[gilsont]

Finally a Ear Pad Replacement for these K550!
 
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Headphoneque-Replacement-Ear-Pad-for-AKG-K-550-K-551-Headphones-/130952131017?pt=US_Replacement_Parts_Tools&hash=item1e7d5af1c9
 
I think this is one of the first repalcement ear pads I've ever seen on the internet.

 

[Orkboy]

I want to buy these headphones but I have a Cowon C2 with no line out. Cowons are reported to have really good internal amps, but would I benefit much from an external amp? If so, should I double amp or take it on the chin and buy a new DAP with line out?

 

[shadowox8]

Quote:

I want to buy these headphones but I have a Cowon C2 with no line out. Cowons are reported to have really good internal amps, but would I benefit much from an external amp? If so, should I double amp or take it on the chin and buy a new DAP with line out?

Well, the K550 is 32 ohm, so it doesn't take much to drive; I have used it straight out of my iPhone with no problems. However, I am no amp expert, so while I can tell you that you don't need an amp, there might be some out there who will tell you that the K550 would benefit from one.
 
I also feel safe telling you that, if you're planning on using the K550 primarily on-the-go, you might want to look elsewhere.

 

[Lorspeaker]

are u able to bring yor cowon to a nearby shop n try it out on a k550?
if that is not possible, then buy a USED k550, and take a chance.
The rewards are great if it fits your face and matches your taste in music.
if not, sell it. 

 

[cel4145]

Well, the K550 is 32 ohm, so it doesn't take much to drive; I have used it straight out of my iPhone with no problems. However, I am no amp expert, so while I can tell you that you don't need an amp, there might be some out there who will tell you that the K550 would benefit from one.

I've used my K550s with quite a few devices. They are fairly easy to drive. I agree. I wouldn't worry about whether or not the Cowon C2 will drive them.

 

[Orkboy]

I've tried them and it's a definite buy for me, but I'm not able to compare them with the cowon amped vs unamped at the moment. Nor am I able to compare them with cowon unamped vs a different DAP amped. Really I'm just wondering about the double amping issue and how it would compare to a DAP with a dedicated line out.

 

[Lorspeaker]

just hit the buybutton then, and wait for the next boy to walk by at the library with his portable amp

 

[Orkboy]

Hmm. Do I dare? I guess I'm just trying to make sure that I'll be able to squeeze the maximum amount of SQ from them with my current setup, maybe with a Fiio E11 for example, without needing to buy a new DAP with dedicated line out.

 

[zackzack]

Quote:

Well, the K550 is 32 ohm, so it doesn't take much to drive; I have used it straight out of my iPhone with no problems. However, I am no amp expert, so while I can tell you that you don't need an amp, there might be some out there who will tell you that the K550 would benefit from one.
 
I also feel safe telling you that, if you're planning on using the K550 primarily on-the-go, you might want to look elsewhere.

 
I disagree. The K550 does not sound so good straight out of my iPhone 5 (dark, recessed) but a small desktop headphone amp will be sufficient.
Then again, I could be slightly deaf from hours of listening with those phones on...

 

[shadowox8]

Quote:

Hmm. Do I dare? I guess I'm just trying to make sure that I'll be able to squeeze the maximum amount of SQ from them with my current setup, maybe with a Fiio E11 for example, without needing to buy a new DAP with dedicated line out.

If you have tried the K550, and you know you like them, buy them. Use them with your current DAP and listen casually. If you like what you hear, then you're done. If you feel like something is amiss or lacking, then start looking into other options (be it a DAP or amp). Don't get lost in the gear; music ( / audio) is the reason we're all here. Focus on being happy.
 
end of 2¢

 

[Orkboy]

Thanks. That's a wise sentiment. Unfortunately due to serious ocd issues I'm not comfortable buying anything unless I know I'll be able to enjoy it at its absolute optimum. It's kind if why I was attracted to this hobby in the first place. I certainly don't want to spend £140 on something I'll listen to only casually.

 

[plakat]

Quote:

(...) unless I know I'll be able to enjoy it at its absolute optimum.

 
Thats a dark road you're heading down here It may lead to greater expenses than £140...
 
Nevertheless your ears and taste are the final word on how much you enjoy something. Listen and try out -- I'd say you can hardly sketch out *your* perfect system on paper / by reading a forum. There is much less absolute knowledge than might seem upfront... many things come down to taste. Its about enjoying music after all

 

[bonfirehay]

Many, if not most, audiophiles have OCD. We are the cash cow of the industry. 

 

[DrForBin]

Quote:

Many, if not most, audiophiles have OCD. We are the cash cow of the industry. 

+10

 

[Wicked world]

After owning the K550 for a month or so I did a comparison with my other (beloved) headphones, the Beyerdynamic DT-990. I have used the Beyers for a couple of years and never really understood why people call them bright, but after having only listened to the AKG's for the last month... I understand why people think they are bright! Or maybe the K550's are on the "dark side"? I still love the Beyers but I think the K550's have a much more relaxed sound, which I might prefer... for the moment at least.