^I felt your response hit the nail right on the head. We all have bias even subconsciously. Headphones experiences can be very subjective based on the genre of music. I too was waiting to jump on the Audeze bandwagon after hearing great things but was scared away from the LCD line due solely to...

^Good feedback from your listening session. There's been lots of hype over these headphones but I think it's safe to say for me I'd like a definitive comparison between these and the HE-560 (despite the retail cost difference). My limited use of my HE-560 is very positive and a good improvement...

Might want to point out that HiFiMan used "real" wood in their HE-560 and not veneer.  Their HE-1000 might be veneer but the wood grain was a better choice.  For a highend brand like Audeze, I say keep with a classy faux wood veneer or opt out.  The lighter color zebra wood veneer is borderline...

My vote is for a black brushed aluminum veneer in replacement of the zebra wood veneer.  Otherwise black alone will make it look plastic and cheap.  I think Audeze opened a can of worms in announcing they'll "look into a black version".  The expectation is high with this now.     In addition...

For those that purchased one, just curious if these were new or returned/demo units for this price?

A bit off topic but where can I find a new HE-560 for $739?  I assume that's USD?  I might be interested at the price considering everywhere I looked they are closer to $899.

To be 95% performance of a product that cost 43% more is a failed business strategy that I think Audeze clearly avoided. I personally like the new "look" of the EL-8 and the weight savings and would probably give them a try. I'm not fond of the veneer pattern though. Wish it was a better rose...

That makes sense.  You saved me a trip to BB.  Seems like no local authorized dealer near me to demo this unit.  Kind of difficult to drop over a grand to demo it and return it online. 

At the bottom of OPPO's website there's a find local dealer link. I typed in my zip code and Magnolia showed up. I didn't realized they had high end headphone stuff there but plan to take a look next time I'm at BB.

That sounds like a great deal. Rarely do they show up in the FS section.

Just curious if many of you owners are buying this unit locally or online and are you guys paying retail for it? Their site doesn't list authorized online resellers but it appears that Best Buy Magnolia carries them. Guess I can always swing by and demo them before deciding.