Nov 5, 2024 at 9:11 PM Post #166 of 345
I have both. It's a sidegrade for sure. I prefer the original HEDD 2 for most things but the HEDD 2 GT is smoother and easier on the ears. It's lighter and more comfortable. I like to switch between them.
They are both very different for sure. The GT suits my sound preference, but there are some instances where I like the 2. BTW, both weigh the same. I also thought the GT was lighter when I wore them, but after putting them on the scale, I realized they are pretty much the exact same.
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 4:25 AM Post #167 of 345
Got a rental Heddphone 2 GT from local hi-fi shop for extended listening test 😎

One long evening in and I must say they are even more impressive than I thought.

There is this kind of effortless and non-aggressive characteristic to overall sound. It feels like everything happens outside head and I don’t feel sounds being „pushed” into my ears. It can feel slightly odd at first or make someone crank the volume up, but after few minutes it gets so natural and comfortable it’s hard to put these cans down.

As for separation it sometimes reminds me of well-tuned multi-driver totl IEMs - every sound is reproduced so distinctly that it’s hard to believe it’s just one big driver!

Also I have yet to find music that strictly doesn’t play along with H2GT - jazz, psy trance, metal, rock, orchestral… you name it.

This effortlessness and perfect transient response works everytime 😊
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 12:01 PM Post #168 of 345
Got a rental Heddphone 2 GT from local hi-fi shop for extended listening test 😎

One long evening in and I must say they are even more impressive than I thought.

There is this kind of effortless and non-aggressive characteristic to overall sound. It feels like everything happens outside head and I don’t feel sounds being „pushed” into my ears. It can feel slightly odd at first or make someone crank the volume up, but after few minutes it gets so natural and comfortable it’s hard to put these cans down.

As for separation it sometimes reminds me of well-tuned multi-driver totl IEMs - every sound is reproduced so distinctly that it’s hard to believe it’s just one big driver!

Also I have yet to find music that strictly doesn’t play along with H2GT - jazz, psy trance, metal, rock, orchestral… you name it.

This effortlessness and perfect transient response works everytime 😊

If you have heard the original TWO, how do you think the GT compares, aside from the warmer tuning? Is there any change in detail retrieval or timbre properties?
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 12:18 PM Post #169 of 345
If you have heard the original TWO, how do you think the GT compares, aside from the warmer tuning? Is there any change in detail retrieval or timbre properties?
Sorry, haven't heard the OG TWO. However knowing and appreciating HD600 for its timbre I'd say it's pretty close, maybe not so "magical" or warm, but very realistic and life-like. There is no weirdness in the frequency response:grinning:
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 2:10 PM Post #170 of 345
IMG_6393.JPEG


My temporary setup with Hugo 2:

I like what I’m hearing (and seeing—those gorgeous, glowing colours on the Hugo 2 are a sight to behold).

I'm celebrating the arrival of my Hugo 2 with some exciting new pairings, and the HEDDphone Two GT is one of the standout additions. The GT sounds fun and engaging on the Hugo 2, offering a unique alternative to the sound presentations of both planars and dynamic drivers. While the Hugo 2 might not extract every last drop of performance from the HEDDphones, it still delivers enough power to achieve enjoyable listening levels with solid resolution, dynamics, physicality, and punch.

Side note: I’ve been falling in love with everything I plug into the Hugo 2—be it the HEDDphone Two GT, IE 900, Campfire Supermoon, or other IEMs and headphones in my collection. The same holds true for my WA8 though. It's almost magical how great these amps make different headphones and IEMs sound. Here though it’s a testament not only to these amps but also to the GT's versatility.

Now, why didn’t anyone warn me that Chord DAC/amps sound this good? Oh wait, they did—countless times. But if I’d truly grasped just how stellar they are compared to everything else, I’d have skipped meals until I could afford a TT2 or Dave instead of amassing my current collection (lol). I guess figuring out preferences in this hobby is part of the fun, and it took me a mere three years to reach this point.

