I had the Ether C and returned it in favor of the Oppo PM 3. I could not justify the price/performance difference. With my setup the bass was too weak on the EC.

After 3 weeks with the Ether C, I have returned it because:   1. Weak bass response. Mr. Speaker informed me that my amp/DAC (Oppo HA-2) was not a fit for the Ether. That's too bad because, I am very happy with it. It works great with my other HPs. 2. Detailed was very good but not...

The reviews of the Ether at Innerfidelity.com prompted me to give them a try. However, I am not seeing a significant SQ improvement over my HE-400S or Oppo PM-3 to justify the huge price difference. Before sending them back, I am giving them some more break in time. My issue is the base is not...

That is very interesting in that the Ether lovers on this site are selling their LCD-X's. Were you comparing the open or closed Ether?

Anyone compared the HEX to the Ether or Ether C?

If the product is butt ugly or looks cheap, it won't sell.

So why would almost every high end supplier spend so much money in packaging and needless materials to add flash and looks that has nothing to do with performance?

My wife's handbags are overpriced. She does not agree. From her perspective she is sold on the the brand name. Even when I explained that I was in China and know that they many of the brands are made in the same factory.  My Maui Jim sun shades are overpriced at $300--the same company makes most...

The reason manufacturers invest big dollars in the presentation because it has been proven to improve sales.

Overprice in that has not proven to add sonic improvement.

Has anyone tried the Edition X?

I would like to participate in the loaner program. Currently, I own the Oppo PM-3, Hifiman 400S, and the Mr. Speaker Ether.

What I did not mention was that the box was great but the product had to be returned twice for bad drivers. After the second try, I gave up the EL-8.    The point is with packaging is that it sells the product by creating a perception. For most people this perception is reality for some it is...