[TSAVJason]

Been saving up for the amp, but I saw this thread about the whole ecosystem. Can anyone talk about the cable? Is it similar to the Axiom cable that Kimber sells direct? 

Same basic geometry but not the same product. The Axios is significantly better. But the Sony/Kimber is an improvement over the standard OEM

 

[Audio Addict]

The Source AV loaned an ecosystem for our Chicago meet Saturday and I am getting some time with it. It really does all go together nicely. They even included the upgraded Sony/ Kimber designed cable. I have about 4 hours of head time with it. Very natural sounds.

 

[asquare3376]

Earlier this afternoon, I had the honor of visiting The Source AV Design Group in Torrance, CA and demo the Sony exquisite "ecosystem". Stepping into the store, I had no intention of buying anything the very same day but ended up filling my car's boot with the TA-ZH1ES & MDR-Z1R.
Not only that Sony's ecosystem is so incredibly irresistible, but also Jason and the staff member (Wayne), were so friendly, I never felt that I'm outside my home taking a demo. Heck, we talked for 2 hrs from music, food, politics and what not. Wonderful experience, definitely visit them again very soon.

So, I went with my ZX100/PHA-3/Balanced 3.5mm KimberKable on Z7 to compare the sound with ZR1. The minute I hooked ZR1 with the balanced KK (still running on PHA-3), I knew I had to bring it home today. This ZR1 had roughly about ~20 hrs, yet the sound was so enveloping and surreal, there was no looking back. I bought the ZR1 with the upgraded "AXIOS" Kimberkable.
Note: Axios is not the regular Sony Kimberkable upgrade (which goes by MUC-B20SB1). It's a little more costly, a better sounding cable than the MUC-B20SB1. I found upper frequency to be a little harsh on my ears using the usual Sony KK, Axios fixed it well. Now, this could have been because ZR1 wasn't burned-in fully but nonetheless, Axios is a special cable indeed and I'm planning to keep it.
 
Going back for WM1Z in a few days time. I don't know why I didn't buy it today, should have gone for it while I was still there. Again, marvelous thick engaging sound from a portable.
If you're in Torrance, or can make a trip, please go visit Source AV and ask for Jason. He possesses so much knowledge and can really help you out making the right decision. Icing on the cake - you won't believe the out of this world deals he'll provide you with 

 
Thank you so much @TSAVJason for making my weekend so so romantic!!! Looking forward to another visit to the store 

 
http://www.thesourceav.com/

 

[purk]

They are a great group of people for sure!  Welcome to Signature Ecosystem club.

 

[asquare3376]

  They are a great group of people for sure!  Welcome to Signature Ecosystem club.

Thanks Purk.. And hey! we talked about you as well... Hahaha, nothing crazy, all good stuff 

 

[TSAVJason]

The PURK! How are you buddy?

 

[TSAVJason]

For those that don't know the NW-WM1A is out in 2 stores as of Monday the 17th. The Source AV & Woo Audio. Woo is scheduled to receive them Monday or Tuesday and TSAV has had them for 2 weeks. ON SALE NOW! For those that have asked the US market only has the black version.

 

[protoss]

Are the pads replaceable with other pads or is it only Sony pads? Example, Audeze pads work? 

 

[vcmusik]

  Are the pads replaceable with other pads or is it only Sony pads? Example, Audeze pads work? 

It has its own pad locking system which only works with the stock Z1R pads.

 

[protoss]

  It has its own pad locking system which only works with the stock Z1R pads.

Thats a shame. I heard the pads has some serious heating issues! Owell 

 

[vcmusik]

  Thats a shame. I heard the pads has some serious heating issues! Owell 

Really? They're quite comfy on my ears and don't trap a lot of heat that I feel. I might feel a little warm after a few hours but no more so than any of my other headphones. 

 

[protoss]

  Really? They're quite comfy on my ears and don't trap a lot of heat that I feel. I might feel a little warm after a few hours but no more so than any of my other headphones. 

Yea. It could be people from warmer climate conditions. or the pads themselves. Im not sure myself just talking. 

 

[Whitigir]

Ok, I don't get this....people who doesn't own the Z1R is talking about modifications and such ?.....