Listening to David Bowie - Black Star (song) on my Ether C using Ether (open) earpads. I'm legitimately scared. Don't...do...it.

Haha. I think your analysis is accurate. I'm a vocalholic. I still get my wide soundstage and hear instruments panned out, but I understand I'm probably in the minority.

I have tried about all combinations. I even bought the ether open ear pads. In the end this reverse 1.1 pad placement has been the first time I truly fell in love with my Ether C. While all the other arrangements I tried had all the right technical check offs, something was missing to truly make...

I have an alternate 1.1 setup that I love. It might seem blasphemous, but please don't knock it unless you try it. Place the 1.1 black foam over the driver FIRST. Then place the white felt over the black foam. White felt will not fit flush. Just take your finger and press it lightly around the...

Breaking in my Brooklyn DAC. Will purchase the xlr adapter for fully balanced glory. I prefer analog volume control over digital, more warmth.

I have the Ether C. I removed both white felts on the driver and placed one black tuning pad on each ear pad. This is the best combination for me. I retain excellent bass, mids, highs (not overly bright) and wide soundstage, but most importantly, vocals are pushed forward a bit. This feels more...