Same pads: Brainwavz oval hybrids. Just be careful as Ive seen variation in their product’s foam density (both compliance and airflow) which could greatly effect the sound. This particular set has high airflow (breathable).
Ive only tried a couple more pads with SOCAS pad adapter. The pads I tried were all solid material which resulted in a sound half-way between hybrid and stock pads (specifically 1kHz prominence). Ive more pads that might work better, will update when and try to remember to tag you.
Also, remember mine is L500 which are apparently vented unlike non-L series. Signature will change dramatically with breathable (vented) hybrid pads and padrolling could be
dangerous (if you look at a few post earlier in hyperlink you’ll see
@takato14 share with us some neat vintage Pioneer electrostatics).
I havent listened to Stax much lately… Im waiting for SR-X1 availability or pre-order.
Lately Ive been lazy and listening to Grado PS500e (F-pads) from iPhone dongle (more info at
Gradorama thread). And when I do crave super duper bass Ill put on something else. Stax has been relegated to super niche for my tastes.
Still early impressions as I havent listened much lately: I think Stax niche may be it’s superior clear and detailed highs. But for my tastes (preference and music) that just means mainly clearer and detailed cymbals. But at what costs?:
1. meh bass (relative, I think L500 is on par with Senn 6XX in this regard which is totally satisfactory to others tastes)
2. inconvenience: being tethered to desktop rig, somewhat creaky plastic enclosure, and somewhat cumbersome size of enclosure and cable
3. Having to maintain exclusive components just for electrostats
Ive become somehwat bored of hifi hobby so my tolerances are different. Sorry for being a downer.