Magaosi K3 vs FLC8s
I hate to say it, but the FLC8s is still noticeably better to my ears. More crisp, all-around clarity; better 3D imaging. Bass rumbles about the same. Several times on:
https://soundcloud.com/locirecords/the-crossroads-a-loci-records-mix-by-edamame
I could hear the FLC's bringing out upper-lows and synths noticeably more clear. I do think that the Mids are a little more pronounced than the FLC8's and more clear. Of course, I'm not using the Mids boost FLC8 filters either, so maybe they aren't better.
The K3 is surprisingly more warm, so some may find it less fatiguing, as the FLC can make some fatigued; depending on the filters used, of course. The K3, however, does stand up to the challenge and fights respectfully. But, at the end of the day, the K3 is a College track athlete, while the FLC8s is going to the Olympics. The K3 is over half the price, so what do you expect; I guess... But, with the FLC8s having such effective filter options, the K3 doesn't have a chance sound-wise.
The K3 also has the much, much better MMCX connector, so I can use it with my Westone bluetooth cable if on the go, as well as some other great cables with Mic. The FLC8s is unfortunately bound to its stock cable, as not even the TF10 connectors will work with them. I may have to pay someone to make them into the CIEM 2-pin. So, that is definitely a huge plus with the K3 over the TF10, and it will continue to be a big plus for most my other comparisons; but its worth something; at least to me.
I was really hoping to find a Giant Killer with a less-marketed, obscure brand. But, so far, I've found just some really, really good value headphones with fun, enjoyable sound.
I will continue to post comparisons as I make my way through the comparisons. I started with one of my all-time favorites, so I suppose there could be some bias here. However, I REALLY, really wanted the K3's to win; so there was bias there too at the same time. K3's better at some things, while the FLC8s is better at a lot of things. Is it really worth the $150 cost difference? I say YES; for us audiophiles. For the average person; get the K3 and you'll be very happy.
Worth noting: I was not listening to my FLAC files at this time. I was on the FiiO E7K. I suspect some differences with FLAC and with the amp, and perhaps there will be an affect on the sound enough that the K3 will be better at additional things than the FLC8s.
