I was saying the latter. I find DNA amps help mitigate the lower bass quantity of the HD-800S.

Actually I haven't heard the 2022, and that might make a big difference. I agree that the Utopia is more dynamic, but I found the HD-800S to sound more natural. For that fast, dynamic, harder-hitting sound I ended up preferring the ZMF VO with Be2 pads. The sound signature is similar to the...

I'm pretty sure I'm in the minority on this, but I prefer the HD-800S to the Utopia coming from the Stratus (and Stellaris). Utopia images better, but the HD-800S wins out for soundstage. I find them very close when it comes to resolution/technicalities, so this is just a personal preference...

I wouldn't say the AO was lacking in any particular area. For me it was a case of the AC being preferable in a number of areas, with no real drawbacks. The imaging is sharper, it hits harder in the midrange, and the bass response is amazing. It's more engaging, and the whole presentation comes...

That was exactly how it went for me as well. I like the AO but I have a strong preference for the AC. When it comes to VC/VO, I wouldn't want to be without either one.

It's possible, but I'm pretty sure both of the pairs that I posted are Universe. I've got a multiple other BE2 pads and they are all thinner. You're right though, the perforation on my newer Universe looks like it matches up with the BE2 in your photo.

With most ZMF's I have a clear preference for certain pads, but with the VO I always find myself going back and forth between the BE2 and the Universe. I find the BE2's to be a little more neutral, harder hitting, with a smaller but maybe more clearly defined soundstage. With the Universe pads...

Quick communication, careful and fast shipping, excellent condition. Highly recommended.

ZMF Atrium in limited Bubinga wood I picked this up recently here in the classifieds recently but decided to go in another direction. Offering them up for the same price I paid. The headphones are in excellent shape with no functional or aesthetic issues. ZMF Lektrik S cable included along with...

Easy transaction, great communication, honest description and quick shipping. Thanks!

Focal Utopia 2020 Headphones I just picked these up in the Classifieds a few days ago, and decided that they aren't for me. The sound is crystal clear and the headphones are super clean. A few very minor signs of use, but absolutely no scratches or scuffs. I'll include the original invoice...

Thanks. That all makes perfect sense. I’ve got a Benchmark HPA4 that I can always use with the Caldera, but I really love the Stellaris and go with it almost every time I listen to headphones.

Insanely nice!!

For an opposing opinion, in my experience woods on opposite ends of the hardness scale will show clear differences. I can’t imagine comparing something like cherry with ironwood and not hearing each as unique. If you’re comparing woods that are closer to each other on the spectrum, the...

I apologize if this has been asked before, but do you find the Caldera to be a good match with the Stellaris? I’ve been thinking about either the Caldera or the closed version once it comes out.