[evanhindra]

Hey all, 
 
 
I've been contemplating of upgrading my Fiio E17 + E09K / AudioTechnica ATH-A900 combo, to Sony's UDA1B / MDR-1R; and I would like to hear your thoughts!
 
I really liked the way the Sony amp sounded, but that could also be Sony MDR-1R cans too and I wonder if it's worth the effort and money to upgrade from my current setup. I'm a complete n00b when it comes to audio, I've read up the basics on DAC/Amps way back, and I sorta understand what it does. And I do agree the cans I currently have, sounds much better with the Fiio DAC I have. 
 
The primary reason I like the Sony cans is the comfort, albeit I've only used the cans briefly (no more than 10 minutes). I find the Sony cans to be even more comfortable than the ATH-A900 I have, and I've shied away from better sounding cans because of comfort reasons. The Sony's DAC seem to have more offer more functionality than my current Fiio too (Sony's DAC can drive speakers too).
 
 
Anyhow, I would love to hear your thoughts, recommendations or even discouragements .
 
 
Thanks!

 

[appsmarsterx]

are you looking for a closed back headphone ? if you don't care about sound isolation, just go for an open back headphone for more natural listening experience.  what is your musical preference? more bass heavy genres, or more instrumental, vocal based genres?  do you have any specific budget atm ? 

 

[evanhindra]

Budget: WHAT MAKES SENSE. 
 
I'd spend upwards $700 on a DAC/Amp combo, and $500 on a headphone. 

 

[appsmarsterx]

then you can easily go for K712pro or K702 65th anniversaries.  Hifiman EF2A and HRT Music Streamer II should work perfectly with AKGs.