1000.

Anyway, I guess with the addition of the DT770's I will see if I enjoy bass. I think at the very least it should be a "fun" headphone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Wed, 26 November 2014, 21:30:37
I have posted this over at head fi but thought I would post it here also
 
Some have said replacing the Q701 ear pads with the K712/K702 Anniversary ear pads results in better sound.
I have just received a quote from akg/harmon usa for them and a headband from the k702.
 
Here is the info from AKG
 
5021871                $47.55 each pad                 CUSHION, K 712,K702_Anniversary
2458M98030       $73.59EA              Black inner headband for the K702 without the nubs/bumps/etc with the blue stitching.

Contact marlon.gonzalez@harman.com if you want to order these.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 26 November 2014, 23:13:08
Gosh, if the ear pads for the Anni cost about 48USD, I'd hate to think how much the replacement pads for my HD800 would cost. :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 26 November 2014, 23:32:45
Gosh, if the ear pads for the Anni cost about 48USD, I'd hate to think how much the replacement pads for my HD800 would cost. :eek:

I believe it was $150 or 200...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 27 November 2014, 02:27:39
I believe it was $150 or 200...
*grabs chest in utter  :eek: *
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 27 November 2014, 03:22:48
I paid $100 when I had to replace a pair about a year ago.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lpwl on Thu, 27 November 2014, 06:19:34
Well I wish I didn't check Amazon earlier...I ended up grabbing a pair of Beyerdyanmic DT770 Pro 250 Ohm because they were in the black Friday sale. They worked out to be �89 which is around $140. Thought I might as well add them to my what is now becoming collection of cans.

I also think I will be grabbing those AKG K8XX's whenever they arise on Massdrop, if that $400 price tag is correct then that should be an utter bargain for a set of cans worth near enough �1000.

Anyway, I guess with the addition of the DT770's I will see if I enjoy bass. I think at the very least it should be a "fun" headphone.

I'm not sure if you'll be able to order those AKG K8XX's (see below) from UK

(http://i.imgur.com/ITgbIrC.png)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MGH on Thu, 27 November 2014, 07:11:36
Whats a good sub $50 IEM? I use a Sennheiser 595 with Fiio E07K DAC. Mainly want comfort and sturdiness, want something that will last a while. Don't really care for super good sound quality or noise isolation.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Evo_Spec on Thu, 27 November 2014, 07:14:45
Well I wish I didn't check Amazon earlier...I ended up grabbing a pair of Beyerdyanmic DT770 Pro 250 Ohm because they were in the black Friday sale. They worked out to be �89 which is around $140. Thought I might as well add them to my what is now becoming collection of cans.

I also think I will be grabbing those AKG K8XX's whenever they arise on Massdrop, if that $400 price tag is correct then that should be an utter bargain for a set of cans worth near enough �1000.

Anyway, I guess with the addition of the DT770's I will see if I enjoy bass. I think at the very least it should be a "fun" headphone.

I'm not sure if you'll be able to order those AKG K8XX's (see below) from UK

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/ITgbIrC.png)


Really glad i'm not so much into headphones now or else this would have killed me, not to mention i have Q701's and am extremely happy with them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 27 November 2014, 07:29:59
As I'd said, I'm not a fan of the AKG signature sound and I'm somewhat of a Sennheiser fanboy. I feel sorry for those wanting the AKG on massdrop to be shipped internationally, hopefully, there'd be other great cans on massdrop.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 27 November 2014, 11:01:32
As I'd said, I'm not a fan of the AKG signature sound and I'm somewhat of a Sennheiser fanboy. I feel sorry for those wanting the AKG on massdrop to be shipped internationally, hopefully, there'd be other great cans on massdrop.

For the price it's hard to beat AKG if you can't afford the hd800 xP

I just got the k551 in the mail and it's more or less what I expected. Very neutral sound with spacing. Maybe lacking some emphasis in the bass but I'll see if I can EQ that a few points upwards.

Maybe some pictures and impressions with a review to follow since I've been itching to review something audio related properly xD

Just a question, do people like video or written reviews? (Or a combination or no preference?)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Thu, 27 November 2014, 12:31:58
I have posted this over at head fi but thought I would post it here also
 
Some have said replacing the Q701 ear pads with the K712/K702 Anniversary ear pads results in better sound.
I have just received a quote from akg/harmon usa for them and a headband from the k702.
 
Here is the info from AKG
 
5021871                $47.55 each pad                 CUSHION, K 712,K702_Anniversary
2458M98030       $73.59EA              Black inner headband for the K702 without the nubs/bumps/etc with the blue stitching.

Contact marlon.gonzalez@harman.com if you want to order these.

**** that, assimilate or die. These grooves on my scalp will probably never fade away
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 27 November 2014, 12:59:30
As I'd said, I'm not a fan of the AKG signature sound and I'm somewhat of a Sennheiser fanboy. I feel sorry for those wanting the AKG on massdrop to be shipped internationally, hopefully, there'd be other great cans on massdrop.

For the price it's hard to beat AKG if you can't afford the hd800 xP

I just got the k551 in the mail and it's more or less what I expected. Very neutral sound with spacing. Maybe lacking some emphasis in the bass but I'll see if I can EQ that a few points upwards.

Maybe some pictures and impressions with a review to follow since I've been itching to review something audio related properly xD

Just a question, do people like video or written reviews? (Or a combination or no preference?)

HD600.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MGH on Thu, 27 November 2014, 13:40:16
Anybody use the Sennheiser CX 300?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Thu, 27 November 2014, 15:12:39
Gosh, if the ear pads for the Anni cost about 48USD, I'd hate to think how much the replacement pads for my HD800 would cost. :eek:
they are 48 each so 96 total. they are sold as 1 piece.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Thu, 27 November 2014, 15:42:16
I am kinda glad I backed out of the K7XX anyway as they won't be that different. I was in the first 200 when I initially got in on the drop, so going by that message from Massdrop I would have been able to get them. I see what you are saying with the K8XX though. I have friends who live in the US so I will probably ask them if I can ship to theirs and them just bring them with them when they come back to the UK as they are back fairly frequently anyway. Thanks for the info though  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Thu, 27 November 2014, 15:59:38



For the price it's hard to beat AKG if you can't afford the hd800 xP


HD600.

+1

The only AKGs that come close are the K712.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 27 November 2014, 18:36:08
As I'd said, I'm not a fan of the AKG signature sound and I'm somewhat of a Sennheiser fanboy. I feel sorry for those wanting the AKG on massdrop to be shipped internationally, hopefully, there'd be other great cans on massdrop.

For the price it's hard to beat AKG if you can't afford the hd800 xP

I just got the k551 in the mail and it's more or less what I expected. Very neutral sound with spacing. Maybe lacking some emphasis in the bass but I'll see if I can EQ that a few points upwards.

Maybe some pictures and impressions with a review to follow since I've been itching to review something audio related properly xD

Just a question, do people like video or written reviews? (Or a combination or no preference?)

HD600.

Didn't like it nearly as much last time I tried it, though I never owned it
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Fri, 28 November 2014, 00:04:26
As I'd said, I'm not a fan of the AKG signature sound and I'm somewhat of a Sennheiser fanboy. I feel sorry for those wanting the AKG on massdrop to be shipped internationally, hopefully, there'd be other great cans on massdrop.

For the price it's hard to beat AKG if you can't afford the hd800 xP

I just got the k551 in the mail and it's more or less what I expected. Very neutral sound with spacing. Maybe lacking some emphasis in the bass but I'll see if I can EQ that a few points upwards.

Maybe some pictures and impressions with a review to follow since I've been itching to review something audio related properly xD

Just a question, do people like video or written reviews? (Or a combination or no preference?)

I like to watch videos of the reviews personally but I hate when people throw in 3-5 minutes of bull before they get to the meat of the review.
Most reviewers also do not go into actually zooming in close enough on the product to show the actual quality/build.
They have the camera zoomed way out and are afraid to show us the earpads, drivers, headbands, adjustment of the fit, etc.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 28 November 2014, 00:16:36
As I'd said, I'm not a fan of the AKG signature sound and I'm somewhat of a Sennheiser fanboy. I feel sorry for those wanting the AKG on massdrop to be shipped internationally, hopefully, there'd be other great cans on massdrop.

For the price it's hard to beat AKG if you can't afford the hd800 xP

I just got the k551 in the mail and it's more or less what I expected. Very neutral sound with spacing. Maybe lacking some emphasis in the bass but I'll see if I can EQ that a few points upwards.

Maybe some pictures and impressions with a review to follow since I've been itching to review something audio related properly xD

Just a question, do people like video or written reviews? (Or a combination or no preference?)

I like to watch videos of the reviews personally but I hate when people throw in 3-5 minutes of bull before they get to the meat of the review.
Most reviewers also do not go into actually zooming in close enough on the product to show the actual quality/build.
They have the camera zoomed way out and are afraid to show us the earpads, drivers, headbands, adjustment of the fit, etc.

ah I love going close up! I have a macro lens specifically for that!

A lot of my real life friends are pushing me to make video reviews so I might try my hand at that so more feedback about what people like to see in these reviews would be great.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 28 November 2014, 12:48:21
For people in the US, Amazon is selling the HD598s for $99. An absolute steal...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 28 November 2014, 13:24:17
For people in the US, Amazon is selling the HD598s for $99. An absolute steal...

Freaking lightning sales...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 28 November 2014, 13:26:50
For people in the US, Amazon is selling the HD598s for $99. An absolute steal...

Freaking lightning sales...

Does that deal answer your question on what pair of headphones your getting next tj?  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 28 November 2014, 13:30:46
For people in the US, Amazon is selling the HD598s for $99. An absolute steal...

Freaking lightning sales...

Does that deal answer your question on what pair of headphones your getting next tj?  :p

I grabbed a pair of used ma900, but can't pass up good senns for $100.  The problem, however, is that the deal has sold out twice now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Fri, 28 November 2014, 19:54:05
Got my Beyers in the post today ;D

The collection is coming along nicely. I think I will probably be going in to more expensive cans after this though...Will there really be a discernible difference in audio quality from say my AKG Q701's to something like the AK K812 / HD700/800 / Beyer T1's etc?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 28 November 2014, 19:56:15
Just heard from the seller, seems he's available today to deal, so I'll be back later with a pic or two of the Fostex HP-A4 headphone DAC/AMP. This unit is capable of DSD64 2.8mhz/DSD128 5.6mhz (my iFi Micro iDSD ca do DSD512 I believe). I got it because it is being sold at a very good price and DSD support is a big deal for me since I've amassed 1.4TB of DSD64 files....thousands of DSD64 songs to listen to!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 28 November 2014, 20:03:28
Got my Beyers in the post today ;D

The collection is coming along nicely. I think I will probably be going in to more expensive cans after this though...Will there really be a discernible difference in audio quality from say my AKG Q701's to something like the AK K812 / HD700/800 / Beyer T1's etc?

Just be careful haha. What is in your collection now? You may just want to stop buying lo-fi and mid fi and just sell them off for one TOTL.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Fri, 28 November 2014, 21:59:25
Will there really be a discernible difference in audio quality from say my AKG Q701's to something like the AK K812 / HD700/800 / Beyer T1's etc?

They're all a definite step up from the Q701, although I'd skip on the HD700 and the K812.

Just bear in mind that as soon as you cross into >$500 territory the rate of diminishing returns kicks in hard.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 28 November 2014, 23:23:29
Will there really be a discernible difference in audio quality from say my AKG Q701's to something like the AK K812 / HD700/800 / Beyer T1's etc?

They're all a definite step up from the Q701, although I'd skip on the HD700 and the K812.

Just bear in mind that as soon as you cross into >$500 territory the rate of diminishing returns kicks in hard.

I would have to disagree.  I feel as though the majority of headphones to buy are either <$300 or $600<.  The dead-zone in the middle is probably where the most diminishing returns lay.  Ask anyone who's dipped their toes into the $1000 budget pool.  From CIEMs to high quality over ears there is a BIG difference in the experience comparatively to anything in the $600 range.  Yah it's unfortunate but that's just how these companies compete.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 28 November 2014, 23:53:29
Will there really be a discernible difference in audio quality from say my AKG Q701's to something like the AK K812 / HD700/800 / Beyer T1's etc?

They're all a definite step up from the Q701, although I'd skip on the HD700 and the K812.

Just bear in mind that as soon as you cross into >$500 territory the rate of diminishing returns kicks in hard.

I would have to disagree.  I feel as though the majority of headphones to buy are either <$300 or $600<.  The dead-zone in the middle is probably where the most diminishing returns lay.  Ask anyone who's dipped their toes into the $1000 budget pool.  From CIEMs to high quality over ears there is a BIG difference in the experience comparatively to anything in the $600 range.  Yah it's unfortunate but that's just how these companies compete.

Binge, can I ask what your favourite headphones are for <$300 then? And for $600<?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 29 November 2014, 02:31:37
This makes me want to re-think buying the K7XX... I mean I already have the T90 and the HD650... Plus the HD598 but I basically gave them to my girl. Hmm...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Sat, 29 November 2014, 03:14:10
This makes me want to re-think buying the K7XX... I mean I already have the T90 and the HD650... Plus the HD598 but I basically gave them to my girl. Hmm...

HD 650 > K7XX.  K7XX have little bass extension and an artificially wide sounding sound stage.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Sat, 29 November 2014, 07:37:55
Got my Beyers in the post today ;D

The collection is coming along nicely. I think I will probably be going in to more expensive cans after this though...Will there really be a discernible difference in audio quality from say my AKG Q701's to something like the AK K812 / HD700/800 / Beyer T1's etc?

Just be careful haha. What is in your collection now? You may just want to stop buying lo-fi and mid fi and just sell them off for one TOTL.

My collection isn't anything special by any means, but I bought probably the best bits just this month after deciding to dip my toes so to speak.

I have: Fostex T7's (probably not worth mentioning), Sennheiser HD555's, PC350SE's, Beyerdynamic DT770's, AKG Q701's and an Epiphany Acoustics O2 Dac/Amp.

I think for me to go further in to the more expensive territory I will have to find somewhere I can listen to them before just spending a decent chunk. I will probably give it a rest till the new year now as xmas and stuff can be an expensive time :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Sat, 29 November 2014, 08:02:58
Will there really be a discernible difference in audio quality from say my AKG Q701's to something like the AK K812 / HD700/800 / Beyer T1's etc?
Just bear in mind that as soon as you cross into >$500 territory the rate of diminishing returns kicks in hard.

I would have to disagree.  I feel as though the majority of headphones to buy are either <$300 or $600<.  The dead-zone in the middle is probably where the most diminishing returns lay.  Ask anyone who's dipped their toes into the $1000 budget pool.  From CIEMs to high quality over ears there is a BIG difference in the experience comparatively to anything in the $600 range.  Yah it's unfortunate but that's just how these companies compete.

I meant that diminishing returns kicks in above the HD600/HD650/K712 tier (which means $400-500 where I live :(). But yeah, after that there's a huge gap until you reach the $1,200+ Audeze/HD800/Beyer T1 price bracket.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: luisbg on Mon, 01 December 2014, 09:11:55
I use some Monster Inspiration which I purchased mostly for the noise cancelation since I fly frequently.

Can someone convince me to buy some Audio-Technica ATH-M50X for work?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 01 December 2014, 10:15:51
Can someone convince me to buy some Audio-Technica ATH-M50X for work?

Why would someone need to convince you to buy something?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: luisbg on Mon, 01 December 2014, 10:20:30
Can someone convince me to buy some Audio-Technica ATH-M50X for work?

Why would someone need to convince you to buy something?

Because I want an upgrade but can't justify it myself, so maybe somebody else can  ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Mon, 01 December 2014, 11:20:37
Can someone convince me to buy some Audio-Technica ATH-M50X for work?

Why would someone need to convince you to buy something?

Because I want an upgrade but can't justify it myself, so maybe somebody else can  ;)

I have not used M50X's myself, but I would be inclined to suggest Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro's over the M50X's. I am fairly sure they are also a similar price and a superior headphone IMO.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 01 December 2014, 11:37:11
I have not used M50X's myself, but I would be inclined to suggest Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro's over the M50X's. I am fairly sure they are also a similar price and a superior headphone IMO.
Agreed, the ATH-M50/50X are so overrated, it isn't funny at all. Haven't heard them myslef, but I'm inclined to agree with Freebird that the DT770 Pro would be a better choice. I have the DT990/600 Premium, I can honestly say it's a kickbutt headphones for games and music......and movies.

I'll be back later with pics of some new toys I have gotten, and will get by later today (in my neck of the woods, it's the wee hour of the morning here so I'd hitting the sack soon).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 01 December 2014, 11:39:44
dt770s 80ohm were on sale at guitarcenter for 129 last night. not sure if sale is still available.  was able to get a pair and you could get them in store also

i had the 250 version and i found them way better than m50s and a million times more comfortable. m50 too damn tight. but i stupidly got rid of them for mad dogs. really regret that move.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: luisbg on Mon, 01 December 2014, 11:45:59
Can someone convince me to buy some Audio-Technica ATH-M50X for work?

Why would someone need to convince you to buy something?

Because I want an upgrade but can't justify it myself, so maybe somebody else can  ;)

I have not used M50X's myself, but I would be inclined to suggest Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro's over the M50X's. I am fairly sure they are also a similar price and a superior headphone IMO.

Beyerdynamic seems to be very popular in Massdrop. Going to do some research.

How would they compare to the Monster Inspiration?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Protato_Tubby on Mon, 01 December 2014, 15:06:23
Has anyone had any experience with the Brainwavs HM5 http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B006MA9XXM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I19P2BAVDTG0UT (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B006MA9XXM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I19P2BAVDTG0UT)  ? I'd quite like to use them with a USB audio interface M-Audio M-Track 2. http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00BQ6KSN6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I1RI8OAZKQMM72 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00BQ6KSN6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I1RI8OAZKQMM72) 
Has anyone had any experience with that either?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 01 December 2014, 15:12:45
Has anyone had any experience with the Brainwavs HM5 http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B006MA9XXM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I19P2BAVDTG0UT (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B006MA9XXM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I19P2BAVDTG0UT)  ? I'd quite like to use them with a USB audio interface M-Audio M-Track 2. http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00BQ6KSN6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I1RI8OAZKQMM72 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00BQ6KSN6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I1RI8OAZKQMM72) 
Has anyone had any experience with that either?

Yeah the HM-5 is the Fischer-003.  Great headphone.  You can get it cheaper through Jaycar,

http://www.jaycar.co.uk/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&CATID=85&form=CAT2&SUBCATID=1015#4

You can run these headphones out of just about anything.  They have wonderful efficiency.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Protato_Tubby on Mon, 01 December 2014, 15:18:34
Has anyone had any experience with the Brainwavs HM5 http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B006MA9XXM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I19P2BAVDTG0UT (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B006MA9XXM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I19P2BAVDTG0UT)  ? I'd quite like to use them with a USB audio interface M-Audio M-Track 2. http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00BQ6KSN6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I1RI8OAZKQMM72 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00BQ6KSN6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HP27GYJT4QMW&coliid=I1RI8OAZKQMM72) 
Has anyone had any experience with that either?

Yeah the HM-5 is the Fischer-003.  Great headphone.  You can get it cheaper through Jaycar,

http://www.jaycar.co.uk/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&CATID=85&form=CAT2&SUBCATID=1015#4 (http://www.jaycar.co.uk/productView.asp?ID=AA2065&CATID=85&form=CAT2&SUBCATID=1015#4)

You can run these headphones out of just about anything.  They have wonderful efficiency.
Out of stock :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 01 December 2014, 17:11:31
I think I'm going to cancel my K7XX order.. It just doesn't seem worth  spending the money since I already have the T90s and the HD650s... Order #360..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 01 December 2014, 17:33:05
dt770s 80ohm were on sale at guitarcenter for 129 last night. not sure if sale is still available.  was able to get a pair and you could get them in store also

i had the 250 version and i found them way better than m50s and a million times more comfortable. m50 too damn tight. but i stupidly got rid of them for mad dogs. really regret that move.
Nice, that is an amazing deal for the 80 ohms. I got mine for something like 180 from some random ebay store a couple years ago and that was a deal compared to the other places.

They are just so comfortable I don't think I could upgrade unless I found something that felt as good as these.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 02 December 2014, 02:54:17
A few pics of my recent audio related acquisitions, first up, and Audeze LCD2.2 with a nice (and short) 3rd party cable:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/lcdside_zps7476ea3a.jpg)
Next up, a 1.5m length of 3rd party cable for my HD800
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/hd800cable_zpsff089011.jpg)
The two cans with their new cables attached
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/hd800lcd2withnewcables_zps9c2b81f0.jpg)
Last but not least, the Fostex HPA4 DAC/AMP for the LCD2, the iFi Micro iDSD DAC/AMP beside it is for the HD800
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/headphoneamps_zps3e8445e1.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 02 December 2014, 12:27:24
Damn, I have wood for woodies
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 04 December 2014, 10:38:56
Heh, there's something so secksay about wood, eh? ;) I'm still thinking of adding one more high end can to my collection, thinking it'd be either a T1, HD700 or a HE560. Just need to find one at the right price! ;D Surprisingly, contrary to what some have suggested to me, the Fostex HPA4 DAC/AMP (being weaker than the iFi Micro iDSD) can drive the LCD2 quite easily. I'm listening to a WAV rip of Enya Greatest Hits and volume is reasonably loud at about the 11 o'clock mark. The HD800 conveys a feeling of spaciousness, the LCD is definitely not wide, but with a better bass that sounds tight as well. So far, I'm pretty pleased with what I'm hearing given the money I'd spent on them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 04 December 2014, 15:10:17
my dt770s came in :D

man i love these headphones. close to the amount of bass i like without spending a ton of cash.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 04 December 2014, 20:48:06
my dt770s came in :D

man i love these headphones. close to the amount of bass i like without spending a ton of cash.
I've always been rather curious of the DT770's, closed back so it'd definitely have better bass than the open backed DT880 and DT990. I have the DT990/600 and I find the bass to be satisfactory, more airy as is the characteristic of open backed cans. It's definitely harder to drive though being 600 Ohms, but apparently, both my headphone DAC/AMP's can drive it......though for the Fostex, I'd have to hit the 1-2 o'clock mark for it to be sufficiently loud. Using the 'Hi' gain on the Fostex definitely helped and I didn't have to turn the volume knob so high. Oh yeah, the other closed back cans from Beyerdynamic, the Custom One Pro, has tremendous bass as well, so I'm on the look out for either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sygaldry on Thu, 04 December 2014, 20:58:46
Um... So I just ordered a pair of Audio Technica M50x (because it was bundled with a sound recorder that I've been eyeing for my SO's Christmas present) but know nothing about them. Paid 169-25(Mail In Rebate) for a pair of 169 dollar headphones and a 100 dollar recorder.

What's the general consensus on these?

Will they sound better than my Yuin PK2 or my UE Triple.Fi?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Thu, 04 December 2014, 22:07:18
I am going to the seattle headfi meet up on saturday and someone that is showing up is going to let me try there hd700's.
Did anyone here buy a hd700 in the black friday sale and not like them and are willing to sell them? :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 04 December 2014, 22:14:08
my dt770s came in :D

man i love these headphones. close to the amount of bass i like without spending a ton of cash.
I've always been rather curious of the DT770's, closed back so it'd definitely have better bass than the open backed DT880 and DT990. I have the DT990/600 and I find the bass to be satisfactory, more airy as is the characteristic of open backed cans. It's definitely harder to drive though being 600 Ohms, but apparently, both my headphone DAC/AMP's can drive it......though for the Fostex, I'd have to hit the 1-2 o'clock mark for it to be sufficiently loud. Using the 'Hi' gain on the Fostex definitely helped and I didn't have to turn the volume knob so high. Oh yeah, the other closed back cans from Beyerdynamic, the Custom One Pro, has tremendous bass as well, so I'm on the look out for either.

im pretty noob when it comes to headphones. i usually rely on tj to suggest stuff that i might enjoy. so far these have been my favorite headphones. im sure if i venture out of my price range i can find something better but for what i paid i love these.

plus they are comfortable. not as comfy as my ath ad700 (i swear i sometimes forget i have these on) but enough for long periods of time.

ill eventually venture out. but having to upgrade my dac and amp is also going to hurt my wallet.

anyway i dont know where i was going with this.

770s > m50s imo. especially if you dont have a tiny head.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 04 December 2014, 23:31:25
im pretty noob when it comes to headphones. i usually rely on tj to suggest stuff that i might enjoy. so far these have been my favorite headphones. im sure if i venture out of my price range i can find something better but for what i paid i love these.

plus they are comfortable. not as comfy as my ath ad700 (i swear i sometimes forget i have these on) but enough for long periods of time.

ill eventually venture out. but having to upgrade my dac and amp is also going to hurt my wallet.

anyway i dont know where i was going with this.

770s > m50s imo. especially if you dont have a tiny head.
Bah, I'm pretty noob about audio myself, so you're in good company. :thumb: I ask for advice too, but would rather make up my mind as to what I want when it comes time to pony up the deniros. There is another forum I go to that is quite intolerant of soundcards, with one particular member being something of a ****. I'd asked about a DAC/AMP for my HD800, was recommended the O2+ DAC/AMP, but I decided to go with an iFi Micros iDSD (my friend had 1.4TB of DSD64 files) because DSD support is a big factor for me.

This nasty fella called me a HeadFi sheep, and basically insulted whenever I'd posted in the audio section there. I gave up posting in the audio section there because of him. I find most forum members in many of the other forums I go to to be quite amicable and not so closed minded like that nasty 'posterior orifice'. If a guy buys a good headphones and a good soundcard like the Asus Phoebus/STX/SB Z series, to go with his just acquired headphones, are we gonna be ****s and rain on his parade saying that he'd made a mistake? I'm not that sort, I'd say he'd have been better served with a good and cheap DAC/AMP, though the soundcard would do a decent job as well.

This particular guy would be all over you for buying a soundcard, and he can be quite nasty about it. I'd spoken with other audio guys in that forum, they say that he's a young guy full of testosterone and, I feel, a chip on his shoulder. Regardless, I've remained true to my word and have not posted in the audio section there since. The folks here are really more open to different ideas and hardware to attain the sound that each individual wants, and not based on some closed concept that for good sound, only external DAC/AMP's would do.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 04 December 2014, 23:41:55
yeah i dont go on headfi. too many "experts". i end up more confused than anything.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 05 December 2014, 00:00:14
yeah i dont go on headfi. too many "experts". i end up more confused than anything.
I guess I wasn't succinct enough(my bad  :-[ ), I wasn't referring to HeadFi, that place confuses the hell outta me too, it's another pretty well-known tech forum. They're not widely known for audio, which was why I was quite ticked off with this so called 'expert' who's so  obviously delusional that he believed his opinions outweigh the person who'd ultimately pay good hard cash for it. :mad:

As for the DT770, I believe it to be better than the ATH-M50/50X (so overrated!), I've not tried the DT770 but have tried the ATH-M50 which I found to be pretty decent....perhaps I don't like its signature sound I guess. I have the ATH-AD700X and I quite like it, very airy and spacious sounding, though bass is somewhat thin.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Fri, 05 December 2014, 00:16:55


As for the DT770, I believe it to be better than the ATH-M50/50X (so overrated!), I've not tried the DT770 but have tried the ATH-M50 which I found to be pretty decent....perhaps I don't like its signature sound I guess. I have the ATH-AD700X and I quite like it, very airy and spacious sounding, though bass is somewhat thin.

The DT770 and M50x are pretty similar headphones, really. The Beyers have a less claustrophobic soundstage but they both are somewhat V-shaped, with recessed mids and exaggerated bass. The only reason people make it out to be a huge difference is because they don't have much experience with other headphones  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 05 December 2014, 00:25:42
The DT770 and M50x are pretty similar headphones, really. The Beyers have a less claustrophobic soundstage but they both are somewhat V-shaped, with recessed mids and exaggerated bass. The only reason people make it out to be a huge difference is because they don't have much experience with other headphones  :rolleyes:
I guess you're saying I'm one of those who do not have much experience with cans. :-[ Well, I did say I'd tried the M50, and only the M50, so based on the sound I hear, I didn't quite like it. Also, my expectations were raised because many spoke of the M50/M50X like it was the second coming (I guess I'd half expected to be blown away by the M50 like I was with the HD800). I find myself going for more transparent sounding cans, yes, I do appreciate some bass, but it must be tight. So far, I do appreciate the DT990/600 for better but tight bass, mildly recessed mids with nice highs that doesn't seem too bright (for me anyway).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Fri, 05 December 2014, 01:46:11
I guess you're saying I'm one of those who do not have much experience with cans. :-[ Well, I did say I'd tried the M50, and only the M50, so based on the sound I hear, I didn't quite like it. Also, my expectations were raised because many spoke of the M50/M50X like it was the second coming (I guess I'd half expected to be blown away by the M50 like I was with the HD800). I find myself going for more transparent sounding cans, yes, I do appreciate some bass, but it must be tight. So far, I do appreciate the DT990/600 for better but tight bass, mildly recessed mids with nice highs that doesn't seem too bright (for me anyway).

I wasn't aiming at you specifically but it's something I see bandied around a lot :) First the M50s got overhyped and the same thing is happening to the DT770s now that the M50s have been overexposed. Both are good, <$200 headphones but that's exactly what they sound like - <$200 headphones. The difference in sound quality is often overstated.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Fri, 05 December 2014, 08:04:37
My DT880 600 Ohms should be delivered today... *squeeee*
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Fri, 05 December 2014, 11:21:33
I love my ad700s but I want something more comfortable for my somewhat average size head. The imaging is ok but I want something that is more detailed and precise.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 05 December 2014, 11:22:55
I love my ad700s but I want something more comfortable for my somewhat average size head. The imaging is ok but I want something that is more detailed and precise.

What does your budget look like? Also what do you have in terms of amp/dac?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Fri, 05 December 2014, 12:00:56
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: The Mad Professor on Fri, 05 December 2014, 12:45:18
Okay, I officially own a Schiit Stack (Magni/Modi) and DT880 600 Ohms. A happy camper, I am.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 05 December 2014, 13:08:33
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Hmm.. What is most important to you in terms of sound along with a large sound stage? Also your budget should be plenty, its at the point where you can afford any of the mid-fi stuff but just slightly lower than TOTL high-fi.

But my early recommendation would be to look at the K7XX, the K712, and HD598. All are within your budget, are very comfy, have large detailed sound stages, and have good clarity. I hear massdrop is working on a K8XX which you could also wait for.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 05 December 2014, 13:46:53
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Dude join the Ortho love circle- HiFiMan HE-400i, so good.  You can find some good deals online.  I bought a pair for my wife for X-Mas and demoed them... VERY happy with the performance, weight, and comfort.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 05 December 2014, 13:48:16
I love my ad700s but I want something more comfortable for my somewhat average size head. The imaging is ok but I want something that is more detailed and precise.

the only thing more comfortable than ad700s is not wearing anything.

ad700 so slight and comfy!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 05 December 2014, 14:06:28
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Dude join the Ortho love circle- HiFiMan HE-400i, so good.  You can find some good deals online.  I bought a pair for my wife for X-Mas and demoed them... VERY happy with the performance, weight, and comfort.

I need a pair of orthos.. Bad..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 05 December 2014, 14:49:50
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Dude join the Ortho love circle- HiFiMan HE-400i, so good.  You can find some good deals online.  I bought a pair for my wife for X-Mas and demoed them... VERY happy with the performance, weight, and comfort.

I need a pair of orthos.. Bad..

Protip: Do it. xD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 05 December 2014, 14:51:42
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Dude join the Ortho love circle- HiFiMan HE-400i, so good.  You can find some good deals online.  I bought a pair for my wife for X-Mas and demoed them... VERY happy with the performance, weight, and comfort.

I need a pair of orthos.. Bad..

Protip: Do it. xD

Want to not take your advice that wasn't directed at me.

But orthos...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Fri, 05 December 2014, 15:00:34
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Dude join the Ortho love circle- HiFiMan HE-400i, so good.  You can find some good deals online.  I bought a pair for my wife for X-Mas and demoed them... VERY happy with the performance, weight, and comfort.
would you consider them better at imaging then the ad700s?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 05 December 2014, 15:04:07
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Dude join the Ortho love circle- HiFiMan HE-400i, so good.  You can find some good deals online.  I bought a pair for my wife for X-Mas and demoed them... VERY happy with the performance, weight, and comfort.

I need a pair of orthos.. Bad..

Protip: Do it. xD

Want to not take your advice that wasn't directed at me.

But orthos...

Want to go halfsies on a pair?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 05 December 2014, 16:11:00
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Dude join the Ortho love circle- HiFiMan HE-400i, so good.  You can find some good deals online.  I bought a pair for my wife for X-Mas and demoed them... VERY happy with the performance, weight, and comfort.
would you consider them better at imaging then the ad700s?

imaging for the most part is a result of a good enclosure, a good amplifier (low crossover distortion), and a good audio source.  There are tests online for this sort of thing,


If you change headphones and this gets worse... the issue is the headphones, if it doesn't then it's your amp's crossover distortion.  If you're listening to something and you don't get quite the same feeling as the above link in terms of imaging quality it's your source/recording.

The 400i would give you fine stereo imaging.  Separation is great.  I'd also recommend the Alpha Dogs I have for sale right now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 05 December 2014, 16:58:39
modi optical + magni. I play fps games most of the time. $500

Dude join the Ortho love circle- HiFiMan HE-400i, so good.  You can find some good deals online.  I bought a pair for my wife for X-Mas and demoed them... VERY happy with the performance, weight, and comfort.
would you consider them better at imaging then the ad700s?

I have no experience with the ad700s but I do have a Hifiman HE500 and I have heard the Audeze LCD2. They tend to have a more closed-in soundstage and less defined center imaging than other headphones. That said, the separation and layering is nothing short of spectacular and I absolutely love the beautifully smooth, rich mid tones of the HE500.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 05 December 2014, 23:33:19
I just pulled the trigger on a Schiit Fulla, cost me a total of 105USD with Fedex Economy delivery to Asia. I don't know when I'd get it, but I'd definitely let you guys know when I get it. I'm gonna try it out three cans: DT990/600, LCD2.2 and HD800.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 05 December 2014, 23:36:01
Superclose to buying a fulla right now for my IEMs.  Super close to buying a bunch of ****, to be honest.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 05 December 2014, 23:44:23
Superclose to buying a fulla right now for my IEMs.  Super close to buying a bunch of ****, to be honest.

For on the go use, or for laptops or something? The fulla needs a lot of power and might need a powered usb port if you are wanting to use it with your phone. I really want to get one for my se535s. Although pretty solid alone, I think a nice little amp would help out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 06 December 2014, 01:04:27
Superclose to buying a fulla right now for my IEMs.  Super close to buying a bunch of ****, to be honest.
Protip advice: DO IT!!!  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 06 December 2014, 01:23:35
Superclose to buying a fulla right now for my IEMs.  Super close to buying a bunch of ****, to be honest.

do it

in other news I got NAD VISO HP50s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: AFKfapping on Sat, 06 December 2014, 02:40:55
Sennheiser hd558's with foam mod! best bang for the buck IMO
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Sat, 06 December 2014, 02:55:11
I just pulled the trigger on a Schiit Fulla, cost me a total of 105USD with Fedex Economy delivery to Asia. I don't know when I'd get it, but I'd definitely let you guys know when I get it. I'm gonna try it out three cans: DT990/600, LCD2.2 and HD800.

lol.  "Schiit Fulla".  And I thought "Schiit" was funny.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 06 December 2014, 03:06:28
lol.  "Schiit Fulla".  And I thought "Schiit" was funny.
Schiit does have a sense of humor with regards to naming their products....actually 'Fulla' is a Norse goddess I believe. Hey, at least I can honestly say I'm Fulla Schiit. ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 06 December 2014, 10:49:42
Hey guys, I need some opinions quick, I can get a pair of Mr Speakers Mad Dog 3.2 for 200USD, should I go for it? Is that a fair price for a used MD 3.2? It was bought in July this year, so it's got more than 7 months of warranty left.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 06 December 2014, 10:50:51
Hey guys, I need some opinions quick, I can get a pair of Mr Speakers Mad Dog 3.2 for 200USD, should I go for it? Is that a fair price for a used MD 3.2? It was bought in July this year, so it's got more than 7 months of warranty left.
That seems like a pretty legit price to me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Hucifer on Sat, 06 December 2014, 12:23:44
Hey guys, I need some opinions quick, I can get a pair of Mr Speakers Mad Dog 3.2 for 200USD, should I go for it? Is that a fair price for a used MD 3.2? It was bought in July this year, so it's got more than 7 months of warranty left.

Assuming they're in decent condition, yeah that's a fair price. IMO the Mad Dogs are pretty much the best <$300 closed headphones out there provided you don't want exaggerated bass.

They really do love a good amp though, so I hope you have that covered.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: munch on Sat, 06 December 2014, 21:08:48
I will third this, as long as they have the big leather pads. nice tonal balance and no harshness, bit smoother than the Alpha Doges.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 06 December 2014, 21:38:24
So I have feeling "santa" will be bringing me some HE400i's this christmas.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: geogga on Sat, 06 December 2014, 22:29:52
Got my Fidelio X2s a week ago...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 06 December 2014, 22:57:10
HP50s shipped wew
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:02:04
jvc HA-SZ2000 bought!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:05:11
jvc HA-SZ2000 bought!

finally
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:08:01
jvc HA-SZ2000 bought!

finally

now epc and tj can stop making fun of me ;_;
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:08:43
jvc HA-SZ2000 bought!

They seem pretty solid. Let us know how you get along with them once they arrive!  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:12:10
jvc HA-SZ2000 bought!

They seem pretty solid. Let us know how you get along with them once they arrive!  :)

they'll be with tj first, i hope he gives a review of them. i have nobody at home next week to receive them :( don't want them to get "lost"
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:21:53
jvc HA-SZ2000 bought!

finally

now epc and tj can stop making fun of me ;_;

Oh I'll make fun of you still peasant.  Bought mere bass canons instead of sacrificing a minor amount of bass for all the pretty and better sound
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:24:48
disappoint you more than my father ;_;
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:26:29
Question for you folks, my current home set-up is an Aune T1 to DT990 pros. I quite like the headphones, but I am not a huge fan of the Aune. I have been considering upgrading to a better amp, and selling the Aune off. Do you think an Asgard or something similar would have a noticeable difference to the Aune, or should I just suck it up and keep the Aune for now?

My on-the-go pair is a set of Shure SE535s, and they are amazing! Although it seems I like sibilant headphones, judging from my setup. But back to the SE535's, I would highly recommend them if anyone is looking for a nice pair of semi-affordable IEMs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:40:39
Question for you folks, my current home set-up is an Aune T1 to DT990 pros. I quite like the headphones, but I am not a huge fan of the Aune. I have been considering upgrading to a better amp, and selling the Aune off. Do you think an Asgard or something similar would have a noticeable difference to the Aune, or should I just suck it up and keep the Aune for now?

My on-the-go pair is a set of Shure SE535s, and they are amazing! Although it seems I like sibilant headphones, judging from my setup. But back to the SE535's, I would highly recommend them if anyone is looking for a nice pair of semi-affordable IEMs.

I just finished modding 2 pair of dt990 for customers and was not happy with how it sounded out of my aune.  I'd say invest in something OTL like a valhalla.  Maybe an asgard or crackpipeballspeedheadsex.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sat, 06 December 2014, 23:43:17
Question for you folks, my current home set-up is an Aune T1 to DT990 pros. I quite like the headphones, but I am not a huge fan of the Aune. I have been considering upgrading to a better amp, and selling the Aune off. Do you think an Asgard or something similar would have a noticeable difference to the Aune, or should I just suck it up and keep the Aune for now?

My on-the-go pair is a set of Shure SE535s, and they are amazing! Although it seems I like sibilant headphones, judging from my setup. But back to the SE535's, I would highly recommend them if anyone is looking for a nice pair of semi-affordable IEMs.

I just finished modding 2 pair of dt990 for customers and was not happy with how it sounded out of my aune.  I'd say invest in something OTL like a valhalla.  Maybe an asgard or crackpipeballspeedheadsex.

Thanks for the advice. That's what I was thinking, as the 990s have a v-shaped sound, and the Aune pushes this even higher. Also, its on my list to mod these to have a detachable cable, or to send it to you to do. Likely do it myself as I am a student and shipping is expensive. :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 07 December 2014, 00:06:47
Question for you folks, my current home set-up is an Aune T1 to DT990 pros. I quite like the headphones, but I am not a huge fan of the Aune. I have been considering upgrading to a better amp, and selling the Aune off. Do you think an Asgard or something similar would have a noticeable difference to the Aune, or should I just suck it up and keep the Aune for now?

My on-the-go pair is a set of Shure SE535s, and they are amazing! Although it seems I like sibilant headphones, judging from my setup. But back to the SE535's, I would highly recommend them if anyone is looking for a nice pair of semi-affordable IEMs.

I just finished modding 2 pair of dt990 for customers and was not happy with how it sounded out of my aune.  I'd say invest in something OTL like a valhalla.  Maybe an asgard or crackpipeballspeedheadsex.

Thanks for the advice. That's what I was thinking, as the 990s have a v-shaped sound, and the Aune pushes this even higher. Also, its on my list to mod these to have a detachable cable, or to send it to you to do. Likely do it myself as I am a student and shipping is expensive. :P

I'll happily answer questions when you get to that point.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sun, 07 December 2014, 00:13:35
Question for you folks, my current home set-up is an Aune T1 to DT990 pros. I quite like the headphones, but I am not a huge fan of the Aune. I have been considering upgrading to a better amp, and selling the Aune off. Do you think an Asgard or something similar would have a noticeable difference to the Aune, or should I just suck it up and keep the Aune for now?

My on-the-go pair is a set of Shure SE535s, and they are amazing! Although it seems I like sibilant headphones, judging from my setup. But back to the SE535's, I would highly recommend them if anyone is looking for a nice pair of semi-affordable IEMs.

I just finished modding 2 pair of dt990 for customers and was not happy with how it sounded out of my aune.  I'd say invest in something OTL like a valhalla.  Maybe an asgard or crackpipeballspeedheadsex.

Thanks for the advice. That's what I was thinking, as the 990s have a v-shaped sound, and the Aune pushes this even higher. Also, its on my list to mod these to have a detachable cable, or to send it to you to do. Likely do it myself as I am a student and shipping is expensive. :P

I'll happily answer questions when you get to that point.

Cool, thanks for the offer! I will take you up on that sometime!  :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 08 December 2014, 03:32:41
Sony MH1C. So good. O_o (Well, as long as I use them with my Sansa Clip Zip, not the Android phone, and don't move… dem microphonics.)

I mean, seriously. Bass could be tighter, but we're talking about a bundled headset here…
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 08 December 2014, 15:47:49
IEMs broke today :( what do
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 08 December 2014, 15:50:18
IEMs broke today :( what do

Upgrade  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 08 December 2014, 15:54:26
IEMs broke today :( what do

Upgrade  :p

I told him it's time to scrape up the cash for CIEMs, even if entry level.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sygaldry on Mon, 08 December 2014, 15:54:49
Just got a new set of Audio Technica M50x in the mail today and they are not too bad!

Nothing too spectacular but good enough for a bit of casual listening without having to deal with DACs and amps!

Satisfied I am (especially because they essentially cost me 40 dollars - they came bundled with a sound recorder I was going to buy anyway for my violinist girlfriend)!!!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 08 December 2014, 15:55:40
IEMs broke today :( what do

Upgrade  :p

I told him it's time to scrape up the cash for CIEMs, even if entry level.

Noble audio customs?!?!?!  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 08 December 2014, 15:58:17
IEMs broke today :( what do

Upgrade  :p

I told him it's time to scrape up the cash for CIEMs, even if entry level.

Noble audio customs?!?!?!  ;D

That's one of the two I'm recommending him.  Either 3c or UE 4pros.  Basically, the two companies I would choose if my jh13pros were destroyed or stolen because jh customer service gives me a frowny face.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:45:54
IEMs broke today :( what do

Upgrade  :p

I told him it's time to scrape up the cash for CIEMs, even if entry level.

Noble audio customs?!?!?!  ;D

That's one of the two I'm recommending him.  Either 3c or UE 4pros.  Basically, the two companies I would choose if my jh13pros were destroyed or stolen because jh customer service gives me a frowny face.

Basically, Swag, or save $50?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 08 December 2014, 17:49:27
IEMs broke today :( what do

Upgrade  :p

I told him it's time to scrape up the cash for CIEMs, even if entry level.

Noble audio customs?!?!?!  ;D

That's one of the two I'm recommending him.  Either 3c or UE 4pros.  Basically, the two companies I would choose if my jh13pros were destroyed or stolen because jh customer service gives me a frowny face.

Basically, Swag, or save $50?

What's $50 to you?  A night without pizza and wings?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Badwrench on Mon, 08 December 2014, 23:40:31
Looking for recommendations on a $40 -$80 set of over ear headphones that will sound good without an amp.  My father in law wants a set and wants good sound while still being comfortable while he walks in the morning (ie: no giant cans). 

I was thinking of the lower end Audio Technicas or the Koss DJ100s. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 09 December 2014, 00:28:29
Looking for recommendations on a $40 -$80 set of over ear headphones that will sound good without an amp.  My father in law wants a set and wants good sound while still being comfortable while he walks in the morning (ie: no giant cans). 

I was thinking of the lower end Audio Technicas or the Koss DJ100s.

Kind of hard to do an over ear that isn't "giant". Also if he is going out walking then I would recommend an on ear since he will be moving. Im actually tempted to recommend the Koss Porta Pros.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Badwrench on Tue, 09 December 2014, 00:57:21
Looking for recommendations on a $40 -$80 set of over ear headphones that will sound good without an amp.  My father in law wants a set and wants good sound while still being comfortable while he walks in the morning (ie: no giant cans). 

I was thinking of the lower end Audio Technicas or the Koss DJ100s.

Kind of hard to do an over ear that isn't "giant". Also if he is going out walking then I would recommend an on ear since he will be moving. Im actually tempted to recommend the Koss Porta Pros.

That was my first thought as well with the portas, great headphones regardless of price.  I will start looking at on ear as well then.  I don't think he would be into the 80's styling of the Porta Pros.  He is looking for something a little sleeker, but came to me after admitting that the only thing he knew was "Beats".  I said No!

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Wed, 10 December 2014, 14:51:02
Looking for recommendations on a $40 -$80 set of over ear headphones that will sound good without an amp.  My father in law wants a set and wants good sound while still being comfortable while he walks in the morning (ie: no giant cans). 

I was thinking of the lower end Audio Technicas or the Koss DJ100s.

Kind of hard to do an over ear that isn't "giant". Also if he is going out walking then I would recommend an on ear since he will be moving. Im actually tempted to recommend the Koss Porta Pros.

That was my first thought as well with the portas, great headphones regardless of price.  I will start looking at on ear as well then.  I don't think he would be into the 80's styling of the Porta Pros.  He is looking for something a little sleeker, but came to me after admitting that the only thing he knew was "Beats".  I said No!

You may want to check out the Velodyne vFree headphones, as they meet several of the stated criteria: on-ear, wireless (Bluetooth), and not too flashy (quite sleek, actually).  They're also in the suggested price range, Amazon has them for $70.

I like the sound, but prefer the over-the-ear or in-ear, since I wear glasses.  Good bass, without sounding tubby, and relatively light weight.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 11 December 2014, 22:00:34
I'm in the mood for something with better bass. Yes, my LCD2 does bass well enough, but too lush sounding but has a rather narrow soundstage that, well, compared to even the DT990/600 (to me anyway). I'm thinking HD700 or HE500, the former has great soundstage, better attack and decay with a more extended bass compared to the HD800. The HE500 would be a fun can for gaming and movies, but I'm concerned that it'd sound too much like the LCD2. Is the HD700 different enough from the HD800 to justify a purchase? I believe I can get a HD700 for about 500USD with one more year of warranty left.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 12 December 2014, 00:59:01
Any of you guys have thoughts on the LH labs geek pulse?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 12 December 2014, 02:13:01
Any of you guys have thoughts on the LH labs geek pulse?

Intrigued but if it's like the geek out, it's not for my ears' long term health.  Was sharp enough on the top end to give me like a short term tinnitus-like ringing in my right ear.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 12 December 2014, 13:09:17
Any of you guys have thoughts on the LH labs geek pulse?

Intrigued but if it's like the geek out, it's not for my ears' long term health.  Was sharp enough on the top end to give me like a short term tinnitus-like ringing in my right ear.

Basically from what I can find, the Geek Pulse is just a larger (desktop) version of the Geek Out. Well at least the base model is. Seriously those guys seem like they are going way over the top with all their "upgrades" and stuff.

I am interested in it though because my DACmini has been away from me for over a month now because CEntrance can't figure out what is causing an audible hiss...

They offered me a refund or I could just wait until their CEO Michael gets back from China to take a look at it for himself..

Currently with LH's offer on IndieGoGo I could get the Geek Pulse for just about the same price ($399) but I am not sure when it would ship...

Not exactly sure what I should do... They both are very similar in specs, both do what I need it to do (amp/dac desktop combo with pass through), and are both in the same form factor/price range that I am comfortable with.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 12 December 2014, 14:54:59
Any of you guys have thoughts on the LH labs geek pulse?

Intrigued but if it's like the geek out, it's not for my ears' long term health.  Was sharp enough on the top end to give me like a short term tinnitus-like ringing in my right ear.

Basically from what I can find, the Geek Pulse is just a larger (desktop) version of the Geek Out. Well at least the base model is. Seriously those guys seem like they are going way over the top with all their "upgrades" and stuff.

I am interested in it though because my DACmini has been away from me for over a month now because CEntrance can't figure out what is causing an audible hiss...

They offered me a refund or I could just wait until their CEO Michael gets back from China to take a look at it for himself..

Currently with LH's offer on IndieGoGo I could get the Geek Pulse for just about the same price ($399) but I am not sure when it would ship...

Not exactly sure what I should do... They both are very similar in specs, both do what I need it to do (amp/dac desktop combo with pass through), and are both in the same form factor/price range that I am comfortable with.

I think they changed that in the last couple days to either 5 $99 payments or $999 and get a free pair of lcd-2.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sun, 14 December 2014, 11:15:57
Any of you guys have thoughts on the LH labs geek pulse?

Intrigued but if it's like the geek out, it's not for my ears' long term health.  Was sharp enough on the top end to give me like a short term tinnitus-like ringing in my right ear.

Basically from what I can find, the Geek Pulse is just a larger (desktop) version of the Geek Out. Well at least the base model is. Seriously those guys seem like they are going way over the top with all their "upgrades" and stuff.

I am interested in it though because my DACmini has been away from me for over a month now because CEntrance can't figure out what is causing an audible hiss...

They offered me a refund or I could just wait until their CEO Michael gets back from China to take a look at it for himself..

Currently with LH's offer on IndieGoGo I could get the Geek Pulse for just about the same price ($399) but I am not sure when it would ship...

Not exactly sure what I should do... They both are very similar in specs, both do what I need it to do (amp/dac desktop combo with pass through), and are both in the same form factor/price range that I am comfortable with.

I think they changed that in the last couple days to either 5 $99 payments or $999 and get a free pair of lcd-2.
Some one on headfi alerted me that they put up another indiegogo option to pay 4 payments of 99 a month. I jumped on it.. Should be done paying in March and have the unit ship around March as well.

Does anyone on here have experience with using linear power supplies? Why the hell anyone would pay $800 for a small upgrade in sonic quality for their amp/dac is beyond me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 14 December 2014, 13:36:46
Any of you guys have thoughts on the LH labs geek pulse?

Intrigued but if it's like the geek out, it's not for my ears' long term health.  Was sharp enough on the top end to give me like a short term tinnitus-like ringing in my right ear.

Basically from what I can find, the Geek Pulse is just a larger (desktop) version of the Geek Out. Well at least the base model is. Seriously those guys seem like they are going way over the top with all their "upgrades" and stuff.

I am interested in it though because my DACmini has been away from me for over a month now because CEntrance can't figure out what is causing an audible hiss...

They offered me a refund or I could just wait until their CEO Michael gets back from China to take a look at it for himself..

Currently with LH's offer on IndieGoGo I could get the Geek Pulse for just about the same price ($399) but I am not sure when it would ship...

Not exactly sure what I should do... They both are very similar in specs, both do what I need it to do (amp/dac desktop combo with pass through), and are both in the same form factor/price range that I am comfortable with.

I think they changed that in the last couple days to either 5 $99 payments or $999 and get a free pair of lcd-2.
Some one on headfi alerted me that they put up another indiegogo option to pay 4 payments of 99 a month. I jumped on it.. Should be done paying in March and have the unit ship around March as well.

Does anyone on here have experience with using linear power supplies? Why the hell anyone would pay $800 for a small upgrade in sonic quality for their amp/dac is beyond me.

Yeah man, it's power conditioning.  Usually if your home electricity is less than optimal you might want to look into one of these.  Bad power?  Needs conditioning.  No bad power?  Doesn't sound off?  You're A-OK.  Power conditioning is expensive to design and a niche item, hence the price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sun, 14 December 2014, 14:24:54
Any of you guys have thoughts on the LH labs geek pulse?

Intrigued but if it's like the geek out, it's not for my ears' long term health.  Was sharp enough on the top end to give me like a short term tinnitus-like ringing in my right ear.

Basically from what I can find, the Geek Pulse is just a larger (desktop) version of the Geek Out. Well at least the base model is. Seriously those guys seem like they are going way over the top with all their "upgrades" and stuff.

I am interested in it though because my DACmini has been away from me for over a month now because CEntrance can't figure out what is causing an audible hiss...

They offered me a refund or I could just wait until their CEO Michael gets back from China to take a look at it for himself..

Currently with LH's offer on IndieGoGo I could get the Geek Pulse for just about the same price ($399) but I am not sure when it would ship...

Not exactly sure what I should do... They both are very similar in specs, both do what I need it to do (amp/dac desktop combo with pass through), and are both in the same form factor/price range that I am comfortable with.

I think they changed that in the last couple days to either 5 $99 payments or $999 and get a free pair of lcd-2.
Some one on headfi alerted me that they put up another indiegogo option to pay 4 payments of 99 a month. I jumped on it.. Should be done paying in March and have the unit ship around March as well.

Does anyone on here have experience with using linear power supplies? Why the hell anyone would pay $800 for a small upgrade in sonic quality for their amp/dac is beyond me.

Yeah man, it's power conditioning.  Usually if your home electricity is less than optimal you might want to look into one of these.  Bad power?  Needs conditioning.  No bad power?  Doesn't sound off?  You're A-OK.  Power conditioning is expensive to design and a niche item, hence the price.

Yeah.. I mean I at least use a good power strip with a nice ground. I should probably upgrade mine though since I need more outlets... But yeah the price on some Linear Power Supplies are insane.. the only "normal" priced one was the battery units for the ALO audio Panam.

But anyways hopefully the Geek Pulse will be cool.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 14 December 2014, 14:48:14
Buy a home theater one, save a bundle, hide it where you don't see it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sun, 14 December 2014, 20:59:20
I had issues in my old house with very old wiring and very disruptive N-G noise. I purchased a Furman PST-8D power conditioner and it completely removed all of the noise I getting out of my amplifier. I can't say it improved the actual sound quality, but it did perform its intended function and clean up the noise. It worked so good I purchased a second one for my computer as power conditioners offer a much higher level of protection than traditional surge protectors.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Mon, 15 December 2014, 01:31:30
Any DT990 600Ohm users here?

I've been listening to a T90 for a while now, and am now debating canceling my order for the DT990 from massdrop. I have a pair of DT880s also. I feel that the T90 isn't too much a change in sound signature compared to the DT880. Wider sound stage, more bass, actually ALOT better bass. Highs are a bit more pronounced but do not have the sibilance of the DT880.

Wonder how the DT990 is compared to the T90. If it's the same, or has alot more bass + highs, then I'll pass on it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Freebird on Mon, 15 December 2014, 07:37:16
Surely the T90's are better than the DT990's? I probably would say to not spend money on a "similar" set of cans, but that is just me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 15 December 2014, 10:08:00
I own the T90 and I just recently listened to the 990s in store. The T90 are much better, Greater clarity, bass, spacing, and just so much more crisp. The tesla technology is really awesome. However if you like the T90 sound signature, the 990 is a cheaper alternative. T90s only issue is that they can be treble happy for some. Oh and they are extremely comfy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Mon, 15 December 2014, 11:38:19
I own the T90 and I just recently listened to the 990s in store. The T90 are much better, Greater clarity, bass, spacing, and just so much more crisp. The tesla technology is really awesome. However if you like the T90 sound signature, the 990 is a cheaper alternative. T90s only issue is that they can be treble happy for some. Oh and they are extremely comfy.

I feel like the treble is actually better than the DT880. I'm a neutral type guy, but prefer tight bass and happy but detailed trebles whenever.

So it looks like the decision is to cancel the DT990, and spend that money towards a better DAC/AMP. Or more keyboard stuff... I think I have too many.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LinkPro on Mon, 15 December 2014, 22:02:18
I'm new on GH so I thought I needed to prove my relevance to this thread...  :D
[attachimg=1]
Really good all-around headphones. Thanks to these I was finally able to get out of the audio arms race...and into the keyboard arms race.

//Speaking of Beyer, the Tesla series gets lots of praise. I personally owned the flagship T1 for half a year and it was the best headphones I have ever listened to. Most comfortable too, no pressure on the top of my head whatsoever unlike all other headphones I have owned. However I don't think 990 would be so similar to T90, 990 supposedly has elevated bass and treble while T90 is more neutral. Maybe the 880 would be more similar to the T90.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Mon, 15 December 2014, 22:33:08
I'm new on GH so I thought I needed to prove my relevance to this thread...  :D
(Attachment Link)
Really good all-around headphones. Thanks to these I was finally able to get out of the audio arms race...and into the keyboard arms race.

//Speaking of Beyer, the Tesla series gets lots of praise. I personally owned the flagship T1 for half a year and it was the best headphones I have ever listened to. Most comfortable too, no pressure on the top of my head whatsoever unlike all other headphones I have owned. However I don't think 990 would be so similar to T90, 990 supposedly has elevated bass and treble while T90 is more neutral. Maybe the 880 would be more similar to the T90.

Really? From what I've read the T90 is more vshaped than the DT880. The sound signature does seem like so, but very mildly. I'm still undecided. All I know is though, the T90 makes the DT880 sound cheap.

And a surprising fact, the iPhone 6+ drives the T90 quite well, while my old HTC ONE M8 drove it pretty terribly. The apple earpods weren't bad at all, but the volume is quite low, that or my hearing is getting really awful...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LinkPro on Mon, 15 December 2014, 23:15:35

Really? From what I've read the T90 is more vshaped than the DT880. The sound signature does seem like so, but very mildly. I'm still undecided. All I know is though, the T90 makes the DT880 sound cheap.

And a surprising fact, the iPhone 6+ drives the T90 quite well, while my old HTC ONE M8 drove it pretty terribly. The apple earpods weren't bad at all, but the volume is quite low, that or my hearing is getting really awful...

It shouldn't be v-shaped if it is anything similar to the flagship T1. I had to go check head-fi again and the reviews suggest that the T90 is more on the neutral side too. Bass is there but in no way DT990-like.

The Tesla series are supposed to be not too amp picky. I plugged my T1 in my iPod touch back then for burn in and I could at least tell that detail retrieval and soundstage on this thing were no joke.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 16 December 2014, 04:57:10
Latest and last of my headphone purchases, gonna stop buying cans and perhaps focus on dac/amp combos and high res portable players. first up, V-Moda Crossfade M100 (matt black)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/07_zps70a46557.jpg)
Next up, a Sennheiser HD700
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/05_zpsa327ac47.jpg)
Last but certainly not least, a MrSpeakers Alpha Dog
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/03_zps8c98d6e0.jpg)

Oh yeah, group shot!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/08_zps5a52a680.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 25 December 2014, 00:33:50
Finally opened my HE400i. I don't have an amp right now but running these out of my phone they are pretty good... I can't wait to properly drive them. They definitely don't have that head pounding bass of the regular 400s. I think that it also has something to do with the clamp force.  Since more rumble can be more easily felt if the headphones are pressed more tightly on the head. But they sure are comfy. My family said they look a bit goofy but oh well lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 25 December 2014, 14:22:28
he400s have head pounding bass???

man, i must have been hearing them wrong.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 25 December 2014, 19:08:06
he400s have head pounding bass???

man, i must have been hearing them wrong.

1. You don't know what bass is
2. I didn't think it was pounding either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Joey Quinn on Thu, 25 December 2014, 23:51:16
I don't know how all you guys feel about ATH-M50s but for christmas I got some velour pads for them so I can ditch the crappy pleather ones they come with.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 25 December 2014, 23:56:07
I don't know how all you guys feel about ATH-M50s but for christmas I got some velour pads for them so I can ditch the crappy pleather ones they come with.
Did they change the sound at all? I'm sure they are way more comfortable!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Joey Quinn on Fri, 26 December 2014, 00:17:36
I don't know how all you guys feel about ATH-M50s but for christmas I got some velour pads for them so I can ditch the crappy pleather ones they come with.
Did they change the sound at all? I'm sure they are way more comfortable!

They are SO much more comfortable. It caused a small drop in bass but I mostly listen to rock and 80s pop so it isn't an issue, for games and some music I'll just eq up the bass a bit. My plan now is to use them a ton this week to get a better grasp on the sound and comfort changed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: azhdar on Fri, 26 December 2014, 01:22:29
Finally entered the Heaphone game with beyerdynamics dt770 pro 80ohms I got for christmas .
Seriously considering an amp now , what have you done to me GH  :-X
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Johan on Fri, 26 December 2014, 15:01:04
Any recommendations for a pair of closed pair of headphones for use on the go? I'm willing to spend 100 to 150 depending on the difference between price brackets.
I have a pair of IEM's,but I find that my ears get irritated by them If I use them for more than an hour or two.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 26 December 2014, 15:18:39
Any recommendations for a pair of closed pair of headphones for use on the go? I'm willing to spend 100 to 150 depending on the difference between price brackets.
I have a pair of IEM's,but I find that my ears get irritated by them If I use them for more than an hour or two.
Beyerdynamic custom one pros.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: compgeke on Mon, 29 December 2014, 22:59:53
I didn't get new headphones but I did get two amps today in the mail.

Two Little Bear P1 amps along with it 11 tubes (Amperex 6DJ8, GE 12AU7, unbranded 12AT7, Telefunken 6DJ8 x4, Telefunken 12AU7 x4) as well as one stock power brick and a General Signal Sola SLS-24-024 in an ATX PSU case.

One has some modifications (not sure what) but it DOES work but sounds a bit distorted running with a 12AU7. If I flip the switch and throw a 6DJ8 into it instead it sounds a fair bit better. They get pretty damn loud for being a headphone amp and sound pretty awesome, I'll be using one as a portable and the modified one as a spare.

(http://goput.it/str/thumb/l_zsc_jpg.jpg) (http://goput.it/zsc.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: drewba on Wed, 31 December 2014, 10:14:04
I purchased a JVC HARX700 (http://www.amazon.com/JVC-HARX700-Precision-Sound-Headphones/dp/B0013OWPV4) based on reviews that touted this an extraordinary bang-for-my-buck. I guess I should have asked you guys first but regardless it's being delivered to me sometime today.

I've been reading about "comfort modding" using foam - has anyone specifically modded the HARX700s and can drop some knowledge on me? I don't think it will be too difficult but thought I'd ask because it's New Years Eve and I'm working :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 31 December 2014, 10:24:10
Finally upgraded from my koss porta pro's to some sennheiser HD558's, so far I'm really liking them, having once owned the HD600 don't know why it took me so long to get back to sennheiser.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Johan on Wed, 31 December 2014, 20:59:16
Any recommendations for a pair of closed pair of headphones for use on the go? I'm willing to spend 100 to 150 depending on the difference between price brackets.
I have a pair of IEM's,but I find that my ears get irritated by them If I use them for more than an hour or two.
Beyerdynamic custom one pros.

I went out and got them yesterday, 1.5 days of light use and the cable input is broked. Right and left speaker turns off depending on which direction I turn my head. Nope just a cable short, still going to have it replaced. I have the best luck :/
They sound pretty good for not being broken-in though, and they feel very sturdy.
Going back to the shop tomorrow.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ImCyborg on Wed, 31 December 2014, 21:21:26
I use the Astro A40s with the astro mixamp. I love them so much, they great!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 03 January 2015, 01:23:50
(http://i.imgur.com/hRRCfyR.jpg)

Got these thanks to tjcaustin. Amazing soundstage for a pair of closed cans and really fine treble.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 03 January 2015, 01:46:10
One of my favorite headphones ruined because my head is 3big.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 03 January 2015, 13:48:08
Haven't worn my HD650s in a little while, I forgot how tight they clamp...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 16 January 2015, 07:12:33
Got a Schiit Lyr, will be getting an SMSL M8 DAC in the near future, and maybe an AKG702 Anni......
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/SchiitLyr_zps940272f4.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 16 January 2015, 09:41:40
Got a Schiit Lyr, will be getting an SMSL M8 DAC in the near future, and maybe an AKG702 Anni......
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/SchiitLyr_zps940272f4.jpg)

What model of ifi is that?

Also last night I went to the opening celebration of a local audio store, I got to try the Mr speakers alpha prime, the abyss headphones, and a bunch of woo audio amps. I think I'm set on selling all my stuff and upgrading to a wa7 fireflies.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 16 January 2015, 11:49:45
Got a Schiit Lyr, will be getting an SMSL M8 DAC in the near future, and maybe an AKG702 Anni......
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/SchiitLyr_zps940272f4.jpg)


Great choice with the Lyr! Slap some NOS Amperex Orange Globe ECC88 in there and it'll be silky smooth.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blackbox on Fri, 16 January 2015, 16:58:14
Got a Schiit Lyr, will be getting an SMSL M8 DAC in the near future, and maybe an AKG702 Anni......
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/SchiitLyr_zps940272f4.jpg)


Nice! I have used my asgard 2 for quite a while now and i love schiit products.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 16 January 2015, 20:45:47
Hmmm, someone in a local tech forum wants to sell an iFi iDSD Nano at a pretty good price, thinking of grabbing it instead of the SMSL M8. What do you guys think?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Wed, 21 January 2015, 14:29:08
question.

I am upgrading my desktop setup and will be buying some stuff

Is there a dac/amp combo that would power my speakers and headphones so that I don't have to buy 2 separate ones.

I really like the Monoprice Desktop Headphone Amplifier that's on massdrop right now.

More specifically this is what I am going to be playing with

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=pd_sim_e_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1KSW8T0DVHC495PKDYE6
Headphones: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421872084&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr+7506

Any recommendations on the setup would be appreciated.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 21 January 2015, 14:50:12
question.

I am upgrading my desktop setup and will be buying some stuff

Is there a dac/amp combo that would power my speakers and headphones so that I don't have to buy 2 separate ones.

I really like the Monoprice Desktop Headphone Amplifier that's on massdrop right now.

More specifically this is what I am going to be playing with

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=pd_sim_e_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1KSW8T0DVHC495PKDYE6
Headphones: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421872084&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr+7506

Any recommendations on the setup would be appreciated.

What is your budget? Are those bookshelf speakers powered?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Wed, 21 January 2015, 15:16:01
question.

I am upgrading my desktop setup and will be buying some stuff

Is there a dac/amp combo that would power my speakers and headphones so that I don't have to buy 2 separate ones.

I really like the Monoprice Desktop Headphone Amplifier that's on massdrop right now.

More specifically this is what I am going to be playing with

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=pd_sim_e_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1KSW8T0DVHC495PKDYE6
Headphones: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421872084&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr+7506

Any recommendations on the setup would be appreciated.

What is your budget? Are those bookshelf speakers powered?

They are not powered and budget for Dac would be about $100.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 21 January 2015, 15:47:22
question.

I am upgrading my desktop setup and will be buying some stuff

Is there a dac/amp combo that would power my speakers and headphones so that I don't have to buy 2 separate ones.

I really like the Monoprice Desktop Headphone Amplifier that's on massdrop right now.

More specifically this is what I am going to be playing with

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=pd_sim_e_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1KSW8T0DVHC495PKDYE6
Headphones: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421872084&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr+7506

Any recommendations on the setup would be appreciated.

What is your budget? Are those bookshelf speakers powered?

They are not powered and budget for Dac would be about $100.
Well the monoprice unit you showed is only an amp not a dac. Although I had the fiio e09 which is similar and it had tons of power.

Check out ifi and yulong's cheaper offerings for amp dac combos. For 100 it might be hard to find an amp and dac combo with pass through. You might need to up your budget a little.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Wed, 21 January 2015, 17:02:55
question.

I am upgrading my desktop setup and will be buying some stuff

Is there a dac/amp combo that would power my speakers and headphones so that I don't have to buy 2 separate ones.

I really like the Monoprice Desktop Headphone Amplifier that's on massdrop right now.

More specifically this is what I am going to be playing with

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=pd_sim_e_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1KSW8T0DVHC495PKDYE6
Headphones: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421872084&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr+7506

Any recommendations on the setup would be appreciated.

What is your budget? Are those bookshelf speakers powered?

They are not powered and budget for Dac would be about $100.
Well the monoprice unit you showed is only an amp not a dac. Although I had the fiio e09 which is similar and it had tons of power.

Check out ifi and yulong's cheaper offerings for amp dac combos. For 100 it might be hard to find an amp and dac combo with pass through. You might need to up your budget a little.

It sais it is a dac o.o

Monoprice Desktop Amp / DAC
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Wed, 21 January 2015, 17:28:56
question.

I am upgrading my desktop setup and will be buying some stuff

Is there a dac/amp combo that would power my speakers and headphones so that I don't have to buy 2 separate ones.

I really like the Monoprice Desktop Headphone Amplifier that's on massdrop right now.

More specifically this is what I am going to be playing with

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=pd_sim_e_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1KSW8T0DVHC495PKDYE6
Headphones: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421872084&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr+7506

Any recommendations on the setup would be appreciated.

What is your budget? Are those bookshelf speakers powered?

They are not powered and budget for Dac would be about $100.
Well the monoprice unit you showed is only an amp not a dac. Although I had the fiio e09 which is similar and it had tons of power.

Check out ifi and yulong's cheaper offerings for amp dac combos. For 100 it might be hard to find an amp and dac combo with pass through. You might need to up your budget a little.

It sais it is a dac o.o

Monoprice Desktop Amp / DAC
Reading through the comments, it sounds like that Monoprice Amp/DAC is a little underwhelming:

Quote
jkteddy77 5
Forewarning, I got this for my DT 990 250ohm version from Amazon, and was very disappointed with it
It is apparently a reboxed Fiio E09k/E11k, but even on max gain and max volume, it didn't impress me. at about 75% it's max volume, it matches my Asus Z97 Pro's op-amp, and my Logitech Z506's built-in amp is actually louder than this amp/dac can go...
The DAC is mediocre, and I couldn't tell the difference between this and the front headphone jack of my PC...
this was only with a 250ohm headset! I'drecommend a better or at least more reputable amp or dac.
Monoprice let me down this time :/
I'm no audiophile and am pretty much a n00b to the hobby, but my understanding is that you'll hear a bigger improvement from from a good amp than from a DAC, so with a $100 budget, I would spend my money on an amp first and find a nice DAC later. I'm quite pleased with the Schitt Magni2Ü (http://schiit.com/products/magni-2) as my headphone amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 21 January 2015, 17:59:30
question.

I am upgrading my desktop setup and will be buying some stuff

Is there a dac/amp combo that would power my speakers and headphones so that I don't have to buy 2 separate ones.

I really like the Monoprice Desktop Headphone Amplifier that's on massdrop right now.

More specifically this is what I am going to be playing with

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=pd_sim_e_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1KSW8T0DVHC495PKDYE6
Headphones: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421872084&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+mdr+7506

Any recommendations on the setup would be appreciated.

What is your budget? Are those bookshelf speakers powered?

They are not powered and budget for Dac would be about $100.
Well the monoprice unit you showed is only an amp not a dac. Although I had the fiio e09 which is similar and it had tons of power.

Check out ifi and yulong's cheaper offerings for amp dac combos. For 100 it might be hard to find an amp and dac combo with pass through. You might need to up your budget a little.

It sais it is a dac o.o

Monoprice Desktop Amp / DAC

Ahhh. I just googled the item. The DAC chip in there is nothing special to brag about.. I think what Wagyu said is probably best. Get an amp and add a separate external dac later.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 21 January 2015, 18:17:16
If you go either way, you'll have to get different bookshelf speakers as a magni 2u or the monoprice piece (and most small headphone first amps) are pre-out only.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Wed, 21 January 2015, 18:32:51
okay. What would be the best budget friendly setup. lets say a budget of about $300 for speakers and amp
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 26 January 2015, 00:56:32
Whoa, this thread has been quiet for a while,so a BUM is necessary. BTW, next week would be a big headphone blowout buys for me, I'd not be getting one, or two headphones....but three higher end cans (one ortho, two dynamic) with one being a flagship model. As usual, I'll be back with pics......
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 26 January 2015, 09:52:18
Whoa, this thread has been quiet for a while,so a BUM is necessary. BTW, next week would be a big headphone blowout buys for me, I'd not be getting one, or two headphones....but three higher end cans (one ortho, two dynamic) with one being a flagship model. As usual, I'll be back with pics......
What the occasion? I actually just got some new gear as well. I just returned my Dacmini for a full refund and went to my local audio store to pick up a woo audio wa7 fireflies. I haven't taken pictures yet but it is beautiful and sounds so good..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 26 January 2015, 11:41:25
What the occasion? I actually just got some new gear as well. I just returned my Dacmini for a full refund and went to my local audio store to pick up a woo audio wa7 fireflies. I haven't taken pictures yet but it is beautiful and sounds so good..
Oh, nothing special, just found some great cans at very nice price.....one being the HifiMan HE400i which I had gotten, returned and repurchasing as the seller is offering it at a nice price. Also, I had thought that it had scratches on one of the cups, but they turned out to be dried glue or something. I won't reveal what the remaining two  will be, just gonna let you guys see them when I post pics next week. Oh yeah, I will be getting a Valid as well....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: csnickba on Tue, 27 January 2015, 09:25:33
DT 770 Pros 250ohms edition w/ the Schiit audio modi stack. Also those speakers in the background are the Harman and Kardon Soundsticks 3
(http://i.imgur.com/JRZ4sjP.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 27 January 2015, 11:23:07
DT 770 Pros 250ohms edition w/ the Schiit audio modi stack. Also those speakers in the background are the Harman and Kardon Soundsticks 3
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JRZ4sjP.jpg)


Nice starting set up! I had the DT770's and I kind of wish I kept them. I need another closed pair of headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 27 January 2015, 11:35:48
DT 770 Pros 250ohms edition w/ the Schiit audio modi stack. Also those speakers in the background are the Harman and Kardon Soundsticks 3
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JRZ4sjP.jpg)


Nice starting set up! I had the DT770's and I kind of wish I kept them. I need another closed pair of headphones.

im selling a pair of 770 80ohm!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 27 January 2015, 12:11:59
DT 770 Pros 250ohms edition w/ the Schiit audio modi stack. Also those speakers in the background are the Harman and Kardon Soundsticks 3
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JRZ4sjP.jpg)


Nice starting set up! I had the DT770's and I kind of wish I kept them. I need another closed pair of headphones.

im selling a pair of 770 80ohm!
I'm thinking like Mr speakers stuff haha. I got to try the alpha primes and oh my were they buttery smooth.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: csnickba on Tue, 27 January 2015, 14:22:31
DT 770 Pros 250ohms edition w/ the Schiit audio modi stack. Also those speakers in the background are the Harman and Kardon Soundsticks 3
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JRZ4sjP.jpg)


Nice starting set up! I had the DT770's and I kind of wish I kept them. I need another closed pair of headphones.

Yeah, it's a nice inexpensive set that gets the job done. Kind of wish I got the 80ohms version of the headphones to take on the go though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: csnickba on Tue, 27 January 2015, 14:27:01
DT 770 Pros 250ohms edition w/ the Schiit audio modi stack. Also those speakers in the background are the Harman and Kardon Soundsticks 3
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JRZ4sjP.jpg)


Nice starting set up! I had the DT770's and I kind of wish I kept them. I need another closed pair of headphones.

im selling a pair of 770 80ohm!
I'm thinking like Mr speakers stuff haha. I got to try the alpha primes and oh my were they buttery smooth.
I have a buddy who owns the Alpha Primes and he loves them. I'd say go for them as long as you commit to taking care of them. $1,000 is a lot to drop on headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 27 January 2015, 14:45:55
DT 770 Pros 250ohms edition w/ the Schiit audio modi stack. Also those speakers in the background are the Harman and Kardon Soundsticks 3
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JRZ4sjP.jpg)


Nice starting set up! I had the DT770's and I kind of wish I kept them. I need another closed pair of headphones.

im selling a pair of 770 80ohm!
I'm thinking like Mr speakers stuff haha. I got to try the alpha primes and oh my were they buttery smooth.
I have a buddy who owns the Alpha Primes and he loves them. I'd say go for them as long as you commit to taking care of them. $1,000 is a lot to drop on headphones.

Yeah maybe in the future. But I just dropped $1k on my WA7 so no big purchases for a while.. But I am not complaining by any means, I got plenty of nice headphones to pair with it  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 27 January 2015, 15:18:11
should probably post these here..
(http://i.imgur.com/JjdICIP.jpg)

received them last week.

dat bass
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 27 January 2015, 15:39:15
should probably post these here..
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/JjdICIP.jpg)


received them last week.

dat bass

Im guessing those are why you are selling the 770s. What are you running them out of?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 27 January 2015, 15:43:33
schiit m/m

and kinda. might even sell these to fund th600.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Tue, 27 January 2015, 20:06:05
Sorry, what are they? I am not too good with remembering what each headphone looks like.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Tue, 27 January 2015, 20:50:13
JVC HA-SZ2000
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 28 January 2015, 00:32:12
JVC HA-SZ2000


What kind of music do you use them for? The reviews look pretty good for them!  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Wed, 28 January 2015, 11:59:22
JVC HA-SZ2000


What kind of music do you use them for? The reviews look pretty good for them!  :)

rap mostly
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 28 January 2015, 13:58:48
Current stack:

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7298/16388548901_4b5b7f5dd0_h.jpg)
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/15767835174_6648d76314_h.jpg)
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/15770277103_565a0b7f58_h.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: csnickba on Wed, 28 January 2015, 14:20:06
Current stack:

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7298/16388548901_4b5b7f5dd0_h.jpg)

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/15767835174_6648d76314_h.jpg)

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/15770277103_565a0b7f58_h.jpg)

Those are some seriously sexy headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Wed, 28 January 2015, 14:25:10
Current stack:

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7298/16388548901_4b5b7f5dd0_h.jpg)

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/15767835174_6648d76314_h.jpg)

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/15770277103_565a0b7f58_h.jpg)

Those are some seriously sexy headphones.
They really are. You should see them being made, pretty neat stuff. (youtube embed seems to be broken)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 28 January 2015, 15:07:48
That video sold me on the th900 over the 600
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 28 January 2015, 16:56:54
Current stack:

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7298/16388548901_4b5b7f5dd0_h.jpg)

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/15767835174_6648d76314_h.jpg)

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/15770277103_565a0b7f58_h.jpg)


Good Schiit! I haven't had an opportunity to hear the TH900 yet.

Here's my stack:

(http://i840.photobucket.com/albums/zz328/stalker81598/geekhack/DSC_9701-Edit_zpsvyiatjq7.jpg~original)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 28 January 2015, 17:02:29
God damn I need a camera...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Wed, 28 January 2015, 17:52:10
HEY I HAVE A STACK OF SCHIIT ALSO

(http://i.imgur.com/HOKFKg1.jpg)

my set up is very pleb tho :(

audio 3expensive5me
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 28 January 2015, 18:00:38

audio 3expensive5me


3Chainz3True

Too much schiit. I should post a picture of my new WA7.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:29:42
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: compgeke on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:32:53
Well, the true meaning of high end headphones.

(http://goput.it/str/thumb/l_d8r_jpg.jpg) (http://goput.it/d8r.jpg)

I could get rid of the mbox except the headphone jack on my laptop is broke.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slickmamba on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:33:54
Just ordered the k7xx over the dt880 600ohm.  Not sure if I am happy with that choice, especially since I have the hd598s, but I will live with it :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:34:22
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
I spent a good long while drooling over that WA7 Fireflies when you mentioned it a few days ago :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:37:09
Guise help my pictures keep getting rotated.  >:D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 30 January 2015, 15:05:28
I sent out all my headphones to RMA so... back to using Astros... :\ won't get my HP50s back for a week or so. Plan to sell the other 2 once they're replaced.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MGH on Fri, 30 January 2015, 15:07:28
(Attachment Link)
What keyboard is that?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 30 January 2015, 15:11:50
(Attachment Link)
What keyboard is that?

Its a B.mini from Korea made by another GH'er. Absolutely love it. Full RGB backlit with acrylic case and 50g mx blacks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 01 February 2015, 05:21:17
Two 'new' cans to add to my expanding collection (my obsession with collecting stuff I like is getting out of hand, just like keyboards....of which I have 30), first up, an Audio Technica ATH-AD2000
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/pic2_zps9laquhft.jpg)
Next up, the very good looking, and solidly built AKG K812
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/pic3_zpswrhi5rpq.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sun, 01 February 2015, 12:14:42
Wow those k812s look amazing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Tue, 03 February 2015, 04:21:39
I really want a stack of Schiit. How do you guys rate them?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 03 February 2015, 04:54:23
My HiFiMan HE400i came in yesterday, don't know why I'd not jumped on it previously, I find myself liking it a lot, from the sound to just how great it looks.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/06_zpsvfuuybgi.jpg)

A group shot of my cans, I'd forgotten to include the DT990/600 which was hooked up to my Marantz receiver......
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/10_zpszmdrfixv.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 03 February 2015, 09:48:11
I really want a stack of Schiit. How do you guys rate them?
If you are just starting out in audio or have a strict budget the magni modi 2 combo is awesome for the $200 ish dollars you pay.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Tue, 03 February 2015, 09:52:07
If you are just starting out in audio or have a strict budget the magni modi 2 combo is awesome for the $200 ish dollars you pay.

TJ helped me find some deals for my Magni and Vali so if you're ok with used gear, you can get the amps for under $200. I'm sure if you look around, you could get the stack for a bit cheaper :).

My HiFiMan HE400i came in yesterday, don't know why I'd not jumped on it previously, I find myself liking it a lot, from the sound to just how great it looks.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/06_zpsvfuuybgi.jpg)


A group shot of my cans, I'd forgotten to include the DT990/600 which was hooked up to my Marantz receiver......
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/10_zpszmdrfixv.jpg)


Holy **** I'm jealous. I tried the HE400i at binge's house and they're great. I thought I was set on my audio setup but now I find myself looking at those cans and an Aune T1 again...

Current stack:

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7298/16388548901_4b5b7f5dd0_h.jpg)

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/15767835174_6648d76314_h.jpg)

Show Image
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/15770277103_565a0b7f58_h.jpg)


You're back to a Magni and Modi? I'm surprised. I thought you were on Vali/Modi.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Tue, 03 February 2015, 10:03:56
I really want a stack of Schiit. How do you guys rate them?
If you are just starting out in audio or have a strict budget the magni modi 2 combo is awesome for the $200 ish dollars you pay.

I think I will need to get some new cans, either some DT770s or HD598s, then look at a good AMP/DAC stack. But I think that's a good start point, so thanks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jixr on Tue, 03 February 2015, 11:02:12
Nothing too fancy, but I recently upgrades from my old koss dj-100's ( really good for the price ) to some Audio Technica m50x's, and I really like them. not as loud or impressive as I would hope, but they are super comfortable to me, which is something thats really nice about them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 03 February 2015, 11:29:48
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 03 February 2015, 12:12:25
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:

Interestingly enough... a suggestion given to me by someone else here on GH was perfect for adding the right kind of bass to the HE400i/560.

If you use windows go to your sound devices> right click on your device> go to device properties> enhancements > check Bass Boost and apply settings.  You can also EQ it yourself by cutting the low mids, mids, highs by at most 8dB and then compensating with more amp volume.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 03 February 2015, 13:25:23
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:

Interestingly enough... a suggestion given to me by someone else here on GH was perfect for adding the right kind of bass to the HE400i/560.

If you use windows go to your sound devices> right click on your device> go to device properties> enhancements > check Bass Boost and apply settings.  You can also EQ it yourself by cutting the low mids, mids, highs by at most 8dB and then compensating with more amp volume.

I tend to not mess with those enhancements but I will go ahead and try that today when I get home from work. Thanks Binge! Which of those 2 are you using?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 03 February 2015, 13:33:50
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:

Interestingly enough... a suggestion given to me by someone else here on GH was perfect for adding the right kind of bass to the HE400i/560.

If you use windows go to your sound devices> right click on your device> go to device properties> enhancements > check Bass Boost and apply settings.  You can also EQ it yourself by cutting the low mids, mids, highs by at most 8dB and then compensating with more amp volume.

I tend to not mess with those enhancements but I will go ahead and try that today when I get home from work. Thanks Binge! Which of those 2 are you using?

I own and love both of them.  I have an Aune T1 with the 400i and a O2/ODAC with the 560.  I'm getting a different amp/dac soon.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 03 February 2015, 13:46:28
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:

Interestingly enough... a suggestion given to me by someone else here on GH was perfect for adding the right kind of bass to the HE400i/560.

If you use windows go to your sound devices> right click on your device> go to device properties> enhancements > check Bass Boost and apply settings.  You can also EQ it yourself by cutting the low mids, mids, highs by at most 8dB and then compensating with more amp volume.

I tend to not mess with those enhancements but I will go ahead and try that today when I get home from work. Thanks Binge! Which of those 2 are you using?

I own and love both of them.  I have an Aune T1 with the 400i and a O2/ODAC with the 560.  I'm getting a different amp/dac soon.

Nice. I had an Odac before no O2, and loved the clarity. I had to stop myself from the constant upgrading/side upgrade and just went full end game. How do those 2 differ though?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Doyniish on Tue, 03 February 2015, 20:10:30
Good Schiit! I haven't had an opportunity to hear the TH900 yet.

Here's my stack:

Show Image
(http://i840.photobucket.com/albums/zz328/stalker81598/geekhack/DSC_9701-Edit_zpsvyiatjq7.jpg~original)


Beautiful!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 03 February 2015, 23:06:24
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:

Interestingly enough... a suggestion given to me by someone else here on GH was perfect for adding the right kind of bass to the HE400i/560.

If you use windows go to your sound devices> right click on your device> go to device properties> enhancements > check Bass Boost and apply settings.  You can also EQ it yourself by cutting the low mids, mids, highs by at most 8dB and then compensating with more amp volume.

Just tried the bass boost option, unfortunately, I didn't like it...  :(. To me it just messed with the sound too much, everything else became muted and the bass felt artificially lifted. The bass without any enhancements is still great I just wish it had a bit more head rattle. Thanks for that heads up though, I will probably play around with it a little more.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 03 February 2015, 23:17:42
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:

Interestingly enough... a suggestion given to me by someone else here on GH was perfect for adding the right kind of bass to the HE400i/560.

If you use windows go to your sound devices> right click on your device> go to device properties> enhancements > check Bass Boost and apply settings.  You can also EQ it yourself by cutting the low mids, mids, highs by at most 8dB and then compensating with more amp volume.

Just tried the bass boost option, unfortunately, I didn't like it...  :(. To me it just messed with the sound too much, everything else became muted and the bass felt artificially lifted. The bass without any enhancements is still great I just wish it had a bit more head rattle. Thanks for that heads up though, I will probably play around with it a little more.

Yeah it is food for thought. EQ is much better if you cut, and the Microsoft bass boost is a great example of that ideology.   It reduces the low mids mids and highs by -4dB.  All things considered you may only need a good 1-2 dB cut instead.  The 400i have a fantastic sound, and my wife likes them stock.  I think on my O2/ODAC the bass boost is almost necessary if I want to relax.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 03 February 2015, 23:35:49
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:

Interestingly enough... a suggestion given to me by someone else here on GH was perfect for adding the right kind of bass to the HE400i/560.

If you use windows go to your sound devices> right click on your device> go to device properties> enhancements > check Bass Boost and apply settings.  You can also EQ it yourself by cutting the low mids, mids, highs by at most 8dB and then compensating with more amp volume.

Just tried the bass boost option, unfortunately, I didn't like it...  :(. To me it just messed with the sound too much, everything else became muted and the bass felt artificially lifted. The bass without any enhancements is still great I just wish it had a bit more head rattle. Thanks for that heads up though, I will probably play around with it a little more.

Yeah it is food for thought. EQ is much better if you cut, and the Microsoft bass boost is a great example of that ideology.   It reduces the low mids mids and highs by -4dB.  All things considered you may only need a good 1-2 dB cut instead.  The 400i have a fantastic sound, and my wife likes them stock.  I think on my O2/ODAC the bass boost is almost necessary if I want to relax.

Yeah the 400i has a very lovely sound signature. They are so much more clear than the original HE400's.

Is your O2/Odac in a single housing? When I had my stand alone Odac I actually found that if you plugged headphones straight into the output you would get massive amounts of bass. Like unholy amounts of bass. Just something interesting I found haha.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 04 February 2015, 09:12:59
Padawan what amps/dacs are you running? After you get ample head time let me know what you think of the HE400i's bass. Personally I am a bit underwhelmed  :( but everything else about it is great, the highs are so clear, the mids are full and the sound stage on them is fantastic. I really need some closed headphones  :rolleyes:

Interestingly enough... a suggestion given to me by someone else here on GH was perfect for adding the right kind of bass to the HE400i/560.

If you use windows go to your sound devices> right click on your device> go to device properties> enhancements > check Bass Boost and apply settings.  You can also EQ it yourself by cutting the low mids, mids, highs by at most 8dB and then compensating with more amp volume.

Just tried the bass boost option, unfortunately, I didn't like it...  :(. To me it just messed with the sound too much, everything else became muted and the bass felt artificially lifted. The bass without any enhancements is still great I just wish it had a bit more head rattle. Thanks for that heads up though, I will probably play around with it a little more.

Yeah it is food for thought. EQ is much better if you cut, and the Microsoft bass boost is a great example of that ideology.   It reduces the low mids mids and highs by -4dB.  All things considered you may only need a good 1-2 dB cut instead.  The 400i have a fantastic sound, and my wife likes them stock.  I think on my O2/ODAC the bass boost is almost necessary if I want to relax.

Yeah the 400i has a very lovely sound signature. They are so much more clear than the original HE400's.

Is your O2/Odac in a single housing? When I had my stand alone Odac I actually found that if you plugged headphones straight into the output you would get massive amounts of bass. Like unholy amounts of bass. Just something interesting I found haha.

It's in a single housing, but I still have outputs for the odac.  The line output will get more harmonic distortion depending on the load put on it, so I really don't appreciate the sound so much.  It's designed to be used with a headphone amplifier's line input.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tasker on Wed, 04 February 2015, 09:28:11
Got myself a pair of Bose QuietComfort 15s for xmas. It's my first pair of proper noise cancelling headphones. They might not be as pro as some of the setups going on in this thread but I love them. Really comfortable and great sound (and they seriously help cut out all that noise while I'm walking around the city centre!).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 04 February 2015, 18:35:20
Scrub life, I got desperate enough to fix my M50s and I'm currently using them until all my stuff comes back from RMA.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 07 February 2015, 06:50:15
A couple of audio source hardware purchases since I'm done with buying cans (I hope! :p ). A Schiit Vali and a Light Harmonic Geek Pulse....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/geek%20pulse_zps8r5buwbm.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 07 February 2015, 13:09:00
A couple of audio source hardware purchases since I'm done with buying cans (I hope! :p ). A Schiit Vali and a Light Harmonic Geek Pulse....
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/geek%20pulse_zps8r5buwbm.jpg)


Sweet... I am on the payment plan for the Geek Pulse right now. How do you like it so far? Once I get that, I will pretty much be done getting audio gear for a while, It will be just my geek pulse and wa7 fireflies holding it down  :p Also question, in your opinion Padawan, whats the better all around end game, HD800 or Audeze LCD-2/3?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Sat, 07 February 2015, 13:22:39
I have a bunch of headphones, partially because I do home recording, but also just because I like headphones. None of them are terribly expensive, but I have some Grado SR-60s, Sennheiser HD 280 pro, AKG 240, KRK KNS 6400. Sony MDR-7502 Pro, Sony MDR10RNC plus various cheaper ones.

But my favorite right now are quite inexpensive. Koss QZ-99, big, sturdy, tight, passive noise reduction headphones. Some people say they aren't bassy enough, but I prefer not to add too much bass to the source material anyway, and they reduce noise better than my MDR10RNCs, which are fairly good. Also, for recording, they don't leak much sound either, so I don't get a lot of bleed when I am recording vocals.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Sat, 07 February 2015, 14:09:59
What I am rocking right now

[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 09 February 2015, 17:53:13
sold my schiit stack ;_;

need to buy mm2 uber now.

but need to sell my jvc to fund it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Mon, 09 February 2015, 18:21:52
sold my schiit stack ;_;

need to buy mm2 uber now.

but need to sell my jvc to fund it.

I didn't get the Uber ones. But these mm2's are still amazing. It powers the DT990s wonderfully. But now I have been eyeballing the HD600's..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 09 February 2015, 18:25:50
im looking at ubers for the optical out and so i can connect speakers. sometimes i dont feel like wearing headphones :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Mon, 09 February 2015, 18:31:40
im looking at ubers for the optical out and so i can connect speakers. sometimes i dont feel like wearing headphones :P

Hmm good point. I don't have room on my desk for speakers, but would RCA splitters work?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 09 February 2015, 18:41:00
sold my schiit stack ;_;

need to buy mm2 uber now.

but need to sell my jvc to fund it.

I didn't get the Uber ones. But these mm2's are still amazing. It powers the DT990s wonderfully. But now I have been eyeballing the HD600's..

Don't fall into the trap of side-grading. Just save up and actually UPGRADE. It is worth it  :thumb: Something I need to learn as well haha.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 09 February 2015, 19:30:55
So I've got my Spirit One S and HP50s back now. Not enjoying the sound of the Spirit One S as much as the HP50s, but the HP50s are just too uncomfortable for me to wear long term. Comfort of the Focals are slightly above average. Thinking about selling both of them now :\
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Mon, 09 February 2015, 19:32:59
So I've got my Spirit One S and HP50s back now. Not enjoying the sound of the Spirit One S as much as the HP50s, but the HP50s are just too uncomfortable for me to wear long term. Comfort of the Focals are slightly above average. Thinking about selling both of them now :\

What is uncomfortable about them? I thought the DT990's pinched way to much and I could only wear it for about an hour. I left them bent out on some books for 2 days, then used my hand to flex the band a bit more. Heavenly bliss now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 09 February 2015, 19:54:32
So I've got my Spirit One S and HP50s back now. Not enjoying the sound of the Spirit One S as much as the HP50s, but the HP50s are just too uncomfortable for me to wear long term. Comfort of the Focals are slightly above average. Thinking about selling both of them now :\

What is uncomfortable about them? I thought the DT990's pinched way to much and I could only wear it for about an hour. I left them bent out on some books for 2 days, then used my hand to flex the band a bit more. Heavenly bliss now.

The clamp + glasses is killing me, and the headband is kinda awkward. Earcups aren't deep enough either, even after doing a spacer mod with cables. Literally my most comfortable set of cans right now are my M50s but I dislike their sound greatly.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 09 February 2015, 20:03:49
So I've got my Spirit One S and HP50s back now. Not enjoying the sound of the Spirit One S as much as the HP50s, but the HP50s are just too uncomfortable for me to wear long term. Comfort of the Focals are slightly above average. Thinking about selling both of them now :\

What is uncomfortable about them? I thought the DT990's pinched way to much and I could only wear it for about an hour. I left them bent out on some books for 2 days, then used my hand to flex the band a bit more. Heavenly bliss now.

The clamp + glasses is killing me, and the headband is kinda awkward. Earcups aren't deep enough either, even after doing a spacer mod with cables. Literally my most comfortable set of cans right now are my M50s but I dislike their sound greatly.

Sell them all and upgrade to one better pair?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 09 February 2015, 20:12:27
So I've got my Spirit One S and HP50s back now. Not enjoying the sound of the Spirit One S as much as the HP50s, but the HP50s are just too uncomfortable for me to wear long term. Comfort of the Focals are slightly above average. Thinking about selling both of them now :\

What is uncomfortable about them? I thought the DT990's pinched way to much and I could only wear it for about an hour. I left them bent out on some books for 2 days, then used my hand to flex the band a bit more. Heavenly bliss now.

The clamp + glasses is killing me, and the headband is kinda awkward. Earcups aren't deep enough either, even after doing a spacer mod with cables. Literally my most comfortable set of cans right now are my M50s but I dislike their sound greatly.

Sell them all and upgrade to one better pair?

That's the  plan!!! but to what? :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 09 February 2015, 20:19:59
So I've got my Spirit One S and HP50s back now. Not enjoying the sound of the Spirit One S as much as the HP50s, but the HP50s are just too uncomfortable for me to wear long term. Comfort of the Focals are slightly above average. Thinking about selling both of them now :\

What is uncomfortable about them? I thought the DT990's pinched way to much and I could only wear it for about an hour. I left them bent out on some books for 2 days, then used my hand to flex the band a bit more. Heavenly bliss now.

The clamp + glasses is killing me, and the headband is kinda awkward. Earcups aren't deep enough either, even after doing a spacer mod with cables. Literally my most comfortable set of cans right now are my M50s but I dislike their sound greatly.

Sell them all and upgrade to one better pair?

That's the  plan!!! but to what? :D

Well what is your preferred sound signature? Do you want open or closed? Also what are you driving it with? I am sure comfort is high up there since you mentioned your glasses. Also budget, do you want to spend all the money you make from selling your other cans?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 09 February 2015, 20:41:56
So I've got my Spirit One S and HP50s back now. Not enjoying the sound of the Spirit One S as much as the HP50s, but the HP50s are just too uncomfortable for me to wear long term. Comfort of the Focals are slightly above average. Thinking about selling both of them now :\

What is uncomfortable about them? I thought the DT990's pinched way to much and I could only wear it for about an hour. I left them bent out on some books for 2 days, then used my hand to flex the band a bit more. Heavenly bliss now.

The clamp + glasses is killing me, and the headband is kinda awkward. Earcups aren't deep enough either, even after doing a spacer mod with cables. Literally my most comfortable set of cans right now are my M50s but I dislike their sound greatly.

Sell them all and upgrade to one better pair?

That's the  plan!!! but to what? :D

Well what is your preferred sound signature? Do you want open or closed? Also what are you driving it with? I am sure comfort is high up there since you mentioned your glasses. Also budget, do you want to spend all the money you make from selling your other cans?

I'm going pretty all in once I sell them both, all towards new closed cans. Sound signature I like is neutral, maybe some warmth similar to the HP50s. Driving them with E17 for now until I get a stack. The Squad has been recommending me Fostex TH600s :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 09 February 2015, 20:47:28
So I've got my Spirit One S and HP50s back now. Not enjoying the sound of the Spirit One S as much as the HP50s, but the HP50s are just too uncomfortable for me to wear long term. Comfort of the Focals are slightly above average. Thinking about selling both of them now :\

What is uncomfortable about them? I thought the DT990's pinched way to much and I could only wear it for about an hour. I left them bent out on some books for 2 days, then used my hand to flex the band a bit more. Heavenly bliss now.

The clamp + glasses is killing me, and the headband is kinda awkward. Earcups aren't deep enough either, even after doing a spacer mod with cables. Literally my most comfortable set of cans right now are my M50s but I dislike their sound greatly.

Sell them all and upgrade to one better pair?

That's the  plan!!! but to what? :D

Well what is your preferred sound signature? Do you want open or closed? Also what are you driving it with? I am sure comfort is high up there since you mentioned your glasses. Also budget, do you want to spend all the money you make from selling your other cans?

I'm going pretty all in once I sell them both, all towards new closed cans. Sound signature I like is neutral, maybe some warmth similar to the HP50s. Driving them with E17 for now until I get a stack. The Squad has been recommending me Fostex TH600s :P

Those are some nifty cans. Another suggestion would be the Mr. Speakers Mad dogs or Alpha dogs if you can stretch that far.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Mon, 09 February 2015, 21:52:12
I picked up some Sennheiser HD 598s from Amazon Warehouse Deals for $120... I think I might like them more than my AKG K7XX ($200) - they sound amazing and they're comfy as all ****.  :-X  :-\ fml
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Mon, 09 February 2015, 21:53:58
I picked up some Sennheiser HD 598s from Amazon Warehouse Deals for $120... I think I might like them more than my AKG K7XX ($200) - they sound amazing and they're comfy as all ****.  :-X  :-\ fml

I need to try those.  The best headphones I've tried to date are some Beyerdynamics.  I think they were DT 770s.  As soon as I see a pair of DT 770s, DT 880s, or DT 990s down around $100 again, I think I'll be grabbing one.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 09 February 2015, 22:04:49
I picked up some Sennheiser HD 598s from Amazon Warehouse Deals for $120... I think I might like them more than my AKG K7XX ($200) - they sound amazing and they're comfy as all ****.  :-X  :-\ fml

Love love love the 598s. I'll take Senn over AKG any day.

I picked up some Sennheiser HD 598s from Amazon Warehouse Deals for $120... I think I might like them more than my AKG K7XX ($200) - they sound amazing and they're comfy as all ****.  :-X  :-\ fml

I need to try those.  The best headphones I've tried to date are some Beyerdynamics.  I think they were DT 770s.  As soon as I see a pair of DT 770s, DT 880s, or DT 990s down around $100 again, I think I'll be grabbing one.

I picked up some Sennheiser HD 598s from Amazon Warehouse Deals for $120... I think I might like them more than my AKG K7XX ($200) - they sound amazing and they're comfy as all ****.  :-X  :-\ fml

I need to try those.  The best headphones I've tried to date are some Beyerdynamics.  I think they were DT 770s.  As soon as I see a pair of DT 770s, DT 880s, or DT 990s down around $100 again, I think I'll be grabbing one.

Might be tough to hit that price point for new pairs but definitely possible with used ones. Any of those 3 would be great.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Mon, 09 February 2015, 22:10:55
I picked up some Sennheiser HD 598s from Amazon Warehouse Deals for $120... I think I might like them more than my AKG K7XX ($200) - they sound amazing and they're comfy as all ****.  :-X  :-\ fml

I need to try those.  The best headphones I've tried to date are some Beyerdynamics.  I think they were DT 770s.  As soon as I see a pair of DT 770s, DT 880s, or DT 990s down around $100 again, I think I'll be grabbing one.
Been eying the Beyers as well, thinking a closed headphone like the 770 would be a good compliment to my AKGs, but after being blown away by the 598s I think I'd want to test-drive before buying if at all possible - I need to find a good hi-fi shop in the area to sample some cans! If you ever want to borrow the 598s to test 'em out let me know :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ludovician on Wed, 11 February 2015, 00:08:52
I use these:
http://www.head-fi.org/products/german-maestro-gmp-8-35-d-monitor-headphone

Had them for a  couple of years now, love em.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 11 February 2015, 13:23:54
I prefer the HD598 over the K/Q7xx as well. The AKGs sound a bit thin and harsh with some peaks in the upper mids that make them fatiguing to me. They have a grainy, dry sound. The HD598 is just on the warm side of neutral and has a much more euphonic sound that is never fatiguing.

Picked up a Beyerdynamic T1 last week and I am really enjoying it. It definitely impressed me more out of the box than the HD800 did when I first heard it. I've never heard a headphone with such a buttery smooth midrange that presents with this level of detail and finesse. By comparison, the soundstage of the HD800 is larger in the sense that sounds seem farther away, and somehow less tangible. The T1 places sounds slightly closer with equal positional accuracy and an absolutely mind blowing level of clarity.

It's still a bit to early to decide for sure, but this thing may drive me to liquidate my HD800.

(http://i840.photobucket.com/albums/zz328/stalker81598/geekhack/DSC_3068_zpsdu7n7308.jpg~original)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 11 February 2015, 13:26:36
Damn what a beautiful set up
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Wed, 11 February 2015, 13:32:46
That's some serious headphone porn right there!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Wed, 11 February 2015, 18:29:53
That is a serious bit of kit... So jealous.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 12 February 2015, 00:03:08
Recently, I called the local distributor of AKG in my neck of the woods, told them I'd lost the screw on adapter for my can. They graciously sent a replacement via mail FOC, I can't tell you how surprised I was with this level of good service, the package arrived today....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpsipp7szh6.jpg)
Yes, I could simply have used any adapter but the anal guy in me wants an exact fit AKG adapter.....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Creizai on Thu, 12 February 2015, 10:48:30
I prefer the HD598 over the K/Q7xx as well. The AKGs sound a bit thin and harsh with some peaks in the upper mids that make them fatiguing to me. They have a grainy, dry sound. The HD598 is just on the warm side of neutral and has a much more euphonic sound that is never fatiguing.

Picked up a Beyerdynamic T1 last week and I am really enjoying it. It definitely impressed me more out of the box than the HD800 did when I first heard it. I've never heard a headphone with such a buttery smooth midrange that presents with this level of detail and finesse. By comparison, the soundstage of the HD800 is larger in the sense that sounds seem farther away, and somehow less tangible. The T1 places sounds slightly closer with equal positional accuracy and an absolutely mind blowing level of clarity.

It's still a bit to early to decide for sure, but this thing may drive me to liquidate my HD800.

Show Image
(http://i840.photobucket.com/albums/zz328/stalker81598/geekhack/DSC_3068_zpsdu7n7308.jpg~original)


Mind me asking what camera are you using?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 12 February 2015, 11:51:44

Mind me asking what camera are you using?

It's a Nikon Df with a 50mm Zeiss Planar T
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Thu, 12 February 2015, 11:54:04

Mind me asking what camera are you using?

It's a Nikon Df with a 50mm Zeiss Planar T
Damn, your camera game is as on point as your headphone game!  :eek:  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: supersoul on Fri, 13 February 2015, 01:23:30
do ear phones count? love my shure se215s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: MythicalWagyu on Fri, 13 February 2015, 01:40:27
do ear phones count? love my shure se215s
I see no reason to discriminate, post 'em up! Seems like you aren't the only one happy with em: http://www.head-fi.org/products/shure-se215
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Sun, 15 February 2015, 13:43:29
do ear phones count? love my shure se215s

I have a pair for the gym and my right ear cuts out at certain angles.  I know there's a pin mod but I haven't gotten around to doing it yet.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Sun, 15 February 2015, 19:23:14
So not exactly a headphone question, but I didn't think it warranted a new thread. I want to get a subwoofer for a home setup, what should I look for if I just want to find an old one of Ebay? And this (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Lepai-LP-2020A-Tripath-Class-T-Hi-Fi-Audio-Mini-Amp-with-Power-Supply-310-300-/321471614365?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ad9338d9d) is the amp I have, I'm assuming I'll need a new one?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 16 February 2015, 06:55:07
So not exactly a headphone question, but I didn't think it warranted a new thread. I want to get a subwoofer, what should I look for if I just want to find an old one of Ebay? And this (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Lepai-LP-2020A-Tripath-Class-T-Hi-Fi-Audio-Mini-Amp-with-Power-Supply-310-300-/321471614365?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ad9338d9d) is the amp I have, I'm assuming I'll need a new one?

A sub for home or car?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Mon, 16 February 2015, 07:33:07
So not exactly a headphone question, but I didn't think it warranted a new thread. I want to get a subwoofer, what should I look for if I just want to find an old one of Ebay? And this (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Lepai-LP-2020A-Tripath-Class-T-Hi-Fi-Audio-Mini-Amp-with-Power-Supply-310-300-/321471614365?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ad9338d9d) is the amp I have, I'm assuming I'll need a new one?

A sub for home or car?
whoops, for home.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Eszett on Mon, 16 February 2015, 07:35:31
I'm trying to find a wireless pair of headphones that won't cost me a damn fortune..

Me too. JayBird BlueBuds X have good critics, but are way expensive. Any alternatives?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 16 February 2015, 09:26:03
So not exactly a headphone question, but I didn't think it warranted a new thread. I want to get a subwoofer, what should I look for if I just want to find an old one of Ebay? And this (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Lepai-LP-2020A-Tripath-Class-T-Hi-Fi-Audio-Mini-Amp-with-Power-Supply-310-300-/321471614365?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ad9338d9d) is the amp I have, I'm assuming I'll need a new one?

A sub for home or car?
whoops, for home.

I just have a 5:1 integrated system which works pretty well, but I guess if you have a set of decent speakers already, you are going to want a separate sub...

I'm not that familiar with subs, but I think you may need a new one, as that one puts out only 20W. But I'm not sure.

I'm trying to find a wireless pair of headphones that won't cost me a damn fortune..

Me too. JayBird BlueBuds X have good critics, but are way expensive. Any alternatives?

Over ear or in ear?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 19 February 2015, 07:49:26
I decided to use my Geek Pulse on my 2nd rig, I replaced it with an iFi iDSD Nano + Lyr stack, liking what I see and hear thus far....oh yeah, since they have that aluminum look, I decided to break out my YoTH again. ;)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/004_zpskvoozlfy.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 19 February 2015, 10:08:54
I decided to use my Geek Pulse on my 2nd rig, I replaced it with an iFi iDSD Nano + Lyr stack, liking what I see and hear thus far....oh yeah, since they have that aluminum look, I decided to break out my YoTH again. ;)
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/004_zpskvoozlfy.jpg)

I've still got 2 more payments on my geek pulse :( should see it around April though. Can you give some impressions? There are so few reviews out there it makes me worried. Have you heard of lachlan likes a thing? If you haven't try googling it. He is some small reviewer that got a faulty unit and kind of bashed the Geek Pulse.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 19 February 2015, 10:21:46
I've still got 2 more payments on my geek pulse :( should see it around April though. Can you give some impressions? There are so few reviews out there it makes me worried. Have you heard of lachlan likes a thing? If you haven't try googling it. He is some small reviewer that got a faulty unit and kind of bashed the Geek Pulse.
I know, that lachlanlikesathing YT reviews he does, and yes, his was apparently a faulty unit. No issue with mine, though I've been warned that I should always power on first, wait a few sec BEFORE plugging in my cans. When you're done listening, always unplug the can first before powering off. I follow that regime and thus have no issue. As for sound, I don't have golden ears, but I do find the Lyr + Nano iDSD stack to have a little more 'weight', plus the tilt towards warmer sound is always welcomed.....to me at least. Mine is the Geek Pulse Standard, no perks and whatnot, it is actually quite a capable unit, sounds pretty good and powerful enough to drive my DT990/600, LCD2.2 and HD800 with ease.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 19 February 2015, 10:34:40
I've still got 2 more payments on my geek pulse :( should see it around April though. Can you give some impressions? There are so few reviews out there it makes me worried. Have you heard of lachlan likes a thing? If you haven't try googling it. He is some small reviewer that got a faulty unit and kind of bashed the Geek Pulse.
I know, that lachlanlikesathing YT reviews he does, and yes, his was apparently a faulty unit. No issue with mine, though I've been warned that I should always power on first, wait a few sec BEFORE plugging in my cans. When you're done listening, always unplug the can first before powering off. I follow that regime and thus have no issue. As for sound, I don't have golden ears, but I do find the Lyr + Nano iDSD stack to have a little more 'weight', plus the tilt towards warmer sound is always welcomed.....to me at least. Mine is the Geek Pulse Standard, no perks and whatnot, it is actually quite a capable unit, sounds pretty good and powerful enough to drive my DT990/600, LCD2.2 and HD800 with ease.
That's good to hear. I would hate to have buyers remorse before I even receive mine lol. But since I got the wa7 my plan is to use the Geek Pulse as a dac since everyone raves over the dac chip used. That's good the amp is powerful but I'm guessing the tubes of the lyr are just too good I'm sure.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 19 February 2015, 11:22:24
Yep, I'm somewhat into tube rolling, the stock GE tubes were a tad coarse, the Telefunken 6DJ8 I am using now smoothened that coarseness. Even bought a pair of Amperex and am now thing of scoring a couple of Mullard.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 19 February 2015, 12:56:37
That geek pulse should power a good deal of cans, it's got a 3W peak output at 32 ohm  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Sat, 21 February 2015, 21:03:11
Does anyone have one of these and can comment on it? https://www.massdrop.com/buy/musiland-monitor-02us-dragon-dac-amp?s=amp

Looking for a reasonably priced dac/amp for gaming and music.

