I plan on trying a powered USB hub as well as a power conditioner to plug all equipment into.

Wouldn't the same apply to the Dacport LX as well - it also runs off USB.  I was told that the asynch HRTs should be set to lower/est buffer rather than high buffer.  I am using a Streamer II with JRiver - Wasapi Event Style and it works flawlessly.  I am also going to try a USB hub to further...

Thank you.  Yes, the Dacport is a nice product but I only need a DAC as I use a desktop amp already.  So the choice is between HRT Streamer II+, Dacport LX and VDAC II.

Preliminary impressions (no burn in - just a couple of hours out the box) Sounds good - more spacious, clear and resolving than the Fiio E10 (E10 is slightly warmer, muddier and narrower sounding).  The lack of volume knob is a bit cumbersome/tricky but it does have volume control through the...

All of the above and any comparison to the V-Dac II? Actually, I use HRT Streamer II (new version) and it sounds great at 1/3 price...

Cool, thanks!

Is there an HF-2 graph available?

Any more comparisons to RS2i, RS1i and HF2?

The linked "review" is ridiculous...

Any speculation as to what the external metal adds to SQ or anything else in addition to the inner wooden chamber other that weight (a bad thing)?

The SQ of the C5 is excellent.  However, I returned a pair as the hoop system is uncomfortable, unfortunately, for extended listening.

Thanks - I did see your comparo and it was very helpful.  Wondering if the MS-2i (at less than half the price) are a better "competitor" for the PS 500 instead of the 325. The HF2 are more closed in than the MS-2i but bass is better. MS-2i seems the more enjoyable of the two unless going for...

Still no more comparisons to HF2, RS-1i, RS-2i, MS-2i, 325is?

I don't think so, but regardless, if you haven't heard them then you don't know their SQ.  I listened to them with a variety of music and they do sound very good and right up there with the best universals.  SQ wise they do not give up anything to the Monster but are very sensitive to tip...

If you haven't heard them then...   Surely, the B&W brand is not even in the same universe as Bose!  

Sq is perfectly fine - it's the hoop system that is a deal breaker. 

Matter of personal opinion - there are glowing reviews out there as well (for example, see Steve Guttenberg's review http://news.cnet.com/8301-13645_3-20085869-47/bowers-wilkins-c5-earbud-is-a-winner/).  Ultimately it's the user's call.  I find no SQ deficiency.  The loop system though is yet to...

True but the B&W are especially quirky as they have a very different loop and it, additionally, it limits how deep the tip can be inserted.  They sound great but the comfort would be a very personal thing and may not be everyone's cup of tea.   The Trumpets are very quirky in the looks...

Indeed, the reviews are all over the board and most likely due to the unusual fit and tip selection.  Once properly fitted, they are quite good.

The B&W C5 may be in the run for one of the best universals as well...

USB 2.0 A to Micro B.

Ok, so after much listening and comparing - the Denon's Denon AH-C560R with Skull Candy large black silicon tips (need I repeat they are only $99 before any coupons, etc. at Best Buy) come out on top.  Plus, stealthy looks and comfort a better too.  Only minus for the Denon's might be durability...

Here comes the hype police...

The Trumpets are the best Monster IEMs and, perhaps, the best universal IEMs.

The Trumpet have now topped the MTPC.  SQ is quite close yet comfort and weight are way better and there is no driver flex.  The Skull Candy tips fit fine.  Sennheiser IE tips would likely fit as well.  While an amp may not be necessary, the Leckerton UHA-4 is a great match.  All that said, the...