Submitted by blucsigma05 t3_116hxg3 in headphones
Just a little fun Sunday question. What headphones/iems do you have, and if you could only keep one which pair would it be?
Comments
GregTheTwurkey t1_j96y014 wrote
Yup. I just can’t bring myself to try anything else…except maybe the Raal sr1a, just because the staging is on another level, and it’s an overall upgrade. Everything else seems like a bit of a downgrade, if the presentation is what you’re accustomed to
BionicSammich t1_j9cuhhs wrote
How do they compare to the Aryas for music? I've had a couple of pairs of Aryas (V2s and V3s).
GregTheTwurkey t1_j9cwzhz wrote
Honestly, the hd800s is my preferred choice, but only after eq. Even stock, it’s very neutral sounding, a little peaky at 6k but it’s nowhere near as bad as people make it out to be. With proper eq (that sounds good to you), I personally think they’re the better listen. Not as engaging as the Arya, but amazing for relaxing and listening, since everything is nicely diffused and never close/intimate to your ears.
The Arya aren’t as wide (they’re pretty close, but you’ll likely notice it if you compare them) their presentation is ever so slightly more engaging. Bass is better, but it’s also really nice on the hd800s (just don’t expect the same level of quantity without eq, although I’m satisfied with the warmth as is). The Arya is a bit taller/bigger sounding, but it’s difficult to pick up on after A/Bing them. They’re very similar sounding headphones, but the hd800s are technically better and more resolving overall. They’re also slightly bigger sounding of the two, if soundstage king is the mantra you want to have in your rig. You can’t go wrong with either though
BionicSammich t1_j9d2qy8 wrote
For my daily, I love bass impact/slam. I really want it to kick me in the chest. I haven't quite found that set of headphones yet, although the 109 Pros have a nice kick to them without having too much of a bass shelf. I'm not expecting that sort of bass from the HD800s, but I'd iike to give them a go some day as a complimentary headphone to the rest of my gear.
GregTheTwurkey t1_j9d3o3w wrote
Yeah I love mine, they do literally everything I want them to, except that kick in the chest bass, which for me gets old pretty quickly anyway. Although, my recommendation is just get the hd800s and invest in a butt kicker so you can have both the kick in the ass low end and the headphone. It would be a much better portrayal of bass than the Arya. I think the hd800s’s diffused bass is more realistic. With the butt kicker, it’d be as realistic as it could get with headphones
JamesBong517 t1_j984el4 wrote
How are they for music? I hear for videogames, it’s the absolute best. Does the massive soundstage make movies/music sound unnatural in anyway? I’ve heard some people say that. Which is why I think I’m going to get the Focal Clear Mg Pro as it seems to do everything I want. Maybe eventually I’ll get the HD 800s— if once I get the Clear Mg Pro and feel like I need an upgrade
becuzwhateverforever t1_j98lwz5 wrote
They’re solid for music depending on what you’re into. They excell in genres with many instruments like classical and jazz. I primarily listen to indie and hardcore though. The HD800S gets the job done but they aren’t as impactful as I’d like and can be a little too bright at times.
I haven’t tried watching a movie with the 800S but I’ve noticed the unnatural wideness with certain hip hop and r&b tracks.
nebkelly t1_j971cfj wrote
I game a lot and am stuck on ATH-AD900. Audio Technica unlocked some kind of god mod treble, combined with an ultra wide soundstage on that model.
X2HR, AD2000x, and HD600 were all let downs recently but I want to try the 800s.
Scattering_Crows t1_j96qnnx wrote
Flair has the list, but LCD-X are the first ones where I feel that there is nowhere left to go. Paired with the HifiMan EF400 is just perfect for my ears.
mrgreatheart t1_j973h7v wrote
How would you compare the LCD-X to the Sundara? I have the Ananda which seems to be considered in the same league as the X but I can’t seem to shake my desire for Audeze cans.
Scattering_Crows t1_j975h8k wrote
I think that they are a definite step up. The Sundaras are very neutral and I find that they can sound thin with certain songs. I don’t find them at all fatiguing though and can wear them all day. Most of my friends and family who have tried all my headphones would put these second to the LCD-X. The Audeze have far better imaging and layering in my opinion. Despite their weight, I find them very comfortable too and can wear them all evening. I do EQ them though. I have Sonarworks Sound ID Reference for headphones and the flat setting sounds amazing. I also have the Oratory1990 settings too. I alternate between genres and use either setting accordingly. I can’t imagine needing to upgrade these any time soon.
mrgreatheart t1_j97lbz1 wrote
Thank you.
hahas0309 t1_j96xw2t wrote
I have just the Clear right now, I sold all the pairs I had and kept them, they are amazing.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j96zhv5 wrote
Can't argue that, actually close to doing the same thing.
JamesBong517 t1_j984nfc wrote
This is confirmation that getting the Clear Mg Pro is the logical choice. My nicest pair right now is HD 600 & I figured I’ll just save money and hearing my gf complain about buying too many headphones, I’ll just jump right up in the big leagues.
I know you have the OG Clear, but any negatives one can think of? Also, what amp/DAC are you running
blucsigma05 OP t1_j989mdg wrote
I'd say just the typical open back issues, depending on environment volume may need to go louder, but I just drive them either with my DAP (fiio m11 plus), or bluetooth with my ifi go blu bluetooth dac. I haven't had any comfort issues I love how the Clears fit and everything just sounds great to me.
