New Member Introductions thread

[HonoredOne]

hi everyone! I’m new here but excited to finally be able to interact with the community!!

 

[interrofang]

The major thing I'm conflicted about is my choice of DAC/amp. I got a new Ifi Zen v3 for $190. I'm curious enough to order a Hifiman EF400 and see if it seems any different than the Zen, even though if I keep it, I would still use the Zen for walking around the house, and not needing a separate power cable. But if I could go back I think I would get a Chord Mojo 2 instead (especially since it's so light and battery-powered, wow). I wish I could try a Mojo 2. I'm curious if anyone here has any input on DAC/amps under $1000 (probably won't spend more than $650) that might pair well with the Noire X.

Can't speak to the Noire X, but from my own experience playing around with different DACs/amps, I would say save your money until you can audition different components. Most DACs come with DAC chips from either AKM or ESS until you get past a certain range past $700 where there are more novel implementations of R2R vs multibit DACs and FPGAs. Many people, including myself, can barely tell a difference while others believe the difference is stark in contrast (mostly by subjectivists). In terms of upgrades, new DACs are generally a poor value IMO.

Of all components, I honestly can't tell a huge difference between DACs when doing an A/B test. Furthermore, I recognize that my aural memory is inherently defective and biased. Second, I think age plays a role as well. Being 38 y/o, my ability to hear the higher end of the spectrum (past say, 15KHz) isn't as good as someone in their early 20's.

Amps on the other hand definitely do color the output to an appreciable degree, even though that too is subtle. Different SS and tube implementations will change the sound in subtle ways more than DACs. I prefer my Apos Gremlin over my Schiit Magnius, even though the Magnius measures better. So definitely take some time to listen to different amp designs from different manufacturers to hear what you like and don't pay any mind to the marketing BS. Otherwise you'll blindly spend money chasing the audio dragon and may end up with an unsatisfying choice.

 

[fidelityOne0]

Hi all,
I've been around here for a few years now but just registered. Looking forward interact with fine members here.

 

[melissatho]

so sounds great

 

[Death_Block]

Hi all, looking for advice, primarily on DAC/amps

I am new to shopping for gear, but trying to achieve affordable endgame. I tried Hifiman Edition XS and was happy with them, then on advice of family wanting closed-back, I went all-in on Dan Clark Audio Noire X and am satisfied by the improved imaging? detail? and consistently finding new layers in the recordings than I had before.

I am somewhat tempted to get an open-back like the Sennheiser HD660S2 that's on sale on Amazon or an Arya Stealth, but I'm pretty comfortable with the Noire X seeming like it's higher detail and separation than anything in its price range.

The major thing I'm conflicted about is my choice of DAC/amp. I got a new Ifi Zen v3 for $190. I'm curious enough to order a Hifiman EF400 and see if it seems any different than the Zen, even though if I keep it, I would still use the Zen for walking around the house, and not needing a separate power cable. But if I could go back I think I would get a Chord Mojo 2 instead (especially since it's so light and battery-powered, wow). I wish I could try a Mojo 2. I'm curious if anyone here has any input on DAC/amps under $1000 (probably won't spend more than $650) that might pair well with the Noire X.

Best endgame budget friendly headphone I’ve heard is the he1k. I loved the sound, but I didn’t like looking at it, and the treble is too hot for me but I don’t mind eq. plus it’s massive on me. I’m an old shrivelled up old man.
Brand new you could find it a smudge under a grand, or second hand I’ve seen as low as 550usd

 

[BassEQMonitor]

Hello, my name is Flo,

Since I keep ending up on Head-Fi while searching for relevant topics, I’d now like to actively participate as well.

My preferences lean toward bass-heavy gear (Empire Ears Triton, Ziigaat x HBB Arcadia, Kiwi Ears x HBB Punch, Fostex TH900, Scarlet on the way…).

Regarding DACs, I’m into devices with system-wide PEQ (HiBy R6, Qudelix), but also Mojo 2. Then I have two tube amps, XDuoo TA22, lil’ green XD05T with that extra BASS

For me, music should be colorful; overly analytical isn’t fun.

