looks exactly like them.

I use these sheepskin earpads: https://www.amazon.com/Ablet-Replacement-headphones-Sheepskin-Cushions/dp/B06XQY6LW3/ref=pd_sim_23_10?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=MMFTEWBD0NQTDFFH1WHA $25 and better build quality than the Hifiman earpads. Keeps most of the same audio properties as the Focuspads...

I got my Wharfedale Diamond 225 bookshelf speakers from MusicDirect as Demo/Open Box and they looked brand new with all accessories still in original unopened packaging.

Sorry for the late reply. Still dealing with Irma aftermath. I personally prefer the Oppo as my portable merely for the tighter fit and lower profile. I trade-off a little in sound for aesthetics. The N.O. are definitely my go to headphones as transportable though, ex: taking to office, on...

I tried another aftermarket cable, but it was a cheapie and it sounded the same. I was unconvinced changing the cable on this headphone would make much of a difference since it uses such little wattage. Have you noticed an improvement with a particular cable? I might check into it or build my...

Yes, just need T6 hex bit.

I can write something up this weekend on it with pics. Pretty easy mod because disassembly is easy.

Finally got around to modding my Meze 99 Classics today. I am very happy with the results. I was never happy with the sound since I had purchased them, but loved the looks, comfort, and how easy they are to drive. The part I hated was that the bass bled into the mids with the newer larger...

ifi micro iCan SE - $299. Very nice amp for the price that can power most any headphone, with very useful (not gimmicky) Bass boost ability and Crossfeed options marketed as XBass and 3D.

Sounds like an adapter issue to me. Do you have other 1/8" to 1/4" adapters to try?

For me, the best closed-back headphones I have heard and own................wait for it.....................................Audioquest NightOwl Carbon. I am sure there are others with higher price tags that have it beat, but my search for closed-backs stopped with the NightOwl. Note: I own the...

HE560 with MMX connectors are the original release ones. The 2.5mm connections are the current production ones. I can't comment on the Monoprice headphones because I have not heard them, but from reading they require some mods to have great sound. I have been eyeing the HE560 myself since I...

Other options are Schiit Eitr or iFi Micro iDAC 2.

I must admit I do enjoy the feel of the Ultrasuede earpads, but it takes out the low end in the music I listen to. The boost pads can be a little too hot in the treble. I am interested in trying to find the hybrids. I emailed the sales rep again with the info you provided. BIG THANKS! I got my...

I am interesting in how you went about ordering the hybrid pads. Which headphone were they on? I emailed the audioquest sales rep for my area and he didn't know what I was talking about.

Since most of your options you are weighing include the GSX 1000, I would say get the GSX 1000 first and see how you like it with your AKGs. If you don't like the pairing, you would then have a better understanding why since the AKGs are fairly neutral and analytical. Then you can get the gear...

I was tempted by these. I decided to pass, though, since I already have the HE400S. I was hoping for a 5XX.

I had the iPower hooked up with the iDefender which created static going into my Modi Multibit. So it might be worth a shot in your case.

Have you tried not using the included iPower and feed it 5V from the Airport Express USB port?

There isn't a "best". There is simply a best for you. I would go somewhere where you can audition different bookshelf speakers with your music. You will probably find that your taste in speaker sound will coincide with your preferences with headphones. If you tend to like neutral to...

You might find who does your local home theater installs. They might have expanded to include some headphones. Other than that, I have found a couple of headphone boutique shops in my area that only carry mainly Beats and V-Moda. Another option is to buy from sites like Audio Advisor and get...

Denon MM400. Great compliment to rock music and makes the kick drum "kick". Probably the punchiest of all my headphones and one of my favorite portable headphones for modern rock and pop.

It really depends on the headphones you end up choosing. I find hybrid tube amps work great with Hifiman.

It is something you have to hear for yourself. I have tried other budget DACs and DAC/Amp combos. But once I tried the Modi Multibit in my system, it just gave me what I was missing from the others. To sum it up, it gives more dynamics and more an analog sound. Edit: Also if you found a place...

Noise can be a big issue for some people depending on equipment which is why companies such as iFi has so many products to combat the problem. I personally use an iFi iSilencer and iPurifier in my system. I don't think I really need them now. But with one DAC that I was using, I could hear a...