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  1. #1
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    Headphones, got any favorites?

    This popular $10 billion/year industry has kind of snuck up on some of us. I never thought I would be selling $4000 headphones and $12,000 headphone amp/DAC’s!

    I’ve heard some really good headphones at the various shows, like those from Audeze. I think it was the LCD-3 (not their top model) that I really liked. The complete turnkey solution from Sonoma Acoustics is another I really like. The Focal Utopia’s and Clears are superb.

    What are some of your favorites?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
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  2. #2

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Grado - GS1000e sounded amazing to me. It sounded to me like a well balanced headphone but with no veil in mids and treble. Sounds energetic to me.


    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  3. #3
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    My WooAudio WA6Se, Mr Speaker Ether C Flow, HD600's, LCD-3's

    Some nice headphones amps, Bakoon, Woo WA 22, Violectric V281, Headamp Blue Hawaii, Schiit Lyr 2, Schiit Mjolnir2

    Cans: 800s,(owned sold and got the LCD-3) Stax SR009,( just awesome) Beyer T5p, Hifiman HE400s ,. Haven't heard the Focal's Mike talks about

    I enjoy headphones,
    2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)

  4. #4
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I'm pleased with my Sennheiser HD800 and Sennheiser HDVA 600 balanced Class A headphone amplifier I use in my office.


    Dan

    STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax,
    Sonos Connect, Stillpoints Ultra SS & Ultra Mini, PurePower 2000, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario

    LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable,
    Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113

    VINTAGE - McIntosh 4300V, McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, JBL 4312A

  5. #5
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I use B&W PXs on the go. Prefer speakers.

  6. #6

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by CPP View Post
    My WooAudio WA6Se, Mr Speaker Ether C Flow, HD600's, LCD-3's

    Some nice headphones amps, Bakoon, Woo WA 22, Violectric V281, Headamp Blue Hawaii, Schiit Lyr 2, Schiit Mjolnir2

    Cans: 800s,(owned sold and got the LCD-3) Stax SR009,( just awesome) Beyer T5p, Hifiman HE400s ,. Haven't heard the Focal's Mike talks about

    I enjoy headphones,
    I'm hearing that the Focals excel in a unique dynamism. I've talked to people who couldn't get over how dynamic and punchy the Elear sounded but weren't blown away by bass extension and treble so they moved to the Utopia and couldn't live without that kind of sound now.

    Any opinions on the Schiit Jotunheim? I'd like to get that amp and then rent headphones from The Cable Company until i find one or two that pair well with it.

    Any opinions on which He400 version is best?

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  7. #7

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I heard the Stax 009 and the Blue Hawaii Headphone Amp (tube based) once. It was an amazing combo.

  8. #8
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    My friend was telling me he loved his 009’s today. I have to hear those.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  9. #9

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Ye the 009's are said to be unreal a unique experience. I hear the same about the Stax L700 ear -speakers.


    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    The complete turnkey solution from Sonoma Acoustics is another I really like.
    I thought these were some kind of STAX. Any chance you could elaborate on these any impressions of the build and sound?




    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  10. #10
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by rfan8312 View Post
    Ye the 009's are said to be unreal a unique experience. I hear the same about the Stax L700 ear -speakers.




    I thought these were some kind of STAX. Any chance you could elaborate on these any impressions of the build and sound?




    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk
    I first heard the Sonoma headphone system about 3 years ago when they were in prototype phase at CES. They were unreal. So live sound and transparent to whatever was being fed them. Engaging as heck. Very transparent. I’m not a bass nut, so they were great for me.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  11. #11

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Amazing. I have a few photos of these saved since I first saw them. I'm not a base-nut either, probably why I like Grados so much.

    Amazing. That kind of energy and engaging sound is something I look for. I listen to mostly instrumental music and that kind of sound really brings everything to life. Will do my best to get a chance to hear these thanks.

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  12. #12
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    The Grados are excellent and comfortable.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  13. #13

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    The Grados are excellent and comfortable.
    Ye I use huge G-cush pads on my 325e but actually the regular softvpads that came with sr60 (interchangeable pads) are so comfortable the headphones seem to disappear when i wear them.

