Thanks Gang, confidence in rucksack I ventured into the unknown, trying different combinations, alas, no sweet treats to be had, I think I must be getting too used to my current rig, and any other combination just sound like watered down beer.

Thanks PM, As to why? Just idle curiosity, and at times I've wondered whether a particular amp and dac combination 'might' sound different or better. I currently have two separate chains, one for classical (HD800s one a SE amp, because I love the clarity of this setup) and one for American...

Help me please, despite googling I can't seem to nail the intrigues of the balanced and SE chain. Is it OK to mix balanced and single ended in the one chain? For example balanced DAC into an amp that has SE and balanced output but earphone is single ended and plugged into the single ended...

I have the B&W PX and my wife has the Bose QC35II, I like the PX better (after about a week of burn in), Since this is a gift, IMHO, the PX would look and feel more 'premium'. Noise cancelling wise, the ANC on the Bose is better though.

Thanks mate, no need for commiseration, my wallet is already dry before I set foot in this bar :-)

Hi every body, new here but am really an old dog wishing to learn new tricks...