JamesBong517 t1_j989vyl wrote
Have you ever heard the Clear Mg Pro? It kinda seems like the OG Clear are more towards consumers and have a U shaped tuning versus the mg pro being more flat and neutral. I love how the Hd 600 doesn’t really color the music or anything, at least I thought. Could be wrong. I just don’t wanna regret a purchase of $1000 or so.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j98anwi wrote
I haven't, I was thinking MG because I read it was more bass-heavy, but the Clear seem to be more of the favorite overall from my research, and it's half the price now so I went with the Clear OG. No complaints. I bought them final sale so I definitely understand but honestly it's the best headphone purchase I've made.
JamesBong517 t1_j98bjf3 wrote
It almost has me tempted to buy both. Even if I buy the OG first and absolutely love them, I will always be wondering what the other sounds like. FOMO is a major thing. I just can reason having both of those headphones & keeping both, because at that point, I might as well just get the Utopia lol. Which, yes that has crossed my mind, but then I’m wondering is there any more improvement after a certain point, and I’ve talked myself out of the Utopia. I just don’t have the funds to justify spending $3k+ on headphones. I also haven’t even experienced the $1k range & I know there’s so many more than perfect ones in there. I know new versions isn’t always better, as I found the HD 600 to be the best version for me.
Also, I see our music tastes are very different, and I see you said you like bass heavy music. I typically am listening to a lot of strings music (yes I know plenty of strings do have deep bass) and live performances and what not. So clarity and instrument separation in big mixes is important to me. Upon reading about every article I could find, once I have the money, I’m going to buy the Clear Mg Pro and I will come back with all the good, bad, and ugly.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j98dciw wrote
Let me know, seems like those with my preference prefer mg more so I'm a little curious, but the Clears just sound so good that if I did upgrade it would have to be utopia, but like you, I just can't imagine they sound 3-4x better than either clear to justify the price. Diminishing returns is very real pass 1k.
JamesBong517 t1_j98eeib wrote
It’ll probably be in a month and half; I start a new job this week and there’s a big gap between my last paycheck and my first full one, so it’ll be probably 3 paychecks before I get them. I’ll DM you so I can remember to let you know.
I want to eventually get the DCA Aeon 2 Noire to have a set of closed back headphones, in case I ever have kids or anything of that nature. Besides that, at a certain point I was told you basically are just picking what you want it to be the best at (HD 800s for soundstage) but something else will be a trade off. And someone else told me it’s very a massive drop in diminishing returns after the $1500 price. The Utopia’s will sound better than the Clear, without a doubt. It definitely won’t sound 3-4x better though.
Eventually I might make that jump, as time passes & I move up within my career path. But that will have to be in a very long time. Not just to have that kind of money, but I’m also going to upgrade my DAC next & same kind of thing. I want the RME-ADI 2, but it’s probably pointless to get something at that level. Something like $700 would be just fine with no real upgrade in sound, maybe just had more connection tires or something. That’s the kick in the dick of this hobby; FOMO and massive diminishing returns
blucsigma05 OP t1_j98g138 wrote
Trust I understand I tried a lot of phones. Finally, just got burnt out and realized I'm always gonna have FOMO. I listen to the noire I did like them, they just didn't sound better than my wife's radiance so I didn't keep them but very good phone at the price. I like the Sony MDR-Z1R, just grappling with the cost a little, but I like the sound and they are extremely comfortable.
JamesBong517 t1_j98gsxr wrote
Is the Radiance better than the MDR-Z1R, in your opinion? I do eventually want to get a pair of closed back headphones. Part of me thinks it would make more sense to not have all my headphones the same brand, and the other thinks “if you found what you love, why change it”
But ya, i listen to a lot of like vocal songs and classic rock, opera, pop. I really enjoy the HD 600 and how they are but I know there can be so much more clarity. With knowing that, are the OG Clear a great option? They aren’t v or u shaped tuning are they?
blucsigma05 OP t1_j98ma5c wrote
My testing Playlist has a ton of genres. I think the radiance are very good. For me I have a weird issue with the cups on the radiance my left ear feels a lot of pressure, no one else I let try them didn't have that issue, I've had it with other closed back it just depends. The mdr-z1r is just a different sound than the focals which i enjoy they are very v shape, but vocals sound great. The radiance are great but to me it just was a redundant sound as focal does have a "house sound" so they feel like Clears with more bass. Mdr-z1r is very warm, didn't really understand that term until I tried them. The noire the mids were just more recessed than the radiance you can easy eq that I just don't do much eqing.
For me the "clear" is emphasized on the Clears more than any headphones I have(besides some iems ive tried). The Clears allowed me to hear so much new detail from songs I've heard a million times. Some don't like the Soundstage of the Clear for open back it's very intimate, but not veiled it's very clear and forward. I don't want to oversell them but I just don't think you can go wrong picking them up. I've never heard the HD 600 but I know they are loved.
JamesBong517 t1_j98neq8 wrote
Looks like you and everyone sold me on the og clear. So glad I made the post. You also confirmed what I figured— at that price point I’m getting different brands. I want different sounds from my closed back & sometimes (especially with video games and movies) the V shaped is really nice. And when I’m in the mood to put on gangster rap I want that bass. So when I go to buy closed back, I’m first looking at the mdr-z1r. I know it’s expensive, but oh well. I want the clear first, and the much smaller price I can justify it for me getting a new job and it being my first salaried job. Gotta treat myself. The Sony— well we get a yearly bonus and I’ll be able to get them then & have left over money so I won’t feel bad. Figure if we reach our goals I can treat myself as well once a year. Not always headphones, but you get my drift.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j98oapn wrote
Yup! Worth it, going to use them a lot, so you can justify the cost! Enjoy the journey man! Definitely let me know what you think of those Clears and MDR-Z1R. I'd say try those Noire too for close back. I love rap on my Clears, bass is there when needed and not overdone. It's rap so if the song is supposed to have bass it's there just not exaggerated.
