[Silver]

Which choice will get me the biggest improvement in sound quality? Please see my signature for my rig.

 

[Hajime]

You might get an even bigger increase in sound quality by getting a new source.

 

[Guyferd]

source

 

[Silver]

Because of numerous reasons(size, convenience, etc), I don't think I will upgrade my source to my home CDP.

 

[Hajime]

Well, the Soundblaster Live! isn't a great souncard IMO, so you won't be getting the most out of the sr225's. If you got a new soundcard like the M-Audio Revolution you might get a lot better sound quality than if you used sr225's with a Live. Also, the M-Audio's supposed to have a pretty good amp built into it, so that may stop your need to upgrade for a bit.

 

[kartik]

if you are upgrading, then why stop at the 225s, go for the 325. However either of these would really benefit from an amp. So it is not really an "either-or" situation. If you get a 225/325 you will need an amp as these are harder to drive directly from a portable source as compared to the Sr-60/80. Consider the Stax SR-001 Mk II from Audiocubes, I haven't tried them but they might be an intersting upgrade.

 

[kartik]

I take that back. The stax are not too hot. Here's why:
http://www4.head-fi.org/forums/showt...ght=stax+mk+II

 

[Silver]

Quote:

Originally posted by kartik if you are upgrading, then why stop at the 225s, go for the 325. However either of these would really benefit from an amp. So it is not really an "either-or" situation. If you get a 225/325 you will need an amp as these are harder to drive directly from a portable source as compared to the Sr-60/80. Consider the Stax SR-001 Mk II from Audiocubes, I haven't tried them but they might be an intersting upgrade.

First of all, I am talking about priority. I will buy both of them eventually but which one, amp or phones, should I get first?

Well, according to many reviews here, the highs of 325 are too shrill. As I have a low tolerance for shrill highs, I don't think I will go for it.

 

[CRESCENDOPOWER]

Quote:

Well, according to many reviews here, the highs of 325 are too shrill. As I have a low tolerance for shrill highs, I don't think I will go for it.

I think you will be alright as long as you match it up with the right amp.

 

[Silver]

Quote:

Originally posted by CRESCENDOPOWER I think you will be alright as long as you match it up with the right amp.

Besides, 325 is well over my budget.

 

[kartik]

good point! but you could get a gently used one for less!

 

[Silver]

Where then?

 

[Rizumu]

higher number != better model

 

[Silver]

Quote:

Originally posted by Rizumu higher number != better model

Sure but I am just curious about that that good deal he is talking about.

 

[Rizumu]

Quote:

Originally posted by Silver Sure but I am just curious about that that good deal he is talking about.

I think he's just saying if you buy used it falls into your budget...not any particular deal.