Even though the sonic differences between Citadel and Oblivion are described on the website, I wonder how immediately noticeable they are with the 2 amps side by side for a comparison. It does seem that both still have that tube tone but with varying degrees.
There will be many who will like this sound signature because it's a high fidelity sound. I know I do. When you go to a HiFi Show, high fidelity sound is what you expect to hear. I'm not particularly fond of a setup with over emphasised bass. The bass on Oblivion isn't light either. It's in the right proposition. There are times with certain songs, I marvel at the bass dished out from the HD800, a headphone that is not noted for it's bass. With a high quality recording of a song, it is immensely enjoyable. With these amps, you would want to try as many headphones as possible. I agree with the addition of the 1/4 inch headphone out together with the xlr balanced out, it would have been more convenient.
Back in Sydney for the 3 days long weekend for Australia Day, I am missing my main headphone rig even though I have my stereo here.