The SMSL M400 with the AK4499 chip and MQA support. Or the Gustard A18 DAC that uses the same TOTL chip, but without MQA support. These are some of the best most natural sounding DACs in my opinion and I prefer the sound signature over the ES9038Pro chips. The AK4499 chip is more natural...

I’m not sure if they’re helpful or not. I hope so. Good luck!

This is a tough one. If only there was a tiny screw with a hollow center where you can thread it in and pull it out. That’s the only solution that comes to mind for me. However, before you toss them, contact Fiio customer support. Who knows, they may be able to help you and send a replacement...

Just chiming in to say that @AlwaysForward is accurate in his description of the VZR Model One. The hype is real and definitely worth a try. You will not be disappointed.

If you are somehow looking for a similar sound signature to take on the go, I would recommend checking out the Final Audio A4000. It really is surprising how similar the two sound. They're $160 USD and you can worry less about losing them while on the go.

My H20 is also configured with the SparkOS upgrade as well. Sorry, I failed to mention that, but it is still pretty bright in the treble with the HEKSE. This is more due to the character of the HEKSE, though. There is just a lot of detail forced at you in the highs with these headphones. It’s...

Well, you convinced me to try them out and they arrived today. Initial impressions are actually pretty good. They have a solid build, the pads are lush and comfortable, and the sound is very impressive for the price point. These headphones do an excellent job in representation of male and female...

That's actually a pretty good Top 3, in my opinion. I like the variation due to the different sound signatures that each emits. I'm at the point where I want to limit my TOTL headphones to specific sound signatures, and though this headphone isn't anywhere near the cost of the others, you may...

I just started to head down the speakers rabbit hole and have noticed that there are many more DAC options. Ultimately, I think it comes down to the age of the speakers hobby versus the headphones hobby, and it comes down to the companies that market to them. The speakers hobby is an older and...

I have this setup actually. I have the amp paired with the Gustard X26 DAC too and it gets a little hot in the treble at times and tend to get fatigued sooner when listening. I would recommend sticking with the Arya because it has more of a fun sound. However, if you're looking for clinical...

The Focal Clear is a great set, but if you're looking for something different near $1000 with clarity, I would recommend adding the Hifiman Arya to your collection. It is a Planar headset so will sound different than the Dynamic driver in your Clear. There will be more grandness and airiness to...

The Focal Elex is a good next step.

Check out the Sony MDR-Z7M2. They’re the definition of fun for me. But if you’re looking for a lot of slam, the DT-1770, Fostex, and Denon headphone options will deliver.

Great response to those who clearly didn’t watch the video but yet are so happy to spread hate on things they know nothing about and then ultimately now sound like the dumb ones.

Yes. Check out the Topping DX3 Pro. It’s a good starter amp that will allow you to connect via Bluetooth.