Portable Headphones to replace Sony MDR-XB1000 - Page 2

Quote:

Originally Posted by HwangMiHee 

But wouldn't I have to recharge the FiiO E11 eaven if I used it as a desktop amp? Or can it be connected to some power source continously?

The E11 won't work while it is charging. otherwise it seems like a very nice product. The E6 will work while charging, however it has less power.

The E7 will act as your sound card, so as long as you have it plugged in through USB, it will bypass your computer's sound card. It won't matter what your computer has. I'm not familiar with the sound card you named, but unless you specifically purchased a superior one, I'd say chances are that the E7 will sound better.

Adding the E9 is definitely a good idea if you're looking for great desktop sound. I'm sure a lot of people here will recommend more expensive alternatives (which I haven't auditioned) but I am never left wanting for more power. I think there is another FiiO product that is an improvement over the E9 but I don't remember which one it was, you can look into that. Also, I find that the E9 works well with IEMs too. My new Monster Miles Davis Tribute IEMs sound noticeably more controlled and powerful with the E7/E9 combo than with the E7 alone.

In case this wasn't explained already, the E7 can dock onto the E9. The E7 will act as a DAC (which improves the sound very noticeably, especially by controlling the bass) and the E9 as an amplifier (providing more power to the headphones). You will plug in the E9 directly to your computer's usb.

EDIT: The E17 is FiiOs upgrade from the E7. Looks wonderful. However for some reason the description says it can function for 15 hours, which is a huge downgrade from the E7's 80 hours. Hmm..

I can't recommend anything other than the E9+E7 since this is the setup I have and I haven't heard anything pricier or better. Except perhaps the E9+E17, since from what I understand this allows you to use the bass boost function of the E17 through the E9.

If you like the sound signature in your HD555s and youre willing to spend the money, I'd suggest the HD650s. They are one of the most popular headphones on head-fi, and will likely be the next headphones I buy when I save up for them.