I have a question about orthos with WA22 using 7236 power tubes. My main question is, where is the dividing line between what WA22 can power with authority and bring out the headphones full potential?
I have had the HifiMan HE5LE for a couple of weeks. I have found that it clearly sounds under powered overall. While I can tell that it is a strong technical headphone--great imaging, good detail retrieval, balanced FR, etc.-- it comes across as pretty lifeless overall, especially with classical. From what I have read, this is a clear sign they aren't getting the power they need o reach their full potential. Every once in awhile I'll run across a small intimate jazz recording that must require less juice and I get a glimpse of how engaging and immersive they can feel.
So where is the dividing line my friends? I see that HE500 are a couple of db more sensitive. I also hear that LCD2 are more sensitive than HE5LE. Would these more sensitive orthos reach their full potential or close to it with WA22 7236 tubes? I'm sure they would sound "really good" but with orthos there seems to be a wide gulf between being good and reaching their full potential. I get the feeling only HE400 would truly be fully powered.
Hopefully some of you have the depth of experience in this area to help me out.
Cheers.