JamesBong517 t1_j98p2zm wrote
Sounds the HD 600 to me. So many people say there is no bass, but to me, in songs that had it, it was there. Just not bloated or anything? Are you saying to check out the Noire just because it punches above its price point, is it a real contender to the z1r?
blucsigma05 OP t1_j98qrmf wrote
I'd say just to have a good reference, the Noire is half the price of mdr-z1r...Mdr-z1r is better to me, is it worth 2x as much compared to the Noire...you have to decide. I think you would prefer the midrange on the Mdr-z1r.
JamesBong517 t1_j98t21v wrote
I definitely do not like my midrange muffled or veiled or recessed or whatever the word is. Although closed back is much further down the road & im honestly hoping the Clear will take care of my upgrade-itis for the foreseeable years. I’ll probably get the ADI-2 after the Clear, just because I feel like if I have headphones that are $1500, a $110 DAC just isn’t doing it justice. Plus the ADI-2 has an input for XLR for headphones, and it has XLR output for studio monitors, which I plan on getting. It also has built in EQ, which saves me from buying an external EQ.
hahas0309 t1_j982oaa wrote
:D
i've had the HD800s, LCD-X. Ananda, even the Elegia, Beyerdynamic T5 3rd gen, and DT 770/880 which was my first pairs.
I went to Ananda after half a year with the DT 770 and when I got the Clears after few months the Ananda was sitting in their package for a long long time, and I really tried to like them after the clear but...meh :p
blucsigma05 OP t1_j98a68z wrote
Yeah, I got the lcd-x and was disappointed I wasn't expecting the Clears to sound so good and I think bass everything is just right and I listen to bass heavy stuff, but it's at a level I can listen to for long sessions. Some of those bass-heavy phones just give me a headache after a while.
jumboshrimp93 t1_j96ifxi wrote
I have the Clear and Emu Ebony for headphones, and U12t and AirPod Pros for IEMs.
The Clear and U12t are very close but if I had to choose one it’d be the U12t. They just sound so smooth, so clean, detail on them is amazing. What they do for being IEMs still kinda blows my mind sometimes. Add to the fact that being IEMs makes them more portable, that makes them my desert island headphone.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j96ixn0 wrote
Nice lineup! I have the Clears and testing out the Sony ier-Z1R, I do like the combo, but I think currently I'd keep the Clears over the iems. Very curious about the u12t heard nothing but great things!
ReekyRumpFedRatsbane t1_j96o8te wrote
Aurorus Borealis.
While I do absolutely love the sound, I gotta admit I'd mostly keep it for its uniqueness and to make steamed hams memes:
"Aurorus Borealis? At this time of day, at this time of year, in this part of the country, localized entirely within your headphones?!"
"Yes!"
"May I hear it?"
"No."
JTCPingasRedux t1_j988u0e wrote
Seymour! My ears are on fire!
StarWarder t1_j97xdqv wrote
When I heard them for the first time I was blown away. Truly an underestimated headphone. They have a dense exciting sound that is extremely engaging.
Akella333 t1_j96rl7a wrote
I don't own much, and its all from the same brand (shameless sony fanboy), but I think I would be able to live with my M9s forever and not want anything else.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j96szlp wrote
Was curious about those and how they compare to the ier-z1r, if the z1r worth the price.
Akella333 t1_j96tcjb wrote
the M9 sound way more neutral than the z1r, but the z1r have more impressive concert hall type bass. Both are really good sets, but the z1r comfort is a huge turn off for me. The biggest selling point for me for the M9 was its tiny size and build quality.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j971icp wrote
Yeah after switching tips the z1r are very comfortable, and I do love that bass. Ultimately that is what I thought about was build quality, I am familar with sony no so much some of the other iem brands.
Akella333 t1_j97798k wrote
64audio is on my opinion a good step up if you're looking to upgrade. The u12t specifically was about the same size as the M9 but it was really forward sounding with amazing detail and absolutely slamming bass.
mrgreatheart t1_j974xcd wrote
Tricky question this. I’ve got some fantastic headphones (in my flair) of which probably the most used are my HD-650 lately because of comfort, but if I had to choose just one it might be the Blessing 2 Dusk. Those things are honestly insane. I never thought IEMs could possibly come close to over ear and I only bought these for listening in bed without disturbing my wife, but wow. They blow me away every time. Of course there are things my over ears can do better (like soundstage), but the portability and bed friendliness of the IEMs gives them a level of utility that I couldn’t do without for my sole listening device. Plus they sound good enough that I would never really miss the others.
tehec t1_j97ncff wrote
X2HR. Not the most popular around here, but I don’t care. They’re fun, they sound good, and they are ridiculously comfortable on my (giant) head.
1trickana t1_j983mmn wrote
The X2s were insanely popular years ago, before the 6XX
blucsigma05 OP t1_j97qxyo wrote
Great headphone especially at the price point. Yes they are so comfortable!
IMKGI t1_j97dhjp wrote
HD 800S, for me that's the pinnacle of headphones, everything is just perfect, bright sound signature, wide soundstage, perfect detail retrival, and non-existent clamp force
AbbottsOnion t1_j97u1qo wrote
Ath-m50s with DekoniSheepskin pads EQ'd using Oratory1990 settings
SHP9500 EQ'd using Oratory1990 settings, I pair this with a qudlex 5k for console gaming and sometimes watching movies.
