Hop Pocket
New Head-Fier
- Joined
- Jul 26, 2004
- Posts
- 18
- Likes
- 10
Hello!
I've been lurking for a little while on these boards, trying to get a good feel for a first set of real headphones. I finally decided on a pair of Grado SR-80's and I honestly take them with me wherever I go
These cans (I'm still adjusting to the lingo) are simply great.
When I first got them, I thought they were pretty mediocre, however. About 3-4 weeks later though I guess they sufficiently burned in and are much better.
I've noticed a difference listening to music at home through my Kenwood uber-consumer-model amplifier versus my iPod versus my integrated sound board on my work computer.
Here's more detail on that:
1. Kenwood Receiver
Sounds the best. I've not adjusted the bass or amp settings on the receiver at all -- I simply play analog audio out from my G4 to the receiver. The bass is much deeper coming from my receiver and the sound is much fuller overall.
2. iPod
Sounds the weakest. I've read on other places that the SR-80's don't need much to be driven sufficiently, but my experience with the iPod (3rd Gen) tells me otherwise. Attempts to compensate for the tinny sound by using the built-in equalizer result in sound clipping on the lower end of the spectrum and is ultimately dissatisfying.
Do I need a headphone amp for my iPod?
3. SoundMax integrated sound board
This is running on my work PC. While it sounds better than that of my Ipod, it still does not sound as well as it does coming from my receiver.
Are my experiences typical? Most of my listening time is spent at work and if I were to empty more of my wallet (happily, mind you!) I'd probably want to modify my sound set up on my work PC.
Any suggestions or thoughts?
I've been lurking for a little while on these boards, trying to get a good feel for a first set of real headphones. I finally decided on a pair of Grado SR-80's and I honestly take them with me wherever I go
When I first got them, I thought they were pretty mediocre, however. About 3-4 weeks later though I guess they sufficiently burned in and are much better.
I've noticed a difference listening to music at home through my Kenwood uber-consumer-model amplifier versus my iPod versus my integrated sound board on my work computer.
Here's more detail on that:
1. Kenwood Receiver
Sounds the best. I've not adjusted the bass or amp settings on the receiver at all -- I simply play analog audio out from my G4 to the receiver. The bass is much deeper coming from my receiver and the sound is much fuller overall.
2. iPod
Sounds the weakest. I've read on other places that the SR-80's don't need much to be driven sufficiently, but my experience with the iPod (3rd Gen) tells me otherwise. Attempts to compensate for the tinny sound by using the built-in equalizer result in sound clipping on the lower end of the spectrum and is ultimately dissatisfying.
3. SoundMax integrated sound board
This is running on my work PC. While it sounds better than that of my Ipod, it still does not sound as well as it does coming from my receiver.
Are my experiences typical? Most of my listening time is spent at work and if I were to empty more of my wallet (happily, mind you!) I'd probably want to modify my sound set up on my work PC.
Any suggestions or thoughts?