I have a Gigabyte Z97 Gaming 7 motherboard with Realtek ALC1150 and Creative SoundBlaster X-Fi MB3 gaming audio suite and I'm using an Audio Technica ATH-ADG1 gaming headset. I've also got an Asus Xonar DX7.1 sound card from my old PC build.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Korth on Sun, 22 February 2015, 22:30:18
Total headphone noob here, no lies.

I've done some reading at audiophile sites.  I have a glimmer of understanding about what sort of audio gear I would want to buy, and why, and what my options are at different price points.  I'm even trying to teach myself how to listen with a more critical, trained ear.  Not to become an audiophile elitist, of course, but only to be able to properly enjoy my sound quality (although I guess it's a slippery slope).

Then again - I currently use onboard audio (ALC1150), cheapish 2.1 speakers (Z523 40W), and a 3.5mm headset (Siberia V2) for most of my entertainment (some movies, some music, some gaming) and I'm not too unhappy.  A proper soundcard and better headphone/headset, chosen in the context of audio quality, are what I'm currently considering.  I'm thinking that serious audio equipment, equalizers, amps, etc, aren't my thing just yet - software can do it well enough for my needs.

A quick question, though:

What sort of audio quality can be expected from headsets built for aviation and military industries?  I expect the engineering of these things prioritizes durability and reliability and communications redundancy.  And a lot of sound damping, of course.  Perhaps also some optimization towards voice-frequency audio quality.  Maybe even some a few communications security (encryption) features and compatibility with all sorts of weird interfaces.  But - as ridiculous as it might be - how well would an aviation headset sound for general music playback and PC gaming and chatting?

No, I'm not really into sporting a helicopter pilot headset for leet gam0rz pwnage dominance, shooting for looks and bling and style, all surface no substance.  Well, not a lot, maybe just a little.  I mean, I've seen such headsets ebay for cheap ($25-50) and they do indeed look quite cool, and there's no reason not to swap out "bad" audio components for better ones to get the best of both worlds.  Not seriously high-end snooty audiophile stuff, definitely no Turtle Beach or Bose or Sennheiser brand whoring, but I think it shouldn't be completely impossible to expect some "surprisingly good" audio quality, no?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Sun, 22 February 2015, 22:44:13

No, I'm not really into sporting a helicopter pilot headset for leet gam0rz pwnage dominance, shooting for looks and bling and style, all surface no substance.  Well, not a lot, maybe just a little.  I mean, I've seen such headsets ebay for cheap ($25-50) and they do indeed look quite cool, and there's no reason not to swap out "bad" audio components for better ones to get the best of both worlds.  Not seriously high-end snooty audiophile stuff, definitely no Turtle Beach or Bose or Sennheiser brand whoring, but I think it shouldn't be completely impossible to expect some "surprisingly good" audio quality, no?

They are cool, I have often wanted to rock some Airwolf style cans, but they aren't necessarily designed for music; they are designed so you can hear human speech over helicopter engines and rotor blades. I think they also use a different connector, though that's not insurmountable.

Have you looked at something like the Koss Pro4AA? They are built like tanks, have liquid filled ear pads, and good isolation (though for mega passive isolation look at the Koss QZ-99). They also have a stud that can be used to mount a microphone (in theory, though which microphone in particular is ready for the mount isn't clear.)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Korth on Sun, 22 February 2015, 23:53:48
http://www.pilot-europe.com/aviation-headsets/passive-headsets%20/p51-ptt

I've been looking at this P51 PTT model in particular, love the look.  Largely because the look looks very functional and comfortable.  I've seen a few auction cheap - it seems this is a very common flight school/student model and most "serious" pilots end up $$$$ upgrading to something better.  So I don't really expect audio quality to be the greatest, but it should be easy enough to swap different speakers and electronics into those cans, while rewiring switches and connectors is trivial enough (if necessary at all, those PJ-055 plugs appear to be electrically compatible with 1/4" patch cords).  Other, similarly styled and priced, products would be more or less equivalent for my purposes.

I understand that headphone engineering is a deep and dark science and the topic of much endless debate among enthusiasts.  But to me, headset priorities are simple:
1) deliver good quality audio, good volume, minimal distortion, good (at least basic 20Hz-20KHz) frequency response - perhaps emphasize low- and mid-range a little since I don't really enjoy hearing highest-frequency noises anyhow
2) be comfortable to wear for long durations - without involving any complex leather straps or harnesses, lol
3) look good while I'm wearing them!
4) be reasonably affordable - but I never mind paying more for a product when I'm convinced I'm actually going to get more of what I want for the price.

So it just needs to sound pretty good, not be uncomfortable, look cool, and be somewhat inexpensive - easy-peasy!

I guess also:
5) microphone should work, but I hardly care how well so long as my minions can properly hear what I say

To be honest, it seems that wordy audiophile concepts like "a rich, complex soundstage" and "lively, bright responsiveness" and "bringing clarity and focus to each instrument" are highly subjective and (for now, at least) not something my unlearned ear can truly discern or appreciate.  I suspect, too, that these sorts of things have a lot more to do with the actual sound source (for me the actual mp3 file data, audiocard codec specs, and processing capabilities of the player software).  That being said, I won't outright dismiss or ignore the insights and opinions and advice of countless audiophiles initiated to the secret deep details of headphone science and headphone art which I only barely know exist.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Korth on Mon, 23 February 2015, 00:15:43
http://www.modmic.com/

I have seen a lot of these AntLion ModMics floating around at game cons, a perfect mic add-on for those Koss Pro4AA headphones.

To be honest I just don't think I get it.  Most gamers are wearing gamer headphones (which have decent but not-that-great audio) - and these cost about the same as the ModMic product.  Plus, gamer headsets are also available (which have about the same not-that-great audio) with a built-in mic - and these, too, cost about the same as the ModMic product.  I guess most gamers emphasize looks and style over everything else.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 23 February 2015, 01:06:26
I just ordered a set of Superlux HD681 Evos today. I guess I'll add a modmic to them if I like them ;) 

http://www.head-fi.org/products/superlux-hd-681-evo-black-professional-monitor-headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 25 February 2015, 08:28:36
Yet another can to my collection, Philips did go out of the way to build a can with good quality material, solid feel and premium look. Just started putting this can, Philips Fidelio X1, through its paces....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/x1%2001_zpsh4uklxdg.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Wed, 25 February 2015, 08:35:39
Yet another can to my collection, Philips did go out of the way to build a can with good quality material, solid feel and premium look. Just started putting this can, Philips Fidelio X1, through its paces....
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/x1%2001_zpsh4uklxdg.jpg)


You are spending all this money on headphones, where are your keyboards??
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Wed, 25 February 2015, 08:36:45
Yet another can to my collection, Philips did go out of the way to build a can with good quality material, solid feel and premium look. Just started putting this can, Philips Fidelio X1, through its paces....
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/x1%2001_zpsh4uklxdg.jpg)


You are spending all this money on headphones, where are your keyboards??

don't look at his sig :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 25 February 2015, 08:39:49
You are spending all this money on headphones, where are your keyboards??
Heh, I'm supposed to pick up a Ducky 4 69 Fire Edition, but the shop's kind of far from where I am, plus I usually busy come end of the month, plus I'll have to go to China for a short trip. Guess I'll pick it up by the end of the first week of March. I'm limiting myself to special or limited edition keyboards from now on.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 25 February 2015, 16:27:50
Sifo has joined the fostex squad hype
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Wed, 25 February 2015, 19:32:15
Sifo has joined the fostex squad hype

demik has joined the fostex squad, also
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 25 February 2015, 19:37:30
Sifo has joined the fostex squad hype

demik has joined the fostex squad, also

/me has been on the (modded) fostex squad hype
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Wed, 25 February 2015, 19:47:14
Sifo has joined the fostex squad hype

demik has joined the fostex squad, also

/me has been on the (modded) fostex squad hype

so was demik >.<
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Novus on Wed, 25 February 2015, 20:19:46
Can you guys please upgrade your dac and amp  :p now
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 25 February 2015, 20:25:08
Errone from d-squad on the fostex train now.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 25 February 2015, 20:29:27
Can you guys please upgrade your dac and amp  :p now

M/M2 STACK INCOMING (later)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 25 February 2015, 20:35:35
Sold my T90s to a coworker. They haven't been getting any head time and I didn't like how they sounded with the WA7. Sad to see them go but I guess I will be saving up for some HD800 or Audeze's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Thu, 26 February 2015, 00:42:16
Modded Fosteks like the ones from Mayflower?

I would love to get the Objective 2 / ODAC combo, or a magni/modi combo at some point, but I don't think it will be this year.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 26 February 2015, 00:45:28
DongKingNewAss has mad dogs I think, modded t50rps.. although there are tons of modded t50rps out there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Thu, 26 February 2015, 02:52:48
Sifo has joined the fostex squad hype

demik has joined the fostex squad, also

yesss
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 26 February 2015, 03:43:19
mfw my 1 keyboard still cost more than what I paid for my mint TH600s...that's  kinda sad
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 26 February 2015, 07:04:40
You are spending all this money on headphones, where are your keyboards??
Quoting you again, decided to keep my keyboard creds alive and kicking...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/ds4%2069_zpsuzfkhuyo.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Korth on Thu, 26 February 2015, 11:58:40
Now I'm looking to swap new 50mm drivers into my new (used) P51 unit, which currently sounds worse than Dollar Store headphones for music, it sounds all flat like an AM-radio on hyper treble, yet also utterly lacks any sort of bass percussion.  Other than sucky sound it is a truly awesome headset, lol.  I would use it for listening to music (metal, techno, industrial, rock, floyd, classical, dance, a little girly pop - pretty much anything which ain't hip hop or country), movies (mostly talking, emo soundtracks, loud motors, and sci-fi laser noises), and games (footsteps, explosions, gunfire, the occasional chainsaw, screams of agony, squishy butchering noises)- and I would want it all to sound its best!

I'm a hard tech, hard specs, results-oriented kinda guy, can't work a lot with vaguely qualitative (and totally subjective) audiophile descriptors.  I figure quality of sound reproduction in headphones must depend entirely on a combination of:Not interested at this time in re-lining or re-designing the cans - besides, they are really comfy and have superb sound damping and truly superior build quality and they just look awesome.  But the electrical rework is simple enough.  And there are plenty of 50mm speaker parts available, most not very expensive.  But I'm confused about which would likely serve my needs best, which frequency response parameters would actually matter most.  Narrowed it down to two products -
http://szhonson.en.alibaba.com/product/826570668-218406959/50mm_32_Ohms_20mW_Headphone_Speaker.html
http://szhonson.en.alibaba.com/product/826581539-218406959/50mm_70_Ohms_10mW_Headset_Speaker.html

Help, advice, please?

(My audio source can easily drive 16-300 Ohm speakers, and software amp/EQ/FX can easily tweak sound.)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 26 February 2015, 15:12:45
Now I'm looking to swap new 50mm drivers into my new (used) P51 unit, which currently sounds worse than Dollar Store headphones for music, it sounds all flat like an AM-radio on hyper treble, yet also utterly lacks any sort of bass percussion.  Other than sucky sound it is a truly awesome headset, lol.  I would use it for listening to music (metal, techno, industrial, rock, floyd, classical, dance, a little girly pop - pretty much anything which ain't hip hop or country), movies (mostly talking, emo soundtracks, loud motors, and sci-fi laser noises), and games (footsteps, explosions, gunfire, the occasional chainsaw, screams of agony, squishy butchering noises)- and I would want it all to sound its best!

I'm a hard tech, hard specs, results-oriented kinda guy, can't work a lot with vaguely qualitative (and totally subjective) audiophile descriptors.  I figure quality of sound reproduction in headphones must depend entirely on a combination of:
  • signal quality of the electrical pathway (wire gauge/conductance, connectors, etc)
  • actual performance parameters of the drivers/speakers
  • acoustic properties of materials around and between the drivers and the ear (damping-vs-frequency curves, etc)
  • acoustic properties of the spacial geometry within the cans (echoes, resonance, etc)
Not interested at this time in re-lining or re-designing the cans - besides, they are really comfy and have superb sound damping and truly superior build quality and they just look awesome.  But the electrical rework is simple enough.  And there are plenty of 50mm speaker parts available, most not very expensive.  But I'm confused about which would likely serve my needs best, which frequency response parameters would actually matter most.  Narrowed it down to two products -
http://szhonson.en.alibaba.com/product/826570668-218406959/50mm_32_Ohms_20mW_Headphone_Speaker.html
http://szhonson.en.alibaba.com/product/826581539-218406959/50mm_70_Ohms_10mW_Headset_Speaker.html

Help, advice, please?

(My audio source can easily drive 16-300 Ohm speakers, and software amp/EQ/FX can easily tweak sound.)

You can't really tell much about the sound of those once installed based on the frequency response charts given because it will be quite different depending on the shape/materials of the enclosure they are installed in (in this case your headphones). But judging by the information given, if you are looking for something that sounds better than dollar store headphones, I don't know if either of those would really be any kind of an upgrade at all. Both show enormous swings in amplitude at different frequencies in the range of 15-20dB and have very high THD.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 26 February 2015, 15:21:09
Our th600s shipped :D too bad I won't have mine for a while since I won't be home and I have tj modding it + proxy for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Korth on Thu, 26 February 2015, 16:48:50
<5% and <3% THD is "very high"?  What sort of THD figures would be considered "low" or even "average" then?

True, the dB amplitude-vs-frequency spikes and falls steeply over much of the rated range.  I suspect that it's a basically unavoidable engineering consideration, if only one (or a few) ideal-performance speaker part(s) with better-balanced frequency response existed then there wouldn't be such a wide array of similar-yet-different parts to select from, there wouldn't even be any need to manufacture so many parts in the first place.  And there wouldn't be any need for a headphone forum because everyone would be using the one-and-only best-and-only model available.

Or is there another engineering parameter - unit cost - which defines a short list of nearer-to-ideal parts, and I'm just looking at the chaff?

Agreed, bench-test frequency tests and real-world inside-the-can listening may not align perfectly.  Especially since the "listening" component is so variable and subjective.  But lacking any other reference (or the inclination to methodically install/simulate every an exhaustive number of speakers in my own cans), the specs will have to serve as a baseline.

My earlier question was intended more about asking which frequency ranges are more important, more commonly present in the type of listening I would like to do.  Which frequency ranges in the audible spectrum would my random music and lasers and butchering sounds tend to emphasize?  Armed with such information I could select the "optimal" speaker, disregarding the ones which underperform for my needs (and/or overperform in ways which fall outside of my needs), and - ultimately - end up with the best possible (or at least a reasonably great) headphone listening experience.

Only gonna have one or two headphones/headsets, not a different pair to don for each different mood and each different entertainment experience.  So I don't mind investing a little to get something good in return.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Thu, 26 February 2015, 17:00:46

My earlier question was intended more about asking which frequency ranges are more important, more commonly present in the type of listening I would like to do.  Which frequency ranges in the audible spectrum would my random music and lasers and butchering sounds tend to emphasize?  Armed with such information I could select the "optimal" speaker for my needs, disregard the ones which overperform in ways that fall outside of my needs, and - ultimately - end up with the best possible (or at least a mildly great) headphone listening experience.

Only gonna have one or two headphones, not a different pair for each different entertainment experience.  So I would like to invest a little and get something good in return.

You could do a spectrum analysis of the sounds you are listening to. Find an FFT analyzer online and put it in your signal path and see what you get. Then you can flatten, attenuate, or boost whatever frequencies (but boy, sounds a lot harder to do that in your speaker than with the EQ.)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Korth on Thu, 26 February 2015, 17:05:21
lol, thanx

Unfortunately, I have no spectrum analyzer (even though I've long yearned for one, I really have) and obtaining one would cost far, far more than a leet pair of headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Thu, 26 February 2015, 17:14:14
There should be free software FFTs that meet your needs. But it sounds like a lot of effort when you can just buy some reasonably priced, well regarded headphones based on objective data. If you want a flat response, look at studio monitors that people pin their livelihood on. They don't have to be extraordinarily expensive. $150-$200 can buy you excellent headphones.

Take your FLAC player to Guitar Center or someplace and listen to some after you do your research.

Also, subjective though you may be, you still have a preference. Do you want to emphasize the bass or hear it as it was recorded (and possibly assuming someone would boost it anyway), etc.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 26 February 2015, 17:23:37
<5% and <3% THD is "very high"?  What sort of THD figures would be considered "low" or even "average" then?

Yes, this is very high. For example, take a fairly inexpensive headphone like the Sennheiser HD598 which has a THD rating of <0.1%. A THD of 3-5% would have some clearly audible distortions.

My earlier question was intended more about asking which frequency ranges are more important, more commonly present in the type of listening I would like to do.  Which frequency ranges in the audible spectrum would my random music and lasers and butchering sounds tend to emphasize?  Armed with such information I could select the "optimal" speaker, disregarding the ones which underperform for my needs (and/or overperform in ways which fall outside of my needs), and - ultimately - end up with the best possible (or at least a reasonably great) headphone listening experience.

Only gonna have one or two headphones/headsets, not a different pair to don for each different mood and each different entertainment experience.  So I don't mind investing a little to get something good in return.

You may be approaching this from the wrong angle. Assume you determine that most of your uses produce lots of sounds in the 400-2000Hz range. That doesn't necessarily mean a headphone that has a higher amplitude between 400-2000Hz would sound better than any other headphone. The frequency response, along with other factors such as transient response time, decay, dryness/wetness, etc, will determine how it sounds and whether or not it sounds good for your use is a purely subjective thing. I might like a headphone with lots of detail in the highs for movies and games while you might prefer one with lots of rumbling low end. If you explain a little more about your sonic preferences, it might be easier to point you in the right direction.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Thu, 26 February 2015, 17:33:09
Also, objective though you may be, you still have a preference. Do you want to emphasize the bass or hear it as it was recorded (and possibly assuming someone would boost it anyway), etc.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 27 February 2015, 09:59:26
I'm ambivalent when it comes to brand and signature sounds of the various brands, I don't mind my cans being edgy or dark. I have the chance to trade my AKG K812 for the legendary Grado PS1000, while I'm NOT unhappy with the K812, I'd not mind trying out the PS1000. Should I move on this?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Korth on Fri, 27 February 2015, 19:43:49
@ Rayoui & brimborion:

Thanx for your responses, even though I didn't get the answers I wanted, lol.  My sonic preferences are basically just accurate reproduction of whatever the recorded audio was originally meant to sound like.  Sometimes I do want to tweak EQ a bit, amp it up (or down), apply some sort of sound envelope filter, adjust bass, whatever - and sometimes I don't - so I generally prefer the versatility of having speakers which report the sound "true" and "as-is", then making my alterations via hardware/software controls.  Not interested in headphone hardware which automatically pumps the bass or punches up the mids or clarifies voice, etc, regardless of my listening mood and content.  So I guess I prefer plain "studio" defaults.

You seem to be suggesting that my specs/tech/math approach isn't necessarily the best plan.  I admit that I can't really understand why that is, raw data never lies, lol.  Willing to compromise, follow advice and wisdom, head over to the hi-fi stores to personally experience and compare some headphone offerings, learn more about what I like and dislike.  (Maybe follow up by researching specs on the particular parts the "best" products use.)  Again, I'm still noob, I hardly even know audiophile terminology, let alone what it signifies.  I like technically precise (and thus technically meaningful, testable, reproducible) specs and definitions far, far more than subjective (and thus individualized and qualitative) expressions.  :p

On a side note, I've found lots of surprisingly capable free audio spectrum analysis software.  And some psychoacoustic demonstrations, audio tests, etc, which provided much useful information about my personal listening parameters.  Seems my older (and slightly abused) ears ain't quite as awesome as I'd thought, particularly on the high frequency extreme.

I ask you this:

If you have three headsets on your desk, only three, then which would they be and why?  What qualities does each one have which makes it better for one listening task but not another?  Which three products make your short list, what do you expect from them, and when/why do you reach for each one?  Your descriptions might help me a lot in understanding which aspects of a headphone should be important.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Fri, 27 February 2015, 20:11:44

You seem to be suggesting that my specs/tech/math approach isn't necessarily the best plan.  I admit that I can't really understand why that is, raw data never lies, lol.  Willing to compromise and head over to the hi-fi stores to personally test/experience/compare some headphone offerings, learn more about what I like and dislike.  (Maybe follow up by researching specs on the particular parts the "best" products use.)  Again, I'm still noob, I hardly even know audiophile terminology, let alone what it signifies.  I like technically precise (and thus technically meaningful, reproducible) definitions far more than subjective (and thus individualized qualitative) expressions.  :p


This is a bizarre position for me to be in; I am absolutely about the data. But then you suggested that you had specific audio frequencies that needed to be reproduced accurately and some that didn't.  And you said you wanted to "emphasize" some of those frequencies; suggesting you wanted to do more than simply reproduce them. You are presumably looking at frequency graphs for different headphones and seeing that by the nature of their design some frequencies are better represented than others across the spectrum; there are usually some spots that are more dead than others because speakers and enclosures are physical objects in the real world interacting with your head and ears, which are not even accounted for in those graphs.

Most reputable headphones excluding those doing spooky psychoacoustics or outright boosting the bass frequencies are suitable for general listening in the audible frequency spectrum, and it wouldn't make sense to track those graphs to the subset of sounds you think you will use it for; they are unlikely to match up and tomorrow you will be listening to a new type of noise.

3 headphones, out of my own meager collection: Grado SR 60 because I like the open back so I can hear background noises, my Pro4aa because I can't hear the background noises and provides a good seal on my skull, and the last one is harder, but probably the Sennheiser 280 Pro because it is a flatter response and I use them for mixing my own music. All of them reproduce all of the sounds I typically listen to pretty faithfully in my own listening tests, and on paper of course they do too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:25:12
So, actually a speaker question, but I figured you guys could answer this too. I want to add a sub to my set up (all I have right now are two Infinity RS-125s) and am looking at getting something cheap. I found this subwoofer (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4903888569.html) and this receiver (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4900872208.html). I just wanted to make sure there wouldn't be any problems with this setup, or if there's anything better I could do? Sorry, I really no next to nothing about speakers and the like, so sorry if it seems like a silly question :rolleyes:.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:29:44
So, really a speaker question, but I figured it was fine to post this here to. I want to upgrade my speaker setup (right now all I have are two Infinity RS-125s and a junk amp). I found this sub (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4903888569.html) and this receiver (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4900872208.html). I just wanted to make sure there wouldn't be any problems or anything I should know, or anything better I could look into (I'm not super picky or anything though)? I really know next to nothing about speakers and the like so sorry if this is a silly question :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:34:48
So, really a speaker question, but I figured it was fine to post this here to. I want to upgrade my speaker setup (right now all I have are two Infinity RS-125s and a junk amp). I found this sub (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4903888569.html) and this receiver (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4900872208.html). I just wanted to make sure there wouldn't be any problems or anything I should know, or anything better I could look into (I'm not super picky or anything though)? I really know next to nothing about speakers and the like so sorry if this is a silly question :rolleyes:

Looks like that receiver is going to want a powered sub. You'd need an amp for that subwoofer.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:38:20
So, really a speaker question, but I figured it was fine to post this here to. I want to upgrade my speaker setup (right now all I have are two Infinity RS-125s and a junk amp). I found this sub (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4903888569.html) and this receiver (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4900872208.html). I just wanted to make sure there wouldn't be any problems or anything I should know, or anything better I could look into (I'm not super picky or anything though)? I really know next to nothing about speakers and the like so sorry if this is a silly question :rolleyes:

Looks like that receiver is going to want a powered sub. You'd need an amp for that subwoofer.
ah, so passive subwoofers need an amp, but if they're powered they can just be hooked up to a receiver?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:41:12
So, really a speaker question, but I figured it was fine to post this here to. I want to upgrade my speaker setup (right now all I have are two Infinity RS-125s and a junk amp). I found this sub (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4903888569.html) and this receiver (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4900872208.html). I just wanted to make sure there wouldn't be any problems or anything I should know, or anything better I could look into (I'm not super picky or anything though)? I really know next to nothing about speakers and the like so sorry if this is a silly question :rolleyes:

Looks like that receiver is going to want a powered sub. You'd need an amp for that subwoofer.
ah, so passive subwoofers need an amp, but if they're powered they can just be hooked up to a receiver?

If the receiver has speaker terminals it is probably powering the subwoofer, and you can hook up a passive subwoofer. If it's an RCA out like that it is likely providing a line level output, so needs an active, powered subwoofer (or a passive subwoofer with an amp.)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:46:17
So, really a speaker question, but I figured it was fine to post this here to. I want to upgrade my speaker setup (right now all I have are two Infinity RS-125s and a junk amp). I found this sub (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4903888569.html) and this receiver (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ele/4900872208.html). I just wanted to make sure there wouldn't be any problems or anything I should know, or anything better I could look into (I'm not super picky or anything though)? I really know next to nothing about speakers and the like so sorry if this is a silly question :rolleyes:

Looks like that receiver is going to want a powered sub. You'd need an amp for that subwoofer.
ah, so passive subwoofers need an amp, but if they're powered they can just be hooked up to a receiver?

If the receiver has speaker terminals it is probably powering the subwoofer, and you can hook up a passive subwoofer. If it's an RCA out like that it is likely providing a line level output, so needs an active, powered subwoofer (or a passive subwoofer with an amp.)
So something like this (http://www.ebay.com/itm/301545451287?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT) and this[/ulr] would work? (http://www.ebay.com/itm/271784606283?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: brimborion on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:54:54
I didn't see subwoofer out on that STRD315. It has A and B speakers, but they'd both be full-range; there is no crossover to send the lows to a subwoofer.

But you could use that subwoofer with the first receiver you showed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Fri, 27 February 2015, 21:58:46
I didn't see subwoofer out on that STRD315. It has A and B speakers, but they'd both be full-range; there is no crossover to send the lows to a subwoofer.

But you could use that subwoofer with the first receiver you showed.
Alright, thanks for the help!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 28 February 2015, 20:28:01
no th600 today, thanks usps you ****s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 28 February 2015, 20:29:08
no th600 today, thanks usps you ****s.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 02 March 2015, 23:56:40
Have any of you guys tried out the Takstar 2050s?  The Superlux 681s were just painful for my giant head, so I've got to try something else

(http://era-in-ear.com/files/products/Naushniki_TAKSTAR_HI_2050_225_2_63554420.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Tue, 03 March 2015, 06:06:37
just received this baby, love the sound :)

(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8628/16702705952_f4f653e24c_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/rrXJyQ)DSC00862 (https://flic.kr/p/rrXJyQ) by epzyy (https://www.flickr.com/people/125332711@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Tue, 03 March 2015, 06:20:43
Have any of you guys tried out the Takstar 2050s?  The Superlux 681s were just painful for my giant head, so I've got to try something else

Show Image
(http://era-in-ear.com/files/products/Naushniki_TAKSTAR_HI_2050_225_2_63554420.jpg)

I have the Qpad QH-85 which are basically the same but with a removable mic. I have a pretty big head (I need to fully extend the headband on like all headphones I've tested) and I find them very comfortable!
I've been using them for over a year now without any problems.
(http://www.qpad.se/uploads2/Product_pictures/QH-85-90/qh85b.png)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Tue, 03 March 2015, 09:43:42
just received this baby, love the sound :)

(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8628/16702705952_f4f653e24c_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/rrXJyQ)DSC00862 (https://flic.kr/p/rrXJyQ) by epzyy (https://www.flickr.com/people/125332711@N02/), on Flickr

Those are really really pretty.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 03 March 2015, 23:23:26
Have any of you guys tried out the Takstar 2050s?  The Superlux 681s were just painful for my giant head, so I've got to try something else

Show Image
(http://era-in-ear.com/files/products/Naushniki_TAKSTAR_HI_2050_225_2_63554420.jpg)

I have the Qpad QH-85 which are basically the same but with a removable mic. I have a pretty big head (I need to fully extend the headband on like all headphones I've tested) and I find them very comfortable!
I've been using them for over a year now without any problems.
Show Image
(http://www.qpad.se/uploads2/Product_pictures/QH-85-90/qh85b.png)


Sweet, thanks! 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Wed, 04 March 2015, 06:18:24
just received this baby, love the sound :)

(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8628/16702705952_f4f653e24c_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/rrXJyQ)DSC00862 (https://flic.kr/p/rrXJyQ) by epzyy (https://www.flickr.com/people/125332711@N02/), on Flickr

Those are really really pretty.

yeah, I agree ^_^
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Wed, 04 March 2015, 20:37:31
i'm a th600 believer ;_;
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 05 March 2015, 00:59:56
i'm a th600 believer ;_;

Give me your th600 and make me a believer. QQ.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 05 March 2015, 01:10:41
I wish I had th600s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 05 March 2015, 01:15:19
i'm a th600 believer ;_;

Give me your th600 and make me a believer. QQ.

never ;_;

(http://i.imgur.com/xgeG8X7.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 05 March 2015, 04:09:07
With any luck, I'd be joining the Fostex club......working on getting a TH900, should be my last can purchase as I'd cover bot close and open ortho and dynamic cans. I'm just short of a close dynamic.....for now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 05 March 2015, 09:50:55
With any luck, I'd be joining the Fostex club......working on getting a TH900, should be my last can purchase as I'd cover bot close and open ortho and dynamic cans. I'm just short of a close dynamic.....for now.
Jeezus padawan you already have more cans collectively than everyone else in this thread lol

As for me I'm done purchasing gear for a while. I'm very content with my set up and probably will only add some totl headphones to my collection when I have big bucks to blow lol. Audeze here I come.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Thu, 05 March 2015, 16:17:24
i'm a th600 believer ;_;

Give me your th600 and make me a believer. QQ.

never ;_;

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/xgeG8X7.jpg)


That the new stack?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 05 March 2015, 19:33:14
yessir
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 05 March 2015, 20:10:23
Jeezus padawan you already have more cans collectively than everyone else in this thread lol

As for me I'm done purchasing gear for a while. I'm very content with my set up and probably will only add some totl headphones to my collection when I have big bucks to blow lol. Audeze here I come.
I have nine mid tier to flagship cans, excluding two entry level cans in the HD555 and ATH-AD700X, with open and close orthos (including an LCD2.2 non-Fazor), with three flagship open dynamic....that's when I'd realized close dynamic isn't represented in my collection, I figured either a TH600 or TH900 would be good close dynamic cans......though I do believe they aren't fully close back. Doesn't matter as I believe the TH600/900 would still provide a degree of isolation, I presently have MrSpeakers Alpha Dog as my close back ortho, so a TH600 (at the very least) would be a great close back dynamic can.

If I get the TH900, it'd signal the end of my buying spree for audio as I have three audio setups (Schiit Lyr + iFi iDSD Nano stack, Geek Pulse Standard combo, Schiit Vali + Fostex HPA4 stack) for three rigs, and ten mid-tier to flagship cans to rotate. BTW, the Philips Fidelio X1 is one outstanding can, I find myself using it more often than not for gaming, movies and music. Great bass extension that doesn't muddies mids much, good mids and highs,certainly worth the 160USD I'd paid for mine. I've heard the X2 is more balanced, with perhaps better mids due to a reduced bass, but I kinda like the X1 as it is.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 07 March 2015, 13:35:04
Jeezus padawan you already have more cans collectively than everyone else in this thread lol

As for me I'm done purchasing gear for a while. I'm very content with my set up and probably will only add some totl headphones to my collection when I have big bucks to blow lol. Audeze here I come.
I have nine mid tier to flagship cans, excluding two entry level cans in the HD555 and ATH-AD700X, with open and close orthos (including an LCD2.2 non-Fazor), with three flagship open dynamic....that's when I'd realized close dynamic isn't represented in my collection, I figured either a TH600 or TH900 would be good close dynamic cans......though I do believe they aren't fully close back. Doesn't matter as I believe the TH600/900 would still provide a degree of isolation, I presently have MrSpeakers Alpha Dog as my close back ortho, so a TH600 (at the very least) would be a great close back dynamic can.

If I get the TH900, it'd signal the end of my buying spree for audio as I have three audio setups (Schiit Lyr + iFi iDSD Nano stack, Geek Pulse Standard combo, Schiit Vali + Fostex HPA4 stack) for three rigs, and ten mid-tier to flagship cans to rotate. BTW, the Philips Fidelio X1 is one outstanding can, I find myself using it more often than not for gaming, movies and music. Great bass extension that doesn't muddies mids much, good mids and highs,certainly worth the 160USD I'd paid for mine. I've heard the X2 is more balanced, with perhaps better mids due to a reduced bass, but I kinda like the X1 as it is.

Amazon still has some Fidelio x1s for ~$175 too..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sun, 08 March 2015, 16:43:40
yessir

Looks awesome. Is it the Magni/Modii? I could really do with a set of those...

Did you get the Modi Uber too?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 08 March 2015, 22:07:31
I'd stumbled onto a nice deal for a Grado GS1000i, snagged it for about 463USD which I think is a pretty good price for one of Grado's flagships. I'd considered jumping right in with the PS1000e but was talked out of it. Seems Grado is an aquired taste, and a good majority may not like its signature sound. Anyway, I'm anxious to get it, will be back with pics...oh yeah, still working on the TH900 deal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sun, 08 March 2015, 23:56:43
yessir

Looks awesome. Is it the Magni/Modii? I could really do with a set of those...

Did you get the Modi Uber too?

magni 2 uber, modi 2 uber

here's a better picture of it

(http://i.imgur.com/5jrBMXj.jpg)

also, apparently these guys import for europe?

http://www.schiit-europe.com/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 09 March 2015, 01:07:02
How are the ubers treating you?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 09 March 2015, 09:12:29
My latest acquisition, Grado GS1000i...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150309_214224_zpscn1qn1te.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 09 March 2015, 09:47:20
My latest acquisition, Grado GS1000i...
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150309_214224_zpscn1qn1te.jpg)

I've only seen grados in person never actually put them on. I've always wondered how is the comfort on those?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 09 March 2015, 10:08:23
I've only seen grados in person never actually put them on. I've always wondered how is the comfort on those?
I'm putting it through its pace now, it's quite comfortable actually (though the cushion pad on mine needs to be replaced), there's a very slight clamping force that doesn't bother me one bit. The sound is......very good even in the face of the other cans I have. It's quite transparent, wide soundstage (NOT up to HD800 level, but great width and height, perhaps not the depth of the HD800), good bass (haven't tried A/B'ing the HD800 and it, but it seems to have better bass I think, very good vocals. Needless to say, but I'll say it anyway, I'm pleased as punch with it.... :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 09 March 2015, 10:08:59
yessir

Looks awesome. Is it the Magni/Modii? I could really do with a set of those...

Did you get the Modi Uber too?

magni 2 uber, modi 2 uber

here's a better picture of it

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5jrBMXj.jpg)


also, apparently these guys import for europe?

http://www.schiit-europe.com/

I think you can just buy them off the normal Schiit website. Looks a lot easier, that site looks all over the place.

The US site sells them with UK power adaptors too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 09 March 2015, 10:59:52


yessir

Looks awesome. Is it the Magni/Modii? I could really do with a set of those...

Did you get the Modi Uber too?

magni 2 uber, modi 2 uber

here's a better picture of it

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5jrBMXj.jpg)


also, apparently these guys import for europe?

http://www.schiit-europe.com/

I think you can just buy them off the normal Schiit website. Looks a lot easier, that site looks all over the place.

The US site sells them with UK power adaptors too.
Yeah but shipping is probably cheaper and faster.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 09 March 2015, 18:59:07
Yeah but shipping is probably cheaper and faster.

True. I guess I will see what happens when I actually come round to getting a pair.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 10 March 2015, 00:34:52
Got my Takstar hi 2050s.. I got a brainwavz HM5 velour pads to put on it too, but trying to get them on the Takstars is making me want to kill something >_<
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 10 March 2015, 10:34:54
Finally got the ear pads swapped on the Takstar 2050s

(http://cdn.head-fi.org/5/5b/300x300px-LS-5b78883c_B009PIQUB6-515N4jnk0pL.jpeg)

From:

(http://i01.i.aliimg.com/wsphoto/v1/520754085_2/FREE-SHIPPING-TAKSTAR-HI2050-T-S-Series-Hi-Fi-Stereo-Audio-Monitor-Headphones-HI-2050-.jpg)


To:

(http://i.imgur.com/JWT1hbt.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bsclly on Wed, 11 March 2015, 12:26:44
Sennheiser 439's here. I got them for $40 and they're the best headphones I've ever used. They bleed like hell though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 11 March 2015, 12:53:17
Sennheiser 439's here. I got them for $40 and they're the best headphones I've ever used. They bleed like hell though.

They are open headphones. That's the point :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Wed, 11 March 2015, 13:08:08
What headphones would you guys recommend for a schiit modi+magni 2 stack?
I'm a total audio noob, but if it helps, I mostly listen to classic rock, and alternative music.  I'm looking to spend around $200-250 for the headphones.  I keep looking at dt990 600ohm by beyer, but I'm assuming there's probably a lot of other options out there too.  Like keyboards, the selection is almost overwhelming for someone coming into the hobby.  Thanks! :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 11 March 2015, 13:37:43
What headphones would you guys recommend for a schiit modi+magni 2 stack?
I'm a total audio noob, but if it helps, I mostly listen to classic rock, and alternative music.  I'm looking to spend around $200-250 for the headphones.  I keep looking at dt990 600ohm by beyer, but I'm assuming there's probably a lot of other options out there too.  Like keyboards, the selection is almost overwhelming for someone coming into the hobby.  Thanks! :)
In my opinion you can't go wrong with those. If you aren't in a rush, the massdrop AKG 7XX are a popular choice at that price point. Or hd600/hd650. What's your hard limit?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Wed, 11 March 2015, 13:46:43
What headphones would you guys recommend for a schiit modi+magni 2 stack?
I'm a total audio noob, but if it helps, I mostly listen to classic rock, and alternative music.  I'm looking to spend around $200-250 for the headphones.  I keep looking at dt990 600ohm by beyer, but I'm assuming there's probably a lot of other options out there too.  Like keyboards, the selection is almost overwhelming for someone coming into the hobby.  Thanks! :)
In my opinion you can't go wrong with those. If you aren't in a rush, the massdrop AKG 7XX are a popular choice at that price point. Or hd600/hd650. What's your hard limit?
I'm in no rush! I planned on ordering the stack soon, but I want to make sure I pick out a good pair of headphones since there are so many options to consider.  I think $250 is the highest I could go, but if something really nice is slightly above that, I think I could wiggle up somewhat. I'll definitely look into some Massdrop offerings, do they offer pretty good discounts off the MSRP?  I think I remember seeing the dt990's as low as $240, which Amazon has currently listed at $329.  Thanks so much for the help, radio!  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 11 March 2015, 14:34:03
What headphones would you guys recommend for a schiit modi+magni 2 stack?
I'm a total audio noob, but if it helps, I mostly listen to classic rock, and alternative music.  I'm looking to spend around $200-250 for the headphones.  I keep looking at dt990 600ohm by beyer, but I'm assuming there's probably a lot of other options out there too.  Like keyboards, the selection is almost overwhelming for someone coming into the hobby.  Thanks! :)
In my opinion you can't go wrong with those. If you aren't in a rush, the massdrop AKG 7XX are a popular choice at that price point. Or hd600/hd650. What's your hard limit?
I'm in no rush! I planned on ordering the stack soon, but I want to make sure I pick out a good pair of headphones since there are so many options to consider.  I think $250 is the highest I could go, but if something really nice is slightly above that, I think I could wiggle up somewhat. I'll definitely look into some Massdrop offerings, do they offer pretty good discounts off the MSRP?  I think I remember seeing the dt990's as low as $240, which Amazon has currently listed at $329.  Thanks so much for the help, radio!  :thumb:


I got the DT990 Pro (250ohm) off of Amazon.com last year for $140. They are great headphones! I really like them and overtime I listen to them it persuades me from upgrading. :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Wed, 11 March 2015, 14:37:20
What headphones would you guys recommend for a schiit modi+magni 2 stack?
I'm a total audio noob, but if it helps, I mostly listen to classic rock, and alternative music.  I'm looking to spend around $200-250 for the headphones.  I keep looking at dt990 600ohm by beyer, but I'm assuming there's probably a lot of other options out there too.  Like keyboards, the selection is almost overwhelming for someone coming into the hobby.  Thanks! :)
In my opinion you can't go wrong with those. If you aren't in a rush, the massdrop AKG 7XX are a popular choice at that price point. Or hd600/hd650. What's your hard limit?
I'm in no rush! I planned on ordering the stack soon, but I want to make sure I pick out a good pair of headphones since there are so many options to consider.  I think $250 is the highest I could go, but if something really nice is slightly above that, I think I could wiggle up somewhat. I'll definitely look into some Massdrop offerings, do they offer pretty good discounts off the MSRP?  I think I remember seeing the dt990's as low as $240, which Amazon has currently listed at $329.  Thanks so much for the help, radio!  :thumb:


I got the DT990 Pro (250ohm) off of Amazon.com last year for $140. They are great headphones! I really like them and overtime I listen to them it persuades me from upgrading. :P
I'm really thinking I should just go for the 250ohm and stop obsessing over the impedance level so much, I probably wouldn't be able to discern any difference between 250ohm's and 600.  Thanks byker!!  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 11 March 2015, 14:38:53
What headphones would you guys recommend for a schiit modi+magni 2 stack?
I'm a total audio noob, but if it helps, I mostly listen to classic rock, and alternative music.  I'm looking to spend around $200-250 for the headphones.  I keep looking at dt990 600ohm by beyer, but I'm assuming there's probably a lot of other options out there too.  Like keyboards, the selection is almost overwhelming for someone coming into the hobby.  Thanks! :)
In my opinion you can't go wrong with those. If you aren't in a rush, the massdrop AKG 7XX are a popular choice at that price point. Or hd600/hd650. What's your hard limit?
I'm in no rush! I planned on ordering the stack soon, but I want to make sure I pick out a good pair of headphones since there are so many options to consider.  I think $250 is the highest I could go, but if something really nice is slightly above that, I think I could wiggle up somewhat. I'll definitely look into some Massdrop offerings, do they offer pretty good discounts off the MSRP?  I think I remember seeing the dt990's as low as $240, which Amazon has currently listed at $329.  Thanks so much for the help, radio!  :thumb:


I got the DT990 Pro (250ohm) off of Amazon.com last year for $140. They are great headphones! I really like them and overtime I listen to them it persuades me from upgrading. :p
I'm really thinking I should just go for the 250ohm and stop obsessing over the impedance level so much, I probably wouldn't be able to discern any difference between 250ohm's and 600.  Thanks byker!!  ;D


I think if they were the same price I would get the 600ohm. But you can get the pros for crazy cheap considering the quality of headphone you are getting, which makes them worth it to me.  :)  Let me know if you have any questions about them..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Wed, 11 March 2015, 14:48:54
What headphones would you guys recommend for a schiit modi+magni 2 stack?
I'm a total audio noob, but if it helps, I mostly listen to classic rock, and alternative music.  I'm looking to spend around $200-250 for the headphones.  I keep looking at dt990 600ohm by beyer, but I'm assuming there's probably a lot of other options out there too.  Like keyboards, the selection is almost overwhelming for someone coming into the hobby.  Thanks! :)
In my opinion you can't go wrong with those. If you aren't in a rush, the massdrop AKG 7XX are a popular choice at that price point. Or hd600/hd650. What's your hard limit?
I'm in no rush! I planned on ordering the stack soon, but I want to make sure I pick out a good pair of headphones since there are so many options to consider.  I think $250 is the highest I could go, but if something really nice is slightly above that, I think I could wiggle up somewhat. I'll definitely look into some Massdrop offerings, do they offer pretty good discounts off the MSRP?  I think I remember seeing the dt990's as low as $240, which Amazon has currently listed at $329.  Thanks so much for the help, radio!  :thumb:


I got the DT990 Pro (250ohm) off of Amazon.com last year for $140. They are great headphones! I really like them and overtime I listen to them it persuades me from upgrading. :p
I'm really thinking I should just go for the 250ohm and stop obsessing over the impedance level so much, I probably wouldn't be able to discern any difference between 250ohm's and 600.  Thanks byker!!  ;D


I think if they were the same price I would get the 600ohm. But you can get the pros for crazy cheap considering the quality of headphone you are getting, which makes them worth it to me.  :)  Let me know if you have any questions about them..
Yeah, oddly enough Amazon is listing 250 and 600 for the same price at $379, I know I've seen both variants for much cheaper occasionally, so I guess the best thing right now would be to just wait for a better deal to come around, I'll definitely be in touch should I have any questions!  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 11 March 2015, 14:51:37
An alternate choice would Sennheiser 600s or 650s. They have both been going on sale a lot recently, suggesting there may be something new coming in the future. I usually check out /r/headphones, as they post any good sales going on.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 11 March 2015, 14:55:36
You could also try the Philips Fidelio x1

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-X1-28-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B00B3QD94O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426103608&sr=8-1&keywords=fidelio+x1

or some HiFiMan HE-400s

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B007ZG32I4/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used



Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Wed, 11 March 2015, 14:57:35
You could also try the Philips Fidelio x1

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-X1-28-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B00B3QD94O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426103608&sr=8-1&keywords=fidelio+x1

or some HiFiMan HE-400s

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B007ZG32I4/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used
Thanks cmadrid! This is harder than keyboards!  :-\ :-\
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 11 March 2015, 15:00:54
I think Binge uses HE 400s.. I haven't listened to them myself, but I hear they are pretty awesome.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 11 March 2015, 15:17:11
He-400s are so much cheaper stateside! And I thought I could recall Binge talking about HE-560s, but maybe he has both.  8)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Wed, 11 March 2015, 15:18:49
Got my Takstar hi 2050s.. I got a brainwavz HM5 velour pads to put on it too, but trying to get them on the Takstars is making me want to kill something >_<
Did you notice any difference in sound with the MH5 pads?
I've been thinking about getting some new pads for my Qpad QH-85's since I now have had them for over two years so the pads are getting thinner.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 11 March 2015, 15:19:07
Well, HE 560s would be nice too ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 11 March 2015, 15:19:49
Got my Takstar hi 2050s.. I got a brainwavz HM5 velour pads to put on it too, but trying to get them on the Takstars is making me want to kill something >_<
Did you notice any difference in sound with the MH5 pads?
I've been thinking about getting some new pads for my Qpad QH-85's since I now have had them for over two years so the pads are getting thinner.

I didn't listen to them very long before switching pads, so hard to say for sure.. incredibly more comfortable tho!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 11 March 2015, 15:27:33
He-400s are so much cheaper stateside! And I thought I could recall Binge talking about HE-560s, but maybe he has both.  8)

He's had 400s, uses 560s now and Lady Binge uses a pair of 400is.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 11 March 2015, 15:33:11
He-400s are so much cheaper stateside! And I thought I could recall Binge talking about HE-560s, but maybe he has both.  8)

He's had 400s, uses 560s now and Lady Binge uses a pair of 400is.

Nice!  I'm stuck with some $50 Takstars, but they are pretty good
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 11 March 2015, 16:02:42
You could also try the Philips Fidelio x1

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-X1-28-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B00B3QD94O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426103608&sr=8-1&keywords=fidelio+x1

or some HiFiMan HE-400s

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B007ZG32I4/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used
Thanks cmadrid! This is harder than keyboards!  :-\ :-\

HE400's are awesome if you like a lot of bass. Their comfort is very so so and a quite heavy. (~$300 new, $250 or less used) (I've listened to these)

The Fidelio X1's I haven't tried but what people say about them is that they are warm, with good bass and comfy. They would be on par or rival the HD600 (~$180 new?, not really sure I haven't looked them up in a while) The new Fidelio X2's have also been very highly reviewed. (~$250 new if I recall) (Haven't heard before)

HD600 are great neutral cans for pretty much anything, I hear they pair well the the M/M stack, it is great for critical listening. (~$250 ish new, easily $200 used) (Have heard)

HD650 (which I have) are warm, laid back, have great bass, sound awesome with tube amps, comfort at first can be an issue until they stretch out. They are very good for just enjoying music, they are considered very "musical" (~$300 new, ~$250 used)

HE400i's are probably out of your reach since on average they go for $400 used or with an open box but they are absolutely gorgeous. Great all around sound, very crisp and clear, they are also much more comfy than the original HE400. (~$400 open box or used $500 new) ( I also have these)

As for the Dt990, i would stick with the 250 ohm version seeing as it is more versatile with amps, with the 600ohm version it would be rather hard to run out of your phone, with the 250 ohm version you could still potentially run it out of a mobile device and still get some decent volume out of it. (I wouldn't pay more than like $220 new for them) (I have heard these)

Hope this helps you out flyers
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Wed, 11 March 2015, 16:06:12
You could also try the Philips Fidelio x1

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-X1-28-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B00B3QD94O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426103608&sr=8-1&keywords=fidelio+x1

or some HiFiMan HE-400s

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B007ZG32I4/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used
Thanks cmadrid! This is harder than keyboards!  :-\ :-\

HE400's are awesome if you like a lot of bass. Their comfort is very so so and a quite heavy. (~$300 new, $250 or less used)

The Fidelio X1's I haven't tried but what people say about them is that they are warm, with good bass and comfy. They would be on par or rival the HD600 (~$180 new?, not really sure I haven't looked them up in a while) The new Fidelio X2's have also been very highly reviewed. (~$250 new if I recall)

HD600 are great neutral cans for pretty much anything, I hear they pair well the the M/M stack, it is great for critical listening. (~$250 ish new, easily $200 used)

HD650 (which I have) are warm, laid back, have great bass, sound awesome with tube amps, comfort at first can be an issue until they stretch out. They are very good for just enjoying music, they are considered very "musical" (~$300 new, ~$250 used)

HE400i's are probably out of your reach since on average they go for $400 used or with an open box but they are absolutely gorgeous. Great all around sound, very crisp and clear, they are also much more comfy than the original HE400. (~$400 open box or used $500 new)

As for the Dt990, i would stick with the 250 ohm version seeing as it is more versatile with amps, with the 600ohm version it would be rather hard to run out of your phone, with the 250 ohm version you could still potentially run it out of a mobile device and still get some decent volume out of it. (I wouldn't pay more than like $220 new for them)

Hope this helps you out flyers
It's such a huge help, thanks so much Radio, and everyone else who chimed in here, it's much appreciated!!  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 11 March 2015, 16:08:12
You could also try the Philips Fidelio x1

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-X1-28-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B00B3QD94O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426103608&sr=8-1&keywords=fidelio+x1

or some HiFiMan HE-400s

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B007ZG32I4/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used
Thanks cmadrid! This is harder than keyboards!  :-\ :-\

HE400's are awesome if you like a lot of bass. Their comfort is very so so and a quite heavy. (~$300 new, $250 or less used)

The Fidelio X1's I haven't tried but what people say about them is that they are warm, with good bass and comfy. They would be on par or rival the HD600 (~$180 new?, not really sure I haven't looked them up in a while) The new Fidelio X2's have also been very highly reviewed. (~$250 new if I recall)

HD600 are great neutral cans for pretty much anything, I hear they pair well the the M/M stack, it is great for critical listening. (~$250 ish new, easily $200 used)

HD650 (which I have) are warm, laid back, have great bass, sound awesome with tube amps, comfort at first can be an issue until they stretch out. They are very good for just enjoying music, they are considered very "musical" (~$300 new, ~$250 used)

HE400i's are probably out of your reach since on average they go for $400 used or with an open box but they are absolutely gorgeous. Great all around sound, very crisp and clear, they are also much more comfy than the original HE400. (~$400 open box or used $500 new)

As for the Dt990, i would stick with the 250 ohm version seeing as it is more versatile with amps, with the 600ohm version it would be rather hard to run out of your phone, with the 250 ohm version you could still potentially run it out of a mobile device and still get some decent volume out of it. (I wouldn't pay more than like $220 new for them)

Hope this helps you out flyers
It's such a huge help, thanks so much Radio, and everyone else who chimed in here, it's much appreciated!!  ;D

If you ever need help with high end top of the line headphones, ask PadawanGeek. He has a collection that is bigger and worth more than all the rest of us combined haha. I'm sure he frequents headfi as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 11 March 2015, 18:42:39
What headphones would you guys recommend for a schiit modi+magni 2 stack?
I'm a total audio noob, but if it helps, I mostly listen to classic rock, and alternative music.  I'm looking to spend around $200-250 for the headphones.  I keep looking at dt990 600ohm by beyer, but I'm assuming there's probably a lot of other options out there too.  Like keyboards, the selection is almost overwhelming for someone coming into the hobby.  Thanks! :)

There are a lot of great headphones in that price range. It really depends on your listening preferences. If you are using the M/M stack, I would stay away from the 600ohm Beyers. Those would work better with an OTL tube amp. The 250ohm would be great with the M/M. Beyers tend to be tilted toward a brighter signature than Sennheisers. Some people like that and some don't. The Sennheiser HD600 is a bit warmer and lusher than the DT990, but not quite as warm as the HD650. As some others have mentioned, the planars like the HiFiman HE-400 are great but can be a little more expensive unless you find a really good deal on a used pair. They also require an amplifier which can deliver a bit more current. M/M would drive them ok but you would get a lot more out of them with something like the Lyr which can pump out a lot more juice into a low impedance load. Hope this helps
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Wed, 11 March 2015, 18:54:02
I think my next set will be some HD598s. I dunno, I just think they look awesome and they are a pretty reasonable price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 11 March 2015, 19:20:20
I think my next set will be some HD598s. I dunno, I just think they look awesome and they are a pretty reasonable price.
Can't go wrong with them. Most comfy pair I've ever tried, they are light, look great and sound awesome. Bass can be a bit weak but female vocals in my opinion are sublime with the 598s. They also have some of the best soundstage, very wide and open, which is great for playing games as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Wed, 11 March 2015, 19:46:50
I think my next set will be some HD598s. I dunno, I just think they look awesome and they are a pretty reasonable price.
Can't go wrong with them. Most comfy pair I've ever tried, they are light, look great and sound awesome. Bass can be a bit weak but female vocals in my opinion are sublime with the 598s. They also have some of the best soundstage, very wide and open, which is great for playing games as well.

Sounds perfect for what I want :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TLSC.wipeOut on Thu, 12 March 2015, 03:16:55
Currently using my Beyerdynamic T90 as a daily driver. Only really have a sound card tho as a source of amplification (Asus Xonar Essence STX). Pretty happy with it =D

Any suggestions for a dac/amp upgrade?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 12 March 2015, 03:34:56
Currently using my Beyerdynamic T90 as a daily driver. Only really have a sound card tho as a source of amplification (Asus Xonar Essence STX). Pretty happy with it =D

Any suggestions for a dac/amp upgrade?
If your headphones gets loud enough for you, I don't think you need change anything. The Asus Xonar STX is a pretty decent soundcard. Change only if:
1. The amp section of the card doesn't allow you to go louder than you want
2. The soundcard signature sound doesn't suit you, that is, you may find it too bright, veiled or dark....or whatever.

Getting an external dac/amp stack or combo may allow you to go louder, and if it's a tube amp/dac, then it might change the sound somewhat. But really, if you have no issue with your present soundcard + can, don't bother.....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 12 March 2015, 09:50:57
Currently using my Beyerdynamic T90 as a daily driver. Only really have a sound card tho as a source of amplification (Asus Xonar Essence STX). Pretty happy with it =D

Any suggestions for a dac/amp upgrade?
I love the T90 but recently got rid of my pair :( to my ears they didn't match well with my tube amp. But on a solid state amp they gave wonderful clarity and bass impact especially for open cans.

I'm sure you're just fine with the STX and you should only upgrade unless you really want a more "audiophile" experience. The chain of upgrade is usually headphone, source, amp, then dac. Source referring to the quality of files you use.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Thu, 12 March 2015, 17:27:09
I'm liking these Takstar 2050s.. I think they might be the ones I use until I can get some $2-300 headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 12 March 2015, 22:24:48
I'm liking these Takstar 2050s.. I think they might be the ones I use until I can get some $2-300 headphones.
Eh, how's a $2 can gonna match that Takstar 2050? ;D Just kidding, when you're in the market for a $200-$300 can, do consider the DT990 Premium or the Philips Fidelio X2 (the X1 impresses the hell outta me).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 13 March 2015, 22:18:20
I'm liking these Takstar 2050s.. I think they might be the ones I use until I can get some $2-300 headphones.
Eh, how's a $2 can gonna match that Takstar 2050? ;D Just kidding, when you're in the market for a $200-$300 can, do consider the DT990 Premium or the Philips Fidelio X2 (the X1 impresses the hell outta me).

not two dollars but, IEM superiority, easily.

http://www.amazon.com/Hello-Kitty-Bling-Earbuds-HKBL1000/dp/B0072NPFH6/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1426303072&sr=8-4
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 14 March 2015, 08:34:07
I'm liking these Takstar 2050s.. I think they might be the ones I use until I can get some $2-300 headphones.
Eh, how's a $2 can gonna match that Takstar 2050? ;D Just kidding, when you're in the market for a $200-$300 can, do consider the DT990 Premium or the Philips Fidelio X2 (the X1 impresses the hell outta me).

not two dollars but, IEM superiority, easily.

http://www.amazon.com/Hello-Kitty-Bling-Earbuds-HKBL1000/dp/B0072NPFH6/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1426303072&sr=8-4

SUCH BLING!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 14 March 2015, 08:35:37
(http://wallpapersinhq.com/images/bigest/1024x768_baby_love-1397466.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 15 March 2015, 10:22:51
Hi guys, I have a chance to buy a vintage back electret headphone (bet you guys have not heard of such a thing, I sure as heck hadn't till I saw it up for sale), it a Rotel RH 930 and I like the way it looks, and I'm sure as heck curious about the tech behind it, as well as its sound. It's not really costly as I can get it for about 108USD, though I don't know if I'm overpricing it with my bid. Sooooooo......should I get it?
(http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff364/coolwater02/L1040232.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sun, 15 March 2015, 10:30:26
The color on the ring is amazing. Did you get to test them at all? If you find them interesting go for it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 16 March 2015, 00:55:55
Well, it looks like I've won the bid, ALMOST certainly.....so, I guess I'll be back with pics and audio impression. I've heard that it's light on bass and treble, but with very smooth mids. Anyway, not an expensive item, so I'm willing to take a chance. Like my Model M, which is the one vintage keyboard in my keyboard collection, the RH-930 will be my only vintage can among my modern can collection.

Scratch that,  someone  had outbidden me, didn't wanna get involved in a bidding war since I'm looking at something meatier now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Eziak on Fri, 20 March 2015, 01:47:55
I just ordered a pair of AKG K702's from amazon. This is my first pair of serious headphones, do I need to get a DAC/amp to full utilize these headphones? Really looking forward to these when they get here next tuesday. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jerri on Fri, 20 March 2015, 06:26:30
Got a Sennheiser HD600, my second one, had one since 1998, combined with a Antlion Modmic 2 and fired up with a Essence STX.
HD600 is one of my all time favorites, and sounds closest to my Hifi as i can get :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 20 March 2015, 16:01:38
Went out for a walk with them Noble 5s today, pretty good walk. Wizard Audio IEM hype is real.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 20 March 2015, 18:58:50
Went out for a walk with them Noble 5s today, pretty good walk. Wizard Audio IEM hype is real.

U better belief it mang.  Belief it and lief it.  Noble audio is really VERY tight.  Waffle.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 21 March 2015, 17:07:21
DT770s ARE ONLY £100 ON AMAZON HOLY CRAP.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Sat, 21 March 2015, 17:14:43
DT770s ARE ONLY £100 ON AMAZON HOLY CRAP.

Still normal price in the US :(  Adorama has them on sale, but at $145 before rebate.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 21 March 2015, 17:15:27
DT770s ARE ONLY £100 ON AMAZON HOLY CRAP.

Still normal price in the US :(  Adorama has them on sale, but at $145 before rebate.

You think they are worth getting at that price?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Sat, 21 March 2015, 17:18:58
DT770s ARE ONLY £100 ON AMAZON HOLY CRAP.

Still normal price in the US :(  Adorama has them on sale, but at $145 before rebate.

You think they are worth getting at that price?

They're $120 after MIR for the 250 Ohm.  Definitely worth it.  I'm just hoping for another $100 day.  That and I don't have an amp, just my HT Omega Striker.  They're nice headphones and still worth it at $175 if you can drive them.  They're some of the cleanest sounding cans I've heard.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 21 March 2015, 17:34:24
DT770s ARE ONLY £100 ON AMAZON HOLY CRAP.

Still normal price in the US :(  Adorama has them on sale, but at $145 before rebate.

You think they are worth getting at that price?

They're $120 after MIR for the 250 Ohm.  Definitely worth it.  I'm just hoping for another $100 day.  That and I don't have an amp, just my HT Omega Striker.  They're nice headphones and still worth it at $175 if you can drive them.  They're some of the cleanest sounding cans I've heard.

Ah, I haven't got an amp :( they are the 250s as well, so I should probably hold out for a bit until I can afford a Schiit stack... :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Sat, 21 March 2015, 17:37:12
I'd grab it.  It should still be okay and better once you get an amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 21 March 2015, 17:41:26
I'd grab it.  It should still be okay and better once you get an amp.

Argh, damn you nubbs.

If they are still £100 on payday, I will get them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Sat, 21 March 2015, 23:52:27
I have the 600 ohm dt 990's the earcups are incredible. the headband hurt my head with the clamping force until I stretched them out a bit.
dt 770's should be no different. just a fare warning.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 22 March 2015, 11:20:59
Trying to negotiate for the TH900, meanwhile, I'd spotted a stock Fostex T50RP out in the wild, so to prevent other people's wallet from being mauled by this beast, I decided to snag it. Truth be told, though I already have the Alpha Dog, I couldn't resist the stock T50RP simply it was cheap......cost me about 74USD.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sun, 22 March 2015, 15:43:20
I have the 600 ohm dt 990's the earcups are incredible. the headband hurt my head with the clamping force until I stretched them out a bit.
dt 770's should be no different. just a fare warning.

Thanks :)

Both the 80 and 250 ohm models are the same price. What's the difference and which one should I get if I don't have an amp?

You know, I might just start getting a Schiit stack this month instead of another set of cans...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Senthura on Sun, 22 March 2015, 21:06:37
Don't really know where else to put this so it's going here. I bought something from Roccat known as the Syva. Earbuds with mic essentially. Love them on sound quality. Work great on my iPhone. I have a splitter but the mic just won't work on my PC. HELP? I reinstalled the audio drivers and nothing. I'm getting frustrated since I can't use Teamspeak. Maybe PM me?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: domoaligato on Sun, 22 March 2015, 21:15:24
Don't really know where else to put this so it's going here. I bought something from Roccat known as the Syva. Earbuds with mic essentially. Love them on sound quality. Work great on my iPhone. I have a splitter but the mic just won't work on my PC. HELP? I reinstalled the audio drivers and nothing. I'm getting frustrated since I can't use Teamspeak. Maybe PM me?

http://www.roccat.org/en/Support/Faq/#Faq-91

The Syva is a headset developed for mobile gaming. This is why the Syva does not have separate headphone and microphone jack plugs. To use the Syva with a desktop PC, you need a splitter which separates the headphone and microphone signals.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sun, 22 March 2015, 21:19:21
Yeah but shipping is probably cheaper and faster.

Just worked it out. For a Magni 2 Uber, it's £11 cheaper to get it from the US, including shipping.

And I can understand the site too... Bloody Dutch and their stupid language. No English option either.

£123. Maybe the month after next :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 22 March 2015, 21:33:10
I have the 600 ohm dt 990's the earcups are incredible. the headband hurt my head with the clamping force until I stretched them out a bit.
dt 770's should be no different. just a fare warning.

Thanks :)

Both the 80 and 250 ohm models are the same price. What's the difference and which one should I get if I don't have an amp?

You know, I might just start getting a Schiit stack this month instead of another set of cans...
From what I've heard, they'd sound about the same, the 600 Ohms version has a more refined bass (but I guess you've got to have the right equipment and ears to hear the difference). If you want something easier to drive (assuming they have the same sensitivity) then your best bet is the 80 Ohms version.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sun, 22 March 2015, 21:43:12
From what I've heard, they'd sound about the same, the 600 Ohms version has a more refined bass (but I guess you've got to have the right equipment and ears to hear the difference). If you want something easier to drive (assuming they have the same sensitivity) then your best bet is the 80 Ohms version.

Thanks :) I will bear that in mind when I can afford them :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Senthura on Mon, 23 March 2015, 00:10:32
Don't really know where else to put this so it's going here. I bought something from Roccat known as the Syva. Earbuds with mic essentially. Love them on sound quality. Work great on my iPhone. I have a splitter but the mic just won't work on my PC. HELP? I reinstalled the audio drivers and nothing. I'm getting frustrated since I can't use Teamspeak. Maybe PM me?

http://www.roccat.org/en/Support/Faq/#Faq-91

The Syva is a headset developed for mobile gaming. This is why the Syva does not have separate headphone and microphone jack plugs. To use the Syva with a desktop PC, you need a splitter which separates the headphone and microphone signals.

I have the splitter plugged in but no audio will go through my mic. It is detected though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 23 March 2015, 05:28:07
A guy over at HF said that for 74USD for a T50RP, he'd have grabbed three! That sorta convinced me to pony up that amount for a used T50RP, and I'd completed the deal today. Now a proud owner of a cheap ortho!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150323_175754_zpsgjn6t1zi.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150323_175712_zpslugx1z9g.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 23 March 2015, 08:58:18
A guy over at HF said that for 74USD for a T50RP, he'd have grabbed three! That sorta convinced me to pony up that amount for a used T50RP, and I'd completed the deal today. Now a proud owner of a cheap ortho!
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150323_175754_zpsgjn6t1zi.jpg)

Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150323_175712_zpslugx1z9g.jpg)


Sweet deal
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ctm on Wed, 25 March 2015, 17:16:11
I have a pair of HD558 with Fiio E11k amp and HifimeDIY DAC. Maybe my ears aren't very sensitive or HD558 is easy to drive, I can't tell a big difference between driving HD558 directly from my laptop vs using DAC + amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 25 March 2015, 23:15:33
I have a pair of HD558 with Fiio E11k amp and HifimeDIY DAC. Maybe my ears aren't very sensitive or HD558 is easy to drive, I can't tell a big difference between driving HD558 directly from my laptop vs using DAC + amp.

The HD558 is very efficient and doesn't require much power to drive. The E11k might give you a slightly more fleshed out low end but the difference will undoubtedly be subtle.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 26 March 2015, 04:53:46
Actually, the HD 558 has a 300Ω impedance peak at about 80 Hz. Apart from that, it's easy to drive indeed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ctm on Thu, 26 March 2015, 07:52:50
Actually, the HD 558 has a 300Ω impedance peak at about 80 Hz. Apart from that, it's easy to drive indeed.
Thanks. So I guess an amp will help HD 558 at low frequency a bit? BTW I just looked up a impedance graph of K701 on Head Room. It is unbelievably flat and the impedance is always low. But why is it said to be very hard to drive?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 26 March 2015, 08:20:51
You need at least two numbers: impedance and sensitivity/SPL.

I have plenty of 600Ω headphones, but some of them are ridiculously easy to drive (HD 25-13 rated at 108 dB/mW), while others aren't at all (AKG K240 Monitor at 88 dB/mW)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: saturnotaku on Wed, 01 April 2015, 09:29:00
I'm looking for a new headset. Would like something with a decent quality microphone. I won't be gaming but recording screencasts. My only real requirements are that they not be USB. Price is not really factor, though keeping in under $500 would be much appreciated.

Any suggestions you can provide will be helpful.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 01 April 2015, 09:29:57
Errone from d-squad on the fostex train now.

DongKingNewAss has mad dogs I think, modded t50rps.. although there are tons of modded t50rps out there.

I've been on the Mad Dogs hype train for about a year. So sexy.

I'm looking for a new headset. Would like something with a decent quality microphone. I won't be gaming but recording screencasts. My only real requirements are that they not be USB. Price is not really factor, though keeping in under $500 would be much appreciated.

Any suggestions you can provide will be helpful.

Get headphones you like. Disregard the microphone. Then factor in $40-100 to get a Blue Snowflake mic, Antlion mic, or another nice mic.

It would help us to know what kinda sound you're looking for.


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: saturnotaku on Wed, 01 April 2015, 09:40:17
Get headphones you like. Disregard the microphone. Then factor in $40-100 to get a Blue Snowflake mic, Antlion mic, or another nice mic.

It would help us to know what kinda sound you're looking for.

For headphones, I'm looking for something that gives decent sound quality for games and watching movies/Youtube. Music will only account for a tiny fraction of my listening experience. I'll be connecting everything to this (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16886112001&cm_re=sound_blaster_omni-_-86-112-001-_-Product) sound card/amp. Portability is not a concern - the headphones pretty much won't ever leave the sound card.

For mics, I'd like something with decent noise cancellation, as my house borders a fairly busy street, and I'd like to eliminate as much of that background racket as possible. Mac and iPhone compatibility are a must, so 3.5mm input only, and I want to keep the spend on this under $100.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moosecraft on Wed, 01 April 2015, 11:34:50
(http://i.imgur.com/4xYylzO.jpg)Been enjoying this setup for some time now. After modding the HE-560 its hard to complain  :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 01 April 2015, 15:30:52
So I'm debating replacing my fostex hype train (or at least supplementing it) with some new entry level audeze.  I can't tell for sure, but I think the treble delivery on the th900s is messing up my hearing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 01 April 2015, 17:21:49
Audeze makes THE WORST cables ever. I have bought 3, count em, 3 of their $80 LCD2 headphone cables in the past 2 years and every single one of them has fallen apart at where it meets the headphone. I am so sick of their ****ty cable quality and overcharging >:(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 01 April 2015, 18:48:34
Audeze makes THE WORST cables ever. I have bought 3, count em, 3 of their $80 LCD2 headphone cables in the past 2 years and every single one of them has fallen apart at where it meets the headphone. I am so sick of their ****ty cable quality and overcharging >:(

That's why you don't buy them from audeze.  It's 2 4pin mini xlr ends and whatever termination you plug into your source plus wire.  (you solder, right?)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 02 April 2015, 08:59:36
My proverbial ship came in today, snagged a couple of nice cans. First, a HiFiman HE500 + Audeze Q Cable with HiFiman adapters, the cable is very soft and pretty light. The can itself looks brand new, was returned from RMA recently and seller felt HiFiman had given him a new (or perhaps refurb) unit.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150402_211455_zpswy88wips.jpg)
Also snagged a Denon AH-D2000, minor sctaches on one of the metal yoke.....looks good and sound great from the brief listen just now. Gonna give these two cans extended listening before I'd even attempt to comment on their performance.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150402_211614_zpsp3e5t5qo.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Baron Von Clop on Fri, 03 April 2015, 01:26:47
Get headphones you like. Disregard the microphone. Then factor in $40-100 to get a Blue Snowflake mic, Antlion mic, or another nice mic.

It would help us to know what kinda sound you're looking for.

Seconding this, nearly every headset microphone is going to be garbage for serious audio recording. You really want to get a standalone if you are doing anything even remotely serious.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 03 April 2015, 07:27:08
HM* 26 master race
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 03 April 2015, 08:53:10
My proverbial ship came in today, snagged a couple of nice cans. First, a HiFiman HE500 + Audeze Q Cable with HiFiman adapters, the cable is very soft and pretty light. The can itself looks brand new, was returned from RMA recently and seller felt HiFiman had given him a new (or perhaps refurb) unit.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150402_211455_zpswy88wips.jpg)

Also snagged a Denon AH-D2000, minor sctaches on one of the metal yoke.....looks good and sound great from the brief listen just now. Gonna give these two cans extended listening before I'd even attempt to comment on their performance.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150402_211614_zpsp3e5t5qo.jpg)


Very nice. HE-500 is one of my all time favorite headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: saturnotaku on Fri, 03 April 2015, 10:27:08
I ended up going with the AKG K553 Pro Studio headphones and the noise-cancelling Antlion Modmic 4.0 from Massdrop.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flyersfan1 on Fri, 03 April 2015, 10:40:13
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4xYylzO.jpg)
Been enjoying this setup for some time now. After modding the HE-560 its hard to complain  :D
Nice setup! I really hate the Iron Maidens fight though! :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 03 April 2015, 13:38:05
I ended up going with the AKG K553 Pro Studio headphones and the noise-cancelling Antlion Modmic 4.0 from Massdrop.


Nice that sounds like a great set up!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: saturnotaku on Fri, 03 April 2015, 13:43:26
Nice that sounds like a great set up!

Should be a lot better than the $12 Lenovo over-head headset I'm using now. LOL
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 03 April 2015, 14:28:43
I ended up going with the AKG K553 Pro Studio headphones and the noise-cancelling Antlion Modmic 4.0 from Massdrop.

My favorite sub $200 headphone right there (or at least the k550 it's based off of is).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 04 April 2015, 09:09:39
I picked up my custom cables today....the one on top is for the K812 while the other one's for the HD700. The cables were done by a hobbyist and I must say he did a damn nice job. The Amphenol plugs look great!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150404_182026_zpsmcwkvhd9.jpg)

My K812 with the new cable, I was a tad worried before plugging it into my DAC, thank goodness it worked flawlessly.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150404_182312_zpsrjxj4imc.jpg)

My HD700 with the new cable, the metal plugs look slick, better looking than stock ones actually.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150404_182700_zpsdnb42icg.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 04 April 2015, 09:35:29
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4xYylzO.jpg)
Been enjoying this setup for some time now. After modding the HE-560 its hard to complain  :D

Now THAT is a stack. Mmmmmm.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 08 April 2015, 05:46:17
I bought a coat rack/stand to use as a headphone rack/stand, it worked out quite nicely even if I do say so myself.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150408_181400_zpsdu21roth.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 10 April 2015, 05:48:15
Bought a pair of HiFiMan Focus pad to replace the stock ones on the HE500, they're OK but not very comfortable over long periods of use.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150408_182704_zpscuz9slte.jpg)
Now, the HE500 has the same, or very similar pads (heard there's a Focus pad and a Focus pad A, really don't know mine's which), now despite the heft of the HE500, I can wear it for a couple of hours easy.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150409_105307_zpspih7wyxd.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 10 April 2015, 08:10:41
Bought a pair of HiFiMan Focus pad to replace the stock ones on the HE500, they're OK but not very comfortable over long periods of use.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150408_182704_zpscuz9slte.jpg)

Now, the HE500 has the same, or very similar pads (heard there's a Focus pad and a Focus pad A, really don't know mine's which), now despite the heft of the HE500, I can wear it for a couple of hours easy.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150409_105307_zpspih7wyxd.jpg)


The stock velours are very itchy and too firm and I don't care for the sound of the stock pleather pads. I tried the focus pads when they came out and they are an improvement in the sound but I found the ear holes to be too small for me. I'm currently using some DT990 pads on my HE500 and they are the most comfortable pads I've ever used on any headphone. Now if only it was a little bit lighter.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 10 April 2015, 21:26:35
The stock velours are very itchy and too firm and I don't care for the sound of the stock pleather pads. I tried the focus pads when they came out and they are an improvement in the sound but I found the ear holes to be too small for me. I'm currently using some DT990 pads on my HE500 and they are the most comfortable pads I've ever used on any headphone. Now if only it was a little bit lighter.
Fortunately, I have no problem with Focus pads, and with them on, my HE500 feels much more comfortable. The stock pads (both pleather and velour type pads were too shallow for me. I did notice a mild bass improvement with the Focus pad and am liking the comfort and sound thus far. I actually didn't know that the HE500 was so hefty, I have the HE400i and it's one of the most comfortable and relatively light cans I have (for an ortho), this HE500 is like the polar opposite when it comes to weight. Still, I have no trouble wearing it for an hour or two with the Focus pad simply because the Focus pads made it quite comfortable.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 11 April 2015, 00:12:24
I might go to my local audio store tomorrow to try out the new EL-8's as well as the LCD-3's. I only have my HD650 and HE400i and neither are getting enough head time. I might just try and sell both if I end up liking the Audezes.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: madhias on Fri, 17 April 2015, 14:16:57
I am not that audiophile guy, but I have these headphones (AKG K240) now for about 15 years, and I really enjoy listening to all kinds of styles when reading comics on the tablet! Also: they are made in Austria :)

(http://i.imgur.com/6ubnEkN.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 17 April 2015, 20:04:58
Ears bleeding so IEMs are a no go today :( wish I had headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 18 April 2015, 02:59:15
I am not that audiophile guy, but I have these headphones (AKG K240) now for about 15 years, and I really enjoy listening to all kinds of styles when reading comics on the tablet! Also: they are made in Austria :)

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/6ubnEkN.jpg)

That's a classic can, glad to see it still going strong, and even audiophiles appreciate this can.....not that I'm one, eh, audiophile that is, NOT that I don't appreciate it. Oh, this tangled web I weave when I post.... :-[
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: saturnotaku on Sat, 18 April 2015, 04:35:29
Got my AKGs but haven't had a chance to open them yet.

Now I'm looking to upgrade my IEMs. While I've enjoyed my Shure SE110s, I'd like something that's a little more accommodating for my small ears. The Westone W-series appears to be well regarded but I'm open to other suggestions. Looking at a max spend of $500, so custom units are out of the question (I similarly have no time to get a mold done).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LarsMarkelson on Tue, 28 April 2015, 18:58:07
If anyone is looking for a really lightweight pair of headphones that are closed, over the ear, and still sound pretty darn good... I highly recommend Sennheiser Momentums. For me, lightweight is really important as I feel added head weight negatively affects my neck/shoulders/ergonomics.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 28 April 2015, 19:43:08
$750 for LCD 2s? Yes/no?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 28 April 2015, 20:28:00
$750 for LCD 2s? Yes/no?

What version?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 28 April 2015, 21:25:38
$750 for LCD 2s? Yes/no?

What version?

Pre fazor. Comes with microsuede pads and headband as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 28 April 2015, 23:17:12
$750 for LCD 2s? Yes/no?

What version?

Pre fazor. Comes with microsuede pads and headband as well.

There are two pre-fazor versions (at least).  Wood covered connector or no?  Basically, if the connector looks like the connector that's on the headphone now, yes.  If not, eh, kinda high prices
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 29 April 2015, 00:18:40
Here is a link to the pictures. http://m.imgur.com/a/zAqS3 I am a little confused as to what you mean.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 29 April 2015, 02:35:42
Here is a link to the pictures. http://m.imgur.com/a/zAqS3 I am a little confused as to what you mean.

(http://i.imgur.com/k9PxdD2.jpg)

Earlier pre-fazor had the mini xlr end molded into the wood surround.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 29 April 2015, 09:34:41
Here is a link to the pictures. http://m.imgur.com/a/zAqS3 I am a little confused as to what you mean.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/k9PxdD2.jpg)


Earlier pre-fazor had the mini xlr end molded into the wood surround.
Ahh I see now. I found another pair and I offered $700 for it and it has the fazor so I'm crossing my fingers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 29 April 2015, 12:44:40

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/k9PxdD2.jpg)


Earlier pre-fazor had the mini xlr end molded into the wood surround.
Yep, my  LCD2.2 nF look exactly like the above pix. BTW, has anyone tried a Koss ESP 950 yet? I have a chance to get one for about 622 USD, so tempted to pull the trigger, should be an nice way to ease myself pinto the world of estat.......
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 29 April 2015, 16:05:50
Decides against buying them. I want to head to my local audio shop before I make any rash decisions.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 29 April 2015, 17:28:18
Wearing LCD-2s are like...

(https://i.imgur.com/VbGrObc.gif)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Wed, 29 April 2015, 19:25:17
Wearing LCD-2s are like...

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/VbGrObc.gif)


Like getting a herniated disk?  (https://geekhack.org/Smileys/solosmileys/laugh.gif)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 02 May 2015, 02:29:30
Just received my Denon AH-D7k and it's a thing of beauty, looks great and sounds great as well. Gonna be using it for the next few days before I'd send it off to be modded with detachable cable......same goes for its little sibling, the AH-D2k.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150502_135453_zpsvjv2gjn8.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: s0nia on Sat, 02 May 2015, 03:56:53
V-MODA M-100! Super fun cans and very sturdy.

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81kSEwsjpML._SL1500_.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 02 May 2015, 13:45:45
Screw it. I just bought a pair of shure se846.  Who needs headphones anyways.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Sat, 02 May 2015, 16:45:06
So I just picked up a pair of Rock-It R-50s, anyone know anything about or tried these?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 02 May 2015, 16:49:08
So I just picked up a pair of Rock-It R-50s, anyone know anything about or tried these?

I know dey decent, but I haven't owned them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 03 May 2015, 16:41:45

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/k9PxdD2.jpg)


Earlier pre-fazor had the mini xlr end molded into the wood surround.
Yep, my  LCD2.2 nF look exactly like the above pix. BTW, has anyone tried a Koss ESP 950 yet? I have a chance to get one for about 622 USD, so tempted to pull the trigger, should be an nice way to ease myself pinto the world of estat.......

I loved owning the ESP950.  Given your collection you may be a smidge underwhelmed, but they are worth what the seller is asking.  Current owner of my former 950s is Hoffman. He had nothing but great things to say after receiving them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 04 May 2015, 14:31:50
I heard after 3 months I'll be finally getting my th600s. Hue
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 04 May 2015, 15:24:06
I heard after 3 months I'll be finally getting my th600s. Hue

Not anymore.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Mon, 04 May 2015, 15:28:00
LOL
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 05 May 2015, 03:18:15
I loved owning the ESP950.  Given your collection you may be a smidge underwhelmed, but they are worth what the seller is asking.  Current owner of my former 950s is Hoffman. He had nothing but great things to say after receiving them.
I've put the ESP 950 purchase on hold for a while, had to buy a new phone for my GF, hers bit the dust. Anyway, the ESP 950 seller is in no rush to sell it, and I ain't exactly in a big rush to jump on it. I'm still working on landing a MarkL modded D5000 and the Shure 1540.....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aznairjordan on Wed, 06 May 2015, 00:59:11
Have the HD 598 and am currently saving up for some Audeze LCD 2s!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 08 May 2015, 01:55:43
I've fallen in love with the se846.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 08 May 2015, 02:01:05
I've fallen in love with the se846.


I love my se535s, I can only imagine how good the 846s are!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 08 May 2015, 11:59:04
I'm thinking of getting a modded Sennheiser IE 800, modded so that it comes with detachable cable connectors/plugs. Best part is, seller is willing to deal at about 300USD.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Mon, 11 May 2015, 20:23:48
So I'm looking at finally getting a decent pair of cans. Would anyone here be willing to let me try out a pair of 250 ohm DT990 pros any DT990s?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Tue, 12 May 2015, 13:33:35
3 months late to the th600 train !
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 12 May 2015, 23:34:10
lowly audio virgin here.

got a set of BNIB HD598s off kijiji.

debating if the schiit MM2U stack is worth it. I doubt it improves the SQ enough over my Xonar enough to justify the price though.

might pick up the hd650s later. but sooooo pricey in canada... like everything else that's worth having.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 13 May 2015, 00:04:33
lowly audio virgin here.

got a set of BNIB HD598s off kijiji.

debating if the schiit MM2U stack is worth it. I doubt it improves the SQ enough over my Xonar enough to justify the price though.

might pick up the hd650s later. but sooooo pricey in canada... like everything else that's worth having.
Basically correct, as long as your Xonar can get the volume up to the level where you feel it's loud enough, an MM2U stack wouldn't improve on SQ much to justify the purchase, it'd only allow you to go louder. Besides, the HD598 is quite efficient and doesn't require THAT much power to get to a loud enough  volume.

Have you tried checking out used cans? They can be a worthwhile avenue to pursue as, from my experience, mid-tier to high-end cans are usually (but not always) well taken care of by their owners. The AKG K812, Denon AH-D7000, HiFiMan HE500, HE400i and Audio Technica ATH-AD2000 (amongst others) that I'd gotten used can pass for brand new units. Just a suggestion as used cans are pretty good when it comes to value-for-money purchases.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 13 May 2015, 14:31:56
Have you tried checking out used cans? They can be a worthwhile avenue to pursue as, from my experience, mid-tier to high-end cans are usually (but not always) well taken care of by their owners. The AKG K812, Denon AH-D7000, HiFiMan HE500, HE400i and Audio Technica ATH-AD2000 (amongst others) that I'd gotten used can pass for brand new units. Just a suggestion as used cans are pretty good when it comes to value-for-money purchases.

I'd definitely be looking to try those out first before committing, but yea, I definitely don't mind getting used, well taken care of cans.

Only concern is that its not just headphone, its headphone + amp + DAC if I go up to the mid-tier power monsters.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 13 May 2015, 14:32:24
Got a new pair of lcd-xc in the mail today.  Super excite to try.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 13 May 2015, 15:05:58
Got a new pair of lcd-xc in the mail today.  Super excite to try.


Nice! My dad has a pair, so I have used them quite extensively when visiting him. I am quite a fan of the sound, but they do weigh quite a bit.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 13 May 2015, 15:12:48
Got a new pair of lcd-xc in the mail today.  Super excite to try.


Nice! My dad has a pair, so I have used them quite extensively when visiting him. I am quite a fan of the sound, but they do weigh quite a bit.

So far, the weight doesn't bug me, they aren't that much heavier than the th900 I wear normally.  They've got a bit more clamp force, but the vegan pads are crazy comfy.  But basically, I'm remembering why I love the smooth planar sound and wish I'd never strayed. from it.


We'll see after burn in if I feel different, but these are looking like a easy replacement for the th900.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jwaz on Wed, 13 May 2015, 18:38:02
Can I get a decent pair of custom IEMs for less than $500?

I really dig the rock-its but I think I'm going to have to go for customs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 13 May 2015, 19:40:21
Can I get a decent pair of custom IEMs for less than $500?

I really dig the rock-its but I think I'm going to have to go for customs.

http://pro.ultimateears.com/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 13 May 2015, 20:21:55
I think you can get the UE4, JH audio JH5 (CBA has and loves these) and the noble 3c all for around that and from what I know, they all sound good.

The cool thing about ultimate ears is they're getting big into 3d scanning and printing instead of the traditional injection molding/carving.  JH has some well noted customer service issues if you have any kind of errors or need to contact them (may be dated and not true today) and the noble's are super pretty with a good overall sound.

I'm sure there are other chinese based operations, but I don't know much about them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 13 May 2015, 20:56:27
I think you can get the UE4, JH audio JH5 (CBA has and loves these) and the noble 3c all for around that and from what I know, they all sound good.

The cool thing about ultimate ears is they're getting big into 3d scanning and printing instead of the traditional injection molding/carving.  JH has some well noted customer service issues if you have any kind of errors or need to contact them (may be dated and not true today) and the noble's are super pretty with a good overall sound.

I'm sure there are other chinese based operations, but I don't know much about them.


+1


I would go UE or Noble
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 13 May 2015, 20:58:26
I think you can get the UE4, JH audio JH5 (CBA has and loves these) and the noble 3c all for around that and from what I know, they all sound good.

The cool thing about ultimate ears is they're getting big into 3d scanning and printing instead of the traditional injection molding/carving.  JH has some well noted customer service issues if you have any kind of errors or need to contact them (may be dated and not true today) and the noble's are super pretty with a good overall sound.

I'm sure there are other chinese based operations, but I don't know much about them.


+1


I would go UE or Noble

Just open your wallet wide Jwaz and get some K10 customs from Noble.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 14 May 2015, 00:33:09
I bought a couple of Ikea toilet paper holder to mount under my table top as headphone holders, worked out quite nicely. Here's a shot of one with my HX CLoud...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150514_132019_zpswgvplqi8.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Thu, 14 May 2015, 02:30:02
Anyone here tried the JH16 pro FP and/or Noble K10 CIEMs?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 14 May 2015, 02:59:53
Anyone here tried the JH16 pro FP and/or Noble K10 CIEMs?

Binge has the k10s, the reason I went 13 over the 16 is because I didn't think I needed the extra bass driver that the 16pro has.  Sonically, the only difference between the 13 and 16 is more bass because more bass driver.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 15 May 2015, 11:44:56
I'd ordered and received a pair of MrSpeakers Alpha pads, I replaced the old Alpha pads on my Alpha Dog and used the old pads to replace the craptastic stock pads on my Fostex T50RP. I'd always been skeptical of pads influencing sound vis-a-vis crap stock ones (like those on the T50RP). Man, the T50RP with the Alpha pads sounds quite.......musical (best way I can describe it), better bass, music has 'weight' or body. I really am surprised that simply changing the pads made a pretty obvious difference in sound. I usually use the T50RP for a few minutes before I get tired of the sound, but after the change, I've been using it for hours, playing games and listening to music, seriously, my mind's blown at the difference in SQ......from a simple change in pads.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpst5riwqyg.jpg)

Edit - Anxiously awaiting the arrival of the Lawton Angled pads and the improved TH900 pads from Headphonepro.......wonder how they would change the sound from my Denons.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Fri, 15 May 2015, 11:47:45
I'd ordered and received a pair of MrSpeakers Alpha pads, I replaced the old Alpha pads on my Alpha Dog and used the old pads to replace the craptastic stock pads on my Fostex T50RP. I'd always been skeptical of pads influencing sound vis-a-vis crap stock ones (like those on the T50RP). Man, the T50RP with the Alpha pads sounds quite.......musical (best way I can describe it), better bass, music has 'weight' or body. I really am surprised that simply changing the pads made a pretty obvious difference in sound. I usually use the T50RP for a few minutes before I get tired of the sound, but after the change, I've been using it for hours, playing games and listening to music, seriously, my mind's blown at the difference in SQ......from a simple change in pads.

do cables make a big difference that justifies the price? I always get the feeling that cables are snake oil territory.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 15 May 2015, 17:45:15
I've heard from a lot of people that cables can change the sound. I imagine if it had different electrical properties it could. However I never found any that made a noticeable difference to my ears

On another note, I think someone swiped my ak120 while I was on public transit. Couldn't find it after my trip.

If you find an ad for a dirt cheap ak120 let me know! I had a brown leather case on it with a deformed bottom right corner from where I had dropped it. I also had 2x 64gb microsd cards loaded with soundtracks inside.

Obviously I still have the packaging and cable but unfortunately I never copied down the SN, or at least if I did I have no idea where I saved it.

Thanks
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Fri, 15 May 2015, 17:51:03
Can I get a decent pair of custom IEMs for less than $500?

I really dig the rock-its but I think I'm going to have to go for customs.

You can go shures with sleeves.

http://www.shure.com/americas/products/earphones-headphones/se-earphones/se535-sound-isolating-earphones with custom sleeves should work nicely.

I've heard from a lot of people that cables can change the sound. I imagine if it had different electrical properties it could. However I never found any that made a noticeable difference to my ears

On another note, I think someone swiped my ak120 while I was on public transit. Couldn't find it after my trip.

If you find an ad for a dirt cheap ak120 let me know! I had a brown leather case on it with a deformed bottom right corner from where I had dropped it. I also had 2x 64gb microsd cards loaded with soundtracks inside.

Obviously I still have the packaging and cable but unfortunately I never copied down the SN, or at least if I did I have no idea where I saved it.

Thanks

Oh man, that burns. The fact that you can make this sound so calm is pretty impressive. I would be raged right now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 15 May 2015, 18:18:43
I'd imagine it's mostly the denial and hope that it will turn up at some point. Unfortunately monitoring eBay, kijiji, Craigslist, CAM and headfi is a lot of work >,< especially since I have no idea if the person is even going to know what it is.

Maybe I accidentally dropped it and someone will end up returning it, though my info is not saved on it. My only hope ATM is that it's turned into lost and found or that it's put up for sale where I can tell the police about it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 16 May 2015, 00:35:08
do cables make a big difference that justifies the price? I always get the feeling that cables are snake oil territory.
That's what I think too, only reason why I'd get 3rd party cable is more for the length since I prefer shorter cables as I listen to music in front of my monitor with the DAC beside it. I was talking to an old friend of mine, he has a rather expensive home audiophile setup, and he tells me the most difference would come from a change in power cables to those from, say, Nordost flagship cable, would yield the best result when compared to changes in speaker cables and interconnects. I was like, "What? Really?!" He'd recently gotten a pair of Nordost speaker cables that cost more than the expected retail price of the HFM HE1000. Now he's thinking of getting the power cable as well.... :eek:

I've heard from a lot of people that cables can change the sound. I imagine if it had different electrical properties it could. However I never found any that made a noticeable difference to my ears
I've always been, still am, quite skeptical about cables making a difference in sound, unless the cable is one craptastically made one. I've heard that the Philips Fidelio X1 comes with a terrible stock cable, and that changing it to a decent 3rd party cable made a fair bit of difference. I do have the X1, but since day one of owning it, I've had a Plussound cable plugged in to it, have never bothered to try the stock one. :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Sat, 16 May 2015, 03:40:51
So I'm looking at finally getting a decent pair of cans. Would anyone here be willing to let me try out a pair of 250 ohm DT990 pros any DT990s?

If only you were closer to CA. I got a Pair of DT880 600Ohms & Beyer T90's that you could demo. I've been listening to IEMs more recently. Really love the SE846's.

Fact I love the SE846's so much, I'm probably going to sell the DT880. Maybe the T90 as well. I need a lighter amp though, the SE846's are way too sensitive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: maddingo on Sat, 16 May 2015, 16:06:10
new member here... big fan of music / stereo gear and headphones.

mostly at home i use my DT880 premiums (250ohms) other headphones I have DT770 Pro 80, ATH-M50X and modified removable cable ATH-M50's, Pioneer SE-A1000, JVC HA-RX700's and a few others I can't remember atm.

here is my desk with some speakers ** and my DT880's

(http://i1330.photobucket.com/albums/w574/atarione/desk_zps2izrdtej.jpg) (http://s1330.photobucket.com/user/atarione/media/desk_zps2izrdtej.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 16 May 2015, 16:22:04
Got a new pair of lcd-xc in the mail today.  Super excite to try.


Nice! My dad has a pair, so I have used them quite extensively when visiting him. I am quite a fan of the sound, but they do weigh quite a bit.

So far, the weight doesn't bug me, they aren't that much heavier than the th900 I wear normally.  They've got a bit more clamp force, but the vegan pads are crazy comfy.  But basically, I'm remembering why I love the smooth planar sound and wish I'd never strayed. from it.


We'll see after burn in if I feel different, but these are looking like a easy replacement for the th900.

More I use and tweak, the more I'm confident I'm listing the th900 for sale.  Look for thread sometime soonish.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 16 May 2015, 18:55:33
(https://36.media.tumblr.com/17103d8e7d5e65fecb35966ee4695e4b/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo1_540.jpg)
(https://41.media.tumblr.com/f19999a3791e41d12cbca8f8fa80afb5/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo2_540.jpg)

Budget high-end checking in hell yeah
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 16 May 2015, 21:11:00
Show Image
(https://36.media.tumblr.com/17103d8e7d5e65fecb35966ee4695e4b/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo1_540.jpg)

Show Image
(https://41.media.tumblr.com/f19999a3791e41d12cbca8f8fa80afb5/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo2_540.jpg)


Budget high-end checking in hell yeah
Excellent! 'Grats on the purchase! :thumb: I've always wanted to try a TH600 or TH900, but the deals I'd had arranged for them always fell through. :( Guess it ain't in the books for me to own one, hence my going for the Denons instead. The headband and yoke look very similar to those on the Denons.....actually, both were made by Fostex.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/20150502_140025_zpsjpamsoac.jpg)

Edit - I've just handed both the D7k and D2k to a modder who will be installing HiFiMan sockets on them, hence I can use other cables with HiFiMan plugs......can't wait to get 'em back.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sat, 16 May 2015, 21:15:49
Show Image
(https://36.media.tumblr.com/17103d8e7d5e65fecb35966ee4695e4b/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo1_540.jpg)

Show Image
(https://41.media.tumblr.com/f19999a3791e41d12cbca8f8fa80afb5/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo2_540.jpg)


Budget high-end checking in hell yeah


How are you liking them? I demoed them and quite enjoyed them, however I prefer iems for on the go and an open headphone for home use..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 16 May 2015, 22:39:41
Show Image
(https://36.media.tumblr.com/17103d8e7d5e65fecb35966ee4695e4b/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo1_540.jpg)

Show Image
(https://41.media.tumblr.com/f19999a3791e41d12cbca8f8fa80afb5/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo2_540.jpg)


Budget high-end checking in hell yeah


How are you liking them? I demoed them and quite enjoyed them, however I prefer iems for on the go and an open headphone for home use..

Yeah I'm kinda rethinking my preference of closed cans. I'm looking to be getting CIEMs soon. I think I'd go Open planars if it wasn't for A. PC being loud cuz I keep it on my desk, and B. dehumidifier being really loud.

I am enjoying them quite a bit so far, they're not as isolating as my previous experience with closed headphones but that's fine. Bass is crazy. Recessed midrange isn't as bad as people make it out to be so I can say I'm pretty happy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Sat, 16 May 2015, 22:43:28
Show Image
(https://36.media.tumblr.com/17103d8e7d5e65fecb35966ee4695e4b/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo1_540.jpg)

Show Image
(https://41.media.tumblr.com/f19999a3791e41d12cbca8f8fa80afb5/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo2_540.jpg)


Budget high-end checking in hell yeah

TFW $500-600 cans are "budget"

(http://i.imgur.com/TMdmy.gif)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 16 May 2015, 22:44:24
Show Image
(https://36.media.tumblr.com/17103d8e7d5e65fecb35966ee4695e4b/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo1_540.jpg)

Show Image
(https://41.media.tumblr.com/f19999a3791e41d12cbca8f8fa80afb5/tumblr_noglr3tKL71sp4awzo2_540.jpg)


Budget high-end checking in hell yeah

TFW $500-600 cans are "budget"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TMdmy.gif)


That's what jesus said :X
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 16 May 2015, 22:47:22
BUDGET BROS 5 LYFE

o/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Sat, 16 May 2015, 22:48:24
And here I am lusting after DT-770s or DT-990s because they're outside my budget...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 16 May 2015, 23:02:40
BUDGET BROS 5 LYFE

o/

\o
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 20 May 2015, 10:26:30
A believer that pads do make a difference in sound, ordered a pair of leather Lawton Angled Pads which came in the mail today, looks great.....and smells great too!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpsryysokde.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pizza_is_a_lie on Wed, 20 May 2015, 16:09:15
A believer that pads do make a difference in sound, ordered a pair of leather Lawton Angled Pads which came in the mail today, looks great.....and smells great too!
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpsryysokde.jpg)


They look like really fancy cup holders
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 20 May 2015, 17:54:17
A believer that pads do make a difference in sound, ordered a pair of leather Lawton Angled Pads which came in the mail today, looks great.....and smells great too!
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpsryysokde.jpg)


I wanna get some too but dang they're pricey
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 20 May 2015, 21:46:23
A believer that pads do make a difference in sound, ordered a pair of leather Lawton Angled Pads which came in the mail today, looks great.....and smells great too!
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpsryysokde.jpg)


They look like really fancy cup holders
Heh, they do, don't they?  :))

A believer that pads do make a difference in sound, ordered a pair of leather Lawton Angled Pads which came in the mail today, looks great.....and smells great too!
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpsryysokde.jpg)


I wanna get some too but dang they're pricey
Yep, didn't hit me just how expensive they were till I'd ordered a pair of MrSpeakers Alpha pads which is just a tad past half the price of the Lawton (60USD for the Alpha pad vs 110USD for the Lawton). If the Alpha pads were guaranteed to fit the Denon AH-D7000 without issue, I'd have gotten a couple of pairs of Alpha pads and save myself 50USD in the process. Seriously, Alpha pads are so damn comfortable, they made a world of difference on my T50RP both in terms of comfort and sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eternalmetal on Wed, 20 May 2015, 22:01:47
do cables make a big difference that justifies the price? I always get the feeling that cables are snake oil territory.

Well I ran over the stock cable of my AKG K702s one too many times and decided to make myself a Blue Dragon cable to see for myself.   A friend has the same cans, and side by side I can definitely tell the difference.  Like most high end audio improvements, the difference is subtle, but to me it sounds like the cable got rid of a hazy veil and cleared up the sound a bit (8 out of 10 in a blind test).  If it wasnt amped with a DAC I dont think I would have been able to notice a difference (I have a Schiit Lyr and Bifrost).  I hear the combination of headphone and cable can make a difference, so YMMV.

Speaking of earpads, mine on the AKG's are definitely worn out.  They are kind of expensive though, and personally I would rather upgrade than spend any more money on them.

I also got a pair of Etymotic ER4PTs, of which I have yet to hear a better IEM.  Though they definitely arent quite the same as my Westone W4s for more bass heavy music, but I lost them at the gym so I dont have them anymore :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 21 May 2015, 00:38:01
A believer that pads do make a difference in sound, ordered a pair of leather Lawton Angled Pads which came in the mail today, looks great.....and smells great too!
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpsryysokde.jpg)


They look like really fancy cup holders
Heh, they do, don't they?  :))

A believer that pads do make a difference in sound, ordered a pair of leather Lawton Angled Pads which came in the mail today, looks great.....and smells great too!
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpsryysokde.jpg)


I wanna get some too but dang they're pricey
Yep, didn't hit me just how expensive they were till I'd ordered a pair of MrSpeakers Alpha pads which is just a tad past half the price of the Lawton (60USD for the Alpha pad vs 110USD for the Lawton). If the Alpha pads were guaranteed to fit the Denon AH-D7000 without issue, I'd have gotten a couple of pairs of Alpha pads and save myself 50USD in the process. Seriously, Alpha pads are so damn comfortable, they made a world of difference on my T50RP both in terms of comfort and sound.

They fit, they just look a little weird for not being circular (re: the alpha pads). I'd totally buy some Lawton pads to try but I don't wanna get em and then not like them, for that price point. Reselling pads really ain't all that. For now I'm happy with my stock th600s but they don't isolate noise very well to me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 21 May 2015, 01:30:33
They fit, they just look a little weird for not being circular (re: the alpha pads). I'd totally buy some Lawton pads to try but I don't wanna get em and then not like them, for that price point. Reselling pads really ain't all that. For now I'm happy with my stock th600s but they don't isolate noise very well to me.
Then I'm afraid you'll never be satisfied with the isolation offered by the TH900 and TH600 (extends to the Denon AH-Dx000 series as well since they have similar design features). From my understanding, the cups have a gap between them and the frame housing the drivers, the gap is for venting so the drivers can attain better speed and sound more airy I believe. When I put on my MrSpeakers Alpha Dog (with its pillowy Alpha pads), most extraneous noise is cut off, with the D2000 and D7000, it's the opposite, I can still hear most of the extraneous noise.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: baldgye on Thu, 21 May 2015, 01:39:42
Alright guys, I'm in need of some decent commute headphones on a budget. I know everyone raves about Sennhiser but I'm pretty meh on the.

I've been looking at the Bose over ear phones, mostly because you can get them in teal and because they come with a carry case, any other suggestions in a similar price range and size?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 21 May 2015, 01:46:12
They fit, they just look a little weird for not being circular (re: the alpha pads). I'd totally buy some Lawton pads to try but I don't wanna get em and then not like them, for that price point. Reselling pads really ain't all that. For now I'm happy with my stock th600s but they don't isolate noise very well to me.
Then I'm afraid you'll never be satisfied with the isolation offered by the TH900 and TH600 (extends to the Denon AH-Dx000 series as well since they have similar design features). From my understanding, the cups have a gap between them and the frame housing the drivers, the gap is for venting so the drivers can attain better speed and sound more airy I believe. When I put on my MrSpeakers Alpha Dog (with its pillowy Alpha pads), most extraneous noise is cut off, with the D2000 and D7000, it's the opposite, I can still hear most of the extraneous noise.

I have accepted this and will find a way to deal with it while keeping them :( Tempted to get Oppo PM-3 but I really shouldn't. Haven't had the chance to listen to any planar phones yet though. Next step should really be CIEMs for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 21 May 2015, 03:38:00
Alright guys, I'm in need of some decent commute headphones on a budget. I know everyone raves about Sennhiser but I'm pretty meh on the.

I've been looking at the Bose over ear phones, mostly because you can get them in teal and because they come with a carry case, any other suggestions in a similar price range and size?
Which Bose are you looking at? Whenever someone mentions Bose, the QC15 and QC25 pop to mind. So  are you looking at them? The Bose have pretty decent sound, but the selling point of the QC15/25 is their Active Noise Cancellation function which is second to none. I'll be getting a PSB M4U 2 quite soon, it cannot match the Bose in terms of ANC but has better sound.....with its built-in amp. It's not cheap, but has the best sound in its class.

I have accepted this and will find a way to deal with it while keeping them :( Tempted to get Oppo PM-3 but I really shouldn't. Haven't had the chance to listen to any planar phones yet though. Next step should really be CIEMs for me.
Ugh, whenever I think of CIEM's, a chill runs down my spine, that's scary territory! :eek:  I've checked out Fitear, Unique Melody, Heir, Vision Ears and so forth, scary stuff! :eek: I'm thinking of getting an IE800 since I don't believe I'd like the sound signature of BA CIEM/IEM's. Only snag is, there're tons of fake IE800......

As for Planar mags, well, if you're able to, try the HE400i, best bang for buck planar mags at the moment. You can also consider the close back Alpha Dogs which are on sale now at 499USD. I have both these badboys and they're pretty good representations of what planar mags bring to the table. They have less hard hitting bass like the LCD2.2 non-Fazor (also got it) but they'd give you an idea of what planar mag sound is like.....more so the HE400i. Why not the HE400? You might ask this, the HE400 hits harder bass wise, but has peaky highs and a more recessed mids from what I've been told, the HE400i is more balanced in that sense. I have five planar mag cans, but I'm having tons of fun with the cheapest which is the T50RP (+ Alpha pads), ordered the mayflower mod kit and comfort band which will be coming later.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: baldgye on Thu, 21 May 2015, 04:59:04
Alright guys, I'm in need of some decent commute headphones on a budget. I know everyone raves about Sennhiser but I'm pretty meh on the.

I've been looking at the Bose over ear phones, mostly because you can get them in teal and because they come with a carry case, any other suggestions in a similar price range and size?
Which Bose are you looking at? Whenever someone mentions Bose, the QC15 and QC25 pop to mind. So  are you looking at them? The Bose have pretty decent sound, but the selling point of the QC15/25 is their Active Noise Cancellation function which is second to none. I'll be getting a PSB M4U 2 quite soon, it cannot match the Bose in terms of ANC but has better sound.....with its built-in amp. It's not cheap, but has the best sound in its class.

I have accepted this and will find a way to deal with it while keeping them :( Tempted to get Oppo PM-3 but I really shouldn't. Haven't had the chance to listen to any planar phones yet though. Next step should really be CIEMs for me.
Ugh, whenever I think of CIEM's, a chill runs down my spine, that's scary territory! :eek:  I've checked out Fitear, Unique Melody, Heir, Vision Ears and so forth, scary stuff! :eek: I'm thinking of getting an IE800 since I don't believe I'd like the sound signature of BA CIEM/IEM's. Only snag is, there're tons of fake IE800......

As for Planar mags, well, if you're able to, try the HE400i, best bang for buck planar mags at the moment. You can also consider the close back Alpha Dogs which are on sale now at 499USD. I have both these badboys and they're pretty good representations of what planar mags bring to the table. They have less hard hitting bass like the LCD2.2 non-Fazor (also got it) but they'd give you an idea of what planar mag sound is like.....more so the HE400i. Why not the HE400? You might ask this, the HE400 hits harder bass wise, but has peaky highs and a more recessed mids from what I've been told, the HE400i is more balanced in that sense. I have five planar mag cans, but I'm having tons of fun with the cheapest which is the T50RP (+ Alpha pads), ordered the mayflower mod kit and comfort band which will be coming later.

https://www.bose.co.uk/GB/en/home-and-personal-audio/headphones-and-headsets/audio-and-mobile-headphones/soundtrue-ae-headphones/

those were the ones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 21 May 2015, 09:11:19
https://www.bose.co.uk/GB/en/home-and-personal-audio/headphones-and-headsets/audio-and-mobile-headphones/soundtrue-ae-headphones/

those were the ones
Dang, I don't know about this, but then again, portable cans aren't what I'm into. Have you auditioned it already? Bose cans aren't exactly the rage among audiophiles though, but as long as its sound suits you, you should be OK. An example of what I mean is the QC25 vs the PSB M4U 2 I 'll be getting, when it comes to Active Nosie Cancellation, the PSB cannot match the Bose. But in terms of which one sounds better, the PSB wins easily according to the various reviews I've read. Bose cans aren't known for their SQ.....have you thought about IEM's? I have a pair of Shure SE215, an Ety ER6 (from years back), a pair of JVC HA-FXZ100, they offer decent enough passive isolation and sound pretty good to boot.

Anyway, when it comes to portable, before the PSB M4U, I ain't too picky about the sound, hence my buying a pair of Klipsch Mode M40 ANC portable can, a pair of Klipsch Image One BT (look ma, no cables!), the V-Moda Crossfade M100.....very bassy stuff. With the PSB M4U 2, I'm hoping to up my portable game somewhat.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: baldgye on Thu, 21 May 2015, 09:18:03
https://www.bose.co.uk/GB/en/home-and-personal-audio/headphones-and-headsets/audio-and-mobile-headphones/soundtrue-ae-headphones/

those were the ones
Dang, I don't know about this, but then again, portable cans aren't what I'm into. Have you auditioned it already? Bose cans aren't exactly the rage among audiophiles though, but as long as its sound suits you, you should be OK. An example of what I mean is the QC25 vs the PSB M4U 2 I 'll be getting, when it comes to Active Nosie Cancellation, the PSB cannot match the Bose. But in terms of which one sounds better, the PSB wins easily according to the various reviews I've read. Bose cans aren't known for their SQ.....have you thought about IEM's? I have a pair of Shure SE215, an Ety ER6 (from years back), a pair of JVC HA-FXZ100, they offer decent enough passive isolation and sound pretty good to boot.

Anyway, when it comes to portable, before the PSB M4U, I ain't too picky about the sound, hence my buying a pair of Klipsch Mode M40 ANC portable can, a pair of Klipsch Image One BT (look ma, no cables!), the V-Moda Crossfade M100.....very bassy stuff. With the PSB M4U 2, I'm hoping to up my portable game somewhat.

All those bar the Bluetooth ones are over £100 over budget haha and I'm a bit wary of bt headphones because of compatibility etc...

I like bose, they sound good and have solid build quality, but I'm no expert and have little experience or access to try diffrent cans etc I know bose don't get a good rap in the audiophile world, but then, that seems to be a community based around something I can't really hear :P
I listen to alot of techno and electronic music but also a decent amount of prog and 80s synth stuff so I'm just after a good set with decent range and some nice base when I wana get into ma deep techo ****.