    I'm so glad to be in this hobby because I expect in my life as i progress at work and earn more one day I'll be able to hear these cans mentioned in this thread.

    I actually hope to get my first Schiit, Audeze and Focal products this year and more Grado lol.

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  14. #14
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by rfan8312 View Post
    Ye I use huge G-cush pads on my 325e but actually the regular softvpads that came with sr60 (interchangeable pads) are so comfortable the headphones seem to disappear when i wear them.

    I'm so glad to be in this hobby because I expect in my life as i progress at work and earn more one day I'll be able to hear these cans mentioned in this thread.

    I actually hope to get my first Schiit, Audeze and Focal products this year and more Grado lol.

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk
    I really like Audeze too. Not sure why, but the LCD-3 is my favorite. I have to say, these Focal Utopia headphones are just superb. Best I’ve ever heard.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  15. #15
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    At one time I had a stable of headphones for all types of music. Sennheiser Hd-800 for classical and the widest soundstage, Fostex Th-900 for Rock, Audeze XC and Audeze LCD-4 for jazz, Hifi-man He500 for everything else.
    Sorta like being to afford and house a pair of Harbeths, Magnepans, Wilson’s, Avantguards, and Magicos at one time in your study.
    My amps were an Eddie Current E-445 tube amp and a Audio-Gd Master 9 Solid state paired with my old Yggdrasil dac.
    Larry


    Lumin U1
    Chord Dave Dac
    Vac Master Preamp
    Vac 200IQ Amp
    Magico S3 Mk2 in Mcast Pewter
    Denali 6000S
    Ansuz and MIT cabling
    Timbernation walnut racks

  16. #16

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Stax SR-009; best headphones ever. Hard to amp right though.

  17. #17

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    https://youtu.be/HqHBfgKQjAM

    In this video reviewer Zeos claims that the Elears have a signature that to him sounds like as if there were a grid with a hundred points on it over each ear, and sounds can be clearly discerned coming from any one of those hundred points.

    Not sure if i understood him correctly. Am i just babbling or would that be an accurate way of describing the sound of Elears and possibly Utopia?

    Here the same reviewer talks about how great the Stax 2170 is.
    https://youtu.be/1l0EtAF_lEk

    I've heard people say though that nothing can beat 009 properly driven. I wonder if any of the new Hifiman like Susvara or the Abyss 1266 can compete.



    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  18. #18
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by rfan8312 View Post
    I'm hearing that the Focals excel in a unique dynamism. I've talked to people who couldn't get over how dynamic and punchy the Elear sounded but weren't blown away by bass extension and treble so they moved to the Utopia and couldn't live without that kind of sound now.

    Any opinions on the Schiit Jotunheim? I'd like to get that amp and then rent headphones from The Cable Company until i find one or two that pair well with it.

    Any opinions on which He400 version is best?

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk
    The model I heard was the 400i, sweet, soothing, and non-fatiguing over long listening sessions. For the price, not bad

    Never heard the Jotunheim
    2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)

  19. #19

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Like the Hifiman HE-1000 v2 or Edition X v2. Great balance for all kinds of music.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

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    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  20. #20
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Just the last two weeks I am thinking about a headphone-corner to use it
    - when the living room is busy
    and
    - if I need a neutral, highly resolving benchmark for my ears

    In order to reach this target I listened last Friday to a Stax SR-009 and a L-700 with a heavy modified Stax T1. It was really a impressive experience although not all components (analog source and cables were not good enough) played at the same level. The SR-009 divided the sound in small slices without becoming too analytical. Completely different to the listening experience of my home system (soundstage in the head) but absolutely interesting and valuable & musically for my ears. I think I will continue the headphone-plan. :-)

    For the headphone-part, I have in my mind
    - Stax SR-009/L-700/SR-007 (one of them)
    - Audeze LCD i4 (should be a phantastic in-ear)
    - HiFi-Man HE-1000 V2
    - Focal Utopia

    For the Amps here in Europe it is not so easy because the Blue Hawai SE (Sota for Stax) is not really easy available. So I will look for modified malvalve-amp (MK 5) or a Paltauf-amp. For the dynamic HP I can imagine a Chord Hugo2/TT/Dave as an HP-amp.

