[chargedcapacitor]

Since this will be my first totl headphone, could some of you recommend a good, low cost amp/dac and/or combo?

I really like the IHA-6 as an amp. Loads of power, hi current mode, and very clean.

 

[ufospls2]

I actually really like the tortishell. My glasses are similar ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ At least I'll be matchy matchy

 

[Alcophone]

Might as well dress for the occasion.

 

[cwoo]

I actually really like the tortishell. My glasses are similar ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ At least I'll be matchy matchy

They have that Warby Parker Glasses look. I bet it would like nice in person. I'm not going to pass judgement until seeing them in real life, but I am a little apprehensive.

 

[Currawong]

Does the LCD-5 only come in the orange tortoiseshell frame? Are there any other options, for instance just a plain black?

They should do a Vantablack frame. Seriously. It would be very trippy.

Eager to hear your thoughts on these vs your Susvara, D8k Pro, and LCD-R. Hopefully these will be another speedy detail monster to add to the collection!

So far, yes they are. Initial impressions are that they are another pair for which I wish I still had the DAVE here, so if you're looking for an excuse, consider it given.

 

[EMINENT]

What does “low cost” mean to you? $500, $2000, something else?

1-2k
I'm guessing the M15 isn't going to cut it.

 

[519514]

A. Super expensive means purchasers will skew older with more disposable income
B. Aesthetic design resembles a vintage luxury car interior console
C. Frequency response suggests this is more of a statement piece than technical marvel

I think we can picture precisely the customer type that Audeze is targeting with the LCD-5:

 

[Ciggavelli]

1-2k
I'm guessing the M15 isn't going to cut it.

Chord Hugo 2 on dealer discount or used. That is if the LCD-5s can be driven off them.

 

[chargedcapacitor]

A. Super expensive means purchasers will skew older with more disposable income
B. Aesthetic design resembles a vintage luxury car interior console
C. Frequency response suggests this is more of a statement piece than technical marvel

I think we can picture precisely the customer type that Audeze is targeting with the LCD-5:

Once again I'll say it for the kids in the back who can't hear:

ADHERENCE TO A FREQUENCY RESPONSE TARGET IS NOT THE ONLY METRIC TO JUDGE SOUND QUALITY.

It's measurable, and it gives a great indicator as to the tonality of a headphone. But I can give you a list a mile long of headphones that measure well but sound mediocre at best.

That is all.

 

[paradoxper]

They should do a Vantablack frame. Seriously. It would be very trippy.

So far, yes they are. Initial impressions are that they are another pair for which I wish I still had the DAVE here, so if you're looking for an excuse, consider it given.

Abyss tried with a practical black and it turned out ugly.

 

[519514]

Once again I'll say it for the kids in the back who can't hear:

ADHERENCE TO A FREQUENCY RESPONSE TARGET IS NOT THE ONLY METRIC TO JUDGE SOUND QUALITY.

It's measurable, and it gives a great indicator as to the tonality of a headphone. But I can give you a list a mile long of headphones that measure well but sound mediocre at best.

That is all.

Are you suggesting purchasers will not wear leopard skin underwear?

 

[EMINENT]

Chord Hugo 2 on dealer discount or used. That is if the LCD-5s can be driven off them.

I see you liked this @KMann. Have you personally tried this to be an acceptable pairing?

 

[cwoo]

Once again I'll say it for the kids in the back who can't hear:

ADHERENCE TO A FREQUENCY RESPONSE TARGET IS NOT THE ONLY METRIC TO JUDGE SOUND QUALITY.

It's measurable, and it gives a great indicator as to the tonality of a headphone. But I can give you a list a mile long of headphones that measure well but sound mediocre at best.

That is all.

100%! Well said! We all like measurements, manufacturer numbers, and graphs, and they all serve their purpose, but they are not the end all be all (not even close). I only look to FR graphs mainly for help with EQ profiles. They are never a great indicator of a headphones capability. And to your point, some of the worst headphones have pretty decent and neutral or harman FR graphs.

 

[KMann]

I see you liked this @KMann. Have you personally tried this to be an acceptable pairing?

DAC and Amp choices are quite personal, for my preferences, it is a good pairing and portable too.

 

[fugimax]

Pulled the trigger on these earlier. Will be driving them with some Schiit gear (Gungnir multibit / Mjolnir). Can’t wait!