Music genres: Metalcore, Drum’n’Bass, but also Minimal, House, Dubstep and sometimes Saxophone chill…

 

[Vamp898]

Hello, my name is Flo,

Since I keep ending up on Head-Fi while searching for relevant topics, I’d now like to actively participate as well.

My preferences lean toward bass-heavy gear (Empire Ears Triton, Ziigaat x HBB Arcadia, Kiwi Ears x HBB Punch, Fostex TH900, Scarlet on the way…).

Regarding DACs, I’m into devices with system-wide PEQ (HiBy R6, Qudelix), but also Mojo 2. Then I have two tube amps, XDuoo TA22, lil’ green XD05T with that extra BASS

For me, music should be colorful; overly analytical isn’t fun.

Music genres: Metalcore, Drum’n’Bass, but also Minimal, House, Dubstep and sometimes Saxophone chill…

I am surprised you don't own the UE 11 Pro. At least that is an IEM where a lot of people complain, the bass is too strong (It is not that strong imho, but it's pretty hefty). So it might have just the right amount for you

 

[chordtet]

Hello all.

I've been a lurker for many years and decided to make an account on my journey for better fitting IEMs.

I've started with the Audio Technica ATH-M50x many years ago before I worn down the swivel on the caps. I updated and got the Sennheiser HD6XX as well as the Meze 99 Noir. After that I'm happy with them for a long awhile before I started going to IEM/TWS. I got my mom's older Sennheiser IEM short term before moving over to the JVC FDX1 and loving it. If you have a few minutes, please check my post since I'm looking for better-fitting IEMs (https://www.head-fi.org/threads/better-fitting-iems.976692/)

 

[BassEQMonitor]

I am surprised you don't own the UE 11 Pro. At least that is an IEM where a lot of people complain, the bass is too strong (It is not that strong imho, but it's pretty hefty). So it might have just the right amount for you

Oh, i have many more - even Japanese JVC HA-SZ2000 aka mobile Subwoofers (Over Ears). Always on the hunt for the next thrill.

I‘ve read about the UE11 Pro. Imho these as a keeper with custom molds could be my exit IEMs (or custom Empire Ears Legend X. Something ootb I don’t have to EQ for more BASS.

 

[Charai]

Need to introduce myself to build activity

My sensitiveness in everything led me to some expensive hobbies. I'm surprised some people don't get the experiences we do actually.

Hope everyone stays well in these trying times

 

[Vamp898]

Oh, i have many more - even Japanese Kennwood HA-SZ2000 aka mobile Subwoofers (Over Ears). Always on the hunt for the next thrill.

I‘ve read about the UE11 Pro. Imho these as a keeper with custom molds could be my exit IEMs (or custom Empire Ears Legend X. Something ootb I don’t have to EQ for more BASS.

I didn't see you're from Switzerland. You could also have an look at the VE4.2 (or VE8, depending on your budget). They too have hefty bass and could be slightly cheaper. The 6-driver IEM from Hörluchs also have bass boost, could also be an option (HL5610 and HL7610). There is a test-kit for the HL7 with all driver Versions to test, for free! It even contains different faceplates to compare. And, of course, Vision Ears, Hörluchs and InEar are all Made in Germany.

 

[selcoo]

Hi guys. I’ve been reading this forum for a few years and thought it’s best to actually join and partake in discussions now! I enjoy how different components have an effect on audio, especially valves/tubes. I am getting into headphone playback now, also.

Peace

 

[wyratt]

Oh, i have many more - even Japanese Kennwood HA-SZ2000 aka mobile Subwoofers (Over Ears). Always on the hunt for the next thrill.

I‘ve read about the UE11 Pro. Imho these as a keeper with custom molds could be my exit IEMs (or custom Empire Ears Legend X. Something ootb I don’t have to EQ for more BASS.

Wow, what is a mobile subwoofer?

 

[Vamp898]

Wow, what is a mobile subwoofer?

He was kidding because they have a lot of bass^^

 

[wyratt]

He was kidding because they have a lot of bass^^

lol