[DrManhattan]

I'm new to the audiophile world and looking to get my first hifi setup. I want to have headphones, dac, and a tube amp under $500. I would like to try to keep it closer to $400.
I will use this mainly for music but i also game frequently. I listen to indie rock, classic rock, and some dub step here and there.
I've been looking at the Philips Fidelio X1, Little Dot Mk III, and JDSLabs Odac. What are your suggestions?

 

[DrManhattan]

Bump

 

[RebelRising]

Lucky for you, the HE-400 just got bumped down to $300 for most retailers. Combine that with one of its most popular pairings, the Schiit Magni+Modi, and you have a more than capable system that fits your budget to the dot.

 

[Byrnie]

I would suggest the Schiit Modi as a DAC instead of the ODAC.  The X1 is a great headphone!

 

[DrManhattan]

Thanks. I was looking the modi as well. Has anyone used the little dot mk iii with the x1? I would like to know how they sound together.

 

[gradofan1]

+1 for Schiit Vali/Magni & Modi stack and either a HE400 (new, $300) or a HD600/650 (used).

 

[DrManhattan]

I think I'll go with the modi magni stack then. So now Im stuck between the he400, he600, and hd650. I've heard that senns are pretty neutral, but I don't know much about the he400 other than they are planar. Which would be better for my music preference? I like indie and classic rock and also electronic.

 

[gradofan1]

I think I'll go with the modi magni stack then. So now Im stuck between the he400, he600, and hd650. I've heard that senns are pretty neutral, but I don't know much about the he400 other than they are planar. Which would be better for my music preference? I like indie and classic rock and also electronic.

For your music I'd pick the Senn HD600/650. Just make sure you upgrade the stock cable to a Cardas or something. The darker HD650 is probably better for your music, then again it depends on what amp you use. The HE-400 is probably a tad brighter than you want for your music.

 

[DrManhattan]

Alright I'll go with the hd650 and the modi/magni. Thanks guys

 

[Byrnie]

Alright I'll go with the hd650 and the modi/magni. Thanks guys

Good luck to you and please post your impressions.