I just tried this on my HD598. Quite a brilliant solution indeed. I'll probably undo it as it's a little short for home use, as I like to walk around a bit to do things around my desk with headphones on, but definitely a great length for any portable can with a long cable.

  Quote: Thanks. I'd really appreciate it.   Quote: Thanks for the link. I've read through Mike's thoughts on the two before. I just find there to be a lack of comparisons between DAC/Amp combos in that price range, so I figured I'd ask if I could get another opinion...

Thanks for the review! I've been looking toward upgrading to an HD650-based set-up within the next 6 months or so, and the 160DS is definitely among my top choices. Is there any chance of getting a comparison of the 160DS with a Dacmini?

I have a Mac with a 64-bit Windows 7 partition. I've had the MSII for about 5 months now and I've never had an issue with it while I used Windows. And if I recall correctly, it was just plug-and-play, in terms of drivers and whatnot. And it was just off of a USB 2.0 port. Sorry to hear you're...

I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on the A900X vs. SRH940 when you get the chance ^^

I wear glasses and have the M50, HD598, and SRH940. In terms of comfort, the HD598 wins hands-down. The SRH940 has velour pads as well, but the actual cup is smaller. As I've worn the HD598's for a while now, there are indentations on the pads from where they touch my glasses, but I would rather...

Quote: Thanks ^_^     Quote: Thanks. I've also got a MusicStreamer II behind the monitor. I like this pair a lot for the HD598's. Don't know exactly how much is coming from each component, but the MSII+M-Stage adds a good amount of warmth to the overall sound sig. The mids...

Here's my first contribution to this thread       And my (relatively) old Nakamichi on an adjacent wall

The Piano Guys - Hits Volume 1  

Quote: Glad to hear you went with the HD598's and that you're enjoying them that much

You're most welcome

Have you tried changing the gain on the bottom of the M-Stage? There are four little switches you can change and there should be a diagram on the bottom as well that shows the 4 gain settings (0dB - 20dB). I'd definitely start there if you haven't had a chance to mess with those yet. I can't...

If I may butt in and add another DAC/Amp combo in that price range for your consideration: the CEntrance DACmini.   I've actually been contemplating the same thing as the OP, with the addition of the DACmini of course, as a future set-up based on the HD650. So I'd also be grateful if anyone...

Quote:   If you're getting these strictly for home use, I'd recommend the HD598. I think the HD598's and SRH940's both work wonderfully with female vocals and have many similarities, but if I had to pick one for home use I'd go with the HD598's. You say you're looking for more "intense"...