I already have some desktop headphones that i'm happy with, but the cable is farrrr too long for portable use so I'm just after suggestions around the £150 mark. Noise cancellation is a feature i cant afford atm but yeah the bose ones are pretty amazing, the test room they have in there shops where u sit in a simulated plane cabin is pretty impressive.


http://www.amazon.co.uk/AKG-K550-High-Performance-Closed-Back-Headphones/dp/B005CNR7B0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1432217890&sr=8-4&keywords=psb+headphones

though these are well within range and have gotten decent reviews
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 22 May 2015, 06:30:14
The K550 is pretty good, but from my conversation with a guy who'd gotten it, it requires a long burn-in period. By most account, the K550 is an excellent close back can, so if you like its signature sound and its look, go for it. Personally wanted to try one, but none has gone on sale in the Garage section I haunt. Anyway, my PSB M4U 2 is in hand, with amp mode on, it sounds so clean and relatively neutral even on my Zenfone 2.....this certainly upped the portable listening playing field for me.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpsin7xuxeg.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sat, 23 May 2015, 00:35:51
https://www.bose.co.uk/GB/en/home-and-personal-audio/headphones-and-headsets/audio-and-mobile-headphones/soundtrue-ae-headphones/

those were the ones
Dang, I don't know about this, but then again, portable cans aren't what I'm into. Have you auditioned it already? Bose cans aren't exactly the rage among audiophiles though, but as long as its sound suits you, you should be OK. An example of what I mean is the QC25 vs the PSB M4U 2 I 'll be getting, when it comes to Active Nosie Cancellation, the PSB cannot match the Bose. But in terms of which one sounds better, the PSB wins easily according to the various reviews I've read. Bose cans aren't known for their SQ.....have you thought about IEM's? I have a pair of Shure SE215, an Ety ER6 (from years back), a pair of JVC HA-FXZ100, they offer decent enough passive isolation and sound pretty good to boot.

Anyway, when it comes to portable, before the PSB M4U, I ain't too picky about the sound, hence my buying a pair of Klipsch Mode M40 ANC portable can, a pair of Klipsch Image One BT (look ma, no cables!), the V-Moda Crossfade M100.....very bassy stuff. With the PSB M4U 2, I'm hoping to up my portable game somewhat.

All those bar the Bluetooth ones are over £100 over budget haha and I'm a bit wary of bt headphones because of compatibility etc...

I like bose, they sound good and have solid build quality, but I'm no expert and have little experience or access to try diffrent cans etc I know bose don't get a good rap in the audiophile world, but then, that seems to be a community based around something I can't really hear :P
I listen to alot of techno and electronic music but also a decent amount of prog and 80s synth stuff so I'm just after a good set with decent range and some nice base when I wana get into ma deep techo ****.

I already have some desktop headphones that i'm happy with, but the cable is farrrr too long for portable use so I'm just after suggestions around the £150 mark. Noise cancellation is a feature i cant afford atm but yeah the bose ones are pretty amazing, the test room they have in there shops where u sit in a simulated plane cabin is pretty impressive.


http://www.amazon.co.uk/AKG-K550-High-Performance-Closed-Back-Headphones/dp/B005CNR7B0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1432217890&sr=8-4&keywords=psb+headphones

though these are well within range and have gotten decent reviews

The K550 has a very long, thick, non-detachable cable. They are also a bit finicky as far as placement on the head to get a good seal. Probably not the best choice for portable cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: henz on Sat, 23 May 2015, 05:26:50
(http://images.gear4music.se/media/106293/1200/preview.jpg)

when in front of the computer i only use headphones for gaming.I have Steelseries Siberia something headset.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: baldgye on Sat, 23 May 2015, 05:49:14
https://www.bose.co.uk/GB/en/home-and-personal-audio/headphones-and-headsets/audio-and-mobile-headphones/soundtrue-ae-headphones/

those were the ones
Dang, I don't know about this, but then again, portable cans aren't what I'm into. Have you auditioned it already? Bose cans aren't exactly the rage among audiophiles though, but as long as its sound suits you, you should be OK. An example of what I mean is the QC25 vs the PSB M4U 2 I 'll be getting, when it comes to Active Nosie Cancellation, the PSB cannot match the Bose. But in terms of which one sounds better, the PSB wins easily according to the various reviews I've read. Bose cans aren't known for their SQ.....have you thought about IEM's? I have a pair of Shure SE215, an Ety ER6 (from years back), a pair of JVC HA-FXZ100, they offer decent enough passive isolation and sound pretty good to boot.

Anyway, when it comes to portable, before the PSB M4U, I ain't too picky about the sound, hence my buying a pair of Klipsch Mode M40 ANC portable can, a pair of Klipsch Image One BT (look ma, no cables!), the V-Moda Crossfade M100.....very bassy stuff. With the PSB M4U 2, I'm hoping to up my portable game somewhat.

All those bar the Bluetooth ones are over �100 over budget haha and I'm a bit wary of bt headphones because of compatibility etc...

I like bose, they sound good and have solid build quality, but I'm no expert and have little experience or access to try diffrent cans etc I know bose don't get a good rap in the audiophile world, but then, that seems to be a community based around something I can't really hear :P
I listen to alot of techno and electronic music but also a decent amount of prog and 80s synth stuff so I'm just after a good set with decent range and some nice base when I wana get into ma deep techo ****.

I already have some desktop headphones that i'm happy with, but the cable is farrrr too long for portable use so I'm just after suggestions around the �150 mark. Noise cancellation is a feature i cant afford atm but yeah the bose ones are pretty amazing, the test room they have in there shops where u sit in a simulated plane cabin is pretty impressive.


http://www.amazon.co.uk/AKG-K550-High-Performance-Closed-Back-Headphones/dp/B005CNR7B0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1432217890&sr=8-4&keywords=psb+headphones

though these are well within range and have gotten decent reviews

The K550 has a very long, thick, non-detachable cable. They are also a bit finicky as far as placement on the head to get a good seal. Probably not the best choice for portable cans.

Ok thanks, actually some of the best help I've had. I think I'll go with those Bose ones then, long as they sound good.!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: baldgye on Sat, 23 May 2015, 11:25:37
Tried those Bose ones on in a Bose shop, really wasn't impressed at all. Was expecting the sound to be a lot clearer and sharper. I'll keep my iPhone earphones for now :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sat, 23 May 2015, 11:32:25
Anyone tried the xiaomi pistons? Headfi seems to hold them in high regard. Not sure if they'd be much improvement over my S3 headphones, which are surprisingly good themselves (if a fair bit V-shaped).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 23 May 2015, 19:02:14
Tried those Bose ones on in a Bose shop, really wasn't impressed at all. Was expecting the sound to be a lot clearer and sharper. I'll keep my iPhone earphones for now :/

http://www.amazon.com/Takstar-Monitor-Headphone-Gaming-Computer/dp/B009PIQUB6

Make for great 'budget' headphones.. might want to buy replacement pads to make them more comfy tho.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 23 May 2015, 21:13:44
Tried those Bose ones on in a Bose shop, really wasn't impressed at all. Was expecting the sound to be a lot clearer and sharper. I'll keep my iPhone earphones for now :/
That was shy I'd mentioned the Bose QC15/25 in relation to the one you were looking at. They're not exactly known for SQ, more for comfort and style......and the brand name. Do you mind on ear? I have a pair of Klipsch Image One BT, it's not at all audiophile but has a fun bass and treble presence that most would like. Is there any way for you to audition it? I bought mine without auditioning it per se, rather, my niece has the wired Image One and I liked it. When I'm out and about, I usually want something fun to listen to. BTW, I have no issue with comfort wearing the Image One BT, nice fit on my ears and no discomfort or pain though I wear glasses.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Delectronics&field-keywords=image%20one%20bluetooth

The wired version is much cheaper....
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Klipsch-Image-ONE-Ear-Headphone-Black/dp/B0096QYNRA
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: baldgye on Mon, 25 May 2015, 10:05:48
Dang £25 they look alright, tbh I don't mind on ear, only I've always found that after an hour or so of use my ears just go bright red and are painful and sweaty lol, not so nice. Having over ear phones isn't a problem though... And for £25 might be worth a punt!

Tbh I'm not looking at 'budget' headphones, just solid portable ones around the $200-250 mark (£150) that will last and sound good
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Mon, 25 May 2015, 13:38:34
(https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7740/18087572062_33f65a2fd8_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/tykx1J)

diggin these rn. vali needs to get here sooner tho, my modi is lonely
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 25 May 2015, 15:44:14
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/jaybird-bluebuds-x-sport-bluetooth-headphones

There are some good portable headphones


https://www.massdrop.com/buy/akg-k7xx-massdrop-first-edition-headphones

are back up for sale again too
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 25 May 2015, 16:28:23
AK240 should be here tonight

Fingers crossed (that it's working and that I don't lose it...)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 25 May 2015, 16:29:39
AK240 should be here tonight

Fingers crossed (that it's working and that I don't lose it...)
Jesus man what kind of a hole did that leave in your wallet?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 25 May 2015, 18:13:04
Still debating getting a walkman a15 for portable use (has one touch bt for my bt headphones and clean power for my IEMs, plus small).

Also, debating getting either an emotiva mini-a 100x or a mjolnir for my lcd-xc.  I want more power than my m2u is putting out right now.

Also, if someone wants some good universal IEMs, I have a pair of noble 5 for sale.  Someday I'll get the picture set up where I can list them here.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 25 May 2015, 18:23:58
AK240 should be here tonight

Fingers crossed (that it's working and that I don't lose it...)
Jesus man what kind of a hole did that leave in your wallet?

The black hole kind.

It's worse since I lost my ak120. I was desperate to get a replacement in =[ to be fair the ak120ii would have been a better choice but nobody is selling theirs.

I got the ak240 for not too much more than a used 120ii at least
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 25 May 2015, 18:25:28
Still debating getting a walkman a15 for portable use (has one touch bt for my bt headphones and clean power for my IEMs, plus small).

Also, debating getting either an emotiva mini-a 100x or a mjolnir for my lcd-xc.  I want more power than my m2u is putting out right now.

Also, if someone wants some good universal IEMs, I have a pair of noble 5 for sale.  Someday I'll get the picture set up where I can list them here.

Get a custom amp  :p

(Only $3000 from my friend)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rm-rf on Mon, 25 May 2015, 18:28:06
personally, i wouldn't get the walkman.
i've heard a few bad things about it.

firstly...there are a lot of better devices out there
secondly. supporting sony .. ewww..
i feel like as the years go by everything i get from them is made with less and less quality.
last pair of headphones i got from them, NIB... the screws were stripped on the headband resizing thing.
and i have a personal pet peeve about wood screws into plastic.
that's just poor craftsmanship.

have you checked out the cowon line of goods?
they have some great products to offer.


how are the noble 5's?
i think the past month i've been researching a lot of different IEM's
still undecided, i wish there was  a place i could try them without worrying about other people ear goo.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 25 May 2015, 18:40:39
personally, i wouldn't get the walkman.
i've heard a few bad things about it.

firstly...there are a lot of better devices out there
secondly. supporting sony .. ewww..
i feel like as the years go by everything i get from them is made with less and less quality.
last pair of headphones i got from them, NIB... the screws were stripped on the headband resizing thing.
and i have a personal pet peeve about wood screws into plastic.
that's just poor craftsmanship.

have you checked out the cowon line of goods?
they have some great products to offer.


how are the noble 5's?
i think the past month i've been researching a lot of different IEM's
still undecided, i wish there was  a place i could try them without worrying about other people ear goo.

I like them alright, they have a nice V sound with good detail.  I just have better IEMs and don't do a ton of headphone swapping.

I'm pretty solid in the sony camp in general, honestly.  I've looked at most all of the less than kilobuck DAPs and the walkman has what I want.  Even without the bt feature, a lot of the non-apple devices are let down big time by UI.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suicidal_orange on Mon, 25 May 2015, 18:43:26
Strange you should mention Sony, I just came across my PFR-V1 which I failed to open even after removing all the screws :))

I usually save them for cool-eared summer listening as they lack bass with most of my music (crap modern mastering :() but they're sounding great out of my Tera Player now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 25 May 2015, 18:49:36
personally, i wouldn't get the walkman.
i've heard a few bad things about it.

firstly...there are a lot of better devices out there
secondly. supporting sony .. ewww..
i feel like as the years go by everything i get from them is made with less and less quality.
last pair of headphones i got from them, NIB... the screws were stripped on the headband resizing thing.
and i have a personal pet peeve about wood screws into plastic.
that's just poor craftsmanship.

have you checked out the cowon line of goods?
they have some great products to offer.


how are the noble 5's?
i think the past month i've been researching a lot of different IEM's
still undecided, i wish there was  a place i could try them without worrying about other people ear goo.

I like them alright, they have a nice V sound with good detail.  I just have better IEMs and don't do a ton of headphone swapping.

I'm pretty solid in the sony camp in general, honestly.  I've looked at most all of the less than kilobuck DAPs and the walkman has what I want.  Even without the bt feature, a lot of the non-apple devices are let down big time by UI.

Haha, although it's preference, I'd rather deal with a clunky but functional UI provided the quality is there.

Personally I think Sony can make amazing products, but it's not every product that comes out that way.
The Sony Z7 was more than disappointing and the ZX2 is not much better considering the price tag.
But the Sony SA5000 or the legendary 010/r10, damn.
Outside of audio Sony does a good job with TVs and especially cameras. You just have to make sure you're buying products they put work into.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 25 May 2015, 19:08:39
personally, i wouldn't get the walkman.
i've heard a few bad things about it.

firstly...there are a lot of better devices out there
secondly. supporting sony .. ewww..
i feel like as the years go by everything i get from them is made with less and less quality.
last pair of headphones i got from them, NIB... the screws were stripped on the headband resizing thing.
and i have a personal pet peeve about wood screws into plastic.
that's just poor craftsmanship.

have you checked out the cowon line of goods?
they have some great products to offer.


how are the noble 5's?
i think the past month i've been researching a lot of different IEM's
still undecided, i wish there was  a place i could try them without worrying about other people ear goo.

I like them alright, they have a nice V sound with good detail.  I just have better IEMs and don't do a ton of headphone swapping.

I'm pretty solid in the sony camp in general, honestly.  I've looked at most all of the less than kilobuck DAPs and the walkman has what I want.  Even without the bt feature, a lot of the non-apple devices are let down big time by UI.

Haha, although it's preference, I'd rather deal with a clunky but functional UI provided the quality is there.

Personally I think Sony can make amazing products, but it's not every product that comes out that way.
The Sony Z7 was more than disappointing and the ZX2 is not much better considering the price tag.
But the Sony SA5000 or the legendary 010/r10, damn.
Outside of audio Sony does a good job with TVs and especially cameras. You just have to make sure you're buying products they put work into.

Yeah, the z7 was a bit of a disappointment, but I'm happy with the xb950bt.  They're comfy, built well, decent price (for bt headphones) and an acceptable sound.  Not what I would normally want, but I have them for when I'm working and don't want wires in the way.

Loved my older sony LCD tv (my sister is still using it nearly 10 years later now) and I 100% believe that the alpha mirrorless cameras are the future and wouldn't trade my a6000 for much of anything. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Mon, 25 May 2015, 23:00:56
So because of some broken hardware, looks like I'm gonna have to return the 990s. Are the 880s at least somewhat less V-shaped?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 25 May 2015, 23:22:55
So because of some broken hardware, looks like I'm gonna have to return the 990s. Are the 880s at least somewhat less V-shaped?

From what I've heard the 880 should be the most neutral of the bunch
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Mon, 25 May 2015, 23:28:50
So because of some broken hardware, looks like I'm gonna have to return the 990s. Are the 880s at least somewhat less V-shaped?

From what I've heard the 880 should be the most neutral of the bunch
perfect, thanks!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 26 May 2015, 02:12:08
The case for the AK240 is butt ugly. This dull grayish color that just makes the whole thing look bukgy.

The unit itself doesn't look terrible. If the screen wasn't raised up it would actually be very sleek and modern. But with the raised screen it's just... Odd
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: baldgye on Tue, 26 May 2015, 03:06:47
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/jaybird-bluebuds-x-sport-bluetooth-headphones

There are some good portable headphones


https://www.massdrop.com/buy/akg-k7xx-massdrop-first-edition-headphones

are back up for sale again too

cheers, but Bluetooth headphones arn't something I'm after and those other ones have a 3m lead lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 26 May 2015, 12:01:13
I've quite recently confirmed two more purchases, one was to add one more woody to accompany my Denon AH-D7000, and it's an Audio Technica ATH-W5000. The PSB M4U 2 has me reconsidering my arsenal of excellent quality portable cans and IEM's (or lack thereof), the M4U 2 has me wanting an IEM to compliment it, hence my confirmation of a deal for the IE800. I'll get the W5000 next week, and the IE800 is just over two weeks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 26 May 2015, 12:51:12
I've quite recently confirmed two more purchases, one was to add one more woody to accompany my Denon AH-D7000, and it's an Audio Technica ATH-W5000. The PSB M4U 2 has me reconsidering my arsenal of excellent quality portable cans and IEM's (or lack thereof), the M4U 2 has me wanting an IEM to compliment it, hence my confirmation of a deal for the IE800. I'll get the W5000 next week, and the IE800 is just over two weeks.

Interesting choices xD

I found the ie800 really good but quite thin.

I hated the denons though =[ but then I tried the TH900 and my life changed.

Post your thoughts on the W5000 vs D7000! I found the W5000 v shaped, unlike other ATs
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Tue, 26 May 2015, 13:11:37
Plz Mr Brocaps sell me your 598s  :'( I wants them so bad
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 27 May 2015, 20:54:10
The mod on my Denons is done, though I've yet to collect the cans from the mod guy, he'd sent me some pics, I must say I like what I'm seeing....oh yeah, I had the original D7000 cable terminated with HiFiMan plugs because the cable is pretty good.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0000_zps7fzzzaoy.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0001_zpshmwihgug.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0002_zpsep6stl4z.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0004_zpsrj0tur8b.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 27 May 2015, 22:12:53
The mod on my Denons is done, though I've yet to collect the cans from the mod guy, he'd sent me some pics, I must say I like what I'm seeing....oh yeah, I had the original D7000 cable terminated with HiFiMan plugs because the cable is pretty good.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0000_zps7fzzzaoy.jpg)

Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0001_zpshmwihgug.jpg)

Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0002_zpsep6stl4z.jpg)

Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0004_zpsrj0tur8b.jpg)


Looks good son. Looks like same stock cable fostex still using.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 27 May 2015, 22:49:49
The mod on my Denons is done, though I've yet to collect the cans from the mod guy, he'd sent me some pics, I must say I like what I'm seeing....oh yeah, I had the original D7000 cable terminated with HiFiMan plugs because the cable is pretty good.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0000_zps7fzzzaoy.jpg)

Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0001_zpshmwihgug.jpg)

Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0002_zpsep6stl4z.jpg)

Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/IMG-20150528-WA0004_zpsrj0tur8b.jpg)



Looks great! :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 27 May 2015, 23:44:31

Looks great! :)



Looks good son. Looks like same stock cable fostex still using.

Thanks, the guy who did it has done an excellent job judging from the pics, I'll be getting him to mod my incoming ATH-W5000 as well. I will be looking at some nice cables to be fitted with HFM plugs in the future. Right now, since I have a pair of Audeze to HFM adapters, I would be able to use my Effects Audio and French Silk Q Cables (both for Audeze) on these cans as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 30 May 2015, 07:20:34
Ordered a couple of stuff from Mayflower Electronics, a Comfort Band and Mod Kit for my T50RP.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpstsolgpyc.jpg)
Followed the guide over at HeadFi to mod my T50RP, now the bass is tighter, and treble seems a tad less bright. With the Comfort Band in place, mod and MrSpeakers Alpha Pads, this T50RP may look a lot like a stock one, but sounds a fair bit better. I can wear it for hours on end, listening to music and playing games.....the hype about the T50RP is REAL! :thumb:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpswrbbmtrv.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 30 May 2015, 10:27:01
Speaking of T50rp

Has anybody else  been following the Aequus kickstarter drama? xD

http://www.reddit.com/r/headphones/comments/37h9yr/beware_aequus_headphones_kickstarter_is/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LechnerDE on Sun, 31 May 2015, 01:14:04

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/akg-k7xx-massdrop-first-edition-headphones



Would you guys recommend these or could I get something better for that kind of money?

(total headphone noob here :p)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 31 May 2015, 02:02:16

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/akg-k7xx-massdrop-first-edition-headphones



Would you guys recommend these or could I get something better for that kind of money?

(total headphone noob here :p)
Don't think you can get any better for 200USD, so go for it!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sun, 31 May 2015, 03:02:26
I've heard they are great at that price point. I agree with padawangeek. Obviously there are other options but to keep things simple, it's a good choice.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LechnerDE on Sun, 31 May 2015, 04:22:46
Thanks guys!

Now I am really thinking about spending my keyboard budget on headphones this month :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 01 June 2015, 05:17:03
Took some time off today to collect my ATH-W5000 from the seller, who's becomes my friend as I've met him a few times already to complete our deals. Anyway, other than some minor scuff marks, the can looks to be in great shape....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpszjou6ehf.jpg)

Also bought a Fiio X3K (or X3 II) simply because I'd be getting an IE800, so this would be a nice DAP for on the move music enjoyment. That it support DSD natively is a bonus.....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/5_zpsncybysfo.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 04 June 2015, 04:42:26
Got tired of the HD800 analytical sound, so I swapped it for a Grado PS1000 with the same guy who'd sold me the HD800 (I believe he has even more cans than me). The PS1k looks pretty smashing with its chromium body/enclosure... :cool:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zps1rrzwhdo.jpg)
Now, two awesome Grado cans in my collection....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpsn65ap9s6.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: azhdar on Thu, 04 June 2015, 07:38:08
I did this test : http://www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2015/06/02/411473508/how-well-can-you-hear-audio-quality
yesterday and I couldn't tell the differences.
Can you?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Thu, 04 June 2015, 08:03:33
I did this test : http://www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2015/06/02/411473508/how-well-can-you-hear-audio-quality
yesterday and I couldn't tell the differences.
Can you?

I picked 1x 128kbps mp3, 3x 320kbps mp3 and 2x uncompressed WAV

it's really hard to seperate 320kbps mp3 from FLAC/other higher quality formats, but I think 128kbps mp3's are easy to spot. I only had trouble with the coldplay track :P

I'm using fostex th-900 + schiit asgard 2 and bifrost uber usb, no EQ other than bass boost in windows
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 04 June 2015, 09:44:39
I did this test : http://www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2015/06/02/411473508/how-well-can-you-hear-audio-quality
yesterday and I couldn't tell the differences.
Can you?
Comments on this were hilarious, people with slower Internet could easily tell because the uncompressed wav took the longest to load. I tried the test with sound and got 4 of 6 correct using my headphones. But when I did the test with no sound and only perceived loading times, I got 5 of 6 correct lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: azhdar on Thu, 04 June 2015, 09:45:43
I did this test : http://www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2015/06/02/411473508/how-well-can-you-hear-audio-quality
yesterday and I couldn't tell the differences.
Can you?
Comments on this were hilarious, people with slower Internet could easily tell because the uncompressed wav took the longest to load. I tried the test with sound and got 4 of 6 correct using my headphones. But when I did the test with no sound and only perceived loading times, I got 5 of 6 correct lol.

cheaterz
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Thu, 04 June 2015, 10:07:26
I did this test : http://www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2015/06/02/411473508/how-well-can-you-hear-audio-quality
yesterday and I couldn't tell the differences.
Can you?
Yeah, that was awful. Some random notes follow…

My hearing is generally more sensitive than average. I can hear voices, steps, engines, *lights* and all that jazz before other people or completely without them noticing. And no, I'm not insane, at least not like that. However, I've just been sick for a week, so there's that.

I listened to the test on my thinkpad, with fake IE80 IEMs w/ nasty stiff "foam" tips. Don't be fooled by the word "fake" though. They're literally a steal at $35; some reviews have found them almost on par with originals, better in certain ways (a more ergonomic cable), worse in some others (awful accessories, long burn in). My dad said they were the best hps he'd ever heard. Therefore, still better than what the average Joe uses.

Finally, the test. I get Coldplay first. Ugh, pop music. I clearly prefer the 320kb/s mp3. I've heard this happens a lot to people used to the sound of that codec. I wonder why they discuss 128kb/s AAC in a pop-up in a test dedicated to MP3. The rest: I'm sorry, I don't really listen to this kind of pop music (yes, Mozart is/was pop music). There's a clear bias, because I become more familiar with the record after each listen. I randomly select WAV thrice and 128kb/s mp3 twice. What does it mean? Not much. I have the habit of overanalyzing a few albums at a time, and at least bitrate matters to me a lot then; I've had to delete a ton of mp3 rips at 192 kb/s or less, even though I still keep some 32kb/s wma bootlegs (I'm not kidding).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suby4me on Thu, 04 June 2015, 12:34:29
I did this test : http://www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2015/06/02/411473508/how-well-can-you-hear-audio-quality
yesterday and I couldn't tell the differences.
Can you?

I got 3 right.
The wrong ones were coldplay, jayz, and mozart. Those I got the 320 kbps.

I didn't use my headphones, just blasted the hell out of my speakers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 04 June 2015, 17:51:42
I tried coldplay, got 320

I tried Mozart, got 320

I've done my own tests in the past and couldn't tell the difference in most of my songs. Only a handful of songs could I tell the difference and that was only when I had my sr007. I doubt I'd hear a difference using iems or other less detailed headphones. I don't carry that much music around so it's not really an issue to be using flac. And I know that way I'll be hearing all the details whether I can perceive them or not =P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Sun, 07 June 2015, 14:01:07
Did the test myself.

Got 2/6 correct. Two songs were extremely easy to spot, but the other ones were all pop genre with massive compression and poor mastering. If there were better recordings picked, I'm sure most of us could spot the differences.

I'll have to try on the Shure's. I did this on the T90s.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Thu, 11 June 2015, 13:03:15
Has anyone used Symphonized ear buds before?  I ordered a pair to use while I'm at the gym mostly..

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T55A6TG?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=od_aui_detailpages00
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: n3ro on Fri, 12 June 2015, 01:30:07
Has anyone used Symphonized ear buds before?  I ordered a pair to use while I'm at the gym mostly..

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T55A6TG?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=od_aui_detailpages00

How do they sound? I'm also using one around that price range (thermaltake isurus).

They sound decent but they are falling apart and im thinking about picking up a Vsonic gr07 classic.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Fri, 12 June 2015, 07:15:16
Haven't gotten them yet, they should be here in a day or two
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 14 June 2015, 22:54:19
anyone have opinions/tested sennheiser momentum m2 (around/over ear)?

also, a totally useless anecdote:

i had a chance to side-by-side the sennheiser momentum m1 with the hd558 at best buy... it was the first time i truly understood what "V/U-shaped" felt like... the momentums had the emphasized treble and bass, decent mids that felt kind of pushed back, but the hd558's relative flatness really brought out the mids, but with still nice thumping bass. wish i could have had my hd598s there to side-by-side with the hd558.

really poor source files though, you could hear the distortion/crackling/hiss at higher vols.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: n3ro on Mon, 15 June 2015, 04:53:07
anyone have opinions/tested sennheiser momentum m2 (around/over ear)?

also, a totally useless anecdote:

i had a chance to side-by-side the sennheiser momentum m1 with the hd558 at best buy... it was the first time i truly understood what "V/U-shaped" felt like... the momentums had the emphasized treble and bass, decent mids that felt kind of pushed back, but the hd558's relative flatness really brought out the mids, but with still nice thumping bass. wish i could have had my hd598s there to side-by-side with the hd558.

really poor source files though, you could hear the distortion/crackling/hiss at higher vols.

Tried Ultimate Ears Triplefi10 which has a v-shape sound and was disappointed with the sound quality after all the rave reviews. Seemed like the bass was overpowering everything including the treble.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 15 June 2015, 15:37:12
The K553s are back on Massdrop ^^
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 15 June 2015, 23:01:43
The K553s are back on Massdrop ^^
If only I didn't wear glasses and had an abnormally large head...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 20 June 2015, 10:06:53
SO, I'm thinking of getting a Modi 2 Uber and a Vali to power these dt990 250ohms...

Bad idea?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 20 June 2015, 10:09:16
Debating selling my th600.

Haven't used them since I got my a5+

But I know I won't buy them again if I want them later on

Price is too rich for my blood
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Sat, 20 June 2015, 11:15:20
SO, I'm thinking of getting a Modi 2 Uber and a Vali to power these dt990 250ohms...

Bad idea?
That's exactly my setup, works great for me :thumb: The 990s sound infinitely better with the Vali
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 20 June 2015, 11:24:03
SO, I'm thinking of getting a Modi 2 Uber and a Vali to power these dt990 250ohms...

Bad idea?
That's exactly my setup, works great for me :thumb: The 990s sound infinitely better with the Vali

Mega. I know you said about that setup on Skype, I was just double checking.

I just need to get a cable for them now as the ones I bought don't come with one...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Sat, 20 June 2015, 11:28:23
SO, I'm thinking of getting a Modi 2 Uber and a Vali to power these dt990 250ohms...

Bad idea?
That's exactly my setup, works great for me :thumb: The 990s sound infinitely better with the Vali

Mega. I know you said about that setup on Skype, I was just double checking.

I just need to get a cable for them now as the ones I bought don't come with one...
Wut.

Did they just rip them out?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 20 June 2015, 11:34:13
Mega. I know you said about that setup on Skype, I was just double checking.

I just need to get a cable for them now as the ones I bought don't come with one...
Wut.

Did they just rip them out?

Cable free modded from khaangaaroo ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Sat, 20 June 2015, 11:39:33
Mega. I know you said about that setup on Skype, I was just double checking.

I just need to get a cable for them now as the ones I bought don't come with one...
Wut.

Did they just rip them out?

Cable free modded from khaangaaroo ;)
oic
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 20 June 2015, 11:40:59
oic

:)

So I'm debating if I should get a really good cable from Pexon as his silver cables are like... £70...  :-X
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sethk_ on Sat, 20 June 2015, 14:17:48

oic

:)

So I'm debating if I should get a really good cable from Pexon as his silver cables are like... £70...  :-X
Yes, aesthetics > almost everything else
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jerue on Sat, 20 June 2015, 20:40:56
I might ask reddit this question too, but what's the deal with these $50 Sony Noise Canceling headphones? (http://store.sony.com/noise-canceling-headphones-zid27-MDRZX110NC/cat-27-catid-All-Noise-Canceling-Headphones;pgid=vq1GmP9GBypSRpHag3jvgekR0000-2135cto;sid=kQqkNS7vQn2hNXtphEbDMRzlcbxUvM5ZYYM2Se4a?_t=pfm%3Dcategory)

Forgive me if this has been discussed on here, if so, please link me to such discussion.

They fit my bill (sub $100, can buy at a retailer, noise canceling). Any reason why to avoid these? I'm not much of an audiophile (unless you count being able to discern between 320 and 128kbps). Would rather not hold out as I only have the weekends off from work...

Most other NC headphones are significantly more expensive (probably due to much higher sound quality - but I'm not exactly looking for the best of the best right now - just something to drown out the noise at work).



EDIT: I went ahead and bought these today. For $50, these aren't the worst. Listening to some Avicii at 320kbps I can't really even hear myself type on my Model M. Only first impression caveat seems to be that these are pretty much unusable when NC isn't on. That, and the cable is much too short. If these hold up tomorrow in the office like I think they will, purchase justified. This is a more reasonable purchase at $40 (while $10 difference doesn't seem like much, it's 20% of the MSRP). Caveat emptor: you get what you pay for. Fits my needs - nothing more, nothing less. Initial rating: 7/10.

Will be ordering a pair on Amazon for $37.50 with prime, and return the one's I'm using to BB to get the $13 or so back. Thank goodness for their "great" return policy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dndlmx on Sun, 21 June 2015, 18:35:30
Anyone heard the DT880 600 Ohm? Nice cans?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Sun, 21 June 2015, 19:09:30
Anyone heard the DT880 600 Ohm? Nice cans?

I had the 250 ohm version and quite liked it. Worked well as a headphone for both music and gaming (good positional audio for CS:GO). Paired it with a FiiO E18.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Wed, 24 June 2015, 07:17:38
Pick the appropriate Ohm for the system you plan to use the headphones on, don't expect an audible difference in sound. The DT880 are great headphones overall.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Thu, 02 July 2015, 19:19:36
Has anyone used Symphonized ear buds before?  I ordered a pair to use while I'm at the gym mostly..

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T55A6TG?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=od_aui_detailpages00

How do they sound? I'm also using one around that price range (thermaltake isurus).

They sound decent but they are falling apart and im thinking about picking up a Vsonic gr07 classic.



I only listened to them for about an hour, but they sounded pretty good to me for the $25 price.. then I let my wife use them and she lost them somewhere >_<
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 03 July 2015, 11:15:05
I joined that MEE grab bag yolo
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Fri, 03 July 2015, 13:18:27
I would join that if we had the funds.. Need to replace the ones my wife lost, lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Fri, 03 July 2015, 13:22:27
Ugh I thought I was good with my setup and then GL1TCH3D brought me to Layton Audio in Montreal. Tried out the Nads Viso HP50 and I was smitten mmmm.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 03 July 2015, 13:28:06
Cpt you should know better. Nobody is here is ever done and we can always upgrade
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 04 July 2015, 09:30:31
My very first higher end IEM! :thumb:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpss8xuoulc.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 04 July 2015, 12:05:35
Ugh I thought I was good with my setup and then GL1TCH3D brought me to Layton Audio in Montreal. Tried out the Nads Viso HP50 and I was smitten mmmm.

Don't forget the McIntosh headphones! Even I was surprised by how good they were
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 04 July 2015, 12:06:17
My very first higher end IEM! :thumb:
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpss8xuoulc.jpg)


Dang gratz
I heard them in the past. A bit too v shaped for me but pretty good overall.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suicidal_orange on Sat, 04 July 2015, 12:58:13
oic

:)

So I'm debating if I should get a really good cable from Pexon as his silver cables are like... £70...  :-X

Compared to what some crazy people on head-fi spend on cables (http://www.whiplashaudio.com/cables/headphone-cables.html?dir=desc&order=price) (not even the most expensive option) £70 is cheap.

The alternative is another stock cable which will probably be half that price and won't look anywhere near as good and you get no say about what length it is (why is the after the Y split so long on most cables?) so I'd go for it, if you haven't already.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hwood34 on Sun, 05 July 2015, 15:45:47
oic

:)

So I'm debating if I should get a really good cable from Pexon as his silver cables are like... £70...  :-X

Compared to what some crazy people on head-fi spend on cables (http://www.whiplashaudio.com/cables/headphone-cables.html?dir=desc&order=price) (not even the most expensive option) £70 is cheap.

The alternative is another stock cable which will probably be half that price and won't look anywhere near as good and you get no say about what length it is (why is the after the Y split so long on most cables?) so I'd go for it, if you haven't already.
Wow, that is some hella nice snake oil
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cakewizard on Mon, 06 July 2015, 04:58:50
Focal Spirit Professional user here:

They sound gorgeous and they are some of the best isolating cans on the market, but my god are they uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.

Looking to pick up some HD280s next.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 06 July 2015, 10:46:50
oic

:)

So I'm debating if I should get a really good cable from Pexon as his silver cables are like... £70...  :-X

Compared to what some crazy people on head-fi spend on cables (http://www.whiplashaudio.com/cables/headphone-cables.html?dir=desc&order=price) (not even the most expensive option) £70 is cheap.

The alternative is another stock cable which will probably be half that price and won't look anywhere near as good and you get no say about what length it is (why is the after the Y split so long on most cables?) so I'd go for it, if you haven't already.

I haven't yet. I need to sell a load of stuff, then I'm moving into my first house at the end of this month so I'm gonna need money for furniture and paint and ****, and I need to get an Amp/DAC setup before I can get the full range out of them... So that's like... £300 I need to spend before I even listen to anything on them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 06 July 2015, 13:14:22
Focal Spirit Professional user here:

They sound gorgeous and they are some of the best isolating cans on the market, but my god are they uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.

Looking to pick up some HD280s next.

Ugh I thought I was good with my setup and then GL1TCH3D brought me to Layton Audio in Montreal. Tried out the Nads Viso HP50 and I was smitten mmmm.

Two of my favorite sounding headphones that aren't big enough for any length of use.  I'm about to pick up a pair of sony mdr-1a, I've read a lot of good things about them.  Also, the dampers in my CIEM started to degrade so I sold them for someone else to deal with.  I'm nice headphone-less now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 06 July 2015, 18:49:21
The th900 sold I presume? xP
Interested in hearing.g tour thoughts on the 1A
I tried the Sony headphones here in the Montreal show and found them quite good. However my friend has been raving about the new xb950 which is actually fairly cheap on the USA. (And he's an audiophile with lots of CIEMs and more).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 06 July 2015, 19:44:40
Head Fi meet up coming sf on July 18th. Perfect for my neck of the woods.  :thumb: Gonna try some Audezes!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nickheller on Mon, 06 July 2015, 19:45:37
Still using my HD 558's. I am planning a upgrade soon though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Mon, 06 July 2015, 19:46:18
Still using my HD 558's. I am planning a upgrade soon though.

What are you planning on upgrading too?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nickheller on Mon, 06 July 2015, 19:48:32
Still using my HD 558's. I am planning a upgrade soon though.

What are you planning on upgrading too?

Have not decided yet, have been looking at the HD 600, and the Beyerdynamic DT 990 though. I will also have to get an amp I think.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 06 July 2015, 19:55:29
The th900 sold I presume? xP
Interested in hearing.g tour thoughts on the 1A
I tried the Sony headphones here in the Montreal show and found them quite good. However my friend has been raving about the new xb950 which is actually fairly cheap on the USA. (And he's an audiophile with lots of CIEMs and more).

Not quite yet. You still have a shot

I have a pair of xb950 now which is what's sold me on "upgrading" to the 1a. My only issue with the xb is it does what it claims very well and too well for my tastes. Plus the ear cups are a tad too small
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 06 July 2015, 20:55:29
HD650 came in  ;D. pairs very well with my c5d, and got it as a decent deal with a headphone stand. this should tide me over for a few years until i win the lottery anyway. then it's th900, hd800, and lcd-3 holy trinity baby  :p

one day. one day.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 07 July 2015, 00:11:58
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 07 July 2015, 01:59:14
The th900 sold I presume? xP
Interested in hearing.g tour thoughts on the 1A
I tried the Sony headphones here in the Montreal show and found them quite good. However my friend has been raving about the new xb950 which is actually fairly cheap on the USA. (And he's an audiophile with lots of CIEMs and more).

Not quite yet. You still have a shot

I have a pair of xb950 now which is what's sold me on "upgrading" to the 1a. My only issue with the xb is it does what it claims very well and too well for my tastes. Plus the ear cups are a tad too small

Ah my friend has tiny ears and so do I xD

Honestly I'm really liking these AKG K551...

And according to golden ears the measurements and perceived sound is really accurate (and I also have to agree with that)

http://en.goldenears.net/17012

If you have $150 for headphones I'd highly recommend trying them
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 07 July 2015, 14:10:29
The th900 sold I presume? xP
Interested in hearing.g tour thoughts on the 1A
I tried the Sony headphones here in the Montreal show and found them quite good. However my friend has been raving about the new xb950 which is actually fairly cheap on the USA. (And he's an audiophile with lots of CIEMs and more).

Not quite yet. You still have a shot

I have a pair of xb950 now which is what's sold me on "upgrading" to the 1a. My only issue with the xb is it does what it claims very well and too well for my tastes. Plus the ear cups are a tad too small

Ah my friend has tiny ears and so do I xD

Honestly I'm really liking these AKG K551...

And according to golden ears the measurements and perceived sound is really accurate (and I also have to agree with that)

http://en.goldenears.net/17012

If you have $150 for headphones I'd highly recommend trying them

I really liked the model previous to that, the k550.  If the k845bt wasn't so neutral (I want a more fun sound), I'd be getting those instead of the sonys.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 07 July 2015, 19:04:34
The th900 sold I presume? xP
Interested in hearing.g tour thoughts on the 1A
I tried the Sony headphones here in the Montreal show and found them quite good. However my friend has been raving about the new xb950 which is actually fairly cheap on the USA. (And he's an audiophile with lots of CIEMs and more).

Not quite yet. You still have a shot

I have a pair of xb950 now which is what's sold me on "upgrading" to the 1a. My only issue with the xb is it does what it claims very well and too well for my tastes. Plus the ear cups are a tad too small

Ah my friend has tiny ears and so do I xD

Honestly I'm really liking these AKG K551...

And according to golden ears the measurements and perceived sound is really accurate (and I also have to agree with that)

http://en.goldenears.net/17012

If you have $150 for headphones I'd highly recommend trying them

I really liked the model previous to that, the k550.  If the k845bt wasn't so neutral (I want a more fun sound), I'd be getting those instead of the sonys.

IMO the K551 sound a bit more natural and have better bass presence than the K550. Haven't tried the 553 but I heard it's more similar to the 550?

The Sony headphones should definitely fill the need for fun!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cakewizard on Wed, 08 July 2015, 08:14:11
Two of my favorite sounding headphones that aren't big enough for any length of use.

Man, tell me about it. I have pretty big ears, so finding a comfortable pair of headphones is a pain. I'm a fan of the HD280s, they're not toooo squish-ear-y, and I do like the open-back AKG stuff.

Why do my hobbies cost so much?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 08 July 2015, 08:17:37
Ugh I thought I was good with my setup and then GL1TCH3D brought me to Layton Audio in Montreal. Tried out the Nads Viso HP50 and I was smitten mmmm.

Don't forget the McIntosh headphones! Even I was surprised by how good they were
La la la la what's a macintosh setup?!

/me cries because he'll never be able to afford that rig

Why do my hobbies cost so much?

The struggle is real :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 08 July 2015, 14:36:14
Ugh I thought I was good with my setup and then GL1TCH3D brought me to Layton Audio in Montreal. Tried out the Nads Viso HP50 and I was smitten mmmm.

Don't forget the McIntosh headphones! Even I was surprised by how good they were
La la la la what's a macintosh setup?!

/me cries because he'll never be able to afford that rig

Why do my hobbies cost so much?

The struggle is real :(

Just buy some beyerdynamic instead.  Pretty sure they're the same phones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 08 July 2015, 14:42:34
Ugh I thought I was good with my setup and then GL1TCH3D brought me to Layton Audio in Montreal. Tried out the Nads Viso HP50 and I was smitten mmmm.

Don't forget the McIntosh headphones! Even I was surprised by how good they were
La la la la what's a macintosh setup?!

/me cries because he'll never be able to afford that rig

Why do my hobbies cost so much?

The struggle is real :(

Just buy some beyerdynamic instead.  Pretty sure they're the same phones.

I've never enjoyed Beyerdynamic and have tried the entire line up of full sized including the T5p and T1, however, the McIntosh branded beyerdynamic phone was fantastic. More more natural sounding than Beyer is known for... along with very high detailing. Only downsides are that it's a tad bit v shaped and sounds like a closed back. However it's also worth noting the McIntosh headphones are over 2k new.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Fri, 10 July 2015, 20:46:49
Bought some Philips Fidelio x2 headphones, now to wait for them..

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Rg99OfCHL.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Fri, 10 July 2015, 20:59:02
Bought some Philips Fidelio x2 headphones, now to wait for them..

Show Image
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Rg99OfCHL.jpg)


Nice choice! I've always wanted to demo those, I only hear good things about them (very rare for headphones).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Fri, 10 July 2015, 21:13:17
Bought some Philips Fidelio x2 headphones, now to wait for them..

Show Image
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Rg99OfCHL.jpg)


Nice choice! I've always wanted to demo those, I only hear good things about them (very rare for headphones).

I had a hard time finding anything negative about them as well.. and I finally got a good pair of headphones through the WAP (wife approval process) today.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: t888 on Sat, 11 July 2015, 12:23:21
I really like the Senn HD650.  I've been using them for many years.  Super comfortable and sound great.

(http://i.imgur.com/ag01Gtx.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 11 July 2015, 13:06:25
I haven't tried on the HD650s, but the last time I did try on some Sennheiser headphones they were way too uncomfortable on my giant head. I have read a lot of good reviews of the 650s tho!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 11 July 2015, 13:09:01
Now I need to decide on a cheap-ish dac/amp to get.. Hoping some are on sale during this Amazon Prime Day event coming up.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sat, 11 July 2015, 13:26:14
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 11 July 2015, 13:44:00
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Maybe some shiny new 400s?

Thinking about getting a pair to check out myself.  I like the new connector style and the early reviews haven't chased me off yet.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: t888 on Sat, 11 July 2015, 15:38:42
Now I need to decide on a cheap-ish dac/amp to get.. Hoping some are on sale during this Amazon Prime Day event coming up.

I like the stuff from http://hotaudio.com (http://hotaudio.com) I use one of their USB DACs and it is really nice.  They also have amp/dac combos that might be interesting to you.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 11 July 2015, 16:28:54
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Hopefully some LCDs. I just auditioned some and man they are something...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 11 July 2015, 16:29:38
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Hopefully some LCDs. I just auditioned some and man they are something...

Every LCD I've heard (admittedly only 2) was so good.  Too bad they're so much $

(wanna buy some barely used xc?)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 11 July 2015, 16:30:53
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Hopefully some LCDs. I just auditioned some and man they are something...

Every LCD I've heard (admittedly only 2) was so good.  Too bad they're so much $

I just got to try the LCD 3's, LCD X's, and LCD XC's. LCD 3 was my favorite. The bass is magical. X's were a bit too sparkly for me. XC were very good.. Very open for a closed can.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 11 July 2015, 16:32:21
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Hopefully some LCDs. I just auditioned some and man they are something...

Every LCD I've heard (admittedly only 2) was so good.  Too bad they're so much $

I just got to try the LCD 3's, LCD X's, and LCD XC's. LCD 3 was my favorite. The bass is magical. X's were a bit too sparkly for me. XC were very good.. Very open for a closed can.




(wanna buy some barely used xc?)

Also, you're right about audeze bass, there's just something special about it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 11 July 2015, 16:35:06
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Hopefully some LCDs. I just auditioned some and man they are something...

Every LCD I've heard (admittedly only 2) was so good.  Too bad they're so much $

I just got to try the LCD 3's, LCD X's, and LCD XC's. LCD 3 was my favorite. The bass is magical. X's were a bit too sparkly for me. XC were very good.. Very open for a closed can.




(wanna buy some barely used xc?)

PM your price TJ. Although I am primarily looking for an open can. But can't say no to good deals.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rotaku on Sat, 11 July 2015, 16:40:38
(http://imgur.com/BXvl1Fo.jpg)
A package came in today  :cool: and coming from the K553, these blow them out of the water
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 11 July 2015, 18:53:55
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Maybe some shiny new 400s?

Thinking about getting a pair to check out myself.  I like the new connector style and the early reviews haven't chased me off yet.

If the 400s goes on sale on Prime Day I might have to reconsider my x2s.  I think they should have picked a better name than 400s tho.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 11 July 2015, 19:05:25
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Maybe some shiny new 400s?

Thinking about getting a pair to check out myself.  I like the new connector style and the early reviews haven't chased me off yet.

If the 400s goes on sale on Prime Day I might have to reconsider my x2s.  I think they should have picked a better name than 400s tho.

I'm actually debating between the x2 and 400s for my open option.  I kinda want a planar, but hfm's planars don't have the same low end feel that audeze does and a lot of reviews are saying it's a more neutral sound than the x2, too...

Guess I'll see what prime day does, too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 11 July 2015, 19:11:32
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Maybe some shiny new 400s?

Thinking about getting a pair to check out myself.  I like the new connector style and the early reviews haven't chased me off yet.

If the 400s goes on sale on Prime Day I might have to reconsider my x2s.  I think they should have picked a better name than 400s tho.

I'm actually debating between the x2 and 400s for my open option.  I kinda want a planar, but hfm's planars don't have the same low end feel that audeze does and a lot of reviews are saying it's a more neutral sound than the x2, too...

Guess I'll see what prime day does, too.

I picked up one of the warehouse deals x2s for $240, so I didn't feel the need to wait for Prime Day on that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 11 July 2015, 19:37:33
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Maybe some shiny new 400s?

Thinking about getting a pair to check out myself.  I like the new connector style and the early reviews haven't chased me off yet.

If the 400s goes on sale on Prime Day I might have to reconsider my x2s.  I think they should have picked a better name than 400s tho.

I'm actually debating between the x2 and 400s for my open option.  I kinda want a planar, but hfm's planars don't have the same low end feel that audeze does and a lot of reviews are saying it's a more neutral sound than the x2, too...

Guess I'll see what prime day does, too.

I picked up one of the warehouse deals x2s for $240, so I didn't feel the need to wait for Prime Day on that.

Hm, there are some up for $225 right now...

Thought about the ps500 from grado, too, but realized I really don't like on ear fitment.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Findecanor on Sun, 12 July 2015, 10:02:39
I got a pair of Audio Technica ATH-M40x today. They are supposed to be professional monitor headphones. I got them because of that, and because they have got really good reviews.

But when I try them out, all music sounds lower than my previous headphones and speakers except for THE BASS IS HURTING MY EARS. The lowest bass has too much pressure.
What? They are supposed to have a near-linear frequency response.
Not just pop music, but also Beatles and Simon and Garfunkel sound weird.

Is there something wrong with my pair of M40x's, have I been misinformed about the frequency response or have all my previous headphones just been crappy?
I want to return the headphones but I am not sure that I can do that if they are supposed to sound this way.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 12 July 2015, 10:17:13


I got a pair of Audio Technica ATH-M40x today. They are supposed to be professional monitor headphones. I got them because of that, and because they have got really good reviews.

But when I try them out, all music sounds lower than my previous headphones and speakers except for THE BASS IS HURTING MY EARS. The lowest bass has too much pressure.
What? They are supposed to have a near-linear frequency response.
Not just pop music, but also Beatles and Simon and Garfunkel sound weird.

Is there something wrong with my pair of M40x's, have I been misinformed about the frequency response or have all my previous headphones just been crappy?
I want to return the headphones but I am not sure that I can do that if they are supposed to sound this way.

My guess is that your ears have not adjusted to the sound signature of the headphones. M40 and M50 have really good bass extension. This means they can play very low sub-bass frequencies at detectable db. Sub bass is felt more than heard so maybe that is what you're not used to.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 12 July 2015, 13:32:23
**** the MEE grabbag shipped woo cheap iems

haven't had much chance to spent time with my cans lately :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 13 July 2015, 13:56:43
Got my Philips Fidelio X2s today.. have to return them, the cable seems to be faulty.  The sound cuts out if you wiggle the cable the wrong way.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 13 July 2015, 13:58:07
**** the MEE grabbag shipped woo cheap iems

haven't had much chance to spent time with my cans lately :(

#massdrop_hates_on_canadians
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 15 July 2015, 10:19:29
Anyone interested in buying some HE400i's?  :rolleyes:

what're you gonna replace them with?

Maybe some shiny new 400s?

Thinking about getting a pair to check out myself.  I like the new connector style and the early reviews haven't chased me off yet.

If the 400s goes on sale on Prime Day I might have to reconsider my x2s.  I think they should have picked a better name than 400s tho.

I'm actually debating between the x2 and 400s for my open option.  I kinda want a planar, but hfm's planars don't have the same low end feel that audeze does and a lot of reviews are saying it's a more neutral sound than the x2, too...

Guess I'll see what prime day does, too.

The X2s are on sale for $70 off today!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Wed, 15 July 2015, 10:28:07
Anybody looking for some th600?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 15 July 2015, 10:32:17
Anybody looking for some th600?

I might be when CAD USD gets a little closer to sane ratios, and shipping becomes free.

but yes, I'm very tempted  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 15 July 2015, 10:34:36
Anybody looking for some th600?

I might be when CAD USD gets a little closer to sane ratios, and shipping becomes free.

but yes, I'm very tempted  :p

Pay him in super cheap Canadian medications instead!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 15 July 2015, 10:37:09
Anybody looking for some th600?

I might be when CAD USD gets a little closer to sane ratios, and shipping becomes free.

but yes, I'm very tempted  :p

Pay him in super cheap Canadian medications instead!

then i'd also have to give him the equivalent ~35% income tax I paid to fund them :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 15 July 2015, 13:43:09
M-Duos are ok
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 15 July 2015, 13:44:55
Prime day is not ok
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 15 July 2015, 13:46:14
Prime day is not ok


Fidelio X2s were on for a decent price, but I am waiting for more reviews of the he-400S
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 15 July 2015, 13:48:14
Prime day is not ok

Just checked the 'murican site, HD650s are down 10 cents from 459.00 to 458.90.

(http://i.imgur.com/K00dWto.png)

Get 'em while they're hot.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Wed, 15 July 2015, 14:06:42
Prime day is more like **** we can't sell any other day, day.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Wed, 15 July 2015, 14:08:19
Prime day is more like **** we can't sell any other day, day.

(http://i.imgur.com/lshD7Wl.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 15 July 2015, 14:30:59
The koss esp950 was down to 650 CDN which is a damn good price.

That's about $520USD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 15 July 2015, 14:50:01
Prime day is not ok


Fidelio X2s were on for a decent price, but I am waiting for more reviews of the he-400S

Yes, but lightning sale, so there were less than enough for the demand available.  Or something.  I dunno, it would let me buy a pair with prime shipping and no delay at normal price fine, but not lightning sale price.

The koss esp950 was down to 650 CDN which is a damn good price.

That's about $520USD

I keep getting told I need to try those...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 15 July 2015, 15:12:56
Electrostats are very unique...

If I didn't just pick up a GTX 980 and another duck viper I'd be on that deal so fast.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 18 July 2015, 16:47:20
Enjoying the Fidelio x2s so far
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 18 July 2015, 18:30:59
M-Duos have been casually burned in... they're nice for what I paid. All these sub $100 iems I'm getting to try are pretty impressive. Makes me think I'll never move onto customs
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 18 July 2015, 18:49:25
M-Duos have been casually burned in... they're nice for what I paid. All these sub $100 iems I'm getting to try are pretty impressive. Makes me think I'll never move onto customs

Because you keep spending money on also-rans instead of saving it for something good.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jackmercer on Tue, 21 July 2015, 09:40:21
you should get the 30 dollar iphone headphones . I know that they don't seem very good , but believe me they are :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 21 July 2015, 09:42:30
you should get the 30 dollar iphone headphones . I know that they don't seem very good , but believe me they are :thumb:

your trolling game needs a class in subtlety :P

disclaimer: they are actually decent, heard them before. i think fostex makes them or something.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 21 July 2015, 09:44:43
you should get the 30 dollar iphone headphones . I know that they don't seem very good , but believe me they are :thumb:

your trolling game needs a class in subtlety :P
He isn't trolling, he just wants free steam game codes from another thread and he needs 30 posts.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jackmercer on Tue, 21 July 2015, 09:56:04
you should get the 30 dollar iphone headphones . I know that they don't seem very good , but believe me they are :thumb:

your trolling game needs a class in subtlety :P
He isn't trolling, he just wants free steam game codes from another thread and he needs 30 posts.
Hey , at least i was trying to write something sensible  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 21 July 2015, 10:21:54
I've heard that the apple ear buds are pretty decent from a few sources now
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 21 July 2015, 10:26:18
I bought a pair of Fidelio x2s and my wife bought a pair for me as well, so I have an extra pair atm.. either need to find someone that needs them or return one :o
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jamster on Tue, 21 July 2015, 10:28:49
I've heard that the apple ear buds are pretty decent from a few sources now

The free ones that come with an iDevice? Any sort of earbud is hard to go back to after using IEMs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 21 July 2015, 11:05:05
I've heard that the apple ear buds are pretty decent from a few sources now

The free ones that come with an iDevice? Any sort of earbud is hard to go back to after using IEMs.

No, the BA IEMs that they sell are supposedly not bad. The stock earbuds are awful
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Findecanor on Tue, 21 July 2015, 11:28:13
Now I need some really sound-blocking good head-phones for work... Next to me are some salesmen that platter on all day, and it is driving me mad.

My guess is that your ears have not adjusted to the sound signature of the headphones. M40 and M50 have really good bass extension. This means they can play very low sub-bass frequencies at detectable db. Sub bass is felt more than heard so maybe that is what you're not used to.
I figured out what it was. The M40Xs are just not particularly well defined in the lower bass registers. I have been used to my Denon AH-D1001 that are much better in that way.
The Denon phones seem to be discontinued... except rebranded as Creative Aurvana Live!. They don't seem to have been built any sturdier, though... I got the M40Xs because my old ones had a broken plastic hinge.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 21 July 2015, 11:29:57
Now I need some really sound-blocking good head-phones for work... Next to me are some salesmen that platter on all day, and it is driving me mad.

My guess is that your ears have not adjusted to the sound signature of the headphones. M40 and M50 have really good bass extension. This means they can play very low sub-bass frequencies at detectable db. Sub bass is felt more than heard so maybe that is what you're not used to.
I figured out what it was. The M40s are just not particularly well defined in the lower bass registers. I have been used to my Denon AH-D1001 that are much better in that way.

Look into the sennheiser momentums, classy for work, sound great, comfy, and are easy to drive if you don't want to buy an amp/dac for work.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 21 July 2015, 11:30:44
Now I need some really sound-blocking good head-phones for work... Next to me are some salesmen that platter on all day, and it is driving me mad.

if you can settle for passable SQ, Bose are REALLY good at noise cancelling.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 21 July 2015, 11:39:34
Now I need some really sound-blocking good head-phones for work... Next to me are some salesmen that platter on all day, and it is driving me mad.

if you can settle for passable SQ, Bose are REALLY good at noise cancelling.

I really doubt that he requires an active noise cancelling and I don't think the bose headphones filter voices out that well.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 21 July 2015, 12:01:10
Now I need some really sound-blocking good head-phones for work... Next to me are some salesmen that platter on all day, and it is driving me mad.

if you can settle for passable SQ, Bose are REALLY good at noise cancelling.

I really doubt that he requires an active noise cancelling and I don't think the bose headphones filter voices out that well.

IEMs then, but not sure if he/she likes things sticking in their ear. can't comment on closed backs as I've never used them for blocking out voices. i just recommended bose because it helps with ambient stuff. i've never really thought about how they work with voices though, so you're probably right on that point.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Findecanor on Tue, 21 July 2015, 12:01:52
Yeah, active noise cancellation can only filter out continuous noise such as the whirr on air planes and trains, so it is not that that I am after.
However, I tried a couple of BOSE cancelling headphones yesterday and I think that they are pretty good at dampening sounds overall anyway. The sound quality did not impress me, though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 21 July 2015, 12:53:50
Quote
Audio-Technica's QuietPoint® headphones use active noise-cancelling technology to reduce distracting background noise, providing an exceptionally comfortable and restful listening environment in areas with high ambient noise. Active noise-cancelling headphones have components not present in ordinary headphones:

Microphone – Noise-cancelling headphones feature a miniature microphone in the earpiece that picks up ambient noise (such as traffic, air-handling systems, etc.)


Noise-canceling circuitry – Electronics in the ear piece create a noise-cancelling wave that is 180° out of phase with the ambient noise. This wave acts like a noise eraser: it cancels out the annoying sounds that surround you without diminishing the audio you want to hear. The result…a peaceful enclave to enjoy the music or movies of your choice.


Battery – The noise-cancelling electronics are battery-powered.

Normally they focus on specific frequencies though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PointyFox on Tue, 21 July 2015, 23:07:24
M-Duos have been casually burned in... they're nice for what I paid. All these sub $100 iems I'm getting to try are pretty impressive. Makes me think I'll never move onto customs

I got the M-Duos too.  They're slightly better than my $7 Philips earbuds.  Well, the left one is.  The right one doesn't work right out of the box. :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 22 July 2015, 00:04:05
The right side of my AKG K812 suddenly went mute, tried changing cables (have two, stock and a custom 3rd party one), no joy. :( I was especially troubled because they are supposed to be off warranty, and the local distributor was rather reticent about cost of repair/replacement. Anyway, since it was one of my TOTL cans, I steeled myself and went ahead with the RMA (was prepared to pay up to 500USD for replacement). Since I'd gotten the can used, the seller indicated it was off warranty, and had been using it for a few months, I was expecting to be hit a few hundred USD's for the repair/replacement. :'(

A few days turned into weeks (the can had to be shipped to AKG Austria for assessment), and honestly speaking, I'd more or less given up on it. Called the local distributor at around the sixth week mark and was pleasantly surprised when I was told AKG has decided to replace my faulty unit with a brand new one! Of course, it occurred to me that I might have to pony up some serious deniros for the new unit. Imagine my even greater surprise when I was told that I need only pay for the shipping cost to AKG, that amounted to about 50USD! ;D

When I went to the local distributor for my replacement unit, the rep there opened a brand new sealed box of K812 before my eyes, I took the headphone and cable only, since I'd given them my headphone and cable for the RMA. Now that's outstanding customer service and I believe goodwill was extended to me as well. It's my firm belief that the warranty had expired, yet I need only pay a token shipping fee for a brand new unit......I don't think Sennheiser would ever do that! Not hating on Senn, just something I've gathered from other forums. Besides, I'm something of a Seen fanboy myself, but due to the outstanding manner in which my RMA was handled, I'd be more predisposed to getting another AKG can in the near future.

Anyway, sorry 'bout the rather long post, just rather stoked that I have a brand new K812 for a token RMA fee....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/01_zpstnr8l4li.jpg)
But this time round, the K812 isn't made in Austria anymore, and doesn't have that 'Made in Austria' print printed on the side, rather, there's a small sticker indicating country of origin.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/02_zpsxgtyezl1.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 22 July 2015, 00:10:31
The right side of my AKG K812 suddenly went mute, tried changing cables (have two, stock and a custom 3rd party one), no joy. :( I was especially troubled because they are supposed to be off warranty, and the local distributor was rather reticent about cost of repair/replacement. Anyway, since it was one of my TOTL cans, I steeled myself and went ahead with the RMA (was prepared to pay up to 500USD for replacement). Since I'd gotten the can used, the seller indicated it was off warranty, and had been using it for a few months, I was expecting to be hit a few hundred USD's for the repair/replacement. :'(

A few days turned into weeks (the can had to be shipped to AKG Austria for assessment), and honestly speaking, I'd more or less given up on it. Called the local distributor at around the sixth week mark and was pleasantly surprised when I was told AKG has decided to replace my faulty unit with a brand new one! Of course, it occurred to me that I might have to pony up some serious deniros for the new unit. Imagine my even greater surprise when I was told that I need only pay for the shipping cost to AKG, that amounted to about 50USD! ;D

When I went to the local distributor for my replacement unit, the rep there opened a brand new sealed box of K812 before my eyes, I took the headphone and cable only, since I'd given them my headphone and cable for the RMA. Now that's outstanding customer service and I believe goodwill was extended to me as well. It's my firm belief that the warranty had expired, yet I need only pay a token shipping fee for a brand new unit......I don't think Sennheiser would ever do that! Not hating on Senn, just something I've gathered from other forums. Besides, I'm something of a Seen fanboy myself, but due to the outstanding manner in which my RMA was handled, I'd be more predisposed to getting another AKG can in the near future.

Anyway, sorry 'bout the rather long post, just rather stoked that I have a brand new K812 for a token RMA fee....
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/01_zpstnr8l4li.jpg)

But this time round, the K812 isn't made in Austria anymore, and doesn't have that 'Made in Austria' print printed on the side, rather, there's a small sticker indicating country of origin.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/02_zpsxgtyezl1.jpg)

What Senns do you have? I remember reading earlier in the thread that you traded your 800s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nothing4me on Wed, 22 July 2015, 00:16:55
Best headphone I've ever had was the Audeze LCD-2. It just felt so real. However, it was kind of heavy and I moved to another office where open-backs would be annoying to others. I can't stand closed backs, so now I'm some using some cheapo earphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 22 July 2015, 08:28:57
What Senns do you have? I remember reading earlier in the thread that you traded your 800s.
Yep, traded my HD800 for a Grado PS1000, and I have the IE800, HD700 and an old HD555.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 08:37:13
Best headphone I've ever had was the Audeze LCD-2. It just felt so real. However, it was kind of heavy and I moved to another office where open-backs would be annoying to others. I can't stand closed backs, so now I'm some using some cheapo earphones.

Audeze has the LCD XC and the ELC8

Both of which are closed back.

The TH900 (although semi open) really made me rethink what's possible in a closed back.

I wouldn't discount any headphones purely on closed back because if done properly and well can sound VERY good and basically the same as an open back without the slight airiness inherent in an open back
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 22 July 2015, 12:40:59
I have had a lot of time to listen to the Audeze LCD XCs and they sound great! Completely changed my opinion on closed-back headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 22 July 2015, 13:03:15
I have had a lot of time to listen to the Audeze LCD XCs and they sound great! Completely changed my opinion on closed-back headphones.

I wish I didn't have to sell mine.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 13:36:49
I have had a lot of time to listen to the Audeze LCD XCs and they sound great! Completely changed my opinion on closed-back headphones.

I wish I didn't have to sell mine.

Why is TJ selling all his audio goodies?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 22 July 2015, 13:38:28
I have had a lot of time to listen to the Audeze LCD XCs and they sound great! Completely changed my opinion on closed-back headphones.

I wish I didn't have to sell mine.

I still want them.. I just can't justify it at the moment..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 22 July 2015, 13:39:36
I have had a lot of time to listen to the Audeze LCD XCs and they sound great! Completely changed my opinion on closed-back headphones.

I wish I didn't have to sell mine.

Why is TJ selling all his audio goodies?

Because I realized while I like amps and dacs and $1500 headphones, I was listening to music way louder than my ears needed and also because I'm kinda falling out of interest with summit-fi gear.  Esp when I can have a bunch of different mid tier gear to try (I enjoy the chase more than having perfection, I think) and keep and still have money for things like cheese.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 22 July 2015, 13:48:16
I have had a lot of time to listen to the Audeze LCD XCs and they sound great! Completely changed my opinion on closed-back headphones.

I wish I didn't have to sell mine.

Why is TJ selling all his audio goodies?

Because I realized while I like amps and dacs and $1500 headphones, I was listening to music way louder than my ears needed and also because I'm kinda falling out of interest with summit-fi gear.  Esp when I can have a bunch of different mid tier gear to try (I enjoy the chase more than having perfection, I think) and keep and still have money for things like cheese.


Cheese is good.  :)


I am currently interested in the HE-400S. Going to go down to my local headphone shop next week to check them out and compare them to the he-400i and 560s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 22 July 2015, 13:49:24
I have had a lot of time to listen to the Audeze LCD XCs and they sound great! Completely changed my opinion on closed-back headphones.

I wish I didn't have to sell mine.

Why is TJ selling all his audio goodies?

Because I realized while I like amps and dacs and $1500 headphones, I was listening to music way louder than my ears needed and also because I'm kinda falling out of interest with summit-fi gear.  Esp when I can have a bunch of different mid tier gear to try (I enjoy the chase more than having perfection, I think) and keep and still have money for things like cheese.

Exactly why I cant justify buying LCD's over the HD650s for marginal improvement.  :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 13:51:54
Cheese like cheese whiz?

And I guess the TH900 is sold? =P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 22 July 2015, 14:28:07
I have had a lot of time to listen to the Audeze LCD XCs and they sound great! Completely changed my opinion on closed-back headphones.

I wish I didn't have to sell mine.

Why is TJ selling all his audio goodies?

Because I realized while I like amps and dacs and $1500 headphones, I was listening to music way louder than my ears needed and also because I'm kinda falling out of interest with summit-fi gear.  Esp when I can have a bunch of different mid tier gear to try (I enjoy the chase more than having perfection, I think) and keep and still have money for things like cheese.


Cheese is good.  :)


I am currently interested in the HE-400S. Going to go down to my local headphone shop next week to check them out and compare them to the he-400i and 560s.

You should consider some Fidelio x2s! ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 22 July 2015, 15:27:35
I would love to consider the x2s, however my local headphone shop (headphonebar.com) sells pretty much everything except Philips! As I can try most other headphones, I will probably pick something that I have tried and enjoyed over something I cannot.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 16:28:35
I would love to consider the x2s, however my local headphone shop (headphonebar.com) sells pretty much everything except Philips! As I can try most other headphones, I will probably pick something that I have tried and enjoyed over something I cannot.

So lucky...

I wish we had a good retailer like that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Axollott on Wed, 22 July 2015, 17:09:00
I would love to consider the x2s, however my local headphone shop (headphonebar.com) sells pretty much everything except Philips! As I can try most other headphones, I will probably pick something that I have tried and enjoyed over something I cannot.

So lucky...

I wish we had a good retailer like that.
I'm in stupid Mexico where there isn't much at the stores and the little there is they don't let you test it. So I bought the Fidelio X2 and waiting for my package to arrive hopefully this weekend. I've been using HD25's for 8 yrs now. I love them but I recently decided to get some other headphones with more bass extension. After the X2 I might buy the Sennheiser HD 8 DJ. WubbWubb.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 22 July 2015, 17:21:21
I would love to consider the x2s, however my local headphone shop (headphonebar.com) sells pretty much everything except Philips! As I can try most other headphones, I will probably pick something that I have tried and enjoyed over something I cannot.

Pretty sweet being able to try the headphones out in person before you buy them.. I just had to decide based on reviews
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 18:00:36
I would love to consider the x2s, however my local headphone shop (headphonebar.com) sells pretty much everything except Philips! As I can try most other headphones, I will probably pick something that I have tried and enjoyed over something I cannot.

Pretty sweet being able to try the headphones out in person before you buy them.. I just had to decide based on reviews

I hate reviews
I have to read so many before I find one that's applicable to my tastes.

JH Roxanne reviews were very misleading and the Beyer T5p even more so.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 22 July 2015, 18:01:19
Agreed with GL1TCH3D, I'd rather test drive before I buy....with anything. Reviews don't know me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 22 July 2015, 18:21:00
Reading a variety of reviews is better than nothing.. and Amazon's return policy is pretty good if they turn out to be terrible :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 18:48:55
Canadian retailers don't accept returns on headphones.

Even bestbuy that has a pretty open return policy doesn't accept returns.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 22 July 2015, 19:00:35
#blameCanada
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 22 July 2015, 19:46:24
I would love to consider the x2s, however my local headphone shop (headphonebar.com) sells pretty much everything except Philips! As I can try most other headphones, I will probably pick something that I have tried and enjoyed over something I cannot.

Pretty sweet being able to try the headphones out in person before you buy them.. I just had to decide based on reviews

I hate reviews
I have to read so many before I find one that's applicable to my tastes.

JH Roxanne reviews were very misleading and the Beyer T5p even more so.


Funnily enough there was a small review on /r/headphones yesterday from a dude that moved from dt990 pros to he-400S, which is the exact change that I am planning to do. It was a nice review to read since I could relate so well. But I agree that most reviews are hard to understand and don't show the true sound of the headphone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 22 July 2015, 20:16:15
JH Roxanne reviews were very misleading and the Beyer T5p even more so.
I'm thinking of getting a JHA Roxanne Universal, so I'm curious about this, care to elaborate?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 22 July 2015, 21:01:45
Canadian retailers don't accept returns on headphones.

Even bestbuy that has a pretty open return policy doesn't accept returns.

I'm fairly sure Amazon accepts returns on headphones. Sure, it's not a retailer in the strict sense, but it is a viable option.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 21:46:28
JH Roxanne reviews were very misleading and the Beyer T5p even more so.
I'm thinking of getting a JHA Roxanne Universal, so I'm curious about this, care to elaborate?

It was supposed to be released in Jan 2014 and shipped at the end of the month. I preordered it through Moon Audio in mid Jan.

I got it early April with all the delays.

They wouldn't even announce why there were delays. I would only hear it from Moon Audio that there was a delay and that's why he wasn't shipping me anything yet.

He even gave me free 2 day shipping to Canada for the long wait (Good Guy Drew)

I got it and I was hearing a distinct imbalance when I first got it but thought maybe it was the tips or something. Obviously my other audiophile friends wanted to hear it. I showed it to one and he heard something weird but I convinced him that it was probably the tips or something. When I showed it to my other friend and he heard the same imbalance I knew something was up. By then I had them for about a month and I still heard the imbalance a bit even after trying different eartips.

I played around with the balance shift on the Fiio x5 and had to shift it left to fix the balance issue but even then there were problems in the treble. I tried switching the cable sides around but still heard the imbalance in the left side. The drivers / earpiece was defective. I called them using Andy's personal line and he guaranteed me that he'd inspect a brand new pair and ship them out to me. This was about in May. I emailed him my personal info which he requested and waited patiently. A month later I had received nothing in the mail and no email reply. I call back and Angie tells me that he's on vacation and that he hadn't left anything to be sent for me. He went on vacation without sending me the new Roxannes, something that came defective on arrival and that cost $1300 before shipping and taxes.

By the time he finally got back and shipped me the new pair it was July.

Here's a quote from my review over at headfi:

Quote
Why did I give this 1/2 a star? Simply because the experience with these has been absolutely awful.
I found out after talking to a few audiophiles about my pair that the left earpiece may be broken in some way. Basically the mids were muffled and sounded off. Very noticeable if you paid attention to it/ know what to listen for. Otherwise it would just sound like something is off overall. This coming in after all the cosmetic defects and delays is REALLY disappointing. I send emails with no response. I call and get connected to Andy who listens to me and tells me he'll send me a pair first thing Monday morning (Monday being May 19th) and that he would quality check it himself. Well here I am updating this on June 12th with no further response and no replacement after confirming by email that he would send me a replacement on May 19th. This has been an overall awful experience dealing with JH for a $1300 pair of earbuds.

I got to try both the new and old pairs and compare them. It really shocked me to see that the build had been completely changed. While the old ones had darker plastic and a more formed look, the new ones were more bulbous with a more transparent plastic and a bulbous look. They sounded like opposites. With the new driver on the left and the old one on the right, the sound on the old one was dark and veiled with the new one being brighter.

They either changed the way they were making the earbuds or they changed the design without telling anyone hoping that they would be rare enough for no one to notice. Either that or my first pair was REALLY screwed up but my initial impressions matched a lot of the initial impressions.

Another thing worth noting is that JH claimed that these Roxannes were going to be the top of the line for the new series. It took some people a year to get their custom versions. Less than a year after the Roxannes were announced, the Angie and Laylas come out. My friend who ordered his custom roxannes (the first friend that I let try my Roxannes) on Black Friday waited until July / August of 2014 to get them and was obviously pissed when he saw them release a "better" model.

Yet another one of my friends visited JH in person before the Freq Phase came out and he asked them "Do you guys have something else coming out soon? I'm going to be pretty pissed if I buy these JH13s and something else comes out."

Literally a month after he got his 13s done, the FP version came out.

Ah that's my rant about JH for now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 21:49:11
Canadian retailers don't accept returns on headphones.

Even bestbuy that has a pretty open return policy doesn't accept returns.

I'm fairly sure Amazon accepts returns on headphones. Sure, it's not a retailer in the strict sense, but it is a viable option.


Meanwhile from Amazon.ca the M50x is $200CDN

http://www.amazon.ca/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50x-Professional-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR86/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437619625&sr=8-1&keywords=m50x

Something that runs 25% less on amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50x-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR86/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437619661&sr=8-1&keywords=m50x

Or the HD650

http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-650-Headphones/dp/B00018MSNI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437619688&sr=8-1&keywords=hd650

http://www.amazon.ca/Sennheiser-HD-650-Headphones/dp/B00018MSNI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437619703&sr=8-1&keywords=hd650

Even if it's getting better, amazon.ca isn't remotely competitive for pricing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 22 July 2015, 21:59:49
Canadian retailers don't accept returns on headphones.

Even bestbuy that has a pretty open return policy doesn't accept returns.

I'm fairly sure Amazon accepts returns on headphones. Sure, it's not a retailer in the strict sense, but it is a viable option.

Meanwhile from Amazon.ca the M50x is $200CDN

http://www.amazon.ca/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50x-Professional-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR86/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437619625&sr=8-1&keywords=m50x

Something that runs 25% less on amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50x-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR86/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437619661&sr=8-1&keywords=m50x

Or the HD650

http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-650-Headphones/dp/B00018MSNI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437619688&sr=8-1&keywords=hd650

http://www.amazon.ca/Sennheiser-HD-650-Headphones/dp/B00018MSNI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437619703&sr=8-1&keywords=hd650

Even if it's getting better, amazon.ca isn't remotely competitive for pricing.

I think that has a lot to do with the exchange rate. The price on .ca is equivalent to the price in USD on .com. Also, a percentage of that cost is due to the great return policy.

Sure, I tend to order from brick and mortar shops like Headphone Bar. But amazon does have good deals when things go on sale. HD598s were 149.99 a while back. And Amazon is pretty damn good when compared to most retailers in Canada that offer the robust return policy it does. AFAIK Headphone Bar does not offer strict returns, only exchanges, and earphones aren't even up for exchange.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 22 July 2015, 22:14:57
The prices were even worse when the Canadian dollar was better. It's only now that the CDN dropped 15% in value that the prices are even coming close.

The only thing I ordered from Amazon.ca EVER was a single book in 2014.

I use Amazon.com more than I do amazon.ca even if I have to use a proxy or wait for family to pick it up for me.


I might start browsing it more since the Canadian dollar is so crappy right now but in the past it was awful for purchases
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 22 July 2015, 22:25:08
Well we'll have to agree to disagree here. I don't share your hate of amazon, I find that the prices for what I tend to buy are pretty reasonable, maybe a few bucks more on amazon, but I prefer that to dealing with smaller entities with not guaranteed customer service.

Anyway, tl;dr canadians get shafted in general for esoteric hobbies - keyboards, cans, shipping.

all in the name of free health care which I never use. [/oversimplification]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 23 July 2015, 03:09:25

It was supposed to be released in Jan 2014 and shipped at the end of the month. I preordered it through Moon Audio in mid Jan.

I got it early April with all the delays.

They wouldn't even announce why there were delays. I would only hear it from Moon Audio that there was a delay and that's why he wasn't shipping me anything yet.

He even gave me free 2 day shipping to Canada for the long wait (Good Guy Drew)

I got it and I was hearing a distinct imbalance when I first got it but thought maybe it was the tips or something. Obviously my other audiophile friends wanted to hear it. I showed it to one and he heard something weird but I convinced him that it was probably the tips or something. When I showed it to my other friend and he heard the same imbalance I knew something was up. By then I had them for about a month and I still heard the imbalance a bit even after trying different eartips.

I played around with the balance shift on the Fiio x5 and had to shift it left to fix the balance issue but even then there were problems in the treble. I tried switching the cable sides around but still heard the imbalance in the left side. The drivers / earpiece was defective. I called them using Andy's personal line and he guaranteed me that he'd inspect a brand new pair and ship them out to me. This was about in May. I emailed him my personal info which he requested and waited patiently. A month later I had received nothing in the mail and no email reply. I call back and Angie tells me that he's on vacation and that he hadn't left anything to be sent for me. He went on vacation without sending me the new Roxannes, something that came defective on arrival and that cost $1300 before shipping and taxes.

By the time he finally got back and shipped me the new pair it was July.

Here's a quote from my review over at headfi:

Quote
Why did I give this 1/2 a star? Simply because the experience with these has been absolutely awful.
I found out after talking to a few audiophiles about my pair that the left earpiece may be broken in some way. Basically the mids were muffled and sounded off. Very noticeable if you paid attention to it/ know what to listen for. Otherwise it would just sound like something is off overall. This coming in after all the cosmetic defects and delays is REALLY disappointing. I send emails with no response. I call and get connected to Andy who listens to me and tells me he'll send me a pair first thing Monday morning (Monday being May 19th) and that he would quality check it himself. Well here I am updating this on June 12th with no further response and no replacement after confirming by email that he would send me a replacement on May 19th. This has been an overall awful experience dealing with JH for a $1300 pair of earbuds.

I got to try both the new and old pairs and compare them. It really shocked me to see that the build had been completely changed. While the old ones had darker plastic and a more formed look, the new ones were more bulbous with a more transparent plastic and a bulbous look. They sounded like opposites. With the new driver on the left and the old one on the right, the sound on the old one was dark and veiled with the new one being brighter.

They either changed the way they were making the earbuds or they changed the design without telling anyone hoping that they would be rare enough for no one to notice. Either that or my first pair was REALLY screwed up but my initial impressions matched a lot of the initial impressions.

Another thing worth noting is that JH claimed that these Roxannes were going to be the top of the line for the new series. It took some people a year to get their custom versions. Less than a year after the Roxannes were announced, the Angie and Laylas come out. My friend who ordered his custom roxannes (the first friend that I let try my Roxannes) on Black Friday waited until July / August of 2014 to get them and was obviously pissed when he saw them release a "better" model.

Yet another one of my friends visited JH in person before the Freq Phase came out and he asked them "Do you guys have something else coming out soon? I'm going to be pretty pissed if I buy these JH13s and something else comes out."

Literally a month after he got his 13s done, the FP version came out.

Ah that's my rant about JH for now.
Oh my, this makes me quite leery of getting the Roxanne, thanks for the headsup. I think I'd be better off with an Heir Audio 8a CIEM, thought I don't like the idea of CIEM's....but seeing that someone is selling his pair of 8a for about 500USD, perhaps I'd be better off with it. Or, I might not get any more IEM's/CIEM's and shift my focus back to getting some cans I'd promised myself.....like the HE4S and a Shure 1540 for example.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 23 July 2015, 13:13:52
Any thoughts on gungnir and moljnir from schiit?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 23 July 2015, 15:09:03

Ah that's my rant about JH for now.
Oh my, this makes me quite leery of getting the Roxanne, thanks for the headsup. I think I'd be better off with an Heir Audio 8a CIEM, thought I don't like the idea of CIEM's....but seeing that someone is selling his pair of 8a for about 500USD, perhaps I'd be better off with it. Or, I might not get any more IEM's/CIEM's and shift my focus back to getting some cans I'd promised myself.....like the HE4S and a Shure 1540 for example.

Not trying to scare you away.

I'm generally considered the unluckiest person in a lot of groups for just negative random occurances. In video games my RNG equates to just about nothing. I can't get a good roll for my life. I can have 95% chance of success and fail consistently.

In real life it's not quite as bad but still very bad. I don't remember reading about any other defective Roxanne's. (Though there are still a lot of people mad about the stunt of hiding the Laylas / Angies until everyone's ordered the Roxanne's).

I've had my T5p break, the Roxanne came defective.

Luckily I've never had anything lost in the mail, though customs has opened and held my last 4 international purchases. They've also held every single fountain pen purchase for inspection.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 23 July 2015, 15:10:54

Ah that's my rant about JH for now.
Oh my, this makes me quite leery of getting the Roxanne, thanks for the headsup. I think I'd be better off with an Heir Audio 8a CIEM, thought I don't like the idea of CIEM's....but seeing that someone is selling his pair of 8a for about 500USD, perhaps I'd be better off with it. Or, I might not get any more IEM's/CIEM's and shift my focus back to getting some cans I'd promised myself.....like the HE4S and a Shure 1540 for example.

Not trying to scare you away.

I'm generally considered the unluckiest person in a lot of groups for just negative random occurances. In video games my RNG equates to just about nothing. I can't get a good roll for my life. I can have 95% chance of success and fail consistently.

In real life it's not quite as bad but still very bad. I don't remember reading about any other defective Roxanne's. (Though there are still a lot of people mad about the stunt of hiding the Laylas / Angies until everyone's ordered the Roxanne's).

I've had my T5p break, the Roxanne came defective.

Luckily I've never had anything lost in the mail, though customs has opened and held my last 4 international purchases. They've also held every single fountain pen purchase for inspection.

Don't play XCOM  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 23 July 2015, 16:05:36

Ah that's my rant about JH for now.
Oh my, this makes me quite leery of getting the Roxanne, thanks for the headsup. I think I'd be better off with an Heir Audio 8a CIEM, thought I don't like the idea of CIEM's....but seeing that someone is selling his pair of 8a for about 500USD, perhaps I'd be better off with it. Or, I might not get any more IEM's/CIEM's and shift my focus back to getting some cans I'd promised myself.....like the HE4S and a Shure 1540 for example.

Not trying to scare you away.

I'm generally considered the unluckiest person in a lot of groups for just negative random occurances. In video games my RNG equates to just about nothing. I can't get a good roll for my life. I can have 95% chance of success and fail consistently.

In real life it's not quite as bad but still very bad. I don't remember reading about any other defective Roxanne's. (Though there are still a lot of people mad about the stunt of hiding the Laylas / Angies until everyone's ordered the Roxanne's).

I've had my T5p break, the Roxanne came defective.

Luckily I've never had anything lost in the mail, though customs has opened and held my last 4 international purchases. They've also held every single fountain pen purchase for inspection.

Don't play XCOM  :p

I play enough games with RNG.

Smite the MOBA has a chance based critical hit system and even with a 90% chance I can't seem to crit for **** resulting in my death. No matter how much better my accuracy is I can't put out the damage out.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 23 July 2015, 18:55:00
I was tossing up whether to get the Roxanne's or the Angie but decided on se846's instead and after reading your experiences I'm kinda glad. Saved on money and hassel.

SE846 with zx2 = Boss btw :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 23 July 2015, 21:13:29
I was tossing up whether to get the Roxanne's or the Angie but decided on se846's instead and after reading your experiences I'm kinda glad. Saved on money and hassel.

SE846 with zx2 = Boss btw :)

While the Shure house sig works for me my tiny little ears don't fit the 846 =[

Gratz on the purchase
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 23 July 2015, 21:47:23
Can anyone comment on RHA MA750 vs Vsonic GR07 vs Fostex TE-05, i.e. experiences with any of these?

IEMs are so much harder to pick...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 23 July 2015, 21:58:32
The GR07's have a cult following and apparently have exceptional bass but unfortunately that is all i can chime in on haha.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 24 July 2015, 08:59:46
I've more or less dropped the Roxanne Yniversal......an Heir Audio 8a has caught my eyes. The cost of the *a plus reshelling would cost me about 580USD, so I'm thinking I might just go for it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 24 July 2015, 10:28:58
I've more or less dropped the Roxanne Yniversal......an Heir Audio 8a has caught my eyes. The cost of the *a plus reshelling would cost me about 580USD, so I'm thinking I might just go for it.

Well $1080 total is still less than a Roxanne =P

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 24 July 2015, 22:14:05
Well $1080 total is still less than a Roxanne =P
No, the cost of reshelling and the earphones themselves would total 580usd.....a good deal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ramage on Fri, 24 July 2015, 22:25:33
This is a really old thread but I'm rocking some HD600's and a M & M Schiit stack with a custom Cardas cable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 25 July 2015, 11:49:15
This is a really old thread but I'm rocking some HD600's and a M & M Schiit stack with a custom Cardas cable.

How are the magni/modi working for you? I've been thinking about getting the m&m version 2 myself.. soon as I can get them through the W.A.P. (wife approval process)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ramage on Sat, 25 July 2015, 13:48:54
They're awesome and probably the best bang for your buck on the market. The sound is just phenomenal and so clear.  I know you can spend significantly more on dacs and amps but I can't imagine I'd ever need anything more than these.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 25 July 2015, 16:28:09
They're awesome and probably the best bang for your buck on the market. The sound is just phenomenal and so clear.  I know you can spend significantly more on dacs and amps but I can't imagine I'd ever need anything more than these.

^ Agreed.  For all but the rare ultra inefficient headphone, that pairing is more than enough for anything in my opinion.  Especially the uber versions.

Now to decide if I want a pair of prime day returned x2 on amazon...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 25 July 2015, 23:21:36
JH Roxanne reviews were very misleading and the Beyer T5p even more so.
I'm thinking of getting a JHA Roxanne Universal, so I'm curious about this, care to elaborate?

It was supposed to be released in Jan 2014 and shipped at the end of the month. I preordered it through Moon Audio in mid Jan.

I got it early April with all the delays.

They wouldn't even announce why there were delays. I would only hear it from Moon Audio that there was a delay and that's why he wasn't shipping me anything yet.

He even gave me free 2 day shipping to Canada for the long wait (Good Guy Drew)

I got it and I was hearing a distinct imbalance when I first got it but thought maybe it was the tips or something. Obviously my other audiophile friends wanted to hear it. I showed it to one and he heard something weird but I convinced him that it was probably the tips or something. When I showed it to my other friend and he heard the same imbalance I knew something was up. By then I had them for about a month and I still heard the imbalance a bit even after trying different eartips.

I played around with the balance shift on the Fiio x5 and had to shift it left to fix the balance issue but even then there were problems in the treble. I tried switching the cable sides around but still heard the imbalance in the left side. The drivers / earpiece was defective. I called them using Andy's personal line and he guaranteed me that he'd inspect a brand new pair and ship them out to me. This was about in May. I emailed him my personal info which he requested and waited patiently. A month later I had received nothing in the mail and no email reply. I call back and Angie tells me that he's on vacation and that he hadn't left anything to be sent for me. He went on vacation without sending me the new Roxannes, something that came defective on arrival and that cost $1300 before shipping and taxes.

By the time he finally got back and shipped me the new pair it was July.

Here's a quote from my review over at headfi:

Quote
Why did I give this 1/2 a star? Simply because the experience with these has been absolutely awful.
I found out after talking to a few audiophiles about my pair that the left earpiece may be broken in some way. Basically the mids were muffled and sounded off. Very noticeable if you paid attention to it/ know what to listen for. Otherwise it would just sound like something is off overall. This coming in after all the cosmetic defects and delays is REALLY disappointing. I send emails with no response. I call and get connected to Andy who listens to me and tells me he'll send me a pair first thing Monday morning (Monday being May 19th) and that he would quality check it himself. Well here I am updating this on June 12th with no further response and no replacement after confirming by email that he would send me a replacement on May 19th. This has been an overall awful experience dealing with JH for a $1300 pair of earbuds.

I got to try both the new and old pairs and compare them. It really shocked me to see that the build had been completely changed. While the old ones had darker plastic and a more formed look, the new ones were more bulbous with a more transparent plastic and a bulbous look. They sounded like opposites. With the new driver on the left and the old one on the right, the sound on the old one was dark and veiled with the new one being brighter.

They either changed the way they were making the earbuds or they changed the design without telling anyone hoping that they would be rare enough for no one to notice. Either that or my first pair was REALLY screwed up but my initial impressions matched a lot of the initial impressions.

Another thing worth noting is that JH claimed that these Roxannes were going to be the top of the line for the new series. It took some people a year to get their custom versions. Less than a year after the Roxannes were announced, the Angie and Laylas come out. My friend who ordered his custom roxannes (the first friend that I let try my Roxannes) on Black Friday waited until July / August of 2014 to get them and was obviously pissed when he saw them release a "better" model.

Yet another one of my friends visited JH in person before the Freq Phase came out and he asked them "Do you guys have something else coming out soon? I'm going to be pretty pissed if I buy these JH13s and something else comes out."

Literally a month after he got his 13s done, the FP version came out.

Ah that's my rant about JH for now.

All of this, plus my own experiences with jh for 2 different pair of CIEM, is why I'm going UE or noble (probably noble) when I get back into the CIEM game.  Like night and day difference talking with Brannon than whoever chooses to open the email at JH since I'm not a multi-platinum rock star.


In talking to someone on head-fi, I realized I've owned a total of about 30 pair of headphones in the past 2.5 years.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 25 July 2015, 23:45:59
Jeez I counted about 25 in the same time frame
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ramage on Sat, 25 July 2015, 23:55:47
Glad I heard that about the JH stuff. I was really considering getting a pair of JH ciems in the future.  So you think Noble is the way to go? What about Hidition?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 26 July 2015, 00:08:11
Glad I heard that about the JH stuff. I was really considering getting a pair of JH ciems in the future.  So you think Noble is the way to go? What about Hidition?

Brannan is SUPER responsive to concerns. It's usually same day during the week.

I've organized to ship my CIEMs back by talking to him over facebook. It's a much more relaxing experience.

Unfortunately because I'm the center of bad luck I will not be buying CIEMs again.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dndlmx on Sun, 26 July 2015, 02:51:45
HD600 or DT880 250/600 Premium, which would you choose ?   
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ramage on Sun, 26 July 2015, 02:58:58
HD600 or DT880 250/600 Premium, which would you choose ?
HD600 because I've already been in the position of making that choice and I don't regret going with the 600s at all.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dndlmx on Sun, 26 July 2015, 03:58:36
HD600 or DT880 250/600 Premium, which would you choose ?
HD600 because I've already been in the position of making that choice and I don't regret going with the 600s at all.

They sound great, but the construction has me considering "side" grade.       :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jerr on Sun, 26 July 2015, 04:00:36
My HD600's are amazing, get them :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Axollott on Sun, 26 July 2015, 05:04:34
HD600 or DT880 250/600 Premium, which would you choose ?

HD600 Sennheiser knows what they are doing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jamster on Sun, 26 July 2015, 08:34:28
Anyone had good experiences with IEM build quality over an extended period?

My pair of Shures have had a couple of problems, one where the cable just keeps splitting at the jack (I've read numerous reports of this issue with Shures) and another where one of the earpieces just fell apart and needed to be glued back in.

So... I like IEMs but am leery of Shure. I've owned Etymotics a long time ago, which have been great, but they came with a ridiculous 6' cable which was a hassle to manage.

I'm okay spending maybe 150-200 on headphones, with a preference to clarity and a disinterest in bass (so IEMs are a good fit).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 27 July 2015, 15:42:07
Just had to put £600 aside for my house for the first time, it's going to be a while before I can afford my Vali and Modi, so a long time before I can use my 990s :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 27 July 2015, 15:51:00
Just had to put £600 aside for my house for the first time, it's going to be a while before I can afford my Vali and Modi, so a long time before I can use my 990s :(

Try building something simple in the meantime? =P

If you need some quick juice you could make a cmoy amp for almost nothing.


_----------------

It's a sad day when I get BMed for saying the Shure 940 has bad bass response and the Hd700 has crappy treble spikes.

Guess it's a good time to leave /r/headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Mon, 27 July 2015, 17:44:25
Just had to put £600 aside for my house for the first time, it's going to be a while before I can afford my Vali and Modi, so a long time before I can use my 990s :(

Try building something simple in the meantime? =P

If you need some quick juice you could make a cmoy amp for almost nothing.


_----------------

It's a sad day when I get BMed for saying the Shure 940 has bad bass response and the Hd700 has crappy treble spikes.

Guess it's a good time to leave /r/headphones

I did buy a little amp off mkawa a while ago, it was a community designed one, and it's only like 100mm/60mm. Can't remember for the life of me what it's called and it's at home so I can't get the name off it. I guess I could use it in the mean time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 27 July 2015, 17:51:37
It's a sad day when I get BMed for saying the Shure 940 has bad bass response and the Hd700 has crappy treble spikes.

Guess it's a good time to leave /r/headphones

it's the internet. hell, it's reddit. i wouldn't take their BMing to heart, nor see it as indicative of that subreddit as a whole.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 27 July 2015, 18:10:54
Just had to put £600 aside for my house for the first time, it's going to be a while before I can afford my Vali and Modi, so a long time before I can use my 990s :(

Try building something simple in the meantime? =P

If you need some quick juice you could make a cmoy amp for almost nothing.


_----------------

It's a sad day when I get BMed for saying the Shure 940 has bad bass response and the Hd700 has crappy treble spikes.

Guess it's a good time to leave /r/headphones

For when you want headphone opinions based on cost:performance ratios as deranged dogma - /r/headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 27 July 2015, 20:45:24
It's a sad day when I get BMed for saying the Shure 940 has bad bass response and the Hd700 has crappy treble spikes.

Guess it's a good time to leave /r/headphones

it's the internet. hell, it's reddit. i wouldn't take their BMing to heart, nor see it as indicative of that subreddit as a whole.

It's that a lot of these comments are delusional or completely ignorant. Basing their own opinion of a product from someone else's opinion who had 10 seconds with it and has no comparison for headphones.

Or they've convinced themselves of the opposite so they can rationalize the purchase. The number of times I've heard of "X headphones being the TOTL killer" is insane.

I recently got to audition the SA5000 from Sony which is supposed to be an HD800 killer and it was not even a contest. The only thing I'd say is maybe the sa5000 had a sweeter treble but the rest of the frequency range was far too lacking in quality.

Ugh

Sorry for the rant. Just annoyed by rampant ignorance.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 27 July 2015, 21:00:13
Just had to put £600 aside for my house for the first time, it's going to be a while before I can afford my Vali and Modi, so a long time before I can use my 990s :(

Try building something simple in the meantime? =P

If you need some quick juice you could make a cmoy amp for almost nothing.


_----------------

It's a sad day when I get BMed for saying the Shure 940 has bad bass response and the Hd700 has crappy treble spikes.

Guess it's a good time to leave /r/headphones

How dare you speak against the groupthink and anti-hype hype.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 28 July 2015, 05:58:22
It's a sad day when I get BMed for saying the Shure 940 has bad bass response and the Hd700 has crappy treble spikes.

Guess it's a good time to leave /r/headphones

it's the internet. hell, it's reddit. i wouldn't take their BMing to heart, nor see it as indicative of that subreddit as a whole.

It's that a lot of these comments are delusional or completely ignorant. Basing their own opinion of a product from someone else's opinion who had 10 seconds with it and has no comparison for headphones.

Or they've convinced themselves of the opposite so they can rationalize the purchase. The number of times I've heard of "X headphones being the TOTL killer" is insane.

I recently got to audition the SA5000 from Sony which is supposed to be an HD800 killer and it was not even a contest. The only thing I'd say is maybe the sa5000 had a sweeter treble but the rest of the frequency range was far too lacking in quality.

Ugh

Sorry for the rant. Just annoyed by rampant ignorance.
The same can be said of head-fi. I actually think /r/headphones is better in this respect.

At the end of the day, it's just a guy/girl taking advantage of anonymity to act like an ass to overcome other shortcomings in their life. I find that this mindset helps me get over this stuff.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 28 July 2015, 10:22:26
It's a sad day when I get BMed for saying the Shure 940 has bad bass response and the Hd700 has crappy treble spikes.

Guess it's a good time to leave /r/headphones

it's the internet. hell, it's reddit. i wouldn't take their BMing to heart, nor see it as indicative of that subreddit as a whole.

It's that a lot of these comments are delusional or completely ignorant. Basing their own opinion of a product from someone else's opinion who had 10 seconds with it and has no comparison for headphones.

Or they've convinced themselves of the opposite so they can rationalize the purchase. The number of times I've heard of "X headphones being the TOTL killer" is insane.

I recently got to audition the SA5000 from Sony which is supposed to be an HD800 killer and it was not even a contest. The only thing I'd say is maybe the sa5000 had a sweeter treble but the rest of the frequency range was far too lacking in quality.

Ugh

Sorry for the rant. Just annoyed by rampant ignorance.
The same can be said of head-fi. I actually think /r/headphones is better in this respect.

At the end of the day, it's just a guy/girl taking advantage of anonymity to act like an ass to overcome other shortcomings in their life. I find that this mindset helps me get over this stuff.

I tend to ignore the big circle jerk threads in headfi.

All those "appreciation" threads.

I'll just join in on discussion threads and such.

There's also a huge elitist mindset among a portion of the members there.

Discussing the AK240 with other owners they don't even see the AK240 as "high end" anymore because the 380 is out...

Weird to see this kind of classification but then again, I bought Alpha Dogs as budget headphones at some point...

On /r/headphones I really don't see any elitism. Most members there seem to just own a a few headphones, if even, and base all their knowledge of other headphones on reviews =\

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 28 July 2015, 10:33:05
On /r/headphones I really don't see any elitism. Most members there seem to just own a a few headphones, if even, and base all their knowledge of other headphones on reviews =\

It's why I use /r/headphones, there tends to be a bit more of an objective approach to things. Although, IMO, at times it still falls victim to "hero" worship, where a bunch of members will become sycophants and blindly defend the views of well established members with strong opinions, and downvote you if you go against it.

Usually if I want good info or reviews I stick to YouTube videos or try changstar once in a while.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 28 July 2015, 10:36:55
On /r/headphones I really don't see any elitism. Most members there seem to just own a a few headphones, if even, and base all their knowledge of other headphones on reviews =\

It's why I use /r/headphones, there tends to be a bit more of an objective approach to things. Although, IMO, at times it still falls victim to "hero" worship, where a bunch of members will become sycophants and blindly defend the views of well established members with strong opinions, and downvote you if you go against it.

Usually if I want good info or reviews I stick to YouTube videos or try changstar once in a while.

Luckily for me I've tried almost every headphones that I'll ever consider getting through owning them, friends owning them or from the show that passes through once a year.

Only missing a couple like the unicorn rarity headphones (R10, Orpheus and L3000) and very new headphones (Hifiman HE1000 and Ether)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Findecanor on Tue, 28 July 2015, 13:53:17
I bought the Shure SRH840 today. Subjectively, they sound much better than the Audio-Technica M40x ... but they should at twice the price.
Still apprehensive, and can't... stop... reading... more headphone reviews. Gah, I hope I won't starting going through headphones now the way I have gone through keyboards.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 28 July 2015, 13:58:57
IEMs under < $200 are so hard to pick... so many choices.

Anyone know of a good IEM ~150-200 range that has great midrange vocals, but does not skimp on treble or sub-bass? Neutral mid-bass is fine with me (HD650 satisfies me for that) but I'm specifically looking for good vocals and good extension. For reference, I think Shure SE215 is not detailed and *too* bassy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Axollott on Tue, 28 July 2015, 14:27:06
IEMs under < $200 are so hard to pick... so many choices.

Anyone know of a good IEM ~150-200 range that has great midrange vocals, but does not skimp on treble or sub-bass? Neutral mid-bass is fine with me (HD650 satisfies me for that) but I'm specifically looking for good vocals and good extension. For reference, I think Shure SE215 is not detailed and *too* bassy.

I think the Sony BHA-3 fits in your description. It has been replaced for newer models but I remember you could still buy them form the US Sony shop website.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 28 July 2015, 14:31:34
IEMs under < $200 are so hard to pick... so many choices.

Anyone know of a good IEM ~150-200 range that has great midrange vocals, but does not skimp on treble or sub-bass? Neutral mid-bass is fine with me (HD650 satisfies me for that) but I'm specifically looking for good vocals and good extension. For reference, I think Shure SE215 is not detailed and *too* bassy.

I think the Sony BHA-3 fits in your description. It has been replaced for newer models but I remember you could still buy them form the US Sony shop website.

tanks! will take a look at some reviews  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 28 July 2015, 15:16:52
Has anyone spent any time with the newer denon mm400 or the blue mo-fi?  Looking at them or the momentum m2 or mdr-1a.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Ryukuxyz on Wed, 29 July 2015, 20:45:23
Not over-ears, but I bought a pair of Sony XBA-H1 earphones a few days back.  Got em for 40 bucks refurbished at Amazon.  Really really impressed with the sound quality, especially for $40.  Would recommend to people looking to pick up cheap earbuds.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 29 July 2015, 20:50:19
Would recommend to people looking to pick up cheap earbuds in-ear monitors.

Sorry, not calling you out directly, I'm just a bit pedantic when it comes to the difference in meaning. :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Axollott on Wed, 29 July 2015, 22:11:00
IEMs under < $200 are so hard to pick... so many choices.

Anyone know of a good IEM ~150-200 range that has great midrange vocals, but does not skimp on treble or sub-bass? Neutral mid-bass is fine with me (HD650 satisfies me for that) but I'm specifically looking for good vocals and good extension. For reference, I think Shure SE215 is not detailed and *too* bassy.

I think the Sony BHA-3 fits in your description. It has been replaced for newer models but I remember you could still buy them form the US Sony shop website.

tanks! will take a look at some reviews  :)
Sorry, it's XBA-3. My bad.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 29 July 2015, 22:24:35
I have finally decided that I am happy with what I have lol no more searching for that constant upgrade.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 29 July 2015, 22:29:33
I have finally decided that I am happy with what I have lol no more searching for that constant upgrade.

It is a relieving feeling.  Happened when I got my K10s and then hit me again when the 560s came out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 29 July 2015, 22:34:44
Tried the blue mo-fi at fry's today.  I think I'm gunna be happy back in mid-fi for a while.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 29 July 2015, 22:36:22
I have finally decided that I am happy with what I have lol no more searching for that constant upgrade.

It is a relieving feeling.  Happened when I got my K10s and then hit me again when the 560s came out.

Yeah the only thing that could potentially tempt me is a portable amp for my se846. I am learning to appreciate the HD650 WA7 pairing so much more.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 29 July 2015, 23:45:05
I have finally decided that I am happy with what I have lol no more searching for that constant upgrade.

It is a relieving feeling.  Happened when I got my K10s and then hit me again when the 560s came out.


Damn you binge!!!!  >:D  You have my endgame iems and headphones!!  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: genkidama on Thu, 30 July 2015, 03:09:06
Am I right here for asking about a headphones/headsets I bought?

If yes:
I recently bought the A151P 2nd Gen from MEEElectronics and am wondering right now. When I listen to mp3's and flac's I hear a static "noise", but only in-between songs or if the song itself is slow. When I hit the stop button the noise is also cancelled or rather just gone. Do I hit the play button again I can hear the noise again. If I'm correct I think the static noise varies in regard to the songs' sound. So if the sound goes up the static noise gets up as well (alhtough not as much as you might think).
Is this normal?

For comparison I have a very old pair of (I think) Bose SoundTrue On-Ear headphones (they're like 4yrs old) and with them I didn't hear such a static noise (also tested with mp3 and flac files).

I only hear the static noise with the A151P when the songs quieter or when the songs are changing. I guess the other times the song just lays their sound over the static noise.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 30 July 2015, 10:36:52
Am I right here for asking about a headphones/headsets I bought?

If yes:
I recently bought the A151P 2nd Gen from MEEElectronics and am wondering right now. When I listen to mp3's and flac's I hear a static "noise", but only in-between songs or if the song itself is slow. When I hit the stop button the noise is also cancelled or rather just gone. Do I hit the play button again I can hear the noise again. If I'm correct I think the static noise varies in regard to the songs' sound. So if the sound goes up the static noise gets up as well (alhtough not as much as you might think).
Is this normal?

For comparison I have a very old pair of (I think) Bose SoundTrue On-Ear headphones (they're like 4yrs old) and with them I didn't hear such a static noise (also tested with mp3 and flac files).

I only hear the static noise with the A151P when the songs quieter or when the songs are changing. I guess the other times the song just lays their sound over the static noise.

Sounds like hiss from your music player.

Even my Nobles have that static when being used on my phone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: genkidama on Thu, 30 July 2015, 14:09:01
Sounds like hiss from your music player.

Even my Nobles have that static when being used on my phone.

With Nobles you mean the company where you can get amplifiers and stuff?
So it's more of a phone issue then a headphone issue?

Is there something I could do to improve it?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Thu, 30 July 2015, 14:13:10
If I'm correct I think the static noise varies in regard to the songs' sound. So if the sound goes up the static noise gets up as well (alhtough not as much as you might think).
Is this normal?

For comparison I have a very old pair of (I think) Bose SoundTrue On-Ear headphones (they're like 4yrs old) and with them I didn't hear such a static noise (also tested with mp3 and flac files).

I only hear the static noise with the A151P when the songs quieter or when the songs are changing. I guess the other times the song just lays their sound over the static noise.

Good headphones do a great job of discerning ****, whether it is poor mastering or a noisy output signal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 30 July 2015, 14:15:20
Sounds like hiss from your music player.

Even my Nobles have that static when being used on my phone.

With Nobles you mean the company where you can get amplifiers and stuff?
So it's more of a phone issue then a headphone issue?

Is there something I could do to improve it?

No, the company that makes the custom IEMs
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 30 July 2015, 14:20:49
Sounds like hiss from your music player.

Even my Nobles have that static when being used on my phone.

With Nobles you mean the company where you can get amplifiers and stuff?
So it's more of a phone issue then a headphone issue?

Is there something I could do to improve it?

Yes, spend all your time looking for a source with a low enough noise floor as to not produce static in your sensitive headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 30 July 2015, 14:31:06
Sounds like hiss from your music player.

Even my Nobles have that static when being used on my phone.

With Nobles you mean the company where you can get amplifiers and stuff?
So it's more of a phone issue then a headphone issue?

Is there something I could do to improve it?

Yes, spend all your time looking for a source with a low enough noise floor as to not produce static in your sensitive headphones.

In simple terms, get a higher quality source.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 July 2015, 15:02:15
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Thu, 30 July 2015, 15:05:41
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 July 2015, 15:07:39
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 30 July 2015, 15:15:34
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

It's quite cost-effective as well, it can run fullsize cans to ear-splitting volume levels, driving my HD650 quite well. (I'm of the school that I don't really notice much in the way of amplifier differences - if it drives it loud enough, I'm happy).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Thu, 30 July 2015, 15:27:22
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

Okay, I'll bite when my next paycheck clears.  :))  RIP new DAP fund
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 July 2015, 15:36:54
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

Okay, I'll bite when my next paycheck clears.  :))  RIP new DAP fund

I've given up on DAPs.  The x5 is affordable, but for the cost of a C5D and a single phone app... I can listen to great quality music.

Just remember when you order to request the gain reduced on it's normal setting so it is IEM friendly and then to have the gain boost set to 1x.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Thu, 30 July 2015, 15:50:10
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

Okay, I'll bite when my next paycheck clears.  :))  RIP new DAP fund

I've given up on DAPs.  The x5 is affordable, but for the cost of a C5D and a single phone app... I can listen to great quality music.

Just remember when you order to request the gain reduced on it's normal setting so it is IEM friendly and then to have the gain boost set to 1x.


Good to know.  Thanks for the tip  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 30 July 2015, 16:24:36
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

Okay, I'll bite when my next paycheck clears.  :))  RIP new DAP fund

I've given up on DAPs.  The x5 is affordable, but for the cost of a C5D and a single phone app... I can listen to great quality music.

Just remember when you order to request the gain reduced on it's normal setting so it is IEM friendly and then to have the gain boost set to 1x.

wait, you can customize c5ds gain? i thought that was only o2+odac combo. can't find the customization option on their site for the c5d...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 July 2015, 16:48:58
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

Okay, I'll bite when my next paycheck clears.  :))  RIP new DAP fund

I've given up on DAPs.  The x5 is affordable, but for the cost of a C5D and a single phone app... I can listen to great quality music.

Just remember when you order to request the gain reduced on it's normal setting so it is IEM friendly and then to have the gain boost set to 1x.

wait, you can customize c5ds gain? i thought that was only o2+odac combo. can't find the customization option on their site for the c5d...

You have to e-mail them.  They told me it can be programmed in before they ship it out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Thu, 30 July 2015, 17:16:45
3 months of Tidal for free:

http://go.tidal.com/us/reg/US2000/usTIDAL6VBk4gGTICJIMMY/PREMIUM
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 30 July 2015, 17:23:18
3 months of Tidal for free:

http://go.tidal.com/us/reg/US2000/usTIDAL6VBk4gGTICJIMMY/PREMIUM

They give a free 3 months online but I go see them at a show (or at least someone they're partnering with) and they only give me a card for 1 month
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 30 July 2015, 20:11:27
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

Okay, I'll bite when my next paycheck clears.  :))  RIP new DAP fund

I've given up on DAPs.  The x5 is affordable, but for the cost of a C5D and a single phone app... I can listen to great quality music.

Just remember when you order to request the gain reduced on it's normal setting so it is IEM friendly and then to have the gain boost set to 1x.

wait, you can customize c5ds gain? i thought that was only o2+odac combo. can't find the customization option on their site for the c5d...

You have to e-mail them.  They told me it can be programmed in before they ship it out.

darn; ah well, 2.3x seems plenty fine for noise floor anyway.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 July 2015, 22:35:27
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

Okay, I'll bite when my next paycheck clears.  :))  RIP new DAP fund

I've given up on DAPs.  The x5 is affordable, but for the cost of a C5D and a single phone app... I can listen to great quality music.

Just remember when you order to request the gain reduced on it's normal setting so it is IEM friendly and then to have the gain boost set to 1x.

wait, you can customize c5ds gain? i thought that was only o2+odac combo. can't find the customization option on their site for the c5d...

