Now I'm leaning towards the Corda Opera and new cables for my 580's with 650's on the horizon and maybe another 'phone. I shall continue updating the good headfiers with my internal struggle

They're the only one's I've got...for now

Thanks for the great start. I also wanted to add that I don't listen at a particularly loud volume. Probably 75-85% of the time, I could carry on a regular volume conversation with someone while listening to my 580's (if I had people to talk to besides the voices in my head, of course). In the...

I know, I know. I have read several of these threads here (shoot me, I'm new...lol) and I know to truly get the sound you're looking for, you need to audition a variety. However, I work too many hours and live in the hours most others are asleep. This inhibits such activities and I live my life...

Quote: Originally Posted by silverrain I would get the maxxed and a set of Denon D2000 for around $250 or so -- you will have a hard time wiping the smile off your face with that for starters. THEN, you can ride the slippery slope of "upfraditis" trying various cans, until you...

I didn't get my brother when he graduated from college and his birthday is in December right there with Christmas. Not that you needed any of this info but I thought I'd volunteer. I want to get him addicted to headphones and I would just give him my HD580's and total bithead when I do some...

Quote: Originally Posted by feifan Good question. Your options are really two: HRD Balanced or HRD-SE maxed-out. Which is better? I'm still wrestling with this one. I bought the balanced thinking of getting rid of the SE. But I can't seem to do it because the SE still gives me SQ...

Quote: Originally Posted by steaxauce If you're going to be spending that much on your headphone setup, I'd spend a little more on your headphones, since headphones make the biggest difference in sound quality. The Edition 9 is my favorite. If I bought those, the best amp/dac...

Before I even ask the question, the answer is Max Balanced Desktop (but we know that can't be the answer...hence the question). I am in the market for a new rig. I was going to blow some mooolah on a stereo but then I was reminded that I live in an apartment with thin walls when the...