[Layman1]

"I hope so for your sake, Commander. The Emperor is not as forgiving as I am"
This popped into my head when I saw that pic, haha

 

[flinkenick]

To my ears it retains the same sound signature of the SP1000, slightly less warmer than the copper version, in particularly in the mids, smooth treble, with soundstage that is slightly smaller than his big brother, I have to say that considering the price of the SE100 vs. SP1000, it's a great deal.

The wm1z is warmer and has deeper bass, while the Hugo retains more details and treble extension.

Very curious to know what Pinky thinks about it.

I had the SE100 on loan for a while, and can confirm what @kubig123 says. It has a very recognizable house sound compared to the SP1000. It’s not as warm as the Cu or 1Z (but closer to Cu than SS), and its stage might be a bit smaller, but overall it feels more similar than different. It definitely leans towards smooth rather than bright, although I’m not sure I find it tonally ‘warm’ oddly enough, as it seems to be more of a dark-neutral (I’m making that a thing); a smooth upper treble so detail is not artificially enhanced, yet the timbre itself is not particularly warm. Hugo 2 is closer to neutral from memory, and more resolved. But as mentioned, for half of the Ultima’s price it is quite a deal. I would have to pay closer attention to sum up the differences.

Also, it is an absolute looker. Say what you want about AK, by all means, but damn can they make some fine designs. It might be the most beautiful dap I’ve seen, and it’s also significantly lighter than the SP1000 (although it also feels less sturdy). Really classy.



Audeze LCD-4Z

I also finally got to take a listen to the LCD-4Z. The 4Z has a slightly forward, dense vocal reproduction, which is highly capable of producing powerful vocals. The midrange has a pleasant amount of body, creating a full sound. In terms of signature, it felt very balanced to me. Kind of neutral, but in a linear musical way, rather than a sterile lifeless variant. It sounds neither overly warm, nor bright, but still sounds natural, and can sparkle if necessary. The bass had excellent bottom-end extension, with a resolved and impactful mid-bass. Both a technical as well as engaging bass; basically, all the qualities you've come to know and love from planar bass.

There were two (minor) downsides. The first is that while the 4Z offers a full-bodied and resolved midrange, its stage didn’t quite seem to match what was required in terms of absolute dimensions. Due to its high resolution detail is presented in a clear manner, but the ratio of note size to stage felt just a teeny bit sub-optimal. I wouldn't call it intimate, but its separation wasn't completely effortless. The second: this b*tch be heavy. Audeze claims a 15% loss in weight compared to the LCD-4, but it’s still the heaviest HP I’ve had on my head till date. I’m not one to easily complain about ergonomics, and I might be exaggerating a bit, but I got the feeling I’d definitely start to notice after an hour of listening.

vs. Utopia
Naturally, I couldn’t resist comparing it to that other $4K benchmark. Compared to the 4Z, Utopia has a leaner note structure resulting from a narrower upper midrange bump, and a slightly more pronounced lower treble peak. Accordingly, its vocal position is smaller in size, with a relatively distant stage position. Neither is bassy, but the 4Z has just the slightest bit more mid-bass. Tonally, I would say Utopia is a bit brighter, with the 4Z being closer to neutral and the Utopia neutral/bright perhaps. Even so, they are not far apart in both tone and resolution. Their absolute stage dimensions are also similar, but the Utopia offers a more effortless separation due to its leaner note structure. Altogether, the Utopia offers greater balance in its overall presentation and is more upfront in its detail retrieval, while the 4Z offers a more bodied and natural midrange, and a bit more impactful bass.

 

[EagleWings]

I had the SE100 on loan for a while, and can confirm what @kubig123 says. It has a very recognizable house sound compared to the SP1000. It’s not as warm as the Cu or 1Z (but closer to Cu than SS), and its stage might be a bit smaller, but overall it feels more similar than different. It definitely leans towards smooth rather than bright, although I’m not sure I find it tonally ‘warm’ oddly enough, as it seems to be more of a dark-neutral (I’m making that a thing); a smooth upper treble so detail is not artificially enhanced, yet the timbre itself is not particularly warm. Hugo 2 is closer to neutral from memory, and more resolved. But as mentioned, for half of the Ultima’s price it is quite a deal. I would have to pay closer attention to sum up the differences.

Also, it is an absolute looker. Say what you want about AK, by all means, but damn can they make some fine designs. It might be the most beautiful dap I’ve seen, and it’s also significantly lighter than the SP1000 (although it also feels less sturdy). Really classy.



Audeze LCD-4Z

I also finally got to take a listen to the LCD-4Z. The 4Z has a slightly forward, dense vocal reproduction, which is highly capable of producing powerful vocals. The midrange has a pleasant amount of body, creating a full sound. In terms of signature, it felt very balanced to me. Kind of neutral, but in a linear musical way, rather than a sterile lifeless variant. It sounds neither overly warm, nor bright, but still sounds natural, and can sparkle if necessary. The bass had excellent bottom-end extension, with a resolved and impactful mid-bass. Both a technical as well as engaging bass; basically, all the qualities you've come to know and love from planar bass.

