[Aeneas]

Simply, do people normally try in-ear headphones/IEMs before buying?



I'm in the UK so I always though it's not possible, but...

 

[Jubei]

When I go headphone shopping, I primarily go to 2 shops - both have headphones for test runs. Not all models are available for testing, but most budget to mid-high price range items can more or less be tested.

Over the last half a year, I've been able to sample cans this year, including:

Mingo WM-2
Soundmagic PL30 and PL50
JVC Flats
Audio Technica FC700
Audio Technica ONTO
Audio Technica ATH-ES55
Audio Technica ATh-ES7
Beyer DT-231
Senn 228
Senn 238
Senn IE6 (IE7 & IE8 also available for demo, but out of my price range so didn't want to be tempted)
Shure SE115
UE Triple.Fi
Ultrasone Zino

Many other models are also available for testing, just have to ask.

 

[techenvy]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jubei /img/forum/go_quote.gif When I go headphone shopping, I primarily go to 2 shops - both have headphones for test runs. Not all models are available for testing, but most budget to mid-high price range items can more or less be tested. Over the last half a year, I've been able to sample cans this year, including: Mingo WM-2 Soundmagic PL30 and PL50 JVC Flats Audio Technica FC700 Audio Technica ONTO Audio Technica ATH-ES55 Audio Technica ATh-ES7 Beyer DT-231 Senn 228 Senn 238 Senn IE6 (IE7 & IE8 also available for demo, but out of my price range so didn't want to be tempted) Shure SE115 UE Triple.Fi Ultrasone Zino Many other models are also available for testing, just have to ask.

u have good taste

 

[balderon]

@aameerp looks like you just missed a great opportunity in the UK.

Take a look at Local / Regional Head-Fi Meets, Parties, Get-Togethers for future events in your area. Not only would you have a chance to listen to some great gear, it would be a great opportunity to meet some fellow Head-Fi'ers.

 

[krmathis]

It depends...
More specific - If the head-/earphone I am interested in are available for audition I prefer to try before buying. Most head-/earphones I have bought are no longer in production though, so buying blind after reading other peoples impressions/reviews have been the only choice.

No regrets so far.

 

[fenixdown110]

Anyone know of any places in the States?

 

[incubus]

 
If you are in UK based in London, best place to go is
 
Shasonic, Panasonic
28 Tottenham Court Road,
London, W1T 1BT