You have to e-mail them.  They told me it can be programmed in before they ship it out.

darn; ah well, 2.3x seems plenty fine for noise floor anyway.

It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 30 July 2015, 22:36:35
JDS Labs C5D is great for IEMs so long as you match the gain to the IEM.  :thumb:


I really want to jump on the C5/C5D, but a part of me is still wondering if Robert is going to come through with the Arrow 5TX

Dunno who this Robert is but unless it's like... THE BEST DEAL EVER I'd just grab a C5D.  It's fantastic.  No ragrats.

Okay, I'll bite when my next paycheck clears.  :))  RIP new DAP fund

I've given up on DAPs.  The x5 is affordable, but for the cost of a C5D and a single phone app... I can listen to great quality music.

Just remember when you order to request the gain reduced on it's normal setting so it is IEM friendly and then to have the gain boost set to 1x.

wait, you can customize c5ds gain? i thought that was only o2+odac combo. can't find the customization option on their site for the c5d...

You have to e-mail them.  They told me it can be programmed in before they ship it out.

darn; ah well, 2.3x seems plenty fine for noise floor anyway.

It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 30 July 2015, 22:37:33
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 30 July 2015, 23:50:07
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.


Binge, did you ever get a chance to try any cheaper IEMs that you could compare to the k10s? Currently have shure se535s and was wondering about some of the cheaper noble options..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 30 July 2015, 23:58:06
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.


Binge, did you ever get a chance to try any cheaper IEMs that you could compare to the k10s? Currently have shure se535s and was wondering about some of the cheaper noble options..

Just save up and go full blownsies
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 31 July 2015, 00:18:42
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.


Binge, did you ever get a chance to try any cheaper IEMs that you could compare to the k10s? Currently have shure se535s and was wondering about some of the cheaper noble options..

>has tried 535s and owns the K10
>doesn't get asked

 :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 31 July 2015, 00:36:56
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.


Binge, did you ever get a chance to try any cheaper IEMs that you could compare to the k10s? Currently have shure se535s and was wondering about some of the cheaper noble options..
My ears and universal iems do not mix.  I went custom to overcome my tiny tiny tiny ear canals.  Going that route I went full retard.  No regrets B-)

Glitched will have better input.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 31 July 2015, 00:48:10
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.


Binge, did you ever get a chance to try any cheaper IEMs that you could compare to the k10s? Currently have shure se535s and was wondering about some of the cheaper noble options..
My ears and universal iems do not mix.  I went custom to overcome my tiny tiny tiny ear canals.  Going that route I went full retard.  No regrets B-)

Glitched will have better input.

I know exactly how you feel about the Custom art though.

That's quite a bit of money that you'll never get back on art that you don't even see while you're listening to them
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Fri, 31 July 2015, 01:32:27
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.


Binge, did you ever get a chance to try any cheaper IEMs that you could compare to the k10s? Currently have shure se535s and was wondering about some of the cheaper noble options..
My ears and universal iems do not mix.  I went custom to overcome my tiny tiny tiny ear canals.  Going that route I went full retard.  No regrets B-)

Glitched will have better input.

I know exactly how you feel about the Custom art though.

That's quite a bit of money that you'll never get back on art that you don't even see while you're listening to them


Alright glitched spill the beans! I use my se535s usually for at least 5 hours a day while studying or doign lab work. I like their sound but not their comfort. Got recommendations for a cheaper ciem that has equal or better sound? As ideal as K10s are, I cannot afford them right now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 31 July 2015, 02:02:30
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.


Binge, did you ever get a chance to try any cheaper IEMs that you could compare to the k10s? Currently have shure se535s and was wondering about some of the cheaper noble options..
My ears and universal iems do not mix.  I went custom to overcome my tiny tiny tiny ear canals.  Going that route I went full retard.  No regrets B-)

Glitched will have better input.

I know exactly how you feel about the Custom art though.

That's quite a bit of money that you'll never get back on art that you don't even see while you're listening to them


Alright glitched spill the beans! I use my se535s usually for at least 5 hours a day while studying or doign lab work. I like their sound but not their comfort. Got recommendations for a cheaper ciem that has equal or better sound? As ideal as K10s are, I cannot afford them right now.
I found the mids on the se535 to be sublime with decent low end and very sharp and sibilant highs.

I honestly loved them if not for the sibilance.

The K10 on the other hand are a bit weak in the treble region. Kind of dull actually. The sub bass is impactful and present unlike most IEMs. Mids aren't as smooth and sublime but still rich. The sound feels like it aims to be better for rock and electronic but not particularly good for the type of music I listen to. Though as an on the go it's really solid (I compare mainly to full sized headphones).

As for options the lower end nobles supposedly have much different sound signatures to the K10s so if you want something richer and more like the 535 maybe one of those will actually be preferable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 31 July 2015, 09:05:18
Can confirm the highs are rather silky almost to a fault.  Paired with the C5D and I could hear everything, all sounds accounted for, but nothing ethereal or sublime like good estats.  I need to stress the part about all sounds accounted for... nothing was faint, but the rest of the signature was so impactful it makes the highs seem dull in comparison.  All bad words.  They still leave me quite impressed.  GL1TCH3D found great words to describe them, but I want to say it's like that and still very different from a veiled sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 31 July 2015, 11:24:47
Can confirm the highs are rather silky almost to a fault.  Paired with the C5D and I could hear everything, all sounds accounted for, but nothing ethereal or sublime like good estats.  I need to stress the part about all sounds accounted for... nothing was faint, but the rest of the signature was so impactful it makes the highs seem dull in comparison.  All bad words.  They still leave me quite impressed.  GL1TCH3D found great words to describe them, but I want to say it's like that and still very different from a veiled sound.

I find it's that the highs aren't sharp (resolved) enough. It's like the treble equivalent of a loose bass.

Also the symbal crashes are extremely dull
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 31 July 2015, 11:36:02
Can confirm the highs are rather silky almost to a fault.  Paired with the C5D and I could hear everything, all sounds accounted for, but nothing ethereal or sublime like good estats.  I need to stress the part about all sounds accounted for... nothing was faint, but the rest of the signature was so impactful it makes the highs seem dull in comparison.  All bad words.  They still leave me quite impressed.  GL1TCH3D found great words to describe them, but I want to say it's like that and still very different from a veiled sound.

I find it's that the highs aren't sharp (resolved) enough. It's like the treble equivalent of a loose bass.

Also the symbal crashes are extremely dull

I'd get that looked at... my crashes sound reference.  The snares have a bit more low end impact than my 560s, and the low end just hnnnnggggg.  Like I said it sounds more laid back than the rest of the spectrum, and while its definitely not estat quality I would say the treble is on par with some of the best planars and dynamics.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 31 July 2015, 12:54:07
Can confirm the highs are rather silky almost to a fault.  Paired with the C5D and I could hear everything, all sounds accounted for, but nothing ethereal or sublime like good estats.  I need to stress the part about all sounds accounted for... nothing was faint, but the rest of the signature was so impactful it makes the highs seem dull in comparison.  All bad words.  They still leave me quite impressed.  GL1TCH3D found great words to describe them, but I want to say it's like that and still very different from a veiled sound.

I find it's that the highs aren't sharp (resolved) enough. It's like the treble equivalent of a loose bass.

Also the symbal crashes are extremely dull

I'd get that looked at... my crashes sound reference.  The snares have a bit more low end impact than my 560s, and the low end just hnnnnggggg.  Like I said it sounds more laid back than the rest of the spectrum, and while its definitely not estat quality I would say the treble is on par with some of the best planars and dynamics.

I never found planars to have that sweet treble. Usually I think of electrostatics when I think of a sweet treble.

What source are you using?

I have to send them in again (for the 4th time) so I'll ask them to check that but I know others mentioned stuff like the crashes being dulled. It seems like the treble was dulled to be more relaxing and more pleasing to people who are sensitive to sharper treble
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 31 July 2015, 13:02:56
Can confirm the highs are rather silky almost to a fault.  Paired with the C5D and I could hear everything, all sounds accounted for, but nothing ethereal or sublime like good estats.  I need to stress the part about all sounds accounted for... nothing was faint, but the rest of the signature was so impactful it makes the highs seem dull in comparison.  All bad words.  They still leave me quite impressed.  GL1TCH3D found great words to describe them, but I want to say it's like that and still very different from a veiled sound.

I find it's that the highs aren't sharp (resolved) enough. It's like the treble equivalent of a loose bass.

Also the symbal crashes are extremely dull

I'd get that looked at... my crashes sound reference.  The snares have a bit more low end impact than my 560s, and the low end just hnnnnggggg.  Like I said it sounds more laid back than the rest of the spectrum, and while its definitely not estat quality I would say the treble is on par with some of the best planars and dynamics.

I never found planars to have that sweet treble. Usually I think of electrostatics when I think of a sweet treble.

What source are you using?

I have to send them in again (for the 4th time) so I'll ask them to check that but I know others mentioned stuff like the crashes being dulled. It seems like the treble was dulled to be more relaxing and more pleasing to people who are sensitive to sharper treble

I use a C5D @ 1x gain.  Generally used with my GSIII running USB Audio Player.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Fri, 31 July 2015, 14:01:24
It's silent as can be, the issue is that if you use IEMs you'll blow your ears out with the standard 2.3x gain.
i use mine with iems. no problem at all...

The K10s have ridiculous sensitivity.


Binge, did you ever get a chance to try any cheaper IEMs that you could compare to the k10s? Currently have shure se535s and was wondering about some of the cheaper noble options..
My ears and universal iems do not mix.  I went custom to overcome my tiny tiny tiny ear canals.  Going that route I went full retard.  No regrets B-)

Glitched will have better input.

I know exactly how you feel about the Custom art though.

That's quite a bit of money that you'll never get back on art that you don't even see while you're listening to them


Alright glitched spill the beans! I use my se535s usually for at least 5 hours a day while studying or doign lab work. I like their sound but not their comfort. Got recommendations for a cheaper ciem that has equal or better sound? As ideal as K10s are, I cannot afford them right now.

I hear the Noble Savant is supposed to be quite good, like "baby" K10s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 01 August 2015, 09:08:35
Can confirm the highs are rather silky almost to a fault.  Paired with the C5D and I could hear everything, all sounds accounted for, but nothing ethereal or sublime like good estats.  I need to stress the part about all sounds accounted for... nothing was faint, but the rest of the signature was so impactful it makes the highs seem dull in comparison.  All bad words.  They still leave me quite impressed.  GL1TCH3D found great words to describe them, but I want to say it's like that and still very different from a veiled sound.

I find it's that the highs aren't sharp (resolved) enough. It's like the treble equivalent of a loose bass.

Also the symbal crashes are extremely dull

I'd get that looked at... my crashes sound reference.  The snares have a bit more low end impact than my 560s, and the low end just hnnnnggggg.  Like I said it sounds more laid back than the rest of the spectrum, and while its definitely not estat quality I would say the treble is on par with some of the best planars and dynamics.

I never found planars to have that sweet treble. Usually I think of electrostatics when I think of a sweet treble.

What source are you using?

I have to send them in again (for the 4th time) so I'll ask them to check that but I know others mentioned stuff like the crashes being dulled. It seems like the treble was dulled to be more relaxing and more pleasing to people who are sensitive to sharper treble

I use a C5D @ 1x gain.  Generally used with my GSIII running USB Audio Player.

never tried that to be honest.

Actually never even read anything about it. I use the AK120 (before it was stolen) and now the AK240

Maybe I should try another player.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: meow a cat on Sun, 02 August 2015, 08:05:11
I'm looking for an amp/dac to go with a pair of Beyerdynamic DT880 250ohm headphones, but I'm a noob and I need help picking something out. I'd prefer to keep it around $100-150CAD if possible. I'm currently in on the drop for the Objective 2 amplifier on MassDrop, but I'm trying to decide if I should stay in or not. If I spend my budget on just the amp, the music quality is probably going to be crappy running everything through my motherboards on-board soundcard. I only have a couple days to decide whether or not I want the O2.

Anyone have any suggestions for me? Something portable would be a nice bonus, but it will be on my desk 95% of the time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Sun, 02 August 2015, 08:20:45
I'm looking for an amp/dac to go with a pair of Beyerdynamic DT880 250ohm headphones, but I'm a noob and I need help picking something out. I'd prefer to keep it around $100-150CAD if possible. I'm currently in on the drop for the Objective 2 amplifier on MassDrop, but I'm trying to decide if I should stay in or not. If I spend my budget on just the amp, the music quality is probably going to be crappy running everything through my motherboards on-board soundcard. I only have a couple days to decide whether or not I want the O2.

Anyone have any suggestions for me? Something portable would be a nice bonus, but it will be on my desk 95% of the time.
Fiio E10K (http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e10k-usb-dac-and-headphone-amplifier) should do the trick
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: meow a cat on Sun, 02 August 2015, 08:34:32
I'm looking for an amp/dac to go with a pair of Beyerdynamic DT880 250ohm headphones, but I'm a noob and I need help picking something out. I'd prefer to keep it around $100-150CAD if possible. I'm currently in on the drop for the Objective 2 amplifier on MassDrop, but I'm trying to decide if I should stay in or not. If I spend my budget on just the amp, the music quality is probably going to be crappy running everything through my motherboards on-board soundcard. I only have a couple days to decide whether or not I want the O2.

Anyone have any suggestions for me? Something portable would be a nice bonus, but it will be on my desk 95% of the time.
Fiio E10K (http://www.head-fi.org/products/fiio-e10k-usb-dac-and-headphone-amplifier) should do the trick

I was looking at that one, it's right around the right price range, but I think the specs say it's only rated for 150 ohm headphones. I like my music loud, do you think it will give me enough power to turn my headphones way up if I want to? I know the O2 would definitely power them, but then I'd probably be stuck listening to motherboard soundcard hiss.  :))

Thanks for your help!  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 02 August 2015, 10:20:19
I've told many a times that my source (amp and dac) was lacking, so I decided to upgrade them. I wasn't prepared to throw a ton of money into them, so I ended up was what I consider to be the best performance/price components I could lay my hands on......Gustard H10 headamp and X12 DAC.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/y_zpsl1mrmsao.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 02 August 2015, 11:49:42
I've told many a times that my source (amp and dac) was lacking, so I decided to upgrade them. I wasn't prepared to throw a ton of money into them, so I ended up was what I consider to be the best performance/price components I could lay my hands on......Gustard H10 headamp and X12 DAC.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/z_zpsgdujxype.jpg)


...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sun, 02 August 2015, 13:58:49
ONLY $400 amp..  if you are going to talk about low cost stuff I wouldn't start that high >_<
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 02 August 2015, 14:55:34
ONLY $400 amp..  if you are going to talk about low cost stuff I wouldn't start that high >_<

People on headfi in the AK240 thread call the AK240 good value...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sun, 02 August 2015, 15:18:43
ONLY $400 amp..  if you are going to talk about low cost stuff I wouldn't start that high >_<
People on headfi in the AK240 thread call the AK240 good value...
Because it's head-fi and most of these people have a problem.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 02 August 2015, 15:22:49
ONLY $400 amp..  if you are going to talk about low cost stuff I wouldn't start that high >_<
People on headfi in the AK240 thread call the AK240 good value...
Because it's head-fi and most of these people have a problem.

On the opposite end there are people on reddit that feel $100 headphones are high end =S
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 02 August 2015, 15:24:18
ONLY $400 amp..  if you are going to talk about low cost stuff I wouldn't start that high >_<
People on headfi in the AK240 thread call the AK240 good value...
Because it's head-fi and most of these people have a problem.

On the opposite end there are people on reddit that feel $100 headphones are high end =S

Because it's reddit and most of these people have a problem.

(http://i.imgur.com/GgcAKWv.png)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 02 August 2015, 19:21:04
To be totally fair we all have ****ing problems spending money on these things.

It's only an actual *issue* however if you are spending beyond your means, like taking credit card loans or stuff.

That being said I cannot see why those head fiers blow a thousand on amps just to get synergy. Maybe there is a difference... but I think its better to just buy a new headphone at that point.

Or just EQ. A lot of those audiophiles have an allergy to digital solutions.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 02 August 2015, 19:36:19
To be totally fair we all have ****ing problems spending money on these things.

It's only an actual *issue* however if you are spending beyond your means, like taking credit card loans or stuff.

That being said I cannot see why those head fiers blow a thousand on amps just to get synergy. Maybe there is a difference... but I think its better to just buy a new headphone at that point.

Or just EQ. A lot of those audiophiles have an allergy to digital solutions.

I don't think a lot of the vocal people that say things like "I want to hear what the artist intended" or "I want to hear it how the producer did on the board" know how or what to really do. 

BTW, more people need to praise and use the x2.  I'm not going to be bold enough to say they're the best thing I've used to listen to music, but for the price?  Yeah, they're legit great and do exactly what I was missing from other popular mid-fi things like the hd6x0, dt880 and akg open stuff.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 02 August 2015, 19:44:54
To be totally fair we all have ****ing problems spending money on these things.

It's only an actual *issue* however if you are spending beyond your means, like taking credit card loans or stuff.

That being said I cannot see why those head fiers blow a thousand on amps just to get synergy. Maybe there is a difference... but I think its better to just buy a new headphone at that point.

Or just EQ. A lot of those audiophiles have an allergy to digital solutions.

I don't think a lot of the vocal people that say things like "I want to hear what the artist intended" or "I want to hear it how the producer did on the board" know how or what to really do. 

BTW, more people need to praise and use the x2.  I'm not going to be bold enough to say they're the best thing I've used to listen to music, but for the price?  Yeah, they're legit great and do exactly what I was missing from other popular mid-fi things like the hd6x0, dt880 and akg open stuff.
In my limited experience and subjective opinion, if you want to hear what the artist intended, you need to shell out a mini-fortune to buy studio monitors that measure ruler flat.

Then you pay even more money to develop a perfect room free of acoustic imperfection. Then you play the original wav file. Then you declare bankruptcy, and possibly feel endless regret when you realize you preferred a coloured sound after all - the so called "fun" sound that you mention, which could have been had by just buying an X2.

All these audiophile buzzwords of "natural, neutral, etc." are not actually equivalent to what, in my opinion, is the true measure of hifi: transparency and accuracy. What sounds "natural" to one sounds "bright" or "sterile" to another. To me, and I could be totally wrong, if you want true accuracy, do as I said above with studio monitors.

Otherwise just pick headphones that look/sound pleasing and adjust your brain to the sound until you like it. Then spend your money on wiser things. [/rant]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 02 August 2015, 19:46:03
To be totally fair we all have ****ing problems spending money on these things.

It's only an actual *issue* however if you are spending beyond your means, like taking credit card loans or stuff.

That being said I cannot see why those head fiers blow a thousand on amps just to get synergy. Maybe there is a difference... but I think its better to just buy a new headphone at that point.

Or just EQ. A lot of those audiophiles have an allergy to digital solutions.

In my experience not all headphones like EQ and there are still kind of "gaps" in the high end market for sound signatures.

I loved the mids on the W3000anv but the bass and treble were quite weak. However that wasn't the fault of the driver but the pads used that muffled certain frequencies and therefore was not helped by EQ at all.

However the TH900 did fantastic with EQ

(Dammit TJ send me those TH900!)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 02 August 2015, 20:05:39
To be totally fair we all have ****ing problems spending money on these things.

It's only an actual *issue* however if you are spending beyond your means, like taking credit card loans or stuff.

That being said I cannot see why those head fiers blow a thousand on amps just to get synergy. Maybe there is a difference... but I think its better to just buy a new headphone at that point.

Or just EQ. A lot of those audiophiles have an allergy to digital solutions.

In my experience not all headphones like EQ and there are still kind of "gaps" in the high end market for sound signatures.

I loved the mids on the W3000anv but the bass and treble were quite weak. However that wasn't the fault of the driver but the pads used that muffled certain frequencies and therefore was not helped by EQ at all.

However the TH900 did fantastic with EQ

(Dammit TJ send me those TH900!)

It's a super easy process for this to happen, lol.  (They respond brilliantly to an EQ, so did the lcd-xc.  Most of the hifiman stuff?  Not so much)

I agree that there are things that take to an eq better than others, too.  That said, knowing limitations of the reproduction gear, how to work around them and actually knowing what to tweak to get a sound "Right" is a lost art that's been replaced with "just buy more/different stuff".  I, admittedly, am also guilty of this as much as any of the people I refer to when I say this, but I also know I'm treble sensitive and purchase and work with that.

Buzzwords are the quickest way to get me to rage and stop reading a review.  Tell me, with clear words, what you hear or don't hear out of a device. Tell me why you do or don't like this.  I know me and what I want out of a headphone to be able to parse that information into a knowledgeable purchase.  Also, exaggeration of differences to sell other people on why you spent $1500 on a whatever is a root cause of this buzzword crap.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 02 August 2015, 20:24:13
ONLY $400 amp..  if you are going to talk about low cost stuff I wouldn't start that high >_<
That's the thing, in my neck of tthe woods, I've been criticized for wasting my money on 'low end' gear like the Gustard. To them, if it doesn't hit 4 figures pricewise, it's a low end component. I've learnt to ignore these types, these elitists who believe thousands spent on a single gear is a 'good buy'.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 03 August 2015, 01:06:10
To be totally fair we all have ****ing problems spending money on these things.

It's only an actual *issue* however if you are spending beyond your means, like taking credit card loans or stuff.

That being said I cannot see why those head fiers blow a thousand on amps just to get synergy. Maybe there is a difference... but I think its better to just buy a new headphone at that point.

Or just EQ. A lot of those audiophiles have an allergy to digital solutions.

In my experience not all headphones like EQ and there are still kind of "gaps" in the high end market for sound signatures.

I loved the mids on the W3000anv but the bass and treble were quite weak. However that wasn't the fault of the driver but the pads used that muffled certain frequencies and therefore was not helped by EQ at all.

However the TH900 did fantastic with EQ

(Dammit TJ send me those TH900!)

It's a super easy process for this to happen, lol.  (They respond brilliantly to an EQ, so did the lcd-xc.  Most of the hifiman stuff?  Not so much)

I agree that there are things that take to an eq better than others, too.  That said, knowing limitations of the reproduction gear, how to work around them and actually knowing what to tweak to get a sound "Right" is a lost art that's been replaced with "just buy more/different stuff".  I, admittedly, am also guilty of this as much as any of the people I refer to when I say this, but I also know I'm treble sensitive and purchase and work with that.

Buzzwords are the quickest way to get me to rage and stop reading a review.  Tell me, with clear words, what you hear or don't hear out of a device. Tell me why you do or don't like this.  I know me and what I want out of a headphone to be able to parse that information into a knowledgeable purchase.  Also, exaggeration of differences to sell other people on why you spent $1500 on a whatever is a root cause of this buzzword crap.

Sometimes the tweak isn't too feasible. For the W3000anv it meant changing the pads. The only other pads that were known to fit were the alpha pads (tried them and they just increased the treble reflections while fixing the bass) and the Fostex TH600/900 pads which are not sold separately.

It was unfortunate =(

I agree that a lot can be solved with some tweaking and proper EQ. Though that really only affects the sound signature and not the fact that maybe the soundstage is very limited on X pair of headphones or the bass is loose and muddy on Y pair (although that could just be the dampening / baffle)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 03 August 2015, 01:46:47
To be totally fair we all have ****ing problems spending money on these things.

It's only an actual *issue* however if you are spending beyond your means, like taking credit card loans or stuff.

That being said I cannot see why those head fiers blow a thousand on amps just to get synergy. Maybe there is a difference... but I think its better to just buy a new headphone at that point.

Or just EQ. A lot of those audiophiles have an allergy to digital solutions.

In my experience not all headphones like EQ and there are still kind of "gaps" in the high end market for sound signatures.

I loved the mids on the W3000anv but the bass and treble were quite weak. However that wasn't the fault of the driver but the pads used that muffled certain frequencies and therefore was not helped by EQ at all.

However the TH900 did fantastic with EQ

(Dammit TJ send me those TH900!)

It's a super easy process for this to happen, lol.  (They respond brilliantly to an EQ, so did the lcd-xc.  Most of the hifiman stuff?  Not so much)

I agree that there are things that take to an eq better than others, too.  That said, knowing limitations of the reproduction gear, how to work around them and actually knowing what to tweak to get a sound "Right" is a lost art that's been replaced with "just buy more/different stuff".  I, admittedly, am also guilty of this as much as any of the people I refer to when I say this, but I also know I'm treble sensitive and purchase and work with that.

Buzzwords are the quickest way to get me to rage and stop reading a review.  Tell me, with clear words, what you hear or don't hear out of a device. Tell me why you do or don't like this.  I know me and what I want out of a headphone to be able to parse that information into a knowledgeable purchase.  Also, exaggeration of differences to sell other people on why you spent $1500 on a whatever is a root cause of this buzzword crap.

Sometimes the tweak isn't too feasible. For the W3000anv it meant changing the pads. The only other pads that were known to fit were the alpha pads (tried them and they just increased the treble reflections while fixing the bass) and the Fostex TH600/900 pads which are not sold separately.

It was unfortunate =(

I agree that a lot can be solved with some tweaking and proper EQ. Though that really only affects the sound signature and not the fact that maybe the soundstage is very limited on X pair of headphones or the bass is loose and muddy on Y pair (although that could just be the dampening / baffle)

I'm assuming the lawton pads didn't help?  I know I've seen a few of the th pads floating around as well. Edit - found them on full compass for $34 a piece

And yes, there are just some things like physical parts, interferences and engineering that EQing can't affect. Putting low end into an senn hd headphone comes to mind.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 04 August 2015, 18:13:50
A bit of a shot in the dark but has anyone heard the z7 and pm-3 to do any comparisons?  I'm thinking one or the other of those for a mid-fi closed option.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 04 August 2015, 22:19:57
A bit of a shot in the dark but has anyone heard the z7 and pm-3 to do any comparisons?  I'm thinking one or the other of those for a mid-fi closed option.

The Z7 was awful but I thought you had one already and sold it?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 04 August 2015, 22:34:55
A bit of a shot in the dark but has anyone heard the z7 and pm-3 to do any comparisons?  I'm thinking one or the other of those for a mid-fi closed option.

The Z7 was awful but I thought you had one already and sold it?

I did.  I didn't like it compared to the th900, but dunno if the same would be true compared to the pm-3.  It looks like it might be, just my sony fanboi clawing and scratching for a chance to make the decision.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 05 August 2015, 00:10:37
A bit of a shot in the dark but has anyone heard the z7 and pm-3 to do any comparisons?  I'm thinking one or the other of those for a mid-fi closed option.

The Z7 was awful but I thought you had one already and sold it?

I did.  I didn't like it compared to the th900, but dunno if the same would be true compared to the pm-3.  It looks like it might be, just my sony fanboi clawing and scratching for a chance to make the decision.

wtf just get pm3 scrub
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 05 August 2015, 09:54:25
A bit of a shot in the dark but has anyone heard the z7 and pm-3 to do any comparisons?  I'm thinking one or the other of those for a mid-fi closed option.

The Z7 was awful but I thought you had one already and sold it?

I did.  I didn't like it compared to the th900, but dunno if the same would be true compared to the pm-3.  It looks like it might be, just my sony fanboi clawing and scratching for a chance to make the decision.

To be fair the Z7 is one of the worst things I've heard in the $300+ price range (and to think that the original price was $1000?)

I heard rumours that they'd be releasing something bigger and better. I hope it's a successor to the R10 but frankly the Z7 was lousy. I'm glad I didn't buy in on the hype
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 05 August 2015, 12:48:39
Seems more 'mid-fi' to go with your open headphones and some iems and just skip closed backs all together :o
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 05 August 2015, 12:50:27
Seems more 'mid-fi' to go with your open headphones and some iems and just skip closed backs all together :o

To be completely fair, this is a better idea considering how good the x2 are at doing what I want them to do right out of the box.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 05 August 2015, 14:14:54
Glad you are liking them as much as I am! ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 05 August 2015, 21:19:21
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/final-audio-design-sonorous-vi-headphone

Cmon TJ.

I know you want to bite
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 05 August 2015, 23:15:53
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/final-audio-design-sonorous-vi-headphone

Cmon TJ.

I know you want to bite

Actually, I've been intrigued with the pandoras for a while now.  The price is just a little too steep for my current budget preferences.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 05 August 2015, 23:33:33
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/final-audio-design-sonorous-vi-headphone

Cmon TJ.

I know you want to bite

Actually, I've been intrigued with the pandoras for a while now.  The price is just a little too steep for my current budget preferences.

I'm much more interested in the sonorous X though since I like dabbling in the higher end market more.

Although I was severely disappointed in the FIBASS
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 06 August 2015, 12:53:28
http://www.head-fi.org/t/753381/head-fi-meet-downtown-montreal-2015-august-29th-30th/30#post_11816705

Calling Montrealers!

Or anyone willing to make the trip

I can bring one of my keyboards too
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Tue, 11 August 2015, 03:18:25
Anyone unimpressed/unhappy with the AKG K702? I just got mine today, and I have to admit I'm kind of unimpressed. I have a Sennheiser HD-650, and it has waaaaaaaaaaay more treble detail than the K702. In comparison the treble in the K702 sounds more rough, grainy, and thin. Overall I'm just kind of "meh" about the headphones.

Anyone else have the same impressions of the AKG? Or is it just me?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 11 August 2015, 08:33:13
Anyone unimpressed/unhappy with the AKG K702? I just got mine today, and I have to admit I'm kind of unimpressed. I have a Sennheiser HD-650, and it has waaaaaaaaaaay more treble detail than the K702. In comparison the treble in the K702 sounds more rough, grainy, and thin. Overall I'm just kind of "meh" about the headphones.

Anyone else have the same impressions of the AKG? Or is it just me?

HD650 having more treble "detail" than K702 somewhat surprises me, but we all perceive detail differently.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 11 August 2015, 08:43:01
Anyone unimpressed/unhappy with the AKG K702? I just got mine today, and I have to admit I'm kind of unimpressed. I have a Sennheiser HD-650, and it has waaaaaaaaaaay more treble detail than the K702. In comparison the treble in the K702 sounds more rough, grainy, and thin. Overall I'm just kind of "meh" about the headphones.

Anyone else have the same impressions of the AKG? Or is it just me?

I didn't find the hd650 to have more treble detail but I did find the treble rough and graint with the k/q700 series
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Tue, 11 August 2015, 09:11:43
Anyone unimpressed/unhappy with the AKG K702? I just got mine today, and I have to admit I'm kind of unimpressed. I have a Sennheiser HD-650, and it has waaaaaaaaaaay more treble detail than the K702. In comparison the treble in the K702 sounds more rough, grainy, and thin. Overall I'm just kind of "meh" about the headphones.

Anyone else have the same impressions of the AKG? Or is it just me?

HD650 having more treble "detail" than K702 somewhat surprises me, but we all perceive detail differently.

That's part of the beauty of the HD650 IMO. It scales so well with the rest of the system, it can improve dramatically as you upgrade amps/source. One person's 650 setup will sound noticeably different than another's. I think that colors comparisons just as much as the differences individuals perceive.

I sometimes regret giving away my HD650s, but they just weren't getting enough use. I use IEMs a lot more than full sized cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 11 August 2015, 09:54:59
Anyone unimpressed/unhappy with the AKG K702? I just got mine today, and I have to admit I'm kind of unimpressed. I have a Sennheiser HD-650, and it has waaaaaaaaaaay more treble detail than the K702. In comparison the treble in the K702 sounds more rough, grainy, and thin. Overall I'm just kind of "meh" about the headphones.

Anyone else have the same impressions of the AKG? Or is it just me?

HD650 having more treble "detail" than K702 somewhat surprises me, but we all perceive detail differently.

That's part of the beauty of the HD650 IMO. It scales so well with the rest of the system, it can improve dramatically as you upgrade amps/source. One person's 650 setup will sound noticeably different than another's. I think that colors comparisons just as much as the differences individuals perceive.

I sometimes regret giving away my HD650s, but they just weren't getting enough use. I use IEMs a lot more than full sized cans.

I'm a bit in the objectivist camp, I believe amps should be transparent and let the headphones play their natural sound (otherwise why not just use EQ?).

I love my 650s, but at times I wish there was a just tad more upper mid/treble energy for certain songs. Oddly enough they work super good with Rise Against, but don't do very well with some jrock bands (ONE OK ROCK).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 11 August 2015, 10:35:31
HiFiMan is destroying it with the 400i and 560s.  Planars are love and HD650 left me wanting.

Getting an ESP950 at $400 will change your life. 

CIEMs are expensive and fragile and amazing. IEMs are for people with gaping ear canals.

Bass heads will love the Philips x2s and old LCD V2.2 pre fazor. 

I still think the Fischer FA003/FA003Ti are fantastic headphones for the money. 

The 880 250ohm are pretty kickass headphones which sound more open than they really are.

Wide soundstage is strange when it's artificial but amazing when you can pick out footsteps coming from behind you in a game.  Gaming headsets are often terrible.

I wish there were more headphone stores or ways to rent equipment.  Learning about Hi-Fi while removed from a lot of the meeting hubs is expensive.

#audiophool
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 11 August 2015, 12:28:38
HiFiMan is destroying it with the 400i and 560s.  Planars are love and HD650 left me wanting.

Getting an ESP950 at $400 will change your life. 

CIEMs are expensive and fragile and amazing. IEMs are for people with gaping ear canals.

Bass heads will love the Philips x2s and old LCD V2.2 pre fazor. 

I still think the Fischer FA003/FA003Ti are fantastic headphones for the money. 

The 880 250ohm are pretty kickass headphones which sound more open than they really are.

Wide soundstage is strange when it's artificial but amazing when you can pick out footsteps coming from behind you in a game.  Gaming headsets are often terrible.

I wish there were more headphone stores or ways to rent equipment.  Learning about Hi-Fi while removed from a lot of the meeting hubs is expensive.

#audiophool

Can confirm all of this.

Will add, a pair of CIEMs will change your life, too. The level of sound, detail and feel that comes out shouldn't.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 11 August 2015, 12:30:39
Beyerdynamic should be releasing the DT1770 pretty soon, I think it's gonna be replacing the DT770 closed-back can. Not gonna be cheap but I've heard that treble has been toned down a tad, with improved bass and, oh yeah, it'd be using Tesla 2.0 drivers. I personally think it look badass and can't wait for reviews. Been waiting for a good closed-back can to add to my collection, was considering the Shure 1540, but glad I'd waited......this is one can I'm so looking forward to.

Meanwhile, I'm really enjoying the Gustard H10, it brought out the performance of my Alpha Dog and HE500, especially the HE500. I'd actually considered selling the HE500 since I prefer the HE400i over it (using the Lyr + iFi iDSD Nano stack). The Gustard H10 amp and X12 DAC really made the HE500 sing.....better resolve, nice bass in quantity and quality, sick clarity and transparency. The H10 has very, very nice synergy with the HE500......never thought an amp would change my opinion of a can, but the H10 has made my HE500 the go to can in my collection. Next to it, the HE400i pales in comparison, losing to the HE500 in just about everything other than bass.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Tue, 11 August 2015, 14:00:04
Re: AKG K702's

Would you guys also say that the treble is a bit more... "farther back" than the other frequencies? Whereas the HD-650 seems more upfront? The treble on my pair of K702 just seems "cheap" to me, almost like something from a crappy pair of $15 headphones, to be quite honest, and I'm actually starting to wonder if I have a defective unit.

Edit: I will say, though, that it might just be in my head, regarding the "cheap" feeling of the treble. I gave it a day to sleep on it, and I actually now kind of miss the sound of the K702, but I'll have to do some more testing later. Nonetheless, is the treble a little more "farther back" than the HD-650? Because I still want to discern whether my unit is defective or not. I swear, the first time I heard it, I thought the unit was defective...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 12 August 2015, 12:28:50
I'd collected my Neutrik sockets + Morgami custom balanced XLR cables for my Gustard H10 + X12 stack.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zps1bgazrxy.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: genkidama on Wed, 12 August 2015, 12:53:26
Hey guys could you give me some tips regarding on-ear headphones for around 50 Euros (should be around 56$)?
They should be neutral and fairly comfortable to wear. The Superlux 681 from thomann (if they're known; I know they are over-ears) are quite tight and start hurting after a short time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 12 August 2015, 12:53:45
I'd collected my Neutrik sockets + Morgami custom balanced XLR cables for my Gustard H10 + X12 stack.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zps1bgazrxy.jpg)



Post count +1 I guess.  What has this done for your setup?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 12 August 2015, 13:18:06
I'd collected my Neutrik sockets + Morgami custom balanced XLR cables for my Gustard H10 + X12 stack.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zps1bgazrxy.jpg)



Post count +1 I guess.  What has this done for your setup?
Nothing, I'd gotten them to replace the 1m pair I had simply because I didn't like how the cables hung down due to the length. I don't have golden ears, so I doubt I can hear any difference between the short custom pair and the vanilla 1m pair. :-[
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 12 August 2015, 13:19:46
I'd collected my Neutrik sockets + Morgami custom balanced XLR cables for my Gustard H10 + X12 stack.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zps1bgazrxy.jpg)



Post count +1 I guess.  What has this done for your setup?
Nothing, I'd gotten them to replace the 1m pair I had simply because I didn't like how the cables hung down due to the length. I don't have golden ears, so I doubt I can hear any difference between the short custom pair and the vanilla 1m pair. :-[

I doubt anyone could considering people have used hanger wire for interconnect without incident.  Cable management is neat though!  Love it when I can get my mess under control.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 12 August 2015, 13:26:17
I doubt anyone could considering people have used hanger wire for interconnect without incident.  Cable management is neat though!  Love it when I can get my mess under control.
Yep, it was more about aesthetics and cable management than sonic improvement. I'm shallow that wwy....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpsuq4673vh.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 12 August 2015, 13:37:47
Changing cables for cable management is fine.

The original LCD2 cables were like metal bars and I changed them to the q Cable which is a lot more flexible and comfortable to use.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Fri, 14 August 2015, 15:48:51
Yeah.. nothing wrong with buying different cables because you want to keep things tidy!  +1
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 14 August 2015, 15:52:10
Changing cables for cable management is fine.

The original LCD2 cables were like metal bars and I changed them to the q Cable which is a lot more flexible and comfortable to use.

+1

Yeah.. nothing wrong with buying different cables because you want to keep things tidy!  +1

+2, did it with my modi/vali when I had the stack.  Looked beautiful and cables were neat.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 16 August 2015, 23:47:02
I was enjoying the (barely) recessed midrange of the th600s for a bit, but then decided to play around with the EQ on my e17... Am enjoying what I've got so far. Not perfectly flat but I think it sounds good. Really versatile cans I'd say, I'm sure demik would disapprove of how my th600s sound compared to his. 

In other news I wish I felt the need to drop money in a new amp/dac set up.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 16 August 2015, 23:50:00
I was enjoying the (barely) recessed midrange of the th600s for a bit, but then decided to play around with the EQ on my e17... Am enjoying what I've got so far. Not perfectly flat but I think it sounds good. Really versatile cans I'd say, I'm sure demik would disapprove of how my th600s sound compared to his. 

In other news I wish I felt the need to drop money in a new amp/dac set up.

The only thing you're missing is a pair of TH900 =P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 16 August 2015, 23:51:23
I was enjoying the (barely) recessed midrange of the th600s for a bit, but then decided to play around with the EQ on my e17... Am enjoying what I've got so far. Not perfectly flat but I think it sounds good. Really versatile cans I'd say, I'm sure demik would disapprove of how my th600s sound compared to his. 

In other news I wish I felt the need to drop money in a new amp/dac set up.

The only thing you're missing is a pair of TH900 =P

yeaaaaah I wish. I think I'd choose something else over th900 at that price point though :D

next step is actually some custom Nobles ;).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 17 August 2015, 03:43:56
Changing cables for cable management is fine.

The original LCD2 cables were like metal bars and I changed them to the q Cable which is a lot more flexible and comfortable to use.

+1

Yeah.. nothing wrong with buying different cables because you want to keep things tidy!  +1

+2, did it with my modi/vali when I had the stack.  Looked beautiful and cables were neat.
I showed the pic to the guy who did the cables, I told him about having to twist the cables somewhat in order to align the pins to slot into the amp/dac stack. He asked for me to hand him the cables (which I had) so that he can adjust/redo the cable connectors internally so that they align without twisting. Now that's pride in one's work!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mylove1431 on Mon, 17 August 2015, 03:49:16
I doubt anyone could considering people have used hanger wire for interconnect without incident.  Cable management is neat though!  Love it when I can get my mess under control.
Yep, it was more about aesthetics and cable management than sonic improvement. I'm shallow that wwy....
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpsuq4673vh.jpg)


 :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bomble on Mon, 17 August 2015, 03:53:23
I just have a pair of ATH-M50x with a Zalman ZM-1 clipped on to the cable. Works fine for me, but I'd like to upgrade at some point in the not too distant future.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 17 August 2015, 13:00:36
My XLR cables are back, and yes, the cable guy redid it in such a way that there's hardly any twisting required to align the plugs to the sockets. He did a very nice job! :thumb:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpsuixde6aw.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 17 August 2015, 19:32:05
My XLR cables are back, and yes, the cable guy redid it in such a way that there's hardly any twisting required to align the plugs to the sockets. He did a very nice job! :thumb:
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpsuixde6aw.jpg)


legit customer service there!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 18 August 2015, 09:21:26
legit customer service there!
Yep! :thumb: I was one of his first customers when he decided to do headphone cable mods, and have even recommended him to others. His work isn't exactly cheap, but he's very professional about it.

I just found out that I'd be coming into a bit of a windfall (easily five figure) so I'm now toying with the idea of getting an AK Angie UF, it's not gonna be cheap but been compared well against its bigger sibling (Layla). Alos liked that it's smaller than the JHA Roxanne UF that I'd been looking at previously. Still like the idea of having a good BA IEM to complement the IE800. Also intend to seriously look at the Beyerdynamic DT1770 Pro when it's released next month.....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Tue, 18 August 2015, 09:38:09
bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Protato_Tubby on Tue, 18 August 2015, 10:16:25
bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Tue, 18 August 2015, 16:15:34
Well... after the questions I had about the K702 (whether it was defective or not), I started to actually really, REALLY like the headphones. I just loved its treble sound - how airy and spacious it felt, and the energy it gave to songs. I speak in the past tense, because I returned it - not because I didn't like it, but because now I want a pair of K712's instead. :p

I definitely liked it more than the HD-650 that I have now, that's for sure. Technically speaking, the HD-650 is the better headphone, but I just liked the K702 more from a subjective point of view. It was just a fun (but not in the sense of, coloring music to hell, like Grados) headphone to listen to. If anyone is looking for a headphone in the $250-300 range, I would definitely recommend the K702.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 18 August 2015, 16:34:19
Well... after the questions I had about the K702 (whether it was defective or not), I started to actually really, REALLY like the headphones. I just loved its treble sound - how airy and spacious it felt, and the energy it gave to songs. I speak in the past tense, because I returned it - not because I didn't like it, but because now I want a pair of K712's instead. :p

I definitely liked it more than the HD-650 that I have now, that's for sure. Technically speaking, the HD-650 is the better headphone, but I just liked the K702 more from a subjective point of view. It was just a fun (but not in the sense of, coloring music to hell, like Grados) headphone to listen to. If anyone is looking for a headphone in the $250-300 range, I would definitely recommend the K702.

You should try out Philips Fidelio x2s if you get a chance!  Very impressive headphone for that price range
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 18 August 2015, 18:20:43
Well... after the questions I had about the K702 (whether it was defective or not), I started to actually really, REALLY like the headphones. I just loved its treble sound - how airy and spacious it felt, and the energy it gave to songs. I speak in the past tense, because I returned it - not because I didn't like it, but because now I want a pair of K712's instead. :p

I definitely liked it more than the HD-650 that I have now, that's for sure. Technically speaking, the HD-650 is the better headphone, but I just liked the K702 more from a subjective point of view. It was just a fun (but not in the sense of, coloring music to hell, like Grados) headphone to listen to. If anyone is looking for a headphone in the $250-300 range, I would definitely recommend the K702.

You should try out Philips Fidelio x2s if you get a chance!  Very impressive headphone for that price range

For that price range, for me, that's the headphone to get. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 18 August 2015, 18:26:01
+1 Fidelio X2
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 18 August 2015, 19:26:37
Did anyone else follow the schitt show? I know that my WA7 is more than plenty but I really want a Gungnir and Mjolnir now..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 18 August 2015, 19:30:50
Didn't follow it.. heard mention of it on head-fi then forgot about it.  Hopefully tomorrow I'll remember to read about it ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Tue, 18 August 2015, 19:42:54
I was at the Schiit show. :cool: But I'm way too noob to really tell the difference between amps/DAC's, so I can't really give you much of an impression, sorry. I mostly went to check out the usual high-end headphones that most people would suspect would be there - HD800, Audeze's, etc.

I will say the Ether C that debuted there was pretty amazing, though. It did get a little weird at times with the treble, but otherwise, a fantastic headphone. I would still put the HD800 and the LCD3 above it, but the Ether C nonetheless is fantastic.

As far as the Fidelio X2 goes... what's the sound signature like, on those? Are they cold or warm? Because I personally prefer colder signatures (which is why I loved the K702 so much). And have you guys done direct comparisons between the Fidelio X2 and the K701/2?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 August 2015, 00:13:23
Did anyone else follow the schitt show? I know that my WA7 is more than plenty but I really want a Gungnir and Mjolnir now..

Did you change the tubes in the WA7?

I really hated it stock =S

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 19 August 2015, 00:41:11
Did anyone else follow the schitt show? I know that my WA7 is more than plenty but I really want a Gungnir and Mjolnir now..

Did you change the tubes in the WA7?

I really hated it stock =S

Naw I am still on the stock tubes. I haven't tried any other tubes so I have no point of reference. I am going to just change them out to the upgraded tubes once these original ones burn out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 19 August 2015, 01:00:09
I was at the Schiit show. :cool: But I'm way too noob to really tell the difference between amps/DAC's, so I can't really give you much of an impression, sorry. I mostly went to check out the usual high-end headphones that most people would suspect would be there - HD800, Audeze's, etc.

I will say the Ether C that debuted there was pretty amazing, though. It did get a little weird at times with the treble, but otherwise, a fantastic headphone. I would still put the HD800 and the LCD3 above it, but the Ether C nonetheless is fantastic.

As far as the Fidelio X2 goes... what's the sound signature like, on those? Are they cold or warm? Because I personally prefer colder signatures (which is why I loved the K702 so much). And have you guys done direct comparisons between the Fidelio X2 and the K701/2?

It is significantly warmer than either the k headphones or the hd stuff.  Which is why I like it more.  I'm lightly intrigued with the C, except the price.  Hopefully the pm-3 are as good as lauded.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Wed, 19 August 2015, 02:05:23
bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Whats the different on both bass? i dont know i just want another headphone for some trap cuz i got sr80e and the bass is not so good :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 August 2015, 06:25:11

With the sale of my Duck Vipers and the Surface Pro 4 coming out in October I may be able to squeeze in a TH900 purchase =S

bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Whats the different on both bass? i dont know i just want another headphone for some trap cuz i got sr80e and the bass is not so good :)

Audiophiles prefer quality bass.

quality bass is tight.

Consumers prefer emphasized bass

Emphasized bass is normally loose and runny.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 19 August 2015, 10:21:56
Picked up my latest can, a relatively budget one for my portable listening pleasure (I don't wanna use my IE800 all the time). The DT1350 sound pretty neutral to me, veery polite treble and somewhat polite mids as well, nothing jumps out at you......just an initial impression.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/5_zpsbl0akqhj.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Wed, 19 August 2015, 10:50:34

With the sale of my Duck Vipers and the Surface Pro 4 coming out in October I may be able to squeeze in a TH900 purchase =S

bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Whats the different on both bass? i dont know i just want another headphone for some trap cuz i got sr80e and the bass is not so good :)

Audiophiles prefer quality bass.

quality bass is tight.

Consumers prefer emphasized bass

Emphasized bass is normally loose and runny.
OK BRO get me the quality bass for under 100 dollar  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Wed, 19 August 2015, 10:53:44

With the sale of my Duck Vipers and the Surface Pro 4 coming out in October I may be able to squeeze in a TH900 purchase =S

bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Whats the different on both bass? i dont know i just want another headphone for some trap cuz i got sr80e and the bass is not so good :)

Audiophiles prefer quality bass.

quality bass is tight.

Consumers prefer emphasized bass

Emphasized bass is normally loose and runny.

If he's saying he doesn't like the SR-80E, he's probably not liking the "flabby" and "not-at-all deep" bass of the headphones, which I think characterizes most Grado's. Lots of bass in terms of volume, but doesn't go very deep, and isn't very tight.

That said, I don't know the $100 range of headphones very well. Maybe some of the V-Modas? The Beats Solo 2 can also be had for around $140 on Amazon - I know the Beats by Dre line gets a lot of flack, but the Beats Solo 2 specifically did get good reviews, by even audiophiles like Tyll. And it should definitely do the trick in terms of the bass department.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 19 August 2015, 12:05:43

With the sale of my Duck Vipers and the Surface Pro 4 coming out in October I may be able to squeeze in a TH900 purchase =S

bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Whats the different on both bass? i dont know i just want another headphone for some trap cuz i got sr80e and the bass is not so good :)

Audiophiles prefer quality bass.

quality bass is tight.

Consumers prefer emphasized bass

Emphasized bass is normally loose and runny.
OK BRO get me the quality bass for under 100 dollar  :p

That's easy. (http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1440003917&sr=8-1&keywords=nvx+xpt100)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 August 2015, 12:28:28

With the sale of my Duck Vipers and the Surface Pro 4 coming out in October I may be able to squeeze in a TH900 purchase =S

bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Whats the different on both bass? i dont know i just want another headphone for some trap cuz i got sr80e and the bass is not so good :)

Audiophiles prefer quality bass.

quality bass is tight.

Consumers prefer emphasized bass

Emphasized bass is normally loose and runny.
OK BRO get me the quality bass for under 100 dollar  :p

That's easy. (http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1440003917&sr=8-1&keywords=nvx+xpt100)

O.o

Never heard of those before. What are they like?

My audiophile friend (24bits) took a liking to the Sony XB950bt which should be more bass heavy with good quality.

I still dislike the sound of beats and vmoda

Obviously preference to the buyer trumps my personal opinions so get what sounds better to your ears.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mooksie on Wed, 19 August 2015, 13:53:20
Not really an audiophile myself but I did get my first decent set of headphones a few months ago. Sound about as good as my friends M50's(with my untrained ears.)

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7799/18019859710_17e0353617_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/tsmuuo)Philips SHP9500 (https://flic.kr/p/tsmuuo) by Noah Blalock (https://www.flickr.com/photos/noahblalock/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 19 August 2015, 13:58:11

With the sale of my Duck Vipers and the Surface Pro 4 coming out in October I may be able to squeeze in a TH900 purchase =S

bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Whats the different on both bass? i dont know i just want another headphone for some trap cuz i got sr80e and the bass is not so good :)

Audiophiles prefer quality bass.

quality bass is tight.

Consumers prefer emphasized bass

Emphasized bass is normally loose and runny.
OK BRO get me the quality bass for under 100 dollar  :p

That's easy. (http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1440003917&sr=8-1&keywords=nvx+xpt100)

O.o

Never heard of those before. What are they like?

My audiophile friend (24bits) took a liking to the Sony XB950bt which should be more bass heavy with good quality.

I still dislike the sound of beats and vmoda

Obviously preference to the buyer trumps my personal opinions so get what sounds better to your ears.

These are rebranded Fischer FA-003s.  I'm pretty sure you've heard the FA-003s before, right?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 August 2015, 15:20:47

With the sale of my Duck Vipers and the Surface Pro 4 coming out in October I may be able to squeeze in a TH900 purchase =S

bro can i get some recommendation for good bass headphones under 100 dollar  :p
What do you mean by good bass?
Do you mean prominent bass?
Or tight bass?
Whats the different on both bass? i dont know i just want another headphone for some trap cuz i got sr80e and the bass is not so good :)

Audiophiles prefer quality bass.

quality bass is tight.

Consumers prefer emphasized bass

Emphasized bass is normally loose and runny.
OK BRO get me the quality bass for under 100 dollar  :p

That's easy. (http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1440003917&sr=8-1&keywords=nvx+xpt100)

O.o

Never heard of those before. What are they like?

My audiophile friend (24bits) took a liking to the Sony XB950bt which should be more bass heavy with good quality.

I still dislike the sound of beats and vmoda

Obviously preference to the buyer trumps my personal opinions so get what sounds better to your ears.

These are rebranded Fischer FA-003s.  I'm pretty sure you've heard the FA-003s before, right?

Never heard the 003s myself. I don't remember ever seeing it carried by any stores locally or online in Canada. Maybe a rebrand was around online in Canada. The only Fischer product I've tried was the 012
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 19 August 2015, 15:37:12
Never heard the 003s myself. I don't remember ever seeing it carried by any stores locally or online in Canada. Maybe a rebrand was around online in Canada. The only Fischer product I've tried was the 012

Ahhh, these are wonderful all-rounders.  At least grade B across the entire spectrum with A- sound quality in most areas A level lower mids easy.  I had a tough time liking well modded T50RPs over this  headphone, and it ended up being the planar sound which won me over in the end.  Very hard to overload the drivers (they can get very loud), and they are sensitive enough for portable devices. They're well built and the closed design was designed to accommodate the drivers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 August 2015, 15:41:11
Never heard the 003s myself. I don't remember ever seeing it carried by any stores locally or online in Canada. Maybe a rebrand was around online in Canada. The only Fischer product I've tried was the 012

Ahhh, these are wonderful all-rounders.  At least grade B across the entire spectrum with A- sound quality in most areas A level lower mids easy.  I had a tough time liking well modded T50RPs over this  headphone, and it ended up being the planar sound which won me over in the end.  Very hard to overload the drivers (they can get very loud), and they are sensitive enough for portable devices. They're well built and the closed design was designed to accommodate the drivers.

You guys are killing me. I know I want the TH900 but all this talk of the X2 and now the 003 makes me want to pick those up too.

Maybe I should invest in a new camera first, sell the old camera then buy more headphones  >:D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 19 August 2015, 18:25:57
Not to mention all the keyboard stuff going on..  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 19 August 2015, 19:22:02
Not to mention all the keyboard stuff going on..  :))

I had to sell off my MX boards. The only MX I have now is my Mobik. The rest is Topre which is not something I can really buy extra stuff for.

Probably going to sell off all my MX stuff besides the Mobik, one keyset and my artisans.

(Basically just a few keysets to sell now)

Otherwise it would never end with all the keyboards =[ I realized that when I had two Vipers sitting on my desk.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 19 August 2015, 19:55:54
Not to mention all the keyboard stuff going on..  :))

I had to sell off my MX boards. The only MX I have now is my Mobik. The rest is Topre which is not something I can really buy extra stuff for.

Probably going to sell off all my MX stuff besides the Mobik, one keyset and my artisans.

(Basically just a few keysets to sell now)

Otherwise it would never end with all the keyboards =[ I realized that when I had two Vipers sitting on my desk.



I've just got the single CM Storm QFR keyboard.. eventually want to have a custom TKL built, but not sure when that will be able to happen
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 20 August 2015, 23:20:23
(http://i.imgur.com/O9OospT.png)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mrflow3r on Fri, 21 August 2015, 00:22:18
[attach=1]

This is my Sony xb950bt. I'm not an audiophile. I like chest thumping music though. It heals my broken heart.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 21 August 2015, 00:27:48
(Attachment Link)

This is my Sony xb950bt. I'm not an audiophile. I like chest thumping music though. It heals my broken heart.

24bits seems to like it a lot


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 21 August 2015, 01:26:25
I enjoyed mine for what they were, but even in sony's own line up, there're better things.  Like the 1a.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 21 August 2015, 02:13:58
I enjoyed mine for what they were, but even in sony's own line up, there're better things.  Like the 1a.
Isn't the 950 a lot cheaper though?

I did think the 1R was quite good when it first came out

Still hoping Sony will come in with a magical pair that makes me want to dish out top dollar. I think they have the capacity to make really great products but unfortunately it's very hit and miss (referring of course to the Z7)

The lower end Sony headphones just aren't my preference but a lot of them are at least good for their price
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 21 August 2015, 10:35:46
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/O9OospT.png)

Not a CIEM guy, what the heck is that? Damn nice looking faceplate design  :thumb: (or whatever it's called :confused:).

I'm now toying with the idea of getting the Ether since it's been described as a planr equivalent of the HD800.....but with a little more bass. But damn, 1.5k USD is cause for pause.....will have to mull over this though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 21 August 2015, 11:25:24
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/O9OospT.png)

Not a CIEM guy, what the heck is that? Damn nice looking faceplate design  :thumb: (or whatever it's called :confused:).

I'm now toying with the idea of getting the Ether since it's been described as a planr equivalent of the HD800.....but with a little more bass. But damn, 1.5k USD is cause for pause.....will have to mull over this though.

Those are my Wizard Noble K10s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 21 August 2015, 11:47:32

Those are my Wizard Noble K10s.
K10!!! Heard great things about the K10, came across it when I had it in my mind to get a high end CIEM/UF. Had been toying with the idea of getting an Angie, but I find the Ether more.....gravitating. ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 21 August 2015, 11:52:25

Those are my Wizard Noble K10s.
K10!!! Heard great things about the K10, came across it when I had it in my mind to get a high end CIEM/UF. Had been toying with the idea of getting an Angie, but I find the Ether more.....gravitating. ;)

Get the ether and send them to me for a week so I can let you know if you made the right choice or not ;P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 21 August 2015, 12:36:49
I enjoyed mine for what they were, but even in sony's own line up, there're better things.  Like the 1a.
Isn't the 950 a lot cheaper though?

I did think the 1R was quite good when it first came out

Still hoping Sony will come in with a magical pair that makes me want to dish out top dollar. I think they have the capacity to make really great products but unfortunately it's very hit and miss (referring of course to the Z7)

The lower end Sony headphones just aren't my preference but a lot of them are at least good for their price

I like the 1a more than the z7 even, but it's like $50 - 100 difference for the price between 950 and 1a.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mrflow3r on Fri, 21 August 2015, 12:41:10
I enjoyed mine for what they were, but even in sony's own line up, there're better things.  Like the 1a.
I really enjoy the freedom of BT. It sounds really good. That said, there are headphones with better audio quality. The 950bt is a really interesting pair headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mrflow3r on Fri, 21 August 2015, 12:42:07
I enjoyed mine for what they were, but even in sony's own line up, there're better things.  Like the 1a.
Isn't the 950 a lot cheaper though?

I did think the 1R was quite good when it first came out

Still hoping Sony will come in with a magical pair that makes me want to dish out top dollar. I think they have the capacity to make really great products but unfortunately it's very hit and miss (referring of course to the Z7)

The lower end Sony headphones just aren't my preference but a lot of them are at least good for their price
Ya I got it for 99$ last winter. Can't complain!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 21 August 2015, 13:44:01
Anyone else following Massdrop on headfi? They are coming out with a new CIEM. $599 starting point with 6 drivers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 21 August 2015, 14:50:14
I enjoyed mine for what they were, but even in sony's own line up, there're better things.  Like the 1a.
Isn't the 950 a lot cheaper though?

I did think the 1R was quite good when it first came out

Still hoping Sony will come in with a magical pair that makes me want to dish out top dollar. I think they have the capacity to make really great products but unfortunately it's very hit and miss (referring of course to the Z7)

The lower end Sony headphones just aren't my preference but a lot of them are at least good for their price

I like the 1a more than the z7 even, but it's like $50 - 100 difference for the price between 950 and 1a.

I don't feel Sony did a good job with the Z7. Definitely not worth the price tag and I prefer a lot of lower end headphones over them.

I almost bought them from the hype when it came out, glad I didn't.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 21 August 2015, 15:24:03
I enjoyed mine for what they were, but even in sony's own line up, there're better things.  Like the 1a.
Isn't the 950 a lot cheaper though?

I did think the 1R was quite good when it first came out

Still hoping Sony will come in with a magical pair that makes me want to dish out top dollar. I think they have the capacity to make really great products but unfortunately it's very hit and miss (referring of course to the Z7)

The lower end Sony headphones just aren't my preference but a lot of them are at least good for their price

I like the 1a more than the z7 even, but it's like $50 - 100 difference for the price between 950 and 1a.

I don't feel Sony did a good job with the Z7. Definitely not worth the price tag and I prefer a lot of lower end headphones over them.

I almost bought them from the hype when it came out, glad I didn't.

No dispute from me there.  I was just keeping it in sony's line.  I can rattle off a significant list that I think did better tbh.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 22 August 2015, 06:19:11
(http://i.imgur.com/X60CqQzh.jpg)

I like everyone else's K10 design more =[
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sat, 22 August 2015, 21:28:20
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/X60CqQzh.jpg)


I like everyone else's K10 design more =[
Those look great !

Looking forward to a listening session tonight.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 22 August 2015, 21:44:08
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/X60CqQzh.jpg)


I like everyone else's K10 design more =[
Those look great !

Looking forward to a listening session tonight.

You should make a slofi with CIEMs instead of headphones ;P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sat, 22 August 2015, 21:52:24
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/X60CqQzh.jpg)


I like everyone else's K10 design more =[
Those look great !

Looking forward to a listening session tonight.

You should make a slofi with CIEMs instead of headphones ;P
That will happen when I finally master my art.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 23 August 2015, 09:10:31
Man, I'm overthinking things......I'm leaning towards the Ether, but damn, I see a few 'Like new and under warranty' HD800 (or two) for sale at about 860USD. The Ether has been described as analytical and clinical sounding like the HD800 but with a better bass thump, but loses to the HD800's soundstage. Pretty confused, gonna have to sleep on this for the next few nights and see if I can decide (and guys, no 'great' suggestion like, "Hey, why not get both?!") I traded my HD800 for the Grado PS1k, I honestly don't mind getting it again, though the Ether is so much sexier.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 23 August 2015, 10:02:16
Man, I'm overthinking things......I'm leaning towards the Ether, but damn, I see a few 'Like new and under warranty' HD800 (or two) for sale at about 860USD. The Ether has been described as analytical and clinical sounding like the HD800 but with a better bass thump, but loses to the HD800's soundstage. Pretty confused, gonna have to sleep on this for the next few nights and see if I can decide (and guys, no 'great' suggestion like, "Hey, why not get both?!") I traded my HD800 for the Grado PS1k, I honestly don't mind getting it again, though the Ether is so much sexier.

The obvious answer is to buy both so you can do a comparison for us!

Otherwise get the ether because it's new. If you get the HD800 you'll always wonder if the ether would have been a better choice
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 23 August 2015, 17:52:52
Tried the HE560 today (finally)

Unfortunately I only had my ak240 ("only")

Sound definitely suggests that it would need some more juice but overall very good. I would definitely recommend it for the market price of a used one provided you have an amp.

Sound was a bit grainy in the mid-highs and lacking resolution in the highs. I feel the grain was likely a result of the low output power since the bass seemed to be a bit forced (not effortless as I feel it should sound)

And tried the new grado 325e... Eh

Not sure I like what they did with it. The 325i was aggressive and interesting. The 325e sounds more plain and neutral with the still ridiculously uncomfortable pads.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sun, 23 August 2015, 18:42:32
Man, I'm overthinking things......I'm leaning towards the Ether, but damn, I see a few 'Like new and under warranty' HD800 (or two) for sale at about 860USD. The Ether has been described as analytical and clinical sounding like the HD800 but with a better bass thump, but loses to the HD800's soundstage. Pretty confused, gonna have to sleep on this for the next few nights and see if I can decide (and guys, no 'great' suggestion like, "Hey, why not get both?!") I traded my HD800 for the Grado PS1k, I honestly don't mind getting it again, though the Ether is so much sexier.

Hmm... obviously the Ether and Ether C are two different things, but I tried out the Ether C at the Schiit show, and while it was indeed impressive, I just thought the HD-800 overall was a better headphone. The Ether C definitely had that forward, more "fun" sound signature, compared to the HD-800, but there were times when the treble got kind of wonky. It was as if the headphones couldn't handle delivering the treble properly, so it would just kind of "splurt" it out.

Someone else who was at the Schiit show apparently experienced something similar with the Ether C: http://www.head-fi.org/t/777730/schiitshow-2015-impressions/105#post_11840524

The guy says he thought some of the piano parts got kind of peaky, with some of the Ether C setups.

Now, of course, both the Ether C and Ether are two different headphones, and it seems most people (including the guy who wrote the impressions above) actually do prefer the regular Ether to the Ether C, but... I don't know. For me personally, after comparing the Ether C and the HD-800, and hearing the issues with the Ether C, I would have no problem just picking up the HD-800 without even auditioning the open-back Ether. I know that sounds kind of jerkish, but then again... you are kind of betting your hard earned money (800+ of it), especially when you haven't auditioned one of the headphones at all. And I would bet my money with a more established/reputable manufacturer.

But, of course... that's just me, personally. You say you are leaning towards the Ether, so just go with the Ether and try it out! It doesn't hurt to know for sure which one you prefer.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 23 August 2015, 21:14:43
@ GLITCH3D and fuzzybaffy, will take you guys' oppsing views under advisement......basically, the HD800 is old faithful (you KNOW it's great and will serve you well) while the Ether is the gal with the come hither looks (and you may be in for an adventure).

I have a chance to grab a Grado 325is for 180'ish USD, only reason why I ain't jumping on it is I have both the GS1k and PS1k. Still, at that price, the 325is is pretty tempting.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 23 August 2015, 21:47:01
@ GLITCH3D and fuzzybaffy, will take you guys' oppsing views under advisement......basically, the HD800 is old faithful (you KNOW it's great and will serve you well) while the Ether is the gal with the come hither looks (and you may be in for an adventure).

I have a chance to grab a Grado 325is for 180'ish USD, only reason why I ain't jumping on it is I have both the GS1k and PS1k. Still, at that price, the 325is is pretty tempting.

I've actually seen 325is for cheaper.

The grado line doesn't agree with my ears so I just steer clear. I find it good for rock but I don't listen to enough to warrant a grado purchase. Though, I still enjoyed the grados more than beyers.

And yea, that's basically a good summary. The ether is the random affair and the HD800 is the wife you know.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 24 August 2015, 08:13:28
I think I've got it down to the HD800 and.....surprise, surprise, a Fitear Parterre. The Ether can wait till next month, unless I cannot strike a deal with the HD800 seller, then it'd be the Ether and the Fitear Parterre.

Edit - The Fitear Parterre has been reserved for me, will collect it sometime next week.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 25 August 2015, 00:34:21
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 25 August 2015, 00:55:26
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
You sir...win.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 25 August 2015, 00:57:34
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
You sir...win.

Just waiting on his paypal address to send the money to.

Meanwhile there's terrible news on the Noble K10 front. Sunny messaged me saying that they're going to have to be rebuilt which I assume either means money or long wait times which is getting silly...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 25 August 2015, 04:05:51
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
A bit early, but 'grats on the most excellent purchase! :thumb: Looking forward to your impressions, somewhat curious about estat  but more focused on dynamic and planar mag drivers.

Funny thing happened, when the guy I'd swapped my HD800 (he was the original owner) for the Grado PS1000 heard that I was putting up my LCD2.2 for sale, he asked that I swap my LCD2.2 for the HD800 with a little cash top-up on my side, I don't mind as it'd save me a wad of cash should I get another HD800. So now, I'll have the Fitear Parterre and HD800 incoming next week, with the spare cash, I'm looking at an OPPO HA-1 for my other rig.......
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 25 August 2015, 11:52:32
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
A bit early, but 'grats on the most excellent purchase! :thumb: Looking forward to your impressions, somewhat curious about estat  but more focused on dynamic and planar mag drivers.

Funny thing happened, when the guy I'd swapped my HD800 (he was the original owner) for the Grado PS1000 heard that I was putting up my LCD2.2 for sale, he asked that I swap my LCD2.2 for the HD800 with a little cash top-up on my side, I don't mind as it'd save me a wad of cash should I get another HD800. So now, I'll have the Fitear Parterre and HD800 incoming next week, with the spare cash, I'm looking at an OPPO HA-1 for my other rig.......

apparently he sold it to someone else after I already asked for his paypal =/

And noble wants $250 + new molds to fix my K10s apparently. I've had these for less than 2 months in my possession...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 25 August 2015, 12:03:00
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
A bit early, but 'grats on the most excellent purchase! :thumb: Looking forward to your impressions, somewhat curious about estat  but more focused on dynamic and planar mag drivers.

Funny thing happened, when the guy I'd swapped my HD800 (he was the original owner) for the Grado PS1000 heard that I was putting up my LCD2.2 for sale, he asked that I swap my LCD2.2 for the HD800 with a little cash top-up on my side, I don't mind as it'd save me a wad of cash should I get another HD800. So now, I'll have the Fitear Parterre and HD800 incoming next week, with the spare cash, I'm looking at an OPPO HA-1 for my other rig.......

apparently he sold it to someone else after I already asked for his paypal =/

And noble wants $250 + new molds to fix my K10s apparently. I've had these for less than 2 months in my possession...

Holy crap... CIEMs are so expensive.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 25 August 2015, 12:23:51
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
A bit early, but 'grats on the most excellent purchase! :thumb: Looking forward to your impressions, somewhat curious about estat  but more focused on dynamic and planar mag drivers.

Funny thing happened, when the guy I'd swapped my HD800 (he was the original owner) for the Grado PS1000 heard that I was putting up my LCD2.2 for sale, he asked that I swap my LCD2.2 for the HD800 with a little cash top-up on my side, I don't mind as it'd save me a wad of cash should I get another HD800. So now, I'll have the Fitear Parterre and HD800 incoming next week, with the spare cash, I'm looking at an OPPO HA-1 for my other rig.......

apparently he sold it to someone else after I already asked for his paypal =/

And noble wants $250 + new molds to fix my K10s apparently. I've had these for less than 2 months in my possession...

Holy crap... CIEMs are so expensive.

Yup... I've totaled it and I'm $1900 invested in these k10s including shipping charges. I've put maybe 50 hours on them and they want another $250 + earmolds ($50) + shipping which would put me at around $2250.

At this point I'd rather them just convert them to universals if that's even possible =\

Or refund me my reshelling and art costs and I can sell them to someone else to deal with.

Worst part is they already asked for a second set of molds about 5-6 months ago so this would make my third set.

The sound is good but the hassle of doing all these adjustments and such makes me never want to buy CIEMs again... (And this is exactly what I was worried about originally with CIEMs)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 25 August 2015, 12:26:20
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
A bit early, but 'grats on the most excellent purchase! :thumb: Looking forward to your impressions, somewhat curious about estat  but more focused on dynamic and planar mag drivers.

Funny thing happened, when the guy I'd swapped my HD800 (he was the original owner) for the Grado PS1000 heard that I was putting up my LCD2.2 for sale, he asked that I swap my LCD2.2 for the HD800 with a little cash top-up on my side, I don't mind as it'd save me a wad of cash should I get another HD800. So now, I'll have the Fitear Parterre and HD800 incoming next week, with the spare cash, I'm looking at an OPPO HA-1 for my other rig.......

apparently he sold it to someone else after I already asked for his paypal =/

And noble wants $250 + new molds to fix my K10s apparently. I've had these for less than 2 months in my possession...

Holy crap... CIEMs are so expensive.

Yup... I've totaled it and I'm $1900 invested in these k10s including shipping charges. I've put maybe 50 hours on them and they want another $250 + earmolds ($50) + shipping which would put me at around $2250.

At this point I'd rather them just convert them to universals if that's even possible =\

Or refund me my travelling and art costs and I can sell them to someone else to deal with.

I just don't feel like it's justified when you've already put so much money into them.  I would ask if they could make an adjustment for you.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 25 August 2015, 12:56:33
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
A bit early, but 'grats on the most excellent purchase! :thumb: Looking forward to your impressions, somewhat curious about estat  but more focused on dynamic and planar mag drivers.

Funny thing happened, when the guy I'd swapped my HD800 (he was the original owner) for the Grado PS1000 heard that I was putting up my LCD2.2 for sale, he asked that I swap my LCD2.2 for the HD800 with a little cash top-up on my side, I don't mind as it'd save me a wad of cash should I get another HD800. So now, I'll have the Fitear Parterre and HD800 incoming next week, with the spare cash, I'm looking at an OPPO HA-1 for my other rig.......

apparently he sold it to someone else after I already asked for his paypal =/

And noble wants $250 + new molds to fix my K10s apparently. I've had these for less than 2 months in my possession...

Holy crap... CIEMs are so expensive.

Yup... I've totaled it and I'm $1900 invested in these k10s including shipping charges. I've put maybe 50 hours on them and they want another $250 + earmolds ($50) + shipping which would put me at around $2250.

At this point I'd rather them just convert them to universals if that's even possible =\

Or refund me my travelling and art costs and I can sell them to someone else to deal with.

I just don't feel like it's justified when you've already put so much money into them.  I would ask if they could make an adjustment for you.

That's the thing, they disposed of my last set of molds already, a crack appeared and connectors are loose among some other problems. The left side is kind of screwed while the right side would probably be fine with an adjustment which they feel is becoming a waste because it's basically going blind now without a set of molds to check fit. If they grind too much or in the wrong places I could still have the issue and have to spend yet another $65 just for another adjustment on that side.

Ugh. Should have gotten the universals. I could be swimming in eartips with the extra money I've spent on this
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: CPTBadAss on Tue, 25 August 2015, 13:00:53
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.

That sucks so bad it fell through :(

Anyone else following Massdrop on headfi? They are coming out with a new CIEM. $599 starting point with 6 drivers.

Huh that's really interesting. I should go try and find that thread.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Tue, 25 August 2015, 13:04:17
If this is true I'm going to cry tears of joy.

I'm finalizing a purchase of Stax SR007 with the 70xxx serial number line (considered the best depending on preferences though) with SRM007-2 amplifier for $1675 USD shipped.

All working condition and no imbalance

Of course I can't verify that last bit until I get them but he's sent me pictures of the headphones and amp and they look very good.
A bit early, but 'grats on the most excellent purchase! :thumb: Looking forward to your impressions, somewhat curious about estat  but more focused on dynamic and planar mag drivers.

Funny thing happened, when the guy I'd swapped my HD800 (he was the original owner) for the Grado PS1000 heard that I was putting up my LCD2.2 for sale, he asked that I swap my LCD2.2 for the HD800 with a little cash top-up on my side, I don't mind as it'd save me a wad of cash should I get another HD800. So now, I'll have the Fitear Parterre and HD800 incoming next week, with the spare cash, I'm looking at an OPPO HA-1 for my other rig.......

apparently he sold it to someone else after I already asked for his paypal =/

And noble wants $250 + new molds to fix my K10s apparently. I've had these for less than 2 months in my possession...

Holy crap... CIEMs are so expensive.

Yup... I've totaled it and I'm $1900 invested in these k10s including shipping charges. I've put maybe 50 hours on them and they want another $250 + earmolds ($50) + shipping which would put me at around $2250.

At this point I'd rather them just convert them to universals if that's even possible =\

Or refund me my travelling and art costs and I can sell them to someone else to deal with.

I just don't feel like it's justified when you've already put so much money into them.  I would ask if they could make an adjustment for you.

That's the thing, they disposed of my last set of molds already, a crack appeared and connectors are loose among some other problems. The left side is kind of screwed while the right side would probably be fine with an adjustment which they feel is becoming a waste because it's basically going blind now without a set of molds to check fit. If they grind too much or in the wrong places I could still have the issue and have to spend yet another $65 just for another adjustment on that side.

Ugh. Should have gotten the universals. I could be swimming in eartips with the extra money I've spent on this


This makes me glad I got the universals, but also sad as something similar may happen to me in the distant future :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 25 August 2015, 17:03:35
@ GL1TCH3D - Aw man, that sucked,  a double whammy.....the Stax purchase fell thru and the K10 issue. It never rains but it pours, eh? I feel for you dude, just hang in there.

I've always been leery of CIEM's and that's one reason why I'm always about Universal Fit and no custom jobs. Even when I was looking at the Roxanne and Angie, they were the UF models. This Fitear Parterre just fell into my lap, heard good things about Fitear, and this UF IEM was just what ai was looking for, it looks to be a solid construction and apparently sounds pretty good.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 25 August 2015, 17:12:55
@ GL1TCH3D - Aw man, that sucked,  a double whammy.....the Stax purchase fell thru and the K10 issue. It never rains but it pours, eh? I feel for you dude, just hang in there.

I've always been leery of CIEM's and that's one reason why I'm always about Universal Fit and no custom jobs. Even when I was looking at the Roxanne and Angie, they were the UF models. This Fitear Parterre just fell into my lap, heard good things about Fitear, and this UF IEM was just what ai was looking for, it looks to be a solid construction and apparently sounds pretty good.

Universals just don't compare to the fit when it does work.  Like you said this is just a run of extra bad mojo. :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Tue, 25 August 2015, 18:08:01
I don't understand why the manufacturer is putting the customer on the hook for the fix? Aren't those still under warranty?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 25 August 2015, 18:33:45
I don't understand why the manufacturer is putting the customer on the hook for the fix? Aren't those still under warranty?

They fell off the cable and cracked due to their loose connector and lack of locking mechanism.

Not sure why I'm on the hook which is why I'm really pissed off at Noble right now. I assume Sunny (the lab worker in China who deals with customers regarding adjustments) is simply quoting policy at me so I'll have to wait until brannan comes around to discuss with him (since Sunny has stopped replying)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 26 August 2015, 00:16:50
Universals just don't compare to the fit when it does work.  Like you said this is just a run of extra bad mojo. :(
Oh, I understand that, but it's the dealing with the reshelling, re-tuning, ear impression and patience (not exactly one of my strong suits). That's why I gravitate towards UF's, one needs only find the ear tips that suits one's ears, and you're good to go. I've been reading on the Parterre, seems it's great for Jazz, orchestral and perhaps chamber music, I'm hoping it'd also shine in New Age type music like Enya.....my IE800 can handle the remaining genres of music like rock and pop.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 26 August 2015, 09:26:08
Brannan got back to me and said they'd waive all repair costs but I'll still need a new set of impressions.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 26 August 2015, 10:14:56
Brannan got back to me and said they'd waive all repair costs but I'll still need a new set of impressions.



/me thumbs up.

Great great great guys at Noble.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 26 August 2015, 10:29:40
Brannan got back to me and said they'd waive all repair costs but I'll still need a new set of impressions.



/me thumbs up.

Great great great guys at Noble.

I feel like this was mainly just a case of Sunny quoting policy =(

Still annoying that I need new impressions.

I'm asking brannan for noble authorized audiologists now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 26 August 2015, 13:45:09
I'll send in my impressions for you and you can have my th900s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 26 August 2015, 14:39:36
I'll send in my impressions for you and you can have my th900s.

That's cruel

And I already spent $1800 on these, the loss of trading it for the TH900 would be worth a TH900 in itself =[

Though I do have a friend considering selling his k10s. I'll ask him if he would trade his k10s for the th900 and I'll just buy the TH900s in the end (assuming I don't spend all my money on the new camera)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Thu, 27 August 2015, 18:40:24
I feel like such a retard sitting here in a large room full of nerds with my dt990s on just dancing around in my chair listening to music.

This is a lot of fun though. I may be slightly drunk though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Fri, 28 August 2015, 23:47:15
I feel like such a retard sitting here in a large room full of nerds with my dt990s on just dancing around in my chair listening to music.

This is a lot of fun though. I may be slightly drunk though.

Don't.  I would kill for a pair of DT770s, DT880s, or DT990s and a nice amp.  Once my student loans are paid off I may actually have the money for a pair.  For now, I'll be happy with my ATH-AD700 and Koss PRODJ100.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 29 August 2015, 08:32:18
I feel like such a retard sitting here in a large room full of nerds with my dt990s on just dancing around in my chair listening to music.

This is a lot of fun though. I may be slightly drunk though.

Don't.  I would kill for a pair of DT770s, DT880s, or DT990s and a nice amp.  Once my student loans are paid off I may actually have the money for a pair.  For now, I'll be happy with my ATH-AD700 and Koss PRODJ100.

Right?  And we've got a 6 year old here..   rip money
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 29 August 2015, 10:16:42
Collected some new stuff today, think I'm running out of excuses to get new stuff.....these could be my penultimate purchases (I still have either an Ether/Ether C or a HE1000 to get before I call it quits). Anyway, potato pics to follow....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/ww_zpsh4k0g1kz.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/xx_zpsg3ekfsdm.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/yy_zpsstaskvqu.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 29 August 2015, 13:21:46
How do those even fit in your ears, they look massive >_0
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 29 August 2015, 13:36:21
How do those even fit in your ears, they look massive >_0

You should see the roxannes
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 29 August 2015, 16:04:40
I feel like such a retard sitting here in a large room full of nerds with my dt990s on just dancing around in my chair listening to music.

This is a lot of fun though. I may be slightly drunk though.

Don't.  I would kill for a pair of DT770s, DT880s, or DT990s and a nice amp.  Once my student loans are paid off I may actually have the money for a pair.  For now, I'll be happy with my ATH-AD700 and Koss PRODJ100.

I'm glad I decided to jump for the $100 for them, and the cable mod is great. I just need to save about another 260GBP for the schiit stack. But my little baby DAC is doing well so far.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sat, 29 August 2015, 16:42:56
I feel like such a retard sitting here in a large room full of nerds with my dt990s on just dancing around in my chair listening to music.

This is a lot of fun though. I may be slightly drunk though.

Don't.  I would kill for a pair of DT770s, DT880s, or DT990s and a nice amp.  Once my student loans are paid off I may actually have the money for a pair.  For now, I'll be happy with my ATH-AD700 and Koss PRODJ100.

I'm glad I decided to jump for the $100 for them, and the cable mod is great. I just need to save about another 260GBP for the schiit stack. But my little baby DAC is doing well so far.
260GBP??? Customs and shipping is that bad?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 29 August 2015, 17:17:25
I feel like such a retard sitting here in a large room full of nerds with my dt990s on just dancing around in my chair listening to music.

This is a lot of fun though. I may be slightly drunk though.

Don't.  I would kill for a pair of DT770s, DT880s, or DT990s and a nice amp.  Once my student loans are paid off I may actually have the money for a pair.  For now, I'll be happy with my ATH-AD700 and Koss PRODJ100.

I'm glad I decided to jump for the $100 for them, and the cable mod is great. I just need to save about another 260GBP for the schiit stack. But my little baby DAC is doing well so far.
260GBP??? Customs and shipping is that bad?

Well, it is, but that's not why they are that expensive. The official reseller in the UK sells them for like 130 each for a Modi 2 Uber and Vali, and if I weight up the exchange rate, it is probably the cheapest that way...

Or is it... I'm not sure now...

Edit: it's 192 GBP if my calculations of VAT and stuff is correct, although it's 220GBP if I include shipping.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sat, 29 August 2015, 17:20:58
I feel like such a retard sitting here in a large room full of nerds with my dt990s on just dancing around in my chair listening to music.

This is a lot of fun though. I may be slightly drunk though.

Don't.  I would kill for a pair of DT770s, DT880s, or DT990s and a nice amp.  Once my student loans are paid off I may actually have the money for a pair.  For now, I'll be happy with my ATH-AD700 and Koss PRODJ100.

I'm glad I decided to jump for the $100 for them, and the cable mod is great. I just need to save about another 260GBP for the schiit stack. But my little baby DAC is doing well so far.
260GBP??? Customs and shipping is that bad?

Well, it is, but that's not why they are that expensive. The official reseller in the UK sells them for like 130 each for a Modi 2 Uber and Vali, and if I weight up the exchange rate, it is probably the cheapest that way...

Or is it... I'm not sure now...
Uber stack is 300USD before shipping... So 195£. Yea after shipping and customs 260£ makes sense...

Americans are so spoiled.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 29 August 2015, 21:33:34
Set up my Oppo HA-1 this morning, but haven't configured it to play DSD on Foobar2k yet, but will do so later. I'm now listening to 320kbps MP3 rips of Enya and loving the sound on my just reaquired HD800. The spectrum display is quite a distraction, I find myself staring at it once in a while, but me likey das bling bling..... ;D
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/zz_zps8xaja3es.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sun, 30 August 2015, 11:31:40
My headphones plug in to the back of my pc :'(

I was going to get a schiit stack for my birthday but our car radiator decided it wanted to explode at the top


edit: Well.. it didn't really explode, just started leaking anti freeze all over the engine
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 01 September 2015, 07:26:20
Something of an extravagance, decided to get an ALO SXC 24 Fitear cable for my Parterre. While auditioning it, I swear I could hear some positive differences between it and the stock cable....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/yyy_zpslmv1flxn.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 01 September 2015, 12:53:58
That was the tears of your wallet you were hearing
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 01 September 2015, 20:51:17
That was the tears of your wallet you were hearing
LOL! Quite possible, I do admit that!  ;D But at the very least, the cable looks damn good! :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 02 September 2015, 08:58:11
It does!  I'm not sure I would be able to hear a difference, but I haven't gotten to use any really high end setups myself.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 11 September 2015, 05:22:15
It does!  I'm not sure I would be able to hear a difference, but I haven't gotten to use any really high end setups myself.
I was trying out some portable headamps and man, you can hear some subtle differences among them. Tried out a few and decided on the JDS Labs C5.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/C3-1_zpslybquws1.jpg)
With it, I hope to simply NOT be interested in anymore portable stuff purchases.....the C5 has a bass boost function and Yowzah! The bass is pretty darn overwhelming......and quite fatiguing. With it off though, it sounds a tad warm to me, with decent soundstage and clarity, sounds pretty euphonic to me.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/C3-2_zpsj5irqdga.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Fri, 11 September 2015, 08:34:03
^ that is a fine portable amp, JDS is a great company founded on solid engineering. I rock the C5D as I have a crappy Moto G as my DAP :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Fri, 11 September 2015, 12:50:56
Sony MDR-7506 with Beyer Dynamic velour earpads. Probably not the best headphones in existence, but for 80 dollars, who's complaining?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 11 September 2015, 13:07:24
Sony MDR-7506 with Beyer Dynamic velour earpads. Probably not the best headphones in existence, but for 80 dollars, who's complaining?

They're also good headphones if you like how they fit, so why worry.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Fri, 11 September 2015, 13:43:00
I'm working on selling my mom my FiiO E11k portable amp.. Too much of a pain in the ass to hook it up to my phone to listen at the gym, I never use it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 11 September 2015, 14:05:40
I'm working on selling my mom my FiiO E11k portable amp.. Too much of a pain in the ass to hook it up to my phone to listen at the gym, I never use it.

that's why I moved to DAPs. Less hassle with interconnects and only 1 device instead of 2-3
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Fri, 11 September 2015, 20:53:40
I'm working on selling my mom my FiiO E11k portable amp.. Too much of a pain in the ass to hook it up to my phone to listen at the gym, I never use it.

Honestly, I'd just get a beater pair of IEMs for the gym... IMO any IEM that is worth external amplification is not worth the risk of sweating all over it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 12 September 2015, 08:02:57
I'm working on selling my mom my FiiO E11k portable amp.. Too much of a pain in the ass to hook it up to my phone to listen at the gym, I never use it.

Honestly, I'd just get a beater pair of IEMs for the gym... IMO any IEM that is worth external amplification is not worth the risk of sweating all over it.

I have a $50 pair of iems I use.. I probably won't ever get anything more expensive than that anyway, considering how low on the list portable music is for me.  Our son takes up most of our spare funds as it is lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sat, 12 September 2015, 10:34:00
Our son takes up most of our spare funds as it is lol

He's a lucky boy then!  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 12 September 2015, 11:48:03
Our son takes up most of our spare funds as it is lol

He's a lucky boy then!  :)

We do our best.. keeps me out of the high end stuff I don't really need market tho ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 12 September 2015, 15:26:19
Our son takes up most of our spare funds as it is lol

He's a lucky boy then!  :)

We do our best.. keeps me out of the high end stuff I don't really need market tho ;)

Not always a bad thing. The more you delve into the high end the more you feel you're missing without it
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 21 September 2015, 12:08:49
Yeah, I think I'm happy with my Philips Fidelio X2s.. I still want to try them with a Schiit stack, but they are pretty good straight from the pc too
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 21 September 2015, 12:21:22
Yeah, I think I'm happy with my Philips Fidelio X2s.. I still want to try them with a Schiit stack, but they are pretty good straight from the pc too

if you don't get emi from your motherboard or wherever you play your music from, you could just get an amp. amps are far more important than dacs when it comes to sound, but even then, the differences are not very substantial. other's may feel differently. the biggest difference is the headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 21 September 2015, 12:23:42
Yeah, I think I'm happy with my Philips Fidelio X2s.. I still want to try them with a Schiit stack, but they are pretty good straight from the pc too

if you don't get emi from your motherboard or wherever you play your music from, you could just get an amp. amps are far more important than dacs when it comes to sound, but even then, the differences are not very substantial. other's may feel differently. the biggest difference is the headphones.

This is why getting an amp (and a DAC eventually) keeps getting pushed down the road.. something else always comes up to spend money on that is more important.  At this point I think I'm even going to replace my computer chair first ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lakiozoon on Mon, 21 September 2015, 13:08:11
Yeah, I think I'm happy with my Philips Fidelio X2s.. I still want to try them with a Schiit stack, but they are pretty good straight from the pc too

if you don't get emi from your motherboard or wherever you play your music from, you could just get an amp. amps are far more important than dacs when it comes to sound, but even then, the differences are not very substantial. other's may feel differently. the biggest difference is the headphones.

This is why getting an amp (and a DAC eventually) keeps getting pushed down the road.. something else always comes up to spend money on that is more important.  At this point I think I'm even going to replace my computer chair first ;)

IMHO, getting a DAC is a waste of money. Onboard DAC-s are good enough that you won't hear a difference. I have Matrix M-Stage stack (with separate Matrix DAC) and although it's a nifty gadget, I don't find it improves the sound quality. I can switch between cheapo soundcard DAC (Asus Xonar DG) and my Matrix DAC on the fly by changing inputs 1/2 on my Matrix M-Stage headphone amp and still can't notice any change in sound, although i am switching inputs during the playback. That is the best way to tell if there is any difference because you don't involve any sound memory (providing you set both inputs to exact same volume level).

My advice is to stick with your chair upgrade :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 21 September 2015, 14:21:55
Yeah, I think I'm happy with my Philips Fidelio X2s.. I still want to try them with a Schiit stack, but they are pretty good straight from the pc too

if you don't get emi from your motherboard or wherever you play your music from, you could just get an amp. amps are far more important than dacs when it comes to sound, but even then, the differences are not very substantial. other's may feel differently. the biggest difference is the headphones.

This is why getting an amp (and a DAC eventually) keeps getting pushed down the road.. something else always comes up to spend money on that is more important.  At this point I think I'm even going to replace my computer chair first ;)

IMHO, getting a DAC is a waste of money. Onboard DAC-s are good enough that you won't hear a difference. I have Matrix M-Stage stack (with separate Matrix DAC) and although it's a nifty gadget, I don't find it improves the sound quality. I can switch between cheapo soundcard DAC (Asus Xonar DG) and my Matrix DAC on the fly by changing inputs 1/2 on my Matrix M-Stage headphone amp and still can't notice any change in sound, although i am switching inputs during the playback. That is the best way to tell if there is any difference because you don't involve any sound memory (providing you set both inputs to exact same volume level).

My advice is to stick with your chair upgrade :thumb:

Depends entirely on the onboard unit in question.  I've run across some with horrid noise issues.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 21 September 2015, 15:08:41
Fortunately I haven't had any issues with my onboard sound.. but I think an amp at least would be nice
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 21 September 2015, 15:18:43
Fortunately I haven't had any issues with my onboard sound.. but I think an amp at least would be nice

Depends if the load on your audio-out is causing additional THD.

I made a simple dac/amp for spamray which he enjoys.  The trick is having the right amp for your cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 21 September 2015, 17:18:38
Yeah, I think I'm happy with my Philips Fidelio X2s.. I still want to try them with a Schiit stack, but they are pretty good straight from the pc too

if you don't get emi from your motherboard or wherever you play your music from, you could just get an amp. amps are far more important than dacs when it comes to sound, but even then, the differences are not very substantial. other's may feel differently. the biggest difference is the headphones.

This is why getting an amp (and a DAC eventually) keeps getting pushed down the road.. something else always comes up to spend money on that is more important.  At this point I think I'm even going to replace my computer chair first ;)

IMHO, getting a DAC is a waste of money. Onboard DAC-s are good enough that you won't hear a difference. I have Matrix M-Stage stack (with separate Matrix DAC) and although it's a nifty gadget, I don't find it improves the sound quality. I can switch between cheapo soundcard DAC (Asus Xonar DG) and my Matrix DAC on the fly by changing inputs 1/2 on my Matrix M-Stage headphone amp and still can't notice any change in sound, although i am switching inputs during the playback. That is the best way to tell if there is any difference because you don't involve any sound memory (providing you set both inputs to exact same volume level).

My advice is to stick with your chair upgrade :thumb:

As far as my experience more a good DAC changes the sound as much as a good amp. Different DAC chips have different sound signatures.

You'll often hear Wolfson DACs sound more natural. Etc.

Onboard DACs are really cheap and there's a lot of electrical noise. I've always found even a cheaper Fiio external DAC to be superior and in some cases help more than a lower end amp.

The biggest change in sound will come from the headphones though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lakiozoon on Mon, 21 September 2015, 17:56:13
Fortunately I haven't had any issues with my onboard sound.. but I think an amp at least would be nice

Depending which headphones you use, you may need an amp. With low impendance cans tho, IMHO, the amp won't make much difference.
Some amps can also be pre-amps for a nice monitor setup, so the routing feature can be useful.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 22 September 2015, 08:37:29
As far as my experience more a good DAC changes the sound as much as a good amp. Different DAC chips have different sound signatures.

You'll often hear Wolfson DACs sound more natural. Etc.

Onboard DACs are really cheap and there's a lot of electrical noise. I've always found even a cheaper Fiio external DAC to be superior and in some cases help more than a lower end amp.

The biggest change in sound will come from the headphones though.

I'm not really sold on the DAC making different sound on level with amps. Amps can enforce actual changes to frequency response depending on the output impedance and the impedance curve of the headphones. Innerfidelity is currently (has?) conducted DAC blind testing and I don't think the results are conclusive enough to go one way or the other.

As for onboard DACs being cheap, I've not found any EMI from any modern, decently priced mobo that I've heard. Yes, if you get EMI, for sure, get an external DAC, but if you don't, I personally cannot see there being a large enough difference to justify the price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 22 September 2015, 10:30:01
As far as my experience more a good DAC changes the sound as much as a good amp. Different DAC chips have different sound signatures.

You'll often hear Wolfson DACs sound more natural. Etc.

Onboard DACs are really cheap and there's a lot of electrical noise. I've always found even a cheaper Fiio external DAC to be superior and in some cases help more than a lower end amp.

The biggest change in sound will come from the headphones though.

I'm not really sold on the DAC making different sound on level with amps. Amps can enforce actual changes to frequency response depending on the output impedance and the impedance curve of the headphones. Innerfidelity is currently (has?) conducted DAC blind testing and I don't think the results are conclusive enough to go one way or the other.

As for onboard DACs being cheap, I've not found any EMI from any modern, decently priced mobo that I've heard. Yes, if you get EMI, for sure, get an external DAC, but if you don't, I personally cannot see there being a large enough difference to justify the price.

My experience (so take this with a grain of salt) is that cheap DACs sound thin and electronic. Now the thinness could also be influenced by the lack of a real amp too. But I haven't heard a DAC in the sub $300 range that I enjoyed

The parasound DACs sounded great on a budget at around the 200-300 range depending on where you find them but they're incredibly rare and limiting in options
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 22 September 2015, 10:36:53
As far as my experience more a good DAC changes the sound as much as a good amp. Different DAC chips have different sound signatures.

You'll often hear Wolfson DACs sound more natural. Etc.

Onboard DACs are really cheap and there's a lot of electrical noise. I've always found even a cheaper Fiio external DAC to be superior and in some cases help more than a lower end amp.

The biggest change in sound will come from the headphones though.

I'm not really sold on the DAC making different sound on level with amps. Amps can enforce actual changes to frequency response depending on the output impedance and the impedance curve of the headphones. Innerfidelity is currently (has?) conducted DAC blind testing and I don't think the results are conclusive enough to go one way or the other.

As for onboard DACs being cheap, I've not found any EMI from any modern, decently priced mobo that I've heard. Yes, if you get EMI, for sure, get an external DAC, but if you don't, I personally cannot see there being a large enough difference to justify the price.

My experience (so take this with a grain of salt) is that cheap DACs sound thin and electronic. Now the thinness could also be influenced by the lack of a real amp too. But I haven't heard a DAC in the sub $300 range that I enjoyed

The parasound DACs sounded great on a budget at around the 200-300 range depending on where you find them but they're incredibly rare and limiting in options

There's a lot of onboard which is actually engineered with the same or better specs than top quality audiophile gear for theater- it's rare that they have great headphone support, but it really depends on the engineer who designed it.  Rarely do they get the credit they would if they were making something for audiophiles.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 22 September 2015, 11:05:02
As far as my experience more a good DAC changes the sound as much as a good amp. Different DAC chips have different sound signatures.

You'll often hear Wolfson DACs sound more natural. Etc.

Onboard DACs are really cheap and there's a lot of electrical noise. I've always found even a cheaper Fiio external DAC to be superior and in some cases help more than a lower end amp.

The biggest change in sound will come from the headphones though.

I'm not really sold on the DAC making different sound on level with amps. Amps can enforce actual changes to frequency response depending on the output impedance and the impedance curve of the headphones. Innerfidelity is currently (has?) conducted DAC blind testing and I don't think the results are conclusive enough to go one way or the other.

As for onboard DACs being cheap, I've not found any EMI from any modern, decently priced mobo that I've heard. Yes, if you get EMI, for sure, get an external DAC, but if you don't, I personally cannot see there being a large enough difference to justify the price.

My experience (so take this with a grain of salt) is that cheap DACs sound thin and electronic. Now the thinness could also be influenced by the lack of a real amp too. But I haven't heard a DAC in the sub $300 range that I enjoyed

The parasound DACs sounded great on a budget at around the 200-300 range depending on where you find them but they're incredibly rare and limiting in options

There's a lot of onboard which is actually engineered with the same or better specs than top quality audiophile gear for theater- it's rare that they have great headphone support, but it really depends on the engineer who designed it.  Rarely do they get the credit they would if they were making something for audiophiles.

Considering the dominant use of headsets for gaming I would think that a good headphone implementation would be worthwhile to a mobo manufacturer.

I'm not into theater much so I can't comment on that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 22 September 2015, 14:41:45
So I tried the bass shaker test on this: http://www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php (http://www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php)

and was wondering what they mean by "parasitic buzz/rattle". When I play it on my HD650 at fairly high volume (maybe 85ish dB) the really low bass sounds very rumbly (as in, oscillating, definitely not "smooth"), then the tone gets kind of smooth and clear, with a very slight rumble at the end of the frequency sweep (upper bass/lower mid).

I have no idea if that is normal, or a sign of actual poor excursion factor in the 650s. I think I hear a very faint buzz/whine at the very low frequencies, but not sure if that's something else.

Anyone with a decent pair of cans want to give that a try and see what they hear?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Draxor on Tue, 22 September 2015, 16:20:27
So I tried the bass shaker test on this: http://www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php (http://www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php)

and was wondering what they mean by "parasitic buzz/rattle". When I play it on my HD650 at fairly high volume (maybe 85ish dB) the really low bass sounds very rumbly (as in, oscillating, definitely not "smooth"), then the tone gets kind of smooth and clear, with a very slight rumble at the end of the frequency sweep (upper bass/lower mid).

I have no idea if that is normal, or a sign of actual poor excursion factor in the 650s. I think I hear a very faint buzz/whine at the very low frequencies, but not sure if that's something else.

Anyone with a decent pair of cans want to give that a try and see what they hear?

Checked it with M50x and K701 on an SMSL mini, i guess with rattle they mean if the drivers are mounted a little loosely and by buzz they probably mean distortion/static
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 22 September 2015, 16:22:35
lol the thing is I'm not sure if I am hearing rattle/buzz or just the nature of the test tone. The low bass sounds kind of like that feel you get under your ass when you rev a motorbike (but smoother/bassier, if that makes sense).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 22 September 2015, 16:24:07
So I tried the bass shaker test on this: http://www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php (http://www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php)

and was wondering what they mean by "parasitic buzz/rattle". When I play it on my HD650 at fairly high volume (maybe 85ish dB) the really low bass sounds very rumbly (as in, oscillating, definitely not "smooth"), then the tone gets kind of smooth and clear, with a very slight rumble at the end of the frequency sweep (upper bass/lower mid).

I have no idea if that is normal, or a sign of actual poor excursion factor in the 650s. I think I hear a very faint buzz/whine at the very low frequencies, but not sure if that's something else.

Anyone with a decent pair of cans want to give that a try and see what they hear?

no rattle on my HE560s and 400i :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: godly_music on Tue, 22 September 2015, 16:26:17
The bass test is meant to detect stuff like hair stuck in the driver, which will sound like a white distortion kind of rattle accompanying a certain bass frequency, similar to clipping. I wouldn't worry about the low bass not sounding perfectly smooth. You'll know the rattle when you hear it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 22 September 2015, 16:27:11
So I tried the bass shaker test on this: http://www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php (http://www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php)

and was wondering what they mean by "parasitic buzz/rattle". When I play it on my HD650 at fairly high volume (maybe 85ish dB) the really low bass sounds very rumbly (as in, oscillating, definitely not "smooth"), then the tone gets kind of smooth and clear, with a very slight rumble at the end of the frequency sweep (upper bass/lower mid).

I have no idea if that is normal, or a sign of actual poor excursion factor in the 650s. I think I hear a very faint buzz/whine at the very low frequencies, but not sure if that's something else.

Anyone with a decent pair of cans want to give that a try and see what they hear?

no rattle on my HE560s and 400i :thumb:
Planars have almost no excursion thanks to their design... any results with dynamic cans?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Draxor on Tue, 22 September 2015, 16:29:18
definitely nature of the test tone, it is 'shaky' in the beginning and end on higher volumes, I'm pretty sure it's supposed to be like that

The bass test is meant to detect stuff like hair stuck in the driver, which will sound like a white distortion kind of rattle accompanying a certain bass frequency, similar to clipping. I wouldn't worry about the low bass not sounding perfectly smooth. You'll know the rattle when you hear it.

Dingdingding! Most likely the answer, had some dust or hair on a driver in my old 612 Pros and it made a distinct crackling
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 22 September 2015, 16:34:32
Didn't get any rattle with my Philips Fidelio x2s either
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 22 September 2015, 20:04:14
definitely nature of the test tone, it is 'shaky' in the beginning and end on higher volumes, I'm pretty sure it's supposed to be like that

The bass test is meant to detect stuff like hair stuck in the driver, which will sound like a white distortion kind of rattle accompanying a certain bass frequency, similar to clipping. I wouldn't worry about the low bass not sounding perfectly smooth. You'll know the rattle when you hear it.

Dingdingding! Most likely the answer, had some dust or hair on a driver in my old 612 Pros and it made a distinct crackling

Thanks for the confirmation. I already took apart the phones and blew off any excess dust before I ran the test.

Now to find a Denon AHD2000 in Canada... :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 23 September 2015, 07:23:32
definitely nature of the test tone, it is 'shaky' in the beginning and end on higher volumes, I'm pretty sure it's supposed to be like that

The bass test is meant to detect stuff like hair stuck in the driver, which will sound like a white distortion kind of rattle accompanying a certain bass frequency, similar to clipping. I wouldn't worry about the low bass not sounding perfectly smooth. You'll know the rattle when you hear it.

Dingdingding! Most likely the answer, had some dust or hair on a driver in my old 612 Pros and it made a distinct crackling

Thanks for the confirmation. I already took apart the phones and blew off any excess dust before I ran the test.

Now to find a Denon AHD2000 in Canada... :/

What did you use for dusting the headphones?

If i learned anything from camera maintenance is that human breath is pretty bad and compressed air is even worse (leaves a residue and is pretty strong so you can damage, displace or push things where they shouldn't be)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 23 September 2015, 07:34:54
definitely nature of the test tone, it is 'shaky' in the beginning and end on higher volumes, I'm pretty sure it's supposed to be like that

The bass test is meant to detect stuff like hair stuck in the driver, which will sound like a white distortion kind of rattle accompanying a certain bass frequency, similar to clipping. I wouldn't worry about the low bass not sounding perfectly smooth. You'll know the rattle when you hear it.

Dingdingding! Most likely the answer, had some dust or hair on a driver in my old 612 Pros and it made a distinct crackling

Thanks for the confirmation. I already took apart the phones and blew off any excess dust before I ran the test.

Now to find a Denon AHD2000 in Canada... :/

What did you use for dusting the headphones?

If i learned anything from camera maintenance is that human breath is pretty bad and compressed air is even worse (leaves a residue and is pretty strong so you can damage, displace or push things where they shouldn't be)
Compressed air. It actually depressed the diaphragm lol but I blew from the opposite side and popped it out. I'm not worried. I don't hear any damage and my perceived "rattle" was from before the clean.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 23 September 2015, 08:54:50
definitely nature of the test tone, it is 'shaky' in the beginning and end on higher volumes, I'm pretty sure it's supposed to be like that

The bass test is meant to detect stuff like hair stuck in the driver, which will sound like a white distortion kind of rattle accompanying a certain bass frequency, similar to clipping. I wouldn't worry about the low bass not sounding perfectly smooth. You'll know the rattle when you hear it.

Dingdingding! Most likely the answer, had some dust or hair on a driver in my old 612 Pros and it made a distinct crackling

Thanks for the confirmation. I already took apart the phones and blew off any excess dust before I ran the test.

Now to find a Denon AHD2000 in Canada... :/

What did you use for dusting the headphones?

If i learned anything from camera maintenance is that human breath is pretty bad and compressed air is even worse (leaves a residue and is pretty strong so you can damage, displace or push things where they shouldn't be)
Compressed air. It actually depressed the diaphragm lol but I blew from the opposite side and popped it out. I'm not worried. I don't hear any damage and my perceived "rattle" was from before the clean.


Sucks that you have a rattle. Try asking sennheiser about a repair?

They have an office here in Montreal even.


Also on a really ****ty note I seem to be having acute hearing loss in my left ear in the treble range. Hopefully it's either temporary or just some wax...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 23 September 2015, 08:57:15
Sucks that you have a rattle. Try asking sennheiser about a repair?

They have an office here in Montreal even.


Also on a really ****ty note I seem to be having acute hearing loss in my left ear in the treble range. Hopefully it's either temporary or just some wax...

I don't think it's a rattle after reading that Draxor also noted the "shaking" - I can't hear any rattle from any normal track, but I heard a "rumble" and some super faint buzz on that one test tone (so could just be my ears and the nature of the test tone being shaky). I'm just not sure what a "rattle" is supposed to sound like, since it's such a generic term.

Sorry to hear about the hearing loss - I notice my right ear also seems to be slightly more sensitive than my left.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dgneo on Wed, 23 September 2015, 09:07:19
Here's a (quite old) photo of my headphone setup:

(http://i.imgur.com/np2KFNR.jpg)

Still have the headphones sitting next to me at work, and they sound fantastic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 23 September 2015, 09:12:58
Here's a (quite old) photo of my headphone setup:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/np2KFNR.jpg)


Still have the headphones sitting next to me at work, and they sound fantastic.

Nice!
I really liked the ESW11LTD

Haven't tried the 10JPN though

How are you likingthe ESW9? I never had much time with it. I felt it was a touch muddy but my friend had been playing around with mods onhis pair so I really have no idea how it sounds stock.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 23 September 2015, 09:15:07
Sucks that you have a rattle. Try asking sennheiser about a repair?

They have an office here in Montreal even.


Also on a really ****ty note I seem to be having acute hearing loss in my left ear in the treble range. Hopefully it's either temporary or just some wax...

I don't think it's a rattle after reading that Draxor also noted the "shaking" - I can't hear any rattle from any normal track, but I heard a "rumble" and some super faint buzz on that one test tone (so could just be my ears and the nature of the test tone being shaky). I'm just not sure what a "rattle" is supposed to sound like, since it's such a generic term.

Sorry to hear about the hearing loss - I notice my right ear also seems to be slightly more sensitive than my left.

Rattle is something I attribute more to the housing from the vibrations.

And I've always had some problems with pressure in my inner ear so maybe it's just a bit off right now. Going to clean out my ears tomorrow to check that. I have to schedule an appointment with an audiologist to get earmolds done for the K10 again but if my hearing loss is this bad in my left ear I don't have much motivation to spend more money on audio =/

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dgneo on Wed, 23 September 2015, 09:45:34
Here's a (quite old) photo of my headphone setup:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/np2KFNR.jpg)


Still have the headphones sitting next to me at work, and they sound fantastic.

Nice!
I really liked the ESW11LTD

Haven't tried the 10JPN though

How are you likingthe ESW9? I never had much time with it. I felt it was a touch muddy but my friend had been playing around with mods onhis pair so I really have no idea how it sounds stock.

I love them. So far, they're the only pair of headphones I've held onto for longer than a year (other than my Grado SR80i's, which I traded recently, I've had these about 3 years now). I did Germania's Mod to them (http://www.head-fi.org/t/383257/germania-s-audio-technica-esw9-mod-s) and it improved the bass/soundstage a TON. They're super comfortable to wear as well, which is a huge plus.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 23 September 2015, 09:54:13
Sucks that you have a rattle. Try asking sennheiser about a repair?

They have an office here in Montreal even.


Also on a really ****ty note I seem to be having acute hearing loss in my left ear in the treble range. Hopefully it's either temporary or just some wax...

I don't think it's a rattle after reading that Draxor also noted the "shaking" - I can't hear any rattle from any normal track, but I heard a "rumble" and some super faint buzz on that one test tone (so could just be my ears and the nature of the test tone being shaky). I'm just not sure what a "rattle" is supposed to sound like, since it's such a generic term.

Sorry to hear about the hearing loss - I notice my right ear also seems to be slightly more sensitive than my left.

Rattle is something I attribute more to the housing from the vibrations.

And I've always had some problems with pressure in my inner ear so maybe it's just a bit off right now. Going to clean out my ears tomorrow to check that. I have to schedule an appointment with an audiologist to get earmolds done for the K10 again but if my hearing loss is this bad in my left ear I don't have much motivation to spend more money on audio =/



I am sorry to hear about your hearing.  My wife says I have hearing loss- should probably get that checked officially myself, but I can hear very very soft sounds and always listen to music well below the normal listening threshold.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 23 September 2015, 10:04:16
Sucks that you have a rattle. Try asking sennheiser about a repair?

They have an office here in Montreal even.


Also on a really ****ty note I seem to be having acute hearing loss in my left ear in the treble range. Hopefully it's either temporary or just some wax...

I don't think it's a rattle after reading that Draxor also noted the "shaking" - I can't hear any rattle from any normal track, but I heard a "rumble" and some super faint buzz on that one test tone (so could just be my ears and the nature of the test tone being shaky). I'm just not sure what a "rattle" is supposed to sound like, since it's such a generic term.

Sorry to hear about the hearing loss - I notice my right ear also seems to be slightly more sensitive than my left.

Rattle is something I attribute more to the housing from the vibrations.

And I've always had some problems with pressure in my inner ear so maybe it's just a bit off right now. Going to clean out my ears tomorrow to check that. I have to schedule an appointment with an audiologist to get earmolds done for the K10 again but if my hearing loss is this bad in my left ear I don't have much motivation to spend more money on audio =/



I am sorry to hear about your hearing.  My wife says I have hearing loss- should probably get that checked officially myself, but I can hear very very soft sounds and always listen to music well below the normal listening threshold.

I listen well under threshold too.

Since a young age I've had problems with pressure in my ears due to allergies blocking the eustachian (did I spell that right?) tubes.

