Guide comparing all current ZMF models (HD 6XX added for reference)

[227qed]

No idea - I don't use digital EQ so I don't really know how headphones react to it. I have a Schiit Lokius but with some headphone you can crank the bass all you want and it's not changing anything.

Great feedback! I definitely know what you mean. I use a Loki and crank up the 20 hz knob for certain genres of music and gaming, and am always most interested in which headphones offer the most “bass potential” for doing this as opposed to what they’re like with their stock tuning.

In the context of this thread, it’s more like if you crank up that 20 hz to the max for all the zmfs, which is most capable of delivering the best bass experience (slam, rumble, “subwoofer on head”, etc., while still offering top quality without distortion). Atrium closed? Caldera closed? Bokeh closed? I’ve more or less been able to rule out the verite closed anecdotally, but it’s tough to decipher where all the other zmfs fall in this “basshead potential” category.

So far the atrium closed seems to be the go to zmf recommendation for bassheads, but I’m really curious if the caldera closed in particular can surpass it with an equal boost via Loki. I used the Fostex variants for several years, switched to planars for a while, and am now back on a dynamic (kennerton gh50). Looking hard at the ZMFs as a next “upgrade” but I’m having a really really tough time on deciding between AC and CC, though I’m sure both would be outstanding.

 

[FlipFlopsQ]

This is excellent feedback. I am now in a "pickle" as I can't decide to get the Bokeh or the Focal Clear. Getting both is not an option. I am mainly looking for something with good bass and soundstage.

 

[wolfhill138]

Thar’s interesting. With all my headphones, the Lokius’ two bass dials make an audible change. Which headphones have you found unresponsive?

I mean Lokius adjustments are always audible, but like on a 6XX for example, cranking the bass dials isn't going to get you any big thumps.