The Alessandro MS1(i)/Grado SR-80(i) are terrific headphones and one of the best bargins in cans. They sound great without an amp, but I personally feel the improvement that you get when ampped almost makes it required. To me, it's not a subtle change.
I had invested in expensive Senss and AKGs for 4 years. on a whim I bought a pair of MS1's and they blew my other headphones away, they are very special.
I have little reference to compare to, because all I've ever heard (besides my 20-year old Sony MDR7506's) are my recently purchased MS1s (which are now mod'd to MS1000's) pushed by a uDAC... but I'm diggin' that setup pretty hard. Excellent setup.
The difference between a stock MS1 with no DAC/amp and a mod'd MS1000 with a uDAC is pretty huge, though.
To the extent that they ever were, yes. They definitely haven't become outdated and not a ton has come in to challenge in the price range.
Some people prefer things like the AD700, HARX700/900 and a few others though. I tend to prefer the more nuanced AT sound sig (with a little bass boost) than the super upfront grado sound sig for most things.
Love my MS1i! I haven't tried as many phones as most people here, but haven't felt the need with them.
As far as amps, you can spend as little as $25 for decent Fiio E5 that gives the MS1i a decent boost. I also have an iBasso T3 and it is a nice small portable amp that takes the MS1i to a step up.
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Owned the MS1i multiple times. I agree that it is one of the best cans in it's price range, which one can safetly bypass the SR60, SR80, SR125, but do get the bowl pads (L-cushions).
I assume you know how it sounds like, it's exciting sound. If you prefer relaxing sound, Sennheiser HD555 is for you. We are talking about un-amp, right?
The sound quality of Grado SR60 seems similar when unamped and amped based on my porta amp PA2V2. I barely notice differences. Grado SR60 is I think also a perfect choice among headfiers who don't want to use an amp under $100.
Originally Posted by MD1032 /img/forum/go_quote.gif I would definitely agree with that statement, under the condition that you toss the comfies and get bowls.
I 100% agree with this assertion, as well. Best cans for under $100, period.
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