R-10 + Emmeline amp
incredible! an immersive, 3D soundstage. despite what it looks like it is curiously lightweight. and comfy. understandably, the standard by which many are measured. I was actually nervous holding these things they cost so much.
Etymotic Er4S + HPA-1
I expected weak bass and weird microphonics, occulusion. However, paired with my HPA-1 amp, they sounded great! very detailed and the bass was okay. Side-effects were very tolerable. I liked how much isolation it gave in a noisy room. This is the must-have toy for me now.
HD600 + various amps
Pleasantly surprised. I didn't know what to expect after hearing a lot about it being "laid back" and "veiled". But vocals were very elegant with these. Music was extremely enjoyable on all the cords that I heard them on (even stock). They seem like a great, all-around type headphone.
Grado SR225, 325 + RA-1
very similiar, but a little better bass extension on 325 i think.
Grado RS-1 (with Senn pad mod) + various
(my cans) ... these are still great paired with my HPA-1, but they are not as "ultimate" as I thought before the show. They do not pair well with some amps and highs sounded screechy on some. However they mate excellent with the Emmeline. I found that alot of people do not like Grado at all because of comfort, price, or because they did not sample Grado on an agreeable amp. Still, for me, I need that Grado punch! And the RS-1 has a deep, extended bass that is hard to match.
AKG K1000
Well, they sounded like speakers strapped to my head. They were turned up very loud and the highs were too piercing so I didn't listen for long. where was the volume knob!
AudioTechnica W2002 + HPA-1
These just sounded weird and funky and I couldn't decide what to think about them. seemed like parts of the spectrum were really boosted. They were not as huge as I imagined.
Meridian CD player
Wow. well... I'm used to a Sony D25S as my main unit so it was a slight improvement.
Sony 7506 out of portable CD players
These had crazy-bass that reminded me of my Beyer DT770's (havn't listened to them in awhile now). I can see why these are popular cheapies. Isolation was better than expected too. but they sure made you aware of the HISS from PCDP's.
Emmeline + AD opamp
full, rich, quiet, and small! A big hit at the show. Seemed that most all the headphones like it.
I was overwhelmed with options on day 1 and just tried a little of this and that. I wanted to do a more methodical study on day 2 but I had my gf along and we ended up exploring chicago. I had a great time!
