Quote:
Originally Posted by chungsoi
MS-2i and RS-1's are totally different beasts. I'd say the sr-225 is closer to the RS-1's creamy presentation where as the ms-2i was more cold and anlytical.
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The MS2i are more closer to the Hp-2's than the rs-1's. The only problem is it isn't even close.
The MS2i can or MS2's for that matter are very good cans in their own right. The only problem is when compared directly to a hp-series phone then the MS2 or i's come off badly. It sounds like a more "rawer" version. Also the highs of the hp-2's don't go as high as say a R-10 or he60. But it is very smooth at the top.
By comparison the MS2i's sound grainy at the top end. It's not as cohesive.
For the price though you can't complain about the Ms2's or i's. And represent for those who want the Grado style cans but with out the grado highs it proves itself to be worthy addition to your collection.
Seek out a pair to audition and make you own decision if it has a place in your collection.
Is the Rs-1 worth it? I don't know the answer for I have a bias towards the headphone. It is my one of my two top faves for sure. Technically it can't compete with the "mega" headphones. But I do find it's midrange the most seductive of all the headphones I have owned. I know of many owners who loved it but then tire of the sweet midrange and long decay rates. I never got to that stage.
I love it warts and all. The woolly bass, the somewhat etchy highs when using bowls. I love the look of it. But I think for the most part if you can find an amp which synergises with it, even modest budget amps it can reward if given the chance. I disagree it needs a super expensive amp to make it sing.
One of my first amps was an EMP. It sung like an angel. Sure it didn't have that controlled bass and the detail was a little lacking but that midrange blew me away.
But on the flip side I can understand why people get put off by the midrange and they rather stick to their Ms2's or whatever. Not everyone can handle the midrange.
But audition and listen with your own ears. Try it flats, bowls to see if you think you could put in the hours with it. Make sure that the comfort level is adequate for you as I know many headfiers dislike Grado's comfort.
But most of all have fun auditioning them and other headphones as well.