Hopefully it's temporary. Will update once I clean my ears but it hasn't been that long since my last cleaning.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 23 September 2015, 10:05:26
Here's a (quite old) photo of my headphone setup:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/np2KFNR.jpg)


Still have the headphones sitting next to me at work, and they sound fantastic.

Nice!
I really liked the ESW11LTD

Haven't tried the 10JPN though

How are you likingthe ESW9? I never had much time with it. I felt it was a touch muddy but my friend had been playing around with mods onhis pair so I really have no idea how it sounds stock.

I love them. So far, they're the only pair of headphones I've held onto for longer than a year (other than my Grado SR80i's, which I traded recently, I've had these about 3 years now). I did Germania's Mod to them (http://www.head-fi.org/t/383257/germania-s-audio-technica-esw9-mod-s) and it improved the bass/soundstage a TON. They're super comfortable to wear as well, which is a huge plus.

That sounds good. I think it was the mids that needed improvement IMO

anyway, as long as it sounds good to you that's what matters!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Wed, 23 September 2015, 14:47:45
I've had my Qpad QH-85 headset (basically Takstar 2050 with a mic) for like four years now. The earpads were getting a bit too flat so I decided to get some new ones (http://www.mp4nation.net/brainwavz-angled-memory-foam-earpad-black-velour-suitable-for-large-over-the-ear-headphones). I went with the angled ones and they're very comfortable :)
(http://i.imgur.com/11NkFjG.jpg)
New on the left, old on the right.

Bass is better now which sort of surprised me but I guess they do a better job at isolating the sound than my old earpads.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 23 September 2015, 15:12:50
I've had my Qpad QH-85 headset (basically Takstar 2050 with a mic) for like four years now. The earpads were getting a bit too flat so I decided to get some new ones (http://www.mp4nation.net/brainwavz-angled-memory-foam-earpad-black-velour-suitable-for-large-over-the-ear-headphones). I went with the angled ones and they're very comfortable :)
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/11NkFjG.jpg)

New on the left, old on the right.

Bass is better now which sort of surprised me but I guess they do a better job at isolating the sound than my old earpads.

Different materials have different properties and can seal better!

I tried alpha pads on the W3000anv and the bass improved a ton and brought the mids back into proper range but ruined the treble =S

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 24 September 2015, 15:09:11
(http://i.imgur.com/6Q3W0LE.png)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 24 September 2015, 15:12:30
FINALLY
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 24 September 2015, 16:27:05
FINALLY

I've aged considerably while this has remained a relatively "new" piece of technology. lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Thu, 24 September 2015, 16:55:31
FINALLY

I've aged considerably while this has remained a relatively "new" piece of technology. lol

What's that for?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 24 September 2015, 17:16:06
FINALLY

I've aged considerably while this has remained a relatively "new" piece of technology. lol

What's that for?

I backed a product on indiegogo back in 2013,

http://marketplace.lhlabs.com/products/pulse-xfi-dac-headphone-amplifier
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Thu, 24 September 2015, 18:28:07
Holy crap, that thing is spendy :o
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 24 September 2015, 18:44:04
Holy crap, that thing is spendy :o

If I'm thinking of the same project it was a lot cheaper through the backing
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 24 September 2015, 21:51:02
Holy crap, that thing is spendy :o

If I'm thinking of the same project it was a lot cheaper through the backing

Right you are- I'd never pay full MSRP for this thing without listening to it first.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Thu, 24 September 2015, 21:54:49
FINALLY

I've aged considerably while this has remained a relatively "new" piece of technology. lol

What's that for?

I backed a product on indiegogo back in 2013,

http://marketplace.lhlabs.com/products/pulse-xfi-dac-headphone-amplifier

Jeeeeez. That thing looks DOPE. But holy crap $2400.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 24 September 2015, 22:17:09
Holy crap, that thing is spendy :o

If I'm thinking of the same project it was a lot cheaper through the backing

Right you are- I'd never pay full MSRP for this thing without listening to it first.

Wasn't it like $600? xD

I didn't feel like backing it

I don't think they were  doing anything extremely unique either were they?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 24 September 2015, 22:31:59
Holy crap, that thing is spendy :o

If I'm thinking of the same project it was a lot cheaper through the backing

Right you are- I'd never pay full MSRP for this thing without listening to it first.

Wasn't it like $600? xD

I didn't feel like backing it

I don't think they were  doing anything extremely unique either were they?

It's a 3W amp/dac that does DSD and has a lot of useful I/O.  For $600 backing price it is not too hard to want to pick up given the features.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 24 September 2015, 23:09:49
Holy crap, that thing is spendy :o

If I'm thinking of the same project it was a lot cheaper through the backing

Right you are- I'd never pay full MSRP for this thing without listening to it first.

Wasn't it like $600? xD

I didn't feel like backing it

I don't think they were  doing anything extremely unique either were they?

It's a 3W amp/dac that does DSD and has a lot of useful I/O.  For $600 backing price it is not too hard to want to pick up given the features.

I mean the backing price was definitely better than a lot of similar options on the market. Tell us how it sounds! (once you get it)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 28 September 2015, 09:56:04
Holy crap, that thing is spendy :o

If I'm thinking of the same project it was a lot cheaper through the backing

Right you are- I'd never pay full MSRP for this thing without listening to it first.

Wasn't it like $600? xD

I didn't feel like backing it

I don't think they were  doing anything extremely unique either were they?

It's a 3W amp/dac that does DSD and has a lot of useful I/O.  For $600 backing price it is not too hard to want to pick up given the features.

I mean the backing price was definitely better than a lot of similar options on the market. Tell us how it sounds! (once you get it)

Very clear- very resolving.  The positive effect of the wattage of the unit is very apparent with my HE-560s.  The soundstage feels wider in blind tests.  I was able to determine the pulse by sound-stage alone in those tests between the Pulse, O2/Odac, and Aune T1.

As for a DAC I really can't tell the difference unless what I'm hearing out of the amp is a result of the DAC's engineering.  From what I've heard of planars being run through higher wattage amps (even used at lower volumes) the higher performance is relative to the amount of amps on tap which the lower power voltage domain amps just do not have.

I'm very happy to get this at the campaign price.  If I were offered the same unit at full retail I don't think I would bite.  As feature rich as it is... I just can't justify the cost for the performance gains.  Considering I only paid twice as much as a totally pimped out O2/ODAC I'm pretty happy even though I didn't get what I would consider to be 2x performance gains.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blueangel2323 on Mon, 28 September 2015, 21:18:55
My main headphones are a pair of Sennheiser HD600, driven by a Yulong DA8 DAC & amp. I also have Shure SRH440 for studio and a set of custom IEMs from Cosmic Ears (CE4P) for the stage. I go by the same username over at the Head-Fi forums. Yep, another expensive hobby.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 03 October 2015, 01:04:26
Got my GeekPulse from LH Labs yesterday. I just hooked it up and the initial impressions on the dac are really good. I haven't tested the headphone amplifier portion at all just yet but current I am running usb to the pulse then RCA to my WA7 Fireflies then finally to my HD650s. I was very impressed I could actually tell when Spotify did not have a full 320kpbs version of a particular song. The sound stage seems to have opened up just a tad and I hear a bit more of the highs making things sound a little more clear.

Definitely an improvement on the existing dac inside the WA7.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 03 October 2015, 08:18:18
Was thinking of getting a small amp + passive speaker combo to complete my desktop audio, but got real tired of the endless search and near misses (missed an Usher S-520). So, I gave up and bought a 2.0 pair that appealed to me aesthetically.....though it isn't known for having great sound. I decided on a Focal XS Book 2.0 system to go with my Oppo HA-1. I must say, it sounds pretty good for a 2.0......yes, not headphone related, but at least audio related. I'm being perhaps shallow with this purchase preferring form over function, but hey, I think it looks good.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/003_zpsiurgtutz.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 03 October 2015, 10:42:11
I dunno man, I've had those exact speakers and loved them and all the reviews I ever read were glowing as well.  I wouldn't say they aren't known for having great sound at all, either the specific line or especially the company that made them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 03 October 2015, 14:06:05
Was thinking of getting a small amp + passive speaker combo to complete my desktop audio, but got real tired of the endless search and near misses (missed an Usher S-520). So, I gave up and bought a 2.0 pair that appealed to me aesthetically.....though it isn't known for having great sound. I decided on a Focal XS Book 2.0 system to go with my Oppo HA-1. I must say, it sounds pretty good for a 2.0......yes, not headphone related, but at least audio related. I'm being perhaps shallow with this purchase preferring form over function, but hey, I think it looks good.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/003_zpsiurgtutz.jpg)


Is that a AKG K812 on your desk? If so, how do you like them? Is it as bright as people say (ie. Tyll)? And how does it compare to the HD-800?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 04 October 2015, 04:56:19
I dunno man, I've had those exact speakers and loved them and all the reviews I ever read were glowing as well.  I wouldn't say they aren't known for having great sound at all, either the specific line or especially the company that made them.
I guess I was rather ambiguous in my previous post, I wasn't saying that the Focal XS Book was bad, far from it actually. It was more that I was going all audio-feely thinking about buying a Ghent Audio ICEPower power amp (had a Calyx CTI in mind as well) + Usher S-520 (was also looking at the higher end Peachtree Audio DS5.5 bookshelf speakers. Ended up with a pair of powered speakers, so I felt I was being audio-feely enough. :-[ I've been listening to the XS Book the whole day and quite like its presentation of music, more neutral'ish highs, good mildly recessed mids with good amount of mid-bass thump.....though lower lows are rolled off. Played some games and I find it surprisingly great sounding with the XS Book.

Is that a AKG K812 on your desk? If so, how do you like them? Is it as bright as people say (ie. Tyll)? And how does it compare to the HD-800?
You're asking the wrong guy, I love sparkly highs! I don't find my earlier gen (serial number <10k) HD800 bright at all, yes, there's some extended treble but I wouldn't say it's at all bright. Same goes with the AKG K812 (serial number >12k), very nice sparkle, smaller soundstage than the HD800, great for more enclosed or intimate audio setting, like a Jazz club compared to the concert hall width and height of the HD800's soundstage. I can't say I prefer one over the other, both are awesome for different genres of music. BTW, I have a Grado GS1000i and an Audio Technica ATH-AD2000 and I would describe them as being quite sparkly, almost to the point of being bright.....almost, not quite. I did say I have a high tolerance for......well, highs. :D

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 05 October 2015, 20:02:11
Was in the mood for another IEM, but wanted something different from the IE800 and Fitear Parterre I already have. Saw a seller in the local forum selling his StageDiver 3 by InEar, did some research because I was intrigued by its resemblance to a CIEM. To cut a long story short, I snagged it.....the greenish (oxidized) cable in the background is its original cable. The seller gave me the Nocturnal Audio Quad29 cable to seal the deal.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/q2_zpsj69e6xdv.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blueangel2323 on Tue, 06 October 2015, 00:27:21
Was in the mood for another IEM, but wanted something different from the IE800 and Fitear Parterre I already have. Saw a seller in the local forum selling his StageDiver 3 by InEar, did some research because I was intrigued by its resemblance to a CIEM. To cut a long story short, I snagged it.....the greenish (oxidized) cable in the background is its original cable. The seller gave me the Nocturnal Audio Quad29 cable to seal the deal.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/q2_zpsj69e6xdv.jpg)

I found them pretty decent sounding, although imaging was a little blurry. I ended up selling them because there was something in the shell that hurt my ears after a while, and my real CIEMs arrived.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 06 October 2015, 03:40:10
I found them pretty decent sounding, although imaging was a little blurry. I ended up selling them because there was something in the shell that hurt my ears after a while, and my real CIEMs arrived.
True, they aren't as resolving as, say, my IE800, but its warm'ish sound does have its own charm. Also, you'd notice that I'm a universal fit guy, no custom jobs for me as I have no patient for more time off to haave an ear impression done, and the wait time for reshelling and such, simply not something I'd deal well with. Gonna find a nice silver core cable and see if it opens up the top end (highs) a little more.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 06 October 2015, 05:51:55
More of my purchases have turned up, some spikes and bases for my Oppo HA-1, as well as a pair of HE4....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/q6_zpsdp2lt6zx.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 06 October 2015, 08:27:48
Yea Pada, I'm never getting CIEMs again that's for sure.

I really should have gone for the universal nobles
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Tue, 06 October 2015, 08:57:40
What I'm using most days:

(http://i.imgur.com/wY454kG.jpg)

Think it may be time for a new cable. I firmly believe metal type affects sound as they attenuate differently, but I'm not a big believer in braided vs solid vs no o2, etc, so finding something reasonably priced with a silver core is my goal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 06 October 2015, 09:13:38
What I'm using most days:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/wY454kG.jpg)


Think it may be time for a new cable. I firmly believe metal type affects sound as they attenuate differently, but I'm not a big believer in braided vs solid vs no o2, etc, so finding something reasonably priced with a silver core is my goal.

I believe buying silver core cable in bulk is the best option. I wouldn't mind splitting an order. Different metals have different conductivity values so I can believe they change the sound. However I don't believe much in the braided vs solid thing either. (Also the 1p2 gold / silver cable is confusing to me)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 06 October 2015, 12:14:50
If you can do it yourself - http://www.ebay.com/sch/sis.html?_nkw=24+AWG+Silver+Teflon+Wire+Assortment+50+feet+19+strand&_id=231157003669&&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2658  All sorts of different gauge silver wire, old mil-stock.  I've used it before, it works great, it's a little stiff on its own though because of the teflon coating.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 06 October 2015, 12:29:53
If you can do it yourself - http://www.ebay.com/sch/sis.html?_nkw=24+AWG+Silver+Teflon+Wire+Assortment+50+feet+19+strand&_id=231157003669&&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2658  All sorts of different gauge silver wire, old mil-stock.  I've used it before, it works great, it's a little stiff on its own though because of the teflon coating.

did you take a specific size / thickness?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 06 October 2015, 12:35:21
If you can do it yourself - http://www.ebay.com/sch/sis.html?_nkw=24+AWG+Silver+Teflon+Wire+Assortment+50+feet+19+strand&_id=231157003669&&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2658  All sorts of different gauge silver wire, old mil-stock.  I've used it before, it works great, it's a little stiff on its own though because of the teflon coating.

did you take a specific size / thickness?

I've used the 24, 26 and 28 in different circumstances for each.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 06 October 2015, 13:09:33
If you can do it yourself - http://www.ebay.com/sch/sis.html?_nkw=24+AWG+Silver+Teflon+Wire+Assortment+50+feet+19+strand&_id=231157003669&&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2658  All sorts of different gauge silver wire, old mil-stock.  I've used it before, it works great, it's a little stiff on its own though because of the teflon coating.

did you take a specific size / thickness?

I've used the 24, 26 and 28 in different circumstances for each.

Stranded or single?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 06 October 2015, 13:29:02
If you can do it yourself - http://www.ebay.com/sch/sis.html?_nkw=24+AWG+Silver+Teflon+Wire+Assortment+50+feet+19+strand&_id=231157003669&&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2658  All sorts of different gauge silver wire, old mil-stock.  I've used it before, it works great, it's a little stiff on its own though because of the teflon coating.

did you take a specific size / thickness?

I've used the 24, 26 and 28 in different circumstances for each.

Stranded or single?

Stranded.  Single is way too stiff.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Tue, 06 October 2015, 21:35:59
My pair of TH-900's arrived today. SO good... sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 06 October 2015, 21:51:12
My pair of TH-900's arrived today. SO good... sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd...

Called it =P

Gratz on the purchase!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Tue, 06 October 2015, 21:58:51
Thank you. I'll do a write-up of my impressions later. But what I can say right now is, its greatest strength lies in the smoothness between the treble, mids, and bass. You don't hear 3 separate "entities" or bodies, but they all just blend in really well together in these headphones. It's precisely what drew me to these headphones when I listened to them a couple of years ago at a head-fi meet, and thankfully, it's still as I remembered today.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Wed, 07 October 2015, 00:10:11
Thinking of pulling the trigger on a pair of Ether C's. Very tempting... but i have too many headphones already
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 08 October 2015, 05:00:29
Just got the Focus Pads.......now I can spend more time with this baboy.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/q4_zpsuwsxbzqy.jpg)

Also got my Effect Audio Thor Silver 8W, along with the free Fiio E07K
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/q1_zpsxbhxlkmc.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 08 October 2015, 11:32:46
NEXT MONTH. CIEMS. dunno who to go with, probably noble.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 08 October 2015, 15:06:29
NEXT MONTH. CIEMS. dunno who to go with, probably noble.

Nobl r guut
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 08 October 2015, 17:28:59
NEXT MONTH. CIEMS. dunno who to go with, probably noble.

I've got some JHA Angie's. Perhaps take into consideration the Angie or Layla
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 08 October 2015, 17:42:33
NEXT MONTH. CIEMS. dunno who to go with, probably noble.

I've got some JHA Angie's. Perhaps take into consideration the Angie or Layla

heard some bad stuff about jh customer support or whatever
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 08 October 2015, 18:07:27
NEXT MONTH. CIEMS. dunno who to go with, probably noble.

I've got some JHA Angie's. Perhaps take into consideration the Angie or Layla

heard some bad stuff about jh customer support or whatever

They've tried to fix that recently with the new boss or whatever. Their products are great though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 08 October 2015, 21:03:03
Product is great, CS is still garbage.  Go UE or noble.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 08 October 2015, 21:04:20
UE cheapest is like standard entry ciem price with 0 customization. GO CHINA
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blueangel2323 on Fri, 09 October 2015, 00:32:01
I wouldn't consider UE cheap. There are smaller companies with much more inexpensive models, like 1964Ears, Cosmic Ears, etc.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 09 October 2015, 00:35:27
I wouldn't consider UE cheap. There are smaller companies with much more inexpensive models, like 1964Ears, Cosmic Ears, etc.

I would go 1964 for full customization. but idk if I wanna be THAT rice. noble seems the best in between option of design and quality.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Fri, 09 October 2015, 01:21:45
I got my UERMs last week that I ordered through Massdrop. They're great. My only complaint is lack of customization on these >.<

(http://i.imgur.com/a6GEwCB.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 09 October 2015, 01:24:25
I got my UERMs last week that I ordered through Massdrop. They're great. My only complaint is lack of customization on these >.<

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/a6GEwCB.jpg)


exaaactly. nice get though!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Fri, 09 October 2015, 01:26:53
I got my UERMs last week that I ordered through Massdrop. They're great. My only complaint is lack of customization on these >.<

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/a6GEwCB.jpg)


exaaactly. nice get though!

All their other ciems seem to be customizable. When Massdrop had the UE 18 buy, those had options for customization too. Not sure why the UERMs are the exception :<

And thanks!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 09 October 2015, 17:36:13
customizable CIEMs are neat in a way, but I realized I spent too much on making mine look badass.

(http://i.imgur.com/O9OospT.png)

never look at them while listening to music, and they're usually in their case so I don't look at them there either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 09 October 2015, 18:02:13
customizable CIEMs are neat in a way, but I realized I spent too much on making mine look badass.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/O9OospT.png)


never look at them while listening to music, and they're usually in their case so I don't look at them there either.

I know exactly how you feel hehe
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 18 October 2015, 17:07:26
Massdrop O2+ODAC or Schiit M2/M2 guize they're like the same price for me
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Sun, 18 October 2015, 19:34:05
Massdrop O2+ODAC or Schiit M2/M2 guize they're like the same price for me

Get an O2/ODAC from from somewhere else. You don't want to wait til the 30th of November for it to be shipped.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 18 October 2015, 22:52:59
Massdrop O2+ODAC or Schiit M2/M2 guize they're like the same price for me

you don't need either :P

if you're going to splurge on a DAC/amp combo, at least go O2-ODAC with all the bells and whistles, or the Schiit Uber Stack. That way you can hook speakers up to your amp.

I'm waiting for JDS Labs to add preamps to my O2/ODAC - finally, no more switching back and forth between outputs! The little victories in life... but cost money...  :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 18 October 2015, 23:01:56
Massdrop O2+ODAC or Schiit M2/M2 guize they're like the same price for me

m/m2 u
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 20 October 2015, 22:52:58
http://www.monoprice.com/product?c_id=109&cp_id=10919&cs_id=1091903&p_id=13807&seq=1&format=2

Anyone else curious?

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Tue, 20 October 2015, 23:03:57
http://www.monoprice.com/product?c_id=109&cp_id=10919&cs_id=1091903&p_id=13807&seq=1&format=2

Anyone else curious?

Ooh, havent seen that before.. Very curious! Seems rather cheap for all of that.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 20 October 2015, 23:09:53
http://www.monoprice.com/product?c_id=109&cp_id=10919&cs_id=1091903&p_id=13807&seq=1&format=2

Anyone else curious?

Ooh, havent seen that before.. Very curious! Seems rather cheap for all of that.

Just released. Has a headphone out as well. The amp is sold individually for $150 or with this bundle. I would still highly recommend getting a sub to go with this
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blueangel2323 on Thu, 22 October 2015, 22:47:47
http://www.monoprice.com/product?c_id=109&cp_id=10919&cs_id=1091903&p_id=13807&seq=1&format=2

Anyone else curious?
Looks soooo beautiful. I wonder how good it sounds for only $200. Monoprice tends to have very good price to performance ratio, even if they can't/don't compete with high end.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 23 October 2015, 19:10:12
http://www.monoprice.com/product?c_id=109&cp_id=10919&cs_id=1091903&p_id=13807&seq=1&format=2

Anyone else curious?
Looks soooo beautiful. I wonder how good it sounds for only $200. Monoprice tends to have very good price to performance ratio, even if they can't/don't compete with high end.

Exactly. I'm really tempted to get it. Worse case scenario I just have a cheap bookshelf setup for my computer..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RenegadeParadox on Sun, 01 November 2015, 20:12:09
Beyerdynamic DT-990 Pro 250 OHM driven by Schiit Modi/Vali combo. Took me a long time to decide on them and have been very please with it. I might want to get a set of Sennheiser HD650s in the future but the DT990s have served me very well the past 2 years.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alexjd99 on Sun, 01 November 2015, 20:14:01
ATH M50x and a Fiio E10K
So unique I know
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 01 November 2015, 20:46:13
ATH M50x and a Fiio E10K
So unique I know

all things considered, the m50x has really good subbass, and it digs down really low.

if you like the sound signature, you could see if you can score the unicorn known as the Denon AHD-2000 as a potential upgrade.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: alexjd99 on Sun, 01 November 2015, 20:51:16
ATH M50x and a Fiio E10K
So unique I know

all things considered, the m50x has really subbass, and it digs down really low.

if you like the sound signature, you could see if you can score the unicorn known as the Denon AHD-2000 as a potential upgrade.
Yeah, I was looking to upgrade soon, and I do like the sound of these.
Thanks for the recommendation :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sun, 01 November 2015, 20:57:06
Beyerdynamic DT-990 Pro 250 OHM driven by Schiit Modi/Vali combo. Took me a long time to decide on them and have been very please with it. I might want to get a set of Sennheiser HD650s in the future but the DT990s have served me very well the past 2 years.

Nice! I've got those exact same headphones, and I'm hoping to get a Magni2/Modi2 combo for my new house :) I'm glad you like the setup, promising for me :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 01 November 2015, 21:01:06
ATH M50x and a Fiio E10K
So unique I know

all things considered, the m50x has really subbass, and it digs down really low.

if you like the sound signature, you could see if you can score the unicorn known as the Denon AHD-2000 as a potential upgrade.
Yeah, I was looking to upgrade soon, and I do like the sound of these.
Thanks for the recommendation :thumb:

np. bear in mind that when I said unicorn, I meant they are discontinued :( you'll have to search far and wide to find one in good condition.

just a heads up - if treble bothers you, you may find the denon's a bit tiring; for me, they are fine.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 01 November 2015, 21:06:45
ATH M50x and a Fiio E10K
So unique I know

all things considered, the m50x has really good subbass, and it digs down really low.

if you like the sound signature, you could see if you can score the unicorn known as the Denon AHD-2000 as a potential upgrade.

I wouldn't call the D2000 anything close to the M50x

the M50x tends closer to the colder side and quite neutral.

The D2000 is quite mid-bass centric
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 01 November 2015, 21:14:42

I wouldn't call the D2000 anything close to the M50x

the M50x tends closer to the colder side and quite neutral.

The D2000 is quite mid-bass centric

i've heard both and i hear it differently; my d2000 is much more  subbass focused than midbass.

in either case i was referring specifically to their bass feel. very subwoofer like.



Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 01 November 2015, 22:31:51

I wouldn't call the D2000 anything close to the M50x

the M50x tends closer to the colder side and quite neutral.

The D2000 is quite mid-bass centric

i've heard both and i hear it differently; my d2000 is much more  subbass focused than midbass.

in either case i was referring specifically to their bass feel. very subwoofer like.

Maybe it depends on the player but I noticed it with both the D2000 / D5000

Extension was good in the bass but the bass itself was bloated / loose and the mid bass bump was quite significant
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Mon, 02 November 2015, 09:42:34
Oh man, all this awesome headphone hardware being discussed...

I've only used IEMs for the past few years, even gave away my WooAudio/HD650 setup a while back to a friend. Currently looking at a Fireflies for my desktop since I'm not really looking for another set of full-sized cans in the near future. Probably a couple months away from making a decision.

I sometimes wish I had gone the CIEM route considering what I paid for my first week 846 SEs, but I have zero regrets on how they sound. I'm also one of those people who can wear pretty much any IEM comfortably with just a tip change.

Currently, my Shures are plugged directly into my Surface Pro 4. Which has a surprisingly decent DAC for what it is :) But looking for a new mobile setup that won't break the bank. Thinking of going the JDS route.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 02 November 2015, 09:56:05
Oh man, all this awesome headphone hardware being discussed...

I've only used IEMs for the past few years, even gave away my WooAudio/HD650 setup a while back to a friend. Currently looking at a Fireflies for my desktop since I'm not really looking for another set of full-sized cans in the near future. Probably a couple months away from making a decision.

I sometimes wish I had gone the CIEM route considering what I paid for my first week 846 SEs, but I have zero regrets on how they sound. I'm also one of those people who can wear pretty much any IEM comfortably with just a tip change.

Currently, my Shures are plugged directly into my Surface Pro 4. Which has a surprisingly decent DAC for what it is :) But looking for a new mobile setup that won't break the bank. Thinking of going the JDS route.

Mobile?

I'd go fiio personally.
I enjoyed the X5gen1 and I'm getting the review model of the X7 but that's more expensive.
I absolutely love the AK240 though but I have a feeling that's over your budget.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Mon, 02 November 2015, 11:27:36
Oh man, all this awesome headphone hardware being discussed...

I've only used IEMs for the past few years, even gave away my WooAudio/HD650 setup a while back to a friend. Currently looking at a Fireflies for my desktop since I'm not really looking for another set of full-sized cans in the near future. Probably a couple months away from making a decision.

I sometimes wish I had gone the CIEM route considering what I paid for my first week 846 SEs, but I have zero regrets on how they sound. I'm also one of those people who can wear pretty much any IEM comfortably with just a tip change.

Currently, my Shures are plugged directly into my Surface Pro 4. Which has a surprisingly decent DAC for what it is :) But looking for a new mobile setup that won't break the bank. Thinking of going the JDS route.

Mobile?

I'd go fiio personally.
I enjoyed the X5gen1 and I'm getting the review model of the X7 but that's more expensive.
I absolutely love the AK240 though but I have a feeling that's over your budget.

Just looking for DAC/Amp combo, not a source, so the 240 is definitely not something I'm looking at. I had looked at it when it came out, but I was looking for sources then. If I was getting a source, I'd likely get the x5; it hits all the features I'd be looking for.

So, since I'm looking at DAC/Amp combos, I've been eyeing JDS, something like the Element. But I'm always open to suggestions :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 02 November 2015, 11:31:43
Oh man, all this awesome headphone hardware being discussed...

I've only used IEMs for the past few years, even gave away my WooAudio/HD650 setup a while back to a friend. Currently looking at a Fireflies for my desktop since I'm not really looking for another set of full-sized cans in the near future. Probably a couple months away from making a decision.

I sometimes wish I had gone the CIEM route considering what I paid for my first week 846 SEs, but I have zero regrets on how they sound. I'm also one of those people who can wear pretty much any IEM comfortably with just a tip change.

Currently, my Shures are plugged directly into my Surface Pro 4. Which has a surprisingly decent DAC for what it is :) But looking for a new mobile setup that won't break the bank. Thinking of going the JDS route.

Mobile?

I'd go fiio personally.
I enjoyed the X5gen1 and I'm getting the review model of the X7 but that's more expensive.
I absolutely love the AK240 though but I have a feeling that's over your budget.

Just looking for DAC/Amp combo, not a source, so the 240 is definitely not something I'm looking at. I had looked at it when it came out, but I was looking for sources then. If I was getting a source, I'd likely get the x5; it hits all the features I'd be looking for.

So, since I'm looking at DAC/Amp combos, I've been eyeing JDS, something like the Element. But I'm always open to suggestions :)

I like the sources that can function as dac/amp combos. Fiio is very good value and if ever you need a source, bam, it's ready.

I disliked the ODAC. Sounded very sharp and electronic compared to other dacs I've used. Reminds me a lot of decent phone dacs (not the ****ty ones that just muddle everything together).

The O2 was decent and did help in getting more power into my headphones.

However the O2 is quite dependent on the source. It did not pair that well with the CLAS and would sometimes clip because of it. However I haven't heard of others getting that issue so maybe it was isolated to specific pairings.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 02 November 2015, 11:51:43
However the O2 is quite dependent on the source. It did not pair that well with the CLAS and would sometimes clip because of it. However I haven't heard of others getting that issue so maybe it was isolated to specific pairings.

Yes, it is due to "pairings", in some sense: the clipping is due to the gain settings of the O2. The "standard" gain is 2.5x/6.5x; 6.5x will clip with any DAC which outputs >1 VRMS.

Most DACs are about 2VRMS output, so a better gain setting is 1x/3.3x gain.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: RenegadeParadox on Mon, 02 November 2015, 18:43:30
Beyerdynamic DT-990 Pro 250 OHM driven by Schiit Modi/Vali combo. Took me a long time to decide on them and have been very please with it. I might want to get a set of Sennheiser HD650s in the future but the DT990s have served me very well the past 2 years.

Nice! I've got those exact same headphones, and I'm hoping to get a Magni2/Modi2 combo for my new house :) I'm glad you like the setup, promising for me :)

I can't recommend Schiit more. They make great products, are very knowledgeable and helpful if you ever have any questions or issues. I didn't even see that they made a second generation of M/M looks really nice!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sitch on Mon, 02 November 2015, 20:47:32
Owned a pair of old school ultimate ears triple fi with some custom cable *not sure of which brand*, and recently gotten an ath m50x.

Triple fi had serve me well for many years, gym jogging you name it. Treble , bass are very good with this earphone.

ATH m50x, it shows what sound stage really means. It has very wide sound stage yet the treble and bass wasnt compromised. Downside is that it not really that mobile

DAC - Fiio X3. TBH, I don't hear any difference compared to clip zip that I used to own :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: clochette on Tue, 03 November 2015, 05:07:35
repost from the media thread

HD700 and UM3x
(http://i.imgur.com/iWDIr4b.jpg)

anyone recommend me a DAC/AMP combo for the HD700? budget of usd150

bottlehead crack is nice but kinda out of my budget

i'm fine with using a PC sound card as well tbh
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: KoalaKaiser on Tue, 03 November 2015, 10:36:46

HD700 and UM3x
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/iWDIr4b.jpg)




If you're looking for a tubey amp try the Little Dot Mk3. If not just he schiitstack can get the job done if needed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: KoalaKaiser on Tue, 03 November 2015, 10:40:10
My little corner of joy. HD 600, WA6 Modi. Not pictured I have a DT770 250ohm, RHA MA750s and a couple of other IEMs.

(http://i.imgur.com/euyNrzo.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Tue, 03 November 2015, 11:04:16
Seriously debating this DT-770 or DT-990 (http://slickdeals.net/f/8202791-beyerdynamic-headphones-250ohm-dt-770-closed-125-or-dt-990-open-125-each-after-30-rebate-free-shipping), but I don't have an amp and I'm not not sure it would be an improvement over my current headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 03 November 2015, 11:24:57
Seriously debating this DT-770 or DT-990 (http://slickdeals.net/f/8202791-beyerdynamic-headphones-250ohm-dt-770-closed-125-or-dt-990-open-125-each-after-30-rebate-free-shipping), but I don't have an amp and I'm not not sure it would be an improvement over my current headphones.

Your preferences will seriously impact whether you'll like them at all. Beyer has been a huge miss for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Tue, 03 November 2015, 11:27:24
I tried a DT-880 once and loved them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: edb5s on Tue, 03 November 2015, 11:29:14
Just got the Tascam TH02s. Have only used them on a flight but I like them so far. I'm thinking of buying an entry level DAC and amp. Any suggestions?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 03 November 2015, 11:36:25
I tried a DT-880 once and loved them.

If you liked the 880 there's a good chance you'll like the other ones if you're looking for something more colored with a similar house sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: KoalaKaiser on Tue, 03 November 2015, 11:42:26
Seriously debating this DT-770 or DT-990 (http://slickdeals.net/f/8202791-beyerdynamic-headphones-250ohm-dt-770-closed-125-or-dt-990-open-125-each-after-30-rebate-free-shipping), but I don't have an amp and I'm not not sure it would be an improvement over my current headphones.

What are your current cans? Also a schiit magni would suffice. Or an O2. Either of those drive cans of all ranges. Keeps the budget nice and low. I have the 770s and love the hell out of them. Makes action movies just that much better and gaming is great. The bass is fantastic and soundstage isn't that bad for a closed back.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nubbinator on Tue, 03 November 2015, 11:46:24
Koss Pro DJ100 and ATH-AD700.  I'm using an HT Omega Striker, but one of those two aren't too bad price wise.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: KoalaKaiser on Tue, 03 November 2015, 11:52:43
Have you checked avexchange over on reddit? I got my 600s and Dt770 together for $310. Both in perfect condition.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 03 November 2015, 12:23:31
Koss Pro DJ100 and ATH-AD700.  I'm using an HT Omega Striker, but one of those two aren't too bad price wise.

New headphones will definitely make the biggest change but I only see it as more of a side step than direct upgrade.

What are you looking to get from the headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Tue, 03 November 2015, 17:35:22
Just got the Tascam TH02s. Have only used them on a flight but I like them so far. I'm thinking of buying an entry level DAC and amp. Any suggestions?
I got a Fiio E10K (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2) a couple of weeks ago and it seriously improved the sound over the on-board soundcard on my cheap 5+ year old motherboard.
Bass and treble at high volumes is no longer distorted, my headphones can now get really loud, and the bass has improved significantly.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: edb5s on Tue, 03 November 2015, 18:04:34
Just got the Tascam TH02s. Have only used them on a flight but I like them so far. I'm thinking of buying an entry level DAC and amp. Any suggestions?
I got a Fiio E10K (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2) a couple of weeks ago and it seriously improved the sound over the on-board soundcard on my cheap 5+ year old motherboard.
Bass and treble at high volumes is no longer distorted, my headphones can now get really loud, and the bass has improved significantly.
Cool thanks for the input. I'll look into that one.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 03 November 2015, 18:07:09
Just got the Tascam TH02s. Have only used them on a flight but I like them so far. I'm thinking of buying an entry level DAC and amp. Any suggestions?
I got a Fiio E10K (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2) a couple of weeks ago and it seriously improved the sound over the on-board soundcard on my cheap 5+ year old motherboard.
Bass and treble at high volumes is no longer distorted, my headphones can now get really loud, and the bass has improved significantly.

this is pretty much how I felt getting my first real dac / amp combo.

Volume was never an issue for me since I don't listen to my music that loud but it's still something for me to consider.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pyrolovesmoney on Tue, 03 November 2015, 18:09:06
The best value headphone ever made, which I use daily is the JVC gumy plus 2. Best sound per dollar around.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pr0ximity on Wed, 04 November 2015, 06:14:15
Just got a pair of AKG K553's from the recent Massdrop sale. Was looking for something closed with low impedance for travelling and at work. To that end, very happy with them. They're way more analytical than my HD555's, but that's a nice change of pace. And they sound great straight from my iPod and work MBP, so mission accomplished.

Definitely need new pads though, I much prefer the velour of the HD555's. Anyone have recommendations on good pads? I hear Brainwavez thrown around a lot, but many of the headphone communities are basically echo chambers aside from sometimes head-fi, so it's tough to tell what's real sometimes.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Wed, 04 November 2015, 06:53:30
Just got a pair of AKG K553's from the recent Massdrop sale. Was looking for something closed with low impedance for travelling and at work. To that end, very happy with them. They're way more analytical than my HD555's, but that's a nice change of pace. And they sound great straight from my iPod and work MBP, so mission accomplished.

Definitely need new pads though, I much prefer the velour of the HD555's. Anyone have recommendations on good pads? I hear Brainwavez thrown around a lot, but many of the headphone communities are basically echo chambers aside from sometimes head-fi, so it's tough to tell what's real sometimes.

I have the full pleather HM5s on my denons. they are quite comfortable and leave a lot of space. good seal as well. i think brainwavz has a hybrid velour pleather pad as well, that might be worth trying.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Wed, 04 November 2015, 07:04:11
I'm sure its been mentioned a few times in this thread, but please remember that your headphones will only be as good as your source. If you don't update your source before updating your headphones, you're really doing yourself a disservice.

If you're like me, and mostly listen to digital sources (MP3, FLAC, ALAC, etc), that means DAC. Which is why buying even a small DAC/AMP combo will go a long way to making your existing, let alone new, headphones sound better. This is assuming plugging it into a computer, or a device that allows either line-out or USB audio.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: djchup on Wed, 04 November 2015, 08:19:17
I use an Audio-GD NFB-15 to drive DT-990 600 Ohm.  This is my everyday use setup.  For Gaming and listening to bass-heavy music, I switch to my JVC HA-SZ2000.  Both sets of cans have their uses and I love them both.  The Beyerdynamics for super-crisp highs and the JVC's for the cinematic/nightclub soundstage.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: clochette on Thu, 05 November 2015, 03:37:20

HD700 and UM3x
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/iWDIr4b.jpg)




If you're looking for a tubey amp try the Little Dot Mk3. If not just he schiitstack can get the job done if needed.

ah yes, i have been recommended the schiit stack too, but it is slightly out of budget for me at the moment

audio-GD was also shortlisted

just wondering what other HD700 owners are pairing it with
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 05 November 2015, 06:29:34
I'm sure its been mentioned a few times in this thread, but please remember that your headphones will only be as good as your source. If you don't update your source before updating your headphones, you're really doing yourself a disservice.

If you're like me, and mostly listen to digital sources (MP3, FLAC, ALAC, etc), that means DAC. Which is why buying even a small DAC/AMP combo will go a long way to making your existing, let alone new, headphones sound better. This is assuming plugging it into a computer, or a device that allows either line-out or USB audio.

Can't agree with this enough. I've always found built in audio in phones and computers to be mediocre at best.
Frankly I can't even find anything worse except maybe the middle of the barrel ipods which had decent dac chips but really bad amping.
Just like a pair of headphones' frequency range doesn't mean jack **** about its quality, a DAC's SNR has very little bearing on the actual quality.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Thu, 05 November 2015, 09:30:23
Also posted on the setup thread. However, now I found the proper place:

-Raspberry pi 2 with Hifiberry DAC pro (airplay)
-Shiit Lyr as amp
-Sanheisser HD 600 as headphones

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: treefinger on Thu, 05 November 2015, 09:34:00
My little corner of joy. HD 600, WA6 Modi. Not pictured I have a DT770 250ohm, RHA MA750s and a couple of other IEMs.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/euyNrzo.jpg)



Mmmm....delicious. Kudos for the homemade stand!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 05 November 2015, 11:21:41
Still loving my th600. And to think at one point I was going to sell them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 05 November 2015, 11:58:39
Still loving my th600. And to think at one point I was going to sell them.

sell em and buy the th900.  :cool:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 05 November 2015, 14:12:05
Still loving my th600. And to think at one point I was going to sell them.

sell em and buy the th900.  :cool:

I concur

(http://i.imgur.com/038ZdCZ.jpg)

Just look at that wood  :cool:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 05 November 2015, 14:12:43
I like the matte black of the 600 a lot more tbh
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 05 November 2015, 14:14:04
I like the matte black of the 600 a lot more tbh
I thought you didn't even like headphones =(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 05 November 2015, 14:14:43
What made you think that?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 05 November 2015, 15:50:05
Schiit Lyr (Gen1) with Amperex Orange Globe A-frames
Bifrost Uber
Sennheiser HD800 (Moon Audio Black Dragon cable)
Beyerdynamic T1 (Gen1)

In the background:
SAE 2200 power amp (rebuilt with new caps and toroidal transformer)
KEF Q300

Not pictured:
HiFiMAN HE-500 (Moon Audio Silver Dragon cable)
AKG Q701 (K712 pads)
AKG K553
Magni (Gen1)

Contemplating one of the new upgrades for the Bifrost. I don't really think the Multibit upgrade is worth the cost and hassle of sending off the Bifrost to have the software flashed. I wonder how much sonic difference the 4490 would have? I don't really care about the measurements all that much.

(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8601/16481435956_297c205ab5_k.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 05 November 2015, 20:14:56
Schiit Lyr (Gen1) with Amperex Orange Globe A-frames
Bifrost Uber
Sennheiser HD800 (Moon Audio Black Dragon cable)
Beyerdynamic T1 (Gen1)

In the background:
SAE 2200 power amp (rebuilt with new caps and toroidal transformer)
KEF Q300

Not pictured:
HiFiMAN HE-500 (Moon Audio Silver Dragon cable)
AKG Q701 (K712 pads)
AKG K553
Magni (Gen1)

Contemplating one of the new upgrades for the Bifrost. I don't really think the Multibit upgrade is worth the cost and hassle of sending off the Bifrost to have the software flashed. I wonder how much sonic difference the 4490 would have? I don't really care about the measurements all that much.

Show Image
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8601/16481435956_297c205ab5_k.jpg)


How do you find the black dragon with the hd800? Does it emphasise the bass a bit more? I have a Vero full range cable coming soon with XLR termination to pair with my HDVD800 but was contemplating a black dragon before that purchase
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 05 November 2015, 22:28:22
How do you find the black dragon with the hd800? Does it emphasise the bass a bit more? I have a Vero full range cable coming soon with XLR termination to pair with my HDVD800 but was contemplating a black dragon before that purchase

The Black Dragon slightly emphasizes the HD800's lower mids and bass while reducing the treble peak ever so slightly. It makes the overall sound a tiny bit fuller without losing any clarity. Don't expect any huge changes though; the difference is slight.

I didn't notice any difference in the HE-500's sound after switching to the Silver Dragon but it did get rid of the annoying microphonics of the stock cable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Thu, 05 November 2015, 23:02:41
Schiit Lyr (Gen1) with Amperex Orange Globe A-frames
Bifrost Uber
Sennheiser HD800 (Moon Audio Black Dragon cable)
Beyerdynamic T1 (Gen1)

In the background:
SAE 2200 power amp (rebuilt with new caps and toroidal transformer)
KEF Q300

Not pictured:
HiFiMAN HE-500 (Moon Audio Silver Dragon cable)
AKG Q701 (K712 pads)
AKG K553
Magni (Gen1)

Contemplating one of the new upgrades for the Bifrost. I don't really think the Multibit upgrade is worth the cost and hassle of sending off the Bifrost to have the software flashed. I wonder how much sonic difference the 4490 would have? I don't really care about the measurements all that much.

Show Image
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8601/16481435956_297c205ab5_k.jpg)


I'm thinking of getting either the beyerdynamic T1 or the HiFiMAN HE-500 or possible another model. Which one would you recommend, my audio set up is lacking quite a bit with a dt 770 pro, o2 amp, centrance odac.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 05 November 2015, 23:49:24
I'm thinking of getting either the beyerdynamic T1 or the HiFiMAN HE-500 or possible another model. Which one would you recommend, my audio set up is lacking quite a bit with a dt 770 pro, o2 amp, centrance odac.

That really depends on your listening preferences because they are both very different. The HE-500 is a bit warmer than neutral and has more forward lower-mids. The bass is very powerful and extends fantastically low but isn't overpowering. Treble is crisp but laid-back. The soundstage is a bit small and lacking in distinct centerstage but the ability of the planar magnetic driver to layer and separate sounds more than adequately makes up for it. Vocals sound full-bodied and warm. It has a bit of a laid-back sound and does fine with poorly mastered tracks. It's not a microscope for detail but it doesn't sound veiled either. It's pretty close to neutral but with a distinct planar-like presentation. I really like the HE-500 with EDM because of its well extended and impactful bass.

The T1 can be a bit bright and I find it to be less extended in the low end compared to the HE-500 and HD800. However, it has one of the best midranges I've ever heard. It has somewhat forward upper mids and is spectacularly smooth and grain free. The emphasized upper mids pushes vocals to the front. I particularly enjoy female vocals with the T1. It has the most raw detail retrieval I've ever heard in a headphone, even more so than the HD800. As far as soundstage, it's larger in size than the HE-500 with a more distinct centerstage but not as large as the HD800. It has very precise positioning and separation of sounds. When listening to classical music, the HD800 sounds to me like I'm in a large concert hall seated in the center about halfway back in the room. The T1 sounds as though I'm in the same hall but now seated in the second row. The HE-500 sounds like all the sound is contained in a small room with less defined positioning but very good separation and layering. The T1 has an energetic sound and makes music fun to listen to. I like it for classical, ambient electronic/chill and some alternative rock, as long as it's well produced. Poorly mastered tracks can sometimes be unpleasant because of the T1's treble energy. If you're used to the Beyer house sound, it probably won't bother you.

The O2 will work with both but won't be ideal. The HE-500 is a planar magnetic headphone and will do well with an amp that can push >1 watt into 38 ohms. The T1 is 600 ohms and IME pairs well with tubes. An OTL amp would work well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Thu, 05 November 2015, 23:57:42
I'm thinking of getting either the beyerdynamic T1 or the HiFiMAN HE-500 or possible another model. Which one would you recommend, my audio set up is lacking quite a bit with a dt 770 pro, o2 amp, centrance odac.

That really depends on your listening preferences because they are both very different. The HE-500 is a bit warmer than neutral and has more forward lower-mids. The bass is very powerful and extends fantastically low but isn't overpowering. Treble is crisp but laid-back. The soundstage is a bit small and lacking in distinct centerstage but the ability of the planar magnetic driver to layer and separate sounds more than adequately makes up for it. Vocals sound full-bodied and warm. It has a bit of a laid-back sound and does fine with poorly mastered tracks. It's not a microscope for detail but it doesn't sound veiled either. It's pretty close to neutral but with a distinct planar-like presentation. I really like the HE-500 with EDM because of its well extended and impactful bass.

The T1 can be a bit bright and I find it to be less extended in the low end compared to the HE-500 and HD800. However, it has one of the best midranges I've ever heard. It has somewhat forward upper mids and is spectacularly smooth and grain free. The emphasized upper mids pushes vocals to the front. I particularly enjoy female vocals with the T1. It has the most raw detail retrieval I've ever heard in a headphone, even more so than the HD800. As far as soundstage, it's larger in size than the HE-500 with a more distinct centerstage but not as large as the HD800. It has very precise positioning and separation of sounds. When listening to classical music, the HD800 sounds to me like I'm in a large concert hall seated in the center about halfway back in the room. The T1 sounds as though I'm in the same hall but now seated in the second row. The HE-500 sounds like all the sound is contained in a small room with less defined positioning but very good separation and layering. The T1 has an energetic sound and makes music fun to listen to. I like it for classical, ambient electronic/chill and some alternative rock, as long as it's well produced. Poorly mastered tracks can sometimes be unpleasant because of the T1's treble energy. If you're used to the Beyer house sound, it probably won't bother you.

The O2 will work with both but won't be ideal. The HE-500 is a planar magnetic headphone and will do well with an amp that can push >1 watt into 38 ohms. The T1 is 600 ohms and IME pairs well with tubes. An OTL amp would work well.

Thank you very much for you explanation. I was definitely planning on upgrading my setup as whole with a new amp, headphones, and all. I kind of like a more semi-open and closed sound myself, I generally not like to have it too open because then others can what I was listening today. The HE-500 just look very appealing though, the T1 pricing on amazon is also very interesting. If I can scrap the cash together in time I think I may just pull the trigger on the T1 if the price hovers around what it's currently at.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 06 November 2015, 00:22:11
Thank you very much for you explanation. I was definitely planning on upgrading my setup as whole with a new amp, headphones, and all. I kind of like a more semi-open and closed sound myself, I generally not like to have it too open because then others can what I was listening today. The HE-500 just look very appealing though, the T1 pricing on amazon is also very interesting. If I can scrap the cash together in time I think I may just pull the trigger on the T1 if the price hovers around what it's currently at.

Beyerdynamic just released a gen 2 version of the T1 so the gen 1 has dropped significantly in price. Beyer claims the gen 2 has a bit fuller low end and slightly tamed treble but I haven't heard it yet. At its current pricing, the T1 gen 1 is an absolute steal (as long as you are a fan of the Beyer house sound).

The HE-500 has also been discontinued in favor of the newer HE-560. I haven't heard the HE-560 either but those that have say it is not just an incremental upgrade to the HE-500 but instead sounds like a completely different headphone. The best way to find an HE-500 is probably to look for a good price on a used one.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blueangel2323 on Fri, 06 November 2015, 21:58:24
For those who haven't heard, Sennheiser has just re-released the world's best headphones - the Orpheus system - for a mere $55,000.
http://www.theverge.com/2015/11/6/9680990/sennheiser-orpheus-handmade-headphones-electrostatic-hands-on

There is also a more sensible HD800S, which is a slightly improved version of the HD800, including smoother treble for those who complained about peakiness in that region.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sat, 07 November 2015, 00:50:59
For those who haven't heard, Sennheiser has just re-released the world's best headphones - the Orpheus system - for a mere $55,000.
http://www.theverge.com/2015/11/6/9680990/sennheiser-orpheus-handmade-headphones-electrostatic-hands-on

There is also a more sensible HD800S, which is a slightly improved version of the HD800, including smoother treble for those who complained about peakiness in that region.

Yea, Sennheiser sort of lost a bit of my respect after these (not that my opinion matters lol).

The HD800S basically looks like they copied the Anaxilus mod, then jacked up the price.

The Orpheus, while I have high hopes that it will sound amazing and god-tier and cure sexually transmitted diseases, cannot be justified in my eyes when you can get a fully treated room with an amazing speaker system for likely cheaper prices. I also worry about the multiple parts where that amp can actually *break*, from an engineering perspective.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Sat, 07 November 2015, 04:59:24
For those who haven't heard, Sennheiser has just re-released the world's best headphones - the Orpheus system - for a mere $55,000.
http://www.theverge.com/2015/11/6/9680990/sennheiser-orpheus-handmade-headphones-electrostatic-hands-on

There is also a more sensible HD800S, which is a slightly improved version of the HD800, including smoother treble for those who complained about peakiness in that region.

Yea, Sennheiser sort of lost a bit of my respect after these (not that my opinion matters lol).

The HD800S basically looks like they copied the Anaxilus mod, then jacked up the price.

The Orpheus, while I have high hopes that it will sound amazing and god-tier and cure sexually transmitted diseases, cannot be justified in my eyes when you can get a fully treated room with an amazing speaker system for likely cheaper prices. I also worry about the multiple parts where that amp can actually *break*, from an engineering perspective.

The new Orpheus is like a work of art. They don't expect the average consumer to buy it...  It's just there because they are able to build it. I have no doubt that it will increase in value or at least keep its value despite being already ridiculously priced.

Jude has also said that it's by far the best sounding headphone he has ever heard and I'm sure will remain the best for a fairly long time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sat, 07 November 2015, 05:08:03
That's Jude and head-fi though. It's a business.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Sat, 07 November 2015, 05:32:54
I guess we can just wait for other reviewers :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 07 November 2015, 05:34:02
Quote
The Orpheus, while I have high hopes that it will sound amazing and god-tier and cure sexually transmitted diseases, cannot be justified in my eyes when you can get a fully treated room with an amazing speaker system for likely cheaper prices.

Considering speaker systems can go up to hundreds of thousands dollars, I'm willing to bet the second Orpheus will sound better than any speaker system in the $50,000 range. You're comparing what probably would be the world's best headphones to a not-quite summit-fi speaker setup. Headphones have always been better in terms of price/performance ratio, which is the reason why most people get into headphones to begin with.

Quote
I also worry about the multiple parts where that amp can actually *break*, from an engineering perspective.

How do you know? You haven't even seen the insides of the thing. I suppose you're talking about all the moving parts, but one would hope people aren't blowing their entire life savings on the thing. If you're gonna buy a $50,000 headphone, you should be able to afford a bunch of other luxuries, including repairs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 07 November 2015, 05:35:52
That's Jude and head-fi though. It's a business.

Jude and head-fi gets a lot of slack for being an advertising board (and I agree it is an advertising board), but honestly... he's pretty even-keeled in his reviews. Or at least the few reviews I've read of his. He doesn't always say "OMFG THE LATEST AND GREATEST" for everything he writes about.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sat, 07 November 2015, 06:05:50
That's Jude and head-fi though. It's a business.

Jude and head-fi gets a lot of slack for being an advertising board (and I agree it is an advertising board), but honestly... he's pretty even-keeled in his reviews. Or at least the few reviews I've read of his. He doesn't always say "OMFG THE LATEST AND GREATEST" for everything he writes about.

In his SR-009 video, he claims it is better than Orpheus.

In his Orpheus 2 video he claims that he believes the factory refurbished original Orpheus is now the best he's ever heard. Then he proclaims Orpheus 2 to be better. Maybe he really feels that way. But he is far from even keeled. In fact, he pretty much lauds everything he reviews if it is from a sponsor. You will disagree with me. That's fine.

Quote
The Orpheus, while I have high hopes that it will sound amazing and god-tier and cure sexually transmitted diseases, cannot be justified in my eyes when you can get a fully treated room with an amazing speaker system for likely cheaper prices.

Considering speaker systems can go up to hundreds of thousands dollars, I'm willing to bet the second Orpheus will sound better than any speaker system in the $50,000 range. You're comparing what probably would be the world's best headphones to a not-quite summit-fi speaker setup. Headphones have always been better in terms of price/performance ratio, which is the reason why most people get into headphones to begin with.

Quote
I also worry about the multiple parts where that amp can actually *break*, from an engineering perspective.

How do you know? You haven't even seen the insides of the thing. I suppose you're talking about all the moving parts, but one would hope people aren't blowing their entire life savings on the thing. If you're gonna buy a $50,000 headphone, you should be able to afford a bunch of other luxuries, including repairs.

How do you know it will be the world's best headphone? No one has reviewed it yet. Have you ever heard a full blown 50 000 speaker system? Most people will  gladly tell you, even on head-fi, that at that price, the speaker system beats out the headphone. There are people who say that these speaker systems already trump the original Orpheus at that price point.

As for the worrying about breakability: http://www.engadget.com/2015/11/06/sennheiser-orpheus-hands-on-but-no-ears/

It's simple engineering principles. Increasing the complexity of an object increases the amount of points at which it can fail. Furthermore, if you're paying 50 000, you better ****ing expect perfection. Try being Ferrari and telling a client, "Oh yeah, the car you just bought might have a bum exhaust, but you can just pay for it since you already forked over 100k..."

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sat, 07 November 2015, 06:40:07
I've never heard an Orpheus or a $50,000 speaker setup, but I can tell you that my KEF Q300s sound better, have a much more impressive soundstage and have a far more realistic and tangible presentation than my HD800 which cost more than twice what the speakers did. YMMV because like everything in audio, it's all subjective.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 07 November 2015, 08:52:42
Quote
In his Orpheus 2 video he claims that he believes the factory refurbished original Orpheus is now the best he's ever heard. Then he proclaims Orpheus 2 to be better. Maybe he really feels that way. But he is far from even keeled. In fact, he pretty much lauds everything he reviews if it is from a sponsor. You will disagree with me. That's fine.

You act as if people can't change their minds. There are other reviews where Jude doesn't proclaim something to be "the best in the world". Trust me.

And Jude isn't a salesman for the Orpheus... trust me. Because it's rare as **** as it is, and the people who have bought the Orpehus didn't buy it because of Jude's opinions. Trust me.

Quote
It's simple engineering principles. Increasing the complexity of an object increases the amount of points at which it can fail. Furthermore, if you're paying 50 000, you better ****ing expect perfection. Try being Ferrari and telling a client, "Oh yeah, the car you just bought might have a bum exhaust, but you can just pay for it since you already forked over 100k..."

Ok... so what's your point exactly? If it's $50,000, we should "****ing expect" perfection, so maybe it will be? And you're already assuming it's not. Make a decision on your opinions. Also, the guy in the article you posted was using was a PROTOTYPE. 

Also... luxury cars do break down a lot, if you don't know. BMWs, Mercedes have terrible reps for breaking down a lot, and being expensive to fix. Doesn't stop the wealthy from buying them because the wealthy make sure they can afford the fixes before buying it.

Quote
but I can tell you that my KEF Q300s sound better, have a much more impressive soundstage and have a far more realistic and tangible presentation than my HD800 which cost more than twice what the speakers did.

I'm pretty sure that's a misleading comment, because you only commented on the KEF Q300s soundstage and presentation. And, yes... yours is a subjective opinion. But in general, most people see headphones being better than speakers in terms of price to performance ratio.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sat, 07 November 2015, 10:27:24
Look fuzzybuffy. I think it's pretty clear you're not going to budge from your opinions, and you want to defend Jude. That's fine. I'm too tired to critique the flaws in your logic, as well as your seeming inability to accept opinions which are contrary to yours.

All I'm going to say is that I will most assuredly not "trust" you, lol, just because you say "trust me" three times without any semblance of rational evidence to substantiate your claims. My brain is not wired that way.

Have a good one.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sat, 07 November 2015, 10:50:45
Quote
but I can tell you that my KEF Q300s sound better, have a much more impressive soundstage and have a far more realistic and tangible presentation than my HD800 which cost more than twice what the speakers did.

I'm pretty sure that's a misleading comment, because you only commented on the KEF Q300s soundstage and presentation. And, yes... yours is a subjective opinion. But in general, most people see headphones being better than speakers in terms of price to performance ratio.

I wasn't trying to be misleading. I can go into more detail if you'd like.

The Q300s have an overall much more neutral frequency response across the board. They don't have the peakiness in the treble that is present in the HD800. The HD800 extends a bit lower into sub bass than the Q300 drivers themselves but paired with the Q400 subwoofer the sub bass extension is better than any headphone I've heard. Mids are very neutral; not overly warm but not dry or grainy either. The lack of any swinging peaks in the frequency response makes instruments sound very natural and real. Using the Lyr with Amperex Orange Globes as a preamp, the sound becomes somewhat smooth and liquid. Sounds are presented with distinct separation and laser precise imaging, laying out the stage in an arc in front of you with no gaps or holes. The distinct imaging of individual sound sources does wonders for the realism of the sound, as long as the recording isn't overly compressed. I've simply not come across another headphone yet that can even touch a modest speaker setup in terms of soundstaging. One area where the HD800 or similar headphone will beat out speakers in this class is in micro details, as headphones such as these tend to bring far more fine details out of the sound than you would even hear at a live performance. Sometimes this is desired, which is why I still have many different pairs of headphones around. They all bring something unique to the table, and often I prefer using them over my speakers. But when it comes to closing my eyes and imagining that I am in the concert hall with the symphony orchestra, headphones just can't compete with a decent set of speakers. All IMHO of course.

Also, I'm not completely disagreeing with you. In general, headphones tend to be much more accessible than speakers. In my case, I found a speaker setup that I find outperforms my headphones in almost all areas and I didn't have to spend $50,000.

When you get your Orpheus, be sure to let us know how it sounds.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 07 November 2015, 11:10:11
Look fuzzybuffy. I think it's pretty clear you're not going to budge from your opinions, and you want to defend Jude. That's fine. I'm too tired to critique the flaws in your logic, as well as your seeming inability to accept opinions which are contrary to yours.

All I'm going to say is that I will most assuredly not "trust" you, lol, just because you say "trust me" three times without any semblance of rational evidence to substantiate your claims. My brain is not wired that way.

Have a good one.

I wasn't saying you have to like the Orpheus 2. I was just questioning your writing off of Sennheiser and how much you "lost respect" for them, when you haven't even heard the headphones.

Quote
When you get your Orpheus, be sure to let us know how it sounds.

A sublte underhanded dig, about me probably never being able to afford the Orpheus, I see. Makes it hard for me to take your opinions seriously.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: deductivemonkee on Mon, 09 November 2015, 22:39:35
Sennheiser HD 518 or rs 160? Or something else?
I'm buying on the cheap, Canadians get ripped off. $79.99 USD for 518, $150 CAD for 518 :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GuilleAcoustic on Tue, 10 November 2015, 03:28:51
I'm the happy owner of an AKG 701 but it really needs an headphone amp to shine. Planned to build one, but no ETA lol. Bought Marshall's Major 2 for transportation and office. Pretty happy with them but I definitely prefere opened back cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Tue, 10 November 2015, 08:41:56
Sennheiser HD 518 or rs 160? Or something else?
I'm buying on the cheap, Canadians get ripped off. $79.99 USD for 518, $150 CAD for 518 :/

check kijiji. i see 598s for sale for like ~150CAD, without tax.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 10 November 2015, 09:02:39
Sennheiser HD 518 or rs 160? Or something else?
I'm buying on the cheap, Canadians get ripped off. $79.99 USD for 518, $150 CAD for 518 :/

check kijiji. i see 598s for sale for like ~150CAD, without tax.

Dayum...

Here in montreal people ask more than MSRP for sennheiser headphones...

I've seen HD650s up for $700...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Tue, 10 November 2015, 09:17:33
I see some pretty decent headphones show up in classifieds as well, you may be able to get a good pair for cheap.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Infrared on Tue, 10 November 2015, 09:46:37
Loving my DT880's at home. For school I use Shure SE 315's. I dont like the Shure's lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Thu, 12 November 2015, 03:43:50

Contemplating one of the new upgrades for the Bifrost. I don't really think the Multibit upgrade is worth the cost and hassle of sending off the Bifrost to have the software flashed. I wonder how much sonic difference the 4490 would have? I don't really care about the measurements all that much.

Show Image
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8601/16481435956_297c205ab5_k.jpg)


Man, I'm upset. I paid like $500+ for my bifrost Uber

Does the new one have the same analog stage as the uber?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Thu, 12 November 2015, 09:42:48
Using Modi 2 and I'm noticing that a good quality DAC makes all the difference. Comparing it to the HiFiBerry DAC is was originally using, the sound is a lot better.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 12 November 2015, 10:50:27
Dynamat modded my Denon's.

Much better bass; what little midbass hump there was is gone, realllllllllyyyyy nice sub-bass that digs deep (on Zimmer's "Why So Serious", you can hear the incredibly deep notes at 3:25 or so). I can easily hear 20-Hz tones.

I wonder if there is a "sub-basshead" moniker?

This makes me want a TH-900 even more.  :-X
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 12 November 2015, 16:57:30

Contemplating one of the new upgrades for the Bifrost. I don't really think the Multibit upgrade is worth the cost and hassle of sending off the Bifrost to have the software flashed. I wonder how much sonic difference the 4490 would have? I don't really care about the measurements all that much.

Show Image
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8601/16481435956_297c205ab5_k.jpg)


Man, I'm upset. I paid like $500+ for my bifrost Uber

Does the new one have the same analog stage as the uber?

It's supposedly upgraded again. Not sure how much of an upgrade it is over the Uber.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 12 November 2015, 22:04:12
Bought a used pair of Aurisonics ASG1+, set aside the ratty lookin' stock cable and plugged in my Effect Audio silver cable. I must say I like the sound I'm hearing, nice treble (not sparkly at all), forward sound mids and vocals, with some good bass (not in the least bit boomy, quite controlled with decent extension).
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/asg1_zpsdpxv39mk.jpg)

I'd also gotten a pair of Dyson Audio balanced 4pin HiFiMan XLR cable from eBay, took a tad over three weeks to get to me though.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpsh5ett8ow.jpg)
A very good and worthwhile purchase for me as the cable can be used on these badboys.......had the Denons modded with HFM sockets.....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpsogzxgjn9.jpg)
Enjoying sweet sound with my HFM HE500 + 4pin balanced XLR + Oppo HA1....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/4_zpsl2wwzwk1.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Thu, 12 November 2015, 22:44:15

Contemplating one of the new upgrades for the Bifrost. I don't really think the Multibit upgrade is worth the cost and hassle of sending off the Bifrost to have the software flashed. I wonder how much sonic difference the 4490 would have? I don't really care about the measurements all that much.

Show Image
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8601/16481435956_297c205ab5_k.jpg)


Man, I'm upset. I paid like $500+ for my bifrost Uber

Does the new one have the same analog stage as the uber?

It's supposedly upgraded again. Not sure how much of an upgrade it is over the Uber.

Well **** me. You know what they say about early adopters, but this year I've been totally screwed lol..

How much do you suppose the Uber will sell for? $350?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 13 November 2015, 01:45:37
Well **** me. You know what they say about early adopters, but this year I've been totally screwed lol..

How much do you suppose the Uber will sell for? $350?

You don't have to sell your Bifrost. You can purchase the 4490 board as an upgrade for 70USD and install it yourself.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Sat, 14 November 2015, 00:31:43
Well **** me. You know what they say about early adopters, but this year I've been totally screwed lol..

How much do you suppose the Uber will sell for? $350?

You don't have to sell your Bifrost. You can purchase the 4490 board as an upgrade for 70USD and install it yourself.

Well the analog stage is better on the new bifrost no?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sat, 14 November 2015, 03:16:43
Well **** me. You know what they say about early adopters, but this year I've been totally screwed lol..

How much do you suppose the Uber will sell for? $350?

You don't have to sell your Bifrost. You can purchase the 4490 board as an upgrade for 70USD and install it yourself.

Well the analog stage is better on the new bifrost no?

The analog stage is located on the DAC board so if you get the 4490 upgrade you will also be getting whatever new analog stage upgrade comes with it. The base Bifrost unit does not change; only the DAC and USB boards are upgraded.

The only exception is the multibit upgrade. That one requires you to send in your Bifrost to have new firmware flashed.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: lakiozoon on Sat, 14 November 2015, 04:52:51
I'm sure its been mentioned a few times in this thread, but please remember that your headphones will only be as good as your source. If you don't update your source before updating your headphones, you're really doing yourself a disservice.

If you're like me, and mostly listen to digital sources (MP3, FLAC, ALAC, etc), that means DAC. Which is why buying even a small DAC/AMP combo will go a long way to making your existing, let alone new, headphones sound better. This is assuming plugging it into a computer, or a device that allows either line-out or USB audio.

Can't agree with this enough. I've always found built in audio in phones and computers to be mediocre at best.
Frankly I can't even find anything worse except maybe the middle of the barrel ipods which had decent dac chips but really bad amping.
Just like a pair of headphones' frequency range doesn't mean jack **** about its quality, a DAC's SNR has very little bearing on the actual quality.

My experience is quite the opposite. Being able to switch between good DAC and cheap DAC "on the fly", during playback, only then I noticed how little improvement there is.
Most noticeable differences in sound quality I noticed are (in this order of magnitude):
- headphones (different headphones are miles apart)
- audio source (here I refer to the difference between low quality MP3 and FLAC), the difference is noticeable
- amplifier (a trained ear can hear some difference between amps, but with low impendance cans, the difference can be counterproductive)
- DAC (to my ears, the difference is almost non existant)
- cables (non existant)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tronbeaver on Sat, 14 November 2015, 09:54:16
Definitely FLAC all the way!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sat, 14 November 2015, 15:52:08
Definitely FLAC all the way!

Take a 320 kbps vs. FLAC blind test.

Make note of how difficult or easy it is to discern the difference.

Then ask yourself if the size increase is worth it. And probably the money too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Sun, 15 November 2015, 13:58:51
I will disagree with the file size because a hard-drive is cheap now. For example I bought a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB for 90$.
Also for some, FLAC is an exact copy of a CD, and 320 is not. For those who like CD, they can be sure they will always have a
a perfect digital backup with FLAC.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 15 November 2015, 14:58:00
I will disagree with the file size because a hard-drive is cheap now. For example I bought a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB for 90$.
Also for some, FLAC is an exact copy of a CD, and 320 is not. For those who like CD, they can be sure they will always have a
a perfect digital backup with FLAC.

that is false. FLAC is not exact copy of a CD. An uncompressed 44.1 kHz .wav file would be an exact copy of CD.

and like i said, if you think spending $90 to store music is worth your money, then that is fine. some people may, some people may not. i just don't think the quality difference, if you can even detect it, is worth it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Mon, 16 November 2015, 08:55:58
It's going to depend on the overall system. I can hear the difference between 320kbps MP3s and FLAC when using my IEMs, but not when using my inexpensive desktop monitors. Or my Klipsch Reference IIs for that matter, just not high-end enough (to perceive the difference, that is. I'm not unhappy with the Klipsch for movies, as that's what I bought them for).

But there's a noticeable difference when I have my IEMs in. I have MP3 and FLAC copies of several albums, and have put them on random, and I can pick out the FLAC versions every time. I notice it most with complex sounds, like cymbals, which makes sense if you know how MP3 compression works.

Having said that, I enjoy listening to MP3s just fine, and tend to have MP3s on my portable devices, and leave the FLAC copies at home. Unless its a device with ridiculous amounts of space...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 16 November 2015, 09:11:09
But there's a noticeable difference when I have my IEMs in. I have MP3 and FLAC copies of several albums, and have put them on random, and I can pick out the FLAC versions every time. I notice it most with complex sounds, like cymbals, which makes sense if you know how MP3 compression works.

I agree that you can detect a difference if you try. My only argument is that to me, the minute quality difference (minute being in my eyes, of course) is not really worth the difference and hassle.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Mon, 16 November 2015, 10:09:25
But there's a noticeable difference when I have my IEMs in. I have MP3 and FLAC copies of several albums, and have put them on random, and I can pick out the FLAC versions every time. I notice it most with complex sounds, like cymbals, which makes sense if you know how MP3 compression works.

I agree that you can detect a difference if you try. My only argument is that to me, the minute quality difference (minute being in my eyes, of course) is not really worth the difference and hassle.

I think it depends on what kind of listening too. Some people close their eyes, and enjoy the music by itself, while others listen to music in addition to another activity. If concentrating on the music exclusively, then I can see where FLAC is of greater value than to someone who augments another activity with music.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Tue, 17 November 2015, 02:27:08
Just got my JH Angie's back from astell and kern. My favourite pair of headphones/earphones by far when paired with my zx2
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Tue, 17 November 2015, 06:11:06
Just got my JH Angie's back from astell and kern. My favourite pair of headphones/earphones by far when paired with my zx2

How's the user experience with the ZX2? I've looked at it fairly seriously in the past, but there's so many 'audiophile' grade media players that just have a terribad interface.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Tue, 17 November 2015, 08:36:50
It's an android interface. The reason i went zx2 over AK was the customisability. Tidal and spotify on it is actually pretty useful. Sound wise, its fantastic for what i listen to. I would say i like it better than my hd800 - hdvd800 desktop setup
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Tue, 17 November 2015, 09:08:52
It's an android interface. The reason i went zx2 over AK was the customisability. Tidal and spotify on it is actually pretty useful. Sound wise, its fantastic for what i listen to. I would say i like it better than my hd800 - hdvd800 desktop setup

Do you know if you have to use the Sony music app for the DAC to be fully utilized, or will any music app work? That was my gripe with some of them - only the vendor's app worked with all the features, and some of those apps are horrid.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 17 November 2015, 14:05:55
I tried a prototype zx2.

I believe the rep told me that you could install other apks on it but he was just a rep.

I'm using the ak240 which is better for my taste.

I found the ZX2 a little v shaped but had good power output.

The ak240 has poor power output. More ideal for very efficient headphones and IEMs but the balanced out makes it good for pairing with an amp, portable or otherwise.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Wed, 18 November 2015, 02:02:36
It's an android interface. The reason i went zx2 over AK was the customisability. Tidal and spotify on it is actually pretty useful. Sound wise, its fantastic for what i listen to. I would say i like it better than my hd800 - hdvd800 desktop setup

Do you know if you have to use the Sony music app for the DAC to be fully utilized, or will any music app work? That was my gripe with some of them - only the vendor's app worked with all the features, and some of those apps are horrid.

I have onkyo player on it and it works fine. It costs about 20 bucks though but the usability and the ability to sort tracks by bitrate is quite useful. You should definitely test both the ak series and the zx2 before purchasing though. I heard the new quest style DAP's are quite good as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bomble on Thu, 19 November 2015, 16:41:03
I'm thinking about getting some Shure SE215s for general daily use in something that isn't too expensive. Is there anything else around that price point that I should consider?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Thu, 19 November 2015, 18:44:06
I will disagree with the file size because a hard-drive is cheap now. For example I bought a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB for 90$.
Also for some, FLAC is an exact copy of a CD, and 320 is not. For those who like CD, they can be sure they will always have a
a perfect digital backup with FLAC.

that is false. FLAC is not exact copy of a CD. An uncompressed 44.1 kHz .wav file would be an exact copy of CD.

and like i said, if you think spending $90 to store music is worth your money, then that is fine. some people may, some people may not. i just don't think the quality difference, if you can even detect it, is worth it.

I'm confused... I thought FLAC's are lossless, which would mean they are exactly the same as .wav files, no?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 19 November 2015, 18:49:11
I will disagree with the file size because a hard-drive is cheap now. For example I bought a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB for 90$.
Also for some, FLAC is an exact copy of a CD, and 320 is not. For those who like CD, they can be sure they will always have a
a perfect digital backup with FLAC.

that is false. FLAC is not exact copy of a CD. An uncompressed 44.1 kHz .wav file would be an exact copy of CD.

and like i said, if you think spending $90 to store music is worth your money, then that is fine. some people may, some people may not. i just don't think the quality difference, if you can even detect it, is worth it.

I'm confused... I thought FLAC's are lossless, which would mean they are exactly the same as .wav files, no?

Flac is compressed. He's just differentiating between what's on the CD and what dan said.

You should be able to convert between flac and wav with no loss of quality (in theory). Wav is uncompressed and is what CDs use. A lot of programs now probably offer to rip directly into FLAC or MP3.

However some audiophiles "hear" a difference between flac and wav of the same bit depth and rate. (Just converted between the two)

All I know is that flac > mp3 in my experience. 320kbps mp3 is not enough.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blueangel2323 on Thu, 19 November 2015, 20:58:19
I'm thinking about getting some Shure SE215s for general daily use in something that isn't too expensive. Is there anything else around that price point that I should consider?
Consider:
RHA MA-750
Philips Fidelio S1
HiFiMAN RE-400

Depends on what kind of sound signature you're looking for. The RHA is the bassiest of the 3, the Philips is more balanced but still punchy, and the HifiMan is neutral to slightly mid-centric. If you're an absolute bass fiend, check out the Velodyne vPulse and B&W C5.

The Philips is also less effective at blocking out noise from your surroundings, if that's important.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 19 November 2015, 23:16:43
I will disagree with the file size because a hard-drive is cheap now. For example I bought a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB for 90$.
Also for some, FLAC is an exact copy of a CD, and 320 is not. For those who like CD, they can be sure they will always have a
a perfect digital backup with FLAC.

that is false. FLAC is not exact copy of a CD. An uncompressed 44.1 kHz .wav file would be an exact copy of CD.

and like i said, if you think spending $90 to store music is worth your money, then that is fine. some people may, some people may not. i just don't think the quality difference, if you can even detect it, is worth it.

I'm confused... I thought FLAC's are lossless, which would mean they are exactly the same as .wav files, no?

Flac is compressed. He's just differentiating between what's on the CD and what dan said.

You should be able to convert between flac and wav with no loss of quality (in theory). Wav is uncompressed and is what CDs use. A lot of programs now probably offer to rip directly into FLAC or MP3.

However some audiophiles "hear" a difference between flac and wav of the same bit depth and rate. (Just converted between the two)

All I know is that flac > mp3 in my experience. 320kbps mp3 is not enough.

Some people claim to be able to hear a difference but FLAC and WAV produce mathematically identical audio streams. FLAC uses a lossless compression method which means it uncompresses into an exact copy of the original PCM audio stream (similar to ZIP compression). It's just another example of audio placebo, like $600 power cables.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 20 November 2015, 00:01:02
I will disagree with the file size because a hard-drive is cheap now. For example I bought a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB for 90$.
Also for some, FLAC is an exact copy of a CD, and 320 is not. For those who like CD, they can be sure they will always have a
a perfect digital backup with FLAC.

that is false. FLAC is not exact copy of a CD. An uncompressed 44.1 kHz .wav file would be an exact copy of CD.

and like i said, if you think spending $90 to store music is worth your money, then that is fine. some people may, some people may not. i just don't think the quality difference, if you can even detect it, is worth it.

I'm confused... I thought FLAC's are lossless, which would mean they are exactly the same as .wav files, no?

Flac is compressed. He's just differentiating between what's on the CD and what dan said.

You should be able to convert between flac and wav with no loss of quality (in theory). Wav is uncompressed and is what CDs use. A lot of programs now probably offer to rip directly into FLAC or MP3.

However some audiophiles "hear" a difference between flac and wav of the same bit depth and rate. (Just converted between the two)

All I know is that flac > mp3 in my experience. 320kbps mp3 is not enough.

Some people claim to be able to hear a difference but FLAC and WAV produce mathematically identical audio streams. FLAC uses a lossless compression method which means it uncompresses into an exact copy of the original PCM audio stream (similar to ZIP compression). It's just another example of audio placebo, like $600 power cables.

The only time I remember reading about it, the guy was claiming he could hear some noise from the decompression of flac.

That's why I put hear in quotations since I highly doubt that, and if he is, it's placebo based on knowing that one is wav and one isnt.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Fri, 20 November 2015, 06:55:19
I will disagree with the file size because a hard-drive is cheap now. For example I bought a Samsung 850 EVO 250GB for 90$.
Also for some, FLAC is an exact copy of a CD, and 320 is not. For those who like CD, they can be sure they will always have a
a perfect digital backup with FLAC.

that is false. FLAC is not exact copy of a CD. An uncompressed 44.1 kHz .wav file would be an exact copy of CD.

and like i said, if you think spending $90 to store music is worth your money, then that is fine. some people may, some people may not. i just don't think the quality difference, if you can even detect it, is worth it.

I'm confused... I thought FLAC's are lossless, which would mean they are exactly the same as .wav files, no?

Flac is compressed. He's just differentiating between what's on the CD and what dan said.

You should be able to convert between flac and wav with no loss of quality (in theory). Wav is uncompressed and is what CDs use. A lot of programs now probably offer to rip directly into FLAC or MP3.

However some audiophiles "hear" a difference between flac and wav of the same bit depth and rate. (Just converted between the two)

All I know is that flac > mp3 in my experience. 320kbps mp3 is not enough.

Some people claim to be able to hear a difference but FLAC and WAV produce mathematically identical audio streams. FLAC uses a lossless compression method which means it uncompresses into an exact copy of the original PCM audio stream (similar to ZIP compression). It's just another example of audio placebo, like $600 power cables.

The only time I remember reading about it, the guy was claiming he could hear some noise from the decompression of flac.

That's why I put hear in quotations since I highly doubt that, and if he is, it's placebo based on knowing that one is wav and one isnt.

I've always been amused by the head-fiers that could 'hear' the difference. Probably one of the reasons I hardly go there anymore.

If there was a difference, FLAC wouldn't be lossless.

And if they can hear the 'decompression' of the file, well...  :)) Didn't realize 0s and 1s had sound  :p

But then, people buy $300 USB cables, because apparently 0s and 1s can attenuate.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 01:40:25
There's no doubt head-fiers go a little overboard with defending their purchases. And, if FLACs are indeed "lossless", then I doubt there is any audible differences versus .wavs as well. I also laugh when people talk about "burning in" their solid-state amps.

BUT... I was at a recent head-fi meet, where Kimber Kable was there, and had a couple of Sony Z7's, one outfitted with stock cables, one outfitted with their Kimber Kables, and I definitely heard a difference. I could A/B them (although I didn't do it blindly) with ease, since I could just switch around the headphones, and it's definitely made me a believer in cables.

Also, if you go to this thread in Super Audio Best Friends (this is NOT head-fi): http://www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/measurements-mid-fi-dac-amp-comb-units-grace-schiit-ifi-lh-jds-etc.427/ (http://www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/measurements-mid-fi-dac-amp-comb-units-grace-schiit-ifi-lh-jds-etc.427/), the author ran into some issues with noise on one of the amp/DACs he was reviewing, and switching the USB cable made a difference. And it was a -measurable- difference.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: damorgue on Sat, 21 November 2015, 03:41:37
Woop woop, just got a pair of AKG sextett delivered. The seller sold them as "AKG headphones" with few images but I took a chance since I thought they looked like sextetts. I have identified them as EP sextetts now that I have them. The elastic band is worn and the pads quite flat but that is fixable. I have printed a support structure which goes inside the pads which holds them further from the grille for now.

They are awesome. I have a pair of K240 MK2 which I got recently and was dissapointed with already. Now that I can compare the new with the old I really understand why.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 06:02:24
There's no doubt head-fiers go a little overboard with defending their purchases. And, if FLACs are indeed "lossless", then I doubt there is any audible differences versus .wavs as well. I also laugh when people talk about "burning in" their solid-state amps.

BUT... I was at a recent head-fi meet, where Kimber Kable was there, and had a couple of Sony Z7's, one outfitted with stock cables, one outfitted with their Kimber Kables, and I definitely heard a difference. I could A/B them (although I didn't do it blindly) with ease, since I could just switch around the headphones, and it's definitely made me a believer in cables.

Also, if you go to this thread in Super Audio Best Friends (this is NOT head-fi): http://www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/measurements-mid-fi-dac-amp-comb-units-grace-schiit-ifi-lh-jds-etc.427/ (http://www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/measurements-mid-fi-dac-amp-comb-units-grace-schiit-ifi-lh-jds-etc.427/), the author ran into some issues with noise on one of the amp/DACs he was reviewing, and switching the USB cable made a difference. And it was a -measurable- difference.

One of my friends believes in cable burn in
At a meet he brought his hd800 with new cables, I forgot the brand, and plugged it into the bryston amp from someone else and it sounded awful (bryston Amps are super bright). He blamed it on cable burn in since the cable was too new. :eek:

Certain USB cables if poorly made can have issues. Or sometimes there's something built into the USB cables like apple or astell and Kern (you can't use a non-AK USB cable with your device. I still don't know what happened to my stolen AK). I can believe a USB cable swap can do something but only from bad to good, not good to "better".

Whether cables make a difference is up to you, I heard nothing different with my Q Cable on the Audeze LCD2.

If cables make that much of a difference to me I'll buy a stax with the money I'd spend on cables
 ^-^
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Sat, 21 November 2015, 11:19:24
I believe in analog cable material differences (silver vs copper) as there's attenuation differences, but digital is digital, doesnt matter what its made out of. A bad cable is a bad cable, but with digital, as long as the data gets from point a to b...

I suppose an unshielded cable could produce some noise downstream, but the cable would have to be particularly cheap.

Anyways!

I'm still deciding on a portable DAC/Amp. Just something to keep in my bag with low output impedence, as my Shures are only 9 ohm.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 11:44:48
I believe in analog cable material differences (silver vs copper) as there's attenuation differences, but digital is digital, doesnt matter what its made out of. A bad cable is a bad cable, but with digital, as long as the data gets from point a to b...

I suppose an unshielded cable could produce some noise downstream, but the cable would have to be particularly cheap.

Anyways!

I'm still deciding on a portable DAC/Amp. Just something to keep in my bag with low output impedence, as my Shures are only 9 ohm.

I'm always a fan of AK units.

I can understand the silver vs copper argument since that's different materials but most of the debate is over same material cables making differences. So, copper vs copper cables from different brands.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 14:00:43
Yea, I mean... I'm not going to assume all cables in the world are different. I'm sure there are a lot of bogus stuff out there (like the Audioquest cables that cost thousands of dollars), but I'm definitely a believer in Kimber Kables (I'm assuming those are analog cables?), at least.

As far as portable DAC/amp goes... what's your budget? The Chord Mojo seems to be a hit, but I myself purchased the Massdrop Grace m9xx exclusive. I haven't had a chance to check it out yet, but a lot of people seem to really like it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 14:05:15
Yea, I mean... I'm not going to assume all cables in the world are different. I'm sure there are a lot of bogus stuff out there (like the Audioquest cables that cost thousands of dollars), but I'm definitely a believer in Kimber Kables (I'm assuming those are analog cables?), at least.

As far as portable DAC/amp goes... what's your budget? The Chord Mojo seems to be a hit, but I myself purchased the Massdrop Grace m9xx exclusive. I haven't had a chance to check it out yet, but a lot of people seem to really like it.

Chord hugo is huge for something to pocket. I just assumed that he meant something portable =/

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 14:20:28
Yea, that was a mistake. I meant Chord Mojo.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 14:29:35
Yea, that was a mistake. I meant Chord Mojo.

Haha mojo is a lot smaller but still requires a source.

I still recommend a lower end AK unit at that price like the AK100ii.

The mojo might be better for absolute quality but you're stuck having a source for it unless you're just looking something to bring around and use with different computers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 14:44:16
He did say "portable DAC/amp", not necessarily "DAP". :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 15:13:30
He did say "portable DAC/amp", not necessarily "DAP". :thumb:

That's why I said I assumed he meant a DAP :P

Most DAPs can function like a portable DAC / AMP like the AK and Fiio units, both of which accept USB in and the AK accepts coax(?).


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 16:27:14
That's why I said I assumed he meant a DAP :P

Most DAPs can function like a portable DAC / AMP like the AK and Fiio units, both of which accept USB in and the AK accepts coax(?).

??? What is wrong with you? You assuming he meant "DAP" is merely your assumption. You're acting as if you're speaking for the guy and invalidating other people's suggestions.

And yes, I'm fully aware DAP's can function as a portable DAC/amp. That doesn't deny the fact that some standalone DAC/amps (like the Mojo, which is very clearly and obviously marketed for portable use) can be used in portable solutions.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 17:05:12
That's why I said I assumed he meant a DAP :P

Most DAPs can function like a portable DAC / AMP like the AK and Fiio units, both of which accept USB in and the AK accepts coax(?).

??? What is wrong with you? You assuming he meant "DAP" is merely your assumption. You're acting as if you're speaking for the guy and invalidating other people's suggestions.

And yes, I'm fully aware DAP's can function as a portable DAC/amp. That doesn't deny the fact that some standalone DAC/amps (like the Mojo, which is very clearly and obviously marketed for portable use) can be used in portable solutions.
"The mojo might be better for absolute quality but you're stuck having a source for it unless you're just looking something to bring around and use with different computers."

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 17:10:00
Where are you quoting from? What does "stuck having a source for it" mean? You can connect the Mojo to smartphones and DAPs.

Do you even know what the Mojo is? http://www.head-fi.org/t/784602/chord-mojo-the-official-thread-read-the-first-post-for-updated-info (http://www.head-fi.org/t/784602/chord-mojo-the-official-thread-read-the-first-post-for-updated-info) It's a tiny little DAC/amp that a lot of people use in conjunction with their smartphones and DAPs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 17:16:01
Where are you quoting from? What does "stuck having a source for it" mean? You can connect the Mojo to smartphones and DAPs.

Do you even know what the Mojo is? http://www.head-fi.org/t/784602/chord-mojo-the-official-thread-read-the-first-post-for-updated-info (http://www.head-fi.org/t/784602/chord-mojo-the-official-thread-read-the-first-post-for-updated-info) It's tiny.

I quoted myself from several posts up.

The way you're writing makes it seem like you're attacking me. I stated both sides and why I chose to suggest a DAP vs a portable DAC / amp.

Connecting to a smartphone isn't the same as having a standalone device.

Smartphones tend to be a lot more limited in storage. Battery life is shorter. If you're pocketing the smartphone + mojo in one pocket it's bulky.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 17:21:57
Quote
The way you're writing makes it seem like you're attacking me.

I'm sorry you see it that way, but the way I see it is you're hounding me about my suggestions for a standalone DAC/amp. You've been responding to me about my suggestions.

Quote
I stated both sides and why I chose to suggest a DAP vs a portable DAC / amp.

Connecting to a smartphone isn't the same as having a standalone device.

Smartphones tend to be a lot more limited in storage. Battery life is shorter. If you're pocketing the smartphone + mojo in one pocket it's bulky.

Ok... so whether you prefer a DAP over a DAP/smartphone + portable DAC/amp is completely a matter of subjective opinion. But I have no idea why you keep talking to me about it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 17:52:52
Quote
The way you're writing makes it seem like you're attacking me.

I'm sorry you see it that way, but the way I see it is you're hounding me about my suggestions for a standalone DAC/amp. You've been responding to me about my suggestions.

Quote
I stated both sides and why I chose to suggest a DAP vs a portable DAC / amp.

Connecting to a smartphone isn't the same as having a standalone device.

Smartphones tend to be a lot more limited in storage. Battery life is shorter. If you're pocketing the smartphone + mojo in one pocket it's bulky.

Ok... so whether you prefer a DAP over a DAP/smartphone + portable DAC/amp is completely a matter of subjective opinion. But I have no idea why you keep talking to me about it.

Subjective opinion. Nice. Never knew opinions could be subjective.

And my first response was regarding your suggestion of the chord Hugo
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 21 November 2015, 17:53:11
I dunno, you did seem to get rather angry with Glitched for no reason bro
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sat, 21 November 2015, 21:08:20
One of my friends believes in cable burn in
At a meet he brought his hd800 with new cables, I forgot the brand, and plugged it into the bryston amp from someone else and it sounded awful (bryston Amps are super bright). He blamed it on cable burn in since the cable was too new. :eek:

Certain USB cables if poorly made can have issues. Or sometimes there's something built into the USB cables like apple or astell and Kern (you can't use a non-AK USB cable with your device. I still don't know what happened to my stolen AK). I can believe a USB cable swap can do something but only from bad to good, not good to "better".

Whether cables make a difference is up to you, I heard nothing different with my Q Cable on the Audeze LCD2.

If cables make that much of a difference to me I'll buy a stax with the money I'd spend on cables
 ^-^

USB cables, although digital, are still cables and can pick up RF interference that will introduce noise into the circuit. Using a USB cable with ferrite beads would make an audible difference in that case.

I have a Moon Audio Black Dragon cable for my HD800. There is an audible difference in the sound, though it is small. If I could do it again, I probably would not purchase that particular cable and instead go with a decent quality (but less expensive) copper cable.

I also have a Moon Audio Silver Dragon cable for my HE-500 and I don't hear any audible difference in sound compared to the stock cable other than reduced microphonics from the cable itself.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 21 November 2015, 21:20:40
One of my friends believes in cable burn in
At a meet he brought his hd800 with new cables, I forgot the brand, and plugged it into the bryston amp from someone else and it sounded awful (bryston Amps are super bright). He blamed it on cable burn in since the cable was too new. :eek:

Certain USB cables if poorly made can have issues. Or sometimes there's something built into the USB cables like apple or astell and Kern (you can't use a non-AK USB cable with your device. I still don't know what happened to my stolen AK). I can believe a USB cable swap can do something but only from bad to good, not good to "better".

Whether cables make a difference is up to you, I heard nothing different with my Q Cable on the Audeze LCD2.

If cables make that much of a difference to me I'll buy a stax with the money I'd spend on cables
 ^-^

USB cables, although digital, are still cables and can pick up RF interference that will introduce noise into the circuit. Using a USB cable with ferrite beads would make an audible difference in that case.

I have a Moon Audio Black Dragon cable for my HD800. There is an audible difference in the sound, though it is small. If I could do it again, I probably would not purchase that particular cable and instead go with a decent quality (but less expensive) copper cable.

I also have a Moon Audio Silver Dragon cable for my HE-500 and I don't hear any audible difference in sound compared to the stock cable other than reduced microphonics from the cable itself.

I'd much rather change cable for comfort than the possibility of better sound quality. At the prices of some of these premium cables I could get much better headphones in the first place.
The Q cable was definitely more comfortable than the stock cables (*cough* keystone pipelines*cough*)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Sat, 21 November 2015, 22:25:00
One of my friends believes in cable burn in
At a meet he brought his hd800 with new cables, I forgot the brand, and plugged it into the bryston amp from someone else and it sounded awful (bryston Amps are super bright). He blamed it on cable burn in since the cable was too new. :eek:

Certain USB cables if poorly made can have issues. Or sometimes there's something built into the USB cables like apple or astell and Kern (you can't use a non-AK USB cable with your device. I still don't know what happened to my stolen AK). I can believe a USB cable swap can do something but only from bad to good, not good to "better".

Whether cables make a difference is up to you, I heard nothing different with my Q Cable on the Audeze LCD2.

If cables make that much of a difference to me I'll buy a stax with the money I'd spend on cables
 ^-^

USB cables, although digital, are still cables and can pick up RF interference that will introduce noise into the circuit. Using a USB cable with ferrite beads would make an audible difference in that case.

I have a Moon Audio Black Dragon cable for my HD800. There is an audible difference in the sound, though it is small. If I could do it again, I probably would not purchase that particular cable and instead go with a decent quality (but less expensive) copper cable.

I also have a Moon Audio Silver Dragon cable for my HE-500 and I don't hear any audible difference in sound compared to the stock cable other than reduced microphonics from the cable itself.

I'd much rather change cable for comfort than the possibility of better sound quality. At the prices of some of these premium cables I could get much better headphones in the first place.
The Q cable was definitely more comfortable than the stock cables (*cough* keystone pipelines*cough*)

I bought an aftermarket copper cable to reduce the treble peakiness on my HD800. Worked great.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 21 November 2015, 22:56:50
Quote
Subjective opinion. Nice. Never knew opinions could be subjective.

Yea... opinions are subjective. And you were acting like your opinions are more valid than mine.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Sat, 21 November 2015, 23:25:25
Referring to headphone cables, anyone try a coiled headphone headphone cable?
I like how they remove extra cable slack.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sun, 22 November 2015, 03:28:58
Referring to headphone cables, anyone try a coiled headphone headphone cable?
I like how they remove extra cable slack.

My beyers have a coiled cable. I dislike how heavy the cable is when it is coiled.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mullidan on Sun, 22 November 2015, 10:20:43
M-Audio Q40 w/ Beyerdynamic EDT770VB earpad mod. A great set of cans for the price.

(http://i.imgur.com/ukxUS2r.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 22 November 2015, 23:07:32
I believe in analog cable material differences (silver vs copper) as there's attenuation differences, but digital is digital, doesnt matter what its made out of. A bad cable is a bad cable, but with digital, as long as the data gets from point a to b...

I think it was Axel Grell who said that cable sound differences are due to the inherent impedance of the materials; different impedances lead to differing volume levels (minute but I suppose detectable if you strain) given a fixed voltage.

I would venture then that the differences due to cables would be eliminated in volume matched blind ABX tests. I'm sure tests have confirmed this to varying degrees.

That being said, absolutely nothing wrong in my opinion with buying cables for looks :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: deductivemonkee on Sun, 22 November 2015, 23:50:44
Anyone here have any experience with the ath-m40x?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Tue, 24 November 2015, 04:46:33
Can someone reccomend a good headphone under 200$ i have tried grado sr80e and i dont really like i think because of the treble
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 24 November 2015, 06:14:03
Can someone reccomend a good headphone under 200$ i have tried grado sr80e and i dont really like i think because of the treble

Well for whatever reason, you don't like them so don't force it.

I like the AKG K551 but the bass isn't that great on it and the treble is still sharp with crappy sources.

The audio technica m50x shouldn't be sharp or peaky in the treble (at least not as much as grado)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Tue, 24 November 2015, 06:54:45
Can someone reccomend a good headphone under 200$ i have tried grado sr80e and i dont really like i think because of the treble

Well for whatever reason, you don't like them so don't force it.

I like the AKG K551 but the bass isn't that great on it and the treble is still sharp with crappy sources.

The audio technica m50x shouldn't be sharp or peaky in the treble (at least not as much as grado)
somone said that the m50x are overrated that i should be off getting ath m40x
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Tue, 24 November 2015, 09:43:18
Or, y'know, senns are kinda dark.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 24 November 2015, 09:50:26
Or, y'know, senns are kinda dark.

The 650 especially. The HD700/800 are not dark at all though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 24 November 2015, 09:54:32
Can someone reccomend a good headphone under 200$ i have tried grado sr80e and i dont really like i think because of the treble

Well for whatever reason, you don't like them so don't force it.

I like the AKG K551 but the bass isn't that great on it and the treble is still sharp with crappy sources.

The audio technica m50x shouldn't be sharp or peaky in the treble (at least not as much as grado)
somone said that the m50x are overrated that i should be off getting ath m40x

http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448380441&sr=8-1&keywords=nvx+xpt100

or these ^  they're amazing cans for sub $200
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Tue, 24 November 2015, 12:56:41
I need headphone therapy.  :'( With HE400I on sale for $299 this week, and noble having a 20% sale this friday, I am having a hard time keeping my wallet whole.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 24 November 2015, 13:14:20
I need headphone therapy.  :'( With HE400I on sale for $299 this week, and noble having a 20% sale this friday, I am having a hard time keeping my wallet whole.

You can always give me all your money and not have to worry about spending it on headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Tue, 24 November 2015, 14:11:10
I need headphone therapy.  :'( With HE400I on sale for $299 this week, and noble having a 20% sale this friday, I am having a hard time keeping my wallet whole.

First time finding out about this, I'm going to have to sell a kidney at the rate of how much I'm spending.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Tue, 24 November 2015, 14:43:32
I need headphone therapy.  :'( With HE400I on sale for $299 this week, and noble having a 20% sale this friday, I am having a hard time keeping my wallet whole.

You can always give me all your money and not have to worry about spending it on headphones

Then my wallet won't be whole AND I won't have nice headphones.  :( :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 24 November 2015, 14:46:34
I need headphone therapy.  :'( With HE400I on sale for $299 this week, and noble having a 20% sale this friday, I am having a hard time keeping my wallet whole.

You can always give me all your money and not have to worry about spending it on headphones

Then my wallet won't be whole AND I won't have nice headphones.  :( :'(

Well, you can keep the wallet, just give me the money  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 24 November 2015, 16:51:16
Boop

http://www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads%2Ffostex-th-x00-measurements-and-subjective-impressions.623%2F
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Tue, 24 November 2015, 21:09:23
Can someone reccomend a good headphone under 200$ i have tried grado sr80e and i dont really like i think because of the treble

Take a look at the Sennheiser HD598. I think they just came out with an all black version, too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Wed, 25 November 2015, 01:43:44
I need headphone therapy.  :'( With HE400I on sale for $299 this week, and noble having a 20% sale this friday, I am having a hard time keeping my wallet whole.

1964 ears is having a 20% off sale also and UE is offering the universal UE 900s free with any purchase of a UE Pro (excluding the UE4)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 27 November 2015, 10:59:28
The Fostex AH-X00 are up on Massdrop, I got myself a pair. Only 1950 units and over half have been taken up so far.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 27 November 2015, 11:05:07
The Fostex AH-X00 are up on Massdrop, I got myself a pair. Only 1950 units and over half have been taken up so far.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00)

I want one so bad T.T
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Fri, 27 November 2015, 11:08:41
The Fostex AH-X00 are up on Massdrop, I got myself a pair. Only 1950 units and over half have been taken up so far.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00)

I want one so bad T.T

Sigh. Decided to get them too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 27 November 2015, 11:09:57
The Fostex AH-X00 are up on Massdrop, I got myself a pair. Only 1950 units and over half have been taken up so far.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00)

I want one so bad T.T

Sigh. Decided to get them too.

STAHP. GIVE ME TIME TO SELL MY TOPRE
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Fri, 27 November 2015, 13:04:26
The Fostex AH-X00 are up on Massdrop, I got myself a pair. Only 1950 units and over half have been taken up so far.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00)

Ok I know next to nothing about headphones or the audiophile world, but I really like the look of those. Anyone know if these are worth the price compared to other cans in the $400 range?

Also, could anyone recommend a decent amp/DAC for them (if necessary)?

I'd like to treat my ears :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Fri, 27 November 2015, 13:27:17
Audioengine is having a 20% sale on their site with code BF20 and offering a free 90 day subscription to Tidal ($60 value) with orders.

http://audioengineusa.com/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sat, 28 November 2015, 13:31:47
TH-X00 HYPE  ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Sat, 28 November 2015, 17:03:23
I'm aboard the TH-X00 hype train too.

IEM's have spoiled me bad recently. My current headphone selection is boring as a result...

That said, anyone here have tried the Oppo HA-2? I want a better portable DAC/AMP than what I have now for the IEM's..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Mon, 30 November 2015, 09:30:25
The Fostex AH-X00 are up on Massdrop, I got myself a pair. Only 1950 units and over half have been taken up so far.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00)

I want one so bad T.T

Sigh. Decided to get them too.

STAHP. GIVE ME TIME TO SELL MY TOPRE

Only 142 left, going to make it? :O
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 30 November 2015, 09:45:42
The Fostex AH-X00 are up on Massdrop, I got myself a pair. Only 1950 units and over half have been taken up so far.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00 (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/fostex-x-massdrop-th-x00)

I want one so bad T.T

Sigh. Decided to get them too.

STAHP. GIVE ME TIME TO SELL MY TOPRE

Only 142 left, going to make it? :O

Nop, camera buyer dropped out and nobody bit for my HiPro board.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 30 November 2015, 09:55:00
I've asked around and I know a Fiio E10k will suffice for the TH-X00's.

How do the Fiio amps in the $150 range compare to the Audioengine D1 dac/amp? I would be willing to spend a little more for a decent desktop/speaker amp in case I want to pair it up with future purchases.

I guess my point is, I don't want just what's best for the TH-X00's but rather something that would be great further down the line as well, should I choose to purchase some higher end cans or speakers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Mon, 30 November 2015, 23:25:13
Can someone reccomend a good headphone under 200$ i have tried grado sr80e and i dont really like i think because of the treble

Well for whatever reason, you don't like them so don't force it.

I like the AKG K551 but the bass isn't that great on it and the treble is still sharp with crappy sources.

The audio technica m50x shouldn't be sharp or peaky in the treble (at least not as much as grado)
somone said that the m50x are overrated that i should be off getting ath m40x

http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448380441&sr=8-1&keywords=nvx+xpt100

or these ^  they're amazing cans for sub $200
its closed back right? NVX XPT100 or HD 598 or AKG or ATH-AD series?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 01 December 2015, 00:18:18
Can someone reccomend a good headphone under 200$ i have tried grado sr80e and i dont really like i think because of the treble

Well for whatever reason, you don't like them so don't force it.

I like the AKG K551 but the bass isn't that great on it and the treble is still sharp with crappy sources.

The audio technica m50x shouldn't be sharp or peaky in the treble (at least not as much as grado)
somone said that the m50x are overrated that i should be off getting ath m40x

http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448380441&sr=8-1&keywords=nvx+xpt100

or these ^  they're amazing cans for sub $200
its closed back right? NVX XPT100 or HD 598 or AKG or ATH-AD series?

It's closed back.  I recommend the XPT100s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Tue, 01 December 2015, 04:06:35
I've asked around and I know a Fiio E10k will suffice for the TH-X00's.

How do the Fiio amps in the $150 range compare to the Audioengine D1 dac/amp? I would be willing to spend a little more for a decent desktop/speaker amp in case I want to pair it up with future purchases.

I guess my point is, I don't want just what's best for the TH-X00's but rather something that would be great further down the line as well, should I choose to purchase some higher end cans or speakers.

FiiO's amp based on the TI6120A aren't that bad... but if you ever try something higher grade you'll lust for more.

Honestly, given the reviews of the Oppo HA-2, I would probably start with that. Or a Schiit stack.

I just don't like FiiO's tendency to stick with TI solid state stuff.

I've replaced my E17 + E09K stack with a Uberfrost and Magni. Pairs quite well on the T90 and DT880. I use a creative E5 exclusively on the SE846's which is being replaced by the Oppo HA-2.

I'll give the TH-X00 when it comes in a try on all of them and let you know how I feel about how they pair on my setups?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Tue, 01 December 2015, 06:17:44
I've asked around and I know a Fiio E10k will suffice for the TH-X00's.

How do the Fiio amps in the $150 range compare to the Audioengine D1 dac/amp? I would be willing to spend a little more for a decent desktop/speaker amp in case I want to pair it up with future purchases.

I guess my point is, I don't want just what's best for the TH-X00's but rather something that would be great further down the line as well, should I choose to purchase some higher end cans or speakers.

FiiO's amp based on the TI6120A aren't that bad... but if you ever try something higher grade you'll lust for more.

Honestly, given the reviews of the Oppo HA-2, I would probably start with that. Or a Schiit stack.

I just don't like FiiO's tendency to stick with TI solid state stuff.

I've replaced my E17 + E09K stack with a Uberfrost and Magni. Pairs quite well on the T90 and DT880. I use a creative E5 exclusively on the SE846's which is being replaced by the Oppo HA-2.

I'll give the TH-X00 when it comes in a try on all of them and let you know how I feel about how they pair on my setups?

I'd appreciate that!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 03 December 2015, 21:50:03
TH-X00 HYPE  ;D
Yep, much like the Chord Mojo hype train that has been making its round.

Take a look at the Sennheiser HD598. I think they just came out with an all black version, too.
It looks great, should sound great as well......I had the HD555 with the foam mod to sound like the HD595 (the HD595 sounds quite similar to the HD598 I believe). One thing to be aware of though, many have complained that the Sennheiser authentication failed on many of these HD598 SE's, while some suspect that the cans are fake (not likely since the HD598 SE was launched about a month back) others have suggested that the suthentication failed because Sennheiser had not had the time to update their database on their website.....just thought I'd put this out here fyi.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 03 December 2015, 22:06:27
Got the Fiio X7

HYPE
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Thu, 03 December 2015, 22:21:32
Got the Fiio X7

HYPE

From the Head-Fi tour? Or where? :O
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Thu, 03 December 2015, 22:27:47
I really want to try the Chord Mojo. Maybe it could replace my whole set up.  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Thu, 03 December 2015, 22:32:36
Something I have always wondered: how does the HD598 stack up the HD600 for classical music? I have a 598 and a 650, but have always wondered about the 600s. I figure there is no point for me to get the 600s if the 598s are good enough for classical, as that is the only genre I feel the 650s fall a bit short on.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Thu, 03 December 2015, 23:15:35
Hrm, so the HA-2 got here..

My suspicion and opinion about ESS dacs is actually confirmed. There's just a certain harshness to the highs that make it unbearable on some songs.

The Bifrost/Magni combo definitely sooths it out on these types of songs.

I'm loving it though, bass boost is so awesome on the T90s and SE846's. Noise floor is pretty good too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 03 December 2015, 23:39:56
You're boosting the bass on the se846's? Crazy guy

I find the 846's sound great straight out of the source.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Fri, 04 December 2015, 07:26:59
You're boosting the bass on the se846's? Crazy guy

I find the 846's sound great straight out of the source.

QFE

Its why I haven't replaced my WA6 yet. My HD650/WA6 combo was fantastic, but the 846s sound good without a stack in between. Which is why I've been having a hard time figuring what I do want. If I'm going to be spending the money, I want it to really bring out with the 846s are capable of.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Fri, 04 December 2015, 07:39:22
You're boosting the bass on the se846's? Crazy guy

I find the 846's sound great straight out of the source.

QFE

Its why I haven't replaced my WA6 yet. My HD650/WA6 combo was fantastic, but the 846s sound good without a stack in between. Which is why I've been having a hard time figuring what I do want. If I'm going to be spending the money, I want it to really bring out with the 846s are capable of.

I told myself i wouldn't get a portable setup but after getting the 846's and then later the AK Angie's, my desktop setup has been collecting dust. If you want the best out of the shure's i would recommend getting a nice portable player. You'll be dropping wads of cash though so not the smartest thing to do :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Fri, 04 December 2015, 07:47:43
The only 'portable' setup I need is for running, so my phone will do for that. I don't travel for work anymore, so an X5 or similar is no longer on the radar.

Otherwise, they're used at my desk at work, so a semi-portable stack, or a desk stack would be fine - it'll get plugged into my Surface for whatever media I decide to consume while I'm working.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 04 December 2015, 12:36:12
Something I have always wondered: how does the HD598 stack up the HD600 for classical music? I have a 598 and a 650, but have always wondered about the 600s. I figure there is no point for me to get the 600s if the 598s are good enough for classical, as that is the only genre I feel the 650s fall a bit short on.

I thought the 600 was almost identical to the 598 in sound quality?

Only ever heard the 598 and 650 myself, neither of which were terribly impressive but maybe the sennheiser reps just picked really ****ty dac and amp combos for them
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Fri, 04 December 2015, 12:49:18
Something I have always wondered: how does the HD598 stack up the HD600 for classical music? I have a 598 and a 650, but have always wondered about the 600s. I figure there is no point for me to get the 600s if the 598s are good enough for classical, as that is the only genre I feel the 650s fall a bit short on.

I thought the 600 was almost identical to the 598 in sound quality?

Only ever heard the 598 and 650 myself, neither of which were terribly impressive but maybe the sennheiser reps just picked really ****ty dac and amp combos for them

I'm not sure how the HD600's sound with classical music. However, jazz sounds incredible (Miles Davis vynil flac from archive.org). Using lyr with stock tubes and modi 2  :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 04 December 2015, 12:51:57
Something I have always wondered: how does the HD598 stack up the HD600 for classical music? I have a 598 and a 650, but have always wondered about the 600s. I figure there is no point for me to get the 600s if the 598s are good enough for classical, as that is the only genre I feel the 650s fall a bit short on.

I thought the 600 was almost identical to the 598 in sound quality?

Only ever heard the 598 and 650 myself, neither of which were terribly impressive but maybe the sennheiser reps just picked really ****ty dac and amp combos for them

I'm not sure how the HD600's sound with classical music. However, jazz sounds incredible (Miles Davis vynil flac from archive.org). Using lyr with stock tubes and modi 2  :thumb: :thumb:

Maybe the tube amp helps since I've only heard it with SS amps.

Also the X7 is pretty damn good but I don't think it will replace my AK240

The X7 has a really black background and good balance across the board. It has good output, I can feel the lower end on my AKG K551, something the AK240 doesn't do as well.

However I think the mids sound a bit hollow and the treble is smoothed significantly. I'll do more listening to verify all this.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Fri, 04 December 2015, 13:52:48

I thought the 600 was almost identical to the 598 in sound quality?

Only ever heard the 598 and 650 myself, neither of which were terribly impressive but maybe the sennheiser reps just picked really ****ty dac and amp combos for them

I tend to believe that as well, but head-fi and reddit would have you believe otherwise.

the senn HD6xx line was never meant to be "impressive", so I know what you mean. It's just a clean, smooth, relaxing sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 04 December 2015, 14:10:57

I thought the 600 was almost identical to the 598 in sound quality?

Only ever heard the 598 and 650 myself, neither of which were terribly impressive but maybe the sennheiser reps just picked really ****ty dac and amp combos for them

I tend to believe that as well, but head-fi and reddit would have you believe otherwise.

the senn HD6xx line was never meant to be "impressive", so I know what you mean. It's just a clean, smooth, relaxing sound.

That's not true at all.  The 6XX line was meant to be reference studio headphones.  It became what you described due to driver/enclosure limitations.  The HD600s were the TOTL reference headphones since the 1990s until advancements in technology got greater response, sensitivity, and lower distortion in smaller drivers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Fri, 04 December 2015, 14:41:10
You're boosting the bass on the se846's? Crazy guy

I find the 846's sound great straight out of the source.

