In that case, might as well aim for the HD800S used. From what I understand, it's not just the damping material, but also some engineering that went into taming the 6Khz peak. Also, there's another HD800 mod popular recently, Tyll was talking about it here

There's better amps to use with the HD800/S, doubt you'll be taking it outside much anyway. But yes, synergy is the name of the game. If you're committed, think it over and go for it

The main reason I never considered it is because it doesn't play well with planars, by several accounts. If you're only running the 800/800S with it, no worries. But as I wanted to use several different types of headphones from various makers, didn't think it was worth it.

I'm a very huge fan of Schiit Audio, because their products have a great performance/price ratio. I started from their entry level, moved up to the Lyr 2 tube/SS hybrid, and am now at the Mjolnir 2 hybrid. You should give them a try also, much better value than CA or Sennheiser, and pretty much almost anyone else out there. If you're really committed to going to TOTL gear, that's a different story la, but for mid-tier gear, I don't think anyone comes close.

Alternatively, there's also Decware (US-made) and Feliks Audio (Polish) for tube-only amps that are highly-rated (know several contacts that love theirs). I generally steer clear from the China-made stuff because I don't trust their power components.

PS. I bought direct from Schiit Audio and had it shipped back, made sure to confirm there's no issue with warranty first as well. If you're interested in either of the others, you should also contact them first.

This post has been edited by echineko: Mar 15 2016, 09:07 PM

There's also the first-gen Mjolnir, but you'll have to wait for one to show up used

Edit: While I was pondering the Ragnarok, I did contact Schiit to ask if they modify the voltage (115V to 230V) on their products. Apparently they do, but you'll have to purchase your amp first, and then send it in to them, they charge up to $100 for the service, depending on model. In case you're thinking of getting a used unit from the States.

This post has been edited by echineko: Mar 15 2016, 11:02 PM

You channeling Jason again?

Sennheiser's answer to the Parrot Zik? Looks like a good option for use in flights, how's the build etc?

Interesting. Good luck with that, hope to hear some good feedback later.

Meanwhile, I'm decidedly a fan of these.




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The 009 is my home setup, won't be leaving with me when I travel for work/fun. The transportable setup is Sony ZX2 -> Chord Hugo -> ZMF Omni/ HD 800S/ TH 900/ LCD X (rotation based on my mood).

Added these in the mix since I felt the sound signature would complement those I already had, and I was right

At home, it's still Stax uber alles

This post has been edited by echineko: Sep 18 2016, 09:03 PM

I was listening to the Jon Bellion album recently with the 800S, sounded really good. Don't know if you'd consider that pop or not?

That would depend very much on what your definition of good is. But as for the headphones themselves, they're worthy of their flagship status.

Massdrop version of the HD650, anyone?

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/massdrop-sennheiser-hd6xx

Usually me too, but in this case I'll stick with what I already have from Sennheiser

On another note, the more cynical part of me wonders if this is just a prelude to the HD650 being discontinued/replaced. Hmm...

This post has been edited by echineko: Nov 4 2016, 11:29 AM

Student sales are usually domestic only, so technically that's 5% less than regular export prices, from retailers that ship outside the EU

Good thing VAT rebate is year round

Nothing to wonder, as has been stated repeatedly , there is no consistency in the implementation of the duties/tax. We know what the rates are SUPPOSED to be, but we can't predict what they will actually end up being.

Same exact product, same manufacturer, same packaging and description, similar ship date, varying results. That tells you all you need to know

Too bad the same can't be said of their distributors

Lulz, is it that obvious

Didn't you already try it last year? But then I did too, and booked a spot anyway Did you also get in for the Smyth Realiser? Worth trying, it impressed me during the last demo.