Investing USD 700.- on the Sonorous VI that sounds (much) better than a bunch of so-called USD 1000-3000.- TOTL headphones could be a good thing . Switching pads is no big deal, but I fully understand your approach and philosophy.
just wanted to add my 2 cents. I purchased Dakoni Leather Earpads for the Fostex TH900 because i read about the positive effect in terms of comfort and sound quality. I can tell you these ear pads were easy to install, fit perfectly, are more comfortable than the stock pads, but most of all, I love the change to the sound. I did not like the Sonorous VI in stock form. I felt the midrange was missing somewhat. The sound was bass, upper mids and treble - a "V" shaped signature. I like a balanced frequency response. The TH900 pads were perfect to balance the sound signature. I did not get the fenestrated version - might sound good, but I went with the solid leather because that's what I saw others reference. All I can say is that the change to the sound signature was not subtle. It was very significant to my ears, Not sure I would say the treble is 'tamed' because it remains crisp, clear, and present, but it doesn't stick out to me quite as much.I never dared replace the pads. I did think about it of course after long listening sessions when I thought my ears would start bleedingbut Final only offered the pads from the IV and made it clear it would alter thr VI’s signature. Improving comfort would be so great! I take your suggestion very seriously. Do any of those pads tame the slightly bright treble? Also, do you mention them because they are the only ones that fit, or because they sound the best?
The stock cable actually retails for $200+ and is the same as with their TOTL IEMs, but.. yes it’s too stiff and microphonic for everyday use.
The E5000 cable is definitely stiff, and annoyingly so. However, I've found that wearing them over the ear basically eliminates microphonics.
Hi...BT = Bluetooth.