Was just for "testing". But honestly, it sounded great. I accidentally left it on, after some while listening to the T90s. Thought it was just how it was.

The bass sounded _THAT_ good.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Fri, 04 December 2015, 15:00:24
Preview of my incoming amp :3
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Fri, 04 December 2015, 15:27:03
Preview of my incoming amp :3

Cute! I like it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Fri, 04 December 2015, 15:49:59

I thought the 600 was almost identical to the 598 in sound quality?

Only ever heard the 598 and 650 myself, neither of which were terribly impressive but maybe the sennheiser reps just picked really ****ty dac and amp combos for them

I tend to believe that as well, but head-fi and reddit would have you believe otherwise.

the senn HD6xx line was never meant to be "impressive", so I know what you mean. It's just a clean, smooth, relaxing sound.

That's not true at all.  The 6XX line was meant to be reference studio headphones.  It became what you described due to driver/enclosure limitations.  The HD600s were the TOTL reference headphones since the 1990s until advancements in technology got greater response, sensitivity, and lower distortion in smaller drivers.

I'm not quite sure what you are claiming to not be true, nor do I see how "reference studio headphones" is mutually exclusive to "clean, smooth, relaxing" sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 05 December 2015, 00:18:38

I thought the 600 was almost identical to the 598 in sound quality?

Only ever heard the 598 and 650 myself, neither of which were terribly impressive but maybe the sennheiser reps just picked really ****ty dac and amp combos for them

I tend to believe that as well, but head-fi and reddit would have you believe otherwise.

the senn HD6xx line was never meant to be "impressive", so I know what you mean. It's just a clean, smooth, relaxing sound.

That's not true at all.  The 6XX line was meant to be reference studio headphones.  It became what you described due to driver/enclosure limitations.  The HD600s were the TOTL reference headphones since the 1990s until advancements in technology got greater response, sensitivity, and lower distortion in smaller drivers.

I'm not quite sure what you are claiming to not be true, nor do I see how "reference studio headphones" is mutually exclusive to "clean, smooth, relaxing" sound.

I think he was referring to your "The HD6xx line was never meant to be "impressive"" comment. There definitely was not as many expensive headphones in the 90's as today, and the HD-600 was considered one of the best during its time. It was either the HD-600, or the $700 Grado RS-1's. And during its time... the HD-600 was quite revolutionary and "impressive" when it came to treble detail.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sat, 05 December 2015, 00:34:01
Just bought a pair of Philips Fidelio X2s yesterday! Excited to see how they are compared to my current dt990 pros and se535s. :) I will post again once they have arrived.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vegs on Sun, 06 December 2015, 11:38:04
I could use some input on my setup... I've had the Audio Technica ATH-M50 for a few years now, and I love them.

But close to a year ago I bought the AKG Q701 and a MonoPrice DAC / AMP (http://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=11567) on Massdrop. My problem is that I keep going back to the M50s. I find the Q701 lacking in both comfort and sound, but I'm starting to wonder if the problem is my dac/amp. Should I just accept that the AKGs aren't for me, or should I try with a different dac/amp?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 06 December 2015, 12:15:33
I could use some input on my setup... I've had the Audio Technica ATH-M50 for a few years now, and I love them.

But close to a year ago I bought the AKG Q701 and a MonoPrice DAC / AMP (http://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=11567) on Massdrop. My problem is that I keep going back to the M50s. I find the Q701 lacking in both comfort and sound, but I'm starting to wonder if the problem is my dac/amp. Should I just accept that the AKGs aren't for me, or should I try with a different dac/amp?

Don't force yourself to like a pair of headphones. I tried that with the Beyer T5p.

Q701 are very dry and bright. If it's not for you, it's not for you.

M50s are definitely not nearly as bright and if anything should be more neutral.

Try the NAD HP50 for something more fun and bass heavy. You should be able to get it used with the money from selling / returning the Q701
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vegs on Sun, 06 December 2015, 12:40:15
I could use some input on my setup... I've had the Audio Technica ATH-M50 for a few years now, and I love them.

But close to a year ago I bought the AKG Q701 and a MonoPrice DAC / AMP (http://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=11567) on Massdrop. My problem is that I keep going back to the M50s. I find the Q701 lacking in both comfort and sound, but I'm starting to wonder if the problem is my dac/amp. Should I just accept that the AKGs aren't for me, or should I try with a different dac/amp?

Don't force yourself to like a pair of headphones. I tried that with the Beyer T5p.

Q701 are very dry and bright. If it's not for you, it's not for you.

M50s are definitely not nearly as bright and if anything should be more neutral.

Try the NAD HP50 for something more fun and bass heavy. You should be able to get it used with the money from selling / returning the Q701
You're right. I'll definitely check those out. I was looking for something with a bit more bass, so they might fit me perfectly. Thanks :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 06 December 2015, 16:27:19
Tried the HueStyle QP1R, the Fiio X7 and the AK240 side by side using the AKG K551

Damn is the HueStyle good.

Very smooth and sweet. Not too slow, not too fast.
The X7 is very neutral and electric-like. Very dark background. A bit V shaped.

AK240 is like listening to a higher end tube amp. Slightly laid back, very warm and inviting sound.

The X7 has some oddities in the sound. Besides being slightly V shaped, the mids are quite hollow.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Sun, 06 December 2015, 21:24:40

I think he was referring to your "The HD6xx line was never meant to be "impressive"" comment. There definitely was not as many expensive headphones in the 90's as today, and the HD-600 was considered one of the best during its time. It was either the HD-600, or the $700 Grado RS-1's. And during its time... the HD-600 was quite revolutionary and "impressive" when it came to treble detail.

I put "impressive" in quotes to emphasize that the HD600 was not meant to impress people in the traditional sense, i.e. blow them away with a strong, exciting sound signature. It was meant to provide high fidelity audio reproduction, which means it does not have that "wow" factor unless you are a hardcore audiophile who specifically looks for neutral response.

It is an extremely good headphone, and a classic. But I don't think it's sound signature is "exciting" like say, something from the ATH line, or modern planars.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: raymogi on Sun, 06 December 2015, 21:31:31
I need a suggestion for over the ear headphones.

Been using this DITA in-ears for a while now, but mostly when I travel: http://www.ditaaudio.com/index.php/products/answer-truth-edition.html

I have since bought the Steelseries H wireless (which I thought I'm gonna use for gaming), but I don't game anymore now and also the Bose Soundlink wireless. They're good but compared to the DITAs they lack that oomph.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 06 December 2015, 21:40:10
I need a suggestion for over the ear headphones.

Been using this DITA in-ears for a while now, but mostly when I travel: http://www.ditaaudio.com/index.php/products/answer-truth-edition.html

I have since bought the Steelseries H wireless (which I thought I'm gonna use for gaming), but I don't game anymore now and also the Bose Soundlink wireless. They're good but compared to the DITAs they lack that oomph.

HE560?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: raymogi on Sun, 06 December 2015, 21:44:32
HE560?

Hmm I'll do some research on it. Certainly look the part.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trenzafeeds on Sun, 06 December 2015, 21:45:21
Can anyone recommend like under $100 headphones that will be comfortable and the best quality for the price? I know that's kind of a tall order, but I don't know much about this stuff.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 06 December 2015, 21:53:58
Can anyone recommend like under $100 headphones that will be comfortable and the best quality for the price? I know that's kind of a tall order, but I don't know much about this stuff.

If it's strictly under $100 then there are a few choices. I think rebrands of the Fischer Audio FA-003 (?) Such as the brainwavs HM5.

Otherwise the M50x are always a classic that are good for the price range.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Sun, 06 December 2015, 21:54:00
Can anyone recommend like under $100 headphones that will be comfortable and the best quality for the price? I know that's kind of a tall order, but I don't know much about this stuff.

http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Sun, 06 December 2015, 22:00:57
Brother i need some recommendation on open back headphone. My choice is between ath ad900x, Akg q701 and the senheiser 598 what is better? And are there anything that is better than my choice?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sun, 06 December 2015, 22:22:53
Brother i need some recommendation on open back headphone. My choice is between ath ad900x, Akg q701 and the senheiser 598 what is better? And are there anything that is better than my choice?

I personally like the W5000 from audio technica a lot. A decent condition pair on the used market doesn't sell for that much and sounds nice.

Of course, this is preference based.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 06 December 2015, 23:08:12
Brother i need some recommendation on open back headphone. My choice is between ath ad900x, Akg q701 and the senheiser 598 what is better? And are there anything that is better than my choice?

You might want to stay away from open cans at that the $100 and below.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Sun, 06 December 2015, 23:10:34
Brother i need some recommendation on open back headphone. My choice is between ath ad900x, Akg q701 and the senheiser 598 what is better? And are there anything that is better than my choice?

You might want to stay away from open cans at that the $100 and below.
Well this can cost 150+
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Sun, 06 December 2015, 23:15:34
Brother i need some recommendation on open back headphone. My choice is between ath ad900x, Akg q701 and the senheiser 598 what is better? And are there anything that is better than my choice?

You might want to stay away from open cans at that the $100 and below.
Well this can cost 150+

My preferences push me toward faster drivers.  HiFiMan's 400i is a great headphone unless you want to want to take it out in public.  You'd look like a Franken-kid.

Honestly you should be looking at the AKG 7XX from massdrop if you need to stay with dynamic drivers.  It's a gem on all accounts in the budget open cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trenzafeeds on Mon, 07 December 2015, 00:52:25
If it's strictly under $100 then there are a few choices. I think rebrands of the Fischer Audio FA-003 (?) Such as the brainwavs HM5.

Otherwise the M50x are always a classic that are good for the price range.

Can anyone recommend like under $100 headphones that will be comfortable and the best quality for the price? I know that's kind of a tall order, but I don't know much about this stuff.

http://www.amazon.com/NVX-Over-Ear-Headphones-ComfortMax-Cushions/dp/B0093PVTPS

Thanks folks  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Mon, 07 December 2015, 05:41:03
Brother i need some recommendation on open back headphone. My choice is between ath ad900x, Akg q701 and the senheiser 598 what is better? And are there anything that is better than my choice?

You might want to stay away from open cans at that the $100 and below.
Well this can cost 150+

My preferences push me toward faster drivers.  HiFiMan's 400i is a great headphone unless you want to want to take it out in public.  You'd look like a Franken-kid.

Honestly you should be looking at the AKG 7XX from massdrop if you need to stay with dynamic drivers.  It's a gem on all accounts in the budget open cans.
thx for the reply man i think the hifiman 400 is better. i never use headphone in public  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 07 December 2015, 09:01:34
I personally like the W5000 from audio technica a lot. A decent condition pair on the used market doesn't sell for that much and sounds nice.

Of course, this is preference based.
Yep, totally agree about the personal preference part. I had the ATH-W5000 and I find myself totally disliking its signature sound.....much like the much hyped Beyerdynamic DT-1350 which I'd disliked equally. Had both but have since sold them away.... :-[ Meanwhile, totally loved my Denons (both AH-D7000 and AH-D2000).

@bocahgundul, IF you can find a used Fidelio X2 for somewhat more than what you'd budgeted, or a Denon AH-D2000, snag either one! I don't know what the going rate is for either one (used), but they'd be well worth the money. Oh yeah, the AKG K7XX is very good as well.....no experience with the K7XX but the general consensus is they're worth the money.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Mon, 07 December 2015, 09:28:54
I personally like the W5000 from audio technica a lot. A decent condition pair on the used market doesn't sell for that much and sounds nice.

Of course, this is preference based.
Yep, totally agree about the personal preference part. I had the ATH-W5000 and I find myself totally disliking its signature sound.....much like the much hyped Beyerdynamic DT-1350 which I'd disliked equally. Had both but have since sold them away.... :-[ Meanwhile, totally loved my Denons (both AH-D7000 and AH-D2000).

@bocahgundul, IF you can find a used Fidelio X2 for somewhat more than what you'd budgeted, or a Denon AH-D2000, snag either one! I don't know what the going rate is for either one (used), but they'd be well worth the money. Oh yeah, the AKG K7XX is very good as well.....no experience with the K7XX but the general consensus is they're worth the money.
Well i could get the fidelio under 170 dollar
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 07 December 2015, 09:34:12
Any one get the massdrop TH-x00's? wondering how they are compared to the 600 and 900 ^^
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Mon, 07 December 2015, 09:40:18
I'm using a pair of Audeze LCD-2.2's, currently being driven by a Aune X1 amp/DAC.

The DAC is pretty decent, but it's lacking the horse power to sufficiently drive the Audeze cans. It sounds good, but I know they can sound even better with a more powerful amp behind it, like the Mjolnir that I heard them on before I bought them. Still not sure what to throw my money after.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Mon, 07 December 2015, 09:57:00
Any one get the massdrop TH-x00's? wondering how they are compared to the 600 and 900 ^^

Mine are out for delivery. I haven't listened to the 600 or 900 though. But, others should be getting their's today and tomorrow I expect.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 07 December 2015, 09:58:07
Any one get the massdrop TH-x00's? wondering how they are compared to the 600 and 900 ^^

Mine are out for delivery. I haven't listened to the 600 or 900 though. But, others should be getting their's today and tomorrow I expect.

Same. But I'm in Canada so I'll probably be getting them later than most.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 07 December 2015, 10:04:33
Any one get the massdrop TH-x00's? wondering how they are compared to the 600 and 900 ^^

Mine are out for delivery. I haven't listened to the 600 or 900 though. But, others should be getting their's today and tomorrow I expect.

Same. But I'm in Canada so I'll probably be getting them later than most.
Lend them to me for a week? =P

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 07 December 2015, 10:05:14
Yeah, where you at? I wanna compare to my 600's :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 07 December 2015, 10:09:19
Any one get the massdrop TH-x00's? wondering how they are compared to the 600 and 900 ^^

Mine are out for delivery. I haven't listened to the 600 or 900 though. But, others should be getting their's today and tomorrow I expect.

Same. But I'm in Canada so I'll probably be getting them later than most.
Lend them to me for a week? =P

Did you want to do a review? :3 I'm in your neighbouring province, and I would actually consider it. Depends on how soon you'd want them though - I want some time to myself with them first, but I may be driving up to Montreal sometime in January/February for a festival.

Yeah, where you at? I wanna compare to my 600's :D

New Brunswick  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 07 December 2015, 10:10:27
Guess we're meeting up at gl1tch's place since he's in the middle.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 07 December 2015, 10:17:26
Guess we're meeting up at gl1tch's place since he's in the middle.

Sounds good. Then you guys can talk about it's "sound signature" with extremely colourful language that will make me feel like I'm taking a wine tasting class all over again.

Cause these are my first real headphones and I need an Audiophile 101 crash course...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 07 December 2015, 10:19:31
Guess we're meeting up at gl1tch's place since he's in the middle.

Sounds good. Then you guys can talk about it's "sound signature" with extremely colourful language that will make me feel like I'm taking a wine tasting class all over again.

Cause these are my first real headphones and I need an Audiophile 101 crash course...

I might by one on the used market before then =P

But HMU when you're in Montreal and I'll try and plan the keyboard meet for that time too.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 07 December 2015, 10:23:46

I might by one on the used market before then =P

But HMU when you're in Montreal and I'll try and plan the keyboard meet for that time too.

I see some people on MD are already pawning theirs off :P

And I definitely will! Didn't know Canadian keyboard meetups existed! Do we just sit around and complain about shipping price & time/duty/taxes/conversion rate?  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trenzafeeds on Mon, 07 December 2015, 10:47:04

I might by one on the used market before then =P

But HMU when you're in Montreal and I'll try and plan the keyboard meet for that time too.

I see some people on MD are already pawning theirs off :P

And I definitely will! Didn't know Canadian keyboard meetups existed! Do we just sit around and complain about shipping price & time/duty/taxes/conversion rate?  :))

I live in Burlington VT (literally Canada), and I would love to have a northeaster meetup. I posted a thread about one a couple months ago, and it seems like others would be interested.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 07 December 2015, 11:23:11

I might by one on the used market before then =P

But HMU when you're in Montreal and I'll try and plan the keyboard meet for that time too.

I see some people on MD are already pawning theirs off :P

And I definitely will! Didn't know Canadian keyboard meetups existed! Do we just sit around and complain about shipping price & time/duty/taxes/conversion rate?  :))

Those duties, eh?

I know, that conversion rate too, eh?

But no, that's not all we talk aboot.

I definitely want one after I sell this camera and such.

But I can't afford one right now so I guess after christmas once one of the 1950 decide they want to sell theirs for a reasonable price I'll buy one.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Mon, 07 December 2015, 15:10:21
Geekhack HeadFi meetup?

I'm in CA, if anyone wants to meet here too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 07 December 2015, 15:34:52
Geekhack HeadFi meetup?

I'm in CA, if anyone wants to meet here too.

You're welcome to take a plane here!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Mon, 07 December 2015, 17:31:48
Geekhack HeadFi meetup?

I'm in CA, if anyone wants to meet here too.

You're welcome to take a plane here!

Maybe.. I won't feel safe bringing all my audio equipment up on a plane, as I'd want to hand carry them.

TSA: "You mean these headphone looking thingys are not bombs????"
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Mon, 07 December 2015, 19:57:58
Geekhack HeadFi meetup?

I'm in CA, if anyone wants to meet here too.

You're welcome to take a plane here!

Maybe.. I won't feel safe bringing all my audio equipment up on a plane, as I'd want to hand carry them.

TSA: "You mean these headphone looking thingys are not bombs????"

They actually didn't seem to mind any of my electronics...

I brought a camera, headphones, DAP, tablet, etc. Into the cabin. No comment from security.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Mon, 07 December 2015, 20:18:44
Bro does fidelio x2 needs amp? Cause i'm planning to get this cans
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Mon, 07 December 2015, 21:08:30
Bro does fidelio x2 needs amp? Cause i'm planning to get this cans

I have a pair of x2s in the mail too :) I have heard that they don't need an amp, however I am sure it can't hurt, and might help a bit. I have a schitt fulla and aune t1 that I am plannign to test them out with. Hoping to eventually sell the aune though, because i am not a huge fan of it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Mon, 07 December 2015, 21:52:50
Bro does fidelio x2 needs amp? Cause i'm planning to get this cans

I have a pair of x2s in the mail too :) I have heard that they don't need an amp, however I am sure it can't hurt, and might help a bit. I have a schitt fulla and aune t1 that I am plannign to test them out with. Hoping to eventually sell the aune though, because i am not a huge fan of it.
You fulla schiit mann nice amp :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ttzhou on Mon, 07 December 2015, 22:03:49

They actually didn't seem to mind any of my electronics...

I brought a camera, headphones, DAP, tablet, etc. Into the cabin. No comment from security.

I think they pay more attention to things that are out of the ordinary and obscure, like pop cans or toothpaste (hence the ban on most of these things). the scans would definitely pick up any suspicious machinery in those things.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Tue, 08 December 2015, 05:52:13
Bro does fidelio x2 needs amp? Cause i'm planning to get this cans

Because of their low impedance (30 ohms) they are quite easy to drive, and should sound fine straight from your phone or computer. However, like with most other headphones, I do find that they perform better while hooked up to an amp of decent quality.

I can't recommend the X2's enough. For the money, they're an amazing pair of cans.  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Tue, 08 December 2015, 09:14:28
Bro does fidelio x2 needs amp? Cause i'm planning to get this cans

Because of their low impedance (30 ohms) they are quite easy to drive, and should sound fine straight from your phone or computer. However, like with most other headphones, I do find that they perform better while hooked up to an amp of decent quality.

I can't recommend the X2's enough. For the money, they're an amazing pair of cans.  :)
What about the dt880 250 ohm bro? If they're slightly better with good amp than the fidelio x2 without amp than i'm 100% will go with x2. But if dt880 sound way better wiht amp i will think about getting the dt880 even tho my budget are 200$  :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Tue, 08 December 2015, 09:54:43
I haven't heard the fidelios, but aren't they supposed to have a very different sound signature?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Tue, 08 December 2015, 11:38:55
The DT880's and the X2's are indeed two very different sounding headphones. It's hard to compare and ultimately comes down to preference. The DT880's are brighter and more neutral sounding, where the X2's have more of a 'fun' sound (slight boost in the treble- and bass area). Both are excellent headphones though, but I would personally favor the X2's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Tue, 08 December 2015, 18:09:41
The DT880's and the X2's are indeed two very different sounding headphones. It's hard to compare and ultimately comes down to preference. The DT880's are brighter and more neutral sounding, where the X2's have more of a 'fun' sound (slight boost in the treble- and bass area). Both are excellent headphones though, but I would personally favor the X2's.
thank you now i will order the fidelio
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Wed, 09 December 2015, 07:32:01
thank you now i will order the fidelio

Enjoy, buddy.  :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Wed, 09 December 2015, 19:38:23
IMO, the DT880 600Ohm, really shines with a well paired amp. For example, the DT880 600ohm always sounded "meh" on the FiiO E09K + E17, Asus Xonar, and Creative E5. But really opened up on the Oppo HA-2. Changed the "character" quite a bit, in a really good way. Super neutral, and not bright even with the ESS dac on the HA-2.

The T90 however, because it's so sensitive, doesn't really pair well on the ESS dac, in comparison to my Schiit Stack.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:12:47
Just got my TH-X00's today, haven't listened to them enough to give an opinion yet but so far I'm loving them. :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:19:51
Just got my TH-X00's today, haven't listened to them enough to give an opinion yet but so far I'm loving them. :D

I'm really digging mine. The harshness I experienced the first night is gone - likely I'm used to the signature now. Listened to them for several hours at work today, not fatiguing at all.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 09 December 2015, 21:22:24
T.T

I want a pair
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Wed, 09 December 2015, 21:24:29
Turns out my fidelio x2s got shipped the slowest possible method.  :( Two weeks to travel from Toronto to BC.  :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Thu, 10 December 2015, 06:13:06
Turns out my fidelio x2s got shipped the slowest possible method.  :( Two weeks to travel from Toronto to BC.  :'(

I didn't think the sled-dogs were out yet.  :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 10 December 2015, 13:22:52
Turns out my fidelio x2s got shipped the slowest possible method.  :( Two weeks to travel from Toronto to BC.  :'(

I didn't think the sled-dogs were out yet.  :eek:

Actually, the tracking updated last night and went from an eta of next wednesday, to showing up on my doorstep this morning :D

(http://i.imgur.com/1GVAABJ.jpg)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: E3E on Thu, 10 December 2015, 13:49:14
I used to lurk on Head-Fi back from around 2006 - 2008 and sporadically ever since. I'm simply not erm, financially solvent enough (I'm po'), to stay in the hobby, and my cans sort of reflect the era of when I got into it (Especially the EMU 0404 USB I have -- there are so many sweet DACs these days, but this thing got a lot of great reviews back in the day). I was like, 16-18 then, but these two phones are still my favorites and I use them both for audio work and gaming. 
 
(http://puu.sh/lQEYo/24a7eb62fd.JPG)

Restored the the outer side of the ear pads as Sony cut costs by making the half that rests on your ears real lambskin while doing up the rear half in artificial leather, and that stuff does not like humid environments.
 
(http://puu.sh/lQFsZ/21a5e43b5b.JPG)

Also modded these to have detachable cables, which is nice, but sometimes more trouble than its worth. 
 
(http://puu.sh/lQFzL/d7922ba76b.JPG)

Next are my Sony MDR-CD3000s, which I bought used for a decent price back when eBay was running some cash rebate deal.  They were really really beat up and looked like they were left in the sun for too long. 

(http://puu.sh/lQFHe/312c40ec48.JPG)

About a year ago, I decided to restore it and hand-stitched new ear pads, head band, and the self-adjusting mechanism from Italian lambskin leather, memory foam, and Japanese silk thread.

I know, given that it was my first time, it didn't come out perfect (I really should've spent the money on leather piercing tools), but I'm happy with it and they feel and sound so much better now.

(http://puu.sh/lQFSH/59afe21d22.JPG)

Also gave it a detachable cable mod, restored some of the plastic that was starting to chip away from one of the hangers, and restored the foam padding surrounding the ear cup and some foam that was in between the driver and the cloth covering.
 
Overall, I'm super happy with them. Someday, I'll get some newer gear. Maybe the HD800s (only Sennheisers that appeal to me), or some R10s or Qualia 010s, lolol. A dream~
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eksuen on Thu, 10 December 2015, 13:54:47
Geekhack HeadFi meetup?

I'm in CA, if anyone wants to meet here too.

I might be interested. I am in CA too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Thu, 10 December 2015, 17:06:58
Just got my TH-X00's today, haven't listened to them enough to give an opinion yet but so far I'm loving them. :D

I'm really digging mine. The harshness I experienced the first night is gone - likely I'm used to the signature now. Listened to them for several hours at work today, not fatiguing at all.

Aw glad to see you don't have the problem anymore, definitely my go to headphones for the time being. Now time for me to invest in a better amp/odac. :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Thu, 10 December 2015, 22:33:13
First impressions on the TH-X00... These are very, very, very different to all of the headphones I have owned. At first I was like crap... I might not like these.

Played a few songs.. hrmm.. ok, bass is is definitely there, very different. Mids are a bit recessed, ok, expected that. Treble... hrm, It's missing a bit of the "ring" and decay that I would come to expect from my usual range of headphones..

Few different songs later.. increasing volume on my Bifrost Uber + Modi stack...

Adele - Hello comes on.

HOLY F**K

THIS IS VERY DIFFERENT, IN A VERY GOOD WAY.

While its character as a headphone isn't as full-range from I would have hoped, it definitely has a bit of my SE846 character. Maybe not as detailed just yet ( I believe in mild burn in ) the bass is pretty awesome, not as accurate as the SE846, but it's there, and noticeable. The voice of Adele is very well rendered, gives me goose bumps. In fact I think the voice of adele in this particular song is better rendered vs the T90 on the HA-2. Reduces alot of the harshness. The T90 on the schiit stack was borderline unbearable.

Also, it helps that it's semi-closed so I don't hear the clack of my keyboards  :thumb:

Update: Tried it on the HA-2. Definetly different sound signature on it. It's a tad more forward than the Schiit. As if you were sitting closer to your loudspeakers kind of. I can't comment on sound stage just yet, but I think these definitely sound closer to the SE846 on the HA-2.

On the Schiit they sound a bit more laid back, I guess less fatiguing in a way.

(http://i.imgur.com/jmtCD8f.jpg)


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Fri, 11 December 2015, 04:17:05
These fidelio x2 are so goooooooooood matee
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Fri, 11 December 2015, 05:03:01
Brother i need some recommendation on open back headphone. My choice is between ath ad900x, Akg q701 and the senheiser 598 what is better? And are there anything that is better than my choice?

You might want to stay away from open cans at that the $100 and below.
Well this can cost 150+

My preferences push me toward faster drivers.  HiFiMan's 400i is a great headphone unless you want to want to take it out in public.  You'd look like a Franken-kid.

Honestly you should be looking at the AKG 7XX from massdrop if you need to stay with dynamic drivers.  It's a gem on all accounts in the budget open cans.

Binge man, the lack of a removable cable is a dealbreaker for me on the 7XX AKG's. Doesn't that bother you?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Fri, 11 December 2015, 06:53:18
The TH-X00 is a sweet looking pair of cans. Almost makes me want to go pick up a pair of closed-back again.  :rolleyes:

These fidelio x2 are so goooooooooood matee

Happy to hear you're liking them so far, buddy.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: E3E on Fri, 11 December 2015, 08:48:17
TFW no one cares about your decades old cans, ahahaha. Fostex and Denon cans look like they'd be a fantastic jump off point from the MDR-CD3000s.  Did I mention the Sonys always go for a small fortune on eBay these days? (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sony-MDR-CD3000-CD-Series-Headphones-with-Bio-Cellulose-Diaphragm-Black-Gray-/262167214744?hash=item3d0a623a98%3Ag%3A~5sAAOSwgyxWW3Zw&nma=true&si=9Ba%252FCfHEbEBqYK8fClKFuHZquqs%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557) 
 
I've never delved too far back into the vintage era of headphones. The CD3ks are from the early 90s, SA5ks from the mid 00s, but I've seen talk about these Sansui headphones (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sansui-SS-100-Omni-Dynamic-Headphones/121831469453?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140602152332%26meid%3Dae7558fcec7045008a7a7d12f3326880%26pid%3D100011%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D4%26sd%3D262167214744), and they seem like great vintage cans.

That price though! I love their look.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cookiesowns on Sat, 12 December 2015, 00:10:59
Has anyone here gotten the 4490 upgrade for their bifrost? I'm highly contemplating it, given how good these TH-X00 sounds on the 4390 right now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 12 December 2015, 05:07:05
These fidelio x2 are so goooooooooood matee
Glas to hear you're enjoying that badboy! :thumb: I have the X1, it sounds a tad dark but still enjoyable....the X2's supposed to be an improvement over the much liked X1. Be careful though, this audio hobby can be quite detrimental to the health of your bank account.... :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sat, 12 December 2015, 08:28:46
Ah, those MDR-CD3000's... I had a pair, and I always regretted selling them. Nowadays I make it a point not to be swayed by internet opinions, because I sold them due to their "sibilance", but in retrospect I should have just learned to accept its faults and enjoy its strengths (that's the only way I can maintain sanity in buying anything based on the flood of internet reviews out there, really).

But not a big deal, since I've made it up by buying a pair of TH-900's. 8^)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: E3E on Sat, 12 December 2015, 09:04:22
Ah, those MDR-CD3000's... I had a pair, and I always regretted selling them. Nowadays I make it a point not to be swayed by internet opinions, because I sold them due to their "sibilance", but in retrospect I should have just learned to accept its faults and enjoy its strengths (that's the only way I can maintain sanity in buying anything based on the flood of internet reviews out there, really).

But not a big deal, since I've made it up by buying a pair of TH-900's. 8^)

I definitely understand your remarks about the sibilance and what not. On both of the Sony cans I have, the treble is very pronounced at times, but a little dampening foam between the driver and cloth cover helped that a lot! The seal of the leather conversely made the treble worse while also making the bass a lot nicer. It kind of evened out. I tried some acoustic mods to play with its sound profile some, but the foam was all I was ever happy with.
 
It's crazy how much even beat up CD3000s are selling for these days. People seem to have a soft spot for the old Sony headphones. :)

Ooooh, Fostex TH-900s? Yeah, those are REALLY pretty and look like they'd be an excellent pair to jump to after using the CD3ks for so long, much in the way I feel Sennheiser HD800s would be a good candidate to replace my Sony MDR-SA5000s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: graefeln on Sat, 12 December 2015, 16:07:02
Had my wife knit me a cover for the headband - so much more comfortable:

(http://i.imgur.com/TiHBaZl.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 12 December 2015, 16:42:10
Ah, those MDR-CD3000's... I had a pair, and I always regretted selling them. Nowadays I make it a point not to be swayed by internet opinions, because I sold them due to their "sibilance", but in retrospect I should have just learned to accept its faults and enjoy its strengths (that's the only way I can maintain sanity in buying anything based on the flood of internet reviews out there, really).

But not a big deal, since I've made it up by buying a pair of TH-900's. 8^)

I definitely understand your remarks about the sibilance and what not. On both of the Sony cans I have, the treble is very pronounced at times, but a little dampening foam between the driver and cloth cover helped that a lot! The seal of the leather conversely made the treble worse while also making the bass a lot nicer. It kind of evened out. I tried some acoustic mods to play with its sound profile some, but the foam was all I was ever happy with.
 
It's crazy how much even beat up CD3000s are selling for these days. People seem to have a soft spot for the old Sony headphones. :)

The ony SA5000 was seriously impressive in the treble region but the sennheisers were definitely better overall!

Ooooh, Fostex TH-900s? Yeah, those are REALLY pretty and look like they'd be an excellent pair to jump to after using the CD3ks for so long, much in the way I feel Sennheiser HD800s would be a good candidate to replace my Sony MDR-SA5000s.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Sat, 12 December 2015, 20:15:31
so, without hitting the 1k mark.. what is there after my th600?

i love these. i can't believe i was thinking of getting rid of them after i got my speakers. they're so damn comfortable i could wear them for 10+ hrs (and have) and not get a headache.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Sat, 12 December 2015, 22:14:47
so, without hitting the 1k mark.. what is there after my th600?

i love these. i can't believe i was thinking of getting rid of them after i got my speakers. they're so damn comfortable i could wear them for 10+ hrs (and have) and not get a headache.

TH900 is an upgrade from what I've heard. I never tried the TH600 but the 900 is amazing with a bit of EQ.

Used TH900 runs 800-900 depending on condition.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sun, 13 December 2015, 04:45:05
Quote
It's crazy how much even beat up CD3000s are selling for these days. People seem to have a soft spot for the old Sony headphones. :)

Ooooh, Fostex TH-900s? Yeah, those are REALLY pretty and look like they'd be an excellent pair to jump to after using the CD3ks for so long, much in the way I feel Sennheiser HD800s would be a good candidate to replace my Sony MDR-SA5000s.

Yea... not surprised to hear that the old CD3000's are still selling well. It wasn't a mainstream hit like the Sennheiser HD-580/HD-600 at the time, but people who really loved them, loved them.

They were pretty much the reason I bought the TH-900, lol. I wanted a closed headphone with some solid bass. I think I might prefer the sound signature of the CD3000 a little bit more, though, because the TH-900 has a tint of darkness. But in terms of technical performance, the TH-900 is just amazing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sun, 13 December 2015, 04:54:33
so, without hitting the 1k mark.. what is there after my th600?

i love these. i can't believe i was thinking of getting rid of them after i got my speakers. they're so damn comfortable i could wear them for 10+ hrs (and have) and not get a headache.

Hmm... no disrespect to Glitched, but if you already have a TH-600, I would go for a headphone with a different sound signature. The TH-900 will definitely be an improvement over the TH-600 in terms of technical performance (from what I've read this seems to include stuff like resolution, separation of instruments, etc.), but I have a feeling the sound signature will still be a similar "Fostex" house sound. Not that I dislike the Fostex sound, but what's the point in having two headphones with similar sound signatures?

Personally, if I had a TH-600, I would go in the complete opposite direction with the next headphone, and maybe pick up an open-backed headphone with a more "neutral" sound, like a pair of Sennheiser HD-600, or one of those Hifi-mans. I didn't really like Hifi-mans at first, but I grew to love their sound as I demo'ed them more and more at headphone meets. You can even go YOLO and try to snipe an HD-800 for a good deal on eBay. I'm sure there will be a retailer or two who would be willing to cut you a good deal - I was able to bring the price down of my TH-900 from $1300 to $1150 shipped, brand new.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: genkidama on Sun, 13 December 2015, 10:30:53
Hey there friends, I hope to find some help in search of new headphones for me.

I used the Bose AE from way back (2009/2010) and they served me well until now where they broke completely. It would be best to buy new ones rather repair them as it seems like the cost would be the same.
I'm more of a neutral guy, I listen to a lot of different genres of music so an overall headphone would be best I guess. Correct me if I'm wrong. I mostly listen to music while I'm outside going to work, university, sports etc. So I guess they need to be quite durable and easy to put away if I don't need them anymore. I prefer on-ear headphones than around-ear or in-ears and if they have a build-in microfon will be a plus!
My price range would be 150€ tops. But I'm not totally against a headphone that is a bit above my pricetag if it's worth it.

As I only knew Bose headphones I looked some of the newer models up and I think the Bose SoundLink Bluetooth could be nice as when I'm doing sports the cable doesn't get in my way and other than that I can use the cable or so I thought.

Any suggestions or other infos you guys may need? I'm quite lost at this  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Sun, 13 December 2015, 18:56:37
Hey there friends, I hope to find some help in search of new headphones for me.

I used the Bose AE from way back (2009/2010) and they served me well until now where they broke completely. It would be best to buy new ones rather repair them as it seems like the cost would be the same.
I'm more of a neutral guy, I listen to a lot of different genres of music so an overall headphone would be best I guess. Correct me if I'm wrong. I mostly listen to music while I'm outside going to work, university, sports etc. So I guess they need to be quite durable and easy to put away if I don't need them anymore. I prefer on-ear headphones than around-ear or in-ears and if they have a build-in microfon will be a plus!
My price range would be 150€ tops. But I'm not totally against a headphone that is a bit above my pricetag if it's worth it.

As I only knew Bose headphones I looked some of the newer models up and I think the Bose SoundLink Bluetooth could be nice as when I'm doing sports the cable doesn't get in my way and other than that I can use the cable or so I thought.

Any suggestions or other infos you guys may need? I'm quite lost at this  :rolleyes:

I don't know too many of the headphones in the $150 range, but perhaps the Audio Technica ATH-M50x? They are pretty popular, and since they're a closed headphone, they should work well for the work-place. I understand you prefer on-ear, though, which is why I mentioned I don't know too many headphones in the $150 range (because there are so many).

The other popular brand that provides on-ear at $150 that I can think of is Grado, but I'm personally not a fan of their sound. You might like them, though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: genkidama on Sun, 13 December 2015, 19:20:30
Will definitely look them up, I faintly heard about Audio Technica headphones. :thumb:
The thing for me is, I just don't know much about different other brands other than Bose or Sennheiser or some gaming brands (razer etc.). So I'm hoping to get more suggestions so I can make up my mind than go with another Bose headphones that are quite expensive for me at this point.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Sun, 13 December 2015, 19:37:09
Any else use soundblaster evo headphones? I have the wireless ones but I always use the  3.5mm wire.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: blueangel2323 on Sun, 13 December 2015, 21:51:04
Will definitely look them up, I faintly heard about Audio Technica headphones. :thumb:
The thing for me is, I just don't know much about different other brands other than Bose or Sennheiser or some gaming brands (razer etc.). So I'm hoping to get more suggestions so I can make up my mind than go with another Bose headphones that are quite expensive for me at this point.
Consider the Sennheiser Momentum. There is an on-ear version and two over-ear versions, one wireless and one normal. The on-ear version is cheaper and shouldn't be too much above your price range especially when on sale. Sennheiser also makes the Urbanite which is also an on-ear model. I haven't heard it personally but apparently it sounds even better than the on-ear Momentum.

Philips also makes some very good headphones for the price.

Bose is the undisputed king of noise cancellation, but their non-noise canceling headphones (and speakers) are overpriced for the audio quality you get.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fuzzybaffy on Mon, 14 December 2015, 00:11:31
^ Yes, I thought about the Momentums, too, but I wasn't sure how expensive they were. If you can find them for under $150, definitely pick them up. Sennheiser's "house" sound is my favorite house sound so far (I've tried Fostex, Sony, AKG, Grado, and Sennheiser up to this point).

Quote
The thing for me is, I just don't know much about different other brands other than Bose or Sennheiser or some gaming brands (razer etc.). So I'm hoping to get more suggestions so I can make up my mind than go with another Bose headphones that are quite expensive for me at this point.

Yea, it's a good thing you asked. It's always good to get info before putting your money on the line. And yea, Bose tends to be overpriced for the sound quality you get, and I wouldn't trust any of those gaming brands for good audio, either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: genkidama on Mon, 14 December 2015, 05:32:58
Hey guys, I love you thank you for the suggestions!  :-*

^ Yes, I thought about the Momentums, too, but I wasn't sure how expensive they were. If you can find them for under $150, definitely pick them up. Sennheiser's "house" sound is my favorite house sound so far (I've tried Fostex, Sony, AKG, Grado, and Sennheiser up to this point).

Quote
The thing for me is, I just don't know much about different other brands other than Bose or Sennheiser or some gaming brands (razer etc.). So I'm hoping to get more suggestions so I can make up my mind than go with another Bose headphones that are quite expensive for me at this point.

Yea, it's a good thing you asked. It's always good to get info before putting your money on the line. And yea, Bose tends to be overpriced for the sound quality you get, and I wouldn't trust any of those gaming brands for good audio, either.

I tried the Sennheiser Momentum and they really seem to be created for small heads, they put too much pressure on my head as I tried them for like 5-10 min in a store :( For comparison I wear a size 7 7/8 for new era 59fifty caps or 24 5/8 in inches or 62.5 in cm. So I'm quite big =/
I never heard of the urbanite and will look them up today or tomorrow!

e: I haven't tried them on, but the Urbanite headphones are on sale right now for about 99€ rather than 179€. The 99€ pricetage varies depening on which color I want (black seems to be the cheapest). The wireless version still costs a buffing 230€  :eek:

More
Will definitely look them up, I faintly heard about Audio Technica headphones. :thumb:
The thing for me is, I just don't know much about different other brands other than Bose or Sennheiser or some gaming brands (razer etc.). So I'm hoping to get more suggestions so I can make up my mind than go with another Bose headphones that are quite expensive for me at this point.

Consider the Sennheiser Momentum. There is an on-ear version and two over-ear versions, one wireless and one normal. The on-ear version is cheaper and shouldn't be too much above your price range especially when on sale. Sennheiser also makes the Urbanite which is also an on-ear model. I haven't heard it personally but apparently it sounds even better than the on-ear Momentum.

Philips also makes some very good headphones for the price.

Bose is the undisputed king of noise cancellation, but their non-noise canceling headphones (and speakers) are overpriced for the audio quality you get.

Can you suggest a model of Philips? I have a discount code for Philips (15%) so I can go above my 150€ price range.
I'm not sure about noise canceling headphones and using them while on the move because I'm afraid I wouldn't hear a car honk or tramway/cable car when I accidentally run in front of it or something like that.
Any experience with noise canceling headphones in that regard?

e: I found the Philips Fidelio, is this what you would suggest?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 14 December 2015, 07:18:11
The Philips Fidelio x2 is quite nice!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Mon, 14 December 2015, 07:59:53
Hey there friends, I hope to find some help in search of new headphones for me.

I used the Bose AE from way back (2009/2010) and they served me well until now where they broke completely. It would be best to buy new ones rather repair them as it seems like the cost would be the same.
I'm more of a neutral guy, I listen to a lot of different genres of music so an overall headphone would be best I guess. Correct me if I'm wrong. I mostly listen to music while I'm outside going to work, university, sports etc. So I guess they need to be quite durable and easy to put away if I don't need them anymore. I prefer on-ear headphones than around-ear or in-ears and if they have a build-in microfon will be a plus!
My price range would be 150€ tops. But I'm not totally against a headphone that is a bit above my pricetag if it's worth it.

As I only knew Bose headphones I looked some of the newer models up and I think the Bose SoundLink Bluetooth could be nice as when I'm doing sports the cable doesn't get in my way and other than that I can use the cable or so I thought.

Any suggestions or other infos you guys may need? I'm quite lost at this  :rolleyes:

I would take a look at the V-Moda Crossfade M-80 Vocal. It is on-ear, has a built-in mic in the cable, is spectacularly durable and is $150 USD.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: genkidama on Mon, 14 December 2015, 08:16:57
More
Hey there friends, I hope to find some help in search of new headphones for me.

I used the Bose AE from way back (2009/2010) and they served me well until now where they broke completely. It would be best to buy new ones rather repair them as it seems like the cost would be the same.
I'm more of a neutral guy, I listen to a lot of different genres of music so an overall headphone would be best I guess. Correct me if I'm wrong. I mostly listen to music while I'm outside going to work, university, sports etc. So I guess they need to be quite durable and easy to put away if I don't need them anymore. I prefer on-ear headphones than around-ear or in-ears and if they have a build-in microfon will be a plus!
My price range would be 150€ tops. But I'm not totally against a headphone that is a bit above my pricetag if it's worth it.

As I only knew Bose headphones I looked some of the newer models up and I think the Bose SoundLink Bluetooth could be nice as when I'm doing sports the cable doesn't get in my way and other than that I can use the cable or so I thought.

Any suggestions or other infos you guys may need? I'm quite lost at this  :rolleyes:

I would take a look at the V-Moda Crossfade M-80 Vocal. It is on-ear, has a built-in mic in the cable, is spectacularly durable and is $150 USD.
I will try them on beforehand. I've read that they are quite tight so that there is too much pressure on the head when listening for hours with them. Hopefully they are not as tight as I've read. Here in Germany I can get them for around 150€ as well. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: genkidama on Tue, 15 December 2015, 10:51:29
So I went to the city and tried some of the Sennheiser, AKG and Philips headphones as the other brands were not there. I was kinda torn apart between JBL Synchros 300 and AKG Y 55 headphones, but still the comfort wearing them was not there and they pushed a little while wearing them. After 10mins of listening to various music I kinda felt a tightness around my ears after I put them down.

For old sake I tried the SoundLink Bluetooth headphones from Bose and they are very comfortable while wearing them and sound really good with and without the cable. But unfortunately they are at 200€ :eek: But a very friendly seller in the Bose shop told me about a warranty case where I could send in my old broken headphones and get either a replacement or get new models for a cheaper price and as it is they offered me the SoundLink Bluetooth headphones for around 160€ and I think I'll buy them for that price! Seems like a very good offer for those headphones.  ;D :-*
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: UsualSuspectXXX on Fri, 18 December 2015, 23:54:55
Didn't even realize this was a thread on GH...
Got my K7XX's a few weeks ago. First time with open backs and at I'd prefer to block out a bit more of the ambient nose (it can get pretty loud in my office sometimes) but they are extremely comfortable for extended periods of time.

(http://i.imgur.com/nEPqvix.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Sat, 19 December 2015, 07:14:15
First thing I thought is how the foam pads resemble the HD600.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 19 December 2015, 13:44:17
What kind of differences are there between the various Hifiman 400 versions.. there is the 400, the 400i, and the 400s
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: anarkari on Sun, 20 December 2015, 23:23:13
(http://i.imgur.com/0iizlPW.jpg)
ATH-M50X with Brainwavz velour pads
(http://i.imgur.com/T3awsEe.jpg)
AKG Q701
(http://i.imgur.com/gqrqB9i.jpg)
AKG K7XX
(http://i.imgur.com/rXMZ7Tc.jpg)
Sennheiser HD650

I tend to switch between the HD650s and the K7XX's as the Sennheisers actually hurt my ears (fitment not sound) after a couple of hours.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Sun, 20 December 2015, 23:29:01
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0iizlPW.jpg)

ATH-M50X with Brainwavz velour pads
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/T3awsEe.jpg)

AKG Q701
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/gqrqB9i.jpg)

AKG K7XX
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/rXMZ7Tc.jpg)

Sennheiser HD650

I tend to switch between the HD650s and the K7XX's as the Sennheisers actually hurt my ears (fitment not sound) after a couple of hours.

Nice collection you got there. You should look into maybe adding a beyer in the mix.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: anarkari on Mon, 21 December 2015, 00:21:05
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0iizlPW.jpg)

ATH-M50X with Brainwavz velour pads
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/T3awsEe.jpg)

AKG Q701
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/gqrqB9i.jpg)

AKG K7XX
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/rXMZ7Tc.jpg)

Sennheiser HD650

I tend to switch between the HD650s and the K7XX's as the Sennheisers actually hurt my ears (fitment not sound) after a couple of hours.

Nice collection you got there. You should look into maybe adding a beyer in the mix.

I'm thinking of getting a set of 400i's as they are supposed to go on sale for $299 around christmas.  What kind of sound do the Beyerdynamics have?  I'd like to get some bassy open headphones also.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Mon, 21 December 2015, 00:26:51
Hmm there aren't many bassy open headphones around. The 400i for 299 would be a great deal though. I'm pretty sure the bass on those is not too shabby.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Mon, 21 December 2015, 03:13:46
Looks like I will be picking up the QP1R whenever moon audio receives their shipment..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 21 December 2015, 23:58:40
What kind of differences are there between the various Hifiman 400 versions.. there is the 400, the 400i, and the 400s
IIRC, the HE400 has great bass presence though some have mentioned the issue with sparkly highs.....and perhaps some sibilance issue. I had the HE400i and quite liked it, even preferred it over the HE500. It seemed to have better bass vi-a-vis the HE500 but sounded quite similar other than that. But, with the Gustard H10 + X12 stack, I found the HE500 to have better resolve, and bass seemed comparable to the HE400i (though I still think the HE400i has a slightly better bass, might be my imagination though). As for the HE400S, like the HE400 which I've only read about), it seemed to be a decent can, but with less bass extension compared to the HE400......I find most preferring the HE400i over the HE400S, though again, sound appreciation/preference is so damn subjective.

I have the HE4 and HE500 right now, the HE500 has better resolve compared to the HE4, but the sparkly highs and good bass extension of the HE4 is, in some ways, more enjoyable for certain genres of music. Both are great for gaming though.....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Tue, 22 December 2015, 00:22:22
Just bought some HE-400i's, unsure what DAC/AMP to get for these, any help?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 22 December 2015, 14:06:11
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Wed, 23 December 2015, 03:06:18
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 23 December 2015, 09:23:27
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!

I don't have a dac or an amp setup yet
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: graefeln on Wed, 23 December 2015, 09:30:43
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!

I am sure I will pick up something from Schiit eventually, but for now, I am just using an RSA Hornet with my q701... it works fairly nicely for my needs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 23 December 2015, 18:49:56
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!

I don't have a dac or an amp setup yet

If you're looking I have an O2/ODAC available on the cheap.

AAaaannnnndddd it's gone.  :-X
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Wed, 23 December 2015, 19:19:19
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!

I don't have a dac or an amp setup yet

If you're looking I have an O2/ODAC available on the cheap.

What are we talking? Chuck me a PM with some more details and I might be in!

Condition etc
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: anarkari on Thu, 24 December 2015, 00:33:47
The O2/DAC combo shows up on massdrop about once a month.  I use it for all my headphones and love it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Fri, 25 December 2015, 19:13:41
Considering buying my mom the Audiotechnica ATH-M40X instead of the Sony MDR-V6/7506 I was originally planning. Anyone have experience with the two? I keep hearing the M40x is the better headphone, but not sure how well it would hold up to her diet of classic rock and country.

Also wondering if this headphone would need an amp to shine, because if it does, I'll probably just get the 7506. Those drive really well without one. Otherwise, Amazon.com is selling both for 80 bucks right now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: gain on Fri, 25 December 2015, 22:56:10
I currently alternate between a pair of Denon AH-D5000's and a pair of Beyerdynamic T90's, I run both through a CEntrance DACMini CX with the 1ohm mod.

I really enjoy the sound of the T90's through the Dacmini, I used to run them without the amp, and the difference was pretty eye-opening. Truth be told I'm satisfied to a point where I'm not particularly interested in upgrading any time soon.. I wouldn't even know which direction to go from here on out

Quote
Also wondering if this headphone would need an amp to shine, because if it does, I'll probably just get the 7506. Those drive really well without one. Otherwise, Amazon.com is selling both for 80 bucks right now.

Honestly mate I doubt an amp will do much for those cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Sat, 26 December 2015, 19:12:28
I currently alternate between a pair of Denon AH-D5000's and a pair of Beyerdynamic T90's, I run both through a CEntrance DACMini CX with the 1ohm mod.

I really enjoy the sound of the T90's through the Dacmini, I used to run them without the amp, and the difference was pretty eye-opening. Truth be told I'm satisfied to a point where I'm not particularly interested in upgrading any time soon.. I wouldn't even know which direction to go from here on out

Quote
Also wondering if this headphone would need an amp to shine, because if it does, I'll probably just get the 7506. Those drive really well without one. Otherwise, Amazon.com is selling both for 80 bucks right now.

Honestly mate I doubt an amp will do much for those cans.

There's quite a bit you can do to upgrade a desktop setup but trust me, stop while you're ahead if you value your wallet :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: deductivemonkee on Sat, 26 December 2015, 19:41:20
Got me some sennheiser hd 518 headphones for Xmas, couldn't be happier. They sound great, coming from **** earbuds.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eksuen on Sun, 27 December 2015, 04:29:13
Considering buying my mom the Audiotechnica ATH-M40X instead of the Sony MDR-V6/7506 I was originally planning. Anyone have experience with the two? I keep hearing the M40x is the better headphone, but not sure how well it would hold up to her diet of classic rock and country.

Also wondering if this headphone would need an amp to shine, because if it does, I'll probably just get the 7506. Those drive really well without one. Otherwise, Amazon.com is selling both for 80 bucks right now.

I've only had experience with the M40x (I use them mostly as my travel cans) so I can't compare them to the MDR-V6. I would say the M40x is ever so slightly on the bass-heavy part of the spectrum, but would probably hold up pretty well for both of those genres. And at 35 ohms, they're perfectly fine when used with a phone or other portable device.

If a closed-back design and over-ear pads are not must-have features, I think the Grado SR60e (also $80) might be worth consideration for those genres too as they are bright, engaging, and fun. Not everyone likes the Grado sound, though, so I would recommend trying them in a store first if possible.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 27 December 2015, 19:05:59
Need to try some thX00's and ABX them because from what I read I might like them more than th600s :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: shinigamiyuk on Sun, 27 December 2015, 19:12:13
I've only really ever use in ear monitors until I bought my Audio-technica ATH-M50x recently. I like them if I need to just listing or watch some netflix for more than a few hours and want something incredibly comfortable to wear. Most over the ear headphones give me a headache the the pressure on my ears and head just drive me nuts until I found the M50x.

My other pair of headphones that I have had for about 3 years now are the JH Audio JH5 PRO CUSTOM IN-EAR MONITOR. I had to go to an audiologist and they filled me ear with this putty type stuff to get an exact mold and then I sent it off to the IEM manufacturer to make my custom ear pieces. They are a dual drive armature that just sound supreme and can be turn to a much lower volume than most headphones and still get really rich tones. I absolutely love them and will probably buy another pair son but next time going for three drivers or more.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: trizkut on Mon, 28 December 2015, 20:09:13
Questyle QP1R

(http://i.imgur.com/0bFNNmY.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/OwQkz12.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/LJvOQb6.jpg)


The one thing I'm worried about is the scroll wheel, which I've heard can be a little problematic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Tue, 29 December 2015, 06:08:51
The O2/DAC combo shows up on massdrop about once a month.  I use it for all my headphones and love it.

Yap, just got mine though it was just the dac. shipping in february \o/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: KoalaKaiser on Wed, 30 December 2015, 13:46:36
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!


A Woo Audio WA6! It's my pride and joy, also doubles as a zombie weapon.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 30 December 2015, 18:18:26
What's everyone using to drive their cans?!
A Woo Audio WA6! It's my pride and joy, also doubles as a zombie weapon.

Really been wanting to try one of these with my T1.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Wed, 30 December 2015, 19:35:03
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!


A Woo Audio WA6! It's my pride and joy, also doubles as a zombie weapon.

Nice!  I have the WA7 fireflies for my cans and I love it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Wed, 30 December 2015, 20:21:23
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!


A Woo Audio WA6! It's my pride and joy, also doubles as a zombie weapon.

Nice!  I have the WA7 fireflies for my cans and I love it.

Do you guys have any solid states to compare it to? Do you feel that the tubes colour the sound much?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eat_the_food on Thu, 31 December 2015, 17:21:04
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 31 December 2015, 20:28:00
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


Nice duo. What AMP/DAC you using? That's a nice looking cable but i found the viablue splitter to be too chunky and caught on my desk quite often.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eat_the_food on Thu, 31 December 2015, 20:32:32
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


Nice duo. What AMP/DAC you using? That's a nice looking cable but i found the viablue splitter to be too chunky and caught on my desk quite often.

Running from a Gustard X12/H10 stack. I know EXACTLY what you mean regarding the Viablue splitter. I think I might pus some heat shrink around it or something to eat some of the sharpness when it inevitably hits the front of my desk :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 31 December 2015, 20:39:16
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


Nice duo. What AMP/DAC you using? That's a nice looking cable but i found the viablue splitter to be too chunky and caught on my desk quite often.

Running from a Gustard X12/H10 stack. I know EXACTLY what you mean regarding the Viablue splitter. I think I might pus some heat shrink around it or something to eat some of the sharpness when it inevitably hits the front of my desk :/

Mmm very nice setup. LCD's always sound nice out of Sabre chips. You going for the trinity and looking into a HD800?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Thu, 31 December 2015, 20:43:50
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


This isn't headphone related but is that monitor the Acer Predator x34? If so, how are you liking it? I've been thinking of grabbing one of those myself. :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eat_the_food on Thu, 31 December 2015, 20:46:42
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


Nice duo. What AMP/DAC you using? That's a nice looking cable but i found the viablue splitter to be too chunky and caught on my desk quite often.

Running from a Gustard X12/H10 stack. I know EXACTLY what you mean regarding the Viablue splitter. I think I might pus some heat shrink around it or something to eat some of the sharpness when it inevitably hits the front of my desk :/

Mmm very nice setup. LCD's always sound nice out of Sabre chips. You going for the trinity and looking into a HD800?

Thanks! HD800 is next of the list for sure - hoping the price will drop a bit in the coming months. I'm thinking that something other than a Sabre will sound better with HD800's though. Recommend any decently priced pairings?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eat_the_food on Thu, 31 December 2015, 20:51:33
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


This isn't headphone related but is that monitor the Acer Predator x34? If so, how are you liking it? I've been thinking of grabbing one of those myself. :thumb:

Correct, x34. Liking it lots. Previous monitor was Rog swift so I was a little worried that it could be a big step down from 144hz to 100hz bit I'm finding that it really isn't as big a deal as I thought it would be. Plus ultrawide. Was never a huge on multi monitors personally so this is just about perfect for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Thu, 31 December 2015, 20:55:19
I've currently got mine paired with the hdvd800 but I can't say how well that will pair with your other headphones. I found it to be a little thin with my lcd2 so I usually have that hooked up to my WA7. HD800 are notorious for pairing poorly with many DACs definitely do some research first.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Thu, 31 December 2015, 22:31:36
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


This isn't headphone related but is that monitor the Acer Predator x34? If so, how are you liking it? I've been thinking of grabbing one of those myself. :thumb:

Correct, x34. Liking it lots. Previous monitor was Rog swift so I was a little worried that it could be a big step down from 144hz to 100hz bit I'm finding that it really isn't as big a deal as I thought it would be. Plus ultrawide. Was never a huge on multi monitors personally so this is just about perfect for me.

Ah thank you very much for the response. I'm debating either the Predator x34 or the LG 34UM95C. The LG isn't curved and does not have g-sync but the price is so much more desirable than what current Predator x34's are going for on amazon. I'm sadly limited to amazon since I received a significant amount of gift cards from Christmas
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eat_the_food on Thu, 31 December 2015, 23:37:53
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


This isn't headphone related but is that monitor the Acer Predator x34? If so, how are you liking it? I've been thinking of grabbing one of those myself. :thumb:

Correct, x34. Liking it lots. Previous monitor was Rog swift so I was a little worried that it could be a big step down from 144hz to 100hz bit I'm finding that it really isn't as big a deal as I thought it would be. Plus ultrawide. Was never a huge on multi monitors personally so this is just about perfect for me.

Ah thank you very much for the response. I'm debating either the Predator x34 or the LG 34UM95C. The LG isn't curved and does not have g-sync but the price is so much more desirable than what current Predator x34's are going for on amazon. I'm sadly limited to amazon since I received a significant amount of gift cards from Christmas

Hey, no problem. They're both good monitors for different reasons. If you have trouble making up your mind don't hesitate shoot me a note and ask as many questions as you like. The amazon price is moronic right now because it isn't in stock anywhere right now except the "private" sellers. Once they get inventory back in it should likely drop to 1k-1.2k range again.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tribade on Sat, 02 January 2016, 00:31:25
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!


A Woo Audio WA6! It's my pride and joy, also doubles as a zombie weapon.

Nice!  I have the WA7 fireflies for my cans and I love it.

Do you guys have any solid states to compare it to? Do you feel that the tubes colour the sound much?

I don't have a solid state amp to compare it to unfortunately.  I'm running a Grado GS1000 on it so I don't think I'm one for the objective camp as is.  I like my sound a little bit colored for the most part.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 02 January 2016, 03:23:15
Do I really want to drop 950 on noble 5c?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sat, 02 January 2016, 03:27:30
Do I really want to drop 950 on noble 5c?

I know I do. :( Keep in mind that you just missed out on a pretty good black friday sale.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 02 January 2016, 03:43:28
Do I really want to drop 950 on noble 5c?

I know I do. :( Keep in mind that you just missed out on a pretty good black friday sale.

**** U KIDDING

UGH

I might like 4c better. I tried the 5 universal and I like flat a lot more than bass tuned. flat is life
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 02 January 2016, 05:42:25
when did noble raise their prices on the 3 and 4c? used to be 450 and 650. I might go for 1964ears v6-s... good reviews and what I'm looking for. if I go noble I'd blow a quarter the money on reprinting a wizard design and selecting one is so stressful!

now if only their site will load...

hmm but this talk of sibilance worries me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vegs on Sat, 02 January 2016, 06:15:46
Opinions on the Fidelio X2 if I already own AKG Q701 and Audio Technica ATHM50? I seriously cannot stand the band on the Q701, so I might even sell it.

It's on sale with 33% off at the moment.

I'm using the Monoprice DAC/AMP.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 02 January 2016, 09:11:01
Snagged myself a Sony Z5 Premium to be used as my main phone, relegated my LG G Pro 2 to secondary use with my spare SIM card. Since the Song Z5P is capable of High Res music playback (including native DSD), I'll used it as a DAP as well. I've heard many a great things about Noble Audio Savant and an opportunity presented itself today for me to snag a used one at a pretty decent price, needless to say, I jumped at the chance and I don't regret this impulse buy. It is a very clean and clear sounding IEM that I'll be spending more time with...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpsnpnwb3v0.jpg)
Yes, I like Celine Dion..... :-[
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Sat, 02 January 2016, 09:29:55
My Philips Fidelio x2's broke and when I contacted Philips to find out about the warranty they said they don't have any others in stock so they are refunding me for them.. I liked the x2s, but I'm considering putting a little more money down and getting some HE 400i instead.

That's what I've got coming in the mail at the moment, not sure about the Fiio E10k to drive them though, might be a bit on the low end.


What's everyone using to drive their cans?!


A Woo Audio WA6! It's my pride and joy, also doubles as a zombie weapon.

Nice!  I have the WA7 fireflies for my cans and I love it.

Do you guys have any solid states to compare it to? Do you feel that the tubes colour the sound much?

I don't have a solid state amp to compare it to unfortunately.  I'm running a Grado GS1000 on it so I don't think I'm one for the objective camp as is.  I like my sound a little bit colored for the most part.

true, to each his own.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eat_the_food on Sat, 02 January 2016, 11:14:48
Opinions on the Fidelio X2 if I already own AKG Q701 and Audio Technica ATHM50? I seriously cannot stand the band on the Q701, so I might even sell it.

It's on sale with 33% off at the moment.

I'm using the Monoprice DAC/AMP.

X2's are great for the price but keep in mind they're having a unusually large number of quality control issues at the moment. Things like glue left on the pads, parts not fully screwed down such. The general consensus seems to be that QC faltered with the Phillips division being bought by Gibson.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vegs on Sat, 02 January 2016, 14:33:20
Opinions on the Fidelio X2 if I already own AKG Q701 and Audio Technica ATHM50? I seriously cannot stand the band on the Q701, so I might even sell it.

It's on sale with 33% off at the moment.

I'm using the Monoprice DAC/AMP.

X2's are great for the price but keep in mind they're having a unusually large number of quality control issues at the moment. Things like glue left on the pads, parts not fully screwed down such. The general consensus seems to be that QC faltered with the Phillips division being bought by Gibson.
Thanks for the heads up. I think I'll give it a shot.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 02 January 2016, 21:27:46
Got in touch with Brannan today, thinking about getting this reprinted but with blue GID dots.

(http://nobleaudio.com/image/2/1000/750/5/media/uploads/lookbook/wada-shota-5-1-copy.jpg)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Vittra on Sat, 02 January 2016, 21:40:19
On topic - Using HD598 + NuPrime uDSD. Good enough for my purposes. Ended up getting a HD598 SE as backup since it was on sale recently in Canada. The most comfortable headphones I've used thus far, which is the most important thing for me.

Had Grado SR235I's previously but they were not at all comfortable. Never ended up doing the Sennheiser 414 pad mod, just sold them with the unmodded pads  :)).

Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


This isn't headphone related but is that monitor the Acer Predator x34? If so, how are you liking it? I've been thinking of grabbing one of those myself. :thumb:

Correct, x34. Liking it lots. Previous monitor was Rog swift so I was a little worried that it could be a big step down from 144hz to 100hz bit I'm finding that it really isn't as big a deal as I thought it would be. Plus ultrawide. Was never a huge on multi monitors personally so this is just about perfect for me.

Ah thank you very much for the response. I'm debating either the Predator x34 or the LG 34UM95C. The LG isn't curved and does not have g-sync but the price is so much more desirable than what current Predator x34's are going for on amazon. I'm sadly limited to amazon since I received a significant amount of gift cards from Christmas

Hey, no problem. They're both good monitors for different reasons. If you have trouble making up your mind don't hesitate shoot me a note and ask as many questions as you like. The amazon price is moronic right now because it isn't in stock anywhere right now except the "private" sellers. Once they get inventory back in it should likely drop to 1k-1.2k range again.

I would strongly recommend you wait for the Asus PG348Q. I'm fairly certain they delayed it to work out some of the kinks Acer has experienced with the X34 launch, but the competition and availability fo the two should bring some more reasonable pricing.

Personally, I'm happy to have finally got a decent panel in my XB271HU (XB1) after dealing with a poor PG279Q, XB270HU, and FG2421 in the past... I think I'll wait for HDR/OLED stuff now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 04 January 2016, 16:09:52
HE-400i were $299 on amazon last night, I get to the bank this morning to deposit the money for them and go back home to find them back at $475   :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Mon, 04 January 2016, 16:25:37
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


This isn't headphone related but is that monitor the Acer Predator x34? If so, how are you liking it? I've been thinking of grabbing one of those myself. :thumb:

Correct, x34. Liking it lots. Previous monitor was Rog swift so I was a little worried that it could be a big step down from 144hz to 100hz bit I'm finding that it really isn't as big a deal as I thought it would be. Plus ultrawide. Was never a huge on multi monitors personally so this is just about perfect for me.

Ah thank you very much for the response. I'm debating either the Predator x34 or the LG 34UM95C. The LG isn't curved and does not have g-sync but the price is so much more desirable than what current Predator x34's are going for on amazon. I'm sadly limited to amazon since I received a significant amount of gift cards from Christmas

Hey, no problem. They're both good monitors for different reasons. If you have trouble making up your mind don't hesitate shoot me a note and ask as many questions as you like. The amazon price is moronic right now because it isn't in stock anywhere right now except the "private" sellers. Once they get inventory back in it should likely drop to 1k-1.2k range again.

I would strongly recommend you wait for the Asus PG348Q. I'm fairly certain they delayed it to work out some of the kinks Acer has experienced with the X34 launch, but the competition and availability fo the two should bring some more reasonable pricing.

Personally, I'm happy to have finally got a decent panel in my XB271HU (XB1) after dealing with a poor PG279Q, XB270HU, and FG2421 in the past... I think I'll wait for HDR/OLED stuff now.

Thanks for the info but I'm not really interested in a 27" monitor, I am currently using a 27" 1440p and for a single monitor use I'd like to have it bigger.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eat_the_food on Mon, 04 January 2016, 18:16:08
HE-400i were $299 on amazon last night, I get to the bank this morning to deposit the money for them and go back home to find them back at $475   :'(

Ouch! 299 is a pretty stellar deal for 400i's
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Mon, 04 January 2016, 18:22:27
HE-400i were $299 on amazon last night, I get to the bank this morning to deposit the money for them and go back home to find them back at $475   :'(

Ouch! 299 is a pretty stellar deal for 400i's

I saw they were on sale for that price for a week or so during the holidays but I passed on it myself, 20/20 hindsight. :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 04 January 2016, 18:34:35
I just had to wait til the bank opened today so I could deposit the refund check I got from Gibson for my Philip Fidelio x2s.. maybe they will go back on sale :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 04 January 2016, 18:35:40
I'm going to bank tomorrow for big purchase too... woo audio!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Mon, 04 January 2016, 18:37:54
I'm going to bank tomorrow for big purchase too... woo audio!

Very nice, which one did you decide on?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 04 January 2016, 18:39:00
I'm going to bank tomorrow for big purchase too... woo audio!

Very nice, which one did you decide on?

ah damn I just realized I phrased this like I was getting something from WA. I meant woo as in like yay :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Mon, 04 January 2016, 18:40:56
I'm going to bank tomorrow for big purchase too... woo audio!

Very nice, which one did you decide on?

ah damn I just realized I phrased this like I was getting something from WA. I meant woo as in like yay :D

Haha either way getting new audio equipment is always fun and exciting. :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 04 January 2016, 19:10:13
getting those new Fostex?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Tue, 05 January 2016, 10:47:54
getting those new Fostex?

I want 'em

too lazy to sell th-900, though
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Tue, 05 January 2016, 11:01:01
getting those new Fostex?

I want 'em

too lazy to sell th-900, though

bruh me too
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: epzy on Tue, 05 January 2016, 11:03:30
getting those new Fostex?

I want 'em

too lazy to sell th-900, though

bruh me too

th-600 for you, lil bish
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Tue, 05 January 2016, 11:18:38
shots fired :o
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Tue, 05 January 2016, 11:41:51
I wish I had the TH-900 to compare to but I'm really enjoying these TH-X00s. It seems next run Massdrop will come out with different wood ear cup covers and fix a few things, the only thing I hate is the cable so I will most like mod mine when I get the chance.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Tue, 05 January 2016, 11:52:36
getting those new Fostex?

I want 'em

too lazy to sell th-900, though

bruh me too

th-600 for you, lil bish

but flat is life thus thx00 is the best. throw some lawton pads on it
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SunTanScanMan on Fri, 08 January 2016, 02:04:34
Hi all, new member here. Currently a happy camper with the set up below.

Current headphones:
- audio-technica ATH-W5000
- Sennheiser HD 650
- AKG K550

Sold:
-  beyerdynamic T1
- audio-technica ATH-W1000X
- audio-technica ATH-AD700X (gifted to family member)

Amp: Meier Corda Classic
DAC: Meier Corda Daccord

Music: Mostly classical - string quartets, and other chamber music.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Fri, 08 January 2016, 03:17:39
He=400i's came today! I'm so excited, gotta say though I was overall not very impressed with how loosely it all looked chucked together in the box, it almost looks like someone ruffled through it, which is why it took so long to come in the mail the first place, seller sent from China, didn't pass customs and they had to send it again :s

I can see how people talk about QC as well if this is how it comes stock in the box!

Looking forward to pairing it up in an hour or so with the O2/ODAC!

Like this is what it looked like when I opened the lid

(https://i.imgur.com/3gOov9C.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 08 January 2016, 07:49:53
Went with an impulse buy today, I was looking for a replacement/spare cable for my Noble Audio Savant when I stumbled on some Campfire Audio IEM's. Tried the Jupiter and well, I was wowed by the sounds, great clarity, nice bass, forward mids and it has a pretty good soundstage. Had to scratch that itch and now, I'm feel a fair bit poorer....
A pic of the box in which the Jupiter came in....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpswknvelzj.jpg)
The leather case with its woolly interior.....and the Campfire Audio Jupiter. It's made from CNC machined aluminium...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpsiya1csff.jpg)
The other content of the box, a variety of tips, a cleaning brush and an ALO tinsel cable with a 2.5mm plug....I suppose I'd have to get a 2.5mm to 3.5mm adapter if I want to use it.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/4_zpsyeonyind.jpg)
A shot of the IEM, love its simple industrial looks........and the sound!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/5_zpshq8k5ck5.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Fri, 08 January 2016, 07:58:48
Went with an impulse buy today, I was looking for a replacement/spare cable for my Noble Audio Savant when I stumbled on some Campfire Audio IEM's. Tried the Jupiter and well, I was wowed by the sounds, great clarity, nice bass, forward mids and it has a pretty good soundstage. Had to scratch that itch and now, I'm feel a fair bit poorer....
A pic of the box in which the Jupiter came in....
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/1_zpswknvelzj.jpg)

The leather case with its woolly interior.....and the Campfire Audio Jupiter. It's made from CNC machined aluminium...
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpsiya1csff.jpg)

The other content of the box, a variety of tips, a cleaning brush and an ALO tinsel cable with a 2.5mm plug....I suppose I'd have to get a 2.5mm to 3.5mm adapter if I want to use it.
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/4_zpsyeonyind.jpg)

A shot of the IEM, love its simple industrial looks........and the sound!
Show Image
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/5_zpshq8k5ck5.jpg)


That case is awesome, these look really interesting.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Fri, 08 January 2016, 08:26:53
He=400i's came today! I'm so excited, gotta say though I was overall not very impressed with how loosely it all looked chucked together in the box, it almost looks like someone ruffled through it, which is why it took so long to come in the mail the first place, seller sent from China, didn't pass customs and they had to send it again :s

I can see how people talk about QC as well if this is how it comes stock in the box!

Looking forward to pairing it up in an hour or so with the O2/ODAC!

Like this is what it looked like when I opened the lid

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3gOov9C.jpg)



Congrats on the HE-400i's, hope you enjoy 'em.

And dank shoes, buddy!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 08 January 2016, 10:04:21
He=400i's came today! I'm so excited, gotta say though I was overall not very impressed with how loosely it all looked chucked together in the box, it almost looks like someone ruffled through it, which is why it took so long to come in the mail the first place, seller sent from China, didn't pass customs and they had to send it again :s

I can see how people talk about QC as well if this is how it comes stock in the box!

Looking forward to pairing it up in an hour or so with the O2/ODAC!

Like this is what it looked like when I opened the lid

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3gOov9C.jpg)


Someone did go through that box.

Anyway I've been waiting for this all week!

If you have a windows OS please hit me up.  There is a great OS level visual EQ that can help you tune the sound to be even more flat or more to your liking.  I've done tons of tweaks when the mood struck me and the HFM planars can push out boosted frequencies without saturating.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 08 January 2016, 14:25:03
All the price gouging on the TH-X00 =(

finally got the CD for Tales of Weaver - Exceed by Vanilla Mood!

Unfortunately the jewel case was cracked on the front =(

Also my kind of new phone bricked.
Then my new phone bricked.

And my new HDD is DOA...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bromono on Fri, 08 January 2016, 14:27:13
All the price gouging on the TH-X00 =(

finally got the CD for Tales of Weaver - Exceed by Vanilla Mood!

Unfortunately the jewel case was cracked on the front =(

Also my kind of new phone bricked.
Then my new phone bricked.

And my new HDD is DOA...

It sounds like you need technology therapy
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 08 January 2016, 14:30:29
All the price gouging on the TH-X00 =(

finally got the CD for Tales of Weaver - Exceed by Vanilla Mood!

Unfortunately the jewel case was cracked on the front =(

Also my kind of new phone bricked.
Then my new phone bricked.

And my new HDD is DOA...

It sounds like you need technology therapy

Everything around me comes out defective =(
Except my GoN keyboard and AKG K551 apparently  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Fri, 08 January 2016, 16:01:52
Just ordered some HE400is.. just how much am I going to be needing an amp to go with these? I don't have one currently
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: OfTheWild on Fri, 08 January 2016, 16:03:22
Wow, i guess i need to step it up a bit! I spend most of my 8 hours at work with some V-Moda M-100's on my head. I like them for portability but I could use something a bit more comfortable that maybe breathes better?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Fri, 08 January 2016, 18:38:45
He=400i's came today! I'm so excited, gotta say though I was overall not very impressed with how loosely it all looked chucked together in the box, it almost looks like someone ruffled through it, which is why it took so long to come in the mail the first place, seller sent from China, didn't pass customs and they had to send it again :s

I can see how people talk about QC as well if this is how it comes stock in the box!

Looking forward to pairing it up in an hour or so with the O2/ODAC!

Like this is what it looked like when I opened the lid

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3gOov9C.jpg)


Someone did go through that box.

Anyway I've been waiting for this all week!

If you have a windows OS please hit me up.  There is a great OS level visual EQ that can help you tune the sound to be even more flat or more to your liking.  I've done tons of tweaks when the mood struck me and the HFM planars can push out boosted frequencies without saturating.
Yeah awesome, I am running Windows!

Let me know
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: aznairjordan on Fri, 08 January 2016, 19:20:23
Just ordered some HE400is.. just how much am I going to be needing an amp to go with these? I don't have one currently

try it without an amp, and if it isn't loud enough for you then invest in one  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SploogeFactory on Fri, 08 January 2016, 19:31:18
He=400i's came today! I'm so excited, gotta say though I was overall not very impressed with how loosely it all looked chucked together in the box, it almost looks like someone ruffled through it, which is why it took so long to come in the mail the first place, seller sent from China, didn't pass customs and they had to send it again :s

I can see how people talk about QC as well if this is how it comes stock in the box!

Looking forward to pairing it up in an hour or so with the O2/ODAC!

Like this is what it looked like when I opened the lid

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/3gOov9C.jpg)



Congrats on the HE-400i's, hope you enjoy 'em.

And dank shoes, buddy!

Ahh, thanks man, didn't see this!

Listened to them all last night until about 1:30, bought a fair bit of FLAC electronic music, glitch hop etc from some small producers I'd known and it really seems to shine with that kind of music.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 08 January 2016, 21:10:34
Just ordered some HE400is.. just how much am I going to be needing an amp to go with these? I don't have one currently

try it without an amp, and if it isn't loud enough for you then invest in one  :thumb:
Great and sensible advice! Get an amp only IF onboard audio doesn't get loud enough. :thumb: Don't just get an amp just be because......
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Sun, 10 January 2016, 13:03:30
So.. the girlfriend took the TH-X00 to work. I don't know if I will ever see them again  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Sun, 10 January 2016, 13:37:13
So.. the girlfriend took the TH-X00 to work. I don't know if I will ever see them again  :))

RIP, say your goodbyes now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 10 January 2016, 14:32:18
So.. the girlfriend took the TH-X00 to work. I don't know if I will ever see them again  :))

I'd be mad
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Vittra on Mon, 11 January 2016, 15:33:42
Sometimes I feel like it's a neck gains day, sometimes I don't.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/5qJicme.jpg)


This isn't headphone related but is that monitor the Acer Predator x34? If so, how are you liking it? I've been thinking of grabbing one of those myself. :thumb:

Correct, x34. Liking it lots. Previous monitor was Rog swift so I was a little worried that it could be a big step down from 144hz to 100hz bit I'm finding that it really isn't as big a deal as I thought it would be. Plus ultrawide. Was never a huge on multi monitors personally so this is just about perfect for me.

Ah thank you very much for the response. I'm debating either the Predator x34 or the LG 34UM95C. The LG isn't curved and does not have g-sync but the price is so much more desirable than what current Predator x34's are going for on amazon. I'm sadly limited to amazon since I received a significant amount of gift cards from Christmas

Hey, no problem. They're both good monitors for different reasons. If you have trouble making up your mind don't hesitate shoot me a note and ask as many questions as you like. The amazon price is moronic right now because it isn't in stock anywhere right now except the "private" sellers. Once they get inventory back in it should likely drop to 1k-1.2k range again.

I would strongly recommend you wait for the Asus PG348Q. I'm fairly certain they delayed it to work out some of the kinks Acer has experienced with the X34 launch, but the competition and availability fo the two should bring some more reasonable pricing.

Personally, I'm happy to have finally got a decent panel in my XB271HU (XB1) after dealing with a poor PG279Q, XB270HU, and FG2421 in the past... I think I'll wait for HDR/OLED stuff now.

Thanks for the info but I'm not really interested in a 27" monitor, I am currently using a 27" 1440p and for a single monitor use I'd like to have it bigger.
PG348Q is 34", 21:9, 3440x1440,  Gsync, 100hz (with Gsync module), so the same as the Acer X34.

Personally, I find 2560x1440 @ 27" the sweet spot for PPI. Coupled with 144hz/165hz and Gsync, this is the best gaming experience I've had since using a CRT. The 4K 30" 120hz monitor Dell recently announced sounds interesting, but I'm not expecting variable refresh rate technology in it, and it's $5K USD anyway. Might be Thunderbolt 3 only as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Mon, 11 January 2016, 21:14:24
PG348Q is 34", 21:9, 3440x1440,  Gsync, 100hz (with Gsync module), so the same as the Acer X34.

Personally, I find 2560x1440 @ 27" the sweet spot for PPI. Coupled with 144hz/165hz and Gsync, this is the best gaming experience I've had since using a CRT. The 4K 30" 120hz monitor Dell recently announced sounds interesting, but I'm not expecting variable refresh rate technology in it, and it's $5K USD anyway. Might be Thunderbolt 3 only as well.

+1

I have an Acer XB270HU and the gaming experience is simply fantastic. Smoothness of motion is unparalleled in any IPS panel I've seen. Colors are very accurate when calibrated so I use mine for editing photos as well. Probably the best display I've seen yet. However, the PG348Q has my attention. Don't know if I'll be getting one though since I love my XB270HU and I just preordered the Oculus.

I made a slow-motion comparison video between my XB270HU and an ASUS PB278Q:
More
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GwenAlli on Tue, 12 January 2016, 00:41:08
A few months ago I got my first pair of "audiophile" headphones, Audio-Technica's ATH-AD700X. I have to say, these things are AMAZING  ;D  Everything is so nice sounding and it's really easy to tell where the sounds are coming from. The only thing that is kinda weird is you can hear your environment very well, which can be a positive or negative I suppose. Anyways, I am totally new to the headphone sceen but I have to reccomend these headphone especially if they are still on sale for $99 on Amazon.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 12 January 2016, 19:27:42
A few months ago I got my first pair of "audiophile" headphones, Audio-Technica's ATH-AD700X. I have to say, these things are AMAZING  ;D  Everything is so nice sounding and it's really easy to tell where the sounds are coming from. The only thing that is kinda weird is you can hear your environment very well, which can be a positive or negative I suppose. Anyways, I am totally new to the headphone sceen but I have to reccomend these headphone especially if they are still on sale for $99 on Amazon.
I have it too, awesome entry level audiophile can for sure. :thumb: You can hear the environment well because it's an open (back) can, open back cans tend to allow exterior noise to leak in. I have more than 10 cans, all (with the exception of one) are open cans. I have but one close back can in the Alpha Dog, which is why I'm in the market for a good close back one.......the Beyerdynamic DT1770 Pro is a prime candidate for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 18 January 2016, 10:45:14
ok guys I did it. Appointment for audiologist Monday and Noble 4C reprint ordered.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rotwitt on Mon, 18 January 2016, 15:14:40
My daily driver is currently a set of KEF M500s:

(http://www.kef.com/uploads/images/en/m/case_duo.jpg)

Really solid choice if you're looking for a set of neutral and portable headphones, if you ask me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Tue, 19 January 2016, 19:19:51
Borrowing some TH-X00 from a local! Can't wait to get home !!!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Tue, 26 January 2016, 12:01:29
Just picked up a Violectric V200. I haven't had much time with it yet but I'm enjoying it so far.

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1650/24001655824_efb503778f_h.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Tue, 26 January 2016, 12:35:45
TH-X00's are on Massdrop again! I definitely recommend getting a pair. :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Tue, 26 January 2016, 13:01:40
Kinda wanting a new pair of closed headphones.  Dunno if I want to get another pair of fostex, try the hd630vb or grab something else doe...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Tue, 26 January 2016, 16:47:15
Just picked up a Violectric V200. I haven't had much time with it yet but I'm enjoying it so far.

Show Image
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1650/24001655824_efb503778f_h.jpg)


Hey I'm new to audiophile equipment. I also have the Lyr tube tube amp.
Can you explain the setup, what cables do you use and where is the audio source. Does it go?
PC -->Bitfrost DAC --> Lyr tube amp --> V200?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Tue, 26 January 2016, 20:31:36
Hey I'm new to audiophile equipment. I also have the Lyr tube tube amp.
Can you explain the setup, what cables do you use and where is the audio source. Does it go?
PC -->Bitfrost DAC --> Lyr tube amp --> V200?

I'm actually using the Lyr as a preamp for my speakers at the moment.

PC --> [TOSLINK] --> Bifrost --> [RCA to XLR] --> V200 --> Lyr --> SAE 2200 (power amp) --> KEF Q300 speakers

I have the jumpers in my V200 set so the RCA jacks on the back are just an unamped passthrough. I can actually plug headphones into either the V200 or the Lyr or both. My SAE 2200 power amp is connected via the Lyr's preamp outs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: venyv on Wed, 27 January 2016, 08:39:39
I have been using the Master and Dynamic MH40 headphones. Love these things they are just a little on the heavy side. (http://i883.photobucket.com/albums/ac38/rjventrone/EDFE435D-9C2A-4E94-85CE-AE09D6CA394E.jpg) (http://s883.photobucket.com/user/rjventrone/media/EDFE435D-9C2A-4E94-85CE-AE09D6CA394E.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dan002 on Wed, 27 January 2016, 09:06:14
Quote
I'm actually using the Lyr as a preamp for my speakers at the moment.

PC --> [TOSLINK] --> Bifrost --> [RCA to XLR] --> V200 --> Lyr --> SAE 2200 (power amp) --> KEF Q300 speakers

I have the jumpers in my V200 set so the RCA jacks on the back are just an unamped passthrough. I can actually plug headphones into either the V200 or the Lyr or both. My SAE 2200 power amp is connected via the Lyr's preamp outs.
Thanks! What is your main audio player? I use iTunes and their M4A stuff now. Although, in the past I used foobar for everything.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 27 January 2016, 10:15:13
Bought an Ikea side table thingy to place under my desk, I then put my OPPO HA-1 on it, you can see on the left side of my desk below where my headphones are (just to the right of my MrSpeakers Alpha Dog). Oh yeah, also bought a 29" AOC Ultra Wide monitor a short while ago....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpsmgvwx3ov.jpg)

Scoured the local tech and audio forum sale threads for a good replacement cable for my recently acquired CampFire Jupiter, found an ALO SXC 24 MMCX/3.5 cable going for just about half the retail price of a new one, so I snagged it.....now I have one for my Jupiter and one for my Fitear Parterre.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/2_zpsfjdtwic4.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 27 January 2016, 11:56:03
Quote
I'm actually using the Lyr as a preamp for my speakers at the moment.

PC --> [TOSLINK] --> Bifrost --> [RCA to XLR] --> V200 --> Lyr --> SAE 2200 (power amp) --> KEF Q300 speakers

I have the jumpers in my V200 set so the RCA jacks on the back are just an unamped passthrough. I can actually plug headphones into either the V200 or the Lyr or both. My SAE 2200 power amp is connected via the Lyr's preamp outs.
Thanks! What is your main audio player? I use iTunes and their M4A stuff now. Although, in the past I used foobar for everything.

I use Foobar. I have quite a bit of M4A as well (much better codec than MP3) but I just use Foobar for everything.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Wed, 27 January 2016, 18:46:29
Quote
I'm actually using the Lyr as a preamp for my speakers at the moment.

PC --> [TOSLINK] --> Bifrost --> [RCA to XLR] --> V200 --> Lyr --> SAE 2200 (power amp) --> KEF Q300 speakers

I have the jumpers in my V200 set so the RCA jacks on the back are just an unamped passthrough. I can actually plug headphones into either the V200 or the Lyr or both. My SAE 2200 power amp is connected via the Lyr's preamp outs.
Thanks! What is your main audio player? I use iTunes and their M4A stuff now. Although, in the past I used foobar for everything.

I use Foobar. I have quite a bit of M4A as well (much better codec than MP3) but I just use Foobar for everything.

Winamp here.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iLLucionist on Thu, 28 January 2016, 14:54:46
Beyerdynamic.. best I've come across so far at this pricepoint.

Sounds as clean, crisp, and defined as my monitors (Yamaha ES-5). Also sounds great on my digital piano (Kawai CN-35).

(http://i.imgur.com/eSBNolY.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 28 January 2016, 23:06:14
Just picked up a pair of RBH HP-2's. Best pair of headphones I've picked for under $200's!!!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Thu, 28 January 2016, 23:12:56
Just picked up a pair of RBH HP-2's. Best pair of headphones I've picked for under $200's!!!

 :blank:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 28 January 2016, 23:18:51
impressions sent off to Noble :X
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 28 January 2016, 23:40:26
Just picked up a pair of RBH HP-2's. Best pair of headphones I've picked for under $200's!!!

 :blank:

They are incredibly comfortable and the cleanest sounding headphones I've ever heard. Surpass the AKG K702's I owned and they are easier to drive as well. I've owned other RBH products before and haven't met a product of theirs that hasn't impressed me. Using some of their old Desination Audio speakers for my computer set up now.

http://www.audioholics.com/headphone-reviews/rbh-sound-hp-1b-wireless-and-hp-2-reference-headphones-preview
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xJudas on Fri, 29 January 2016, 14:34:05
Beyerdynamic.. best I've come across so far at this pricepoint.

Sounds as clean, crisp, and defined as my monitors (Yamaha ES-5). Also sounds great on my digital piano (Kawai CN-35).

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/eSBNolY.jpg)


I run a Scarlet 2i2 as well, really nice little unit. Has outlasted my Firebox and Fast Track Pro

(http://i.imgur.com/WpYC3Wb.jpg)


Also, you can see a pair of my brand new ATH-M50s. Had to get a new pair to replace my beat ones.

(http://i.imgur.com/v3EUQOl.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iLLucionist on Fri, 29 January 2016, 15:25:29
Beyerdynamic.. best I've come across so far at this pricepoint.

Sounds as clean, crisp, and defined as my monitors (Yamaha ES-5). Also sounds great on my digital piano (Kawai CN-35).

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/eSBNolY.jpg)


I run a Scarlet 2i2 as well, really nice little unit. Has outlasted my Firebox and Fast Track Pro

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/WpYC3Wb.jpg)



Also, you can see a pair of my brand new ATH-M50s. Had to get a new pair to replace my beat ones.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/v3EUQOl.jpg)


Nice setup you got there! I've used those ATH's as well.. they sound really nice.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 29 January 2016, 15:33:04
My favorite :D

(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:09:51
My favorite :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)


It's just a shame fostex haven't caught onto the detachable cable trend yet
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:10:41
My favorite :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)


It's just a shame fostex haven't caught onto the detachable cable trend yet

I know...planning on doing a mod for myself one of these times. I forget whom it was but I looked up a company for the job and it was going to be $200+ lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:12:40
My favorite :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)


It's just a shame fostex haven't caught onto the detachable cable trend yet

I know...planning on doing a mod for myself one of these times. I forget whom it was but I looked up a company for the job and it was going to be $200+ lol.
You must be thinking of Lawton audio. They are extremely overpriced but can't complain in terms of quality.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:13:45
My favorite :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)


It's just a shame fostex haven't caught onto the detachable cable trend yet

I know...planning on doing a mod for myself one of these times. I forget whom it was but I looked up a company for the job and it was going to be $200+ lol.
You must be thinking of Lawton audio. They are extremely overpriced but can't complain in terms of quality.

Ah yes that was it, Lawton...damn you for your prices haha
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:15:31
My favorite :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)


It's just a shame fostex haven't caught onto the detachable cable trend yet

I know...planning on doing a mod for myself one of these times. I forget whom it was but I looked up a company for the job and it was going to be $200+ lol.
You must be thinking of Lawton audio. They are extremely overpriced but can't complain in terms of quality.

Ah yes that was it, Lawton...damn you for your prices haha
Haha yeh I was tempted at one stage then realised how stupid I would have been to fork out that much cash for a removable cable upgrade.

Anyways enjoy the X00's. I heard they are fantastic out of the box anyways.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:19:14
My favorite :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)


It's just a shame fostex haven't caught onto the detachable cable trend yet

I know...planning on doing a mod for myself one of these times. I forget whom it was but I looked up a company for the job and it was going to be $200+ lol.
You must be thinking of Lawton audio. They are extremely overpriced but can't complain in terms of quality.

Ah yes that was it, Lawton...damn you for your prices haha
Haha yeh I was tempted at one stage then realised how stupid I would have been to fork out that much cash for a removable cable upgrade.

Anyways enjoy the X00's. I heard they are fantastic out of the box anyways.

Thanks I really love them! It has a very wide sound stage and amazing bass. I'm currently using a centrance DAC and o2 amp so I think I need to step my game up with the equipment.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:23:44
My favorite :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)


It's just a shame fostex haven't caught onto the detachable cable trend yet

I know...planning on doing a mod for myself one of these times. I forget whom it was but I looked up a company for the job and it was going to be $200+ lol.
You must be thinking of Lawton audio. They are extremely overpriced but can't complain in terms of quality.

Ah yes that was it, Lawton...damn you for your prices haha
Haha yeh I was tempted at one stage then realised how stupid I would have been to fork out that much cash for a removable cable upgrade.

Anyways enjoy the X00's. I heard they are fantastic out of the box anyways.

Thanks I really love them! It has a very wide sound stage and amazing bass. I'm currently using a centrance DAC and o2 amp so I think I need to step my game up with the equipment.
It's depends how deep you want to go down that rabbit hole lol. Your amp and dac aren't bad at all so what you'll get back in return for a LOT of money would be quite minimal.

If you lived in Australia I would lend you my WA7 to try out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:29:19
More
My favorite :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/4mpYE6U.jpg)


It's just a shame fostex haven't caught onto the detachable cable trend yet

I know...planning on doing a mod for myself one of these times. I forget whom it was but I looked up a company for the job and it was going to be $200+ lol.
You must be thinking of Lawton audio. They are extremely overpriced but can't complain in terms of quality.

Ah yes that was it, Lawton...damn you for your prices haha
Haha yeh I was tempted at one stage then realised how stupid I would have been to fork out that much cash for a removable cable upgrade.

Anyways enjoy the X00's. I heard they are fantastic out of the box anyways.


Thanks I really love them! It has a very wide sound stage and amazing bass. I'm currently using a centrance DAC and o2 amp so I think I need to step my game up with the equipment.
It's depends how deep you want to go down that rabbit hole lol. Your amp and dac aren't bad at all so what you'll get back in return for a LOT of money would be quite minimal.

If you lived in Australia I would lend you my WA7 to try out.

Yeah I know there's a good bit of diminishing return once you start spending more money. I'm pretty comfortable with what I would but would love a better combo like a schiit stack or an all in one to avoid some cables haha.

I appreciate the generosity, shipping that brick that would costly and dangerous. :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:34:07
It's actually 2 bricks because I have the matching tube power supply haha.

Have a look on headfi classifieds. You'll most likely get the best bang for buck buying from the used market. Perhaps a 2nd hand Burson conductor for that smooth sabre sound =) Hit me up if you need a second opinion before you buy
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:36:58
It's actually 2 bricks because I have the matching tube power supply haha.

Have a look on headfi classifieds. You'll most likely get the best bang for buck buying from the used market. Perhaps a 2nd hand Burson conductor for that smooth sabre sound =) Hit me up if you need a second opinion before you buy

Sounds good, thank you very much for the advice and help. :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Fri, 29 January 2016, 19:41:09
It's actually 2 bricks because I have the matching tube power supply haha.

Have a look on headfi classifieds. You'll most likely get the best bang for buck buying from the used market. Perhaps a 2nd hand Burson conductor for that smooth sabre sound =) Hit me up if you need a second opinion before you buy

Sounds good, thank you very much for the advice and help. :thumb:
Any time bro!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Sat, 30 January 2016, 09:17:33
I don't mind the cable at all. Detachable would be nice for stowing purposes, but honestly, the headphones are used exclusively on my desk 99% of the time, so not that big a deal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: toxicdrift on Sat, 30 January 2016, 09:23:12
the fostex th900 mk2 have Detachable cables.  :thumb:

here is my current setup 

HD25 Aluminiums + DacMagic XS v2

[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 07:54:23
I have Nobles coming in a few months and TH-600 already why do I want -X00's T_T
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sth on Mon, 01 February 2016, 08:14:41
the fostex th900 mk2 have Detachable cables.  :thumb:

here is my current setup 

HD25 Aluminiums + DacMagic XS v2

(Attachment Link)

do you REALLY need an amp for hd25s? i have the alus as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 09:17:00
I have Nobles coming in a few months and TH-600 already why do I want -X00's T_T

because they are sexy
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 09:29:15
I have Nobles coming in a few months and TH-600 already why do I want -X00's T_T

because they are sexy

not really they seem hit or miss.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 09:33:04
I have Nobles coming in a few months and TH-600 already why do I want -X00's T_T

because they are sexy

not really they seem hit or miss.

They look nice tho

Are you just curious to see what they sound like, or do you want them for comparison purposes, or do you just want them cause you want them?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: toxicdrift on Mon, 01 February 2016, 09:38:55
do you REALLY need an amp for hd25s? i have the alus as well.

no its not really needed, but it helps,  its not a day / night difference but to me the bass has more impact and sounds overall fuller / cleaner 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 09:39:26
I have Nobles coming in a few months and TH-600 already why do I want -X00's T_T

because they are sexy

not really they seem hit or miss.

They look nice tho

Are you just curious to see what they sound like, or do you want them for comparison purposes, or do you just want them cause you want them?

I want to compare a variety of things between them and th600. I've read a lot but I need to hear it with my own ears :P

And that's what I was referring to, their looks are hit/miss because of all the variances in the mahogany.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 09:42:57

I want to compare a variety of things between them and th600. I've read a lot but I need to hear it with my own ears :P

And that's what I was referring to, their looks are hit/miss because of all the variances in the mahogany.

If you just want to compare - maybe we can arrange a little borrowing session (you're in Canada, right?). I would also benefit from your findings should I ever look at another pair of headphones.

And you can tell me what you think of my grain  ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 09:48:24

I want to compare a variety of things between them and th600. I've read a lot but I need to hear it with my own ears :P

And that's what I was referring to, their looks are hit/miss because of all the variances in the mahogany.

If you just want to compare - maybe we can arrange a little borrowing session (you're in Canada, right?). I would also benefit from your findings should I ever look at another pair of headphones.

And you can tell me what you think of my grain  ;)

Yeah where you at? I'll think about it.

I'll probably hang on to my th600 regardless but if I end up liking x00 more (which I've heard people suggest not to bother "downgrading") I might consider finding a pair... I plan to lawton mod the 600s regardless.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 09:50:54

I want to compare a variety of things between them and th600. I've read a lot but I need to hear it with my own ears :P

And that's what I was referring to, their looks are hit/miss because of all the variances in the mahogany.

If you just want to compare - maybe we can arrange a little borrowing session (you're in Canada, right?). I would also benefit from your findings should I ever look at another pair of headphones.

And you can tell me what you think of my grain  ;)

Yeah where you at? I'll think about it.

I'll probably hang on to my th600 regardless but if I end up liking x00 more (which I've heard people suggest not to bother "downgrading") I might consider finding a pair... I plan to lawton mod the 600s regardless.

I'm in New Brunswick. I'd love to have someone more experienced with this stuff have a listen and tell me their thoughts on the headphones.

Let me know, maybe we can swap cans for clacks for a few weeks.  :))

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: asdfjkl36 on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:09:24
Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:10:56
Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)

topre of headphones? Beats by Dre
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Vittra on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:12:31
Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)

topre of headphones? Beats by Dre

WOW
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mobbo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:15:18
Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)

topre of headphones? Beats by Dre

a slap in the face in so many ways
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: asdfjkl36 on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:18:28

Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)

topre of headphones? Beats by Dre

I'm pretty stupid, but not that stupid

I already have Beats


Haha, nah. I would rather listen to music from my phone speakers then use Beats.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: logomachy on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:23:06
Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)

STAX

an almost perfect analogue.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iLLucionist on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:31:23
Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)

STAX

an almost perfect analogue.

I do occasional audio editing, my father worked in studios and taught me some basics:
1. the quality and interpretation of the sound will always remain subjective. what you think is the absolute best to your ears may be complete garbage in the opinion of somebody else
2. compile a list of favorite tracks, go to a store where they have the high-ends on display and listen to all of them.

I also play the piano and I know how an acoustic piano should sound like. So what I did is, I went to the studio and played an acoustic kawaii concert grand so that I know how it should sound. Then I went on to the kawaii cn-35 with multiple headphones and tried them all out till I found the one that most closely matched how the sampled kawaii cn-35 sounded to the acoustic one in that same room.

What I look for in high-end cans is clean, clear sound. It should not be bassy, not be light. But it should reflect how it was mixed. If the original production is mastered with bass, you should hear bass. So another thing I do is, I know that some genres / producers put more / less bass in their productions and use a wider or narrower stereo image. So I took some of my tracks and verified that this headphone sounded like I know these artists are known to produce (their unique sound).

This all led me to my beyerdynamic. But again, it is all subjective, so it may sound horrible to your ears.

EDIT: High-end phones that are used in the studio at least are not made to provide you with the "sickest bass that will make your head explode" but they are made to be studio monitors on your head. That is, to provide you with an accurate depiction of how a production was intended to sound. For instance, vocals are often edited to lay ON TOP of a band or the rest of the track. So when somebody starts to sing, you hear the rest a bit reduced and the vocal easily stands out. For instance, listen to Norah Jones. You should be able to hear this distinction on high end cans, but not on cheaper ones because they lack the clarity and detail.

So that's my 50 cents :-)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:36:15
Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)
Sennheiser Orpheus 2 (http://www.wired.com/2015/11/sennheiser-orpheus) I guess but they're not an option I assume.
It all depends on the money you're willing to spend.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: asdfjkl36 on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:40:48

Alright guys

What are he topre of headphones.

I want to skip the nonsense and get some quality cans that I would have ended up with either way.

I don't know much about headphones or any audiophile stuff but I'll be reading the rest of this thread to learn :)

STAX

an almost perfect analogue.

I do occasional audio editing, my father worked in studios and taught me some basics:
1. the quality and interpretation of the sound will always remain subjective. what you think is the absolute best to your ears may be complete garbage in the opinion of somebody else
2. compile a list of favorite tracks, go to a store where they have the high-ends on display and listen to all of them.

I also play the piano and I know how an acoustic piano should sound like. So what I did is, I went to the studio and played an acoustic kawaii concert grand so that I know how it should sound. Then I went on to the kawaii cn-35 with multiple headphones and tried them all out till I found the one that most closely matched how the sampled kawaii cn-35 sounded to the acoustic one in that same room.

What I look for in high-end cans is clean, clear sound. It should not be bassy, not be light. But it should reflect how it was mixed. If the original production is mastered with bass, you should hear bass. So another thing I do is, I know that some genres / producers put more / less bass in their productions and use a wider or narrower stereo image. So I took some of my tracks and verified that this headphone sounded like I know these artists are known to produce (their unique sound).

This all led me to my beyerdynamic. But again, it is all subjective, so it may sound horrible to your ears.

EDIT: High-end phones that are used in the studio at least are not made to provide you with the "sickest bass that will make your head explode" but they are made to be studio monitors on your head. That is, to provide you with an accurate depiction of how a production was intended to sound. For instance, vocals are often edited to lay ON TOP of a band or the rest of the track. So when somebody starts to sing, you hear the rest a bit reduced and the vocal easily stands out. For instance, listen to Norah Jones. You should be able to hear this distinction on high end cans, but not on cheaper ones because they lack the clarity and detail.

So that's my 50 cents :-)

Yea, I get what you're saying. I like a clean sound, but I wouldn't know what sounds best until I try a bunch out to compare.
I'll have to find a shop and try some out.

I live in the ghetto so no place around here is gonna have them out for people to try out

Thanks :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 01 February 2016, 11:41:52
the fostex th900 mk2 have Detachable cables.  :thumb:

here is my current setup 

HD25 Aluminiums + DacMagic XS v2

(Attachment Link)

do you REALLY need an amp for hd25s? i have the alus as well.
I have the 600Ohm version and nope, even that doesn't need an extra amp at all, although there's some improvement in bass, if you're in a quiet environment.

However, that's a DAC in the picture, and I have no idea, if macbooks have decent on-board audio.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Mon, 01 February 2016, 19:24:35
the fostex th900 mk2 have Detachable cables.  :thumb:

here is my current setup 

HD25 Aluminiums + DacMagic XS v2

(Attachment Link)

do you REALLY need an amp for hd25s? i have the alus as well.
I have the 600Ohm version and nope, even that doesn't need an extra amp at all, although there's some improvement in bass, if you're in a quiet environment.

However, that's a DAC in the picture, and I have no idea, if macbooks have decent on-board audio.

600ohm straight out of the source? You cray bro haha
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Protato_Tubby on Wed, 03 February 2016, 16:50:14
So, I picked up some Grado SR325e. I love them, but perhaps I'd love them more if they were a bit more comfortable. Does anyone know of any good ways to get the cans off your ears a bit more? That seems to be the main problem for me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 03 February 2016, 17:44:04
Beyerdynamic never sounded natural to me...

However it always depends on the source.
Probably didn't help that I had a fiio at the time.

Tried the new mcintosh headphones made by beyerdynamic and that sounded great but cost more than the stax setup.

I too would go with stax as the topre of headphones.

It's a different beast (like topre is completely separate from MX). Very different compared to the competitors.

Alps / Matias is like planars. You have the old ones that were made by lots of different brands, some good and some bad, in the past, with new ones being developed with the same design and technology.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iLLucionist on Thu, 04 February 2016, 07:39:19
Beyerdynamic never sounded natural to me...

However it always depends on the source.
Probably didn't help that I had a fiio at the time.

Tried the new mcintosh headphones made by beyerdynamic and that sounded great but cost more than the stax setup.

I too would go with stax as the topre of headphones.

It's a different beast (like topre is completely separate from MX). Very different compared to the competitors.

Alps / Matias is like planars. You have the old ones that were made by lots of different brands, some good and some bad, in the past, with new ones being developed with the same design and technology.

Could you try to explain how stax is different from (my) beyerdynamic? Always interested to try out new stuff.. I'll play mine either via my digital piano (CN-35), which is not ideal because the Ohm of the piano and the headphone is not really on par, and through my Focusrite 2i2 and that sounds awesome to my ears. Also when mixing in Logic or when using Reason.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Thu, 04 February 2016, 09:33:21
Could you try to explain how stax is different from (my) beyerdynamic? Always interested to try out new stuff.. I'll play mine either via my digital piano (CN-35), which is not ideal because the Ohm of the piano and the headphone is not really on par, and through my Focusrite 2i2 and that sounds awesome to my ears. Also when mixing in Logic or when using Reason.

STAX headphones are electrostatic, so you'll be needing an amplifier capable of driving electrostatic headphones. STAX make their own, Woo Audio also makes them. And like the headphones themselves, they are not exactly cheap.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iLLucionist on Thu, 04 February 2016, 09:42:01
Could you try to explain how stax is different from (my) beyerdynamic? Always interested to try out new stuff.. I'll play mine either via my digital piano (CN-35), which is not ideal because the Ohm of the piano and the headphone is not really on par, and through my Focusrite 2i2 and that sounds awesome to my ears. Also when mixing in Logic or when using Reason.

STAX headphones are electrostatic, so you'll be needing an amplifier capable of driving electrostatic headphones. STAX make their own, Woo Audio also makes them. And like the headphones themselves, they are not exactly cheap.

Thanks! Time to find out what electrostatic means.. Never heard of it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 04 February 2016, 20:32:46
So, I picked up some Grado SR325e. I love them, but perhaps I'd love them more if they were a bit more comfortable. Does anyone know of any good ways to get the cans off your ears a bit more? That seems to be the main problem for me.
So, I picked up some Grado SR325e. I love them, but perhaps I'd love them more if they were a bit more comfortable. Does anyone know of any good ways to get the cans off your ears a bit more? That seems to be the main problem for me.

I think you can get a pair of G Cush pads from Grado *or a clone from Zonk) here:
http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=grado+g+cush&tag=mh0b-20&index=aps&hvadid=859578565&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_6gyqaba823_e

Or, you can check out eBay....

Head over to the HeadFi and check out the SR325e thread there. I kinda recall some recommending the G Cush for better comfort......but do ensure the G Cush pads fit the SR325e first as I may be mistaken. I have the PS1000 and GS1000i and while I like the former, I absolutely love the latter. The bass on it is......sublime.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: hullo8d on Thu, 04 February 2016, 20:44:31
i currently had a pair of sennheiser 650hd that i got pretty cheap (250 shipped brand new) which i'm powering with my valhalla 2. my current audio output is coming from a xonar dx in the mean time, but i plan on upgrading to a bifrost just so i can complete the stack. just waiting on the dosh

i also have westone w30's that i use on the go. westone was nice enough to upgrade me from the w3 iems i had originally got when the wire started wearing down at the jack. bought those for like 180 too, so it was an amazing upgrade.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 05 February 2016, 07:56:18
The 4 pin XLR balance cable that I'd ordered for my HD800 came earlier than expected......
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/2_zpsmyjmkyyq.jpg)

I'm now chilling in front of my monitor, surfing the net and listening to great music with my HD800->4 pin XLR->Oppo HA-1
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/1_zpsoow4aey2.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: [Lewynlight] on Fri, 05 February 2016, 08:04:43
hi. first time posting here, are earphones considered okay?  :-[

(http://i.imgur.com/W7JR5rP.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 05 February 2016, 08:10:36
hi. first time posting here, are earphones considered okay?  :-[

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/W7JR5rP.jpg?1)

Sure, audio related stuff including IEM's are welcome! Especially so if it's a Fitear! :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: [Lewynlight] on Fri, 05 February 2016, 08:22:18
hi. first time posting here, are earphones considered okay?  :-[

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/W7JR5rP.jpg?1)

Sure, audio related stuff including IEM's are welcome! Especially so if it's a Fitear! :))

hahaha, thanks! she's my pride and joy. because of commuting reasons i'm posponing my desktop setup until graduation (which is 6 months away!)

how are you liking those HD800's?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 05 February 2016, 08:56:52
hahaha, thanks! she's my pride and joy. because of commuting reasons i'm posponing my desktop setup until graduation (which is 6 months away!)

how are you liking those HD800's?
Love 'em! Funny thing about the HD800's, I've noticed that some (like me) love it, but sold it after a while.....then, we begin to miss it, and somehow, one way or another, we'd find a way to buy one again. One that I've got mine back again, ain't no way I'd ever think of selling it........evah! ;D Mine's an earlier model, serial number <10k, it's supposed to be treble hot, but I don't find it so. In fact, I enjoy the sparkly treble.....perhaps I'm a closet treblehead who's coming out now. :p

Anyway, I've bought a good number of cans, and have also worked on beefing up my portable gear.....guess it's time to stop with ALL my audio purchases.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/4_zps6hxxqljr.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Vittra on Fri, 05 February 2016, 08:59:20
So, I picked up some Grado SR325e. I love them, but perhaps I'd love them more if they were a bit more comfortable. Does anyone know of any good ways to get the cans off your ears a bit more? That seems to be the main problem for me.

http://www.head-fi.org/a/grado-pad-choices-and-mods
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: [Lewynlight] on Fri, 05 February 2016, 09:15:38
hahaha, thanks! she's my pride and joy. because of commuting reasons i'm posponing my desktop setup until graduation (which is 6 months away!)

how are you liking those HD800's?
Love 'em! Funny thing about the HD800's, I've noticed that some (like me) love it, but sold it after a while.....then, we begin to miss it, and somehow, one way or another, we'd find a way to buy one again. One that I've got mine back again, ain't no way I'd ever think of selling it........evah! ;D Mine's an earlier model, serial number <10k, it's supposed to be treble hot, but I don't find it so. In fact, I enjoy the sparkly treble.....perhaps I'm a closet treblehead who's coming out now. :p

Anyway, I've bought a good number of cans, and have also worked on beefing up my portable gear.....guess it's time to stop with ALL my audio purchases.
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/4_zps6hxxqljr.jpg)


hahaha. i agree with you. HD800 are quite unique, but feed it with a right amp and you're set.
 same with you, i'm considering 800 or 800s gonna be my target for my desktop setup later. have been in this hobby way too long, before i brought my first mechanical keyboard. i want to finish it as soon as possible  :-X

holy hell, am i seeing parterre, k10, and ie800? and what model of aurisonics is that? harmony? looks like you're spending a bit too much :p

believe it or not, i'm driving my fitear with my phone. still lurking for a perfect that that didn't make my wallet empty...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 05 February 2016, 09:45:10
hahaha. i agree with you. HD800 are quite unique, but feed it with a right amp and you're set.
 same with you, i'm considering 800 or 800s gonna be my target for my desktop setup later. have been in this hobby way too long, before i brought my first mechanical keyboard. i want to finish it as soon as possible  :-X

holy hell, am i seeing parterre, k10, and ie800? and what model of aurisonics is that? harmony? looks like you're spending a bit too much :p

believe it or not, i'm driving my fitear with my phone. still lurking for a perfect that that didn't make my wallet empty...
Yeah, once you own a HD800 and you happen to sell it, you're gonna miss its soundstage and sparkle. This guy sold me the HD800, then missed it and offered to trade his Grado PS1000 for the HD800. He then traded the HD800 for my Audeze 2.2 nF with sold cash top-up on my side (didn't quite like its sig sound, nice thick bass and pretty decent treble, but just doesn't suit me....besides, Audeze cans are heavy as hell!), he then sold off the Audeze and guess what, he'd finally gotten a HD800 (again) and has sworn NOT to sell or trade it off.

