I seriously, seriously doubt that the HEK 2 is worth the upgrade hassle. You're way better off spending $300 on a custom cable from a company like Norne. 

An amazing headphone gets even better. If the new pads do seem to be well-regarded, I might give them a shot. Very happy with my v1 for now, bought used here for closer to $2000 than $3000 about 5 months ago.

I've been using the Audeze Deckard and its an incredible value for the money. Compared to other amps in that price point and it's no contest.

Ok, here's my initial impressions about this mod. Caveats: I have been into headphones/high-end gear for a couple years now but I am by no means an expert. I am not an engineer-type. Previously I removed the cloth on the grill of my 400i, but I am not comfortable opening up my headphones...

The Gumby has sadly few videos/video reviews compared to other gear, will check it out tonight! Thanks!

Just wanted to add another happy customer post! My Zoetic cable for my HE1000 continues to amaze me. I was quite skeptical going from the stock cable to my first custom cable, which I loved, and I was even more skeptical about going from that to the Zoetic. (Norne's refund policy was a big...

Have you been in touch with him? Not defending the fact you have to, but getting periodic updates from Trevor (his response times were quite good) helped me not get too frustrated with the process. Mine took about 41 days total from ordering, and I got a very basic customization.

The Fulla sounds better. Personally I don't understand the popularity of FiiO products. I've done a comparison between the two and the DAC portion of the Fulla is definitely superior.

Interesting news, I wonder if they'll offer them for sale for current owners. Or whether the difference matters much at all.

Vertical Sticker on the back should tell you

Looking for an update on my Zoetic, should be finished soon according to my original order!

Dang. That sounds amazing. I think it's going to be awhile before I can justify getting the Yggy. Here's hoping the eventual next Gumby upgrade gets some of that sound!

Did you go from Gungnir Multibit to Yggy? Curious to hear how the HEK sound changes based on that. All I've heard is that the Yggy is a bit more 'analytical' vs. musical. 

Thanks @Ishcabible for hosting and @JoshMo @Hi-Fi EDU for the detailed write-ups! I got to finally try some cool gear I was curious about hearing and everyone was really nice.   Like I said at the meet, I'm still learning how to articulate my thoughts on headphone differences without it...

I've also heard on this forum of people owning hifi gear for decades that was left on and works great still. So who know really haha