Appreciate the thoughts and does make sense ! When I listened to V2, I thought it was a side grade of V1 and not an upgrade, V2 was less warmer with less mid treble spike and had a faster decay. So I tried to stick with V1 but I have not heard of HE1000 SE though and I don't think it is easy to audition considering the situation in the world. You are right that I unfortunately have to blind buy SE if I have to go for it
The Audiophile community is tossed between two popular sentiments with HE1000 SE.
Popular opinion #1) SE is marginal / may be 15% upgrade over the previous versions so not worth to upgrade
Popular opinion #2) SE is faster than even V2 and great for EDM, better dynamics than even V2, better sub bass than even V1, better bass layering, great sound stage than both V1/V2, much more extended treble than even V2, noticeable better details than both so worth to upgrade it
So I have been reading these two popular opinions in the reviews from the hobbyists and confused now where to lean towards
Any other HE1000 SE & previous version owners who can give some more perspective here please ?