Stax X9000 or other similar level headphones - a speaker audiophile is in search for a set of good headphones
Sep 20, 2023 at 9:19 AM Post #46 of 60
How much is retail of eksonic t2?

And how close is blue hawaii se headamp to it?
approximately 13,000USD depending upon current pricing and exchange rates

Close is relative based on too many factors, but for me they aren't close. I consider the Eksonic Aeras closer to the T2 than BHSE is but there are others who have differing opinions.
 
Sep 20, 2023 at 9:43 AM Post #47 of 60
So basically with that classified ad for the t2, I’m just getting it sooner then if I had it built?
 
Sep 20, 2023 at 10:15 AM Post #48 of 60
So basically with that classified ad for the t2, I’m just getting it sooner then if I had it built?
Probably quite a bit more quickly.
Depends on how patient you are.

I've also heard that new build pricing is going up.
 
Sep 20, 2023 at 10:17 AM Post #49 of 60
So basically with that classified ad for the t2, I’m just getting it sooner then if I had it built?
Sooner receipt by six months and the no longer available finish, if that matters.
 
Sep 20, 2023 at 11:41 AM Post #50 of 60
There’s a diy t2 on classifieds, is that a good unit?
 
Sep 20, 2023 at 6:43 PM Post #51 of 60
He doesn’t mention builder I don’t believe but I am pretty sure that one is from a reputable builder.

Really even the Kerry one is “DIY” and was definitely DIY before he created Eksonic about 1.5 years ago. Now it’s the same build but under a company name.
 
Sep 20, 2023 at 7:24 PM Post #52 of 60
Thx @Chefguru and @number1sixerfan

That is enlightening

I have reached out to the classified for t2 and x9000. There’s probably one person ahead of me, so we shall see. I think I have a decent idea of where to start and how to quickly prep myself for a quick escape out of the merry go round as well.

We shall see
Looking at your 2 channel setup, you're using JL subs, correct? I guess the question would be how important is the bass quantity to you? If you need a good amount of bass, perhaps planar headphones will be the better route.
 
Sep 20, 2023 at 9:33 PM Post #53 of 60
Looking at your 2 channel setup, you're using JL subs, correct? I guess the question would be how important is the bass quantity to you? If you need a good amount of bass, perhaps planar headphones will be the better route.
Not the biggest bass head

99% of the time I listen to my Magico M2 with subs off

The M2 are just that good alone
 
Sep 20, 2023 at 10:34 PM Post #54 of 60
I’m in conversation with a nice fella

I’m thinking BHSE is the right way to go. Easier to service than the T2.
 
Sep 24, 2023 at 9:39 AM Post #55 of 60
I’m in conversation with a nice fella

I’m thinking BHSE is the right way to go. Easier to service than the T2.

I've sent my T2 back to Eksonic and I've sent my BHSE back to headamp. I would not say that's the case at all, and certainly not something I'd base my decision off of.

That said, the BHSE is a fine choice, and it is one of my favorite amps I've ever owned. Absolutely incredible. At its price range, the Eksonic Aeras is the only thing I've heard that I enjoyed a bit more. The x9000 pairs a bit better with the Aeras and T2 for the same reason, they both have a bit better timbre and bass than the BHSE. In comparison to the Aeras however, the BHSE is a bit more airy and slightly more spacious. A simple tradeoff.

I would focus on the way people are describing the sound of all of the amps they've recommended, and try to figure out where your preferences align. That would be my priority factor.
 
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Sep 24, 2023 at 10:23 AM Post #56 of 60
He doesn’t mention builder I don’t believe but I am pretty sure that one is from a reputable builder.

Really even the Kerry one is “DIY” and was definitely DIY before he created Eksonic about 1.5 years ago. Now it’s the same build but under a company name.
If it's the previous listed T2, the builder is himself. He has been around for quite a time although less as the build for commission type.
 
Sep 24, 2023 at 12:25 PM Post #57 of 60
Got my weekly Head-fi email and noticed interest in Stax SR-X9000 & others.

OK. OP heard Sony ZR1 and Utopia and no like. Those are already aces for their time. Trade publications placed Utopia above HD800, etc. ofc, this was before Abyss and Susvara.

A5527C1E-1E32-4ACA-8380-5F19388D2455_1_201_a.jpeg


To cut this short, I own most of these and many are rotated less now, as new models come into play.

In terms of amps
, you actually can get excellent use with a $900 portable amp like this one with the SR-X9000. Great when you're on a boat, RV, out in the woods.
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To get maximum use out of the SR-X9000, you'll want some tube amp. I had many, Blue Hawaii, Cary, etc., now I use the LTA Z10e. But others will work too.
Really depends on your music of choice. You want out of your head, pictures at an exhibition sound scape or pounding R&B. That will dictate which amp.

D15E4AF9-EC3F-4726-94A2-ECD9EEF88E87_1_105_c.jpeg


You mentioned Susvara. I love this with the Sony portable DAC/Player. On a boat. For my vocals and ensemble Jazz. This combo cannot be matched, even with full amps at home. The Susvara is favorite on the non Stax side. (The Abyss is a great alternative, but 11 out of 10 find it uncomfortable)

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For DACs, I continue using a Chord DAVE with the M Scaler or the Nagra DAC with recent upgrades. DAVE is super for higher SPL music while the wider, more delicate variety shines with the Nagra.

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See if you can sit somewhere and audition a few combinations. Good luck and trust your ears.
 
Sep 25, 2023 at 12:39 AM Post #58 of 60
Thx for the input
Wow
Lots to digest
Even included pics
Thx man
 
Dec 10, 2023 at 5:21 AM Post #60 of 60
Have you tried the Warwick acoustics stuff. great electrostatic systems.
I actually was able to hear Bravura and Aperio.
Not enough to make me want to pull the trigger.
 

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