I think it's this :'(

I'll always be overthinking; it's why I get paid :')

Something is wrong w/ this mindset. I see it akin to those who buy gym clothes before being "worthy" to spend the money, and same with vehicle modifications.

The time and money are better put elsewhere first: on the thing that actually gives you performance (yourself with working out, the vehicle for modifications, and the headphone in this case.)

You guys do you though. If everyone was like me the world's economy would've tanked decades ago lol

No.

I have a SB AE-5 > Modi >Valhalla 2 stack with HD800S, and HD660S.

There is a difference between the combinations (plugging into AE-5 directly vs Valhalla 2), most notably in the bass.

The biggest difference is the HD800S vs the HD660S. The HD800S straight up destroy the 660S. It's like sitting in a concert hall versus wearing headphones. Worth noting I literally grew up playing in concert halls, and have a trained ear (cello.)

I spent $400 on a Valhalla II and have to spend $130~ every year to replace the tubes.

Is it worth it? Fuck no.

Does it make my HD800S sound better? Yes.

Would I have bought one for my 660S? No.

Would I buy one for a HD560S? ABSOLUTELY NOT.