7hz Salnotes Zero, mostly keep this pair around for when i'm travelling and I don't want to take anything bulky or expensive. It's the reliable but expendable pair.
Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
Honestly I would keep the Galaxy Buds 2 pro if I only had to keep one. I really like the tuning and the technicalities are pretty good too for a TWS IEM, it's just so effortless to enjoy music with these in most situations.
BehindThyCamel t1_j96tvh2 wrote
As of yesterday, Meze 99 Classics. I can finally hear stuff properly and I can wear them for hours. They replaced the Koss PortaPro as my default headphones.
Other than that, Sennheiser HD 4.40BT which have served me well for the last four years and Sennheiser HD 599 which have no redeeming qualities to them whatsoever.
For completeness I should mention Sony WI-C200. Great for conference calls, not suitable for music IMO.
stargazer63 t1_j989fpw wrote
Hd 660S. Had 600, too forward midrange. Had 650, uninspiring treble. DT 770, poorer imaging than 660s, otherwise nothing wrong. M50x, no soul. Oppo PM3, perfect bass and midrange, terrible treble. 660s does not show any major flaw, and shines in its exceptional imaging. Well there goes my Sunday answer.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j98b8n8 wrote
Those 660s2 peaking your interest at all?
stargazer63 t1_j98c9id wrote
Initially did. Looking at the FR, it feels like the s2 will be great for some genres, but not a jack of all trades like the S. It will take months or years to know how people truly feel about them, as initially everyone will be on the hype train (like most were for the 660s). So let’s see. If S3 comes out, I may get the s2 at $299. :)
hyperburststrike t1_j98jg6m wrote
My favorite will be ZMF Auteur, but if I could only keep one it will definitely be HD600. Lightweight, and good-sounding even if I plug it straight to my desktop.
MoochieButtons t1_j96n83l wrote
The main big ones are the DT 1990 pro, the audioquest nighthawk, DCA open x, harmonicdyne athena, akg k701, the meze 99 noir, modded fostex t50rp mk.3. And bunch of smaller ones like the sony mdr7506, or some old sennheisers.
but if I had to pick only one, I would 100% go for the DCA open X almost without question
unuselessness t1_j96wcie wrote
Edited: formatting
Fostex TH909,
Fostex TH900,
Fostex Th900 African ebony Lawton cups,
Fostex x00 mahogany,
Ultrasone Edition eleven,
Focal Elex,
Emu Teak,
Denon ah-d9200,
Denon ah-d7200,
Denon ah-d2000,
Vokyl Erupt,
Koss kh30i,
Sash Tres,
Snorry SI mk1,
RikuBuds Grand Rider,
RikuBuds Prototype,
Kennerton Jimo,
Sony MH755,
Mock Borealis DIY (x2),
DIY bass canons,
If I had to keep only one it would be the Koss kh30i. They are cheap and easy to replace.
The Denon 9200 is my favorite closed back. Ultrasone Edition 11 is my favorite open back.
olqerergorp_etereum t1_j974ty9 wrote
>If I had to keep only one it would be the Koss kh30i. They are cheap and easy to replace.
damn getting a pair ngl
PolarBearSequence t1_j97jz5q wrote
Huh, that’s a lot of biodynamics. Which one of the wooden Fostex/Denon/Emu is you favorite?
unuselessness t1_j97nb6t wrote
Denon 9200 is very very good all a rounder to my ear, but the th900 can be EQed to a satisfying bass slam.
1trickana t1_j983z5r wrote
Same here, very tempted by a pearl white TH900 though
206Red t1_j97fnbe wrote
HD 660s has stopped my upgraditis for now
Just a relexaded yet detailed sound, after years listening to brighter headphones
antagron1 t1_j97hr9k wrote
Let’s not tell him about the 660s2… 🤫
blucsigma05 OP t1_j97jnyw wrote
🤣🤣🤣🫢
206Red t1_j9813bl wrote
Oh boy 😨
StarWarder t1_j97xw8u wrote
HiFiman Susvara
iankost t1_j98bjk3 wrote
Focal Radiance - went in to demo the Bathys, came out with the Radiance and a Fiio btr7 as I realised that most of the time I'd be tethered to my laptop and the times I wasn't, this still sounded better than the Bathys to overcome the slight annoyance of cables.
For IEMS it's my trusty Jerry Harvey JH7's, so clear and the sound is like it's coming from inside your head (but that's a good thing).
likeabrother t1_j96v4db wrote
My favorite Bluetooth headphones are the Beoplay H95s. They sound the best out of any wireless headphones I've heard, beating the likes of the Air Pod Max and Sony XM4s. A con is the lower noise ceiling; still, you'll never nees to have these at 100% when listening to music. I usually am around 70% volume. The ANC/ambient noise is variable. Though, the ANC is not as strong as other BT headphones. The price tag is very high so I’d only get these on a sale.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j97946t wrote
I tested them when I was looking ended up getting the Bathys. Actually how I started my journey, upgrading my Bluetooth options ended up getting wired as well. Those H95 definitely come with the bass too!