    For on-the-go (mobile) I am using an Astell & Kern KANN with a Beyerdynamic T5p, which is for me a combo with a good price-performance-ratio.

    In any case traveling on this road makes a lot of fun.

  21. #21
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I love my Audeze LCD-XC's paired with the Deckard. Great combo.

  22. #22

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    ZMF Auteur Blackwood, Audeze LCD-3, Sennheiser HD600, Fostex TH-X00 Ebony, E-MU Teak. In that particular order. Everything else sold. In terms of amps I am loving the PrimaLuna HP, Luxman L590AXII, Woo Audio WA6, Audeze Deckard and SPL Phonitor 2730B in that particular order, everything else sold

  23. #23
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    For me headphones are a casual experience and comfort is the most important. I have a pair of the Massdrop HD6XX that sound very nice, but I still prefer my HD598 for the sheer comfort and lightweight design. I realize its a high end sector that focuses highly on fidelity, but I still can't bring myself to throw serious money at them.

  24. #24
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Last month we held a Can Jam for our audio club. There were various amps being used. One of our members brought his Woo 22, another the Bryston that I traded him. Several pair of Audeze were there, my MrSpeakers, a nice pair of HiFi Man, and a pair of the Focal Clear. Several other lower end models also.

    My preference was the HiFi Man, and then my MrSpeakers. The Audeze were very nice, but like all Audeze, to me they are not as comfortable.

    The general consensus; people seemed to really like the Focal, MrSpeakers, and Audeze the best.... some really liked the HiFi Man also.

    I owned a pair of the HD800S, which were superb. I end up selling them after getting the MrSpeakers. I just never listened to them any more, the Ether were just that much better and more comfortable.

    Recently I have been using my headphones more, again. So I bought a one year old Dennis Hap Dragon Inspire amplifier with a couple sets of tubes. It is supposed to arrive next week. From everything I have read it appears to be a great headphone amp. My friend with the Woo 22 is excited to compare. He is very into tubes (has a ton of extras) and wants to try rolling some with it.
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  25. #25
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I got the Abyss AB-1266 Phi CC last week. There is nothing like it, period. It sounds like floorstander speakers attached to your head.

  26. #26

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by vortrex View Post
    I got the Abyss AB-1266 Phi CC last week. There is nothing like it, period. It sounds like floorstander speakers attached to your head.
    Unbelievable. Any idea how they compare to LCD-4?

    I've always wondered if a can out there can combine clear articulated extended low-end that has texture, with, sparkling high end with great resolution up there.

    Right now I have a few cans including he400i that I like for it's resolution and textured highs and mids. I'll buy LCD-2C for extended textured engaging low end.

    I've just always wondered if there's a can that has both great highs and great lows all in one.

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  27. #27
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I was set on moving from the Utopia to the LCD-4 because I had the LCD-3F and liked the bass with those. Then a LCD-4 owner (and former Utopia owner) heard the Abyss and bought them on the spot. He said there was nothing the LCD-4 could do at the level of the Abyss. I took a chance and bought them without a demo. These are a different animal than other headphones and it's apparent in the first few seconds on your head. Drive these with a good amp (I'm using an Allnic HPA-3000 GT) and you will forget about your speaker system. Percussion is stunning. The sound is big, powerful, dynamic, textured, detailed. No grain, no molasses, no sibilance. On top of that, the build quality makes other headphones feel like toys. The fit is a little strange since there is no clamping pressure. They only rest on your head and cover your ears. This takes some getting used to.


    Quote Originally Posted by rfan8312 View Post
    Unbelievable. Any idea how they compare to LCD-4?

    I've always wondered if a can out there can combine clear articulated extended low-end that texture, with, sparkling high end with great resolution up there.

    Right now u have a few cans including he400i that I like for it's resolution and textured highs and mids. I'll buy LCD-2C for extended textured engaging low end.

    I've just always wondered if there's a can that has both great highs and great lows all in one.

