Were to go from the Oppo PM-3

[hendo]

So I have been using the Oppo PM-3 the last 6 months combined with an Apogee Groove.

I went to the Oppo PM-3 from a beyerdynamic DT770 pro 80ohm.

I'm starting to get why some reviews say these headphones are amazingly detailed but not energetic. The DT770s have a bit more bass thump and I'd put these more in line with my Grado SR80 headphones in terms of the lower frequencies. When I listen to classic rock there is a feeling that goes with it which for some reason is reduced a little with these. I mean you can listen to newer Mark Knopfler tunes and hear every little detail of his playing and has a super open soundstage for a closed back headphone, which is amazing, but there are times I want a bit more punch.

Does anyone just EQ the PM-3s to get a bit more bass/punch or what have you moved on to for a closed back headphone that retains a good soundstage but has a bit more punch?

 

[PaganDL]

Hi Hendo,

This is a highly subjective area you're delving into but as PM 3s are planars, they are not recommended for EQ as that isn't what a planar driver necessarily responds to unless it's been tuned that way which is tricky since it's purpose is to offer a neutral to natural sound by moving in a controlled manner as little as possible as opposed to a dynamic driver which is why as a general rule bass response is lacking for some.

Though in my experience, since I own the PM 3s, I have found if the source has a good base response, think Eagles Hotel California from the album Hell Freezes Over as one example, (your opinion may differ), there is enough bass to be satisfactory (once again, your opinion may differ).

So if you require more bass response, try a good closed back like Fostex 610 or Sony WH 1000 X M2 as two examples.

PM 3 also has different wider rear facing sound when used with it's balanced cable which does expand the bass response as well.

As a final note, if you think it's worth it or I suggest a demo or canjam is the Final D 8000, their relatively new flagship open back planar.
With the right source & power, the bass response is close to a dynamic but once again, due to being a planar, it is different.
Not something I would consider, given it is out of my budget nor am I really interested in opens but it is likeable enough.

I would be interested to see how you progress with this so let me know how it goes for you.