Thanks in advance for any help/advice.
Just entering this hobby slowly over the last few years. I've had the chance listen to a lot of great phones at RMAF, but not much aside from there. My listening is mostly pop, rock, folk and female vocalists. I tend to listen mostly at night before bed. My current set up is either iPhone or android phone into a PHA-3 listening balanced through Cardas a8s.

I've been toying with the idea of a full sized headphone and amp set up. I own a pair of Fostex/Massdrop.

Recently (prime day) I got a good deal on an HDVD80. I recall being enchanted with it when listening balanced and wanted to give it a try. Using my x00 has been a bit underwhelming--but I suspect this was due to poor impedance matching on my part.

So, what to do next. I've considered buying a pair of HD650 to try (balanced cables seem to be a bit few and far between on the boards), versus spending more money on an HD800. I think the 800s is too much money for me right now.

The other option is to return the amp and not do anything until RMAF/Canjam this year and see what strikes my fancy.

Anyone got any thoughts?

Thanks for reading.
Mark