A headphone reviewer's reference gear

[@LSDScreen]

To answer your question, Andrew, I have multiple headphones because I feel they have different strengths and weaknesses, as well as synergies with particular genres or even individual albums. My neutral reference is the Susvara, but I’ll often choose the Verite for metal and rock and the Atrium for female-vocal centric tracks. I’ve played around with EQ a lot (running Fab Filter in Audirvana), but in the end I like my headphones the way they are for their uniqueness. As far as equipment, I am using a Holo Stack for reference. The Bliss has both low and high Z modes, so that makes it suitable and reliable for everything.

[@GadZookz]

Thanks Resolve! Great to see the the cap is back. In truth you are the warrior monk of headphone reviewers, capturing sonic purity with some of the the most simple and sublime head-gear at your disposal. As always, your daily listening choices skate the razor’s edge between heresy and brilliance.👍🏻

[@ResolveReviews]

haha it's actually a new hat entirely. It's called smartwool - and it's super breatheable up top. I really like it.

[@GadZookz]

@@ResolveReviews Long Live the New Hat!

[@Artoria858]

As a headphone reviewer viewer, I approve this message

[@sboisbiu_2825]

As a headphone reviewer reviewer, I approve

[@spasticnerd866]

As a KZbin video viewer, I disapprove your approval of this message.

[@Thoughtflux]

As a headphone reviewer viewer reviewer i approve the above reviewer viewer review.

[@riseuplight]

As a viewer of headphone reviewer comments I approve

[@justmemememe3354]

As a headphone reviewer reviewer viewer, I approve this message

[@blacksixjae]

As a normie, I have no idea what a reference headphone is supposed to be like. But after trying a few different things, I've settled on the Focal Clear, HD600, and Moondrop Variations (for portability)

[@sboisbiu_2825]

Variations -3 low shelf is the most "neutral" sound tonally I've ever experienced

[@blacksixjae]

@@sboisbiu_2825 I have no idea what neutral is supposed to sound like haha. I just like how the Variations sound like.

[@AverieS820]

Cool video, nice to hear the prespective of gear from a reviewer. My IEM neutral reference is the 7th Acoustics Supernova, and I have no headphone reference as I'm not really into them anymore, but I do love my Focal Clears.

[@maciejgeming8555]

My reference headphone is also HD 600 but with ZMF lambskin perforated pads. For me, the change is sensational. 1) soundstage is wider and a bit deeper; 2) bass became stronger and richer; 3) imaging from left to right is more fluent than before; 4) overall feeling is more pleasing; 5) mids are not as much up front, but still very detailed and energetic enough; 6) the amount of treble is lower than on the original pads, highs are smoother but also more transparent and more detailed; 7) especially bass and wind instruments sound more holographic. What may be a bit strange, I like the sound of this set more when pads are placed the other way round than suggested by ZMF guys. Before the pads change I used 6XX's as much often as 600s to have a 2nd view on the music and also 560s and 770 pro when I was checking the mixes, but right now If I will have to keep only 600s with ZMF's... I will feel fine too. To be honest I use the other ones just to refresh my mind from time to time, and come back to the 600s with more joy.

[@maciejgeming8555]

@@TheWorldTeacher for sure they have suede pads, I like suede with the 6XX's (more energy in the treble more defined bass, but also a bit less midrange "magic"). I was so happy with lambskin perf that I have not tried 600s with suedes.

[@maciejgeming8555]

@@TheVeganVicar That's what I found on ZMF site about that: "NOTE: Vegan users! Fear not, our headphones all can come in 100% vegan form. On the configuration page of any headphone, you will have the option to select suede headbands, straps, and earpads instead of leather." So - I think - not in that case, but to be 100% sure it's best to write to ZMF guys.

[@ohChillum]

Suede is leather

[@JanPippel]

Good morning guys, I‘ve listened to many headphones in a pricerange up to 1,5k (€ obviously…i life in europe) and owned a few personally. Kind a like the same on amps and dacs… In the end mostly i recommend Hifimans 4XX or Sennheiser 6XX from drop, to ppl how ask to begin with and a topping DX3 or JDS Labs amp/dac. To me it’s a great starting point under 500. Personally i‘m ended up with a Aune X1s GT as amp/dac and a pair of Austrian Audio Hi-X60 closed back phones…this pair fits my listening style the most. Listening to r&b, soul, funk, melodic jazz, hiphop and electronic music…sometimes to a little bit of rock/punk… The warm, natural and also neutral sound of this pair fits perfectly into this kind of music in my opinion.

[@ahmadatifatif8625]

I consider the Etymotic ER2SE and HD 600 as my references due to their popularity and the fact that people in my circle frequently compare open-back headphones and IEMs with them. I've chosen everything else based on my personal preferences.

[@pizzapoop17]

exactly what i have. your very wise!

[@ROCKSTAR3291]

I like the Audio Technica ATH-R70X, they are my reference for a smooth and natural sounding headphone, also has more bass and way better comfort than my 6XX.

[@Dicloneus66]

If you're just evaluating on what to buy next, the easiest thing to use as point of reference is the first product that dragged you down to this rabbit hole of a hobby. My first one was the Shure e2c 15 years ago, then the Ultimate Ears triple fi.10 pro 5 years later, and I've been going back to those as point of reference ever since.

