[arnaud]

Thanks. Am I correct that this is all simulations rather than actual measurements?

That's correct, feel free to ignore, I might have no idea what I am talking about

 

[gilency]

Thats funny; I think you are actually one of the few around here who really really know what they are talking about.

 

[Michgelsen]

  So, just how stupid would it be to get an SR-009 and then run it off an energizer or cheaper Stax amp (SRM-1 MK2, SRM-252S)?  I'm about 3/4 done saving for a used pair and honestly I can't spare enough for BHSE/KGSSHV, ever. An energizer or older amp would probably be used until I get something better like an SRM-323. 
 
I searched and haven't found anyone who has done this. I actually did try the cheapo 252S with an 009 a long time ago and it wasn't too bad, just not loud enough (wasn't on my source so maybe that was the issue).  

 
It's better than nothing, so go for it. And, the headphones are by far the most decisive factor for overall sound quality of your system, compared to amp or source.

 

[David1961]

 
So, just how stupid would it be to get an SR-009 and then run it off an energizer or cheaper Stax amp (SRM-1 MK2, SRM-252S)?  I'm about 3/4 done saving for a used pair and honestly I can't spare enough for BHSE/KGSSHV, ever. An energizer or older amp would probably be used until I get something better like an SRM-323. 

I searched and haven't found anyone who has done this. I actually did try the cheapo 252S with an 009 a long time ago and it wasn't too bad, just not loud enough (wasn't on my source so maybe that was the issue).  

It's better than nothing, so go for it. And, the headphones are by far the most decisive factor for overall sound quality of your system, compared to amp or source.

I disagree, I believe source comes first, then amp, and then headphones.

I'm fortunate enough to have the 009's and BHSE, and I got the SR-003mk2 about three weeks ago to use with my BHSE.
I mainly got the 003's to use when it gets hot in the UK, but because they sound so good driven by the BHSE I'm going to be using them as much as the 009's.
The SQ from 003's isn't as open as the 009's while driven by the BHSE, but to me the 003's still sound pretty amazing.
I've also heard my 009's with two Stax amps ( SRM-007t and 717 ) and if I had to choose between either the 003mk2/BHSE or 009/ Stax amps mentioned, then without doubt I'd choose the 003/BHSE.

 

[n3rdling]

Headphones make by far the biggest difference, I don't even see how that's a debate.  The measurements show huge differences as well.  Give me a SR-009 with a cheap Stax amp and a soundcard over the most expensive source with ibuds any day.
 
JustinBieber, check out the old SRM-1 and SRM-T1 amps.  They're vintage amps that will serve you well with the 009s and shouldn't be too expensive.

 

[Sorrodje]

 out the old SRM-1 and SRM-T1 amps.  They're vintage amps that will serve you well with the 009s and shouldn't be too expensive.

 
That's a good thing to know. Do you Think my old SRM1 would serve well for a 007 mkII too ?

 

[Ali-Pacha]

Headphones make by far the biggest difference, I don't even see how that's a debate.  The measurements show huge differences as well.  Give me a SR-009 with a cheap Stax amp and a soundcard over the most expensive source with ibuds any day.


 


JustinBieber, check out the old SRM-1 and SRM-T1 amps.  They're vintage amps that will serve you well with the 009s and shouldn't be too expensive.

 

How true.

Ali

 

[Lan647]

Headphones make by far the biggest difference, I don't even see how that's a debate.

Agreed.

 

[wink]

Some would debate anything.

 

[n3rdling]

   
That's a good thing to know. Do you Think my old SRM1 would serve well for a 007 mkII too ?

The 007 is more picky about amping than the 009, so the bass might be a bit loose but try it out and see what you think.  It should do an OK job.

 

[Sorrodje]

Thks n3rdling

.

 

[astrostar59]

   
It's better than nothing, so go for it. And, the headphones are by far the most decisive factor for overall sound quality of your system, compared to amp or source.

I don't agree wit that. You can put a remarkably good headphone like the 009 on the end of a remarkably weak front end, and what do you get? You get a microscope to what is wrong with your front end - edgy treble, flabby bass, flat dynamics and soundstage i.e remarkably poor and irritating sound.
 
It is about system synergy. You need to get roughly equal parts in the chain to have a balanced system that doesn't irritate in long listening sessions. Otherwise, you will not use it, and it will gather dust. The 507s hide some failures upstream, as do the 007s in the treble region (not the bass as those headphones need lots of juice from a decent amp).
 
I would say yes, buy the 009s, but be aware you will quickly be saving up for a better amp and smoother DAC. As long as that is the long term plan, fine.
 
Dig around this forum, ask 009 users. Look at the profiles of 009 users. It is no mistake that most have a BHSE, KGSShv or similar amps, and good front ends....

 

[pataburd]

I agree with astrostar59.  Overall synergy from the front end all the way to the headphones is what matters in the end, and this is particularly telling when you have highend gear on either end of the chain.

 

[realmassy]

I'm using a 252 when I don't want to turn on my main tube amp and it drives my 009 just fine. I connect the 252 to the RCA output of my Hex and there are obvious differences but the 009 is very enjoyable anyway.

 

[scottiebabie]

does anyone have an idea if the 404LE pads will fit the 407? thanks