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  28. #28
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    The Abyss appear to be amazing... I guess at $5k they had better be. To me comfort is very important, open smooth sounding... I really liked the HD800S when I owned a pair, but I felt that the MrSpeakers were just that much better. They are also the most comfortable headphone I have ever listened to. If I were looking for cans in that range the Abyss would certainly be on the list.
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

    “One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
    "You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
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  29. #29
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I have Senns 800 with Bryston headphone amp. This works quite well for me. I also have Senns 600 that I changed the cables. This was a large improvement on the 600s.

  30. #30
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    This is a pretty new world for me, but am currently really liking the HIFIMAN Sundara powered by an iFi xDSD. Quite shocking the sound quality for the money.

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  31. #31
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    A really good headphone that is underrated is the Pioneer SE-MASTER1. I've had the Fostex TH900, Audeze LCD-3F, Mr. Speakers Ether Flow, Sony Z1R, Focal Elear, and Focal Utopia. I feel the Pioneer were easily better than all those in sound quality, comfort, and build quality except the Utopia. The Pioneer was built better and more comfortable, but overall not at the same level of performance as the Utopia. On some tracks I did prefer the Pioneer though since the bass was better. I'm selling mine now since the Abyss is the undisputed king.

  32. #32
    mauidan
    Guest

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    For the money, I think it's hard to beat the Sennheiser HD 600.

    I would like to try the new Abyss Diana, has anyone heard them?

  33. #33

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Wow man interesting that you bring up Abyss Diana.

    I thought they were ugly, compared to AB1266, when the Diana first came out. Now they look incredible to me.

    If I could afford the Diana or whatever is needed to drive it I'd try it out in a heartbeat.


    Btw, thanks for tip about that Pioneer. Anyone care to mention how Abyss sounds?

    Quote Originally Posted by vortrex View Post
    These are a different animal than other headphones and it's apparent in the first few seconds on your head. Drive these with a good amp (I'm using an Allnic HPA-3000 GT) and you will forget about your speaker system. Percussion is stunning. The sound is big, powerful, dynamic, textured, detailed. No grain, no molasses, no sibilance. On top of that, the build quality makes other headphones feel like toys. The fit is a little strange since there is no clamping pressure. They only rest on your head and cover your ears. This takes some getting used to.
    Oh right, there it is lol. Very enticing. Sounds amazing. I check d out that Allnic HPA-3000 looks amazing.

    I spoke online to a guy on a Facebook Head-Fi post he made, he got the Diana and loves it.

    https://m.facebook.com/groups/462353...56726288334736




    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  34. #34
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I’ve always liked Stax ever since I purchased my first pair over 30 years ago. They just sounded right, never too bright or boomy and very comfortable.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  35. #35

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I recently got the new Stax SR-009S, and now they’re right up there with the old 009 as my favorites. Still not sure which of the two is on top though, out of my T2 amp. On any other amp, the new 009S wins.

  36. #36
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I recently picked up a Dennis Hap Dragon Inspire headphone amp. Seems to be a very nice tube amp that really works well with some rolling fun.

    I really like my MrSpeakers Ether... excellent planer cans that are ultra comfortable. At a recent can jam that we held for our audio club, and discussing with members afterwards it appears as if the Focal Clear were the run away winner. We had a variety of headphones.... several lower level models, such as my KEF M500s, and several nicer models. Two pair of Audeze LCD-3, one older and one with the new mods. A pair of HiFiMan 1000 v2's, my MrSpeakers, etc. The Focal Clear really shined and appears as if they were the favorite.

    Since I am using my headphones much more lately I wanted to get something different then my planers but can not afford things like the Abyss. I ended up ordering a pair of the Clears. Really looking forward to their arrival and being able to switch off and on between the Focal and the MrSpeakers.
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  37. #37

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    ^incredible. Congrats man please leave an impression of your experience with the Clear.

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  38. #38
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by rfan8312 View Post
    ^incredible. Congrats man please leave an impression of your experience with the Clear.

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk
    Should be fun.... now comes the waiting for them to arrive!
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

    “One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
    "You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
    ― Neil deGrasse Tyson

  39. #39

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Always a bit if a nail biter for me. I wish I could forget it and do other things but I end up just pining for the UPS truck like a child lol.