StarWarder t1_j97ysuo wrote
I also got AirPods Max and then decided to pursue the next level of wired.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j986xh6 wrote
Best/worst decision of my life 🤣🤣
covertash t1_j96wu8y wrote
Hopefully in this hypothetical scenario, it's only temporary, and eventually you can pick up other pairs in the future again. :)
If so, I'd opt to keep the Hifiman HE500, just because they have long been discontinued and getting harder and harder to find on the used market. In a lot of ways, it's more so sentimental reasoning and looking at them through rose-colored glasses. I know I do gush over them a little too much, and in 2023, they're no longer the technical marvel that they once were over a decade ago, but they still embody my definition of what a pair of lush "balanced" headphones sounds like, while tugging at the heart strings a little more than others. I imagine these are similar reasons why people love ZMF headphones, which makes me particularly curious to try them out at some point - especially the Caldera.
With that said, there are a number of other headphones that are vying for a close second right behind the HE500. Depending on the time of day and mood, honorable mentions go to the Focal Utopia, Focal Clear OG, Hifiman HE1000 v2, HE6se v2, Susvara, and of course cannot forget the legendary Sennheiser HD600/580.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j9789kx wrote
How long have you had the HE500, the fact that they are still going strong is awesome! I'm hoping these headphones I have the life lives up to the price tag not just the sound!
covertash t1_j97bqul wrote
I picked up the HE500 on eBay in 2018, and the seller claimed to have them for 6-7 years before me, so they're well over a decade old at this point. Counting my blessings every day that they don't give up the ghost any time soon.
Yeah, I imagine with careful handling your headphones should last a good long while. :)
KawaiifuWorks t1_j99vhbv wrote
How do you feel the utopias and clears compare to each other?
covertash t1_j9bzta5 wrote
Lol, this one always tends to ruffle some feathers for what I am about to say.
I've owned the Utopia (pre-2022 refresh) for over 18 months, and the Clear OG for 13 months, and in side by side listening, MY opinion remains that the Clear OG is the warmer tilting baby brother of the Utopia. The Utopia has better clarity in the midrange, but there are times when it can come across as slightly more piercing than the Clear. To me, the Clear is the more consistently relaxed listen, but how much of these differences can be narrowed by EQ is up for debate. In a lot of ways, there are a lot of parallels between the Focal "twins" and the differences between the HD600 vs HD650/6XX.
I should also add that the Utopia is easier to drive than the Clear, by about ~3-4 dB. This is significant because if you have an overpowered amp, as most tend to own nowadays, it means that the Utopia can be a bigger pain in the ass to manage volume with less play on the volume knob (especially if your amp happens to have issues with channel imbalances on the lower end of the spectrum), versus the Clear. However, the upside is if you are Team DongleDAC, the Utopia has more headroom available and actually sounds pretty good - as heretical as that may sound.
For me, aside from the above, the biggest differentiator is the premium materials that are used on the Utopia. Yes, the Clear feels great in the hand, but the Utopia exudes luxury, and maybe this is enough to push some people over the edge. However, I often wonder how much these physical qualities bias the perception of audible differences, and make them out to be significantly larger than they may actually be.
I know some people swear that the Utopia has better technicalities, like punching harder than the Clear, thanks to those beryllium drivers, but I'd be hard pressed to tell that minute of a difference. So then, is the Utopia more detailed? Maybe? But if I go back to the Clear I can hear those same details just fine; maybe a tad bit subdued, but it really is the very definition of splitting hairs.
In a world where I could only own one and cost didn't matter, then yeah no question, I would pick the Utopia every time. However, if cost is a concern, how much of a difference does the Utopia hold over the Clear? I'm not so sure it is worth more than five times the cost - unless you don't mind buying used, which means it's "only" 2-3X more money. ;)
Hope that helps.
KawaiifuWorks t1_j9cbkej wrote
That helps a lot, thanks! Definitely a different take than most but interesting to read and makes me rather curious how I might perceive them then
Lemondsingle t1_j96zpc9 wrote
Grado SR80e, Bluetooth with Fiio BTR3K when I want to move around. As an old guy with tinnitus and loss of some higher frequencies, I don't think I need anything more than the excellent budget Grado. Favorite buds are Soundcore Liberty Air 2 TWS, which sound better to me than other supposedly better TWS that I own. They're great for what they are and down to $25 (Amazon) now a genuine bargain.
omarccx t1_j973752 wrote
The Aeon Noire are up there. They sound fantastic without an EQ, and with an EQ I can bring the mids back slightly which is their only flaw for me. Single best headphone purchase I've made. No need to worry about exterior sounds at all, and can listen at a lower volume because of it.
However for gaming I've been using the DT770 since I can't be bothered to move the Noires to the living room everytime. They live at my desk. I prefer the T1s for gaming, but being open I have to be picky about when to use them.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j977k7f wrote
I did enjoy them. Just hated the mids I know I could EQ it out but prefer not to EQ.
omarccx t1_j97glvr wrote
It's honestly not a whole lot that needs pushing. So it's quite minor. Unless I go on/off I'll forget the difference in a few minutes.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j97j37x wrote
Agreed. My wife has the Focal radiance, I prefer the noire, but overall the radiance do sound better so ultimately I couldn't really justify keeping them both, but I have thought about getting them again as I'm still deciding how I feel about iems, and the Sony mdr-z1r I enjoy, but the price tag still tough to swallow lol.
MushyPlushie t1_j97b8wx wrote
The AKG Y50's. A bit of an odd pick, sure, but for everyday use, I absolutely love them. I love the sound, I love the noise isolation, I love the look and I love the fit. If I could only have on set of headphones, that's my pick.
Don't get me wrong, they're certainly not the best sounding headphones I've heard or even own. If I want great sound, I'll be sitting on my couch listening through my X2HR's or HD58x'd. But because they've open backs, you can't really bring those on a bus, or even take a walk with them on a windy day. The best closed backs I've got are the DT770 Pro's (80 ohm), but the sound isolation just doesn't cut it. Same story for all of my other closed back, actually.
