Based on the thread in the main headphone section, it the build is better than the l300/500. Seems like the tuning is more neutral and homage to the vintage Sr-x (which is probably where the name originates), although it is an over the ear not an on-ear like the original Sr-x.

My neighbor owns the 2.0µm Sr-lambda NB from 1979 and I used to own the Lambda Nova Signature 1,5µm. The LNS is imo the best all-arounder lambda. It has a house-signature close to the sr-omega. It doesn't do anything better, but when listening you feel that it lacks nothing. Relaxed, but not...

Having heard/had time with these headphones (SGL, he1, warwick) I can promise you there isn’t anything cost wise going on there that the x9k didn’t already incur from R&D or parts. Please don’t wish this on us.

The original sr-omega grill is straight. It’s also a thicker driver and the pads as mentioned before, have less of a seal. These are probably the biggest factors in differences between them. 007 is more unique because the electrode has no holes which then provides an increases diaphragm...

Redesigning the x9000 with a ring that is straight outward instead of angled might help it retain closer to the sr-omega sound. There is something weirdly thin/stretched about the x9k that doesn’t happen with the omega and 007 which may also be baffling related. Based on previous release dates...

Don’t forget the additional fire insurance lol

I really wanted to like them but sonically I felt they didn’t do anything special for an estat. I’m not a big fan of the x9k (sold mine) but the appeal for the x9k it is pretty straight forward given its very spacious soundstage and laser separation. The Shang is similar to the x9k and the 009...

Understood. But if we’re talking about building things ourselves this is completely different as one can build a carbon for $2k~ depending on the case. And the pricing you’re talking about is only with regards to Mjolnir. $3.5k new is about the rate for European builders and resale is stable at $3k.

100% x9k. Not on the GC but owned the x9k for a long time and recently had the SGL for a weekend. I’m using a megatron.

The transformer box situation is not that controversial. A well made Lundahl transformer box is $1500~ and the cost of a proper speaker amp for the job is $2500+ (used) which basically works out to the same price as a new carbon (actually Dukei, Soren and other builders make carbons for under...

One thing that doesn't get talked about enough when these conversations come up is that some of the direct drive amps have a bit of coloration added to the sound due to the mosfet translation stage; the BHSE / T2 for instance. I love both amps, and it actually can work in favor of the modern...

Right now Schiit yggy A2. Maybe I’ll go dCS in the future but I’m okay with the pairing for the moment.

No worries buddy - I just want to add some clarity. The old Novem (1 box) and new Novem (2 box) are not redesigned amps or anything of that nature. In fact one of the new Novem birgir built is even using the previous PCB left over. There have been no tweaks made for the x9k. Birgir just wanted...

Stax Sr-lambda normal bias 1979 Hifiman shangri-la SR Stax Sr-007 mk1 712xx

This is incorrect. The Novem was designed for the 009. The new Novem and the redesign 2 box are identical sounding. I was one of the first owners of the Novem/x9k it works well because it hides the thinness the x9k imo portrays. It is a very unique amp. Low power so useless for 007 and crbn...