Hi Everyone,
I'm not new to the site. I've read a few very informative posts on here before, but I've finally decided to join. I should've joined during my first foray into hi-fi audio, which was when I bought a pair of IEMs for work and speakers and sub for my new computer, but I didn't. I'm into all sorts of music, but I've recently been into gaming soundtracks/scores. I also suffer from tinnitus, so I rarely enjoy headphones now, because I'm too paranoid that the volume could be too loud. (I haven't spent the money on an SPL meter yet, I really should. It's difficult to get a reading on my phone, plus I don't trust it doesn't need calibration.)
Here's my gear/setup:
IEMs - Denon AH-C710
Soundcard - Asus Essence STX
Speakers - Audioengine A5
Sub - Outlaw Audio M8
Headphones - AKG K702 65th Anniversary Edition
The headphones are primarily for gaming. (My thanks to Mad Lust Envy and his/her gaming headphone guide.) I was actually considering the Swan M8 for my computer speakers, but I wanted a downward firing sub. At that point, I decided to piece together my own system. After reading more, on here, I see I may have been able to make some better choices, but I think I did pretty good for a first time.
A while ago I listened to a high sample, high bit depth (192 KHz, 24 bits) fan remastered version of the Star Wars Trilogy score...my mind and ears were blown away by the quality. At this point, I was convinced that digital music could be the best medium for music to date...if they would only release it with a high sample rate and bit depth. (Yes, there are problems with people having the equipment to enjoy it, but I digress. There are probably a few threads on this already, if not I'll make one.) It made me wonder what else I was missing out on.
I don't think I will ever get monitors, as they are analytical, and not all my music would cut the mustard when it comes to them. I'm also very hesitant about falling into audiophile territory. I've seen how much equipment can cost, and I can't fathom how people spend that kind of money. I have a lot of lossy music in my library and nothing I can do about it, as some of the stuff only exists in that format, so I will probably only ever have loudspeakers. I also don't quite understand the aural appeal of vinyl, and I've read up on this. However, I do understand the emotional appeal of having something tangible, as I'm still partial to CDs because of this, despite what I mentioned above. I also prefer to digitize my own music to FLAC, unless I can get some kind of assurance, as I have no idea what equipment was used when someone else does it. And I balk at the idea of paying more than the cost of a CD for "HD music."
Looking forward to getting some help, as well as being able to contribute to the community.