Really, my headphone journey started with me trying to find a suitable upgrade for my Y50's, but so far I've been unsuccessful. I'm starting to think the Y50's really are my perfect convenience set of headphones. It's a shame that they've been discontinued.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j97jgvj wrote
I love the X2HR too! Thought about picking them up since they are so cheap, but I really wanted a close back to compliment my Clears. Isolation isn't as big of a thing for me, more leakage, but agree none I've tested seem to be great at isolation.
heyyoudvd t1_j97jl6o wrote
Those are my ratings of my 17 headphones/IEMs, arranged by chronological purchase order.
- Most impressive sound: Focal Elegia
- Most enjoyable sound: Grado Hemp
- Overall favourite headphone: Senn 6XX
- If I had to keep only one: AirPods Pro 2 (due to all the convenience factors)
hatlad43 t1_j97utaz wrote
My collection is in the flair + Samson SR850 and 7Hz Salnotes Zero. If I could keep one headphones & one iem, it'd be.. HE400se and XM4, I guess. I like the Zero, but where I work & commute, the seal on the Zero just doesn't cut it.
VonDinky t1_j97wtae wrote
I currently have KPH30i, KSC75 and Porta Pro. I'd keep the Porta Pro.
LowChecks t1_j98180v wrote
Fostex th900
blucsigma05 OP t1_j989tb5 wrote
Want to try these hear that bass is great.
School-Tricky t1_j982xlv wrote
I could never have just one, but if I had to it’s the Aeon II closed for work and on the go. My second is HD800S but that’s usually just for my desk setup
WarHead75 t1_j985l3n wrote
Sony IER-Z1R, qdc Gemini, Shure SE846, RHA T20, AirPods Pro 2, Noble Fokus Pro, Bowers &Wilkins PI7
Focal Clear, STAX SR-L300 Limited Edition
I would keep the Sony IER-Z1R, most fun and grand sound while still retaining natural timbre and high technicalities so I can enjoy acoustic and electronic music. Also I use them the most, haven’t touched the others in months
blucsigma05 OP t1_j9899ej wrote
Preference is so crazy, i have the Clears and sony, and if the situation allows I'm reaching for the Clears. I think I just prefer headphones over iems, but the sonys are great which is why I still have them.
Slideshoe t1_j98bf6s wrote
I'm in the honeymoon phase with the Zmf Auture Classics right now. Amazing tonality and top tier imaging.
No-Context5479 t1_j96jvl4 wrote
Kennerton Gjallarhorn GH50 JM Edition
blucsigma05 OP t1_j96kabk wrote
Definitely seen those pop up tough to get a hold of. Heard good things about the HP2 also.
1trickana t1_j983jmh wrote
They're in stock at Kennerton, the hard to get edition is the one you send to JM for his mark II version
ChutneyRiggins t1_j977kgi wrote
OK here’s one. I got some Surface Headphones free from Microsoft and used them for years. I started to think about an upgrade to audiophile phones and auditioned some Focals, Grados, and the HD6xx. I was very surprised to find how good the Surface ones sounded in comparison. Maybe my ears were just so used to the sound after thousands of hours of listening but I’ll say that those Bluetooth, office focused closed-backs don’t sound too bad.
bbuky01 t1_j97ff21 wrote
For me if only one headphone it would be the Diana TC with the bass ported pads.
Corgerus t1_j97g5jt wrote
Philips SHP9600 with Misodiko cooling gel pads. I can wear them all day, and the sound is warm and bassy. it does everything I want it to do.
PolarBearSequence t1_j97hxvt wrote
I’ve got an HD 800S, NDH 30, HD 650 and some miscellaneous other stuff. TBH, the HD 800 is not the one I’d keep if I was forced to part with all but one (assuming that I get to sell them). When reduced to a single headphone, I’d still keep the HD 650, because I greatly adore it’s warm and pleasant sound.
If I can’t get the money by selling and I’m allowed to rebuy headphone later, I’d keep the 800 of course, since it has by far the highest value.
PLOHNO t1_j9a4ui1 wrote
My pick is the HD660S because it's a good all-rounder that I can listen to many genres without too much complaint. I have a hard time with the HD800S and rock due to the lack of visceral bottom end which no amount of EQ solves.
1SWM1 t1_j97msfz wrote
Currently I have the Hifiman HE1000V2 and the Astell & Kern x Empire Ears Odyssey. The odyssey is what I’d keep.
ExiledSanity t1_j97ot8a wrote
My favorite are the DT1990.
But if I had to keep only one I don't know what they would be. Something with isolation if I only had one. Probably an IEM, but I find them uncomfortable after relatively short periods of time.
sustained_vibrations t1_j97qors wrote
HD 650
shadowpapi9890 t1_j99fxfa wrote
Thug
sustained_vibrations t1_j99i2dt wrote
Na msayin
Fred011235 t1_j97vywy wrote
hd800(sdr modded). i just like how they sound
blucsigma05 OP t1_j9874er wrote
How are they modded?
ddre54 t1_j98uqg1 wrote
LCD-X. I remember going to CanJam and from all the headphones and setups available disregarding price tag, every time I listen to the LCD-X I just enjoyed the music so much more.
on9desu t1_j99458x wrote
NDH30. I haven’t touch my HD600 since I got them. I’m surprised it’s barely mentioned at all in the audiophile scene. They sound fantastic.
kikirevi t1_j998fnn wrote
Blessing 2 Dusks. Fucking love the sound of these. Arya would be close second.
shadowpapi9890 t1_j99fgiu wrote
Grado rs2e.
vbarada t1_j99li99 wrote
Sony MDR-Z1R. Never been a big fan of open back headphones.
legabs t1_j99o8te wrote
What I have >>>>
Headphones : M40x, M60x, PM3, Nightowl Carbon, Aeon, DT990, 1More Triple, Porta Pro, KPH30iClear, SR80e, HE400imodded...maybe I forgot 1 or 2
Iems : too many !
