TeknicalXtacy
100+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Jul 31, 2013
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I am seeking some guidance from you fine audiophile folks. I have been researching for a good bit (an understatement), including reading threads here, the purchase of some new IEM’s. I currently own some fairly modest samples that include: Sennheiser Momentum, Westone UM2, and Etymotic HF5. I use a Fiios X3 II to “power” them. I am looking to take a step up.
Of the three, I like the Ety’s the best. The UM2’s are nice, full sounding, but not overly defined and seem like they have a good bit of bass. The Momentums quite frankly are quite muddy but I use them when surfing the web on my laptop.
What I am looking for is an open/clear, lush sounding IEM, that is not bass heavy, with good soundstage. I don’t mind some bass, just don’t want it to dominate other parts of the sound signature. I am very intrigued by the Sennheiser IE800, but reviews are a mixed bag. Most issues, like the cords, really are probably not an issue, but longevity is a concern given that they are the type of IEM’s one would keep for a very long time. Also looked at some others, many in fact. Most recently came across the AF180’s which get high marks. Also, looked at the EX1000’s. But there are so many choices.
Would like to keep my budget at $500, but will go higher if I am getting a life time product. My goal is to get something “special” that is top quality. IE800 is pretty much the top of the budget. CIEM’s are out for me – FYI. Also, the reviews of Shure’s leads me to believe they are not the sound I am looking for – a bit to “dry” based on my desires and what I am reading. Neutral is not my main goal here. lush and fun is, but not too exaggerated.
Also, if a purchase on Amazon states “fullfilled by Amazon” are those products covered by warranty?
So there you go. Input would be greatly appreciated as I do not think there are any places I can go try any out locally.
Thank you in advance,
john
Of the three, I like the Ety’s the best. The UM2’s are nice, full sounding, but not overly defined and seem like they have a good bit of bass. The Momentums quite frankly are quite muddy but I use them when surfing the web on my laptop.
What I am looking for is an open/clear, lush sounding IEM, that is not bass heavy, with good soundstage. I don’t mind some bass, just don’t want it to dominate other parts of the sound signature. I am very intrigued by the Sennheiser IE800, but reviews are a mixed bag. Most issues, like the cords, really are probably not an issue, but longevity is a concern given that they are the type of IEM’s one would keep for a very long time. Also looked at some others, many in fact. Most recently came across the AF180’s which get high marks. Also, looked at the EX1000’s. But there are so many choices.
Would like to keep my budget at $500, but will go higher if I am getting a life time product. My goal is to get something “special” that is top quality. IE800 is pretty much the top of the budget. CIEM’s are out for me – FYI. Also, the reviews of Shure’s leads me to believe they are not the sound I am looking for – a bit to “dry” based on my desires and what I am reading. Neutral is not my main goal here. lush and fun is, but not too exaggerated.
Also, if a purchase on Amazon states “fullfilled by Amazon” are those products covered by warranty?
So there you go. Input would be greatly appreciated as I do not think there are any places I can go try any out locally.
Thank you in advance,
john