Another note/question for those more experienced with the Hugo 2:
  • On my Mac, the MIDI app consistently shows a 32-Bit output from the Hugo 2, regardless of the music being played—I recall it was 24-Bit on Gryphon. The sample rate changes based on the Qobuz track, but the bit depth stays at 32-Bit. When I switch over to Spotify, the sample rate doesn’t change and remains at the last Qobuz setting. On Windows, the sample rate shifts dynamically with each app, though I can’t verify bit depth there. So, does the Hugo 2 output at 32-Bit by default? Is there a driver I should be using for Mac (I assume not)? I know Windows requires one, but I’m unable to install it at the moment. I realize this probably doesn’t affect what I’m hearing, but curiosity has got the better of me. Any insights or experiences you can share?
  • Have any of you tried using Hugo 2’s 3.5mm output as a line out to other (portable) amps such as the C9 or WA8? I activated the line out mode and connected it to my C9, but the result was unexpectedly poor—it sounded distorted, and I could still adjust the volume on the Hugo 2. I was under the impression that enabling line out would output a constant ~3V signal at full line level. Does this mean I need to use the RCA outputs for a proper line out connection?
 
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Nov 7, 2024 at 2:23 PM Post #171 of 345
IMG_6393.JPEG

My temporary setup with Hugo 2:

I like what I’m hearing (and seeing—those gorgeous, glowing colours on the Hugo 2 are a sight to behold).

I'm celebrating the arrival of my Hugo 2 with some exciting new pairings, and the HEDDphone Two GT is one of the standout additions. The GT sounds fun and engaging on the Hugo 2, offering a unique alternative to the sound presentations of both planars and dynamic drivers. While the Hugo 2 might not extract every last drop of performance from the HEDDphones, it still delivers enough power to achieve enjoyable listening levels with solid resolution, dynamics, physicality, and punch.

Side note: I’ve been falling in love with everything I plug into the Hugo 2—be it the HEDDphone Two GT, IE 900, Campfire Supermoon, or other IEMs and headphones in my collection. The same holds true for my WA8 though. It's almost magical how great these amps make different headphones and IEMs sound. Here though it’s a testament not only to these amps but also to the GT's versatility.

Now, why didn’t anyone warn me that Chord DAC/amps sound this good? Oh wait, they did—countless times. But if I’d truly grasped just how stellar they are compared to everything else, I’d have skipped meals until I could afford a TT2 or Dave instead of amassing my current collection (lol). I guess figuring out preferences in this hobby is part of the fun, and it took me a mere three years to reach this point.

Another note/question for those more experienced with the Hugo 2:
  • On my Mac, the MIDI app consistently shows a 32-Bit output from the Hugo 2, regardless of the music being played—I recall it was 24-Bit on Gryphon. The sample rate changes based on the Qobuz track, but the bit depth stays at 32-Bit. When I switch over to Spotify, the sample rate doesn’t change and remains at the last Qobuz setting. On Windows, the sample rate shifts dynamically with each app, though I can’t verify bit depth there.
  • So, does the Hugo 2 output at 32-Bit by default? Is there a driver I should be using for Mac (I assume not)? I know Windows requires one, but I’m unable to install it at the moment. I realize this probably doesn’t affect what I’m hearing, but curiosity has got the better of me. Any insights or experiences you can share?
  • Have any of you tried using Hugo 2’s 3.5mm output as a line out to other (portable) amps such asthe C9 or WA8? I activated the line out mode and connected it to my C9, but the result was unexpectedly poor—it sounded distorted, and I could still adjust the volume on the Hugo 2. I was under the impression that enabling line out would output a constant ~3V signal at full line level. Does this mean I need to use the RCA outputs for a proper line out connection?
I like your cable. Is that custom?
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 2:51 PM Post #172 of 345
Does anyone here use a Hedd TWO or Hedd TWO GT with a tube amp? If so, which one, and how is the pairing?

I have tube amp that does about 2W per channel headphone output: should be enough for the Hedd TWO/GT (if and when I get one).
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 3:03 PM Post #173 of 345
Does anyone here use a Hedd TWO or Hedd TWO GT with a tube amp? If so, which one, and how is the pairing?

I have tube amp that does about 2W per channel headphone output: should be enough for the Hedd TWO/GT (if and when I get one).
I'm using the Heddphone Two GT with the Cayin HA-300B MKII. Unfortunately on Sunday I had to switch out a year old pair of NOS 6SN7s that went noisy on me. Not a huge deal as I have backups. So the newly replaced 6SN7s are still burning in and I've been listening but not critically. It will be at least another week or two before I can really be honest and fair with my assessment of the Two GT. Also my other amp the ALO Studio Six which is rated at 1.2W struggles with the Two GT. The bass is way too loose and it really isn't up for the job with this headphone.

