[boomana]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Audio-Omega /img/forum/go_quote.gif I will probably go with Zu Mobius then, a bit more treble wouldn't hurt. Those cables aren't cheap, I can pay a bit more to buy another pair of headphones but I only want one at this time. Is Audio-Technica ATH-W5000 considered a step up from Sennheiser HD650 ?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andrew_WOT /img/forum/go_quote.gif Can't go wrong with Zu. W5000 is more like a side step. Has better details, soundstage, more accurate and tight bass, very fast, but overall sounds thinner and brighter in comparison. Senns provide fuller and more relaxed sound.

I had the Zu, but found it too harsh for my tastes. If you're looking for a dramatic change, the Zu will do it, though. Many people, whose opinions I respect, like it a lot. I prefer the Equinox and have the RnB G52 (don't know if he's around anymore), which I love. I've never heard Moon Audio single-ended, but have a balanced Black Dragon, which is real nice when I've been able to mooch off others' balanced rigs. I'm imagine the single-ended would be good as well.

You don't have your profile filled out, so I couldn't tell what amp/source you're using. I know from experience how mediocre and how amazing the Senns can sound dependent upon amp/source. I've owned nine amps, and only one in my current stash does the Senns justice, though I've heard marked improvements with even small upgrades. Before you consider a recable, consider your amp and source. You'll notice the biggest improvements there first.

Quote:

Originally Posted by rumatt /img/forum/go_quote.gif How bad can the stock cable be that a cable upgrade makes THAT much of a difference? This is a bit hard to believe guys.

It really does make that much of a difference, but only if the rest of your rig is capable of picking up on it. It's money down the drain otherwise.

 

[Audio-Omega]

My source is a Sony CD player and my amp is a Musical Fidelity X-Can v3. I will get a better source when the Sony is broken, or may be I should get another cheap transport but a good DAC.

What good DACs are available for around $500 ?

 

[boomana]

I know nothing about dacs, but if you visit the source forum, you'll find plenty of folks to help you out there. I see as many or more stand-alone dac threads than anything else. I've only heard the X-Can v3 one time, and it was modded. I didn't hear with the Senns.

 

[vcoheda]

Quote:

Originally Posted by boomana /img/forum/go_quote.gif I had the Zu, but found it too harsh for my tastes.

the mobius-2 is not. not sure which version you are referring to. maybe the older model.

 

[Dept_of_Alchemy]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Audio-Omega /img/forum/go_quote.gif My source is a Sony CD player and my amp is a Musical Fidelity X-Can v3. I will get a better source when the Sony is broken, or may be I should get another cheap transport but a good DAC. What good DACs are available for around $500 ?

The Musical Fidelity X-DACv3 should be around your price range (perhaps just a little higher). Seems like it would be a good match with your amp. That dac in particular is really underrated in my opinion, try looking it up on Stereophile.