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Originally Posted by Orcin /img/forum/go_quote.gif
P.S. Where's the rest of the impressions and pics??? Come on, people.
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For a total newbie the meet was like taking a drink from a fire hose. No amount of reading about equipment can take the place of actually hearing it. Now I understand the compulsion.
Shelly's HD800s were the highpoint for me. I loved their spaciousness and detail. The sound stage was a little bit forward of my head rather than between my ears. I also loved their feel. My head is a little bigger than average so they sat perfectly, with absolutely nothing in contact with my outer ears - just incredibly comfortable.
I tried an electrostatic in the DIY area (Stax?, not really sure) and was very taken with them. They sound really different, extremely crisp, which I liked for the short time I used them. I just don't know whether I'd find them delightful or fatiguing for a long listening session.
The JH-13s didn't impress me, but I think that's just my ignorance. Since I've only used closed cans (AKG K 271-S) I was so taken by my first exposure to the spaciousness of really high end open phones that even the best IEMs couldn't grab my attention.
Of the phones I could actually afford / justify, I liked Ken's HD600s the most, though it was a close call between them and the AKG K 701 - high end detail versus better bass and a bit more warmth. I'd like to own both for different types of music, but if I had to choose it would be the Sennheisers. Maybe I'm just ready for a change from the AKG sound. I was surprised that the HD650s didn't sound anything like the 600s and weren't as appealing to me.
Now I have to learn about tube amps and custom cables, because I'm sure poorly amped stock 600s don't sound anything like Ken's beauties. So many options, so little time and money.
The meet was a no brainer for me since it was 4 miles from my house. Now that I understand what goes on, I would drive a good distance to attend another. Even in a major metropolitan area there is no other way to hear so much high end gear all at once.
Many thanks to Orcin and all the Head-Fi'ers who graciously shared their rigs and knowledge.