Thanks to those of you who have assisted me with solutions to my ear-ringing with the HD 800. I've recently discovered something that may be of value to you, and I hope the following serves you well:
When using the Resonessence Labs Invicta a few days ago to compare the HD 800, HD 700, HD 600, and LCD-2 rev.2 (more on that
here) I noticed that the Invicta's volume level display was in terms of dB level i.e. -30.00 dB, -25.00 dB etc. I realized that I didn't actually know what that meant, so I had a Google and checked my Lavry manual which indicated which volume marking on the Lavry's LCD panel with which type of connection resulted in which volume, and even though I measured my HD 800's output dB level with a decibel meter, it seems that I may have been listening at a higher level than is considered safe.
Using the graph in the Lavry manual to find the volume setting for an output ~80 dB (probably assuming the recording has neither been boosted or cut in relation to calibrated 0 db intrinsic loudness) and try it, I realize that is considerably lower than I have been listening (at ~100 dB, and less) and the sonic pressure of the resulting sound of recordings via the headphones is much, much less, yet all the detail is still there. But the real bonus is that my ears don't have to work as hard and use energy to initiate their acoustic reflex (more on that
here). In short music with headphones definitely sounds better and more enjoyable to me at low volumes. No more 'rock concert' headphone listening volumes for this guy!
Now, with the HD 800 at low listening volumes the sound is much less fatiguing; the clarity is there, but the experience is much gentler on my ears (thank you) and there are NO harsh treble issues whatsoever. To my ears the HD 800 is truly shining now, and I'm considering removing the anaxilus mod to see what they sound like.
To all HD 800 users reading this, if you haven't already, I highly recommend you investigate your listening volume, checking your equipment documentation as necessary. The HD 800 is almost wasted by using it too loudly, and I wouldn't be surprised if that's why so many people have been saying the HD 800's treble is harsh (it WILL hurt with the HD 800 or any other headphones when used too loudly!). To me quiet listening is the way to get the most out of the HD 800; it's made for clarity, and low-listening volumes clearly facilitate that.
I'm really grateful for those of you who suggested that the ringing in my ears was due to volume, and I'm grateful for being prompted to do some R&D on volume levels and safe listening. I've also learned about the benefits of learning about my equipment (manual-reading is most probably a wise time investment) and the implications of different settings.
Here's to happy low-volume listening!
The latter photo is top notch.
