risenfallen
100+ Head-Fier
Hi all,
I'm relatively new to IEMs and looking for a pair for portable use (preferably one that can sound great straight out of the Ipod 5.5 Gen). I currently own a pair of Spider TinyEar and for the retail price they sound great but I want to explore what is out there if I go further up the scale with IEMs
I listen to all genres with an emphasis on Rock/Metal and singer/songwriter stuff. I'd like to stay within the $100-130 price range (the lesser the better without sacrificing too much in SQ) and I'm not against buying used. I'm in favor of a clear/crisp presentation with great details and attack but also love good bass (something more or less in the vent of AKG K701, perhaps without the big soundstage). In order of preference:
1. Clarity/Details
2. Comfort and isolation (I have quite small ear canals and the small single flange tips on the TinyEar fit just right)
2. Attack
3. Sweet mids (at least not too recessed)
4. Bass
I've done some research and come down to the two candidates: HF5 and XBA-3 which happen to be more or less in my price range. According to what I've read, they are quite different animals, one being accurate, detailed but somewhat cold sounding vs one with rather warm, bassy signature.
My question is that for my list of preferences above, which one would be a better choice. I'm also happy to know if there's any other good options in this price range.
Thanks so much in advance!!!
I'm relatively new to IEMs and looking for a pair for portable use (preferably one that can sound great straight out of the Ipod 5.5 Gen). I currently own a pair of Spider TinyEar and for the retail price they sound great but I want to explore what is out there if I go further up the scale with IEMs
I listen to all genres with an emphasis on Rock/Metal and singer/songwriter stuff. I'd like to stay within the $100-130 price range (the lesser the better without sacrificing too much in SQ) and I'm not against buying used. I'm in favor of a clear/crisp presentation with great details and attack but also love good bass (something more or less in the vent of AKG K701, perhaps without the big soundstage). In order of preference:
1. Clarity/Details
2. Comfort and isolation (I have quite small ear canals and the small single flange tips on the TinyEar fit just right)
2. Attack
3. Sweet mids (at least not too recessed)
4. Bass
I've done some research and come down to the two candidates: HF5 and XBA-3 which happen to be more or less in my price range. According to what I've read, they are quite different animals, one being accurate, detailed but somewhat cold sounding vs one with rather warm, bassy signature.
My question is that for my list of preferences above, which one would be a better choice. I'm also happy to know if there's any other good options in this price range.
Thanks so much in advance!!!