My portable gear are as follow:
Fiio X3 2nd Gen + JDS Labs C5 portable amp, Sony Xperia Z5 Premium (can play various audio formats including DSD64)
Fitear Parterre, Noble Audio Savant, Sennheiser IE800
Aurisonics ASG1+, Camp Fire Audio Jupiter (by ALO)

I'm strictly a UIEM user, no CIEM stuff for me as I lack the patience to wait for the reshelling, oh yeah, take a look at Onkyo DP-X1.
http://www.amazon.com/hi-res-source-corresponding-Digital-DP-X1/dp/B017EIHB0C/ref=sr_1_1/192-9388090-7557900?ie=UTF8&qid=1454686919&sr=8-1&keywords=onkyo+dp-x1
It's not exactly cheap, but way more reasonable than A&K DAP's. Heard good things about it, especially when it run in balance mode......that's when it shines (or so from what I'd gathered).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Fri, 05 February 2016, 10:00:11
The guy who sold me his 007 to buy himself a 009 ended up finding an amp and HD800 setup that he liked more than the 009 + BHSE (pretty sure he ended up getting the BHSE)

The HD800 is very amp dependent though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 05 February 2016, 12:57:46
I'm pretty sure the hd800 plus lyr I had for a while contributed heavily to the light bit of tinnitus I still have two years later.  Plus I hate sparkly treble.  Admittedly, I don't think there's anything with quite the level of soundstage that the hd800 has either.  I've been thinking about dipping my toe back into the game with a nice pair of closed headphones, but the x2 are so good for my use now, I'm not sure I want to get into anything else.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xtrafrood on Fri, 05 February 2016, 14:10:54
I need a headset that can handle a wide range of genres. In the near future I'll be upgrading my AKG K240s, any (semi-open) recommendations? 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 05 February 2016, 14:51:09
the fostex th900 mk2 have Detachable cables.  :thumb:

here is my current setup 

HD25 Aluminiums + DacMagic XS v2

(Attachment Link)

do you REALLY need an amp for hd25s? i have the alus as well.
I have the 600Ohm version and nope, even that doesn't need an extra amp at all, although there's some improvement in bass, if you're in a quiet environment.

However, that's a DAC in the picture, and I have no idea, if macbooks have decent on-board audio.

600ohm straight out of the source? You cray bro haha
Ever heard of sensitivity? Probably not.

I need a headset that can handle a wide range of genres. In the near future I'll be upgrading my AKG K240s, any (semi-open) recommendations? 
What kind of K240? Modern, Monitor, DF,...?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xtrafrood on Fri, 05 February 2016, 15:01:56
the fostex th900 mk2 have Detachable cables.  :thumb:

here is my current setup 

HD25 Aluminiums + DacMagic XS v2

(Attachment Link)

do you REALLY need an amp for hd25s? i have the alus as well.
I have the 600Ohm version and nope, even that doesn't need an extra amp at all, although there's some improvement in bass, if you're in a quiet environment.

However, that's a DAC in the picture, and I have no idea, if macbooks have decent on-board audio.

600ohm straight out of the source? You cray bro haha
Ever heard of sensitivity? Probably not.

I need a headset that can handle a wide range of genres. In the near future I'll be upgrading my AKG K240s, any (semi-open) recommendations? 
What kind of K240? Modern, Monitor, DF,...?
Shoot sorry, I forgot to specify. They're the modern version of the entry level monitor model.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Fri, 05 February 2016, 15:38:51
I need a headset that can handle a wide range of genres. In the near future I'll be upgrading my AKG K240s, any (semi-open) recommendations?

I like the fidelio x2 for a good jack of all trades headphone.  If you want planars, the he400s is solid, too.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Fri, 05 February 2016, 15:58:39
I think the philips fidelio x2s are the most comfortable headphone I've ever worn as well as being a great sounding set of headphones
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xtrafrood on Fri, 05 February 2016, 16:17:03
I need a headset that can handle a wide range of genres. In the near future I'll be upgrading my AKG K240s, any (semi-open) recommendations?

I like the fidelio x2 for a good jack of all trades headphone.  If you want planars, the he400s is solid, too.

I think the philips fidelio x2s are the most comfortable headphone I've ever worn as well as being a great sounding set of headphones

I love the look of them, they remind me of the Grados I had a few years ago. I'll definitely have a look at the spec sheets
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: [Lewynlight] on Sat, 06 February 2016, 10:55:32
hahaha. i agree with you. HD800 are quite unique, but feed it with a right amp and you're set.
 same with you, i'm considering 800 or 800s gonna be my target for my desktop setup later. have been in this hobby way too long, before i brought my first mechanical keyboard. i want to finish it as soon as possible  :-X

holy hell, am i seeing parterre, k10, and ie800? and what model of aurisonics is that? harmony? looks like you're spending a bit too much :p

believe it or not, i'm driving my fitear with my phone. still lurking for a perfect that that didn't make my wallet empty...
Yeah, once you own a HD800 and you happen to sell it, you're gonna miss its soundstage and sparkle. This guy sold me the HD800, then missed it and offered to trade his Grado PS1000 for the HD800. He then traded the HD800 for my Audeze 2.2 nF with sold cash top-up on my side (didn't quite like its sig sound, nice thick bass and pretty decent treble, but just doesn't suit me....besides, Audeze cans are heavy as hell!), he then sold off the Audeze and guess what, he'd finally gotten a HD800 (again) and has sworn NOT to sell or trade it off.

My portable gear are as follow:
Fiio X3 2nd Gen + JDS Labs C5 portable amp, Sony Xperia Z5 Premium (can play various audio formats including DSD64)
Fitear Parterre, Noble Audio Savant, Sennheiser IE800
Aurisonics ASG1+, Camp Fire Audio Jupiter (by ALO)

I'm strictly a UIEM user, no CIEM stuff for me as I lack the patience to wait for the reshelling, oh yeah, take a look at Onkyo DP-X1.
http://www.amazon.com/hi-res-source-corresponding-Digital-DP-X1/dp/B017EIHB0C/ref=sr_1_1/192-9388090-7557900?ie=UTF8&qid=1454686919&sr=8-1&keywords=onkyo+dp-x1
It's not exactly cheap, but way more reasonable than A&K DAP's. Heard good things about it, especially when it run in balance mode......that's when it shines (or so from what I'd gathered).
oh wow.. hd800 sure got a lot of love here :p
anyway, nice collection, really. savant are good, good alternative if you didn't want to spend too much for k10. meanwhile i haven't heard that campfire.. how's it?
lol, i guess i'm completely backside from you as i can't stand UIEM simply because it didnt give me enough isolation for my commuting needs.
i already heard that. it's ok, but it's jack is prone to breaking.. there's already 2 person with issue at head-fi, last time i went there..

I need a headset that can handle a wide range of genres. In the near future I'll be upgrading my AKG K240s, any (semi-open) recommendations?

I like the fidelio x2 for a good jack of all trades headphone.  If you want planars, the he400s is solid, too.

yes, fidelio x2 is a good jack of all trades, but be careful. from what i heard there's a lot of fidelio x2 user that become bored quickly with the sound signature and went upgradeitis.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 10 February 2016, 14:21:14
Do I get a nice set of tower speakers....or a really good pair of headphones?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Wed, 10 February 2016, 17:27:18
Do I get a nice set of tower speakers....or a really good pair of headphones?

I would ask what you do more of.

I, personally would go for a sick set of speakers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 10 February 2016, 18:01:52
Do I get a nice set of tower speakers....or a really good pair of headphones?

I would ask what you do more of.

I, personally would go for a sick set of speakers.

I already have a nice pair of headphones I use everyday and my family rarely uses headphones. They would be mostly for them. I just don't know how ready I am to spend $1400 on a pair of towers speakers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Wed, 10 February 2016, 18:31:48
Do I get a nice set of tower speakers....or a really good pair of headphones?

I would ask what you do more of.

I, personally would go for a sick set of speakers.

I already have a nice pair of headphones I use everyday and my family rarely uses headphones. They would be mostly for them. I just don't know how ready I am to spend $1400 on a pair of towers speakers.

That's a lot on speakers  :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 10 February 2016, 21:17:29
Do I get a nice set of tower speakers....or a really good pair of headphones?

I would ask what you do more of.

I, personally would go for a sick set of speakers.

I already have a nice pair of headphones I use everyday and my family rarely uses headphones. They would be mostly for them. I just don't know how ready I am to spend $1400 on a pair of towers speakers.

That's a lot on speakers  :eek:

I agree...and that's at a discount. My dream speakers cost $50k but that ain't ever gonna happen.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Wed, 10 February 2016, 22:53:14
Anyone want to buy my geekpulse dac? Special price of $300 + shipping and fees for geekhackers  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 11 February 2016, 00:17:41
I agree...and that's at a discount. My dream speakers cost $50k but that ain't ever gonna happen.
That would be something like these badboys....with Accuphase pre-power amps, Esoteric CD player, Lumin D1 music streamer
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/2_zpsd9m0uxzz.jpg)
Of course, having a pair of speakers like these means you gotta get great cables to commensurate with their awesomeness (the bottom part of each speaker unit is actually a separate active subwoofer unit.....you can see it clearly in the pic below)
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/1_zpsvedcnsid.jpg)

These belong to a bud of mine, a friend of some 30 years now.....I didn't know he'd gotten the speakers a few years back, when I heard that he has them, I went over to his place to spend an afternoon with them. We listen to FLAC, WAV and DSD tracks, I ain't a fan of Cats Steven, but man, listening to Father and Son on his system made me appreciate that song.....in fact, it's in my playlist on both my portable and desk rigs.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Thu, 11 February 2016, 00:28:50
Holy ****. Those are enormous.

They look so early 00s. They wouldn't look out of place in a Peugeot 306's trunk  :))

(I'm sure they sound amazing though!)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 11 February 2016, 02:46:48
@PadawanGeek - what brand are those. I like the look but I've had the chance to sit down and listen to these bad boys and there is no turning back.

[attachimg=1]

Thankfully I live close to the manufacturer and I've been into their shop where they make them, tweek them, and show them off.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 11 February 2016, 05:05:03
It's by YG Acoustics, the top model for my friend's speaker system has two additional sub woofers.....but that one's was in the cool >100k mark. http://www.stereophile.com/floorloudspeakers/yg_acoustics_anat_reference_ii_professional_loudspeaker/index.html

My friend's speakers (minus the two passive subs) cost a cool 70k. It's made of aircraft grade aluminum (funny that auto-correct shows 'aluminium' as an error)and looks so damn awesome up close and personal.
http://stereotimes.com/post/yg-acoustics-%E2%80%93-anat-reference-ii-studio-loudspeakers

All I can say is, I now get why my friend is so focused on speakers systems and has largely ignored headphones (he has a Sennheiser BT Momentum)....the music was so......encompassing and so detailed, with layers of soundstage.....and here I am listening to my dinky Focal XS Book.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Thu, 11 February 2016, 15:11:02
It's by YG Acoustics, the top model for my friend's speaker system has two additional sub woofers.....but that one's was in the cool >100k mark. http://www.stereophile.com/floorloudspeakers/yg_acoustics_anat_reference_ii_professional_loudspeaker/index.html

My friend's speakers (minus the two passive subs) cost a cool 70k. It's made of aircraft grade aluminum (funny that auto-correct shows 'aluminium' as an error)and looks so damn awesome up close and personal.
http://stereotimes.com/post/yg-acoustics-%E2%80%93-anat-reference-ii-studio-loudspeakers

All I can say is, I now get why my friend is so focused on speakers systems and has largely ignored headphones (he has a Sennheiser BT Momentum)....the music was so......encompassing and so detailed, with layers of soundstage.....and here I am listening to my dinky Focal XS Book.


room giveth depth, that is for sure.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: skitty on Fri, 12 February 2016, 16:34:11
Can anyone recommend a decent pair of headphones for under $100? I'd like a second pair to passively listen to music while doing work.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xtrafrood on Fri, 12 February 2016, 17:15:53
Can anyone recommend a decent pair of headphones for under $100? I'd like a second pair to passively listen to music while doing work.
Kind of difficult to answer that without knowing what kinds of music you like
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Fri, 12 February 2016, 17:47:00
Can anyone recommend a decent pair of headphones for under $100? I'd like a second pair to passively listen to music while doing work.

Sony MDRV6
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Fri, 12 February 2016, 19:29:03
Can anyone recommend a decent pair of headphones for under $100? I'd like a second pair to passively listen to music while doing work.

Sony MDRV6

I'll agree here. I've owned these for over 3 years and even though I've upgraded they are built well, sound very good for the price, and fit your budget. Plus you can get it for less than $50 if you go with Amazon used options.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: skitty on Fri, 12 February 2016, 19:34:25
Can anyone recommend a decent pair of headphones for under $100? I'd like a second pair to passively listen to music while doing work.
Kind of difficult to answer that without knowing what kinds of music you like

I mostly listen to rock, metal, grunge...
Favorite bands include: Soundgarden, Audioslave, Pearl Jam, Tool.

Can anyone recommend a decent pair of headphones for under $100? I'd like a second pair to passively listen to music while doing work.

Sony MDRV6

I'll agree here. I've owned these for over 3 years and even though I've upgraded they are built well, sound very good for the price, and fit your budget. Plus you can get it for less than $50 if you go with Amazon used options.


This looks like a nice option for that price. Thanks! :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ResonantPixel on Sun, 14 February 2016, 14:42:13
I recently got a pair of V-moda XS's for my birthday, and they are AWESOME! They are such nice sounding! (I did have the luxary that my friend has the same pair so I knew what I was asking for!) Not to mention they are built like tanks. They're a little expensive (I was quite suprised when my parents got them as I thought them a little out of reasonable amount of money but hey! I have been loving this audio ascention.) Next on my list is going to be mechanical keyboard (after waiting 3 years of having no-money!  If only my laptop had not melted! I guess its good in a way as I now have enough to build rather than buy a cm storm!)

Basically V-moda XS are great but a little pricey!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Mon, 15 February 2016, 02:41:40
What is a good option to upgrade fidelio x2? I really really loves this can but I think there are other that are better than fidelio x2
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: toxicdrift on Mon, 15 February 2016, 03:28:42
fostex th-x00 maybe .. sony z7 ... hifiman 400i/s or whatever the new model is. akg k7xx.. hd650 ... or the treble happy hd700
audio technica has some open cans aswell
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 17 February 2016, 09:24:47
What is a good option to upgrade fidelio x2? I really really loves this can but I think there are other that are better than fidelio x2
Open or close? Budget? Usage?

I was feeling bored, so I joined a MD for the NuForce uDAC-3 in red simply because I feel my C2Q rig (in a red NZXT Pahntom case) is kinda lonesome without a matching DAC. I expect to get it sometime in March, meanwhile, to stave off sheer and utter boredom, I bought a nice interconnect t for my Fiio X3 II + JDS Labs C5 stack...
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/5_zpss5rxgutg.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: whmeltonjr on Wed, 17 February 2016, 21:05:43
If I'm looking for my first pair of "real headphones", would these be a good place to start at $150? http://m.ebay.com/itm/Beyerdynamic-DT-990-Premium-32-OHM-Headphones-/291680329089?nav=SEARCH
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xtrafrood on Wed, 17 February 2016, 21:28:16
Why are they half price?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: whmeltonjr on Wed, 17 February 2016, 21:30:57
Why are they half price?

Probably liquidating inventory? Idk. I've bought photo gear from them so I'm not worried about the seller. My concern is is that a good first pair of cans to buy? I have nothing but $20 headphones right now.

EDIT: Wound up buying them. Focus Camera is an authorized dealer as well, so that's good. Hope I made a decent decision.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: toxicdrift on Wed, 17 February 2016, 23:21:49
you will need a good amp to drive the dt990's also some find them a bit metallic sounding.. some really love them, for gaming, movies they are very good.. for music for some genre's they work very well. if you are getting them half price then go for it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: whmeltonjr on Thu, 18 February 2016, 00:05:38
you will need a good amp to drive the dt990's also some find them a bit metallic sounding.. some really love them, for gaming, movies they are very good.. for music for some genre's they work very well. if you are getting them half price then go for it.

These are the 32 ohm, so I don't think I need a good amp. I will invest in one down the road, but the fact that my phone should be able to drive these definitely played a part in me purchasing them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xtrafrood on Thu, 18 February 2016, 00:08:43
you will need a good amp to drive the dt990's also some find them a bit metallic sounding.. some really love them, for gaming, movies they are very good.. for music for some genre's they work very well. if you are getting them half price then go for it.
Metallic sound huh? Those vent things made me wonder if that would be a problem.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xJudas on Thu, 18 February 2016, 00:46:31
I'm trying to figure out a decent pair of IEMs. I mostly listen to death metal or music driven by high gain guitars. Looking for something balanced, not over powered with bass yet full bodied. Most of the reviews I come across are mostly talking about pop or edm type music.

I'm visiting a buddy's this weekend and he can get me Shure SE215s for $49 or Shure SE425s for $150. I'm unsure which one would be better suited for metal. Any ideas? Other suggestions are welcome as well. Just these two I can get a deal on.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: toxicdrift on Thu, 18 February 2016, 01:03:25
you will need a good amp to drive the dt990's also some find them a bit metallic sounding.. some really love them, for gaming, movies they are very good.. for music for some genre's they work very well. if you are getting them half price then go for it.

These are the 32 ohm, so I don't think I need a good amp. I will invest in one down the road, but the fact that my phone should be able to drive these definitely played a part in me purchasing them.


the 32ohm version wont need one, i heard the 600 ohm version which definitely needs an amp.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: fknraiden on Thu, 18 February 2016, 01:05:20
Just got some Astro a50's. Replacing my 8 year old a40's(they still work!)
I dont know much about hardware, but they are the most comfortable headset ever.
You audiophiles are cool. Teach me your ways.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bocahgundul on Fri, 19 February 2016, 01:18:34
fostex th-x00 maybe .. sony z7 ... hifiman 400i/s or whatever the new model is. akg k7xx.. hd650 ... or the treble happy hd700
audio technica has some open cans aswell
nah I don't like too much treble cause I had a grado headphone and end up giving it to my brother cause damn that headphone makes my ear bleed
What is a good option to upgrade fidelio x2? I really really loves this can but I think there are other that are better than fidelio x2
Open or close? Budget? Usage?

I was feeling bored, so I joined a MD for the NuForce uDAC-3 in red simply because I feel my C2Q rig (in a red NZXT Pahntom case) is kinda lonesome without a matching DAC. I expect to get it sometime in March, meanwhile, to stave off sheer and utter boredom, I bought a nice interconnect t for my Fiio X3 II + JDS Labs C5 stack...
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/5_zpss5rxgutg.jpg)

Open only  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 26 February 2016, 08:36:32
Open only  :thumb:
Seriously, the X2 is awesome and punches beyond its price bracket. If you wanna try perhaps something different (not 'better' per se) then perhaps you should give planar mags a try......like the HiFiMan HE400S/400i.

I bought some stuff today, a used pair of Audio Technica ATH-A900X LTD and so liking what I hear. Great treble energy (unlike the regular A900X which is said to be a bit too sparkly), good mids with good vocals, and punchy bass (no way near basshead level). This one's a perfect complement to my Alpha Dog, so I now have one orthodynamic and one dynamic can.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/6_zpsj73ascsz.jpg)
While I was at it, met up with the seller of a nice pair of ESI nEAR 06 speakers, each unit is self powered, and within each, there's a separate power amp for the bass and treble.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/7_zps1ii8immo.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bomble on Fri, 26 February 2016, 17:32:23
I use a pair of audio technica ath-m50x, is it even worth looking into some sort of amp setup?

If so, what's something that's a good entry level that I should check out?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Signature on Fri, 26 February 2016, 17:51:55
I use a pair of audio technica ath-m50x, is it even worth looking into some sort of amp setup?

If so, what's something that's a good entry level that I should check out?
Amp would be a bit overkill but you could invest in a dac.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Fri, 26 February 2016, 18:34:16
I use a pair of audio technica ath-m50x, is it even worth looking into some sort of amp setup?

If so, what's something that's a good entry level that I should check out?
I can recommend the FiiO E10k (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2).
The sound from it is significantly better than the on-board audio I was using before (it's worth noting that it was a 5+ year old fairly inexpensive mobo).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Fri, 26 February 2016, 20:08:26
Anyone ever heard the Concero HP? Pretty neat amp/dac with a tiny foot print.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Sat, 27 February 2016, 03:49:54
I have an Astell & Kern Ak240 on the way. Can't wait to hear how it sounds when paired with my UERMs :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bomble on Sat, 27 February 2016, 22:13:02
I use a pair of audio technica ath-m50x, is it even worth looking into some sort of amp setup?

If so, what's something that's a good entry level that I should check out?
I can recommend the FiiO E10k (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2).
The sound from it is significantly better than the on-board audio I was using before (it's worth noting that it was a 5+ year old fairly inexpensive mobo).

Thanks for the suggestion! Definitely going to have a look into that one. I'm currently using the front headphone port on my case :(

Should I combo it with a soundcard too?

I use a pair of audio technica ath-m50x, is it even worth looking into some sort of amp setup?

If so, what's something that's a good entry level that I should check out?
Amp would be a bit overkill but you could invest in a dac.

Ah righto, I'm not too good at all this headphone stuff, but an amp is just to supply more power (and thus impacting sound quality on higher-end pairs?) to the headphones that you're using right?

In that case, what does a dac do?

Would you recommend something like what Narwhals suggested?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 27 February 2016, 22:42:41
@Bomble, my question to you is.....does your present setup get loud enough for your M50X? If so, don't waste your money on amps as they simply make sound louder.....not necessarily better. I assume you're using your mobo audio, if the DAC in it is capable of decoding all the audio codecs (FLAC, AIFF, MP3, WAV, and DSD, last being capable only by external DACs AFAIK), then don't bother buying anything else.

FYI, external DAC's can be of two types, dedicated DAC or combo. The former is capable of decoding digital audio data into electrical signals or continuously variable voltage (analog) (or some malarkey like that). The latter DAC combos have an amp section built into it to power headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bomble on Sun, 28 February 2016, 04:53:48
@Bomble, my question to you is.....does your present setup get loud enough for your M50X? If so, don't waste your money on amps as they simply make sound louder.....not necessarily better. I assume you're using your mobo audio, if the DAC in it is capable of decoding all the audio codecs (FLAC, AIFF, MP3, WAV, and DSD, last being capable only by external DACs AFAIK), then don't bother buying anything else.

FYI, external DAC's can be of two types, dedicated DAC or combo. The former is capable of decoding digital audio data into electrical signals or continuously variable voltage (analog) (or some malarkey like that). The latter DAC combos have an amp section built into it to power headphones.

Plenty loud enough for sure, I guess I just totally misunderstood what and amp/dac does. I've never had any issue with any sort of audio codec so I guess I'm all good to just stick with what I've got already. Cheers for your help!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bevo on Sun, 28 February 2016, 05:27:36
I have an Astell & Kern Ak240 on the way. Can't wait to hear how it sounds when paired with my UERMs :D

What made you choose the 240? I must admit it's a beautiful piece of kit
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Sun, 28 February 2016, 06:12:32
I use a pair of audio technica ath-m50x, is it even worth looking into some sort of amp setup?

If so, what's something that's a good entry level that I should check out?
I can recommend the FiiO E10k (http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2).
The sound from it is significantly better than the on-board audio I was using before (it's worth noting that it was a 5+ year old fairly inexpensive mobo).

Thanks for the suggestion! Definitely going to have a look into that one. I'm currently using the front headphone port on my case :(

Should I combo it with a soundcard too?
It's a DAC/Amp so you don't need anything else. You just plug it into a usb port and plug your headphones into it.


I'm currently using the front headphone port on my case :(
Use the back port on your case if possible, the front port tends to be noisy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 28 February 2016, 10:23:45
Completely non-audio related, but I saw a pair of Asus GTX Titan going for about 533USD, I couldn't help myself and snagged them. Custom paint job in RoG red/black so appealed to me since I'm an RoG fanboy....
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/03_zpsgbrf41an.jpg)

And yes, I'd noticed the dust on my PSU in the pic and have since cleaned it up.....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sun, 28 February 2016, 13:59:30
Completely non-audio related, but I saw a pair of Asus GTX Titan going for about 533USD, I couldn't help myself and snagged them. Custom paint job in RoG red/black so appealed to me since I'm an RoG fanboy....
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/03_zpsgbrf41an.jpg)


And yes, I'd noticed the dust on my PSU in the pic and have since cleaned it up.....

Need to get one of those custom sleeved psu cable kits for your psu ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Vittra on Sun, 28 February 2016, 14:05:27
There's a computer thread around here somewhere actually... I am completely unmotivated to find it at the moment. :|
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Sun, 28 February 2016, 17:05:16
I have an Astell & Kern Ak240 on the way. Can't wait to hear how it sounds when paired with my UERMs :D

What made you choose the 240? I must admit it's a beautiful piece of kit

Have a friend who had the AK100ii and then went to the AK240 and said good things about it, though she has the RWAK240. Also, from reviewers who tried most of the full range of AK products (minus the AK380 and AK320), it seemed like the AK240 was considered the best out of them. I managed to find a used one for a very good price so I decided to go for it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xJudas on Wed, 02 March 2016, 18:50:50
Got my first pair of IEMs the other day, SE425s, and they sound excellent. Now I just gotta find some cables with a remote for when I'm on my bike :D

(http://i.imgur.com/i3Efepn.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: djchup on Thu, 03 March 2016, 10:47:17
The headband broke on my JVC SZ2000's and I don't think there's an easy solution :(

Only thing I can think to do would be to buy a set of SZ1000's and scrap them for the headband.  Not exactly a cheap fix.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 03 March 2016, 11:19:32
Completely non-audio related, but I saw a pair of Asus GTX Titan going for about 533USD, I couldn't help myself and snagged them. Custom paint job in RoG red/black so appealed to me since I'm an RoG fanboy....
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/03_zpsgbrf41an.jpg)


And yes, I'd noticed the dust on my PSU in the pic and have since cleaned it up.....

I'm not sure why you'd get titans for 250, since like 970s are way way faster..

Do you do gpu compute at all?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HannahPeach on Thu, 03 March 2016, 11:37:16
Got my first pair of IEMs the other day, SE425s, and they sound excellent. Now I just gotta find some cables with a remote for when I'm on my bike :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/i3Efepn.jpg)


My man, those things are the bomb.
Just wondering though, why wouldn't you just go ahead and pick up the se535?
IIRC it's not that much of a difference moneywise.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xJudas on Thu, 03 March 2016, 16:42:59
Got my first pair of IEMs the other day, SE425s, and they sound excellent. Now I just gotta find some cables with a remote for when I'm on my bike :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/i3Efepn.jpg)


My man, those things are the bomb.
Just wondering though, why wouldn't you just go ahead and pick up the se535?
IIRC it's not that much of a difference moneywise.

I bought a bunch of studio equipment from my friend who works at a guitar center, they were $150 (at cost) and the last ones in stock. They didn't have the SE535s otherwise I would have considered them. Overall though I'm happy with my purchase, I can use the dough I saved for some custom sleeves or something.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 06 March 2016, 04:03:26
I'm not sure why you'd get titans for 250, since like 970s are way way faster..

Do you do gpu compute at all?
AT those prices, yes, I would rather get a pair of GTX970's. Buuut, you assume I'm in the US, I'm actually in Asia, nVidia products are overpriced here. Why not get them from eBay then? Well, I didn't want the hassle of shipping stuff back for RMA because the local distros of the various brands here ain't interested in helping with RMA (should the need arise), NOT that I can blame them. There was another thread with a guy selling his 2x GTX970's for about 80USD more, I suppose I could have gotten those......but I think there's something secksay about owning a pair of 6GB Titans. :p

Audio related, still waiting for my NuForce uDAC-3 to arrive, should be soon though. Also waiting for a set of Emotiva Control Freak Balanced to arrive as well.....soon'ish is the best way to describe the ETA. Meanwhile, I'm using a set of TC Electronic audio volume controller (given to me by the ESI nEAR06 monitors/speakers seller), it's a little wonky as the potentiometer is worn out or damaged, adjusting volume results in static noise and channel imbalance. So need the Emotiva CF Balanced soon.....goin' nuts using this $#@% audio controller now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HannahPeach on Sun, 06 March 2016, 08:00:12
Got my first pair of IEMs the other day, SE425s, and they sound excellent. Now I just gotta find some cables with a remote for when I'm on my bike :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/i3Efepn.jpg)


My man, those things are the bomb.
Just wondering though, why wouldn't you just go ahead and pick up the se535?
IIRC it's not that much of a difference moneywise.

I bought a bunch of studio equipment from my friend who works at a guitar center, they were $150 (at cost) and the last ones in stock. They didn't have the SE535s otherwise I would have considered them. Overall though I'm happy with my purchase, I can use the dough I saved for some custom sleeves or something.

Have you considered getting some custom molded ear pieces made for these?
They are perfect when customized.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xJudas on Sun, 06 March 2016, 15:46:32
Got my first pair of IEMs the other day, SE425s, and they sound excellent. Now I just gotta find some cables with a remote for when I'm on my bike :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/i3Efepn.jpg)


My man, those things are the bomb.
Just wondering though, why wouldn't you just go ahead and pick up the se535?
IIRC it's not that much of a difference moneywise.

I bought a bunch of studio equipment from my friend who works at a guitar center, they were $150 (at cost) and the last ones in stock. They didn't have the SE535s otherwise I would have considered them. Overall though I'm happy with my purchase, I can use the dough I saved for some custom sleeves or something.

Have you considered getting some custom molded ear pieces made for these?
They are perfect when customized.

I am very interested in getting some custom molds, any recommendations?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 11 March 2016, 03:08:36
Ordered a NuForce uDAC-3 from MD a while back, it finally came today (along with my Emotiva Control Freak Balance which is a sorta volume controller).
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/08_zpstj60g2ml.jpg)
I took a shot of it with a thumbdrive just to show how small the little DAC is....
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/10_zpsgxhai3ni.jpg)
And because this is a keyboard centric forum, I just had to include this!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/06_zps27vlzn0w.jpg)
Yes, I'm aware that it has Kailh switch instead of Cherry MX, but it looks good, feels great to type on (bought the Kailh Blue version)......well, always wanted an RGB keyboard to add to my collection anyways. ;D Oh yeah, I'd gotten the Armaggeddon Hornet RGB together with the mouse (RGB as well) in the first pic, with further discount to the already 15% discount on the Hornet.....there's a big PC related sale going on in my neck of the woods.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tstackhouse on Fri, 11 March 2016, 13:57:54
I've had a really good experience with my Grago SR60i's They've lasted me a good long while and they still sound amazing, even using my onboard audio (2012 MBP).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tullyvivi on Sun, 13 March 2016, 12:51:44
I stopped messing around with headphones when I am outside, as long as it makes sounds, I am happy.
For indoor, I have the sony ones and trying out different usb amps.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: x9Memoriez on Tue, 15 March 2016, 04:50:24
Decided this would be the right place to ask this.

Is anyone here partly familiar with modifying Beyerdynamic DT990 (Or any headphones for that matter) Into a headphone with a detachable/replaceable cable?

I've got the 3.5mm stereo housing and spare single core wires, just unsure about how to go about this. (Soldering iron, Heat gun, Dremel and Solder i have.)

My desk setup atm

Beyerdynamic DT990 Premiums, 600 Ohm, With a Fiio E17k Dac/Amp (Surprising that it drives the 600 ohm beasts well, dont see a need for the Fiio K5), and a Black Bluelounge Posto Aluminium Headphone Stand. (Cheap as, like 29 AUD)[attachimg=1]

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Fiery on Tue, 15 March 2016, 06:43:18
Thought I'd jump in here and share what I have and my experiences.

I currently own:

Headphones:

Beyerdynamic DT770 80ohm versions (Probably gonna sell them soon)

ATH-M50X (mostly used for travel or when I'm not at my desk)

Shure SE-215 (use them for a bit of everything)

Koss Portapro (only use them when working out)

Hifiman HE-400s (currently what I use at my desk)

AMP/DAC

Schitt Asgard 2

Fiio E10K

I started out with the DT770 and they have served me well. But I want to talk about HE-400s I love them they go so well with the asgard 2 (using the E10K as a DAC). I tried 3 amps in the store where I bought both the amp and the 400s's. I tried a lower end amp which paled slightly compared to the asgard, and I also got to try the valhalla 2 which was too warm and bassy which only ended up drowning out mids and highs and making vocals fade. But the Asgard struck the right balance for me giving a warm crisp sound with a balanced sound signature that I love. The cool thing is that despite living in Norway I didn't only get to buy the asgard but try it, as far as I know it's the only place in Norway that is allowed to sell Schitt products due to having some connections! Now I really enjoy the SE-215's I find them to be the most versatile, I can use them while traveling, working out, in class, at home, anywhere. And considering their price they sound better than the 770's and on par with the M50's. I still am glad I own the M50's as it can be nice to change it up, so for travel and school I change between them and 215's. I don't really know what else to say other than I like openbacks and IEM's :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 15 March 2016, 07:22:02
@x9Memoriez, I think your best chance of finding out how to mod the DT990 Premium with the detachable cable mod starts at HeadFi. BTW, I have the DT990 Premium as well, lovely can with sparkly treble and nice thumping bass (Ofc, not Beats or basshead level though).

Anyway, I'm arranging with a friend to get a pair of HiFiMan HE1000, and with any luck, I should have it in a month or two. This will be my first true summit-fi can......
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: awakened on Tue, 15 March 2016, 07:51:20
Just got my first pair of highquality headphones HE-400s ! what do you guys think?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Tue, 15 March 2016, 08:50:25
Just got my first pair of highquality headphones HE-400s ! what do you guys think?
HE-400 or HE-400S?
I've been thinking about getting the HE-400S because I want to try out some planars but I'll probably wait until after the summer.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Fiery on Tue, 15 March 2016, 10:04:36
Just got my first pair of highquality headphones HE-400s ! what do you guys think?
HE-400 or HE-400S?
I've been thinking about getting the HE-400S because I want to try out some planars but I'll probably wait until after the summer.

I have have the 400S and I love them. my first planars, the only downside I have isthat I can't use them during videocalls :P the headband looks silly but works.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Diokhan on Tue, 15 March 2016, 10:16:03
my sennheiser momentums got dropped off, can't wait to get home.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mrbishop on Tue, 15 March 2016, 11:01:42
Creative Soundblaster Evo ZX

bluetooth, USB, or 3.5mm

what can i say... i like options :D

they sound good too.
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 15 March 2016, 11:10:54
my sennheiser momentums got dropped off, can't wait to get home.
Nice! My friend has the Momentum BT and I love the sound, great treble energy with a nice bass thump.....quite fun to listen with. :thumb:

I've thinnned out my collection of cans, the HE1000 will be my final end game can.....but, I'll definitely be keeping a few of my other cans as well. Sold off my HE400i, ATH-W5000 and ATH-AD2000, but will be keeping:
HFM HE500/HE4, Denon AH-D7000/AH-D2000, Grado GS1000i/PS1000, AKG K812, Sennheiser HD800, AT ATH-A900X LTD, MrSpeakers Alpha Dog (definitely keeping the A900X LTD and Alpha Dog as these are my only two pairs of closed back cans), and my modded Fostex T50RP. I'm of two minds as to what to do with my Fidleio X1 and Beyerdynamic DT990 Premium. I'm more likely to sell the former and keep the latter as I like its sig sound. Still, I might sell it off in the local forums if the price is right......there was a time when I had something like 18-20 pairs of headphones, I do go overboard sometimes.... :-[
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Red October on Wed, 16 March 2016, 00:17:55
I use Beyerdynamic DT100 and I couldn't be happier with it.  I've had it for three or four years now and it sounds better than anything else I've ever used.  Now I've never had fancy Japanese electrostatic earphones, but I've had nice headsets including many KOSS ones.  It has enough isolation that it can substitute for noise-cancelling headphones versus a PC that's cranking away with the fans on high or a cheap, nasty Chinese air conditioner that you're using while you get the problem in the good one fixed.  I haven't had the opportunity to try them in an aeroplane, but I'd rather have them than nothing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: GL1TCH3D on Wed, 16 March 2016, 08:16:05
Wow...


AK240 > Aune B1 portable amp > TH-X00

Fantastic combo. However the AK240 is a bit of a bank breaker.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Diokhan on Wed, 16 March 2016, 08:25:00
Momentums are really fun to listen to :)
Only missing some not too expensive mobile dac.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: x9Memoriez on Wed, 16 March 2016, 22:52:51
Momentums are really fun to listen to :)
Only missing some not too expensive mobile dac.

Try something from fiio
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Diokhan on Thu, 17 March 2016, 02:09:11
Momentums are really fun to listen to :)
Only missing some not too expensive mobile dac.

Try something from fiio

Been thinking about the e10k
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: awakened on Thu, 17 March 2016, 16:51:00
Just got my first pair of highquality headphones HE-400s ! what do you guys think?
HE-400 or HE-400S?
I've been thinking about getting the HE-400S because I want to try out some planars but I'll probably wait until after the summer.

waiting until after summer would be wise, a lot of discounts going on! even on amazon, but I went for the S just because it would be cheaper and its my first pair.. I think going from beats/razor headset the only way is up!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: -musubi on Sat, 19 March 2016, 14:12:00
Few years ago, my first "nice" headphones were the V-moda m100s, which have been extremely reliable and sturdy. They're still great to portability as well. However I really wanted to have a nice home setup as well, and more comfortable so over Christmas I treated myself to the Hifiman HE-560 and the JDS Element to pair alongside it.

Now these absolutely blew me away with their accuracy, planar bass, and comfort. Only gripe about them is their build quality doesn't absolutely scream top-notch, especially how much it cost my wallet  :'( but still for home use I think they're wonderful since I don't expect to carry around and wear them down anyways.

The JDS element is another really nice unit. What is best about it is that it's a DAC/AMP combo (probably not the BEST if you want absolute performance) but in terms of form and function, its extremely convenient. It has an auto DAC-inline / headphone switch so that you can keep both your headphones in and an external speaker setup connected, and it'll automatically switch to the proper output depending on if you turn it on (headphone amp) or off (headphone amp off, DAC inline on). Plus the rotary knob is just stunning and so sleek, definitely appears classy on my desk. And its all in one unit!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: -musubi on Sat, 19 March 2016, 14:14:09
Just got my first pair of highquality headphones HE-400s ! what do you guys think?
HE-400 or HE-400S?
I've been thinking about getting the HE-400S because I want to try out some planars but I'll probably wait until after the summer.

I think I would go with the HE-400i, from all the reviews and comparisons I've read, it seems to be really similar to the HE-560 (I have that) and seems more well rounded. Plus it goes on sale for $300 often (crazy deal!), so I would wait for it to show up around then again :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: x9Memoriez on Mon, 21 March 2016, 04:59:12
Well, i finished doing the removable cable mod to my Dt-990s.

Perfectly fine, except for one thing.

At the SUUUPER low frequencies, (Im talking 15-20hz and Down), The left earcup starts making a buzzing noise that's really audible, however the right side does not do this.

Anyone know whats going on? Have i blown out the left driver? (it sounds perfect apart from this little anomaly)

Its completely livable since only 1 of my 100+ song playlist has such low notes, its such a itch that i cant scratch.

Is it possible that my soldering is ****?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Mon, 21 March 2016, 08:14:00
Well, i finished doing the removable cable mod to my Dt-990s.

Perfectly fine, except for one thing.

At the SUUUPER low frequencies, (Im talking 15-20hz and Down), The left earcup starts making a buzzing noise that's really audible, however the right side does not do this.

Anyone know whats going on? Have i blown out the left driver? (it sounds perfect apart from this little anomaly)

Its completely livable since only 1 of my 100+ song playlist has such low notes, its such a itch that i cant scratch.

Is it possible that my soldering is ****?

buzzing just means that there is a vibration occurring.  The driver housing could be loose, or a component is reacting to a resonant frequency and vibrating on its own.  More likely that the housing is somehow not as secure as it should be.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Mon, 21 March 2016, 12:36:52
I'm still very happy with my current setup. Audeze LCD-2.2 paired with a Aune X1 MK2 amp/DAC. It would've been nice if the X1 had a high/low gain switch though. It really isn't designed with low impedance cans in mind which results in a very sensitive volume knob. I can only go to about the 10 o'clock position before I'm about to blow my brains out. Other than that it works like a charm.  ;D

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Desktop/LCD-2.2.jpg)

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Desktop/Aune%20X1.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dannrawr on Mon, 21 March 2016, 20:42:29
Currently using Beyerdynamic Custom One pro and MSI D502, the mic on msi is starting to fail. and the beyer got problem with only hearing the lef side only, need to adjust the cable at headphones to get a clear sound on brro. how to check my beyer is not broken? and a good cable for beyerdynamic custom one pro is? thamls
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: radio_killah on Tue, 22 March 2016, 01:36:41
Demo'd the HD800 this weekend for the first time. I need them in my life. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: x9Memoriez on Tue, 22 March 2016, 21:03:43
Well, i finished doing the removable cable mod to my Dt-990s.

Perfectly fine, except for one thing.

At the SUUUPER low frequencies, (Im talking 15-20hz and Down), The left earcup starts making a buzzing noise that's really audible, however the right side does not do this.

Anyone know whats going on? Have i blown out the left driver? (it sounds perfect apart from this little anomaly)

Its completely livable since only 1 of my 100+ song playlist has such low notes, its such a itch that i cant scratch.

Is it possible that my soldering is ****?

buzzing just means that there is a vibration occurring.  The driver housing could be loose, or a component is reacting to a resonant frequency and vibrating on its own.  More likely that the housing is somehow not as secure as it should be.

Are you sure? When the left driver is outside of the cup, and i play music through it, it sitll makes the same buzzing/farting noise :l
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Binge on Tue, 22 March 2016, 21:31:25
Well, i finished doing the removable cable mod to my Dt-990s.

Perfectly fine, except for one thing.

At the SUUUPER low frequencies, (Im talking 15-20hz and Down), The left earcup starts making a buzzing noise that's really audible, however the right side does not do this.

Anyone know whats going on? Have i blown out the left driver? (it sounds perfect apart from this little anomaly)

Its completely livable since only 1 of my 100+ song playlist has such low notes, its such a itch that i cant scratch.

Is it possible that my soldering is ****?

buzzing just means that there is a vibration occurring.  The driver housing could be loose, or a component is reacting to a resonant frequency and vibrating on its own.  More likely that the housing is somehow not as secure as it should be.

Are you sure? When the left driver is outside of the cup, and i play music through it, it sitll makes the same buzzing/farting noise :l
I didn't know you had it outside of the driver like that.  I do know that buzzing is often caused by mounting issues, but maybe it's to the point where you should try to get another one to compare against or consider a different replacement.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: x9Memoriez on Wed, 23 March 2016, 02:29:02
Well, i finished doing the removable cable mod to my Dt-990s.

Perfectly fine, except for one thing.

At the SUUUPER low frequencies, (Im talking 15-20hz and Down), The left earcup starts making a buzzing noise that's really audible, however the right side does not do this.

Anyone know whats going on? Have i blown out the left driver? (it sounds perfect apart from this little anomaly)

Its completely livable since only 1 of my 100+ song playlist has such low notes, its such a itch that i cant scratch.

Is it possible that my soldering is ****?

buzzing just means that there is a vibration occurring.  The driver housing could be loose, or a component is reacting to a resonant frequency and vibrating on its own.  More likely that the housing is somehow not as secure as it should be.

Are you sure? When the left driver is outside of the cup, and i play music through it, it sitll makes the same buzzing/farting noise :l
I didn't know you had it outside of the driver like that.  I do know that buzzing is often caused by mounting issues, but maybe it's to the point where you should try to get another one to compare against or consider a different replacement.

I completely rewired the ground wire with some fresh wire i had laying around, and the buzzing's gone. Not sure what might've caused it, maybe my fiddling around with the mod stuffed up something on the ground, But lesson learnt i guess. Cheers anyway
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 23 March 2016, 04:23:27
Demo'd the HD800 this weekend for the first time. I need them in my life.
Heh, now you know why I ain't gonna part with mine ever again, even when I get the HEK.....the HD800, and the AKG K812, will be part of my permanent collection.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: klennkellon on Wed, 23 March 2016, 04:41:14
I'd like a new pair of headphones to replace my dt770s

I'm thinking the Sennheiser HD-600 or 650, look comfortable and have a different sound than the beyers.

Also looking at some Grados, I think I like some super-aural more than circamural
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 23 March 2016, 08:44:46
noble needs to hurry up! :'(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: vkulla on Sat, 26 March 2016, 08:18:43
Bought a pair of German Maestro GMP 8.300D 5 month ago for roughly 100 Euro. I really like them so far and they saved me some bucks compared to the ath-m50x.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Khers on Sun, 27 March 2016, 09:59:34
.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HannahPeach on Sun, 27 March 2016, 13:12:00
Got my first pair of IEMs the other day, SE425s, and they sound excellent. Now I just gotta find some cables with a remote for when I'm on my bike :D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/i3Efepn.jpg)


My man, those things are the bomb.
Just wondering though, why wouldn't you just go ahead and pick up the se535?
IIRC it's not that much of a difference moneywise.

I bought a bunch of studio equipment from my friend who works at a guitar center, they were $150 (at cost) and the last ones in stock. They didn't have the SE535s otherwise I would have considered them. Overall though I'm happy with my purchase, I can use the dough I saved for some custom sleeves or something.

Have you considered getting some custom molded ear pieces made for these?
They are perfect when customized.

I am very interested in getting some custom molds, any recommendations?


The hearing aid dealer of your choice should be able to help you out if you ask him about it. Sorry for the late reply!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: x9Memoriez on Tue, 29 March 2016, 19:34:20
Does anyone here know a good quality 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable that will last a while?

Maybe like 10-20 usd and the ability to ship to australia.

cheers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Wed, 30 March 2016, 09:05:10
I decided to treat myself a little and upgrade my headphones. So, I jumped on the Fostex TH-X00 currently on Massdrop after reading a fair few positive reviews and comments about them. I guess these should be a solid upgrade from my current AKG K550, but I fear that my Audioquest Dragonfly might not be up to the job, at least not quality wise (from what I've understood, the TH-X00 are about as easy to drive as my K550 which can be run directly from a smartphone).

Hence; does anyone have a solid recommendation for a relatively inexpensive (I don't feel the need to burn significantly more on the amp/dac than I did on the headphones) amplifier (preferably an amp/dac combo, I dislike wasting space on my desk – also vertical) that suit the character of the TH-X00? I guess there are a couple of TH-X00 users on the forum; what are you driving yours with and are what do you think of them?

From my brief market research I've found two interesting products, the Chord Mojo (my god is that ugly though) and the (also Massdropified) Grace Design m9xx. Anyone having experience with those two? Or should I just continue with the Dragonfly?

I don't know about the Dragonfly, but the JDS Labs C5D is a fantastic little unit that should serve your needs well. Chord Mojo is over-rated from what I've read.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Khers on Wed, 30 March 2016, 14:42:56
.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: LiquidEvilGaming on Wed, 30 March 2016, 15:12:02
Never really used headphones more than my speakers so i tend to budget shop for cans.  Right now i have a set of JVC HA RX900 and for the price i paid they sound fairly decent really.  I mostly only use them if i game while the wife is asleep.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sek1ne on Thu, 31 March 2016, 14:53:59
Right now I'm using a set of ath-m50x. They are far and away the best headphones I've had. Granted they are the first set that I've paid more than $100 for. I'm not sure what else I would get though. thinking I might invest in a DAC.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: UTommieTanka on Thu, 31 March 2016, 16:52:11
edit:look below, looks like I can't post in the correct thread lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: UTommieTanka on Thu, 31 March 2016, 16:52:54
Anyone got some recommendations for a pair of headphones with a bit more bass than my HD558's?

These are em - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones-Technology/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459460964&sr=8-1&keywords=sennheiser+hd+558
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Thu, 31 March 2016, 16:53:16

You... Completely got both your posts mixed up lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: UTommieTanka on Thu, 31 March 2016, 16:53:45

You... Completely got both your posts mixed up lol
Yeah lol! Going through them now and changing them xD
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eksuen on Thu, 31 March 2016, 17:15:04
Anyone got some recommendations for a pair of headphones with a bit more bass than my HD558's?

These are em - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones-Technology/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459460964&sr=8-1&keywords=sennheiser+hd+558

For bass bliss, while I have not tried the newer versions, I love my pair of Sony MDR XB700 with their super comfortable "SUNDAY! SUNDAY! SUNDAY!" monster truck tire earpads. I've tried the ATH-M50X and I do not find the bass as impressive or enjoyable as that of the XB700.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: UTommieTanka on Thu, 31 March 2016, 17:20:58
Anyone got some recommendations for a pair of headphones with a bit more bass than my HD558's?

These are em - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones-Technology/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459460964&sr=8-1&keywords=sennheiser+hd+558

For bass bliss, while I have not tried the newer versions, I love my pair of Sony MDR XB700 with their super comfortable "SUNDAY! SUNDAY! SUNDAY!" monster truck tire earpads. I've tried the ATH-M50X and I do not find the bass as impressive or enjoyable as that of the XB700.

It'd be great if I could just drop £600 on a set of headphones lol. I was looking for more around the £200 mark :P

I did look at the ATH-M50X before getting my 588's but I hate earcups that sit on the ear.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eksuen on Thu, 31 March 2016, 17:26:33
Anyone got some recommendations for a pair of headphones with a bit more bass than my HD558's?

These are em - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones-Technology/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459460964&sr=8-1&keywords=sennheiser+hd+558

For bass bliss, while I have not tried the newer versions, I love my pair of Sony MDR XB700 with their super comfortable "SUNDAY! SUNDAY! SUNDAY!" monster truck tire earpads. I've tried the ATH-M50X and I do not find the bass as impressive or enjoyable as that of the XB700.

It'd be great if I could just drop £600 on a set of headphones lol. I was looking for more around the £200 mark :P

I did look at the ATH-M50X before getting my 588's but I hate earcups that sit on the ear.

Yeah, unfortunately the XB700 is a discontinued model so the ones you can find online tend to be really expensive.

The new line of XB Extra Bass headphones from Sony should have models that fit your budget. But as I have not tried any of them, I cannot speak to their performance. If they are anything like their predecessors, I think they'd be worth some consideration.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 31 March 2016, 22:31:45
Right now I'm using a set of ath-m50x. They are far and away the best headphones I've had. Granted they are the first set that I've paid more than $100 for. I'm not sure what else I would get though. thinking I might invest in a DAC.
If your onboard, or soundcard or whatever external device you're using, gets loud enough for your M50X and can decode the music format you want (like FLAC, MP3, WAV, etc), then getting a DAC combo (a DAC with an amp section) would be a complete waste. Besides, from what I've heard, the M50X is quite efficient and can be driven well even from a handphone.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Bucky on Fri, 01 April 2016, 15:54:46
HD800s at home, 1964 Ears V6-Stage at work or traveling.
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 02 April 2016, 04:14:38
Just paid for and collected my latest (and LAST!) headphone purchase, no more after this!
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/he1k%2001_zps9h5sultp.jpg)
A pic of my new acquisition next to one of my fave.....
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/he1k%2003_zpsfz5exsjg.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: UTommieTanka on Sat, 02 April 2016, 06:15:55
Just paid for and collected my latest (and LAST!) headphone purchase, no more after this!
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/he1k%2001_zps9h5sultp.jpg)

A pic of my new acquisition next to one of my fave.....
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/he1k%2003_zpsfz5exsjg.jpg)

There is never a last purchase! Never! Nice headphones though  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Sat, 02 April 2016, 12:16:27
Just paid for and collected my latest (and LAST!) headphone purchase, no more after this!

Good luck with that!  ;D

Awesome new set of cans, though. Congrats!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Sat, 02 April 2016, 13:11:34
Been buying some "best for buck" headphones but all of them are under 50$. Have quite a few for different occasions.

Have Koss KSC-75 (Kramer modded) but can't use them outside home. Then I bought the Superlux HD668B because I wanted something bigger and the good reviews intrigued me. Good budget headphones but again - open design so can't use them in noisy surroundings.

So I needed an everyday in-ears and went with Sony XBA-C10. Oh man, probably the best IEMs I've had. The most comfortable for sure! But they're quite boring. Good sound but sometimes they're not "fun".

Yesterday joined Massdrop buy for Superlux HD562. Have been eyeballing Sennheiser HD25-II but well, I don't have 250$ to spend on them. So hopefully will have almost the same experience for 1/5 of the price. :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 02 April 2016, 21:29:19
Quote from: UTommieTanka
There is never a last purchase! Never! Nice headphones though  :thumb:

Good luck with that!  ;D

Awesome new set of cans, though. Congrats!
Dangit, can't you guys be more supportive of a headphone junkie who's trying to mend his wayward ways?  ;D Is there a canoholic support group somewhere? All I can say is, if I fall off the wagon, it's all on you guys! :p

Anyway, I've got a great reason to stop buying cans......when you have enough cans to cover a table, it's about time to call it quits.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/all_zpsbj3a59fr.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Mon, 04 April 2016, 08:34:14
Quote from: UTommieTanka
There is never a last purchase! Never! Nice headphones though  :thumb:

Good luck with that!  :D

Awesome new set of cans, though. Congrats!
Dangit, can't you guys be more supportive of a headphone junkie who's trying to mend his wayward ways?  ;D Is there a canoholic support group somewhere? All I can say is, if I fall off the wagon, it's all on you guys! :p

Anyway, I've got a great reason to stop buying cans......when you have enough cans to cover a table, it's about time to call it quits.
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/all_zpsbj3a59fr.jpg)


That is a sweet collection you have there, my friend. You can never have too many cans!  :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sek1ne on Fri, 08 April 2016, 13:10:42
Quote from: UTommieTanka
There is never a last purchase! Never! Nice headphones though  :thumb:

Good luck with that!  ;D

Awesome new set of cans, though. Congrats!
Dangit, can't you guys be more supportive of a headphone junkie who's trying to mend his wayward ways?  ;D Is there a canoholic support group somewhere? All I can say is, if I fall off the wagon, it's all on you guys! :p

Anyway, I've got a great reason to stop buying cans......when you have enough cans to cover a table, it's about time to call it quits.
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/all_zpsbj3a59fr.jpg)


That is a lot of headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iLLucionist on Fri, 08 April 2016, 15:02:25
Quote from: UTommieTanka
There is never a last purchase! Never! Nice headphones though  :thumb:

Good luck with that!  ;D

Awesome new set of cans, though. Congrats!
Dangit, can't you guys be more supportive of a headphone junkie who's trying to mend his wayward ways?  ;D Is there a canoholic support group somewhere? All I can say is, if I fall off the wagon, it's all on you guys! :p

Anyway, I've got a great reason to stop buying cans......when you have enough cans to cover a table, it's about time to call it quits.
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/all_zpsbj3a59fr.jpg)


Naaahhh keep telling that to yourself. You've just scratched the surface and you KNOW it brother!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suicidal_orange on Fri, 08 April 2016, 18:06:25
Quote from: UTommieTanka
There is never a last purchase! Never! Nice headphones though  :thumb:

Good luck with that!  ;D

Awesome new set of cans, though. Congrats!
Dangit, can't you guys be more supportive of a headphone junkie who's trying to mend his wayward ways?  ;D Is there a canoholic support group somewhere? All I can say is, if I fall off the wagon, it's all on you guys! :p

Anyway, I've got a great reason to stop buying cans......when you have enough cans to cover a table, it's about time to call it quits.
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/all_zpsbj3a59fr.jpg)


Naaahhh keep telling that to yourself. You've just scratched the surface and you KNOW it brother!

It's a shallow scratch in terms of raw numbers but that's an endgame collection if ever I've seen one :eek:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 11 April 2016, 21:33:14
Bah, you guys ain't helpin' none! :p ;D Like I'd said, I'm being a good boy now, I've laid off the local forum For Sale sub forums, only things I'm getting soon is the HiFiMan HM901S + Dock 1 and a nice little portable tube amp in the Tube Amp BL2, in fact, getting the latter today!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: keshley on Tue, 12 April 2016, 07:19:39
Mmmmmm tubes....

I've only owned desktop tube amps, they're so deliciously warm!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Fiery on Tue, 12 April 2016, 08:38:40
I have only had solid state amps. but my Asgard 2 gets quite hot lol.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Tue, 12 April 2016, 09:46:02
has anyone had the fortune to audition the HA5050H amp from AT?

if 6k drops on my doorstep by any chance, id probably grab one, it looks ****ing amazing
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 12 April 2016, 11:08:25
I'm rather enjoying this portable unit, need to listen longer to form any sort of opinion, but liking what I hear so far. It's very powerful as well, can easily be used as a desk/home headphone amp.....note the orange glow on the perforated part of the case.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/01_zpsltx0qtzk.jpg)
Enjoying Queen with my Fiio X3 II + Tube Amp BL2 + HEK.....note that the volume know (if you can see it) was at about the 8 o'clock mark and it was loud enough for me. Though that isn't saying much as the HEK is quite efficient.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/02_zpsi3acsu4f.jpg)

I tried the amp with my HE4 and HE500, it drove them easily at the 8 o'clock mark as well....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 16 April 2016, 05:08:53
My first, and prolly last, high-end DAP........HiFiMan HM 901s + Dock 1
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/05_zpsf6zsuqbe.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iLLucionist on Sat, 16 April 2016, 05:12:02
Makes me wonder.. I have SLR studio monitors but my TV-setup is mini jack / optic audio at best.

Is there a way to connect SLR monitors to TV / ps4? Or is the impedance / signal-to-noise really off?

In other words: how can I get the crisp and detailed sound of studio monitors out of my TV?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Olumin on Sat, 16 April 2016, 14:33:40
I am currently still using my old Sennheiser HD 558 I bought years ago. Had to resolder the contacts several times over the years and recently needed to replace the foam around the ear cups, after all that they still work. They where a significant step up form my old cheapo "gaming" headphones back then. They sound great and I am still very pleased with them, but since I listen to so much music, I will switch to the Sennheiser HD 650 sooner or later. I will need to find a decent AMP before tho, or buy a better sound card, probably the Asus Essence STX II.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 22 April 2016, 09:35:13
Was at the local IT mall to get a Deepcool monitor stand, but before I could make it up to the fourth level of the mall to buy it, I got distracted by a pair of KRK Rokit5 speakers which looked great and sounded pretty damn good. I ended up buying a pair.....buuuuut, I did remember to buy the monitor stand as well. With the stand, I can now slide one of my keyboards under it freeing up some desk space......always a good thing! ;)
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/09_zpsjrjpunia.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 23 April 2016, 11:45:32
definitely in love with ciems. can't unhear newly heard details... but idk if my left seal is bad or if i'm just being picky. i have 30 days to return for refit :\ but dunno if I actually need to or not + extra money/time spent.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suicidal_orange on Sat, 23 April 2016, 11:55:55
Picked up these today with what looks to be the original pads (which have seen better days) and cable, which was taped around the headband and not working, so I've replaced it with some cheap steel hookup wire to keep them sounding as original as possible.  In need of a good clean and a proper recable, but they work!

(http://i.imgur.com/J2R6S5S.jpg)

Audio Technica ATH-0.5, very good when they were released in 1981 apparently...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sek1ne on Sat, 23 April 2016, 12:01:03
Picked up these today with what looks to be the original pads (which have seen better days) and cable, which was taped around the headband and not working, so I've replaced it with some cheap steel hookup wire to keep them sounding as original as possible.  In need of a good clean and a proper recable, but they work!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/J2R6S5S.jpg)


Audio Technica ATH-0.5, very good when they were released in 1981 apparently...

Aside from the wires that looks really cool. How do they sound?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Mon, 25 April 2016, 13:59:08
definitely in love with ciems. can't unhear newly heard details... but idk if my left seal is bad or if i'm just being picky. i have 30 days to return for refit :\ but dunno if I actually need to or not + extra money/time spent.

Told you, naga.  I keep getting the itch to get something new, but I don't know what.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mteinum on Mon, 25 April 2016, 14:23:30
TakeT H2+ and Trafomatic Audio T2+ @ home. Sennheiser Momentum Wireless @ work

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5140/13690919824_c06fb8652d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/mRPxtN)
Trafomatic Audio T2+ &amp; TakeT H2+ (https://flic.kr/p/mRPxtN) by Morten Teinum (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mortenteinum/), on Flickr

TakeT's are more or less head speakers. Big, needs custom amplifier or TR2 thats an transformer you connect between the H2+ and a normal power amplifier. Very open design... sound leaking in and out.

http://www.taket.jp/h2/h2.html

TA T2+ is a tube amplifier with 2xEL34 SET and 6s45p (custom made for H2+).

(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3764/13544277465_7e4b84e8d4_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/mCRXPg)
Trafomatic Audio T2+ (https://flic.kr/p/mCRXPg) by Morten Teinum (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mortenteinum/), on Flickr

Welcome to Head-Fi, sorry about your wallet.” (head-fi.org)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 25 April 2016, 20:09:27
Oh my! Very nice lookin' setup there! :thumb: I'd thought that the AKG K1000 was the only 'head speakers' type can available, the TakeT H2+ looks very interesting. But honestly, at that price level, I'd rather go for a K1000, maybe/prolly be cheaper as well.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: [Lewynlight] on Tue, 26 April 2016, 00:28:35
some of ppl here really have an interesting (and scary) setup..

My first, and prolly last, high-end DAP........HiFiMan HM 901s + Dock 1
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/05_zpsf6zsuqbe.jpg)

why not AKs? 901s does sound very good, but i doubt about the longevity..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ramnes on Tue, 26 April 2016, 07:27:54
New cans, AH-D5000  ;D

(http://i.imgur.com/IktDjA6.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 26 April 2016, 10:24:15
New cans, AH-D5000  ;D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/IktDjA6.jpg)

Hey, 'grats on the purchase! As an owner of both the AH-D7000 and AH-D2000, I do believe you're gonna love it! :thumb: The Denons have great clarity, very good bass (a tad less tight on the D2000, but the D5000 should be good like the D7000) and something of a sparkle. Love mine!

some of ppl here really have an interesting (and scary) setup..

My first, and prolly last, high-end DAP........HiFiMan HM 901s + Dock 1
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/05_zpsf6zsuqbe.jpg)

why not AKs? 901s does sound very good, but i doubt about the longevity..
Nah, though the AK240/380 do sound very good, their pricetags can be a little off-putting. I'd gotten my HM901s and Dock 1 from a friend who's giving up his portable gear, so the price was right! ;D And yes, the SQ on the HM901s is pretty damn good, it has oodles of raw power as it can even power my HEK up to loud enough volume with headroom to spare.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ramnes on Tue, 26 April 2016, 11:04:37
New cans, AH-D5000  ;D

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/IktDjA6.jpg)

Hey, 'grats on the purchase! As an owner of both the AH-D7000 and AH-D2000, I do believe you're gonna love it! :thumb: The Denons have great clarity, very good bass (a tad less tight on the D2000, but the D5000 should be good like the D7000) and something of a sparkle. Love mine!

Nice! Love them so far myself.

What DAC do you use with your Denons?

The sound card on my XPS 13 doesn't have any noise, but sadly it seems to generate some small crackles on some frequencies, which I never heard before using that pair of cans. Those crackles don't exist when I use my D5Ks on another source, which makes me pretty sure that it's coming from the Intel chipset.
That problem makes classical piano really bad to hear, for example :(

Do you have any zero noise DAC to recommend?  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 26 April 2016, 20:50:36
Nice! Love them so far myself.

What DAC do you use with your Denons?

The sound card on my XPS 13 doesn't have any noise, but sadly it seems to generate some small crackles on some frequencies, which I never heard before using that pair of cans. Those crackles don't exist when I use my D5Ks on another source, which makes me pretty sure that it's coming from the Intel chipset.
That problem makes classical piano really bad to hear, for example :(

Do you have any zero noise DAC to recommend?  :)
Eh, I tend to use pricier DAC combo/stack for my cans, I've tried my Denons on my Oppo HA-1 combo, as well as on my Gustard X12 + H10 stack and the Denons do sound quite lovely, no hiss, crackle or pop at all. I play music - DSD128, DSD64, WAV, FLAC and MP3 - thru Foobar2k. You can try Schiit DAC and amp stacks, read very good impressions and reviews about them. I've already sold my Schiit gear, but I used to have the first gen Lyr and Vali, the latter despite its diminutive size was able to handle my Beyerdynamic DT990 600 Ohms quite easily. Oh yeah, the Lyr did have an issue with noise floor I believe, with nothing playing, I did hear a soft hum (I'd to turn up volume a bit though, at the sane level I listen to, I don't hear the hum), either that, or my Lyr was faulty to begin with. :p

You can also read up on the JDS Labs Objective2, though at that price level, I'd rather look at a Schiit Magni + Modi (Gen2? Uber?) stack. Just took note of your XPS 13 reference, so you wanna use the DAC at home? Or portability is a factor? Oh yeah, you can consider the iFi iDSD Nano, great portable unit that does FLAC/WAV/DSD/MP3 well enough, adds a little warmth to the sound. I guess you can read up on them and I'm sure there're literally dozens and dozens of others to choose from.

BTW, there's a MD x HiFiMan HE-350, yes, a collaboration between MassDrop and HiFiMan. The Price? An amazing 99.99USD!!! :thumb:
It's not planar mag but dynamic can, it'd be a good introduction to the HiFiMan sound and a great entry level can for budding audiophiles.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/massdrop-x-hifiman-he-350?mode=guest_open&referer=L6BWP6&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=%5BSpecial%5D%20HifiMan%20Customs%20-%20Audiophile&utm_term=4-26-2016%20HiFiMAN%20Audio
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ramnes on Wed, 27 April 2016, 05:30:39
Eh, I tend to use pricier DAC combo/stack for my cans, I've tried my Denons on my Oppo HA-1 combo, as well as on my Gustard X12 + H10 stack and the Denons do sound quite lovely, no hiss, crackle or pop at all. I play music - DSD128, DSD64, WAV, FLAC and MP3 - thru Foobar2k. You can try Schiit DAC and amp stacks, read very good impressions and reviews about them. I've already sold my Schiit gear, but I used to have the first gen Lyr and Vali, the latter despite its diminutive size was able to handle my Beyerdynamic DT990 600 Ohms quite easily. Oh yeah, the Lyr did have an issue with noise floor I believe, with nothing playing, I did hear a soft hum (I'd to turn up volume a bit though, at the sane level I listen to, I don't hear the hum), either that, or my Lyr was faulty to begin with. :p

Nice stuff that you have here! Why did you sell your Schiit stuff?

About the noise, it's pretty common with tubes, isn't it? I had the chance to test my D5K on some high-end tube amp at another audiophile place, and I really didn't like the sound (noise + too much treble). I'm not an expert though, but for now I'm only considering transistors. :)

You can also read up on the JDS Labs Objective2, though at that price level, I'd rather look at a Schiit Magni + Modi (Gen2? Uber?) stack. Just took note of your XPS 13 reference, so you wanna use the DAC at home? Or portability is a factor? Oh yeah, you can consider the iFi iDSD Nano, great portable unit that does FLAC/WAV/DSD/MP3 well enough, adds a little warmth to the sound. I guess you can read up on them and I'm sure there're literally dozens and dozens of others to choose from.

Yeah, everyone seems to advice the JDS o2, but for the price of the DAC+Amp combo, I'm not sure I want to order it without trying it before... and I doubt there's a single vendor in France. The Modi 2 + Magni 2 seems pretty good too, but might be a bit easier to try out somewhere, so I might go on that way.
I really like the fact that they both do support Linux officially, which doesn't seem that common for DACs.

Portability is half of a factor, in the sense that it's for work, and I don't really want to buy a 20 Kg amp, it must be small enough to be on my desktop. :)
I'm traveling with the laptop sometimes, but I think I'll rather take my Shure IEMs than my Denons, and the Intel cheapset will be good enough.

About the iFi iDSD Nano, this is the first time I hear about it. Going to take a look, but I'm not much into "warm" sounds, I prefer clean neutral and detailed sounds. Also, what to expect from a portable DAC? Is it really the same level of quality as a desktop DAC?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 27 April 2016, 05:31:16
im happy fostex is coming out with all this new **** but also kinda salty as a th600 owner lul
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 01 May 2016, 07:16:33
I didn't buy this, swapped my HE500 with some cash top up on my side for this badboy......
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/01_zpsruvtjf5t.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Wed, 04 May 2016, 19:16:13
Well, I got my Superlux HD562 headphones and well damn! I'm not an audiophile by no means but these are favourite headphones ever. Probably the best I've bought so far in my little budget collection. Thought about getting a small USB dongle-sized DAC for a long time but finally went for the Fiio K1 DAC/AMP yesterday. It will be here around end of May and that will be my first DAC. Slowly but nicely making my setup bigger. :)

(http://i.imgur.com/GN7GCtZ.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 06 May 2016, 09:01:40
Nice! Heard great things about Superlux cans, haven't had the chance to rty one myself though. BTW, are those on-ears or over-ears? Looks to be on-ears to me.....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 06 May 2016, 10:33:32
Yo, where can I get replacement pads for my th600?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 06 May 2016, 11:27:45
Yo, where can I get replacement pads for my th600?
Here you go, Brainwav Velour Memory foam replacement pads....
http://www.amazon.com/Brainwavz-Velor-Memory-Replacements-Earpads/dp/B00MFDX4YO

You can check out other Brainwav pads here
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_2_8?url=search-alias%3Delectronics-accessories&field-keywords=brainwavz+earpads&sprefix=brainwav%2Cundefined%2C700&rh=i%3Aelectronics-accessories%2Ck%3Abrainwavz+earpads

If you have a 110USD budget, the the Lawton Angle pads would do as well. Heard that you can fit Alpha Pads onto the TH600 as well, but you need to stretch it to fit. I have a pair of Lawton Angle Pads on my Denon AH-D7000, I don't find it hard/stiff as others have said it to be. But compared to the Alpha Pads, which are very soft and comfy, then yes, the Lawton pads comes off as being a little hard.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 06 May 2016, 11:38:03
Thanks! The fake leather on mine has started to peel :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 06 May 2016, 12:23:43
Thanks! The fake leather on mine has started to peel :(
No problemo! ;) I had the same peeling/flaking on my original AH-D2000.....that's why I hate fake leather! Anyway, I'd ordered and gotten a pair of Lawton Angle pads, took out the real leather (at least, I think it is as it's more resilient) pads on my AH-D7000 and replaced them with the Lawtons. I then took the pads that were on the AH-D7000 and put them on the AH-D2000 and could not be happier with the result....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Fri, 06 May 2016, 14:08:56
Nice! Heard great things about Superlux cans, haven't had the chance to rty one myself though. BTW, are those on-ears or over-ears? Looks to be on-ears to me.....

Yeah, Superlux is a good choice for a budget audio enthusiast like me. These are on-ears though. Can't wear them for very long, max 1h sessions. I'm wearing glasses & the clamping force is huge so these were definitely not the best choice but the price and described sound signature lured me in. And I'm really enjoying them so far just would like to use them for longer periods of time. Maybe you know some technique or tricks&tips how to make on-ear headphones a bit more comfortable?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 06 May 2016, 16:02:50
Yeah I was gonna get lawton pads for my th600 but i barely wear them now lol rip demik
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: demik on Fri, 06 May 2016, 16:34:32
Yeah I was gonna get lawton pads for my th600 but i barely wear them now lol rip demik

Will now with your broke ass nobles OnO
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 06 May 2016, 16:35:45
Yeah I was gonna get lawton pads for my th600 but i barely wear them now lol rip demik

Will now with your broke ass nobles OnO

ur rite
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 07 May 2016, 15:18:57
rip
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Sun, 08 May 2016, 05:27:01
was browsing minidisc at 2am this morning and saw grado sr80es marked at $0

don't have paypal so I told friend about it

fast forward to this afternoon and it turns out he only bought 1 pair for himself

and they removed grados from their website

****ing rip
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Sun, 08 May 2016, 15:40:27
The Sennheiser Orpheus powering on:
(https://i.imgur.com/UqOUA56.gif)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Mon, 09 May 2016, 01:03:48
The Sennheiser Orpheus powering on:
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/UqOUA56.gif)


There's something powering on in my pants! Hubbahubba! That looks just out of this world sexy!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SBJ on Mon, 09 May 2016, 03:17:21
The Sennheiser Orpheus powering on:
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/UqOUA56.gif)


There's something powering on in my pants! Hubbahubba! That looks just out of this world sexy!
Yeah couldn't have typed it better myself. Holy moly!

I've got two I currently use. For home I have an Audio-Technica ATHPRO700MK2 I was recommended them by a friend in the medium range I think it was, am very satisfied with them.
For work I use a pair of SONY MDRXP950AP - an added perk of these is that I can actually use them while on the job as it recieves calls. I had no idea it did this when I bought them, saw them on sale and read a few reviews.
I'm not a really big audiophile, but I do enjoy nice crisp sound and a little bass doesn't hurt.
(http://i.imgur.com/tXosNxi.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 21 May 2016, 00:08:26
Whoa, this thread needs to be revived! My desktop audio setup for two PC's, hence two sets of mice and keyboards. The Fostex HPA4 (below right side of monitor) is a DAC/amp for my PC on the right (not in pic, but believe me, it's there  ;) ), and also outputs audio via RCA to my Oppo HA-1 (bottom left). The Oppo acts as DAC and headphone amp for my PC on the left, as well as preamp for the Fostex. The Oppo is hooked up to the KRK Rokit5 G3 for those times I don't wish to use my cans.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/setup_zps8oouxvri.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cheekbreek on Sat, 21 May 2016, 01:20:13
I just got a pair of Philips SHP9500's for cheap online. I'm new to audio gear, but so far I quite like them.
They're really comfortable and have nice deep bass.

Although, if anyone could rec some cheaper closed headphones, I'd appreciate it cause the SHP9500's are open ear and I can't really use 'em in public.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eksuen on Sat, 21 May 2016, 03:37:15
I just got a pair of Philips SHP9500's for cheap online. I'm new to audio gear, but so far I quite like them.
They're really comfortable and have nice deep bass.

Although, if anyone could rec some cheaper closed headphones, I'd appreciate it cause the SHP9500's are open ear and I can't really use 'em in public.

The Takstar Pro 80's can be found for cheaper and are quite good for the price. I say "can" because they aren't as widely available as some other entry level headphones out there and their price tends to fluctuate a bit, at least from Google searches. They also have a nice bass response. Incidentally, I have a pair in new condition that I've been trying to sell off for a while if you decide you are interested. Just shoot me a PM.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mteinum on Sat, 21 May 2016, 04:54:35
Work setup, all BT :)

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7117/27049713862_4519d1be95_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/HdhRwW)
HHKB BT (https://flic.kr/p/HdhRwW) by Morten Teinum (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mortenteinum/), on Flickr

Sennheiser Momentum M2 with noise cancellation. Fits my head perfect, can wear these for hours.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 25 May 2016, 11:47:52
Sunny has my Nobles now so hopefully I get them back soon and have a good fit :P
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moistgun on Wed, 25 May 2016, 12:08:48
I just got a pair of Sennheiser HD 280 PROs at a yard sale for $2. They're practically brand new.
I've never really gotten into headphones or quality audio setups.

I was wondering how you guys would rate these in combination with an SMSL SD793-II DAC/Amp?
right now i'm using an optical connection from my computer motherboard.

on a scale of frayed Apple headphones to the best possible setup imaginable
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Wed, 25 May 2016, 12:54:49
Sennheiser HD 280 PROs
More suitable for monitoring, good build quality, potentially uncomfortable.

If you like them, it's decent, say, mid-tier. But they may expose flaws in recordings and there are much more comfortable cans out there.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moistgun on Wed, 25 May 2016, 13:14:32
Sennheiser HD 280 PROs
More suitable for monitoring, good build quality, potentially uncomfortable.

If you like them, it's decent, say, mid-tier. But they may expose flaws in recordings and there are much more comfortable cans out there.

Thanks!  im happy with mid-tier with my untrained ears.  better than bottom of the barrel.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 25 May 2016, 21:42:20
I just got a pair of Sennheiser HD 280 PROs at a yard sale for $2. They're practically brand new.
I've never really gotten into headphones or quality audio setups.

I was wondering how you guys would rate these in combination with an SMSL SD793-II DAC/Amp?
right now i'm using an optical connection from my computer motherboard.

on a scale of frayed Apple headphones to the best possible setup imaginable
Whoa Nellie! Good score! :thumb: That SMSL unit can do up to 24bit/96kHz like my NuForce uDAC3. As long as it can handle your preferred  music formats and gets loud enough, then it's good enough,
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Sat, 28 May 2016, 01:54:47
Anedio D1

endgame reached as far as dac/amp goes. now, just need to upgrade from these dt990s.... i suspect I'll be doing a lot of auditioning in the future hehe
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: scotprice on Wed, 01 June 2016, 20:36:54
i just got  some audio technica ath-m50's.  so far they are better than any other headphone Ive ever tried.  im looking forward to seeing how far down the rabbit hole good headphones will take me.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: FoxWolf1 on Wed, 01 June 2016, 22:53:08
Oh hey, somehow I didn't notice this thread before.

No pics, since I don't feel like cleaning off my desk right now, but running Mad Dogs + Racoon SG-300 here.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Sat, 04 June 2016, 02:07:35
auditioning some higher end headphones gave me a greater appreciation of my dt990s, they still fared extremely well against hd800, 800 S, and even stax sr-009. also, very pleased with how well my anedio D1dac/amp setup does against sennheiser hdva800, and a marantz hd-dac1 and stax srm007. imo the D1 performs slightly better than even the hdva800, which is a pleasant surprise considering the cost difference, as well as how much i paid for my D1
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 04 June 2016, 02:14:59
Yeah I wasn't totally blown away by the HD800 when I got to briefly demo them at a local meet up (ironically it was a keyboard meet). I do wanna try the 800S though!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Sat, 04 June 2016, 02:20:11
Yeah I wasn't totally blown away by the HD800 when I got to briefly demo them at a local meet up (ironically it was a keyboard meet). I do wanna try the 800S though!

not enough difference to justify the huge markup... tbh even switching immediately from one to the other it was insanely hard to notice any difference...

I do however greatly prefer the HD800 to pretty much every headphone I've tried. I'll probably go back in a few weeks time to test out the LCD series and Hifiman's higher end stuff (only tried up to 400S) and see whether my preferences change to planars.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Sat, 04 June 2016, 10:04:29
Anyone here has ordered/owns the "best bang for buck" earbuds (VE Monk Plus) everybody is raving about? Maybe you can tell a bit the earbuds - are they something WOW! or are they just above average for 5 bucks?

Have read good reviews about the sound and stuff so I ordered one pair. Would be used for bike riding probably, so I can hear the surroundings and still have some random guitar solos in my mind at the same time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 04 June 2016, 13:14:12
auditioning some higher end headphones gave me a greater appreciation of my dt990s, they still fared extremely well against hd800, 800 S, and even stax sr-009. also, very pleased with how well my anedio D1dac/amp setup does against sennheiser hdva800, and a marantz hd-dac1 and stax srm007. imo the D1 performs slightly better than even the hdva800, which is a pleasant surprise considering the cost difference, as well as how much i paid for my D1
I have the DT990 Premium and it does hold up well against the HD800, but I do feel that the HD800 is more resolving and add to that, its well known soundstage separates it from the DT990. I listen to them on my Oppo HA-1 (and sometimes on my Gustard X12/H10 stack) and the difference between the two is subtle but appreciable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sat, 04 June 2016, 14:21:02
TIL Sennheiser HD 650 cable works with HD 25. There are such cables for $15 on eBay, and they actually look good.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: klennkellon on Thu, 09 June 2016, 23:11:22
I've been using a pair of beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro 80's since my freshman year of highschool. (5 years ago) They're really nice headphones. A noticable bass emphasis with very sparkly highs but recessed mids. Large soundstage for a closed headphone and overall have an open sound but still isolate well. Velour pads are super comfy but I think they are a little too heavy for me and the cable is too stiff and likes to coil up.

I'm wanting to buy a pair of Sennheiser RS-220 or 180's next, I've heard they are very similar to the HD-600 or HD-650 but they are wireless.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Fri, 10 June 2016, 15:58:28
My MDR-7506's broke after an incident, and I decided that I might want to try a different set. Behold, the ATH-M40x. Not used to the flatter sound, but it's also still burning in. That said, the sound is much less fatiguing than the Sony's. There's less of a mid-bass hump, so I don't get that punchy effect, but the highs are clearer and the base itself is much more well-rounded. A day or so of burning in and I'll update how they sound.

I did steal the Beyerdynamic Velour pads from my Sonys and put them on this headphone. No clue how it changed the sound since I didn't listen to them before hand, but Head Fi seems to think it improves them a bit.

The headphones also come with 2 detachable cables--a long straight one that can plug into an iPod, iPhone, tablet or really anything with a 3.5mm jack, and a coiled one with a much larger jack meant for higher end stereo setups.

[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Sat, 18 June 2016, 08:20:24
xpost.

Just wanted to share what I got today! Well, they are impressive for 5 bucks, that's for sure. Wanted to try some earbuds after a long time. This are alright but need a little more time to get used to them.

(http://i.imgur.com/5xHCOeL.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sat, 18 June 2016, 11:41:44
Can't wait for padawan to get the new focals that are coming out next month.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 19 June 2016, 03:57:11
^
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dannrawr on Sun, 19 June 2016, 05:09:59
My cable for my custom one pro is broken and i need to change the pad too. Fml


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 19 June 2016, 05:52:21
Can't wait for padawan to get the new focals that are coming out next month.
Just send me the 3999USD and I'd get it......for sure! :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 19 June 2016, 12:56:31
Can't wait for padawan to get the new focals that are coming out next month.
Just send me the 3999USD and I'd get it......for sure! :p

Well, I'm getting the Elears probably, sooo no?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Mon, 20 June 2016, 03:47:47
Thought I'd update since I said I would. The M40x are very nice, probably a bit better than the 7506. However, due to their angled drivers they can sound rather... claustrophobic? Well, they just don't have good sound stage. But for something I spent 75 bucks on, I'm happy with what I got: clear highs, good mids, and controlled bass that isn't overemphasized. I wouldn't say they sound flat per se (I've heard they have a rather v-shaped sound profile), but they definitely sound flatter than my 7506's. Definitely a bit of an improvement in my opinion.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 21 June 2016, 11:36:32
Well, I'm getting the Elears probably, sooo no?
Perhaps the Elears, but not so soon though....gonna wait for more feedback first.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DALExSNAIL on Fri, 01 July 2016, 06:15:46
So my dog broke my cheap audio technicas, so I decided to grow a few and buy this. Hope it was a good decision lol

(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160701/91baaf119d02675f47e8b3f20f1a7fe5.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Fri, 01 July 2016, 19:14:43
So my dog broke my cheap audio technicas, so I decided to grow a few and buy this. Hope it was a good decision lol

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160701/91baaf119d02675f47e8b3f20f1a7fe5.jpg)


Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

Which pair of Fostex are those?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DALExSNAIL on Fri, 01 July 2016, 19:25:28
So my dog broke my cheap audio technicas, so I decided to grow a few and buy this. Hope it was a good decision lol

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160701/91baaf119d02675f47e8b3f20f1a7fe5.jpg)


Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

Which pair of Fostex are those?
T40rp mk3

Kinda wanted t50s but these were the only set with prime.

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 01 July 2016, 22:52:17
T40rp mk3

Kinda wanted t50s but these were the only set with prime.

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
First thing you've gotta do when you get the T40RP is to swap out the stock pads with Brainwav or the Alpha pads. The stock pads on my T50RP Mk2 was pretty uncomfortable, treble sounded a tad harsh and grainy, mids was too forward and bass was somewhat lacking. When I'd swapped out the stock pads with a pair of Alpha pads, it made a world of difference. Suddenly treble had smoothed out, mids was more balanced and bass was accented......and the Alpha pads were soooooo comfortable to boot! :thumb:

Oh yeah, I just wanted to share my experience with the good peeps here regarding EMI interference resulting in audio distortion. The electrical supply to my area is rather 'dirty' resulting in a watery, crackling noise when my Oppo HA-1 and KRK Rokit5 are powered on, I could hear this distortion when the volume is set to my usual listening level  which isn't that loud with nothing playing. It got worse when I played my usual games (UT3 and Serious Sam HD), especially so with UT3. I'd believe it was some sorta coil whine and figured I couldn't do anything about it (the Oppo tech guy whom had visited me told me that my setup was definitely noisy). So, the other day, I was at the local tech mall and whilst waiting for my friend, I decided to buy some ferrite chokes (see below)
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/magnetic%20filter_zpsryf7eit4.jpg)
I then clamped these puppies onto the power cables on my Oppo HA-1, speakers, even the PSU cable and all thos annoying distortion vanished. Man, these ferrite chokes (about 1.40USD each) are really lifesavers, saved me from going mad with those distortion (strangely, I don't hear it with my cans on). I've read that KRK speakers are known to be quite susceptible to EMI and the chokes eliminated that issue. Pretty stoked to have found a cheap and good fix for the issue I was having.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DALExSNAIL on Sat, 02 July 2016, 14:34:37
T40rp mk3

Kinda wanted t50s but these were the only set with prime.

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
First thing you've gotta do when you get the T40RP is to swap out the stock pads with Brainwav or the Alpha pads. The stock pads on my T50RP Mk2 was pretty uncomfortable, treble sounded a tad harsh and grainy, mids was too forward and bass was somewhat lacking. When I'd swapped out the stock pads with a pair of Alpha pads, it made a world of difference. Suddenly treble had smoothed out, mids was more balanced and bass was accented......and the Alpha pads were soooooo comfortable to boot! :thumb:


Oh trust me I knew about the pads ;)

(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160702/6c194601668fa8faa223011d61b75e76.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Sun, 03 July 2016, 02:28:07
T40rp mk3

Kinda wanted t50s but these were the only set with prime.

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
First thing you've gotta do when you get the T40RP is to swap out the stock pads with Brainwav or the Alpha pads. The stock pads on my T50RP Mk2 was pretty uncomfortable, treble sounded a tad harsh and grainy, mids was too forward and bass was somewhat lacking. When I'd swapped out the stock pads with a pair of Alpha pads, it made a world of difference. Suddenly treble had smoothed out, mids was more balanced and bass was accented......and the Alpha pads were soooooo comfortable to boot! :thumb:


Oh trust me I knew about the pads ;)

Show Image
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160702/6c194601668fa8faa223011d61b75e76.jpg)


Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

Where can you buy the Alpha pads by themselves?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Sun, 03 July 2016, 02:56:08
https://mrspeakers.com/shop/3-accessories/alpha-pads-genuine-lamb-leather/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 13 July 2016, 12:36:34
Finally got an AMP/DAC...now I'm looking to purchase some new headphones. Stuck between the new Fostex TR90's, HiFiMan HE400s, or the AKG K553 Pro.

Unless of course one of you has a better suggestion?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Wed, 13 July 2016, 12:44:22
Finally got an AMP/DAC...now I'm looking to purchase some new headphones. Stuck between the new Fostex TR90's, HiFiMan HE400s, or the AKG K553 Pro.

Unless of course one of you has a better suggestion?

I like the fidelio x2 a bit more than any of those three, but if I were to have two pair of headphones, the k553 would be the second pair.  I'd mod the cable almost immediately, though, but yeah.  Another closed option that seems to be past fotm is the meze 99 classics, but I haven't had an urge to buy them myself yet.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 13 July 2016, 13:32:27
Finally got an AMP/DAC...now I'm looking to purchase some new headphones. Stuck between the new Fostex TR90's, HiFiMan HE400s, or the AKG K553 Pro.

Unless of course one of you has a better suggestion?

I like the fidelio x2 a bit more than any of those three, but if I were to have two pair of headphones, the k553 would be the second pair.  I'd mod the cable almost immediately, though, but yeah.  Another closed option that seems to be past fotm is the meze 99 classics, but I haven't had an urge to buy them myself yet.

I'll look more into the Fidelio x2. Haven't done much research on them yet. Just looked up the Meze 99 Classics since I've never heard of them and WOW...those look amazing. Might have to save up a little more.

Thanks TJ!!!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Sat, 23 July 2016, 16:32:26
Has anyone heard of this brand of headphone before?

http://www.bravoheadphones.com/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Sat, 23 July 2016, 21:04:37
Has anyone heard of this brand of headphone before?

http://www.bravoheadphones.com/

nope. and I'm having trouble seeing how they've managed to make an electrostatic headphone that doesn't require an amp...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 25 July 2016, 11:51:44
Has anyone heard of this brand of headphone before?

http://www.bravoheadphones.com/

nope. and I'm having trouble seeing how they've managed to make an electrostatic headphone that doesn't require an amp...

So after reading more into these headphones I found that their drivers were created by a company called Verisonix. Interesting company and some really good looking headphones.

http://www.verisonix.com/ <- if anyone else is interested.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: letsjigsrocks on Mon, 25 July 2016, 16:31:20
Just VE monk plus  (indoor) and VJJB V1 (for outdoor).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: [Lewynlight] on Sat, 30 July 2016, 08:30:42
Koss PortaPros plugged into my motherboard's onboard audio. Supa hi-end, yo.

Show Image
(http://www.digimedia.ru/UserFiles/image/materials/2009/august/idozers/KOSS_Porta_Pro.jpg)


same with me. except kramer mod, recabled, and i'm plugging it with an ipod :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pmck on Mon, 22 August 2016, 05:44:22
i just got  some audio technica ath-m50's.  so far they are better than any other headphone Ive ever tried.  im looking forward to seeing how far down the rabbit hole good headphones will take me.

Hows the build quality, I don't know why but I'm a little skeptical about picking up a pair.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Mon, 22 August 2016, 05:51:57
i just got  some audio technica ath-m50's.  so far they are better than any other headphone Ive ever tried.  im looking forward to seeing how far down the rabbit hole good headphones will take me.

Hows the build quality, I don't know why but I'm a little skeptical about picking up a pair.

very solid, shouldnt have any problem with tossing them around. owned them for nearly half a year with 0 issues, only thing worthy of note is that the clamping force is quite high and eventually lead me to sell them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bmilcs on Tue, 23 August 2016, 06:25:54
(http://i.imgur.com/8bewXLX.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/I4LBvGi.jpg)

First time post here :O

These bad boys are sadly going back to make room for my HD650s. I just sold my Poker and Pulse combo and looking to build my first proper amp: Bottlehead Crack Speedball combo
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Tue, 23 August 2016, 10:55:27
Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8bewXLX.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/I4LBvGi.jpg)


First time post here :O

These bad boys are sadly going back to make room for my HD650s. I just sold my Poker and Pulse combo and looking to build my first proper amp: Bottlehead Crack Speedball combo

I just barely got myself a pair of HD600's and LOVE them!!! Saving up for a proper amp as well. Have my eyes set on the Project Ember 2.1.

After that I'm debating on the Hifiman HE560 or Audeze LCD-2.

AMAZING photos btw.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 06 September 2016, 10:48:47
While I'm on a headphone buying hiatus, I was in another forum recommending some cheap China made IEM's I'd read about (TFZ Series 1/2/3, Knowledge Zenith aka KZ, etc) when it struck me that I'm recommending stuff that I'd had no experience with. Well, I decided that it was time to muck around with IEM's, and cheap ones at that! I'd gone out to grab two pairs from the KZ Acoustics range - ZS3 and ED12. Though I'm having a proper seal issue with the ZS3 with the supplied ear tips (will remedy this, and improve on the ED12 by getting Comply tips), the KZ ED12 is proving to be quite true of what I'm hearing in the various forums here in my neck of the woods. They do sound good! Initial impression of the ED12: Nice almost balanced sound with a hint of forward mids and a touch bass boost (tight and NOT at all loose), it's warm sounding to me....will do further listening on my HM901s with Discrete Amp card.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/china%20iem2_zpsl1ivdvrj.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: duynguyenle on Tue, 06 September 2016, 16:47:54
Are earbuds accepted here? Anybody using Ultimate Ears TF10 or UE900?  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 06 September 2016, 18:41:44
Just remembered I have an old high end cable in my drawer, I was using it with a Noble Audio Savant a while back, sold it and dumped the cable into my drawer. Anyway, the cable is an Effect Audio Thor Silver 8 Conductor cable and is pretty high end, I'm tickled pink as this is the first time I have a cable attached to an IEM which costs way, way, waaaaay less than the cable itself.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/effect%20audio%20thor%20silver%208%20wire_zpsjrr8o4ts.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 07 September 2016, 03:27:21
Just remembered I have an old high end cable in my drawer, I was using it with a Noble Audio Savant a while back, sold it and dumped the cable into my drawer. Anyway, the cable is an Effect Audio Thor Silver 8 Conductor cable and is pretty high end, I'm tickled pink as this is the first time I have a cable attached to an IEM which costs way, way, waaaaay less than the cable itself.
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/effect%20audio%20thor%20silver%208%20wire_zpsjrr8o4ts.jpg)


sell me cable for cheep ;'(

on an equally serious note, does the cable actually make a sound quality difference? I've only experienced this with headphones, but all the CIEM cables I see are expensive as ****.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 08 September 2016, 03:22:01
sell me cable for cheep ;'(

on an equally serious note, does the cable actually make a sound quality difference? I've only experienced this with headphones, but all the CIEM cables I see are expensive as ****.
Can't comment about the ED12 + Thor Silver, but I'd initially not put much stock into this 'cable makes a difference' talk.....in fact, I'd thought that peeps who believed in this 'myth' are pretty gullible. But (and you knew this was coming), I was pretty surprised, nay, shocked when I'd tried my Campfire Jupiter with stock tinsel cable vs ALO SXC24 cable. Perhaps the tinsel cable sucked, I dunno, but even to a guy like me, who doesn't have the best hearing around, the ALO SXC24 cable seemed to opened up the sound a little more (more 'airy' and better soundstage) and mids seemed to have moved forward by a little. I tried A/B'ing between tinsel and SXC24 hoping that I'd imagined the difference.....picked up on the same differences between time after time. I was told that IEM's respond more positively to changes in cables compared to cans due to the way they are constructed using BA's and crossovers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Mon, 12 September 2016, 08:13:03
I stumbled upon a pair of second hand Fidelio X1's the other day. The previous owner won them in a contest a while ago, but he only used them a handful of times so they have just been sitting a drawer for like 95% of the time. The original box was missing, but at $59 including shipping, it was too good a deal to pass up.  Even the 'new headphone' smell is still intact. ;D

And I didn't even need more headphones. Damn you, headphone hobby!  :'(

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Desktop/Philips%20Fidelio%20X1.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: yowaffle on Mon, 12 September 2016, 09:09:31
I'm sort of a Massdrop addict so my headphones are all from there:

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 12 September 2016, 17:47:49
I'm sort of a Massdrop addict so my headphones are all from there:

  • Fostex TH-X00s (Love them so much)
  • AKG K553 Pro (Haven't received yet)
  • Final Audio Heaven IIs (IEMs - They're good)

It's hard to pass up on some of the really good deals Massdrop has sometimes. Almost jumped on the Fostex TH-X00's with the ebony finish.

Since then I have grabbed a pair of HD-700's that are in pristine condition. I'm impressed with the building quality and of course the sound. More closed back the the HD-600's and quite a bit heavier too so I'm having a hard time deciding which to keep. I will probably get the Project Ember II amp before I make my final decision.

@ PadawanGeek - I've looked at the images of your collection and dear god man! You have some mighty nice cans....giggity!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 12 September 2016, 22:08:06
well my O2 finally crapped out on me. It no longer holds a charge, and when I plug it in directly it stays on for only a second or two before bliping out of existence.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 12 September 2016, 23:28:40
It's hard to pass up on some of the really good deals Massdrop has sometimes. Almost jumped on the Fostex TH-X00's with the ebony finish.

Since then I have grabbed a pair of HD-700's that are in pristine condition. I'm impressed with the building quality and of course the sound. More closed back the the HD-600's and quite a bit heavier too so I'm having a hard time deciding which to keep. I will probably get the Project Ember II amp before I make my final decision.

@ PadawanGeek - I've looked at the images of your collection and dear god man! You have some mighty nice cans....giggity!
DO you really find the HD700 to be heavy? Then you really ought to build up your neck muscles by getting an Audeze LCD series can, they're great for working on and building neck muscles! :D When I had the HD700 myself, I thought it sounded rather dark, very nice lush bass, but kinda weak on the top end.....ended up sounding rather dark to me.

I was gonna get a Focal Elear later this week, was mentally masturbating over it, kinda hard to just such a purchase in light of the number of great cans I have. Finally decided to ditch the Elear in favor of a 21:9 34" monitor. Gonna check out the few such monitors available here in my neck of the woods. Should be getting one by the end of the week'ish.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Tue, 13 September 2016, 05:23:01
It's hard to pass up on some of the really good deals Massdrop has sometimes. Almost jumped on the Fostex TH-X00's with the ebony finish.

Since then I have grabbed a pair of HD-700's that are in pristine condition. I'm impressed with the building quality and of course the sound. More closed back the the HD-600's and quite a bit heavier too so I'm having a hard time deciding which to keep. I will probably get the Project Ember II amp before I make my final decision.

@ PadawanGeek - I've looked at the images of your collection and dear god man! You have some mighty nice cans....giggity!
DO you really find the HD700 to be heavy? Then you really ought to build up your neck muscles by getting an Audeze LCD series can, they're great for working on and building neck muscles! :D When I had the HD700 myself, I thought it sounded rather dark, very nice lush bass, but kinda weak on the top end.....ended up sounding rather dark to me.

I was gonna get a Focal Elear later this week, was mentally masturbating over it, kinda hard to just such a purchase in light of the number of great cans I have. Finally decided to ditch the Elear in favor of a 21:9 34" monitor. Gonna check out the few such monitors available here in my neck of the woods. Should be getting one by the end of the week'ish.

HD-700's are pretty heavy in general for headphones but I was mostly comparing the weight difference between it and the HD-600's. I have tried on a pair of LCD 2's and I agree...them cans are heavy! I'm loving the HD-700's sound though. The highs aren't as detailed as I would like but that could also be my Fiio e17 not pushing enough power to it. So I'll make my final judgement once I get the other headphone amp.

I would highly suggest the Acer Predator X34. As much as I can vouch that Focal makes some amazing audio equipment....you sir have to many the right amount of headphones. ;)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 13 September 2016, 10:53:50
HD-700's are pretty heavy in general for headphones but I was mostly comparing the weight difference between it and the HD-600's. I have tried on a pair of LCD 2's and I agree...them cans are heavy! I'm loving the HD-700's sound though. The highs aren't as detailed as I would like but that could also be my Fiio e17 not pushing enough power to it. So I'll make my final judgement once I get the other headphone amp.

I would highly suggest the Acer Predator X34. As much as I can vouch that Focal makes some amazing audio equipment....you sir have to many the right amount of headphones. ;)
I had a pair of LCD2.2 nF, but the weight and the Audeze signature sound didn't quite agree with me, sold it off after 'bout a year or so. That's the great thing about this hobby, everyone's entitled to his/her opinion as to what headphones sound good to him/her. We can agree to disagree amicably, that's what's so great about the audio sub-forum here, everyone respects the opinions of the other, nobody's gotten into a hissy fit simply because you don't agree with them. I'd mentioned this a while back: I was in another audio sub forum where a guy threw a fit when I chose to ignore his 'sagely' advice, insisted I was wrong to buy what I'd bought (an iFi iDSD Micro) and that I should not ignore his advice because he thought of himself as an audio guru in that forum. :rolleyes:

Silly me! I didn't realize that the Elear isn't out yet (at least definitely not in my neck of the woods), makes my choice to go with an UW 34" monitor that much easier. And yeah, I'd prolly get the Acer XR341CK  :thumb: , the one with Freesync, as I'm an ATi/AMD man at heart....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kiwi99 on Tue, 13 September 2016, 11:29:41
Got these in the mail yesterday, pretty sweet headphones.
(http://imgur.com/roMlN83.jpg)

I could use an amp for sure though so I guess I'll have to look for something lol  :rolleyes: :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 13 September 2016, 21:38:51
Got these in the mail yesterday, pretty sweet headphones.
Show Image
(http://imgur.com/roMlN83.jpg)


I could use an amp for sure though so I guess I'll have to look for something lol  :rolleyes: :p
Nice! The new version of the T50RP, I have the older version and had it modded with the Mayflower mod kit plus Comfort band (actually from Sennheiser though Mayflower sells it), trouble is, I forgot to bookmark the page of HF which I'd followed for the mod.....now, I dunno what mod I'd done. :'(  One thing's a must though, if the earpads on the V3 is anything like those on the previous model, then a change in earpads is in order. I have replaced the stock earpads of my T50RP with an old pair of Alpha pads (from my MrSpeakers Alpha Dog, I had gotten a brand new pair of Alpha pads for it) and it was a game changer, I noticed an immediate improvement in mids and treble, bass sounded about the same....perhaps more controlled, little wonder MrSpeakers made a wad of cash from the T50RP mods and driver, they're quite responsive to mods. Here's my baby with the Alpha pads...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/mikeysg/3_zpswrbbmtrv.jpg)

Edit - Just got a new toy, not headphone related (but it's got decent sound at least).....gonna set it up over the weekend, kinda tired now....
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/Acer%20box_zpsjviyg0kb.jpg)

There's someone here in my neck of the woods who's selling a pair of T20RP + Shure earpads for ~60USD, I'm thinking of snagging it just for the heck of it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kiwi99 on Thu, 15 September 2016, 11:09:45
Cool Mods! I am definately going to get some new earpads for the first thing I do, I was looking through a list of T50 mods oh lord.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 15 September 2016, 11:53:57
Cool Mods! I am definately going to get some new earpads for the first thing I do, I was looking through a list of T50 mods oh lord.
Exactamundo!  :)) Don't make the same mistake I did by not bookmarking the page on which you wanna copy the mod. I say this again, the earpads made a big difference to me, so be sure to look for a good alternative to replace that stock ones.....and yeah, have fun! :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bmilcs on Sun, 18 September 2016, 09:34:14
Hi Headphone nerds. How am I doing so far?

(http://i.imgur.com/xEC50Jg.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/e0b9ZLV.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/DMR2b6z.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/TKL2oeI.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/gq4BSjA.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZDgsxTy.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/KVPE8QR.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/KKi5VqP.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/7mGimZ4.jpg)

Full album can be found here: http://imgur.com/a/qqEmZ

I am dying to hear some feedback and/or tips.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: silaz on Sun, 18 September 2016, 18:59:47
Hey bmilcs looks like you did a great job on the Bottlehead Crack. Just curious - what headphone are you going to pair it with?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tp4tissue on Mon, 19 September 2016, 03:54:46
Hi Headphone nerds. How am I doing so far?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/xEC50Jg.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/e0b9ZLV.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/DMR2b6z.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TKL2oeI.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/gq4BSjA.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/ZDgsxTy.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KVPE8QR.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KKi5VqP.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/7mGimZ4.jpg)


Full album can be found here: http://imgur.com/a/qqEmZ

I am dying to hear some feedback and/or tips.




Listening through a Toroidal Transformer is equivalent to being one with the Chi Flow of the Universe..

Toroid is the most common shape in nature.

(http://onion-head.atspace.biz/big_onion/013.gif)



E-I is more akin to wrestling with electricity making it do what you want it to do.

Toroidal is more of a gentle handshake, where the two parties involved agree to one outcome.



Well,  you prolly won't hear a difference,  hahahaha...

Do you plan on shielding that E-I transformer, ?  It's pretty close to all your stuff.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 19 September 2016, 04:33:47
Finally got down to setting up the new beastly monitor on my desk, which happens to look pretty small now, guess I'll be in the market for a larger desk soon. Anyway, have replaced my AOC 29" UW with the Acer and it's a gorgeous display. I've been using my Oppo HA-1 + AKG K812 (I'd just realized the K812 hasn't been burnt in yet, so it's my go to can for now....pardon the rather dark image, my room isn't that bright and the camera didn't do diddly to brighten the scene.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/1_zpsswtqmcfc.jpg)

Edit - Since this is more of a keyboard centric forum, it's GH after all, my two keyboards are:
KBT Pure Pro Cherry MX Green (green LED)
Keyboard Paradise KBPV6000 Cherry MX White (blue LED)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 19 September 2016, 13:21:08
Finally got down to setting up the new beastly monitor on my desk, which happens to look pretty small now, guess I'll be in the market for a larger desk soon. Anyway, have replaced my AOC 29" UW with the Acer and it's a gorgeous display. I've been using my Oppo HA-1 + AKG K812 (I'd just realized the K812 hasn't been burnt in yet, so it's my go to can for now....pardon the rather dark image, my room isn't that bright and the camera didn't do diddly to brighten the scene.
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/1_zpsswtqmcfc.jpg)


Edit - Since this is more of a keyboard centric forum, it's GH after all, my two keyboards are:
KBT Pure Pro Cherry MX Green (green LED)
Keyboard Paradise KBPV6000 Cherry MX White (blue LED)



http://www.reactiongifs.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dr00L.gif
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Moistgun on Mon, 19 September 2016, 17:55:43
Just picked up 2 pairs of the monk plus headphones.

Lets see how they compare to my sennheisers
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Skywalker on Tue, 20 September 2016, 16:02:55
I am looking at buying a pair Audio Technica headphones.. currently choosing between the m20x and m30x (budget). You guys have any input?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 20 September 2016, 21:58:25
I am looking at buying a pair Audio Technica headphones.. currently choosing between the m20x and m30x (budget). You guys have any input?
Must it be closed back like the M30X? If you're open to open back cans, Philips SHP9500 would be better especially if you game since it's an open can, it'd have wider soundstage for more accurate positional gaming, and is excellent for music as well. But, it cost a little more at 76USD vs 60USD for the M30X.
https://www.amazon.com/Philips-SHP9500-Precision-Over-ear-Headphones/dp/B00ENMK1DW/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1474426369&sr=8-1&keywords=philips+shp9500

If your surrounding is noisy, or if you wish to NOT disturb anybody nearby (since open back cans leak sound), then the M30X would have to do.

Edit - Made a little boo-boo about my keyboards, the Pure Pro is MX Blue, NOT MX green. I've since replaced the KBPV6000 MX White with a KBT Race II MX Blue, I can't live w/o the arrow keys...using Fn to enable arrow keys is plain annoying.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Skywalker on Wed, 21 September 2016, 12:49:57
I am looking at buying a pair Audio Technica headphones.. currently choosing between the m20x and m30x (budget). You guys have any input?
Must it be closed back like the M30X? If you're open to open back cans, Philips SHP9500 would be better especially if you game since it's an open can, it'd have wider soundstage for more accurate positional gaming, and is excellent for music as well. But, it cost a little more at 76USD vs 60USD for the M30X.
https://www.amazon.com/Philips-SHP9500-Precision-Over-ear-Headphones/dp/B00ENMK1DW/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1474426369&sr=8-1&keywords=philips+shp9500

If your surrounding is noisy, or if you wish to NOT disturb anybody nearby (since open back cans leak sound), then the M30X would have to do.

Edit - Made a little boo-boo about my keyboards, the Pure Pro is MX Blue, NOT MX green. I've since replaced the KBPV6000 MX White with a KBT Race II MX Blue, I can't live w/o the arrow keys...using Fn to enable arrow keys is plain annoying.

Thanks for your reply, this is good info.

Also I should have mentioned what I'd use the headphones for: mostly for listening to and producing music. I don't game much and when I do the sound isn't too integral to the gameplay, so the positional aspect wouldn't be too important to me. I think also I would have a preference for closed-back since I would be using them in public occasionally and wouldn't want to disturb the people around me.

Edit: Actually if anyone knows some differences between the m20x, m30x, m40x, and m50x in terms of sound I am curious. Not a lot I could find online comparing them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 21 September 2016, 16:26:47
My left ear has been really sensitive lately, not sure if it's just me or if my left ciem got damaged somehow. Just randomly I'll get some really loose bass that I had never heard before in familiar songs. On some occasions it was from improperly inserting the monitor but I'm just a lil paranoid - only started happening recently.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Thu, 22 September 2016, 07:24:09
I decided to throw some HM5 pads on my Fidelio X1's. The primary reason is that whatever dye Philips used to color the pads actually stained my desk.  >:D After having left them overnight on my desk, I noticed some fuzzy black marks where I had left them. To begin with I didn't realize it was the pads causing the problem, I just thought it was from a magazine or something like that. A couple of days later the marks had multiplied, in the same area of the desk, and I realized that it could only be from the dye in the pads. Fortunately it didn't stain my skin.  :-X

But I guess it was a good trade-off as I find the HM5 pads much more soft and comfy. The bass is wild on these bad boys now!  :cool:

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Desktop/X1%2BHM5_1.jpg)

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Desktop/X1%2BHM5_2.jpg)

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Desktop/X1%2BHM5_3.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 22 September 2016, 20:51:58
My left ear has been really sensitive lately, not sure if it's just me or if my left ciem got damaged somehow. Just randomly I'll get some really loose bass that I had never heard before in familiar songs. On some occasions it was from improperly inserting the monitor but I'm just a lil paranoid - only started happening recently.

From your description of the sound pattern I will have to agree with you. Could also be the connection or cable and hopefully not the drivers. The only time I hear a different between my ears (anything more abnormal than usual of course) is when I'm sick. I sleep on my right side a lot and it causes my left ear to get clogged up.

@Lansky - those ear pads look SUPER comfy! Do they hurt the audio quality at all?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 22 September 2016, 22:31:49
Hmmm, I have the Fidelio X1 as well, I find the bass on it to be pretty decent, it doesn't overwhelms mids and treble though it doesn't sound bright/sparkly. Adding the HM5 would definitely boost bass, but wouldn't be too overpowering then?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Fri, 23 September 2016, 05:49:28
@Lansky - those ear pads look SUPER comfy! Do they hurt the audio quality at all?

They are indeed very comfortable. Very soft, much softer than a lot of leather/pleather pads I've tried on even high-end headphones. Besides a slight increase in bass, I haven't really noticed much of a difference in terms of sound.

Hmmm, I have the Fidelio X1 as well, I find the bass on it to be pretty decent, it doesn't overwhelms mids and treble though it doesn't sound bright/sparkly. Adding the HM5 would definitely boost bass, but wouldn't be too overpowering then?