There were two (minor) downsides. The first is that while the 4Z offers a full-bodied and resolved midrange, its stage didn’t quite seem to match what was required in terms of absolute dimensions. Due to its high resolution detail is presented in a clear manner, but the ratio of note size to stage felt just a teeny bit sub-optimal. I wouldn't call it intimate, but its separation wasn't completely effortless. The second: this b*tch be heavy. Audeze claims a 15% loss in weight compared to the LCD-4, but it’s still the heaviest HP I’ve had on my head till date. I’m not one to easily complain about ergonomics, and I might be exaggerating a bit, but I got the feeling I’d definitely start to notice after an hour of listening.

vs. Utopia
Naturally, I couldn’t resist comparing it to that other $4K benchmark. Compared to the 4Z, Utopia has a leaner note structure resulting from a narrower upper midrange bump, and a slightly more pronounced lower treble peak. Accordingly, its vocal position is smaller in size, with a relatively distant stage position. Neither is bassy, but the 4Z has just the slightest bit more mid-bass. Tonally, I would say Utopia is a bit brighter, with the 4Z being closer to neutral and the Utopia neutral/bright perhaps. Even so, they are not far apart in both tone and resolution. Their absolute stage dimensions are also similar, but the Utopia offers a more effortless separation due to its leaner note structure. Altogether, the Utopia offers greater balance in its overall presentation and is more upfront in its detail retrieval, while the 4Z offers a more bodied and natural midrange, and a bit more impactful bass.

When I tested the 2 headphones (on separate occasions though), Utopia stumped me with its performance. The 4Z on the other hand, didn't really enamor me as much, except for its stupendous bass. But 4Z's sound is something that would work better in the long run, as it is less aggressive and its mid-range is fuller. But my problem with the 4Z is, it's performance isn't convincing enough for me to pay the hefty price tag. One could get a LCD3F for a very good price and they wouldn't be missing much. The Utopia on the other hand, seemed to perform on a level above all dynamic and planar (except Abyss) HPs I have tried. It isn't the most natural sounding in the stock form, but it responds to EQ very well and can be corrected. I wouldn't pay retail for the Utopia either. But its one headphone I wouldn't mind spending more than $2k of my hard earned cash.

Wait till you try a ZMF Blackwood ~700g. To give you a reference 4Z weighs less than 600g.

 

[PinkyPowers]

I had the SE100 on loan for a while, and can confirm what @kubig123 says. It has a very recognizable house sound compared to the SP1000. It’s not as warm as the Cu or 1Z (but closer to Cu than SS), and its stage might be a bit smaller, but overall it feels more similar than different. It definitely leans towards smooth rather than bright, although I’m not sure I find it tonally ‘warm’ oddly enough, as it seems to be more of a dark-neutral (I’m making that a thing); a smooth upper treble so detail is not artificially enhanced, yet the timbre itself is not particularly warm. Hugo 2 is closer to neutral from memory, and more resolved. But as mentioned, for half of the Ultima’s price it is quite a deal. I would have to pay closer attention to sum up the differences.

Also, it is an absolute looker. Say what you want about AK, by all means, but damn can they make some fine designs. It might be the most beautiful dap I’ve seen, and it’s also significantly lighter than the SP1000 (although it also feels less sturdy). Really classy.

I agree with both of you. Though, of course, I can't compare to the SP1000, as I have never heard it.

It's been a while since I sold my AK120II, but the SE100 reminded me of it immediately. The Astell&Kern house sound. Yet I also felt (going from memory), the SE100 delivered superior clarity, resolution, and dynamism. It wouldn't surprise me at all if it had a bigger soudstage.

I'm not ready to make hard comparisons to my other DAPs, like the DX200 and Opus#2, but after a few days with this thing, I'm certain it belongs among those devices. Whether better or not quite as good, I don't know yet, but it is indeed on the same tier.

 

[davidmolliere]

@PinkyPowers I'd be curious to have your impressions on AMP8 and compare DX200/AMP8 to SE100

 

[PinkyPowers]

@PinkyPowers I'd be curious to have your impressions on AMP8 and compare DX200/AMP8 to SE100

I'm curious about that, too. I gave AMP8 a brief listen the first evening, but have it burning in right now. Gives me more time to spend with the AK.

 

[davidmolliere]

I'm curious about that, too. I gave AMP8 a brief listen the first evening, but have it burning in right now. Gives me more time to spend with the AK.

Great, because I really think with AMP8 the DX200 has upped the ante
SE100 is of interest to me too

 

[natemact]

I had the SE100 on loan for a while, and can confirm what @kubig123 says. It has a very recognizable house sound compared to the SP1000. It’s not as warm as the Cu or 1Z (but closer to Cu than SS), and its stage might be a bit smaller, but overall it feels more similar than different. It definitely leans towards smooth rather than bright, although I’m not sure I find it tonally ‘warm’ oddly enough, as it seems to be more of a dark-neutral (I’m making that a thing); a smooth upper treble so detail is not artificially enhanced, yet the timbre itself is not particularly warm. Hugo 2 is closer to neutral from memory, and more resolved. But as mentioned, for half of the Ultima’s price it is quite a deal. I would have to pay closer attention to sum up the differences.