I will say that I definitely like these headphones and I think they have a great way of presenting the music. I'm definitely happy with them and will probably love them when my amp and tubes all come together. I'm optimistic. More to come later.
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 3:08 PM Post #174 of 345
Sorry, haven't heard the OG TWO. However knowing and appreciating HD600 for its timbre I'd say it's pretty close, maybe not so "magical" or warm, but very realistic and life-like. There is no weirdness in the frequency response:grinning:
May I ask how do you find it in comparison to the HD600 in the sense of the ear gain bump and general possibile fatigue?

Do you feel it equal in that sense, more relaxed or more forward?

Thanks in advance! :)
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 3:08 PM Post #175 of 345
I like your cable. Is that custom?
Hart Audio Custom Thick Braided. My daily in-use cables, completely satisfied with them. Not only beautiful but also very ergonomic and super easy to use, given the fact that they are terminated in 4-pin XLR and can be ordered with a kit of adapters to practically any termination.

I cannot hear difference though, don't expect anything, and haven't tested or A/B'ed either.
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 3:26 PM Post #176 of 345
Does anyone here use a Hedd TWO or Hedd TWO GT with a tube amp? If so, which one, and how is the pairing?

I have tube amp that does about 2W per channel headphone output: should be enough for the Hedd TWO/GT (if and when I get one).
Same as RobertSM, I have used them on HA-300MKII with 2W per channel at Low impedance setting (target 32Ω: 8Ω~64Ω). They sound better and less stressed on 2.4W output per channel at its Medium impedance setting (target 64Ω: 65Ω~250Ω), but your 2W per channel output should be enough to drive them properly with sufficient headroom, IMO (indeed also depending on the input/source as well). But they sound nice on tubes. As I mentioned in a comment earlier, a humble Woo Audio WA8 with 350mW output @32Ω drives them beautifully. I think they care more about the signal's and amplification's quality rather than power only.
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 3:32 PM Post #177 of 345
Does anyone here use a Hedd TWO or Hedd TWO GT with a tube amp? If so, which one, and how is the pairing?

I have tube amp that does about 2W per channel headphone output: should be enough for the Hedd TWO/GT (if and when I get one).
Yes, I am listening with solid state JDS Element III (1.3W@32Ohm) and hybrid tube amp Project Ember (1.4W@32Ohm) and it's more than enough. I have a lot of headroom with both of them. Be mindful that in tube amps final gain depends a lot on tubes, so you might want/need to use high gain tubes.
May I ask how do you find it in comparison to the HD600 in the sense of the ear gain bump and general possibile fatigue?

Do you feel it equal in that sense, more relaxed or more forward?

Thanks in advance! :)
I feel they are more or less comparable. H2GT feels less mellow than HD600 because of very precise transients, but tonally there is nothing fatiguing about them. They might be harsh, but only when you crank up the volume knob too far...
 
Nov 7, 2024 at 3:36 PM Post #178 of 345
Same as RobertSM, I have used them on HA-300MKII with 2W per channel at Low impedance setting (target 32Ω: 8Ω~64Ω). They sound better and less stressed on 2.4W output per channel at its Medium impedance setting (target 64Ω: 65Ω~250Ω), but your 2W per channel output should be enough to drive them properly with sufficient headroom, IMO (indeed also depending on the input/source as well). But they sound nice on tubes. As I mentioned in a comment earlier, a humble Woo Audio WA8 with 350mW output @32Ω drives them beautifully. I think they care more about the signal's and amplification's quality rather than power only.
Agreed I think it's wise to view everything as a whole. Source gear definitely matters! The Two GT is definitely resolving enough to show you what's upstream. That's for sure.

The WA8 is an outstanding dac/amp. I owned one and probably misstepped with selling it during the spring of 2020. It was the first few months of the pandemic and I figured I wasn't going to need a transportable amp/dac. I did love it though. Maybe I'll pick another one back up down the road.
 
