This is probably the old school...  

Quote: Another great advice. Thanks. I didn't want to make this thread too focused on amplifiers but I think now the title is asking for it. So keep your thought coming and I will try to make a summary at the end for more convenience.    

Quote: And just to proof my point - going through a few first pages on high-end forum I found no questions about bass whatsoever.  

First of all, I think you are mixing both young people and new audiophiles in the same bag and call them newbies. I am 40 and yet I am a newbie in audiophile world. I have no interest in pop or rock now. However, when I was 20, I couldn't care less about jazz and classical music and all I wanted...

And here is another interesting observation that came to my mind today which I wanted to bring to attention of those who may be interested in K70x. When I listen to an acoustic jazz band, piano concerto, or symphonic orchestra (exclusively via Pure Direct by the way, no bass boost), the bass...

Quote: Looks like Burson 160 is a definite winner and will be at the top of Christmas list to Santa from many K70x fans this year, including me.    And since I am writing, I couldn't help it to share - I just experienced something like a shock during listening FIRST TIME EVER...

Quote: Gotcha! Will do. Ironically, looks like I missed THE meet (sounds a bit strange, still need to get used to this term) in my city just by a couple of days (June 19th).  Will be watching for the next one.

Quote: Interestingly, my Yamaha E810 (microsystem) was released approximately the same year as A-S2000 (around 2007) and also conveys that retro-look with silver plates, separate components, plain simple design, and black Yamaha grand piano finish on speakers. This is why it cought my eye...

I really like that idea regarding vintage receiver. I do have nostalgia for vintage look and would definitely try going this route if the sound is as good as you describe (and no damage is done to the phones by older specs). I will definitely explore this alternative in the near future...

Thanks everyone for your feedback. With your help, I feel I am on the right track right now. I really don't want to turn this thread into another amplifier war debate. Your reassuting advice to listen to my system first and then decide where I want to go is what I wanted to hear. I know for sure...

^ Thanks for clarification. And great advice to OP. I also like your signature very much (wish I could come up with it first)   Cheers

Quote: Just googled SPL Phonitor and I would definitely not consider it as a 'start" for my budget. I am sure neither Bill Gates, although for a totally opposite reason. It looks more like a 'finish' to me. But are you trying to say that $160 Corda headfive may sound as good?    

Quote: Ha-ha, that is true. I try to keep my hands on the volume knob though. So far, so good.   Jokes aside, I have grown to be rather pragmatic in my purchsing decisions and always try to enjoy what I have first. Spending $500 on an amp is not going to make any dent in my budget but...

Quote: Yes, I know these kind of forums could become quite addictive. Luckily, my family and my wallet will always sound louder than any amplifier to my ears .    

Hi Reedo,   Looks like we are in the same boat - having big doubts about the ability of our hi-fi systems to drive K70x. As you may have already seen in my post I think we should relax a bit and give our components a chance to demonstrate what they can do.  I've read that most hi-fi...