Brilliant stuff. I'm quite new to the HD-650s and they have totally surprised me by how excellent they are.
Since a Zana audition would be difficult or impossible do you think you would be able to describe the sound of the Zana with the 650s compared to the BH-Crack - I'm sure its technically a step-up in many ways , but would you describe it as warmer or brighter than the Crack ? or just totally different ? Any comparisons would be great.
Thank you!
Jeb.
I own both of these OTLs as well and based on my experience, here are the pros and cons of the sound of each when paired with the HD650.
Zana Deux (w/Sophia 6SL7 driver tube)
Pros:
- Very euphonic
- Really opens up the HD650 to where the last word you'd describe it as is 'veiled'
- Large soundstage with excellent depth
- Due to bullets 2 and 3, it gives the headphones a sense of grandness.
- Vocals are given a sense of spine tingling realism
Cons:
- Lacks impact in comparison to the BHC
- Micro detail is always present but is occasionally too soft or blends in to the rest of the music so that it's hard to hear
- Less forgiving (may or may not be a con)
- While vocals are great, they have the tendency to be very forward. This can cause a slight bit of 'shouty-ness' for lack of a better word
Crack w/speedball (Stock tubes)
Pros:
- Great impact and PRAT (pace, rhythm, and timing)
- Extremely forgiving, aka nothing sounds bad
- Zero listening fatigue
Cons:
- Less realistic sounding when compared to the ZD
- Smaller soundstage and 3 Dimensionality when compared to the ZD
- Good, but not as good as the ZD for selections that require a more delicate presentation (classical, jazz, acoustic, female vocals, etc.)
To sum it up, I enjoy both of these extraordinary amps with the HD650. The presentation is pretty different, but each has their own strengths and weaknesses. Do I think the ZD is a step up in terms of technicalities? Yes, without a doubt. Do I think the ZD is a step up in terms of enjoyment? Well, that really depends on the mood I am in at the time of listening. Hope this helps.