    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  40. #40
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Recommend amps choice(S) for:
    Abyss AB - 1266 Phi CC
    and
    Stax SR - 009S.
    Thank you
    Avantgarde Zero 1 XD
    Aurender N100H
    Oppo BDP - 105D
    Sony A8F 65“ Drop dead gorgeous picture.

  41. #41
    Banned
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by Toomey View Post
    Recommend amps choice(S) for:
    Abyss AB - 1266 Phi CC
    and
    Stax SR - 009S.
    Thank you
    Eleven XIAUDIO Broadway

  42. #42
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I try to listen to as many headphones as I can at the various shows. I always liked the Audeze LCD-3, and preferred it to the newer LCD-4 and X. Stax were always good, as well as some of the HiFi man headphones. I really do like the combo of the Chord DAVE with the Focal Utopia headphones. To me, that’s a “lost in the music” type of experience.

    Comfort is so important for headphones as everyone knows. Some of the best sounding headphones are sadly also some of the most uncomfortable to wear long term. It’s hard to find that right balance.

    I haven’t found a lot of IEM’s I fancy yet. Still listening though.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

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  43. #43
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    I try to listen to as many headphones as I can at the various shows. I always liked the Audeze LCD-3, and preferred it to the newer LCD-4 and X. Stax were always good, as well as some of the HiFi man headphones. I really do like the combo of the Chord DAVE with the Focal Utopia headphones. To me, that’s a “lost in the music” type of experience.

    Comfort is so important for headphones as everyone knows. Some of the best sounding headphones are sadly also some of the most uncomfortable to wear long term. It’s hard to find that right balance.

    I haven’t found a lot of IEM’s I fancy yet. Still listening though.
    Best IEM I've ever heard and own a pair is JH Audio . They can custom fit them to your ears and have a very effective ear canal seal. . I have the JH16. Headquarters is Orlando.
    2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)

  44. #44

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    I try to listen to as many headphones as I can at the various shows. I always liked the Audeze LCD-3, and preferred it to the newer LCD-4 and X. Stax were always good, as well as some of the HiFi man headphones. I really do like the combo of the Chord DAVE with the Focal Utopia headphones. To me, that’s a “lost in the music” type of experience.

    Comfort is so important for headphones as everyone knows. Some of the best sounding headphones are sadly also some of the most uncomfortable to wear long term. It’s hard to find that right balance.

    I haven’t found a lot of IEM’s I fancy yet. Still listening though.
    Hi thanks. Any idea about LCD3 vs LCD2?

    I tried LCD2 recently and remembered how much I like that low end, and remembered how overrated I realized the discomfort comments about LCD2 are for me.

    I own he400i and love it's treble and mids coupled with planar bass. Now I'd like an LCD headphone for when I'm in the mood to hear punchy very extended and textured low end, even if I can only wear them for an hour due to weight. I've heard they are so heavy they can fall off if you tilt forward but that's fine with me.

    Is there any reason to select LCD3 over LCD2?

    Sent from my LG-LS998 using Tapatalk

  45. #45

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    I try to listen to as many headphones as I can at the various shows. I always liked the Audeze LCD-3, and preferred it to the newer LCD-4 and X. Stax were always good, as well as some of the HiFi man headphones. I really do like the combo of the Chord DAVE with the Focal Utopia headphones. To me, that’s a “lost in the music” type of experience.

    Comfort is so important for headphones as everyone knows. Some of the best sounding headphones are sadly also some of the most uncomfortable to wear long term. It’s hard to find that right balance.

    I haven’t found a lot of IEM’s I fancy yet. Still listening though.
    Get a listen to a Stax 009, 009S, or 007 (or even L700) with the HeadAmp Blue Hawaii SE (and obligatory great source), at a quieter time, if you haven't already. Stax are really at a disadvantage in show/meet settings because 1. they are just so much more OPEN than even other open headphones (no barrier to ambient noise), and 2. the demands for truly high-end electrostatic amplification are so much more difficult to satisfy, exacerbated by the fact that you may be tempted to raise the volume to combat a high-ambient-noise show/meet setting. The really, really great amps are typically on very short supply, even at big meets. The Blue Hawaii SE is really a large cut above most other electrostatic amplifiers (including Stax's current offerings), and it is the most likely of the "great amps" to appear at a show. A Stax 727 just sounds like mush by comparison.