Also, it is an absolute looker. Say what you want about AK, by all means, but damn can they make some fine designs. It might be the most beautiful dap I’ve seen, and it’s also significantly lighter than the SP1000 (although it also feels less sturdy). Really classy.



Audeze LCD-4Z

I also finally got to take a listen to the LCD-4Z. The 4Z has a slightly forward, dense vocal reproduction, which is highly capable of producing powerful vocals. The midrange has a pleasant amount of body, creating a full sound. In terms of signature, it felt very balanced to me. Kind of neutral, but in a linear musical way, rather than a sterile lifeless variant. It sounds neither overly warm, nor bright, but still sounds natural, and can sparkle if necessary. The bass had excellent bottom-end extension, with a resolved and impactful mid-bass. Both a technical as well as engaging bass; basically, all the qualities you've come to know and love from planar bass.

There were two (minor) downsides. The first is that while the 4Z offers a full-bodied and resolved midrange, its stage didn’t quite seem to match what was required in terms of absolute dimensions. Due to its high resolution detail is presented in a clear manner, but the ratio of note size to stage felt just a teeny bit sub-optimal. I wouldn't call it intimate, but its separation wasn't completely effortless. The second: this b*tch be heavy. Audeze claims a 15% loss in weight compared to the LCD-4, but it’s still the heaviest HP I’ve had on my head till date. I’m not one to easily complain about ergonomics, and I might be exaggerating a bit, but I got the feeling I’d definitely start to notice after an hour of listening.

vs. Utopia
Naturally, I couldn’t resist comparing it to that other $4K benchmark. Compared to the 4Z, Utopia has a leaner note structure resulting from a narrower upper midrange bump, and a slightly more pronounced lower treble peak. Accordingly, its vocal position is smaller in size, with a relatively distant stage position. Neither is bassy, but the 4Z has just the slightest bit more mid-bass. Tonally, I would say Utopia is a bit brighter, with the 4Z being closer to neutral and the Utopia neutral/bright perhaps. Even so, they are not far apart in both tone and resolution. Their absolute stage dimensions are also similar, but the Utopia offers a more effortless separation due to its leaner note structure. Altogether, the Utopia offers greater balance in its overall presentation and is more upfront in its detail retrieval, while the 4Z offers a more bodied and natural midrange, and a bit more impactful bass.

I guess I need to listen to LCD-4 again. When I heard them they had just came out and were 100 ohm. I found them to be missing a chunk of lower treble back then and wrote them off as an acquired taste for the deeply sensitive of folks.

Great, because I really think with AMP8 the DX200 has upped the ante
SE100 is of interest to me too

Holy cow! Either you move really quickly or you're just being nice

 

[fuhransahis]

I'm curious about that, too. I gave AMP8 a brief listen the first evening, but have it burning in right now. Gives me more time to spend with the AK.

My wallet really really hopes you end up preferring the DX200 vs SE100 cause I believe we have similar tastes

 

[flinkenick]

Just a little bit of IEM-porn. I've seen a complete wood inlay custom shell, full carbon fibre shell, and now this: a complete silver body custom iem, the single dynamic driver Eden. If someone wants to out-bling their girlfriend/wife, this might do the trick. Comes with matching price tag ($600+ depending on model, available for hybrids or DD's). According to Sammy it is warmer than the uni (if that is of relevance). I will be hearing Eden next week btw, but the poor man's version

 

[PinkyPowers]

My wallet really really hopes you end up preferring the DX200 vs SE100 cause I believe we have similar tastes

Sound wise, it's entirely possible. However, A&futura is EASILY my favorite DAP for build, aesthetics, GUI, etc...

 

[ctsooner22]

Just a little bit of IEM-porn. I've seen a complete wood inlay custom shell, full carbon fibre shell, and now this: a complete silver body custom iem, the single dynamic driver Eden. If someone wants to out-bling their girlfriend/wife, this might do the trick. Comes with matching price tag ($600+ depending on model, available for hybrids or DD's). According to Sammy it is warmer than the uni (if that is of relevance). I will be hearing Eden next week btw, but the poor man's version

Nic has now outdone himself. He uses the words PORN, inLAY, BODY, DRIVER, girlfriend/wife, DD's all in the same post. Oh, also the word warmer, but hey I pulled out enough. What a wordsmith.

 

[natemact]

^^ The pulled out part had me doing a double take

 

[NaiveSound]

^^ The pulled out part had me doing a double take

Haha. Same!

 

[natemact]

Haha. Same!

See now while we might not agree on burn-in, crude jokes are where we come together!

EDIT - I see what I may have done here lol