Nov 8, 2024 at 12:24 AM Post #179 of 345
Does anyone here use a Hedd TWO or Hedd TWO GT with a tube amp? If so, which one, and how is the pairing?

I have tube amp that does about 2W per channel headphone output: should be enough for the Hedd TWO/GT (if and when I get one).
The ZMF Aegis amp pairs extremely well with the HEDD2 GT to my ears. In fact, in my system at least, I think it might have better synergy with the Aegis than ZMF's own Atrium open. I'm assuming it's because the H2GT is harder to drive which keeps the noise floor from my mains power inaudible at listening volumes. Whereas I can't seem to get rid of the noise with my Atrium open (doesn't prevent me from enjoying them, just a minor annoyance at times).

Using the H2GT from the XLR ("pseudo balanced") output at either medium (28 ohms) or high (85 ohms) impedance setting. Low impedance pushes the Aegis too hard, both visibly on the VU meters and audibly from the distortion + clipping.

Overall, I prefer the tonality of vacuum tubes over solid state and that holds true with the HEDD2 GT too. They sound more life-like and spacious to me while smoothing out any harshness. Richer, never nasally, and always less fatiguing. It could simply be the longer note decay that causes all the differences I hear, but, I do believe in tube harmonics, personally.
 
Nov 8, 2024 at 7:44 AM Post #180 of 345
...
  • On my Mac, the MIDI app consistently shows a 32-Bit output from the Hugo 2, regardless of the music being played—I recall it was 24-Bit on Gryphon. The sample rate changes based on the Qobuz track, but the bit depth stays at 32-Bit. When I switch over to Spotify, the sample rate doesn’t change and remains at the last Qobuz setting. On Windows, the sample rate shifts dynamically with each app, though I can’t verify bit depth there. So, does the Hugo 2 output at 32-Bit by default? Is there a driver I should be using for Mac (I assume not)? I know Windows requires one, but I’m unable to install it at the moment. I realize this probably doesn’t affect what I’m hearing, but curiosity has got the better of me. Any insights or experiences you can share?
  • Have any of you tried using Hugo 2’s 3.5mm output as a line out to other (portable) amps such as the C9 or WA8? I activated the line out mode and connected it to my C9, but the result was unexpectedly poor—it sounded distorted, and I could still adjust the volume on the Hugo 2. I was under the impression that enabling line out would output a constant ~3V signal at full line level. Does this mean I need to use the RCA outputs for a proper line out connection?
  • I think the Hugo 2 is creating a container with 32 Bit because the volume adjustment is digital. If you lower the volume, the noise-free information has "space to move down" (sorry for using extremely untechnical words). Otherwise you'd be reducing the dynamic range, e.g. lowering the loudest tone and compressing it within the 24 Bit container. So all good, you want 32 Bit - even with 16 Bit files!
  • In my setup below I am using Hugo 2 as a DAC and pre-amp (hold down input and crossfeed while powering on). However, I am using the RCA output to feed a Lake People amp. But it should also work from the 3.5mm out, I guess. I am assuming you are asking because you only happen to have such a cable at hand? Otherwise you might as well use the RCA.
PB081215.jpg


I'm joining in on the GT fun. Disclaimer: I used to work at HEDD. But I am stoked to finally see the GT in the wild! Personally, I found the original HP2 to sound very sophisticated, relaxed and almost muted. The HP2 is a headphone HEDDphone that does not show its strengths right away. It was designed for prolonged use, very much not in-your-face and IMHO the tuning masked the technical qualities unless you are an attentive listener. It's much more nuanced than the HP1. As a flagship follow-up of the HP1, I think HP2 did not sit too well with many headphone enthusiasts, but professionals appreciated the changes.

Although I have not contributed to it, I am extremely proud of GT's retuning of the upper mids and transition into the treble. Despite the slightly warm tuning (let's not exaggerate, we are talking 3dB at 100Hz), GT's AMT sounds fast, snappy, has bite, energy and focus. If the GT had been released last year (alongside or instead of the HP2), I am sure the hype would be insane right now - also considering the removed crinkling sound, better pads, better cables. With the GT released, I don't think there will be many users left saying they prefer HP1.

Looks to me like HEDD has now adjusted their aim. Now they need more of a design approach, IMO. This sound with the looks of YH-5000SE would be perfect!
 
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