David,   Since you work in the trade, I was pondering a few things, and was hoping for a glimmer of insight.  First, as awesome as your write-up is, it doesn't necessarily make decisions easier - I find myself engaging in as much handwringing as before.  Being that the HE-6/EF-6 combo...

just wanted to acknowledge your valiant efforts.  thank you!

Quote: I have this particular combo, and I find the background to be a bit grainy.  I've heard this is a tube thing.  However, with certain music, the sound is fuller than with my Burson.

Quote: if i'd have waited a week or two later, i'd probably have picked up the V200 over the Lyr only due to the fact that it's solid state.  As for the Pheonix.... that should prove interesting...

Quote: which one?  the HE-500 club?  the HE-500/Lyr club?  whatcha got in the bag, man?

Quote: My source is my laptop running WMA lossless files through the Zune software.  I'm using the DAC on the Burson, and I'm running the GE 6BZ7 NOS tubes, which were recommended by Jason.

Quote: Although (across the board) I haven't come to the same conclusion as you, it's always nice to know that someone somewhere is happy with their gear!  The reason I asked the question; for me, there is something missing and I am not certain if it's the headphone or the amp.  I can't...

i hate when i don't use "quote"

Quote:   I have the HE-500's and the Lyr as well.  I was wondering what you like/dislike about the pairing. 

Quote:   Thank you for your patience in answering these questions.

Keep it coming!  The more info the better!

Quote: I really appreciate the input.  One of the great things about a stereo setup is the ability to share the music, and move around a bit while doing so.  I already have a HT setup - Deftech Mythos STS/Ten (center)/GemXL (surround) but no dedicated room :-( so the actives will be for 2...

Music stores such as Guitar Center are great for auditioning.  They usually have all monitors set up in the same room and since you don't have to worry about separate amps etc, they're easy to compare.

Quote: When are you coming back to Afghanistan?  I'm in Bagram so bring some gear!

oops

Any recommendations, or am i going to have to dredge thru spec sheets?  I'll probably do it anyway of course - just looking for a good place to start.

What I want are monitors for my living room that might sound decent beyong a 1sqf "sweet spot", that may just so happen to be active.

Do most active monitors have good off-axis dispersion?  I was always under the impression that they were fairly focused due to use in near field applications.    I did watch the posted vid on the SE Electronics Egg 150 monitors, but their setup isn't much different than passive monitors -...

Quote:   In all seriousness, wouldn't it be more fun and possible less expensive buying/trading/comparing active speakers?  Or is there the fear that the differences in sound/coloration or what have you would no longer be worth the trouble?  I'm glad I found this thread.  After purchasing...

Quote: I completely agree with your wish for leaner, tighter bass with the D7000. I'm jealous that you get to go to a head-fi meet!  Be sure to bring your D7000 and be very careful with the amp you use for direct comparison with the HE-500.  If I didn't have the Lyr at my disposal, I...

Quote: Do you think the AKG line will move up fromt he K550's or down?  If they move up from the K550's I'm inclined to wait and see what happens. 

errant post....i'm doing it wrong.