-----------------
What I would keep >>>>
Headphones : Oppo PM3
IEM : Senfer DT6...or Zero Audio Zirco Pezzo I hesitate...
OverL1ke t1_j9alw5r wrote
Hd800s
anuress t1_j9arp3j wrote
My trusty LCD-2. I loved mine even without EQ.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j9arxg1 wrote
Are those open? Have you ever tried the LCD-X?
anuress t1_j9wi7kv wrote
you mean open back? yes. Unfortunately I haven't heard the LCD-X
anoon999 t1_j9arw7v wrote
My favorite is my k812 but if I could only have one I'd choose my AQ nighthawk bc nothing sounds harsh on them and they have a "comfortable" sound
Lckzboy t1_j9b3ren wrote
I started from the HD 650 and then LCD 2-classic and now I have the focal clear OG, and I really do miss the dynamic sound after using my planar for awhile and I really have to say that the focal clear is my favourite headphone currently because it suits the music I listen to. It is just a much improved version of the HD 650 and the imaging is so good especially when gaming I can almost pinpoint exactly where the sound is coming from
blucsigma05 OP t1_j9c5yph wrote
That's what I love about the Clear, all the details I'm getting that I never heard before!
Rajhoot t1_j9b3zz0 wrote
I have a buncha flagships but right now it’d be the DCA Expanse and UM Multiverse Mentor
Overall_Falcon_8526 t1_j9c3a3n wrote
I have:
Sony MDR-Z1R
Sony MDR-Z7M2
Sony MDR-7506
Sony MDR-1000X
Dan Clark Aeon Closed X
and I returned Hifiman HE400SE.
I would not want to part with the Z1R. Everything else could go I suppose, but I like having the Aeon Closed X as a high end backup for it, and it is my work office set of cans.
I have been considering dabbling in open backs again (I disliked the openness of the HE400SE) and am looking at Focal Clear and LCD-2 Classic. But this is just an idle thought really, as I am very satisfied with what I've got.
blucsigma05 OP t1_j9grzyd wrote
I have the Clear, I love them! The Z1R it's something about their sound it's kind of addictive. Deciding between the ier-z1r or the mdr Z1R closed back for my sound isolated needs.
Overall_Falcon_8526 t1_j9hdrfa wrote
How would you compare the Bathys to the Z1R?
blucsigma05 OP t1_j9kwund wrote
I had to go listen to them again. Also, forgive me as I am terrible with terms and comparing lol. I got the Bathys first to upgrade my Bluetooth experience, but kept researching and went down the wired rabbit hole so once I went wired I don't use them much.
Listening to both, definitely prefer the Z1R to the Bathys. You can listen to the Bathys wired through a usb-c, I initially purchased with that as a plus, but now that I have other wired ones I would never listen to them that way, actually prefer how it sounds BT vs wired. The bathys aren't as comfortable with smaller ear cups(i have bigger ears my ears don't touch the cups but it does touch the actual speaker which is uncomfortable just a little irritating sometimes), and more clamp force, also the Soundstage is much smaller so compared to Z1R some songs sound a little busy if that makes sense just a lot of sounds overlapping. One of the best things I like about the Z1R is how warm and laid back it sounds, Bathys is bright and vocals can feel shouty on some songs just because of how forward the midrange is. Z1R also the sound just sounds fuller to me compared to the focals but that could be the "warmer" part. Bathys have good bass which i like but its a little more punchy vs the Z1R is more rumble which I prefer.
I still prefer my Clear over everything but Z1R are the best-closed back I have heard. Bathys I tried pretty much all the BT options and for me, I think it was the best, you could argue the ML 5909, it was better technically but it wasn't as enjoyable musically for me, felt more analytical to me than for casual listening.
TheMisterTango t1_j9fdr9t wrote
Haven’t tried many headphones, but of the ones I have tried and own sundara is far and away my favorite. Haven’t touched my starfields in months, only use the 58X for discord calls, and my M50x isn’t even worthy of discussion.
ro086 t1_j96jb9r wrote
AKG K52. Sentimental Reasons.
FastGecko5 t1_j96n5pt wrote
If I could only keep one headphone from my collection it would probably be the Audiosense DT200.
[deleted] t1_j96nl2o wrote
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DunkinRadio t1_j96qj7d wrote
See my flair and I'd keep the Hemps.
philzebub666 t1_j96wb4c wrote
I would be happy only using the DT1990s. I know their sound is not everyone's cup of tea but for me they are perfect.
[deleted] t1_j96y2xq wrote
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RB181 t1_j96yxsj wrote
I own about two dozen pairs of headphones mostly in the $150-$300 price range, and if I could keep only one pair, that would be... ATH-M50x, no joke. As much as I love the sound of higher-end and open-back headphones, I haven't found any other wired headphone that is as good when it comes to convenience - closed-back with great sound isolation, easy to drive, good build quality, foldable, uses detachable cables, and comfortable enough for long listening sessions.
