Am I to guess that there aren't any IEMs that fulfill my requirements? I've tried the Shure SE425 - but the cable pooped out after a few months, and the sound was only okay.

Budget? I'd like to keep it under $500, though I'm open to trades or used gear, if necessary.

I have Sennheiser HD800 headphones, and want a similarly good IEM. I know, that's a big field, so I'll narrow things down: 1. I like treble detail, and detest bass boom. In other words - good balance. 2. Comfort is a big concern. I've tried Etys, and they felt almost painful. (And the sound was...

I've enjoyed an HD800 phone for years. I'm not considering selling it. But I'd like to get a contrast headphone that will let me listen to music that's more fun. I detest bass bloat, but I also like it when a pair of phones render music with more impact. I want it to be easy to drive, no amp...

I'd get one of these - maybe if there were a Fostex TR-xx9! (We can only hope.)

These phones remind me of the K1000s - which is why the HD800/HD800S is so comparatively attractive for most. And here's a factoid that's worth chewing over: with Dekoni lambskin pads, the HD800 suddenly has a lean, smooth bass. I believe the main attraction of upgrading to an HD800s is to get...

That's where I'd like to be - a good amp and clean sound, without harshness or strange artifacts. But I've learned a few things here: (1) one thing that will substantially improve sound is top-notch amplification, (2) mods may make things better, but rarely solve an audio issue entirely, and...

You make a good argument. It makes sense to purchase an HD800S - but probably less so if you already own an HD800. From what I've read, the DuPont mod will help reduce the resonance, and without much effect on the Dekoni pads (which I already have). The biggest issue is an audiophile fact of...

This is an interesting discussion, but my narrow question is even more difficult to answer: An HD800 with Dekoni calfskin pads VS An HD800S. In your opinion, is the upgrade to the HD800S significant enough to sell my old headphone and get a new one? Or is it one of those "incremental"...

Here's my question - and I'm certain someone here has an answer. I'm an early adopter of the HD800 (#595), and last year, I replaced the deteriorating foam pads for the Dekoni calf-skin pads. The difference, before and after Dekoni, has been quite noticeable, especially in the mid-bass...

Thanks for the fast recommendation on the Massdrop phones. I did some research, and also discovered that used versions of these phones are going for very good prices ($315-425).

I really, really like the HD800 - and have no intention of selling them. However, I'm looking for headphones that will give me a "fun," energetic sound. Among the competitors so far? 1. Denon AH-7000, 7200: I don't like headphones with flabby bass, but these are said to deliver bass with power...

Anal C*nt Anal Vomit

Kansanturbakomissio (They're also called KSMB; they're Finnish.) Impaled Rektum (Finnish metal.)

My HD800s sound great, but the pads are starting to wear. It's time to get new pads.   The problem is, the pads cost between $75-85 - and that's way, way more than pads for other phones.    What's a less expensive alternative for the foam Sennheiser 534411 pads? Does any headphone have pads...

The great thing about the Piston 3 is the value. Obviously, you can pay more for better audio quality - or less for okay sound. But the Piston 3 has the whole package: excellent packaging, good sound, excellent value. And the earphones are a fine value, as long as you steer away from the fakes...

Good information.   The Realizer looks impressive, though you're right - it isn't cheap.   It's interesting....the Ossic X has a decent price, and Kickstarter write-ups always make the device seem great.    Thanks for the info!

I'm a big fan of Senn's HD800 - but I'm wondering if there's any consensus on 3D headphones. Or, alternatively, whether there's a way to give 3D spatial characteristics to ordinary phones.   Any hints?

If you're listening on your iMac, your best option is to use Apple's iTunes, with Sound Enhancer. The software is free with the OS.   If you're listening on an iPad, Boom is maybe your most versatile option. Not as good as an amp, but there are lots of options for EQ. They update on a regular...

Consider that I really, really like the HD800.   That said, the HD650 has a rich, organic sound that comes close to listening to live music. I've always been unsatisfied without an amp; amped, these headphones deserve high praise. On the other hand, the HD600 has a sound that's best suited for...

I think you have it right - or at least, that's how it worked out for me.   The K701 is a fine headphone, but best suited for more "refined" music that's lighter on bass. The HD800 is notably more accurate and better suited for a variety of music - though metal, reggae, and hip-hop is better...

Unamped, the HD800 is the winner, hands down. Not that you'll be listening to music this way, but the volume is just fine, and there's plenty of detail.    Amped. both phones reach their potential. The K701 has lots of detail in the treble - which I love - but there's only adequate bass, even...

From what I remember, the DT880 (1993?) came out with a flat aluminum mesh exterior, larger cups, and a dryer overall sound; also, there was outstanding soundstage and exceptional comfort. You could wear these phones for hours without noticing it. The only problem is that the highs didn't have...

"Rationial" reasons, right?   Assuming that a CD is mastered properly - which isn't always the case - a CD will last longer, be easier to process, and can have a more accurate sound. That's the rational argument.   But "rational" doesn't equate with "music" all the time. There's a special...