Yes they are definitley easy to drive. Ive auditioned both the open version as well as the closed version, most recently earlier today in fact, using only my Galaxy s4.
I often prefer open-backed headphones but for some reason I always prefer the closed EL-8.
I think it has something to do with the EL-8 sound signature imo sounding more coherent and retaining its unique sound better in the closed version.
The headphones are supremely comfortable with no clamping force (as opposed to the clamping force of some Sennheisers and the PSB - M4U).The ear cups are quite big over your ears, not as big as HD800.
The build quality is seriously good. It feels like almost all metal. They look and feel completely solid. No creaking when spinning the cups.
Imo the wood veneer looks bad. Id seen pictures beforehand that for some reason were taken in low lighting and the wood looked amazing with good color.
In person the wood looks cheap, almost plastic like. But im not sure because id also seen pictures of EL-8 where ypu could clearly see it was wood grain in a close up.
Alot of people complain tbe sound sig is weird and shouty and bright. I can see what they mean but I personally like the bright nature of a lot of Grados so for me its fine.
The planar bass has some texture, goes deep without being boomy or muddy even in the slightest bit.
Overall I have chosen the even brighter Grado 325e with bowl cups over the EL-8 this time for its wonderful sparkle, its ability to really remind me what open-backed headphones can do, it's stunning clarity and extreme transparency. And all for 300 USD.
At some point I will hear the EL-8 again with my new Sony PHA-1A portable amp and see if that makes the 32ohm EL-8 better in some way.
Ill definitley keep auditioning the EL-8.