I agree - and I was thinking the same thoughts before I installed them. It's definitely a bass-heavy headphone now. It might be on the verge of overpowering the rest of the spectrum. But it doesn't bother me too much as these are what I define as 'fun headphones' anyway. They're not really meant to be neutral.  ;D

I might try some other varieties of the HM5 pads in the future, maybe the hybrids or the full velour ones. Unfortunately there's no retailer in Denmark so it's always a bit of a hassle to purchase them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jjanssen1 on Fri, 23 September 2016, 07:25:19
Here are my households current headphones:

Headphones:
Sennheiser HD650
Sennheiser HD280 Pro
Audio-Technica ATH-ESW9A
Ultimate-Ears Super.Fi 5 Pro
Bang and Olufsen BeoPlay H6
Alesis DRP100

Headphone amp/s (that I'm aware of):
Talisman T-3H Midnight amplifier

-Joshua
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 23 September 2016, 12:18:31
Here are my households current headphones:

Headphones:
Sennheiser HD650
Sennheiser HD280 Pro
Audio-Technica ATH-ESW9A
Ultimate-Ears Super.Fi 5 Pro
Bang and Olufsen BeoPlay H6
Alesis DRP100

Headphone amp/s (that I'm aware of):
Talisman T-3H Midnight amplifier

-Joshua
If you like what you have, it'd be a great idea to NOT go in too deeply into this wallet draining hobby. :eek: I started out with the intention of getting two or three good headphones and a DAC (stack or combo) or two. Dunno how in the world I ended up with >10 cans and two DAC combo and a DAC stack.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 26 September 2016, 12:10:34
Just picked up some Beyerdynamic T70's for $60. Anybody know of some excellence ear pads I can get for them?

Found these but not sure http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/172349542357?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bmilcs on Mon, 26 September 2016, 17:34:12
Hey bmilcs looks like you did a great job on the Bottlehead Crack. Just curious - what headphone are you going to pair it with?

HD650's of course :D

I finished the Speedball yesterday. It's mighty impressive!!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bmilcs on Mon, 26 September 2016, 17:36:33
I can't imagine being able to afford anything that comes close to this level of audio quality. Plus the fun level is through the roof.

HD650, Speedball'ed Crack. MmMm. Can't wait to tinker further with the Bottlehead... add some new tubes and a new pot maybe :D. Anyone know any good methods of finishing wood?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 26 September 2016, 18:50:48
I can't imagine being able to afford anything that comes close to this level of audio quality. Plus the fun level is through the roof.

HD650, Speedball'ed Crack. MmMm. Can't wait to tinker further with the Bottlehead... add some new tubes and a new pot maybe :D. Anyone know any good methods of finishing wood?

Glow in the dark pigment mixed in epoxy and then inlayed into wood.

http://indulgd.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/glow-2.jpg

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Mon, 26 September 2016, 23:03:56
I can't imagine being able to afford anything that comes close to this level of audio quality. Plus the fun level is through the roof.

HD650, Speedball'ed Crack. MmMm. Can't wait to tinker further with the Bottlehead... add some new tubes and a new pot maybe :D. Anyone know any good methods of finishing wood?

Glow in the dark pigment mixed in epoxy and then inlayed into wood.

http://indulgd.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/glow-2.jpg

that looks a little too tacky for a bottlehead crack... when i think of tube amps a more classic, and elegant look would suit it more
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 26 September 2016, 23:05:03
I can't imagine being able to afford anything that comes close to this level of audio quality. Plus the fun level is through the roof.

HD650, Speedball'ed Crack. MmMm. Can't wait to tinker further with the Bottlehead... add some new tubes and a new pot maybe :D. Anyone know any good methods of finishing wood?

Glow in the dark pigment mixed in epoxy and then inlayed into wood.

http://indulgd.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/glow-2.jpg



lol i'm into it ^^





also helpppppppppppp i wnat a second pair of ciems "just in case"
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Tue, 27 September 2016, 05:06:28
I can't imagine being able to afford anything that comes close to this level of audio quality. Plus the fun level is through the roof.

HD650, Speedball'ed Crack. MmMm. Can't wait to tinker further with the Bottlehead... add some new tubes and a new pot maybe :D. Anyone know any good methods of finishing wood?

Glow in the dark pigment mixed in epoxy and then inlayed into wood.

http://indulgd.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/glow-2.jpg

that looks a little too tacky for a bottlehead crack... when i think of tube amps a more classic, and elegant look would suit it more

So I googled the Bottlehead Crack amp like I should have before and in all honesty I don't think there is anything extravagant you'll need to do for the finish. I prefer an epoxy or lacquer because it offers a lot of protection but as for color I would go with a darker sort of burnt brown color for the wood stain.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-qt-3X-Kona-Premium-Wood-Stain-Case-of-2-266161/203371903?cm_mmc=Shopping%7cTHD%7cG%7c0%7cG-BASE-PLA-D24-Paint%7c&gclid=Cj0KEQjwsai_BRC30KH347fjksoBEiQAoiaqsUkgD5xBllv_XHBSWYL9NEDy8O1jTi6iJvR32szZJeYaAvG88P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: slickmamba on Wed, 28 September 2016, 10:06:13
how do you guys justify having so many cans.  I have hd598, k7xx, thx00, beats(dont judge), plus IEMs.  I need to sell =/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 29 September 2016, 22:14:03
how do you guys justify having so many cans.  I have hd598, k7xx, thx00, beats(dont judge), plus IEMs.  I need to sell =/
No justification needed actually, just the sheer fun of having a few cans which you can choose from depending on mood. I mean, sometimes, I'm in the mood for some head banging bass (NOT basshead level though), I'd reach for my Denon AH-D7000/D2000, or DT990. Sometimes, I want a little laid back sound to relax to, I'd reach for my HEK or MrSpeakers Alpha Dog. When I'm into orchestral pieces, the HD800 is my 'go to' can, for chamber music, it'd be my K812 or HE560.....you get the idea.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Twinguin on Thu, 29 September 2016, 22:59:35
how do you guys justify having so many cans.  I have hd598, k7xx, thx00, beats(dont judge), plus IEMs.  I need to sell =/
Well, just another (expensive) hobby - just like the keyboards.  ;D (And we haven't even started on photography or cars yet.)

BTT, I am currently enjoying most my Ultrasone HiFi2200 (around-ear), and the really nice Triple.Fi 10 in-ears. (But there are about a dozen more in- and around-ears lingering around ...). The TF10 work excellently with the old iPod Nano 6th gen - that's the little square one!  :thumb:


Sigh, too many hobbies!  :cool:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Fri, 30 September 2016, 15:15:13
Harman is supposedly killing the AKG brand. RIP
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 30 September 2016, 23:31:45
got tj to make a new iem cable but need to order parts first so see u next year
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Grona on Mon, 03 October 2016, 13:35:22
Harman is supposedly killing the AKG brand. RIP

So sad by this. I might try to snag up a pair of K712 pros that I've been eyeing for a while.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 07 October 2016, 05:08:23
someone stop me from buying another ciem
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Fri, 07 October 2016, 05:33:03
don t do i T
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 08 October 2016, 08:16:09
Ok I won't yet, I have other things I need to get before then. Maybe I'll wait a year and a half before getting a new CIEM unless I find one I like used to get refit for a good price.

Gonna have the hardest time decided which flagship I want when it comes time :\
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: missalaire on Sat, 08 October 2016, 12:08:31
Ok I won't yet, I have other things I need to get before then. Maybe I'll wait a year and a half before getting a new CIEM unless I find one I like used to get refit for a good price.

Gonna have the hardest time decided which flagship I want when it comes time :\

I have the same problem. I want a new ciem, a bassy one this time for sure, but other things that I prioritize buying before and waiting for the best deal :<
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 08 October 2016, 12:14:50
Ok I won't yet, I have other things I need to get before then. Maybe I'll wait a year and a half before getting a new CIEM unless I find one I like used to get refit for a good price.

Gonna have the hardest time decided which flagship I want when it comes time :\

I have the same problem. I want a new ciem, a bassy one this time for sure, but other things that I prioritize buying before and waiting for the best deal :<

:((((((((

gimme ur old ones to refit :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PoisonKing on Sun, 09 October 2016, 07:39:54
I'm new to GH, here's my other hobby. A heavily modded Grado... well, the only original Grado part is the earpad ;D
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 12 October 2016, 08:59:01
**** it gonna make my own ciems
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Sat, 05 November 2016, 03:12:20
hd6xx hnngh... if only it was black
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: atarione on Sat, 05 November 2016, 14:02:01
I have a foundness for vintage audio gear and have acquired some nice stuff (imho) most notably a Sony ES stack : TA-N77ES/ TA-E77ESD/700ES/730ES/ SDP-777ES.

I am currently debating if to jump on the HD6XX on massdrop which will be $199 ... when it goes live on the 8th.    Mostly at home I use beyerdynamic DT880 Premium 250Ohms headphones..    additionally I own DT770 Pro 80's, ATH-M50 (diy removable cable mod) / ATH-M50X, Sony MDR-V6 and I have a few more laying about Pioneer SE-A1000..etc.

(http://i1330.photobucket.com/albums/w574/atarione/dt880_zpsumfel5gt.jpg)
(http://i1330.photobucket.com/albums/w574/atarione/modM50_zpsr2azvuph.jpg)
(http://i1330.photobucket.com/albums/w574/atarione/fitzTAN77ES_zpsc6cnmixr.jpg)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Sat, 05 November 2016, 21:34:24
I have a foundness for vintage audio gear and have acquired some nice stuff (imho) most notably a Sony ES stack : TA-N77ES/ TA-E77ESD/700ES/730ES/ SDP-777ES.

I am currently debating if to jump on the HD6XX on massdrop which will be $199 ... when it goes live on the 8th.    Mostly at home I use beyerdynamic DT880 Premium 250Ohms headphones..    additionally I own DT770 Pro 80's, ATH-M50 (diy removable cable mod) / ATH-M50X, Sony MDR-V6 and I have a few more laying about Pioneer SE-A1000..etc.

Show Image
(http://i1330.photobucket.com/albums/w574/atarione/dt880_zpsumfel5gt.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i1330.photobucket.com/albums/w574/atarione/modM50_zpsr2azvuph.jpg)

Show Image
(http://i1330.photobucket.com/albums/w574/atarione/fitzTAN77ES_zpsc6cnmixr.jpg)


the 650s are great... definitely an upgrade from the m50x, haven't tried the dt880/770 so I can't speak for them but at $200 it's the best at its price
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kiwi99 on Sun, 06 November 2016, 11:49:20
I know its not headphones, but I made a quick album of restoring my desktop speakers housing , thought some of you might appreciate it :) http://imgur.com/a/G8DLQ
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Sun, 13 November 2016, 06:32:16
I'm starting to look for Christmas presents already and it means I find a bunch of stuff I want to get too. So I ordered some KZ ATR IEM's to start with. Will see what's up with those.

Recently been going back to my old music library I've collected over the years and that means I would like to get a DAP. I asked around and my best friend had a iPod 5.5G he's not using. Need to change the display (so lines over it) and headphone jack (right ear doesn't have sound) and thinking about ordering an iFlash for some SD card action instead of a physical hard drive.

(http://i.imgur.com/aAQ46db.jpg)

Maybe someone can aid me with some new music manager? Previously used Foobar as a player/manager. Library needs some cleaning. Found beets (http://beets.io/) that looks promising. And have anyone tried/used headphones (https://github.com/rembo10/headphones)?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Tue, 15 November 2016, 08:08:02
While I'm on a headphone buying hiatus, I was in another forum recommending some cheap China made IEM's I'd read about (TFZ Series 1/2/3, Knowledge Zenith aka KZ, etc) when it struck me that I'm recommending stuff that I'd had no experience with. Well, I decided that it was time to muck around with IEM's, and cheap ones at that! I'd gone out to grab two pairs from the KZ Acoustics range - ZS3 and ED12. Though I'm having a proper seal issue with the ZS3 with the supplied ear tips (will remedy this, and improve on the ED12 by getting Comply tips), the KZ ED12 is proving to be quite true of what I'm hearing in the various forums here in my neck of the woods. They do sound good! Initial impression of the ED12: Nice almost balanced sound with a hint of forward mids and a touch bass boost (tight and NOT at all loose), it's warm sounding to me....will do further listening on my HM901s with Discrete Amp card.
More
Show Image
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/china%20iem2_zpsl1ivdvrj.jpg)

PadawanGeek, how's your experience with KZ IEMs? And budget IEMs all together? Starting to get in budget audiophile stuff. Been checking Head-Fi for suggestions and they haven't let me down but I trust GH audiophiles a bit more. :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 16 November 2016, 17:00:54
got a new cable, iems sound bassier now, intersting..

need a new DAP now
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 16 November 2016, 17:17:37
got a new cable, iems sound bassier now, intersting..

need a new DAP now

it's all in ur head.. hahahahahaha.....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 16 November 2016, 17:48:38
i mean i abx'd it just now it's not like it's a subtle difference...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 16 November 2016, 18:32:50
i mean i abx'd it just now it's not like it's a subtle difference...

The main problem is..

How to establish a reference point..

If you've heard no Proper demonstration of what sounded right..

Comparison and rankings could not be made.


They're all equivalently good whispers of what MAY be the right sound..



Which is why those who invest in high end audiophile gear  are daft people..



Especially the middle of the road people..   
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 16 November 2016, 18:46:31
i mean i abx'd it just now it's not like it's a subtle difference...

The main problem is..

How to establish a reference point..

If you've heard no Proper demonstration of what sounded right..

Comparison and rankings could not be made.


They're all equivalently good whispers of what MAY be the right sound..



Which is why those who invest in high end audiophile gear  are daft people..



Especially the middle of the road people..   

this isn't about what sounds right, this is just stock cable = less bass, new cable = more bass. 3.5mm y splitter, 1 cable for one ear, another cable for the other ear. very clear noticeable difference. whether one is "better" than the other or not, I don't really care. was just a simple observation
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 16 November 2016, 19:19:53
i mean i abx'd it just now it's not like it's a subtle difference...

The main problem is..

How to establish a reference point..

If you've heard no Proper demonstration of what sounded right..

Comparison and rankings could not be made.


They're all equivalently good whispers of what MAY be the right sound..



Which is why those who invest in high end audiophile gear  are daft people..



Especially the middle of the road people..   

this isn't about what sounds right, this is just stock cable = less bass, new cable = more bass. 3.5mm y splitter, 1 cable for one ear, another cable for the other ear. very clear noticeable difference. whether one is "better" than the other or not, I don't really care. was just a simple observation

Hahaha.

Don't take it personally Sifo,

No judgement here..

I just don't want the   Warm and Transparent  conartists to take foothold against real engineering .
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 22 November 2016, 06:13:50
Knew this moratorium on headphone purchases wouldn't last, saw a great deal for an Audio Technica ATH-R70x and couldn't resist it. Here's a pic of it with its 'cousins'. WIll give my impressions of it later, running it on my Fostex HP-A4, will move to my Oppo HA-1 or Gustard X12/H10 stack over the weekends.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/AT%2001_zpste6zwvwv.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Diokhan on Tue, 22 November 2016, 06:18:00
Got myself a t50rp mk3.
Still deciding on how I'm going to mod it.
Liking it so far out of the box.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Tue, 22 November 2016, 06:21:57
Got myself a t50rp mk3.
Still deciding on how I'm going to mod it.
Liking it so far out of the box.

Just checked them out. Nice. Using them at home or you have a portable setup on you?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Diokhan on Tue, 22 November 2016, 06:42:52
Got myself a t50rp mk3.
Still deciding on how I'm going to mod it.
Liking it so far out of the box.

Just checked them out. Nice. Using them at home or you have a portable setup on you?

Using em for both at the moment.
For work with a dacport slim and at home with a grace desing m9xx.

Small ear pads hurt my ears, when I listen longer than 3-4 hours..
So i'm looking to replace them first.
But they say if you make the distance from your ears bigger the sound gets worse.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kiwi99 on Tue, 22 November 2016, 15:16:40
Got myself a t50rp mk3.
Still deciding on how I'm going to mod it.
Liking it so far out of the box.

Just checked them out. Nice. Using them at home or you have a portable setup on you?

Using em for both at the moment.
For work with a dacport slim and at home with a grace desing m9xx.

Small ear pads hurt my ears, when I listen longer than 3-4 hours..
So i'm looking to replace them first.
But they say if you make the distance from your ears bigger the sound gets worse.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B005OM06RG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought these and I am loving them not too much added distance, soft, nice padding, and also makes them a bit more open compared to the leather pads which I think makes them sound better.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YoshiCaps on Wed, 23 November 2016, 18:53:05
It's like I'm on 4chan.
If it was 4chan we'd all be crouched under beds on laptops looking at and postinc horrific darknet things.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: YoshiCaps on Wed, 23 November 2016, 22:32:44
ik this sounds cheap but I have these-

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41KZKcyuSKL.jpg)

Called alihen c8.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 23 November 2016, 22:35:45
Those LCD 4's seem so damn sexy, that payment plan Audede offers looks mighty tempting.
(http://img11.hostingpics.net/pics/29628620150929014804.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Diokhan on Thu, 24 November 2016, 02:21:38
Got myself a t50rp mk3.
Still deciding on how I'm going to mod it.
Liking it so far out of the box.

Just checked them out. Nice. Using them at home or you have a portable setup on you?

Using em for both at the moment.
For work with a dacport slim and at home with a grace desing m9xx.

Small ear pads hurt my ears, when I listen longer than 3-4 hours..
So i'm looking to replace them first.
But they say if you make the distance from your ears bigger the sound gets worse.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B005OM06RG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought these and I am loving them not too much added distance, soft, nice padding, and also makes them a bit more open compared to the leather pads which I think makes them sound better.

Ended up getting the brainwav pads.
Sounds a lot better right away, it really makes it sound more open indeed.
It was a pain getting them on tho haha.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: captsis on Mon, 28 November 2016, 20:44:11
Got myself a t50rp mk3.
Still deciding on how I'm going to mod it.
Liking it so far out of the box.

Just checked them out. Nice. Using them at home or you have a portable setup on you?

Using em for both at the moment.
For work with a dacport slim and at home with a grace desing m9xx.

Small ear pads hurt my ears, when I listen longer than 3-4 hours..
So i'm looking to replace them first.
But they say if you make the distance from your ears bigger the sound gets worse.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B005OM06RG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought these and I am loving them not too much added distance, soft, nice padding, and also makes them a bit more open compared to the leather pads which I think makes them sound better.

Ended up getting the brainwav pads.
Sounds a lot better right away, it really makes it sound more open indeed.
It was a pain getting them on tho haha.

Do pads really affect the sound that much?

unrelated, could I get by using DT 770 250Ohms with no amp? Im looking at Schiit Magni if I do end up getting an amp and these cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ygor on Mon, 28 November 2016, 20:50:31
I've got some modified DT-770s, I'd definitely pair it with an amp... Granted your source is good. No use in amplifying a poor source. Mine are running Modi Multibit > Vali 2 with a Gold Lion tube, they sound wonderful. I'd like to try a SS amp though. It has been a while since they were fed through one, but I remember it being nice. You can't go wrong with the Magni 2. Someone on the forums here was selling an Asgard 2 for like 140 USD, crazy deal. Might wanna dig through there and find if it's still available.

Also, the Alpha Pads on the DT-770 is a crazy good pairing. They're expensive af, but they're really, really great.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ygor on Mon, 28 November 2016, 20:54:14
Here's a link to the Asgard 2 ad on here:
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=85863.0

If you're in the market for an amp, I'd snatch that sucker up. I'm trying to stop myself from buying it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: captsis on Mon, 28 November 2016, 20:54:48
I've got some modified DT-770s, I'd definitely pair it with an amp... Granted your source is good. No use in amplifying a poor source. Mine are running Modi Multibit > Vali 2 with a Gold Lion tube, they sound wonderful. I'd like to try a SS amp though. It has been a while since they were fed through one, but I remember it being nice. You can't go wrong with the Magni 2. Someone on the forums here was selling an Asgard 2 for like 140 USD, crazy deal. Might wanna dig through there and find if it's still available.

Also, the Alpha Pads on the DT-770 is a crazy good pairing. They're expensive af, but they're really, really great.


My whole library except for a few bootleg live shows are all FLAC. lowest is like 290Kbps. and LAMB LEATHER?! really? why not sheep leather :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: captsis on Mon, 28 November 2016, 20:58:14
Here's a link to the Asgard 2 ad on here:
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=85863.0

If you're in the market for an amp, I'd snatch that sucker up. I'm trying to stop myself from buying it.

Ill leave that one to you. As my quote says, shipping that to HI would be ridiculous.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ygor on Mon, 28 November 2016, 20:59:12
and LAMB LEATHER?! really? why not sheep leather :/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: captsis on Mon, 28 November 2016, 21:01:31
and LAMB LEATHER?! really? why not sheep leather :/

Im just going to ignore that...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ygor on Mon, 28 November 2016, 21:06:11
Ill leave that one to you. As my quote says, shipping that to HI would be ridiculous.

Not really... ! Domestic shipping would be less than 25 dollars (and that's for Priority mail). AFAIK that amp is in Texas.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: captsis on Mon, 28 November 2016, 21:16:29
Ill leave that one to you. As my quote says, shipping that to HI would be ridiculous.

Not really... ! Domestic shipping would be less than 25 dollars (and that's for Priority mail). AFAIK that amp is in Texas.
according to usps and amazon's dimensions, the shipping from austin to HI would be $30.81. Too expensive for me. The amp is $40 more expensive than the Magni 2 also. The deals all yours ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ygor on Mon, 28 November 2016, 21:24:06
I'd be so sad if I couldn't unload the Asgard 2 110 USD under retail with a sad little OBO marker next to it. Remind me to never buy another amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 29 November 2016, 02:44:48
I'd consider the V20 an audio related purchase (with Smartphone benefits) as it's just about the best sound I've heard coming from a cellphone. I'd put it above my Fiio X3 II (thus making it redundant) in SQ. Some have said it performs like a mid tier DAP, clean and clear and transparent. Plug in a high impedance headphone, and it switches to a more powerful sound (apparently, the headphone jack detects a high impedance can - =/> 50 Ohm - connected to it and will power the can accordingly). I tired my ATH-R70x (98dB sensitivity, 470 Ohm) and the phone powered it with authority with room to spare. Even heard of some trying their Audeze LCD's on the V20 and coming away pleased with what they hear. Heck, I'm now wondering what to do with my HiFiMan HM901s and Fiio X3 II......that's how good the phone sounds to me. :thumb:
(https://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/LG%20V20_zpsionjr8gt.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Tue, 29 November 2016, 03:12:42
I'd consider the V20 an audio related purchase (with Smartphone benefits) as it's just about the best sound I've heard coming from a cellphone. I'd put it above my Fiio X3 II (thus making it redundant) in SQ. Some have said it performs like a mid tier DAP, clean and clear and transparent. Plug in a high impedance headphone, and it switches to a more powerful sound (apparently, the headphone jack detects a high impedance can - =/> 50 Ohm - connected to it and will power the can accordingly). I tired my ATH-R70x (98dB sensitivity, 470 Ohm) and the phone powered it with authority with room to spare. Even heard of some trying their Audeze LCD's on the V20 and coming away pleased with what they hear. Heck, I'm now wondering what to do with my HiFiMan HM901s and Fiio X3 II......that's how good the phone sounds to me. :thumb:
Show Image
(https://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/LG%20V20_zpsionjr8gt.jpg)


Nice. Sounds like a very promising phone if I ever think about changing my LG G2. But some people I know has a Nexus 6P and they say that everything is super nice except that it's a shovel. How you're getting along with it's shear size? And maybe you know how would V20 compare to a G5 with B&O module? Can't really find a comparison between V20 and G5+B&O module.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lansky on Wed, 30 November 2016, 14:23:23
I recently picked up a pair of T50RP MK3's as well. I'm currently using the Brainwavz hybrid pads on them and they're quite nice.

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21012705/Desktop/T50RP%20MK3.jpg)

I ordered the Mayflower V1 kit today and the Shure HPAEC1540 alcantara pads as well. Excited to see how big of a difference there is between the pads and pre/post modding.  :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 30 November 2016, 23:41:28
Nice. Sounds like a very promising phone if I ever think about changing my LG G2. But some people I know has a Nexus 6P and they say that everything is super nice except that it's a shovel. How you're getting along with it's shear size? And maybe you know how would V20 compare to a G5 with B&O module? Can't really find a comparison between V20 and G5+B&O module.
I'm in Asia, so mine's the one with the B&O moniker, so I guess it's been tuned by B&O. As for size, I've always been dealing with phones that are a little on the large side, like my old Note 3 and LG G Pro 2 (both 5.7" screen size), compromised a little with the Xperia Z5 Premium at 5.5" and now back to 5.7" again with the V20.....so, size's not an issue with me. Been trying out a couple of cans on it, it sounds pretty good with good clarity, nice tight bass....no distortion at higher volumes. I tried it with my ATH-R70x (470 ohm, 98 dB sensitivity) and my modded T50RP (50 ohm, 98 dB) and I could get to loud enough volume with room to spare.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/DSC_0318_zpst8kwil6z.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Wed, 07 December 2016, 14:42:50
(http://i.imgur.com/oZlBM5bl.jpg)

KZ ATR

Got these from the 11.11 sale on AliExpress. Four dollars but well, I'm really really impressed. Been listening to them for about half hour and they're probably the best sounding audio equipment I've used for that kind of price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kinglukas38 on Wed, 07 December 2016, 15:57:24
figured I'd post my humble setup here :)

(http://i.imgur.com/Q5NIhS4.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 08 December 2016, 00:20:11
I keep thinking about getting back in this, but the only headphones I want to upgrade into are the elears...

Well, maybe PM3 or meze 99 classics. But that would take away from shoes and guns and I listen to music more in the car again and I need to drop another $1000ish on parts for that build out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: E3E on Mon, 19 December 2016, 02:37:42
Blorp
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: sems on Mon, 19 December 2016, 04:44:13
No HD25 love here? It's the most comfortable on ear available right now with Velour pads. Great isolation. Sounds awesome, too. If you are looking for a light & sturdy headphone with little compromise in sound department, you should definitely try one.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Mon, 19 December 2016, 11:23:43
HD25, hmm?

(https://i.imgur.com/48kNNIs.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 19 December 2016, 16:12:46
I keep thinking about getting back in this, but the only headphones I want to upgrade into are the elears...

Well, maybe PM3 or meze 99 classics. But that would take away from shoes and guns and I listen to music more in the car again and I need to drop another $1000ish on parts for that build out.

more ciems
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Mavarina on Tue, 20 December 2016, 09:52:56
Currently have the hd650 w/ the ifi idsd micro DAC and the Astell&Kern Angie II IEM. Looking to upgrade to Audeze headphones soon, but they're quite heavy ;D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: xZ3ROx on Tue, 20 December 2016, 21:38:33
Currently have the Fender FAX7 in ears on my iPhone 7 and that stupid adapter.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dmbldrk on Wed, 21 December 2016, 08:19:06
Currently have Sennheiser hd558s. Sound quality is pretty decent. A little light on the bass though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Thu, 22 December 2016, 15:35:03
Recently upgraded a few things. Now running the HD700's, upgraded the DAC to a Schiit Modi 2 Uber (may go for the Bifrost or Jotunheim in the future), and just picked up the Asgard 2. The Asgard 2 made a considerable difference over the Magni 2 I had before. Bass is a bit stronger and definitely can hit faster.

Saving up for the RBH SV-61R's right now.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: atarione on Sat, 24 December 2016, 19:16:54
Got me this for xmas.. and some NOS USA made tubes.. currently RCA 6SN7GT and GE 6AS7GA ..quite liking it.   I have been using it as a preamp for my Sony TA-N77ES / JBL L1's quite frequently..right now actually.


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: happylacquer on Sat, 24 December 2016, 21:29:40
Any STAX fans here? I really just use my Portapros or earbuds like VE Monk most often.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Sat, 24 December 2016, 23:26:07
Any STAX fans here? I really just use my Portapros or earbuds like VE Monk most often.

i had an audition of the stax sr-009 earlier this year, incredibly detailed and bright sound, but i dont think ill ever be able to afford an electrostat setup :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: classiccarguy92 on Thu, 29 December 2016, 00:21:35
I use my Graddo sr80 e's by far the best headphones I've ever used.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: DALExSNAIL on Thu, 29 December 2016, 14:51:30
It's like I'm on 4chan.
If it was 4chan we'd all be crouched under beds on laptops looking at and postinc horrific darknet things.

4chan not that hardcore tbh
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Thu, 29 December 2016, 17:50:44
PSB M4U 4 shipped out yesterday. Got them for 220aud which is almost half price here in australia, heard lots of good things about them on head-fi and other review sites but most of the time I don't really dig what head-fi loves to recommend.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Tue, 03 January 2017, 00:58:10
psb m4u 4s arrived, they are everything head-fi made them out to be. great sounding IEMs for the price i spent, and a soundstage which makes you feel like you're wearing over ears sometimes. isolation and fit are also very nice, something i found was that after i squeezed in the IEMs into my ear canals, i had to slightly shift them back for an airier sound with wider soundstage and less bloated bass. not sure if that goes for all IEMs or if these are a special sound. I'm using comply foam tips btw.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: happylacquer on Thu, 12 January 2017, 00:01:56
I am a fan of the JVC SZ2000. My only on ears are the Portapros. I have had hundreds of headphones in my life but these are the only full size ones I have not sold. Aside from these i just have some iem and earbud.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 12 January 2017, 16:08:20
Got a pair of Focal Sphears today for super cheap on amazon finally.

Totally worth it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 13 January 2017, 06:24:06
Got a pair of Focal Sphears today for super cheap on amazon finally.

Totally worth it.

18 driver CIEM or go home
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: OfTheWild on Tue, 17 January 2017, 20:48:05
Picked up those hifiman he350 cans from massdrop... they arent comfortable for me but otherwise they sound ok. I think i'll sell em though and pick up something else to replace my seinnheiser hd85s.
(https://massdrop-s3.imgix.net/product-images/massdrop-x-hifiman-he-350/MD-17347_20160425222258_cb5ba75e2aa13f59.jpg)

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eksuen on Wed, 18 January 2017, 02:06:06
Picked up those hifiman he350 cans from massdrop... they arent comfortable for me but otherwise they sound ok. I think i'll sell em though and pick up something else to replace my seinnheiser hd85s.
Show Image
(https://massdrop-s3.imgix.net/product-images/massdrop-x-hifiman-he-350/MD-17347_20160425222258_cb5ba75e2aa13f59.jpg)


Changing the pads can improve the comfort dramatically, but it'll also change the sound signature. On top of the discomfort, I found them to be a tad shrill and lacking in bass in stock form. I put Dekoni memory foam pads on my HE-350 and I am very pleased with the result.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 18 January 2017, 07:44:49
too bad they're not planar...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: happylacquer on Wed, 18 January 2017, 15:14:07
too bad they're not planar...

thats why i didnt get them!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: atarione on Sun, 22 January 2017, 01:31:05
I impulse ordered these from Japan... JVC HA-SR85-B ... I like that they look like nothing other people own.. paid about $70 for them shipped pretty well made for $70 ... sound good.. but bass is boosted as I expected when ordering so if you are wanting neutral headphones keep on going...

these aren't really sold in america and I don't think they have been engineered with my great big American noggin in mind.. been stretching them out over a box.. better now.. clamped WAAAY too much at first..

[attachimg=1]

wearing them on said great big American noggin'
[attachimg=2]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Grona on Mon, 23 January 2017, 12:00:57
Recently picked up a Hifiman he400i with a schiit magni and modi 2 uber, it's been absolutely fantastic.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: bmmcwhirt on Mon, 23 January 2017, 12:44:52
I have a pair of Mt Dew branded V-Moda Crossfade LP2. I knew I wanted them but never had the money and when the Baja Blast promotion was going on I played the crap our of their mobile game to be able to get them. They are extremely good but far from the best. I have the extra thick  cushions on them and I have the mic boom so I can use it for gaming. I like them better than my Sony MDR-7506 studio monitors. They have a bit more dynamic sound and a wider response.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: OfTheWild on Mon, 23 January 2017, 12:50:18
Picked up those hifiman he350 cans from massdrop... they arent comfortable for me but otherwise they sound ok. I think i'll sell em though and pick up something else to replace my seinnheiser hd85s.
Show Image
(https://massdrop-s3.imgix.net/product-images/massdrop-x-hifiman-he-350/MD-17347_20160425222258_cb5ba75e2aa13f59.jpg)


Changing the pads can improve the comfort dramatically, but it'll also change the sound signature. On top of the discomfort, I found them to be a tad shrill and lacking in bass in stock form. I put Dekoni memory foam pads on my HE-350 and I am very pleased with the result.

Thanks i'll look in to getting those new pads. Its really just under the ear and jaw junction thats killing me from these rock hard pads that came with it. That reminds me i want to order the XL pads for my v-moda 100's that are my carry around cans.

I will say that the highs are mellowing out a bit after a couple hundred hours of use. I'm not sure if its just me getting used to them or they're actually softening up but i've left my itunes playing for a week straight through the headphones.

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eksuen on Mon, 23 January 2017, 12:53:00
Picked up those hifiman he350 cans from massdrop... they arent comfortable for me but otherwise they sound ok. I think i'll sell em though and pick up something else to replace my seinnheiser hd85s.
Show Image
(https://massdrop-s3.imgix.net/product-images/massdrop-x-hifiman-he-350/MD-17347_20160425222258_cb5ba75e2aa13f59.jpg)


Changing the pads can improve the comfort dramatically, but it'll also change the sound signature. On top of the discomfort, I found them to be a tad shrill and lacking in bass in stock form. I put Dekoni memory foam pads on my HE-350 and I am very pleased with the result.

Thanks i'll look in to getting those new pads. Its really just under the ear and jaw junction thats killing me from these rock hard pads that came with it. That reminds me i want to order the XL pads for my v-moda 100's that are my carry around cans.

I will say that the highs are mellowing out a bit after a couple hundred hours of use. I'm not sure if its just me getting used to them or they're actually softening up but i've left my itunes playing for a week straight through the headphones.

Ugh, yes, the stock pads were rock hard and coupled with the high clamping force, made the cans really uncomfortable. I ended up putting the HE-350 pads on my DT990s and I am also pleased with the results there as I didn't really care for the stock pads on those either.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dgneo on Mon, 23 January 2017, 14:18:55
Just snagged a pair of ZMF Classics for quite a bargain. Really looking forward to them, now I need to sell off my old cans!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: atarione on Tue, 24 January 2017, 19:17:24
cable modded (removable) Sony MDR-V6's ...finally got off my butt and made my dream of a portable friendly V6 a reality..

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lord of Narwhals on Fri, 27 January 2017, 17:59:15
My Sennheiser HD6XX (Massdrop version of the HD650) arrived about a month ago.
They sound much more detailed than my old QPad QH-85 (essentially HyperX Cloud Pro but open back).
Very happy with this purchase, I love the openness of them.
(http://i.imgur.com/tuQpeWp.jpg)
Old vs new
(http://i.imgur.com/7FqMtoH.jpg)
Got a ModMic 5 for them
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: happylacquer on Wed, 08 February 2017, 17:47:23
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-DIY-MP3-V2-Professional-Lossless-Music-MP3-HiFi-Music-Player-Support-32GB-TF-Card-Expansion/32727723202.html

4w RMS output, 16v power supply, swappable opamp and mp3 player too? i'll take it =)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: captsis on Tue, 14 February 2017, 02:10:57
Anyone know some good mods for dt770 pros (250)? paired with a schiit magni.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Tue, 14 February 2017, 13:04:26
Anyone know some good mods for dt770 pros (250)? paired with a schiit magni.

If you are feeling adventurous you can do the cable mod to make them detachable.

http://www.head-fi.org/t/643648/beyer-dt770-pro-80-detachable-cable-mod (not my thread)

Other than that the only thing you could do is change out the stock pads.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Slash Emperor on Tue, 14 February 2017, 13:20:44
Just snagged a pair of ZMF Classics for quite a bargain. Really looking forward to them, now I need to sell off my old cans!

Absolutely loving my ZMFs. I got the Vibro Mk II through Massdrop.

It's been a painful wait for the Atticus and Eikon, but I'm very excited for them.

I'd consider the V20 an audio related purchase (with Smartphone benefits) as it's just about the best sound I've heard coming from a cellphone. I'd put it above my Fiio X3 II (thus making it redundant) in SQ. Some have said it performs like a mid tier DAP, clean and clear and transparent. Plug in a high impedance headphone, and it switches to a more powerful sound (apparently, the headphone jack detects a high impedance can - =/> 50 Ohm - connected to it and will power the can accordingly). I tired my ATH-R70x (98dB sensitivity, 470 Ohm) and the phone powered it with authority with room to spare. Even heard of some trying their Audeze LCD's on the V20 and coming away pleased with what they hear. Heck, I'm now wondering what to do with my HiFiMan HM901s and Fiio X3 II......that's how good the phone sounds to me. :thumb:
Show Image
(https://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/LG%20V20_zpsionjr8gt.jpg)


Man, I'm awful. Despite having my V20 since November, I just haven't tried using any of my cans on it yet to take advantage of the audio-focus it has. Probably comes from never using my phone as my primary DAP and not having a good travel case for anything buy my Crossfade LPs. Probably going to give it a go tonight.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: happylacquer on Wed, 15 February 2017, 15:46:46
Just snagged a pair of ZMF Classics for quite a bargain. Really looking forward to them, now I need to sell off my old cans!

Absolutely loving my ZMFs. I got the Vibro Mk II through Massdrop.

It's been a painful wait for the Atticus and Eikon, but I'm very excited for them.

I'd consider the V20 an audio related purchase (with Smartphone benefits) as it's just about the best sound I've heard coming from a cellphone. I'd put it above my Fiio X3 II (thus making it redundant) in SQ. Some have said it performs like a mid tier DAP, clean and clear and transparent. Plug in a high impedance headphone, and it switches to a more powerful sound (apparently, the headphone jack detects a high impedance can - =/> 50 Ohm - connected to it and will power the can accordingly). I tired my ATH-R70x (98dB sensitivity, 470 Ohm) and the phone powered it with authority with room to spare. Even heard of some trying their Audeze LCD's on the V20 and coming away pleased with what they hear. Heck, I'm now wondering what to do with my HiFiMan HM901s and Fiio X3 II......that's how good the phone sounds to me. :thumb:
Show Image
(https://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w424/mikeysg64/LG%20V20_zpsionjr8gt.jpg)


Man, I'm awful. Despite having my V20 since November, I just haven't tried using any of my cans on it yet to take advantage of the audio-focus it has. Probably comes from never using my phone as my primary DAP and not having a good travel case for anything buy my Crossfade LPs. Probably going to give it a go tonight.

Hey fellow Boston GH'er, I have a v10 and my gf has the V20. The V20 is slight better if you like an airy detailed presentation and V10 has a bit more "oomph" to it. Still, V10 was so good I sold all my DAPs up to about $150 (more expensive ones sounded preferable to the V10)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Thu, 16 February 2017, 11:29:49
I need a new pair of headphones to use at work.  Currently I use the ATH-M50 driven by a Little Dot MkIII, which are perfectly adequate for commuter headphones, but a bit flat in overall sound quality.  Any recommendations for over-ear closed-back headphones in the sub-$250 range? 

Looking for relatively normal frequency response, I really don't like high or low-end boost.  I have a pair of Mad Dogs I use at home, and Sennheiser HD598, which would be perfect except they're open-backed. 

Suggestions?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 16 February 2017, 13:27:14
I need a new pair of headphones to use at work.  Currently I use the ATH-M50 driven by a Little Dot MkIII, which are perfectly adequate for commuter headphones, but a bit flat in overall sound quality.  Any recommendations for over-ear closed-back headphones in the sub-$250 range? 

Looking for relatively normal frequency response, I really don't like high or low-end boost.  I have a pair of Mad Dogs I use at home, and Sennheiser HD598, which would be perfect except they're open-backed. 

Suggestions?

https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-598-Cs-Headphone/dp/B01JP436TS
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: happylacquer on Thu, 16 February 2017, 14:56:07
I need a new pair of headphones to use at work.  Currently I use the ATH-M50 driven by a Little Dot MkIII, which are perfectly adequate for commuter headphones, but a bit flat in overall sound quality.  Any recommendations for over-ear closed-back headphones in the sub-$250 range? 

Looking for relatively normal frequency response, I really don't like high or low-end boost.  I have a pair of Mad Dogs I use at home, and Sennheiser HD598, which would be perfect except they're open-backed. 

Suggestions?

You're gonna laugh but get some VE Monks. The $5 earbud, yup. Run em out of your little dot. I'm not joking. Earbuds have come a long long way my man.

Good closed back with flat FR,huh? The Technics DJ1250 can take up to 3mW of power and has an almost ruler flat FR. They are great and you can do anything with them with EQ. insanely honest and versatile.

Guess I wont suggest JVC SZ1000 if you want no low end....

Sony MDR CD900ST are also phenomenal btw. That is a japan market only Sony though. this ain't anything like the MDR V6 you may know.

I personally like Sennheiser HD25 which Superlux makes a clone of that is almost as good. But it might be too forward mids for you...

Have you considered the B&W closed backs?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tarzan on Thu, 16 February 2017, 15:40:02
You're gonna laugh but get some VE Monks. The $5 earbud, yup. Run em out of your little dot. I'm not joking. Earbuds have come a long long way my man.

Good closed back with flat FR,huh? The Technics DJ1250 can take up to 3mW of power and has an almost ruler flat FR. They are great and you can do anything with them with EQ. insanely honest and versatile.

Guess I wont suggest JVC SZ1000 if you want no low end....

Sony MDR CD900ST are also phenomenal btw. That is a japan market only Sony though. this ain't anything like the MDR V6 you may know.

I personally like Sennheiser HD25 which Superlux makes a clone of that is almost as good. But it might be too forward mids for you...

Have you considered the B&W closed backs?

https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-598-Cs-Headphone/dp/B01JP436TS

Thanks for the suggestions!  The Sony MDR CD900ST looks really nice, and I didn't even know Sennheiser made a closed-back version of the 598!  Definitely two I'm going to evaluate!

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 18 February 2017, 12:50:44
god damn TJ got me wanting a jotunheim
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: happylacquer on Sat, 18 February 2017, 17:23:08
god damn TJ got me wanting a jotunheim

Bro unless you need a balanced amp - which you could get a better one separately - there are a ton of other DAC using the AK4490 that sound just as good. I mean schiit even makes one that is under 100 bucks. then you could spend the other 200ish on a dedicated balanced amp that kicks the jotunheims butt.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Sun, 19 February 2017, 08:11:35
Have any of you guys tried changing the cable on akg 701s. The web's full of tutorials but for some reason the cup that I'm supposed to remove is glued on or some ****, already scratched it to **** but it just won't budge.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: happylacquer on Thu, 23 February 2017, 18:56:40
Have any of you guys tried changing the cable on akg 701s. The web's full of tutorials but for some reason the cup that I'm supposed to remove is glued on or some ****, already scratched it to **** but it just won't budge.

Yeah blast that **** with a heat gun, there is glue for sure.

I just dropped 355 dollars on some Rose cappuccino mk2 IEMs, 2 dynamic and 2 balanced armatures. They sound crazy.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: yuppie on Tue, 28 February 2017, 07:07:19
I like my Massdrop TH-X00's and paired with the ifi iDSD-Micro... legit.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: gallowgeek on Tue, 28 February 2017, 11:55:44
I currently use the Kingston HyperX Cloud Revolver for both work and gaming.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Thu, 16 March 2017, 15:36:20
Have any of you guys tried changing the cable on akg 701s. The web's full of tutorials but for some reason the cup that I'm supposed to remove is glued on or some ****, already scratched it to **** but it just won't budge.

Yeah blast that **** with a heat gun, there is glue for sure.

I just dropped 355 dollars on some Rose cappuccino mk2 IEMs, 2 dynamic and 2 balanced armatures. They sound crazy.

Hmm gotta try that. I already got myself a pair of k712s but I still want to fix the 701s since I already have a new cable and pads for it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: m3ll3n on Mon, 27 March 2017, 17:34:17
modded t-50rp's here, they sound oh so good  :thumb:
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: northpark on Mon, 03 April 2017, 00:51:26
I'm wondering if somewhere in these 90 pages, someone has complained about their ear cartilage being irreparably damaged by Grado's. Checking in if it hasn't been said yet...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kekman on Mon, 03 April 2017, 07:28:29
I'm wondering if somewhere in these 90 pages, someone has complained about their ear cartilage being irreparably damaged by Grado's. Checking in if it hasn't been said yet...

not grado but my ears have been ringing a lot more since i bought dt990s lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: northpark on Mon, 03 April 2017, 08:02:41
I'm wondering if somewhere in these 90 pages, someone has complained about their ear cartilage being irreparably damaged by Grado's. Checking in if it hasn't been said yet...

not grado but my ears have been ringing a lot more since i bought dt990s lol

Friend of mine down south has those and absolutely loves them!  You're in good company. 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Jhors2 on Sat, 08 April 2017, 17:29:23
Currently using HD598s as my gaming headphones, they are really good for positional audio.

My "audiophile" setup is:
Audeze LCD-X
Woo Audio WA22 Amp
Schiit Yggdrasil DAC
All Wywires platinum/silver interconnects.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iLLucionist on Sat, 29 April 2017, 12:58:00
Currently using HD598s as my gaming headphones, they are really good for positional audio.

My "audiophile" setup is:
Audeze LCD-X
Woo Audio WA22 Amp
Schiit Yggdrasil DAC
All Wywires platinum/silver interconnects.

You mean stereo to see where you should shoot 'm ****ers?

Coz my headphones are great but stereo not so much. I never know where they coming from.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 29 April 2017, 20:06:29
Has anyone tried the Monoprice Monolith 1060m? Rev 2 is out now
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: thatsmrdoctortoyou on Sun, 30 April 2017, 01:12:18
Been using the Sennheiser HD598Cs + FiiO E10 for about a month now - consistently 2-3 hours/day, maximum of 7 hrs/day, varying from electronic or classical music to recorded school lectures and videos. The FiiO is probably not necessary considering the low impedance of the the HD598Cs (23U) in combination with output from a Macbook Pro, but should be noted.

Overall these headphones are very accurate, in my opinion, to what the recorded sound was intended to sound like. The sound is crisp, sharp, fast. Full disclosure, these are my first high(er) end headphones so keep that in mind. That being said, I really enjoy the sound and the overall comfort. At first I found them to be a bit finicky in terms of position on my head creating equal sounds in both ears. However, I've gotten used to how to adjust them to create equal sound bilaterally.

"But why did you by the closed-back version of the ever-so-popular 598??"
I work from home most of the time, and my fiance recently had a shoulder surgery and has also been home. In order for me to get through the 8+ hours of boring-ass lectures, my headphones have to be silent for those in my immediate surrounding. From my fiance, "I can just barely hear your music" when I'm listening to music waaaaaaaaay louder than I should be.

In terms of comfort you really cant go wrong with the HD 598's, open or closed as I hear the ear cups are identical. Once these puppies are one, they melt into your skull and eventually you forget they are even there.

In summary, if you are considering a new pair of sub $150 closed-back headphones, I would highly suggest Sennheiser 598Cs. My god, get these cans and listen to Yo Yo Ma perform Bach on the cello. Take a second to think about how amazing it is to experience the emotion that is invoked when music created hundreds of years ago is performed today. Cheers, B

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 01 May 2017, 19:13:26
I'm looking to get a dac and amp soon.. trying to decide between Schiit Johtunheim w/ DAC module and getting a Modi Multi-bit dac to pair with Johtunheim without dac
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Tue, 02 May 2017, 08:34:33
I'm looking to get a dac and amp soon.. trying to decide between Schiit Johtunheim w/ DAC module and getting a Modi Multi-bit dac to pair with Johtunheim without dac

Myself I would save the desktop space and get it the Jotunheim with the DAC module. Mainly because you get the balanced headphone jack and balanced outputs in the back you could use for an amplifier and speakers in the future.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Entropia on Thu, 18 May 2017, 10:21:20
My headphones are the Grado SR 225i. I've enjoyed them for some years, because before I was using my computer in a different place. Now, however, I can use my speakers at high volumen because nobody will complain. Therefore, my headphones are rarely used anymore. It's a pity, because they are amazing for Heavy Metal.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: diiiP on Thu, 18 May 2017, 14:24:36
I am using the Philips Fidelio X2 since two years now and could not be happier.
Comfort and buildquality is a 10/10, and the sound is more on the "fun".
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: jcc04 on Wed, 31 May 2017, 16:45:29
I've now gone through buying and selling two 598's and just recently my 6XX's, I love them but I just need a solid closed back pair and invest in some at home speakers.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 31 May 2017, 18:09:32
I've now gone through buying and selling two 598's and just recently my 6XX's, I love them but I just need a solid closed back pair and invest in some at home speakers.

The Sennheiser 598cs are a solid closed back headphone but if you're looking for something more high end the Massdrop/Fostex TH-X00 are incredible. I don't own them but had the opportunity to use them for a week and will be getting a pair....one day.

What budget range for home speakers are you looking at? Also are you getting some nice bookshelfs with sub or a full 5.1/7.1 setup?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mrduul on Fri, 02 June 2017, 08:53:12
Honestly any Sennheiser has been an amazing experience.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 02 June 2017, 17:57:54
finally bought m2/m2 stack lol
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Sat, 03 June 2017, 17:38:53
How is it?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 03 June 2017, 17:40:11
getting proxied, won't have it for a while
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Sun, 04 June 2017, 16:02:25
Nice, I need a new dac/amp. Been using a Schiit fulla for the past year since it drives my fidelio x2s fine. Used to have a M/M stack but got rid of it last year. Unfortunately with my new motherboard there is a lot of background noise with the fulla so I think I will have to look at alternatives.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Sun, 04 June 2017, 20:42:49
Nice, I need a new dac/amp. Been using a Schiit fulla for the past year since it drives my fidelio x2s fine. Used to have a M/M stack but got rid of it last year. Unfortunately with my new motherboard there is a lot of background noise with the fulla so I think I will have to look at alternatives.

I use optical TOSLINK from my PC to DAC so there is no way interference from the motherboard can travel along the cable. I also plug all of the audio devices in my chain into a power conditioner to filter noise from the grid. It works quite well and I get perfectly black backgrounds with everything from IEMs to the HD800.

My DAC/amp is Bifrost 4490 and Lake People Violectric V200.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 12 June 2017, 13:34:59
Just ordered a pair of the Fostex T-X0's. Unfortunately they won't be here until around October. :(
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mrduul on Tue, 13 June 2017, 01:59:16
Mannnn anything sennheiser


Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Blanched_Almond on Thu, 15 June 2017, 08:02:18
Now this thread game me an idea which to choose from.  Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 15 June 2017, 13:17:35
bee stole my Schiit stack
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Fri, 16 June 2017, 15:09:15
I have the HD 700's now and they are great for gaming. Their ability for positional audio is fantastic (depending on the game of course).

Music still sounds incredible but I do notice a huge difference between them and the HD 600. Thinking the 650's would be the just right in between. Gonna be selling my HD 700's though and take a chance on the Monolith M1060's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: iMav on Fri, 16 June 2017, 15:22:02
I just use a pair of senal SMH-1000's studio monitor headphones.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 16 June 2017, 19:20:22
I have the HD 700's now and they are great for gaming. Their ability for positional audio is fantastic (depending on the game of course).

Music still sounds incredible but I do notice a huge difference between them and the HD 600. Thinking the 650's would be the just right in between. Gonna be selling my HD 700's though and take a chance on the Monolith M1060's.

I'd say the HD600 is probably more of an in-between for the HD650 and HD700. The HD650 is a bit darker sounding than the HD600.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Mon, 19 June 2017, 15:56:26
I've heard great things about the m1060s.. especially the version 2 improvements over the initial release
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Mon, 19 June 2017, 18:42:36
I have the HD 700's now and they are great for gaming. Their ability for positional audio is fantastic (depending on the game of course).

Music still sounds incredible but I do notice a huge difference between them and the HD 600. Thinking the 650's would be the just right in between. Gonna be selling my HD 700's though and take a chance on the Monolith M1060's.

I'd say the HD600 is probably more of an in-between for the HD650 and HD700. The HD650 is a bit darker sounding than the HD600.

For gaming I would say the HD650 is between the HD600 and HD700.

For music I completely agree. HD700 is a good musical headphone, HD650 is good but not as good as HD700, but the HD600 IMO beats out them both.

I've heard great things about the m1060s.. especially the version 2 improvements over the initial release

I sold my HD700's quicker then expected so I just ordered the M1060 rev2....literally today. And, I just upgraded from my Asgard 2 to the Lyr for a straight across trade. Will report back on my opinion.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: cmadrid on Wed, 21 June 2017, 10:32:42
Sweet!  I might pick up some m1060s to compare against my he400i
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 13 July 2017, 13:46:51
potato

(http://i.imgur.com/TueiE6F.jpg)

m2u stack + fostex th600

fiio x7 + noble 4c



next up is probably flagship CIEMs next year
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dgneo on Thu, 13 July 2017, 13:51:42
potato

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TueiE6F.jpg)


m2u stack + fostex th600

fiio x7 + noble 4c



next up is probably flagship CIEMs next year

you finally get the nobles situated? i remember reading you had to send 'em back a couple times
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Thu, 13 July 2017, 13:55:09
potato

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TueiE6F.jpg)


m2u stack + fostex th600

fiio x7 + noble 4c



next up is probably flagship CIEMs next year

you finally get the nobles situated? i remember reading you had to send 'em back a couple times

i've been happy with them for about a year now (I had to send back only 1 time because initial fit didn't work out). will be sending them back for a refit soon since they've offered to do so, right ear is leaking just a tiny bit.

customer service A+ but it's kinda annoying to have to ship back to China and wait for turnaround time.

the process of customs are kind of a pain in the ass... but they're so good. and so prettyyyyyyy
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: byker on Thu, 13 July 2017, 21:27:21
potato

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/TueiE6F.jpg)


m2u stack + fostex th600

fiio x7 + noble 4c



next up is probably flagship CIEMs next year

Jealous of those th600s! They are one of the pairs I am considering.

I have an audio-gd nfb-11 coming!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Centropyge loriculus on Fri, 14 July 2017, 22:35:22
Etymotic Reasearch HF5 IEMs for music and podcasts. Astro A50s for gaming.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tactile on Sat, 15 July 2017, 21:23:04
Sony MDR-7506 driven by a Topping TP30 Mk 2 which also drives a pair of Minimus 7.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mason on Sat, 15 July 2017, 23:27:04
I found a pair of Sennheiser HD 6XX's on Craigslist for retail, but I could probably try for $180 or something. Would the Audioengine D1 be fine for these? Or should I look into upgrading?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 16 July 2017, 10:28:59
I found the idea of planar mag IEM's from Audeze to be quite intriguing, so I snagged an iSine 10 to give it a go. It's been a while since my last IEM/can purchase as I've gotten quite jaded with my audio gear. Planar magnetic IEM's on-the-go is new to me, so gonna give it a spin.
(http://i.imgur.com/xvRezIv.jpg)
Inside the box....
(http://i.imgur.com/xwzyTs2.jpg)

I wasn't at all surprised that my G6 was able to power it up to pretty loud volume with ease....
(http://i.imgur.com/XZSI3SM.jpg)

Edit - Had to change Photobucket image links to imgur.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Sun, 16 July 2017, 20:34:54
I found a pair of Sennheiser HD 6XX's on Craigslist for retail, but I could probably try for $180 or something. Would the Audioengine D1 be fine for these? Or should I look into upgrading?

Looking over the specs on the Audioengine D1 it will definitely work to power them. Never having listened to the Audioengine D1 myself I couldn't comment on how good it will sound as a pair with the HD6XX's but it will definitely work.

If you want to get a little crazy however you could go for the Schiit Modi 2 uber, the Schiit Vali 2 and the Genalex Gold Lion E88CC tube. Offers plenty of power plus an incredible amount of added bass to any headphones. I hope you enjoy the HD6XX though, big Sennheiser fan myself.

You could also go towards the Garage1217 Project Starlight tube amp. It's a bit pricier but absolutely the best tube amp for the price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mason on Mon, 17 July 2017, 10:20:38
I found a pair of Sennheiser HD 6XX's on Craigslist for retail, but I could probably try for $180 or something. Would the Audioengine D1 be fine for these? Or should I look into upgrading?

Looking over the specs on the Audioengine D1 it will definitely work to power them. Never having listened to the Audioengine D1 myself I couldn't comment on how good it will sound as a pair with the HD6XX's but it will definitely work.

If you want to get a little crazy however you could go for the Schiit Modi 2 uber, the Schiit Vali 2 and the Genalex Gold Lion E88CC tube. Offers plenty of power plus an incredible amount of added bass to any headphones. I hope you enjoy the HD6XX though, big Sennheiser fan myself.

You could also go towards the Garage1217 Project Starlight tube amp. It's a bit pricier but absolutely the best tube amp for the price.

Thanks for the recommendations! This guy hasn't replied to my email yet, so I could be saving a lot of money  :))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TennisShoeNinja on Tue, 18 July 2017, 11:03:54
I fell on the hype of astros, any recommendations for wireless gaming?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Centropyge loriculus on Tue, 18 July 2017, 16:51:54
I fell on the hype of astros, any recommendations for wireless gaming?

Depends on the platform. I've got A50's for Xbox One my wife gifted me and I honestly love them. I've had to fix them a few times, but that's my own careless fault. For PC, I use my Etymotic Research HF5's 'cause it's easier than swapping out my A50's between the two. I'm not so much the audiophile, and particularly for gaming I just want the advantage of hearing a reload over hearing the music.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: TennisShoeNinja on Tue, 18 July 2017, 16:52:37
I fell on the hype of astros, any recommendations for wireless gaming?

Depends on the platform. I've got A50's for Xbox One my wife gifted me and I honestly love them. I've had to fix them a few times, but that's my own careless fault. For PC, I use my Etymotic Research HF5's 'cause it's easier than swapping out my A50's between the two. I'm not so much the audiophile, and particularly for gaming I just want the advantage of hearing a reload over hearing the music.
I'm on PC. seems like run out of battery all the time. :/


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Centropyge loriculus on Tue, 18 July 2017, 17:08:07
They certainly do. I can't deny that. I don't play for long stints anymore with my daughter on the way. If you're a PC guy, I honestly can't help much at all as there are just too many options and I haven't tried out enough give any solid advice. If you need a headset, I'd even check r/headphones on Reddit as they've got a whole buyer's guide and it's a very active community.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Tactile on Sat, 22 July 2017, 12:24:09
UPS yesterday delivered a pair of Grado SR80e. I just listened to "Down the Wire" by Spyro Gyra and I'm very pleased with them. And Scott Ambush is a God.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: beerafffe1 on Thu, 03 August 2017, 17:26:26
Any Aurisonic ASG 2.5 users here?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 09 August 2017, 09:46:17
My Denon d7000s are on their last aesthetic legs. At this point they are literally being held together with packing tape, although the sound drivers still sound fantastic. I need to swap the 'engine' out in a new body so to speak, but have no idea where to get them repaired.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 10 August 2017, 12:21:28
My Denon d7000s are on their last aesthetic legs. At this point they are literally being held together with packing tape, although the sound drivers still sound fantastic. I need to swap the 'engine' out in a new body so to speak, but have no idea where to get them repaired.

Nothing wrong with packing tape..
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mason on Thu, 31 August 2017, 23:26:36
[attachimg=1]

Number 875! First time using Craigslist and it was at 9 p.m.

My boy also threw in that headphone stand and an aftermarket cable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 06 October 2017, 07:29:12
Got my HD6XX from the seller today, looks to be in just about mint condition. Funny thing about the color though, it looks like black but when the flash from my phone camera struck it, it looks blue.
(https://i.imgur.com/18k6Wyk.jpg)
Took out some of my other cans from storage to see how the HD6XX stacks up against them....using my Oppo HA1 as the DAC combo of choice for me.
(https://i.imgur.com/PIplNNL.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: eksuen on Fri, 06 October 2017, 12:24:20
Got my HD6XX from the seller today, looks to be in just about mint condition. Funny thing about the color though, it looks like black but when the flash from my phone camera struck it, it looks blue.
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/18k6Wyk.jpg)

Took out some of my other cans from storage to see how the HD6XX stacks up against them....using my Oppo HA1 as the DAC combo of choice for me.
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/PIplNNL.jpg)


Yeah, it's a nice midnight blue. I like it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: katushkin on Sat, 07 October 2017, 06:11:24
Not quite the level that we usually see in here but I wanted to share my new headphone purchase; a set of Bose Soundlink II Bluetooth headphones (https://www.bose.co.uk/en_gb/products/headphones/over_ear_headphones/soundlink-around-ear-wireless-headphones-ii.html#ProductTabs_tab0)

(https://i.imgur.com/UBiWOnt.jpg)

Initial impressions after 2 weeks of ownership: Very light, great sound quality, very good and reliable syncing with my iPhone (yes, even on iOS11) and very comfortable. There is also a good quality microphone on the right cup for calls which works very well, even outside. You can't see it very well from the inside shot, but the cups are angled to allow more room for the larger part of your ear.

(https://i.imgur.com/2DlPyEh.jpg)

This means that the whole of the padding sits flush with the side of your head which is great. It's not something I've had before so I thought I would share. I thought it was a great design idea.

My reasoning behind getting new Bluetooth headphones was because I tend to do a lot of work in our data centre, and I wanted the flexibility of not having to use corded headphones while I'm standing up and crouching and kneeling and stretching and ****. Also I got them through an electronics buy scheme through work so I got a discount too :) And the white goes with my phone as well, plus I think the black version looks weird with the blue bits.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 07 October 2017, 23:16:21
I've decided to remove the HiFiMan HE-4 for comparison against the HD6XX since the former is no longer available (or, at the very least, pretty damn hard to find). In its stead, I've rustle  up my Audio Technica ATH-R70X which is a damn fine and easily available can. Gonna take a few days for me to audition them and gather my thoughts....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Signature on Mon, 09 October 2017, 07:52:15
Ik this is a headphone thread but I´m looking for speakers around the 400$ mark. Was looking at the ruark mr1 mkii, since it's gotten generally good reviews, do you guys know of any other good bang for the buck speaker?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 09 October 2017, 08:58:39
Ik this is a headphone thread but I´m looking for speakers around the 400$ mark. Was looking at the ruark mr1 mkii, since it's gotten generally good reviews, do you guys know of any other good bang for the buck speaker?
I was gonna recommend a pair of JBL LSR305, or even a pair of KRK Rokit5 G3 (which I'm using)  but I'd been reading about the Ruark MR1 Mk II, seems like a good choice.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 09 October 2017, 17:46:18
I need to borrow some dank IEMs while I get my nobles refit :( or buy something cheap... but that doesn't sound very enticing.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 09 October 2017, 21:43:34
I need to borrow some dank IEMs while I get my nobles refit :( or buy something cheap... but that doesn't sound very enticing.
I'd recommend some ChiFi IEM's, but they do take a while to deliver and by then, you'd prolly have gotten your Noble back. Granted, if you're looking for something to sound like, say, a Noble Savant, I can't think of any ChiFi IEM that's straight up neutral. They'd be somewhat colored sound signature-wise, I have some nice mainstream IEM's (never understood the need for custom jobs, but hey, that's just me being me I guess), but I do have some ChiFi IEM's because -
1. They sound good, surprisingly good actually, given their asking price
2. Should I happen to lose on, or damage it, I won't feel at all bad since.....well, they're cheap.

I like the Senfer 4in1, heard the Senfer 6in1 improves on the 4in1 (less treble sparkle), but I like 'em sparkle. I have the KZ ZS3 and ED12 which I've found to be a tad dark for my liking, but they do have sumptuous bass.
(https://i.imgur.com/FtCqlZH.jpg)

Meanwhile, I've been thinking of getting a Cayin iDAC6 and iHA6 stack......trying to talk myself out of it though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Fri, 13 October 2017, 06:31:22
I'm all up on then kz zst pros. $20 1 day shipping thnx amazon
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 14 October 2017, 08:19:25
(https://i.imgur.com/Ed5Pd28.jpg)

So yeah I got these from Amazon with 1 day delivery. They call these the KZ ZST Colorful (or also known as Pro). My audiologist is away until November 1 but I gave these a listen anyway just to prepare myself. I read a few reviews and a lot of them said that I'd need the SPC "upgrade" cable or else they would sound muddy and boy were they right. I ordered the cable + some comply tips separately (also 1 day shipping but they arrived later in the evening) and these were muddy af compared to the new cable. I also hate silicone ear tips so much. It's the main reason why I feel the need to have customs, it's just a comfort thing, I can't do universal ear tips it irritates me, even foam ones but I'll settle for the complys.

Got these in a very Sifo-style aesthetic, the main reason why I chose them to be honest. It's probably what my customs would look like if I didn't go with the Wizard's fancy craftsmanship. I also wanted to go with these because they were the only 2-pin iems available through amazon canada, but then I found out these are the TF10 2-pin so I wouldn't be able to use my cables without permanently expanding the sockets so I decided to get the SPC upgrade cable instead. Ended up costing like $60 cad? IEMs were 27 and comply tips + cable ended up being 33 or so.

I must say though, for the price they're definitely not bad. Probably the 2nd best Chinese IEM I've tried (and I've tried quite a few since before I got my customs I was a chi-fi budget chaser). The best I've tried being the Ostry KC06A but those are also a lot more expensive. I have the Noble 4C which was the flat/neutral monitor in the previous lineup, so I knew I wouldn't be getting anything with a sound signature I'd be used to.

The sound signature is fine, good mid bass and decent sub bass extension, highs with good clarity and a little bright, slightly recessed + warm midrange but no big deal. Definitely wouldn't call them dark. They're comfortable and have great isolation for a universal though.

Biggest difference going from something nice to Chi-Fi is the imaging and instrument separation. These have pretty good clarity with the upgrade cable, but the bass is far far behind compared to the rest of the instruments and vocals which sound very forward.

Main things I can pick out during burn-in: surprising amount of detail but snares and claps are kinda hard to hear in electronic music and metal, kicks are fine and sub bass is good. They kinda remind me of my TH600s at home which is nice. They're definitely way more bassy than my "boring" style 4C but I'm not super into bass. One thing I like about the 4C better in the bass department is the tight and controlled punch it has, which I definitely miss. Female vocals sound kinda dry but very forward. Guitar kinda tinny, lacking a larger body/presence that I like but once again very forward. One of my favourite piano pieces sounds god awful with these, much tin.

Only other pair of earphones I have are MEE M-Duos which I got off Massdrop ages ago. Only thing I remember about those was that I didn't like the bass. Kinda lazy to compare them right now while i've still got my customs but maybe in the future when I'm bored. But really it's not fair to compare these to my Nobles at all, they were never meant to be on the same level lol. I do like these though, sucks that you pretty much HAVE to buy an upgrade cable
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pr0ximity on Sat, 14 October 2017, 08:54:16
Joined the current HD6XX drop, pretty excited. I've got a pair of HD555's from way back that I love to death. Have AKG 553's for work which aren't bad but I like a warmer sound. Will be nice to have something for proper home listening and experimenting with amps.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sat, 14 October 2017, 08:55:28
Joined the current HD6XX drop, pretty excited. I've got a pair of HD555's from way back that I love to death. Have AKG 553's for work which aren't bad but I like a warmer sound. Will be nice to have something for proper home listening and experimenting with amps.

personally waiting for the hd8xx kek
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pr0ximity on Sat, 14 October 2017, 18:27:06
Senn 7/8__ is too much for me. I think I'm over hobbies like keyboards where I just have to try everything and convince myself that I can always sell the stuff I don't end up liking (spoilers: I end up liking everything).

I'm going full milquetoast with headphones: HD6XX(50) and a Schiit Magni + Modi. Can't have too much excitement in my life, it's unhealthy.






But I really like the idea of Denon 5k's, or ZMF Atticus's. FML.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sat, 14 October 2017, 21:48:24
Senn 7/8__ is too much for me. I think I'm over hobbies like keyboards where I just have to try everything and convince myself that I can always sell the stuff I don't end up liking (spoilers: I end up liking everything).

I'm going full milquetoast with headphones: HD6XX(50) and a Schiit Magni + Modi. Can't have too much excitement in my life, it's unhealthy.






But I really like the idea of Denon 5k's, or ZMF Atticus's. FML.
Oh man, I can so identify with that, at one stage I had something like 30 or so keyboards, from Cherry MX to Topre to BS, I just had to step away and find something else to tickle my fancy. Went off the deep end with the purchase of a HD800 as my first true audiophile can, and I've not looked back since. Tried out various DAC stack/combos and I've ended up with three audiophile level setups - Oppo HA1, Gustard H10 + X12 stack and a Fostex HPA4 along with a number of cans (15 thus far). I think I'd swapped one money draining hobby for another....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Sun, 15 October 2017, 07:09:54
and yet we're all still here
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Fri, 20 October 2017, 10:12:34
I don't mind some opinions on what my next purchase optio(s) might be:
1. Cayin iDAC6 and iHA6 stack, the version I'm looking at has a glass top for the iDAC6
https://www.innerfidelity.com/content/cayin-idac-6-and-iha-6-dynamic-duo-page-2

2. My 2nd option needs no introduction among headphone enuthusiasts.....the much venerated HE6 with grill and ohhgourami mod.

Option 1 and 2 cost about the same, but I have the budget for only one, I supposed the HE6 would be a safer bet as it would definitely have better resale value (should I not like it).....
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 23 October 2017, 08:50:01
I've changed my mind about getting the HE6 (ohhgourami mod, 6 screws) and the Cayin stack, instead, I've gone back to one of the first higher end DAC combo (iFi iDAC Micro). This time 'round, it's the new and improved iDAC Micro Black Label.....got it a a pretty good price, only two days old (it was brand new and sealed).
(https://i.imgur.com/28ZmXyo.jpg)
No, not sealed in this pic as I'd opened it to look inside to complete the deal
(https://i.imgur.com/9VQov2m.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8BruCPP.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pr0ximity on Mon, 23 October 2017, 12:21:35
(https://i.imgur.com/m78RZVX.jpg)

Came in today. Can probably use the Asgard to heat my apartment for the winter, I knew a Class A would be warm, but I think I underestimated it a little.

Good sound so far, more listening tomorrow. I think the bass was clipping when listening to my HD555's straight from my desktop/laptop, a lot smoother through the amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: HPE1000 on Mon, 23 October 2017, 13:11:24
If only the cable wasn't so terrible on these :/

(https://i.imgur.com/dHvGgia.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 23 October 2017, 16:49:23
nice gets everyone
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: FreeCopy on Mon, 23 October 2017, 17:08:54
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/m78RZVX.jpg)


Came in today. Can probably use the Asgard to heat my apartment for the winter, I knew a Class A would be warm, but I think I underestimated it a little.

Good sound so far, more listening tomorrow. I think the bass was clipping when listening to my HD555's straight from my desktop/laptop, a lot smoother through the amp.

I know that's the Modi but since they moved to the Magni3 on their site, you can get the Magni2 uber on Amazon for $79.00
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SCBX6FA/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_1_w

I need a serious headphone upgrade. I'm still on these Sennheiser eH150. Looking at the AKG from Massdrop, DT990, or HE-400i.

Any opinions from anyone here? I'll be running through a magni/modi stack. Thanks!
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 25 October 2017, 20:22:28
I know that's the Modi but since they moved to the Magni3 on their site, you can get the Magni2 uber on Amazon for $79.00
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SCBX6FA/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_1_w

I need a serious headphone upgrade. I'm still on these Sennheiser eH150. Looking at the AKG from Massdrop, DT990, or HE-400i.

Any opinions from anyone here? I'll be running through a magni/modi stack. Thanks!
What kind of can are you looking at? Open or closed back? What's your preferred sound signature? What's your budget?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: FreeCopy on Thu, 26 October 2017, 03:14:30
I know that's the Modi but since they moved to the Magni3 on their site, you can get the Magni2 uber on Amazon for $79.00
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SCBX6FA/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_1_w

I need a serious headphone upgrade. I'm still on these Sennheiser eH150. Looking at the AKG from Massdrop, DT990, or HE-400i.

Any opinions from anyone here? I'll be running through a magni/modi stack. Thanks!
What kind of can are you looking at? Open or closed back? What's your preferred sound signature? What's your budget?

I want to try an open back. I've always had cheaper earbuds or noise cancelling headphones. The earbuds are fine for portable audio but for posting up in front of my computer for hours at a time I want something comfortable and sounds good that I'm not going to get annoyed with. After an hour or more of solid listening these just feel like they start degrading in sound.

For sound signature I honestly don't know. My uses are music and gaming. The most video watching I do with headphones on is when I fall into a youtube k-hole. These are my first steps out of some off the shelf stuff from Target or Wal-Mart.

What I have listed I've read a bit about and I find them in a decent price range of $200-300. Ultimately I want to stay under $500 for this purchase.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pr0ximity on Thu, 26 October 2017, 05:45:49
The most popular options are probably HD600/650 and DT880/990 it seems, at least speaking as someone who also just bought their first pair of $200+ level cans (HD6XX)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Thu, 16 November 2017, 02:49:31
Wow, this thread was in danger of slipping pass Page 1, I feel I have to step up and rescue it!  :cool:  ;D Anyway, just got a pair of cheap custom cable from a local custom cable guy. It's really quite affordable at just under 40USD, looks good and feels quite solidly made due to the cable braiding. I'd custom made mine from the usual stock one with braiding, 4pin Neutrik plug and higher quality plugs that go into the HD6XX.
(https://i.imgur.com/tNoCwRu.jpg)
I'm using a spare room, so I'm not using it with my Oppo HA1 which is in my actual room. Anyway, I'm using the iFi Micro iDSD BL, hence the need for that 4pin Blanced to 6.3mm adapter cable.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 22 November 2017, 20:47:39
There are some SCREAMING deals to be had here:
https://www.audeze.com/promotional-products/black-friday-2017 (https://www.audeze.com/promotional-products/black-friday-2017)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Sat, 30 December 2017, 12:52:25
Welp, another year, another set of good quality headphones destroyed. God and Kansas City in general seem to hate my (very limited) wallet.


Now in the market for an inexpensive set of decent headphones until I get some money in April or May. Will probably have to settle for Sport-a-Pros again until then because I'm money-strapped with only about 30 bucks free. Worst part: just got my first amp for Christmas, a relatively low in Fiio A1 (my current player, a 6" Amazon Fire Tablet, just cannot drive headphones at all.)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: davkol on Sun, 31 December 2017, 05:56:17
Let me suggest Superlux (or similar) cans of your choice and perhaps a case for storage/traveling.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Sun, 31 December 2017, 17:12:25
I'll look into those! Whatever I buy though, it will be a few months, because I've got a few bills to pay before I can make a purchase. I've bought a pair of Sport-A-Pros to tide me over, and will probably keep them as a backup set for problems in the future. Any Superlux recommendations that might be around or under 100 bucks?

Edit: wow, these headphones are pretty inexpensive for what they offer. I'll consider returning the Sport-a-pros and getting some HD-681 Evos and see how I like them. Seems those are the Superlux cans to go for.

Edit Edit: Heh, my mom apparently decided I should have a pair of V6's again. Apparently she didn't like me having to settle for "cheaper" cans.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Sun, 31 December 2017, 20:49:38
Order a set of three headphone hangers/mounts from Aliexpress, took almost three weeks to get to me, but I like what I saw. I had to bend the tips/edges a fair bit more, I found the stock angle of the tips to be not steep enough to prevent a can from sliding off in the event of an accident knock or nudge against my headphone rack.
(https://i.imgur.com/C77HUVY.jpg)

I mounted these headphone mounts at the bottom most tier of my headphone rack, I can now hang all my full-sized cans on it. I took the pic in my spare room, so it's messy, but I'll be shifting to a dinky new apartment where I can put this rack in a right and proper setting.
(https://i.imgur.com/oyMJzRD.jpg)

Oh yeah, I almost forgot, HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! :D  Hope 2018 brings joy, happiness and wealth for everyone! :thumb:  Let's not forget more audio fun for everyone! :cool:

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 01 January 2018, 18:01:44
Has anyone had experience with Moon Audio cables?
https://www.moon-audio.com/ (https://www.moon-audio.com/)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: OfTheWild on Mon, 01 January 2018, 18:48:21
Has anyone had experience with Moon Audio cables?
https://www.moon-audio.com/ (https://www.moon-audio.com/)

They are walking distance from my house. I could go up there this week and get the inside scoop on their stuff. I need to go test some amps anyway.
At first impression their prices seem a bit steep.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Mon, 01 January 2018, 19:28:37
Has anyone had experience with Moon Audio cables?
https://www.moon-audio.com/ (https://www.moon-audio.com/)

They are walking distance from my house. I could go up there this week and get the inside scoop on their stuff. I need to go test some amps anyway.
At first impression their prices seem a bit steep.

Hell yeah, that's exactly what I was wondering; How would their different cables pair with a tube amp, since they state the Black warms up the sound which I am quite dubious of. Also curious if there's any real difference at all between the Blue and Silver.
But dropping $200+ on a headphone cable seems silly to me, just not much option for the EL-8's weird connector and the stock cable is short and poorly made.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: OfTheWild on Mon, 01 January 2018, 19:35:37
Has anyone had experience with Moon Audio cables?
https://www.moon-audio.com/ (https://www.moon-audio.com/)

They are walking distance from my house. I could go up there this week and get the inside scoop on their stuff. I need to go test some amps anyway.
At first impression their prices seem a bit steep.

Hell yeah, that's exactly what I was wondering; How would their different cables pair with a tube amp, since they state the Black warms up the sound which I am quite dubious of. Also curious if there's any real difference at all between the Blue and Silver.
But dropping $200+ on a headphone cable seems silly to me, just not much option for the EL-8's weird connector and the stock cable is short and poorly made.

So apparently they dont have a showroom that i can stop by and see but it sounds like i can make an appointment to come by. But apparently their cables are legit - albeit I cant imagine the difference between a $50 hand made cable, and a $300 hand made cable being that big but I guess when you're dealing with $10k audio setups who am I to discriminate where people spend their money.
"You spent how much on a cable that only has 2% more pure copper than the $10 one on amazon?!"
"You spent how much on a rubber dome keyboard with fancy key caps?!"

to each their own.

I wonder if some of the nerds on headfi DIY would do a nice set for a lot cheaper?

Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Findecanor on Mon, 01 January 2018, 22:45:33
Gah! The plastic connection between the headband and an earcup on my Audio Technica ATH-M40 broke.
I welded it together with Poly Cement (solvent for ABS) but I don't know if that will hold up. May be too tiny to put some reinforcing epoxy and fibreglass in there...
Using my Shure 840 now instead.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: funderburker on Wed, 03 January 2018, 06:11:37
Mmm, anyone interested in getting VE Monk Plus?

I have a pair with the expansion pack and don't really need them. Could ship someone a pair if you pay shipping (<$5). I know there cheap from the shop as is but I'm from EU and shipping within EU would be quicker.

(https://i.imgur.com/YRT9BYF.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: microsoft windows on Wed, 03 January 2018, 07:54:49
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=46529.0;attach=184575;image)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-izWTbo6t-sg/VhVSVP9TfSI/AAAAAAAABx8/fVxpJLviudk/s1600/MartyHeadphones.jpg)
THESE ARE MY HEADPHONES. THEY ARE DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR USE WITH WINDOWS 98 AND VIEWING MULTIMEDIA ON INTERNET EXPLORER 6. THESE ARE THE BEST HEADPHONES YOU CAN PURCHASE FOR THE MONEY. ANY OTHER MORE EXPENSIVE HEADPHONES ARE NOTHING BUT A WASTE OF MONEY, JUST LIKE CRAPPLE MACINTRASH COMPUTING PRODUCTS. REMEMBER: GET WINDOWS 98, GET INTERNET EXPLORER 6, AND GET A GOOD SET OF HEADPHONES LIKE THESE WHILE YOU ARE AT IT AND YOU WON'T REGRET IT! MY SET OF HEADPHONES I HAD PERSONALLY AUTOGRAPHED BY HILLARY CLINTON IN 1997. I WANTED TO SELL THEM AT A PROFIT, BUT THEN THE RUSSIANS STOLE THE ELECTION AND GAVE IT TO DONALD TRUMP, WHO IS LIKE LITERALLY HITLER. THEREFORE, YOU CAN JOIN THE RESISTANCE BY PURCHASING A SET OF THESE HEADPHONES, ALONG WITH A SPECIAL LIMITED EDITION INTERNET EXPLORER MOUSEPAD FOR A LOW PRICE OF ONLY THREE EASY PAYMENTS OF $49.99. BUT DON'T WAIT! CALL NOW! 1-800-WIN-1998. I REPEAT! CALL RIGHT NOW SO YOU CAN ENJOY THIS LIMITED TIME OFFER BEFORE IT EXPIRES! TIME IS RUNNING OUT! ALSO, 1% OF ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE GIVEN TO STARVING CHILDREN IN UGANDA. SO WHY ARE YOU WAITING? WHY HAVEN'T YOU ORDERED ONE YET? THE TIME TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE WITH THESE INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS IS RIGHT NOW!
(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=46529.0;attach=184575;image)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Wed, 03 January 2018, 10:23:14
Has anyone had experience with Moon Audio cables?
https://www.moon-audio.com/ (https://www.moon-audio.com/)

I have a couple of Moon Audio cables. A while back I experimented with some cables when I was trying to sort through anecdotal stories of headphones being transformed by new cables.

I purchased a Black Dragon V2 for my HD800 and to my surprise, it made a small but noticeable difference in the sound. I wouldn't say the copper cable warmed the sound or anything so transformative but it shaved a little energy off the top end and gave the lower mids a little more body.

I also have a Silver Dragon V3 for the Hifiman HE500 and other than eliminating the annoying microphonics of the stock cable, it made no discernable difference to the sound.

If you want a high quality, well put together cable, the Moon Audio offerings are good, but I think they are a little overpriced for what they are (just cables).
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 03 January 2018, 17:55:34
Has anyone had experience with Moon Audio cables?
https://www.moon-audio.com/ (https://www.moon-audio.com/)

I have a couple of Moon Audio cables. A while back I experimented with some cables when I was trying to sort through anecdotal stories of headphones being transformed by new cables.

I purchased a Black Dragon V2 for my HD800 and to my surprise, it made a small but noticeable difference in the sound. I wouldn't say the copper cable warmed the sound or anything so transformative but it shaved a little energy off the top end and gave the lower mids a little more body.

I also have a Silver Dragon V3 for the Hifiman HE500 and other than eliminating the annoying microphonics of the stock cable, it made no discernable difference to the sound.

If you want a high quality, well put together cable, the Moon Audio offerings are good, but I think they are a little overpriced for what they are (just cables).

Someone else suggested Norne Audio, stating that they use higher quality parts sourcing than Moon but I've no biases on that.
http://www.norneaudio.com/litzheim/
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 04 January 2018, 01:19:33
Someone else suggested Norne Audio, stating that they use higher quality parts sourcing than Moon but I've no biases on that.
http://www.norneaudio.com/litzheim/

I had originally wanted to try their cables (back when they were called Norse Audio) but they weren’t taking orders at the time. That’s how I ended up with the Moon Audio cables. I may still give Norne cables a try because I think they look cool.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Fri, 02 March 2018, 11:54:22
My headphones kept disconnecting and connecting and after troubleshooting it'd seem the culprit is the 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm jack adapter. How is something like that even possible? There are 0 moving parts ?? Please sound engineers explain ??
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Fri, 02 March 2018, 12:02:48
My headphones kept disconnecting and connecting and after troubleshooting it'd seem the culprit is the 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm jack adapter. How is something like that even possible? There are 0 moving parts ?? Please sound engineers explain ??

loose soldering for the wiring inside?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Fri, 02 March 2018, 12:12:18
Don't think there's any wiring inside the connector or is there? But yeah, apparently the adapters do wear out :o
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Fri, 02 March 2018, 22:06:43
Just got this one in today. Audeze LCD-X!
Sorry for the potato; my PC is out of commission and new MacBook is in the mail so I can't edit photos from my DSLR  :'(

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4609/39690080765_5b03c8095b_h.jpg)

I've been listening for most of the evening and it's fantastic. I've never heard a headphone that can render such detail but still remain perfectly smooth across the entire spectrum without a hint of sibilance or harshness. Treble is smooth and flat, mids are warm and the bass reaches down seemingly endlessly. Vocals are to die for.

Imaging is sharp and accurate. It always sounds effortless, never muddled, even with complex music like classical. The soundstage has great layering and moderate depth. By comparison, the HD800 has more air between the instruments but everything sounds like it's on the other side of a large room and spread way out.

The HD800 creates a perception of greater micro-detail due to its slightly boosted treble. The LCD-X has a much more natural sound than the HD800. I'm amazed by its ability to retain detail but stay so smooth. LCD-X is a real winner!

If only it was a few ounces lighter...

For reference, my source is Bifrost 4490 into Violectric V200.
I want to upgrade my Bifrost to multibit but I don't want to be without it for weeks while it's away at Schiit! First world problems...  :p
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Thu, 08 March 2018, 09:06:36
Has anyone had experience with Moon Audio cables?
https://www.moon-audio.com/ (https://www.moon-audio.com/)

I have a couple of Moon Audio cables. A while back I experimented with some cables when I was trying to sort through anecdotal stories of headphones being transformed by new cables.

I purchased a Black Dragon V2 for my HD800 and to my surprise, it made a small but noticeable difference in the sound. I wouldn't say the copper cable warmed the sound or anything so transformative but it shaved a little energy off the top end and gave the lower mids a little more body.

I also have a Silver Dragon V3 for the Hifiman HE500 and other than eliminating the annoying microphonics of the stock cable, it made no discernable difference to the sound.

If you want a high quality, well put together cable, the Moon Audio offerings are good, but I think they are a little overpriced for what they are (just cables).

Someone else suggested Norne Audio, stating that they use higher quality parts sourcing than Moon but I've no biases on that.
http://www.norneaudio.com/litzheim/ (http://www.norneaudio.com/litzheim/)


check out periaptcables.com , it's way more reasonably priced... don't spend like $200 on a cable only to then have to fight buyers remorse by defending it and believing it made a difference. if you however really want that style and the cash don't hurt, by all means, go ahead... I mean, we spend around 60-100$ on keyboard cables here too so... ;) (it's only about the aesthetics though, not that we have a real benefit of it)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Rayoui on Thu, 08 March 2018, 17:10:40
I know this a headphone thread but you guys seem to be fond of Schiit stuff so figured I'd show my setup.

The headphones are Hifiman HE-500 and Audeze LCD-X. On the top I have a Schiit Saga (with a Tung Sol reissue 6SN7) and Schiit Bifrost 4490. On the bottom is the Schiit Vidar driving a pair of KEF LS50. Headphone amp (out of frame) is a Violectric V200.

The Saga is a pretty cool preamp. It has a relay stepped attenuator for volume control which can be controlled from a remote. The Vidar is a power amp with a beefy power supply that drives the LS50s with authority.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4771/25826795617_1365b03282_h.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mauri on Sun, 11 March 2018, 11:22:20
Don't think there's any wiring inside the connector or is there? But yeah, apparently the adapters do wear out :o

Apparently that was just hopeful thinking. Probably not proper connection through the amplifier? I have no way of testing whether it's the amplifier, dac or something else though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Wed, 04 April 2018, 02:00:37
anyone here who has LCD-2C and M1060 (open or closed) and which one would you recommend more? (ignoring the price difference)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SBJ on Wed, 04 April 2018, 08:47:11
I know this a headphone thread but you guys seem to be fond of Schiit stuff so figured I'd show my setup.

The headphones are Hifiman HE-500 and Audeze LCD-X. On the top I have a Schiit Saga (with a Tung Sol reissue 6SN7) and Schiit Bifrost 4490. On the bottom is the Schiit Vidar driving a pair of KEF LS50. Headphone amp (out of frame) is a Violectric V200.

The Saga is a pretty cool preamp. It has a relay stepped attenuator for volume control which can be controlled from a remote. The Vidar is a power amp with a beefy power supply that drives the LS50s with authority.

Show Image
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4771/25826795617_1365b03282_h.jpg)

#HeadphoneGoals
Holy moly that's quite the setup.
I am ultra budget audiophile - even though I do listen to a lot of music. I suppose it doesn't take much to make me happy. :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: the_fascist on Sat, 21 April 2018, 02:36:16
SteelSeries Siberia 800.  They're pretty neat since they have two batteries you can swap out, but they're kind of tight and uncomfortable to wear for too long.. Maybe it's my head.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Kaorix on Sat, 21 April 2018, 04:15:31
I run Shure SRH-840s through a Technics SA340 amp.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Findecanor on Sat, 21 April 2018, 11:20:18
I run Shure SRH-840s through a Technics SA340 amp.
I have mine in the headphone jack of the front on my PC, and that works for me. :-þ
My hearing is far from perfect anyway ...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: JP on Sun, 22 April 2018, 19:54:22
Here's mine: Sony mdr 7506

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Tue, 24 April 2018, 09:17:59
Here's mine: Sony mdr 7506

(Attachment Link)

lol i literally just got a pair of these from work yesterday

they're aight
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Signature on Tue, 01 May 2018, 06:29:46
Looking for a pair of wireless overears for around 3/400 (+ if they have anc) are bose or sony the best? Been looking at the v moda crossfade 2, anyone tried them out?

 (http://www.fetchthebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dog-headphones.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Tue, 01 May 2018, 07:04:31
Looking for a pair of wireless overears for around 3/400 (+ if they have anc) are bose or sony the best? Been looking at the v moda crossfade 2, anyone tried them out?

 
Show Image
(http://www.fetchthebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dog-headphones.jpg)



from those two I'd go for the Sony... I quite like the Bowers & Wilkins PX though, check them out.

the Sonys will beat them regarding ANC and Soundquality, but the build quality and the looks are top notch
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Signature on Tue, 01 May 2018, 11:44:58
Looking for a pair of wireless overears for around 3/400 (+ if they have anc) are bose or sony the best? Been looking at the v moda crossfade 2, anyone tried them out?

 
Show Image
(http://www.fetchthebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dog-headphones.jpg)



from those two I'd go for the Sony... I quite like the Bowers & Wilkins PX though, check them out.

the Sonys will beat them regarding ANC and Soundquality, but the build quality and the looks are top notch
Thanks for the tips! I really like the look of the B&W but I've heard that people are complaining about the fit for longer hours of use. However a store in town have both ready to try so I'll make sure to go there on thursday :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Tue, 01 May 2018, 20:40:55
Picked up a pair of NiceHCK EBX (chi-fi) while on their anniversary sale and I've been incredibly impressed. Almost comparible to my isine 20's.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Wed, 02 May 2018, 03:53:01
Looking for a pair of wireless overears for around 3/400 (+ if they have anc) are bose or sony the best? Been looking at the v moda crossfade 2, anyone tried them out?

 
Show Image
(http://www.fetchthebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dog-headphones.jpg)



from those two I'd go for the Sony... I quite like the Bowers & Wilkins PX though, check them out.

the Sonys will beat them regarding ANC and Soundquality, but the build quality and the looks are top notch
Thanks for the tips! I really like the look of the B&W but I've heard that people are complaining about the fit for longer hours of use. However a store in town have both ready to try so I'll make sure to go there on thursday :D


yeah, trying them on in person is the best way to go about this stuff :)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Wed, 02 May 2018, 13:28:36
Looking for a pair of wireless overears for around 3/400 (+ if they have anc) are bose or sony the best? Been looking at the v moda crossfade 2, anyone tried them out?

 
Show Image
(http://www.fetchthebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dog-headphones.jpg)


Also look into this pair:

https://mo-electronics.com/beryllium-acoustic.html

They are exactly the same as the RBH HP2's except they are wireless. They are much cheaper that the price range you're looking at but are getting a lot of good reviews on Head-Fi. Plus their bass is just about the best in headphones I've ever heard.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: goodman247 on Thu, 31 May 2018, 22:21:47
My Cans:
Sony MDR-Z7 (Great close ear)
Focal Elear (Great open)
Bose QC 35 (Great Noise Cancelling wireless)
Topping DX7 Dac/Amp

Not the best of everything, but just good enough to have a little bit of everything.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: floatingskull on Thu, 07 June 2018, 13:19:47
I've owned some of the best headphones including the Focal Utopias and recently listened to the Susvaras and Orpheus and my favorite headphones are still the HD800S for open-ear and Sony Z1R for closed ear. I wasn't that impressed with the Orpheus honestly and the 800S has better detail and soundstage that the Utopias, it just outclasses them completely.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Deephouse_jedi on Thu, 07 June 2018, 14:01:24
I use Audio-technica ATH-AD700X, best bang for the buck while holding an amazing sound stage for gaming. Not a lot of bass if that's what you're into, but I use these for gaming mostly.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: nonpolar on Thu, 07 June 2018, 14:15:12
Anyone else here ever had the Oppo PM3? Big fan of it, but the pleather did not age well at all, and the company went under. Trying to see if there's anything else out there that can fit its category with closed backs in that price category.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: quazikun on Thu, 07 June 2018, 19:31:00
sennheiser hd 558's, not super expensive for the value and better sound than most all-in-one headsets
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: mittyzz on Thu, 07 June 2018, 20:44:49
I've had my Audio Tech A700s for so long now...things are tanks.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: carnagex9 on Fri, 08 June 2018, 11:35:11
I've had my Audio Tech A700s for so long now...things are tanks.

I have the same ones, absolutely love them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: portbaron on Fri, 08 June 2018, 14:11:16
Potato shot of my computer setup. ZMF Eikon camphor, DT1990 pro, HD6xx, thx00 ebony.

(https://i.imgur.com/RsHHqXt.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: pr0ximity on Fri, 08 June 2018, 14:16:18
Potato shot of my computer setup. ZMF Eikon camphor, DT1990 pro, HD6xx, thx00 ebony.

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/RsHHqXt.jpg?1)


 ZMF are so damn good looking. Maybe some day...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: NJWootton on Fri, 08 June 2018, 19:14:17
Currently rocking Beyerdynamic DT770s w/ detachable cable mod + JDS Labs ObjectiveDAC
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: haanuman on Fri, 29 June 2018, 01:11:15
Can anyone let me know if there are any good bluetooth headphones under 150$ I was searching on amazon and found one by Sony but it works only on bluetooth meaning if battery is dead then can't use a 3.5mm cable to use it.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Fri, 29 June 2018, 04:40:14
Can anyone let me know if there are any good bluetooth headphones under 150$ I was searching on amazon and found one by Sony but it works only on bluetooth meaning if battery is dead then can't use a 3.5mm cable to use it.


Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: do_Og@n on Fri, 29 June 2018, 22:57:21
Can anyone let me know if there are any good bluetooth headphones under 150$ I was searching on amazon and found one by Sony but it works only on bluetooth meaning if battery is dead then can't use a 3.5mm cable to use it.

Gonna post these ones as a suggestion again.

https://mo-electronics.com/beryllium-acoustic.html

They are the BT version of RBH Sounds HP-2 headphones marketed by MO Electronics. GREAT bass while keeping the mids and highs clean. Here's the Head-fi forum on it for other reviews and opinions:

https://www.head-fi.org/threads/rbh-hp-2-ultralight-beryllium-headphones.789653/

You can find them on Amazon for around 120 to 130 bucks plus you can use them as regular headphones with a regular 3.5mm cable if the battery runs out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: adoringbunny on Fri, 06 July 2018, 15:45:40
So happy for this thread! I've had a set of SteelSeries for probably, I don't know, 10 years now and while they work okay, they're very old and I feel like it's past time to get something new. Definitely going to be reading back through this thread for some ideas.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Sat, 07 July 2018, 04:38:23
So happy for this thread! I've had a set of SteelSeries for probably, I don't know, 10 years now and while they work okay, they're very old and I feel like it's past time to get something new. Definitely going to be reading back through this thread for some ideas.


what budget you looking at?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SBJ on Sat, 07 July 2018, 05:22:18
So happy for this thread! I've had a set of SteelSeries for probably, I don't know, 10 years now and while they work okay, they're very old and I feel like it's past time to get something new. Definitely going to be reading back through this thread for some ideas.


what budget you looking at?
Yeah budget would be nice to know.
Also I am a fan of buying a 'proper' headset and then a modmic if you do need the microphone.
Just feels to me that a lot of the gamer brands aren't actually that good in sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Sat, 07 July 2018, 07:11:42
So happy for this thread! I've had a set of SteelSeries for probably, I don't know, 10 years now and while they work okay, they're very old and I feel like it's past time to get something new. Definitely going to be reading back through this thread for some ideas.


what budget you looking at?
Yeah budget would be nice to know.
Also I am a fan of buying a 'proper' headset and then a modmic if you do need the microphone.
Just feels to me that a lot of the gamer brands aren't actually that good in sound.


don't bother with a modmic, just get a desktop mic and have a cable less to mess with ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: SJHL on Sun, 15 July 2018, 19:44:35

(https://imgur.com/yGCkk8J.jpg)

First time working with audio cable. Previously had Logitech G930.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 28 August 2018, 21:50:37
Just got another pair of headphone after a lengthy hiatus (for me anyway), it's an ENIGMAcoustics Dharma D1000. Each cup has a hybrid electret + dynamic driver configuration. So far, initial impression is that it has a pretty wide soundstage, cannot match the HD800 but similar to the AKG K812, with sparkly treble and nice mid bass slam (far from basshead level though), certainly more enjoyable than the HD800 for Pop songs since it does have a pretty nice presence.

I've been waiting patiently for one to become available in the local Garage section of the local forums, when this beaut turned up for about 660USD, I was all over it like a bad rash. :D
(https://i.imgur.com/5nhqy1B.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 29 August 2018, 09:29:38
im back in the market for some TOTL ciems possibly :)))
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kinglukas38 on Wed, 12 September 2018, 15:30:28
my ciems after 2 years of constant use and borderline abuse

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1894/44593213192_5fa78a568f_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aWxSFj)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 12 September 2018, 15:32:54
my ciems after 2 years of constant use and borderline abuse

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1894/44593213192_5fa78a568f_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aWxSFj)

nice im getting new ones soon going to shanghai for headphone festival in november.

my right connector on my nobles is loose :\
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: kinglukas38 on Wed, 12 September 2018, 15:37:35
my ciems after 2 years of constant use and borderline abuse

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1894/44593213192_5fa78a568f_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aWxSFj)

nice im getting new ones soon going to shanghai for headphone festival in november.

my right connector on my nobles is loose :\

that sucks :/
fortunately when these get damaged, and they have been multiple times, its a stones throw away to Minneapolis area for repair 
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sniping on Wed, 12 September 2018, 16:46:45
I don't have CIEM's but I had two pairs of UE Triple Fi 10's that both eventually broke on me. I went through over 5 cables between the two pairs of IEM's and eventually the shell started breaking on me and the cable connector on the IEM. After having so many mishaps I've downgraded to KZ IEM's, which aren't as good but for $20 balanced armatures I think it recreates the sound I was used to hearing with my old IEM's and I'm pretty happy with my purchase
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rockosmodlife on Fri, 14 September 2018, 14:26:08
I use a pair of Sennheiser HD 598's in black. Really love the sound and the comfort.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Mon, 17 September 2018, 20:56:58
Managed to snag a used HD600 at about 110USD, the headband cushion/pad needed to be replaced (already did in my pic). The best part is, the can is in near mint condition and sounds terrific.....now I get why it is so loved in the audio community.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y2NDMsa.jpg)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Mon, 17 September 2018, 21:14:28
Managed to snag a used HD600 at about 110USD, the headband cushion/pad needed to be replaced (already did in my pic). The best part is, the can is in near mint condition and sounds terrific.....now I get why it is so loved in the audio community.
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/Y2NDMsa.jpg)


i mean, if YOU're saying they're good they must be pretty good
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlindAssassin111 on Mon, 17 September 2018, 21:17:36
Managed to snag a used HD600 at about 110USD, the headband cushion/pad needed to be replaced (already did in my pic). The best part is, the can is in near mint condition and sounds terrific.....now I get why it is so loved in the audio community.
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/Y2NDMsa.jpg)


I have never like the sound of Sennheiser cans...but then again that is my opinion. Those look really nice though.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Tue, 18 September 2018, 01:09:13
Just got my Audeze Mobius in, first very early impression is good & comfy, but I'll have to do some extended listening in various scenarios. Haven't had much time after an after-work pub crawl yesterday. I do love how the cover of the manual is an homage to the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy :D
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: dvdasa on Tue, 18 September 2018, 06:30:53
I have never like the sound of Sennheiser cans...but then again that is my opinion. Those look really nice though.

What is your taste? Sennheiser is damn nice.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 18 September 2018, 09:33:45

i mean, if YOU're saying they're good they must be pretty good
I think they're great, like the HD6XX which is a tad warmer with perhaps a little, a smidgen really, more bass. But then, our preference is so colored by our own personal taste and hearing....the old saying's so true when it comes to audio, "One man's meat is another man's poison".



I have never like the sound of Sennheiser cans...but then again that is my opinion. Those look really nice though.
See? Case in point....I'm curious though, what is your sound preference?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlindAssassin111 on Tue, 18 September 2018, 11:52:08
See? Case in point....I'm curious though, what is your sound preference?

I prefer as neutral as possible and a larger sound stage. Just bought the HiFiMan HE4XX so will see how those sound.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: tp4tissue on Tue, 18 September 2018, 13:51:45
See? Case in point....I'm curious though, what is your sound preference?

I prefer as neutral as possible and a larger sound stage. Just bought the HiFiMan HE4XX so will see how those sound.

I would say Sennheiser is always On Point and Reference focused..

The other guys are more sound Colorists..  They like to sell the term _Warm_, and _Transparent_
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Tue, 18 September 2018, 14:02:14
See? Case in point....I'm curious though, what is your sound preference?

I prefer as neutral as possible and a larger sound stage. Just bought the HiFiMan HE4XX so will see how those sound.


HE4XX is an awesome value for money. Will be giving mine to a friend now though, show him what good sounds like ;)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: rioc on Tue, 18 September 2018, 14:04:05
I have never like the sound of Sennheiser cans...but then again that is my opinion. Those look really nice though.

What is your taste? Sennheiser is damn nice.
Sennheiser is great... I love my HD700 trebble canons (allthough now I've got the mobius I won't be using them for gaming as much anymore, but for classical music etc. (or on my ePiano)). Can't wait for Dekoni to finally release the custom pads for them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlindAssassin111 on Tue, 18 September 2018, 14:56:52
Sennheiser is great... I love my HD700 trebble canons (allthough now I've got the mobius I won't be using them for gaming as much anymore, but for classical music etc. (or on my ePiano)). Can't wait for Dekoni to finally release the custom pads for them.

I have seen three camps for Sennheiser, I am in the "Don't like and won't buy, but won't give hate" camp. I have just never liked the sounds for the ones I have listened to(also can't remember which ones at this point I have, too many numbers to remember lol), If you like them then good for you, have fun with listening to them because that is all that matters in the end. I have heard electrostatics that didn't even do it for me because the cost doesn't really justify the sound, but the guy who had them loved them to death, I just didn't see any gain in clarity that was truly worth the cost.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Tue, 18 September 2018, 21:24:03
I have seen three camps for Sennheiser, I am in the "Don't like and won't buy, but won't give hate" camp. I have just never liked the sounds for the ones I have listened to(also can't remember which ones at this point I have, too many numbers to remember lol), If you like them then good for you, have fun with listening to them because that is all that matters in the end. I have heard electrostatics that didn't even do it for me because the cost doesn't really justify the sound, but the guy who had them loved them to death, I just didn't see any gain in clarity that was truly worth the cost.
Likewise, I don't hate on other other can makers as well, hell I have cans from Audio Technica (ATH-A900X LTD, ATH-R70X, ATH-AD700X), HiFiMan (HE1000, HE560, HE4, HE4XX), Denon (AH-D7000, AH-D2000), AKG (K812)....in fact, I have way too many cans and I've decided to sell some of my lower end cans. I get that you want a neutral'ish cans, but just about all cans are colored since a truly neutral can would sound......boring, wouldn't it?
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlindAssassin111 on Tue, 18 September 2018, 23:07:21
I get that you want a neutral'ish cans, but just about all cans are colored since a truly neutral can would sound......boring, wouldn't it?

Neutral wouldn't be boring, it would be the best representation to what the audio should be, it would be like listening to it in person rather than through headphones. Is it possible to be truly neutral, no but that is my preference to be as close to that as I can get on a lowish budget, which is hard but I really hope the HE4XX's sound as good as I have heard they are.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 19 September 2018, 01:02:55
ur confusing neutral with natural.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlindAssassin111 on Wed, 19 September 2018, 01:25:26
ur confusing neutral with natural.

Not really, neutral would describe headphones that don't favor any frequency range in particular and therefore have a flat response. Natural may also describe the same thing, but it doesn't mean what I said is wrong.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: PadawanGeek on Wed, 19 September 2018, 01:39:26
ur confusing neutral with natural.

Not really, neutral would describe headphones that don't favor any frequency range in particular and therefore have a flat response. Natural may also describe the same thing, but it doesn't mean what I said is wrong.
I dunno, I do agree with Sifo that there's a difference between 'neutral' and 'natural'.....I've never studied the audio field, but I don't think a completely neutral headphone would necessarily sound natural.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: suicidal_orange on Wed, 19 September 2018, 02:42:45
Can't get more natural than wood yet the JVC FX woodies area anything but neutral :))


In other related news I found some pads for my old Ultrasone Pro 750, after years of looking they're back on the official Ultrasone site so after two attempted orders to get one through intact they'll be here in a couple of days and no import tax.  Expecting the package and pads to arrive ripped, such is my luck lately.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Fri, 19 October 2018, 22:13:00
Found a pair of Samson SR850 headphones on Amazon (new, sold by Amazon themselves--yes, I know they too sometimes have fakes, but eh) for about 30 bucks. Since my mom basically stole my MDR-V6's (themselves replacing a pair of M40x's that were broken when a thief tried to steal them), and because I found the grain on the highs irritating, I was hoping I could get these in a couple of months rather than get her a pair to get the V6's back. Open back apparently tends to have better sound stage (only open back phones I've ever owned are the Koss Sport-A-Pros, which I can't stand since I got better cans), which I know will be a plus, but I hope I'm not sacrificing too much sound quality for the price...

Hoping the v-shaped sound profile isn't too severe. Everywhere I've read, they've been described as having a "slight" one. I mean, I know the V6 isn't particularly flat, so I'm not too worried about that.

Any thoughts, or better recommendations? January 1st I'll be getting a pretty decent pay increase, but I'll also be paying about 38 dollars more a month in rent... which is 340 right now after housing voucher deductions (I make 750 bucks a month, but will be making 775 or so on the first; the complex is raising rent--which typically I end up eating the difference for a few months before the housing authority works it out---and I'll be needing to start paying an additional 8 bucks a month for liability insurance due to changes in the lease starting December 1st, so...)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlindAssassin111 on Fri, 19 October 2018, 22:48:11
Found a pair of Samson SR850 headphones on Amazon (new, sold by Amazon themselves--yes, I know they too sometimes have fakes, but eh) for about 30 bucks. Since my mom basically stole my MDR-V6's (themselves replacing a pair of M40x's that were broken when a thief tried to steal them), and because I found the grain on the highs irritating, I was hoping I could get these in a couple of months rather than get her a pair to get the V6's back. Open back apparently tends to have better sound stage (only open back phones I've ever owned are the Koss Sport-A-Pros, which I can't stand since I got better cans), which I know will be a plus, but I hope I'm not sacrificing too much sound quality for the price...

Hoping the v-shaped sound profile isn't too severe. Everywhere I've read, they've been described as having a "slight" one. I mean, I know the V6 isn't particularly flat, so I'm not too worried about that.

Any thoughts, or better recommendations? January 1st I'll be getting a pretty decent pay increase, but I'll also be paying about 38 dollars more a month in rent... which is 340 right now after housing voucher deductions (I make 750 bucks a month, but will be making 775 or so on the first; the complex is raising rent--which typically I end up eating the difference for a few months before the housing authority works it out---and I'll be needing to start paying an additional 8 bucks a month for liability insurance due to changes in the lease starting December 1st, so...)

I had the Superlux HD668B's for a long time (Same thing as the SR850's) and They are known to have sibilant highs, but if you get velour pads they sound really good for what they are. Honestly loved them because they were amazing for how cheap they are. Upgraded to the HiFiMan HE-4XX after the HD668B's broke for the second time.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Fri, 19 October 2018, 22:53:57
I know the Beyerdynamic velour pads were nice. I had them on my first pair of V6's, then the 7506's I got after our then-young & naive kitty Avery got tangled in them, freaked out, ripped them apart trying to get free and they had to be replaced, then the M40x's I got after when my mom had a seizure while borrowing the 7506's and accidentally ran them over with her wheelchair, and then the new V6's when my mom defended the M40x's from a thief who managed to break them but didn't get away with them. Unfortunately, the pads didn't last long on the newest pair of V6's, because of all the abuse they went through over 4 different headsets... I think I'll add them to my list haha. I loved those things.

Yeah, I guess you might see why I'm attracted to the reduced price.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: BlindAssassin111 on Fri, 19 October 2018, 23:00:03
Yeah, I guess you might see why I'm attracted to the reduced price.

Honestly have debated about buying another pair just to have around because I did like them. And for the longest time I didn't want to spend the money on good ones because I was in college and had no income.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Fri, 19 October 2018, 23:29:21
I'm honestly lucky if I have 90 dollars for the whole month left over after bills, groceries and whatnot. As I mentioned, I make only 750 dollars a month, and rent seems to rise every year (although the housing authority eventually steps in to level out the cost). To top it off, our local power company--KCP&L--changed how they figure budget billing, which means rather than a stable constant price, I now get to look forward to a brand new one pulled out of their rear every 3 months. Past three months it was 207 a month. The next 3 months will be 185. I'm using about 127 dollars worth of power a month, but due to how they constantly adjust the price people not on budget billing pay, I would have to pay a one time fee of 360 dollars to get off of budget billing and not have my power shut off. Headphones higher in quality than the V6 are out of the question, as are the V6/7506 and M40x themselves if they aren't on sale for about 30 - 40 dollars off. So combined with the tendency for things to break and the lack of income, the SR850 is the most I'm willing to shell out for, and right now the best I (sadly) can afford. :(

Will be grabbing a pair of BRAINWAVZ XL velour pads when I do get them though. That will either be as a gift during Christmas, or in January when I'll very briefly have about 100 dollars left over after everything. I hope they're as good as the Beyerdynamics I had, because apparently the Brainwavz are the only ones I can find that will fit the SR850.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 07 November 2018, 16:32:31
hell yeah
(https://preview.redd.it/8h2s2kniiyw11.jpg?width=476&auto=webp&s=84d520140f6df52a7e226f4ad3eb92a62e104464)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Sifo on Wed, 07 November 2018, 20:26:24
canjam was dope. still no idea what I wanna get but trying everything was fun
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: ra7c7er on Sat, 10 November 2018, 08:06:08
Heil Pro-Set 3

I didn't think I would like broadcast headphones but WOW they are great and I can confuse the ears off of anyone by playing with the phase switch when someone wants to listen with them.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: no, the other guy on Sat, 10 November 2018, 12:34:23
I love my Beyerdynamic DT-770. I wanted to save money to get myself a DT-990 as well (those sound awesome), but I only have two ears and one head...
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Flame on Sat, 10 November 2018, 21:28:35
Definitely not audiophile-grade or the best headphones, but I'm rocking my Bose QC 35s. The noise canceling and optional wireless is pretty nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/pUkjhsI.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Lepr3chaun on Sun, 11 November 2018, 09:36:08
Definitely not audiophile-grade or the best headphones, but I'm rocking my Bose QC 35s. The noise canceling and optional wireless is pretty nice.
Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/pUkjhsI.jpg?1)


I have and use the QC 35 IIs quite a bit. Like you said not audiophile quality but love them for travel or at work if I need to block things out.
Title: Re: Headphone Thread.
Post by: Carcharocles on Thu, 27 December 2018, 18:02:46
Don't have pictures (yet) but I got a pair of Samson SR850's for Christmas. Not the best I've heard so far (those are the M40x's I got on sale years ago) but definitely fantastic bang for buck. I think I like their sound signature more than the MDR-V6; I've given my pair of those to my mom, who loves their sound quality.