Is what I hear what I like?

[Abouna]

After all this this time I would have thought I could formulate an opinion where headphones are concerned. I'm having a terrible time making a basic and relatively low dollar decision.

I bought a pair of JBL Reference 220s to replace some Senn CX 300s that went bad. I now have a brand new pair of the JBLs & a brand new pair (unopened in the box, which by the way is new packaging and the phones look redesigned) that Sennheiser sent.

I'm having a bear of a time reconciling the JBLs. I want badly to like these, they are nicely made and have a huge plus in that the cord is heads & shoulders above the Senns. Since I didn't want to open the new Senns (in case I sell them) I am using a well burned pair of Creative ep630s which have pretty much identical signature to the old Senns as my reference.

My problem is this, I'm afraid I've become a basshead of sorts. I've always shied away from such and leaned towards treble and a bright sound but these JBLs are extremely bright, they are more detailed to be sure but not well rounded at all. The ep630s on the other hand are notably boomy but I think I may be leaning towards that instead of the piercing brightness of the JBLs.

My problem is that I can't tell which I really prefer. Do I just think I prefer the 630s because that's what I'm used to and do I prefer a warmer dare I say muddier sound that I thought I did?

If I had my way I'd mix the two, the brightness of the JBLs with the warmth & touch of muddiness of the Creative/Senns.

I've got about 30 hours on the JBLs but all reports point to the bass mellowing with burn-in, not increasing.

Of course I could just compare them to my MS-1s but then I'd be tempted to toss them both out.

 

[kramer5150]

Thats part of the journey... finding a sound you like within your budget or physical limitations. For me its about bass impact/clarity, detailed mids and gently rolled off highs.

Sub-bass extension would be nice, but given my musical preferences its not a must have. So, a PPA bass-boosted RS1 is my preference. Its about as close to perfect as I can afford right now. If I had the funds, a PPX slam would replace the PPA in a heartbeat.

Its about finding as close to perfection as you can afford, given your physical constraints/requirements.

 

[souperman]

don't TRY to like a pair of headphones. let it come to you and sell it if the sound just doesn't appeal

 

[Slaughter]

Quote:

Originally Posted by kramer5150 /img/forum/go_quote.gif If I had the funds, a PPX slam would replace the PPA in a heartbeat.

Kramer, dont sell out....DIY for life! You are one of the few active head-fiers I see using DIY instead of commercial, overpriced amps. Can I get a CMOY smilie?

 

[kramer5150]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slaughter /img/forum/go_quote.gif Kramer, dont sell out....DIY for life! You are one of the few active head-fiers I see using DIY instead of commercial, overpriced amps. Can I get a CMOY smilie?

Yeah... it won't be any time soon my friend. The PPA is a VERY good amp IMHO, that really doesn't get a lot of attention because it lacks the "Bling" factor of a commercial amp.

I'll get a Steps at some point.