Sounds like you're getting some tube noise. The Bokeh is much more sensitive than the HD600 so it's not surprising you're hearing it more with the Bokeh. I have a similar issue with my Kenzie and some of the tubes I like for it. They have a slight hum/ring to them that my other tubes don't. And the Bokeh picks up on that easier than it's 300ohm brethren. Once music starts I don't notice it, so I deal with it, but it is annoying to hear it when nothing is playing. I had an Echo MK2 and the stock tubes were quiet, but the NOS tubes I rolled into it were noisy buggers. Unfortunately that's one of the biggest downsides to tube amps, the potential for noise. But given how great they sound, I just deal with it.
The stock cable is 3.5mm mono but i've been using my Arctic Cables 3.5mm TRS cable for Focals without issue. So if you have any Focal cables around they'll work. If you do want to try a new cable my cable go to's are Hart Audio Cables and also Artic Cables.
The 3.5mm focal cables will work on the Bokeh just fine https://www.audiophileninja.com/product/focal-hifiman-dual-3-5mm/
Never had a microphonic issue with Hart Audio, at least for their twisted four pair.
Definitely. Here’s my cables in use right nowThe ends are long enough to fit all the way in?
Well I think it's been more than five years since I last bought any Hart Audio cable. So maybe I'll check them out again.
Yes, detail and clarity are there in spades with the mesh removed for me. Don’t think I’ll go back to using mesh. Awesome cans!!!My thoughts after owning the Bokeh now for a few weeks.
Stock (perforated mesh and leather pads) these are quite mid bassy. Certainly more than any of my other headphones. With the optional tuning kit you have more pads and an unperforated mesh to combine in any way you like. I did most of my pad comparisons with the perforated mesh in place. Suede pads reduce the bass and make things more mid focused. Initially I thought this would be my preferred tuning. Hybrid pads are in between with reduced bass from full leather and more than full suede. However, with all 3 I felt like there was a slight persistent veil. I did leave this burning in between listening sessions and they probably got 40 - 50 hours total burn in before I settled. The perceived veil did seem to improve with burn in but didn't entirely lift.
I then decided to try removing the mesh entirely as the mesh seems to tame the highs. For me it was like the veil was lifted! I ended up settling on the leather pads for the bass but now nicely balanced by no mesh for increased airiness. I was specifically looking for a bassier set to add to my collection so this combo with the Bokeh fits the bill nicely. I particularly like them with more electronic styles like electronica, IDM, drum & bass etc.
