[FraGGleR]

I don't expect that any IEM could replicate the open, detailed spaciousness of the HD800, but what comes closest?  I might have to move entirely away from headphones to IEM's exclusively and am trying to get an idea of what my choices are.  I listen to a lot of classical so ability to reproduce details in space is the biggest thing I want.  I would prefer solid bass capabilities because the other genre I listen to most is electronica type stuff.
 
I won't say price is no object since it is always a consideration, but I am possibly replacing my entire main rig so the money is there for a TOTL IEM.  I would prefer not to get customs, but if that is the way to go, then so be it.

 

[techboy]

The best universal is ie800.

 

[formula1]

AKG K3003?

 

[FraGGleR]

Thanks. Have you two listened to those IEMs and the HD800s? I'm familiar with what the TOTL IEMs are, but would like sound comparisons if possible.

 

[formula1]

I've only listened to the HD800, but not the 3003 yet. From what people say, they are similar in some aspects (to the HD800) sound wise. It's hard to find a user who owns them where i live unfortunately. 

 

[lin0003]

Quote:

I've only listened to the HD800, but not the 3003 yet. From what people say, they are similar in some aspects (to the HD800) sound wise. It's hard to find a user who owns them where i live unfortunately. 

I've heard both recently but not side by side and I thought the AKGs had some more punch and wasn't nearly as unforgiving and the treble wasn't as shrill either. Personally, I liked the K3003 more, but YMMV. 

 

[FraGGleR]

Quote:

I've heard both recently but not side by side and I thought the AKGs had some more punch and wasn't nearly as unforgiving and the treble wasn't as shrill either. Personally, I liked the K3003 more, but YMMV. 

Great, thanks.  You say not as unforgiving.  Would you say that it was less detailed or something else?

 

[lin0003]

Quote:

Great, thanks.  You say not as unforgiving.  Would you say that it was less detailed or something else?

Slightly less detailed, yes.