[Buddhahacker]

For those interested in purchasing new  Koss ESP-950's, Amazon is selling new for $699.  A pretty amazing price. I just checked and they have 6 left.
 
 
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000056ULH/ref=s9_bbs_gw_d4_g23_i2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-7&pf_rd_r=0T0G1XZ33BFQKS4GE31C&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1741301142&pf_rd_i=507846

 

[AnalogSavior]

I'm currently debating whether or not to grab some of the 950s and give electrostats a try, or stick to dynamics and grab some HD800s (or equivalent).  The upward potential these have with a simple amp upgrade makes it very tempting, especially considering DIY projects like the KGSSHV.  The lifetime warranty helps too.

 

[ssrock64]

  I'm currently debating whether or not to grab some of the 950s and give electrostats a try, or stick to dynamics and grab some HD800s (or equivalent).  The upward potential these have with a simple amp upgrade makes it very tempting, especially considering DIY projects like the KGSSHV.  The lifetime warranty helps too.

I doubt you'll find the same absolute resolution or accuracy of modern TOTL offerings with an ESP950, but it still has an effortless blend of electrostatic finesse and sonic involvement that's hard to match, especially in the $1K or less price range.

 

[AnalogSavior]

 
I doubt you'll find the same absolute resolution or accuracy of modern TOTL offerings with an ESP950, but it still has an effortless blend of electrostatic finesse and sonic involvement that's hard to match, especially in the $1K or less price range.

 
That's the feel I've been getting from what I've read, but I've also yet to see someone say it lacks resolution.
 
A noob question for those using amps other than the E90.  How does the voltage bias difference affect the sound?  Since the Stax pro bias is 580V and the Koss 950 is 600V, what are the drawbacks from a technical standpoint?
 
I realize a Stax amp upgrade (say the 323S) would result in a better sound, but I still like to know the tech behind things.
 
Of course then I still have to consider the option of going with Stax bundle like the SRS2170...I realize this isn't a Stax thread, but anyone have experience with both?

 

[DaemonSire]

What is the typical "new" price for a the ESP-950?  Looking on Amazon, it is approx. $1000.  That is quite a bit.
 
I see these going in the For Sale area, but I looked into the warranty and it doesn't seem to be transferable.  With the quality issues these seem to have, the Lifetime Warranty is a big selling point.  Is that why they go for so cheap there (-50%)?

 

[s1rrah]

The warranty is not an issue. You just send the cans and amp with a note describing the problem and Koss will service them. You do not even need to send any sort of proof of purchase. This is easily confirmed by lots of folk other than myself...

I wouldnt worry about the warranty thing ...

Cheers...

 

[ssrock64]

Typically, I've seen Amazon get as low as $750 or $800 every couple months or so. I know that yesterday, as mentioned in the thread, they were at $699.

 

[Binge]

Koss direct sends out 25% coupons if you sign up for their newsletter.  I get one about once every 2-3 months.

 

[ssrock64]

  Koss direct sends out 25% coupons if you sign up for their newsletter.  I get one about once every 2-3 months.

Do those apply to non-factory retailers like Amazon? A $750 deal is still higher than the current price online, though it could come in handy later.

 

[Mr.Sneis]

 
Do those apply to non-factory retailers like Amazon? A $750 deal is still higher than the current price online, though it could come in handy later.

It's for Koss' store only.  Why would Koss give out Amazon coupons?

 

[ssrock64]

  It's for Koss' store only.  Why would Koss give out Amazon coupons?

I assumed as much, but you can always hope for a manufacturer/retail partner deal.

 

[Binge]

 
Do those apply to non-factory retailers like Amazon? A $750 deal is still higher than the current price online, though it could come in handy later.

afaik they do not count for amazon
 
There are times when $750 is the lowest cost available.  The Koss coupons are a reliable bet.

 

[jonbmet]

I just bought a ESP-950 with amp, accessories, and recently serviced for $300. I think I did pretty well considering they have a lifetime warranty.
 
Does anyone know if other Koss headphones fall under the same warranty? I have a pair Koss pro 4aaa that need new ear pads.

 

[ssrock64]

  I just bought a ESP-950 with amp, accessories, and recently serviced for $300. I think I did pretty well considering they have a lifetime warranty.

I see you're located in Georgia; did you buy them from a seller in Mississippi by any chance? A few months ago there was an ad on Mobile Craigslist for an ESP950/E90 at around the same price, and I regret not jumping on it for a backup pair now.

 

[jonbmet]

Actually these are coming from New Hampshire. I bid on them on audiogon, but the auction never reached the reserve price and then a few days after the auction closed I got an email asking if I'd like to buy them for my highest bid. I just bought a full mod set of magnum v4's and really didn't want to spend anymore money on headphones this month, but I couldn't pass up such a deal.
 
I did catch a little hell from the girlfriend...