    I am recklessly in love with Stax headphones given amazing amplification (now a T2, which I upgraded to from a BHSE). It competes with my big 2ch rig some days. Just sold my Utopias - great headphone which I really enjoyed, but easily eclipsed in all ways by a top-tier Stax setup.

    The amplifier quality is a much bigger deal with electrostats than it is with other headphone types. I should be considered part of the transducer. I harp on the amp issue a lot, but it's only because as a rabid enthusiast/hobbyist, the good stuff truly blows me away.

  46. #46
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    My friend was telling me he loved his 009’s today. I have to hear those.
    This would be my pick. I’ve owned Stax since the 80’s and love them.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  47. #47
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by mulveling View Post
    Get a listen to a Stax 009, 009S, or 007 (or even L700) with the HeadAmp Blue Hawaii SE (and obligatory great source), at a quieter time, if you haven't already. Stax are really at a disadvantage in show/meet settings because 1. they are just so much more OPEN than even other open headphones (no barrier to ambient noise), and 2. the demands for truly high-end electrostatic amplification are so much more difficult to satisfy, exacerbated by the fact that you may be tempted to raise the volume to combat a high-ambient-noise show/meet setting. The really, really great amps are typically on very short supply, even at big meets. The Blue Hawaii SE is really a large cut above most other electrostatic amplifiers (including Stax's current offerings), and it is the most likely of the "great amps" to appear at a show. A Stax 727 just sounds like mush by comparison.

    I am recklessly in love with Stax headphones given amazing amplification (now a T2, which I upgraded to from a BHSE). It competes with my big 2ch rig some days. Just sold my Utopias - great headphone which I really enjoyed, but easily eclipsed in all ways by a top-tier Stax setup.

    The amplifier quality is a much bigger deal with electrostats than it is with other headphone types. I should be considered part of the transducer. I harp on the amp issue a lot, but it's only because as a rabid enthusiast/hobbyist, the good stuff truly blows me away.
    I can't imagine trying to listen to headphones at a show. Even in my empty house there is a vast difference between listening at 2pm with the normally unnoticeable ambient noise versus listening after midnight when the environment is still. The AB-1266 and my amp have further burned in after running 24x7 for a few weeks. It is shocking how good they are. I too am thinking less and less about my speaker system.

  48. #48
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I agree, I can't imagine listening seriously to headphones at a show. I notice how much more enjoyable it is to listen to headphones when there is no extraneous back ground noise. For example when the grand son was watching some TV show downstairs yesterday versus listening to after my wife has gone to bed is a completely different experience.

    I would love to try the Abyss... but that would only be a consideration if headphones were my only listening experience. As it is now, I listen to my speakers a majority of the time and the headphones when I do not want to disturb others (wife or grand daughter sleeping or watching TV as an example).
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

    “One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
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  49. #49
    Senior Member
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    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    I'm quite fond of the two in my signature.
    B&W803D3; McIntosh MA9000 integrated amp; Esoteric K-03 SACD/CD player; VPI Prime Signature/Ortofon Cadenza Bronze; Sennheiser HD800S and AudezeLCD-XC headphones

  50. #50

    Re: Headphones, got any favorites?

    Quote Originally Posted by Bachtoven View Post
    I'm quite fond of the two in my signature.
    Agreed with the Sennheiser HD800S and PrimaLuna HP Integrated amp. Those two are a fabulous pairing.

    I have owned multiple high-end headphone amps and over 20 high end headphones from almost all the great brands, to include the legendary Sony MDR-R10. The pairing above is as good, or better than all I have tried. The first pairing I have used that really hit all my buttons and no significant flaws.
    Kevin

    Main: VPI Aries 3/Grado Reference3, and Aurender N200 > PS Audio DS DAC. Luxman L-509Z integrated amp. Sonus Faber Elipsa SE speakers. PS Audio P10 power. Transparent Audio, Cardas and Audioquest cables.

    Bar: EAT C-sharp/Hana MH, and exaSound s82 > Luxman L-595SE amp. GolderEar One.R speakers. Shunyata power, Audioquest cables.

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