SonOfYavanna t1_j96z3rx wrote
Hifiman Ananda / Ananda stealth, it does everything I want a headphone to do, i hope it won't die out of the blue, mine are going strong at 1 year and six months paired with toppings l30II and e30II.
I have no desire to upgrade further, the only thing i might do is buying those fenestrated dekoni pads, because of Zeos, when the stock pads start to melt, so far it only has a little peeling on the exterior bottom of the pads almost unnoticeable.
GrimTurtle666 t1_j96z6ub wrote
I have the DT770s, Senn 58X, Airpod pro 2, Ikko oh10, and Salnotes Zero. In the past I’ve had Senn 598, M50X, and Sundara’s. I think the “best” sounding I’ve had to my ears are the 58X(I have a very long post about why I disliked the sundara), however, if I had to sell them all except for one, I’d keep the Salnotes Zero. They’re just so good for the price. If they had just a touch more bass, just enough to add some more oomph to things like percussion and explosions in games, I would literally sell everything and keep them. The zeros fit so naturally in my ears, and the sound is just good enough to let me enjoy the music, and not so good that I focus on the headphone rather than the music. I think it’s a psychological thing where they’re so cheap that my brain just thinks “they’re not worth analyzing, just enjoy it” and boy do I enjoy it.
Edit: I can’t live without the AirPods transparency feature at my office job though lol
josher814 t1_j9740g9 wrote
Don’t have a favorite headphone, but my favorite IEM as of now is the T3 plus EQ’d to the 2019 IE Harman target with JVC spiral dot tips.
ItsCajunTime t1_j977z55 wrote
Right now, Tin P1 Max. Such a great all round IEM especially at the 100 bucks on linsoul
Koslovic t1_j97u1yq wrote
R70X as of now
Phoenix_Kerman t1_j97u2oy wrote
sony 7506 for basically everything in the house and some huawei earphones for out and about. so if i had to stick with one it'd be the sonys
[deleted] t1_j97uqlk wrote
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juannyca5h t1_j97y6dt wrote
Meze Elites, and I’ve tried a bunch!
JediMaS10 t1_j98d95p wrote
HifiMan He560 V2 - Sennheiser HD600 - Grados SR325X - Philips X2 - VModa M100 - Fostex t50rp mk3 - Koss Porta PRO - Sennheiser GSP 500
I will always keep HD600 because I love them
rhpot1991 t1_j99eutu wrote
I have favorites per style, choose them depending on how I'm feeling:
Open Back - ATH-ADX5000
Closed Back - ATH-AWKT
IEM - JVC HA-FW10000
AkagamiShanks007 t1_j99f5bh wrote
I have the apple earpods, Sennheiser CX 300, HD 569 and HD 560s. My HD 560s is really my fav headphone and I don’t think I will get any substantial difference even if I buy headphones that are twice its price. Its that good
shadowpapi9890 t1_j99fzuk wrote
It’s really good buuuut you can get better.
AkagamiShanks007 t1_j99h80n wrote
How much do I need to spend to get something significantly better than the 560s?
shadowpapi9890 t1_j99hvs7 wrote
660s are Significantly better to me. If you wanna go even further then something like aeon flow open and then lcd-x. 560s are really amazing for the price but 660s are way better.
AkagamiShanks007 t1_j99hzmg wrote
Are you sure? Cause most reviews say 560s is better than those
shadowpapi9890 t1_j99je7o wrote
To me they are. For the value they are great but 660s could be my fav headphone next to grado rs2e. 660s have a fuller sound with way better instrument separation and imaging, maybe the soundstage is smaller. Timbre is better. 560s are still amazing for the price tho and I enjoy them too but they sound thinner. Also 660s to my ears have faster and tighter bass. You have to try them out for yourself and see what I’m talking about.
AkagamiShanks007 t1_j99k9jt wrote
Even I used to feel that the sound was thin, So I actually boosted the 150-1000Hz range and I feel they are at their best now. The sound is near perfect and tight now
shadowpapi9890 t1_j99m4l1 wrote
Give the 660s A try sometime if you can
raisimo t1_j99i8hi wrote
Ananada because it’s what I’ve got and I’m happy enough with them.
audiochef68 t1_j99lh8n wrote
Stax L700 mk2 It's scary good..
Massive-Sky-2007 t1_j99ms9w wrote
Arya stealth. Sounds good on any genre. Especially on classical. End game for me.
[deleted] t1_j99ngzz wrote
[deleted]
Worried-Expert-823 t1_j99qnwr wrote
Ones I can keep for more than a few months
joshUKUSA t1_j9a12zm wrote
Final d8000 pro, best combination of build quality and compatibility with all genres I've heard so far.
Candy_Says23 t1_j9a1g5i wrote
I only have the HD 280 lol, I don't really got the money but this shit sounds like heaven to my ears.
FATGMST t1_j9a724e wrote
Sennheiser Momentum 4, sounds amazing, battery is insane, microphone is great but not the best.
I keep the Technics EAH-AZ60 on the side
TECHNICKER_Cz3 t1_j9a8035 wrote
HD560S is the best I've heard so far. My opinion is likely to change soon as I'm gonna be attending a headphone trade show with some pretty high-end stuff.
Old-Salad-1790 t1_j9a9l2s wrote
U12t
kyoroy t1_j9ah7sx wrote
the OG HD560S
headphones-r-us t1_j9gmfed wrote
I would keep my focal celestee because they sound amazing and are closed backs.
becuzwhateverforever t1_j96kbek wrote
HD800S. Everything sounds pretty good on them plus I do a ton of gaming.