[@soulfulfool]

Audio Technica ATH AD500X was my first open back so it changed my point of view about headphones forever. Tested many brands but at the end my reference sound is Audio Technica ADX5000. My other headphones are just a flavours, since I own them I lost interest in top tier headphones just because I would gain to little for so much more money. Rather to buy a car seriously 😆

[@zeeMuniStacksBundles]

Glad I kept the HD595, I still have the super.fi 3, but haven't used them in over a decade. The next one in the lineup that got committed was the infamous HD600 2015 model. I just use the HD600 to compare everything to these days among some others.

[@christiharris292]

i found myself surprised the Dunu SA6 OG or MKII wasn't there over the Oracle. I bought the SA6 OG on Resolve's recommendation a couple years back and still love it. TBH the Oracle is a true reference for me too, the tuning is so good and vocals are beautiful. Excellent discussion.

[@glennmckenzie1096]

My studio choice is the AKG712 (open backed) with Sonarworks which noticably gives tighter lower end and a better balanced frequency range - the result is 'clean/accurate and precise'. My daily use is the Rode NTH100 (closed back) - superb value here in the Anitipodes, and the 'cooling' ear pads are great in this climate - they are very unhyped, quite 'plain' sounding which is a good way to check that my writing/performance contains a decent amount of intrinsic dynamic range and vibe.

[@JKHYT]

K371 is a perfect low cost reference. It's not going to sound hollow and rolled-off like most open back recommendations do, which I think has a tendency to turn off a lot of "normies" that may be just getting their feet wet. I think it's a far better recommendation than HD600 for a first-time buyer.

[@minigaangsta]

I use 2 headphones. The HE1000v2 stealth and the IE600. One at home one on the go. Both with my Mojo2 (a fun little device). Verry happy with both soundsignatures and will not sidegrade only maybe upgrade in the future. First thing to upgrade will be the amp (I have caught interest in the cayin ha-3a) and then maybe in a few years I will get a serious endgame IEM.

[@eruilluvitar]

If you're going purely for form factor, check out the RME ADI-2/4. It's _really_ good and has been able to easily power everything I have, including the Susvara and the Andromeda.

[@En_Joshi-Godrez]

What was your reference amp for the susvara before this?

[@eruilluvitar]

@@En_Joshi-Godrez I can't really say I had one specific amp, but I've used it on everything from a Denon home theater amp to the Ferrum Oor, to the A90 to tube amps like the WA23 and Manley Absolute. Favorite overall pairing is the Oor, but the RME is an all in one tiny unit that's much, much more portable and compact. You can even power it off a battery bank, which makes it semi portable.

[@Peace_Guard]

Are you really suggesting RME-ADI instead of a Ferrum stack? Come on.

[@eruilluvitar]

@@Peace_Guard Per my initial comment, "If you're going purely for form factor" yes. It cannot be denied that a single 1/2RU do it all box is a more convenient form factor than the 2 or 3 box Ferrum stack.

[@Peace_Guard]

@@eruilluvitar Well, not really. Because I don't think his aim is to get a gear with weaker sonic performance than his current one. And if he really would want to go for form factor alone, then why not Mojo 2, which is the best out of current mobile DACs? Smaller and better sonically than ADI.

[@twoften]

Welcome to the Headphone Show. It has been [0] days since our last praising of the HD600.

[@Aegir616]

Senny HD600s and Etymotic SR2SEs through a FiiO K7. Neutral as Switzerland

[@Dr.Dan_K]

Focal Elegia with Dekoni Stellia pads and modded Hifiman HE6SE V2 are my benchmark headphones. I got these based on reading and watching 100s of reviews and for the price ($450 through an affiliate link for HE6SE V2) I didn't think there was anything better at the times of purchase. Found a steal of a deal on a Focal Clear MG so that's on the way...

[@En_Joshi-Godrez]

There is a reason the Mk2 is so cheap.

[@Psybuster]

I daily drive the HD6XX, but i have the Focal Clear for my hype music and the HD800S for spoiling myself with slower music or games. For IEMs i rock the IE600 or 7Hz Timeless depending on mood/ what's closer.

[@ROCKSTAR3291]

Very solid collection

[@BTN454]

You should be very rich to buy those :)

[@Peter_H_Art]

Nice! I have the 6XX, Clear and 7Hz Timeless and love them. Can I ask how you find the IE600? What do you feel it adds to the collection that differs from or compliments the others?

[@Psybuster]

@@Peter_H_Art I actually love them with or without EQ. They are extremely comfortable and sound great at an acceptable price. IMO they are the best IEMs Sennheiser has made, but the 200/300 are probably better value

[@Peter_H_Art]

@@Psybuster Awesome, thanks for the quick response! I've been eyeing them up for a while as well as the IE200's. My wallet needs a restraining order.

[@inkpapers-1]

The HD600's will always be a standard for good reason!

[@sbwlearning1372]

Each to their own . I sold mine off after a month . The hifiman he400i and Philips x2 hr both sounded better to my ears

[@joecolchic1620]

mid cannons, no bass, veiled overpriced junk.

[@soulfulfool]

@@joecolchic1620 no bass and veiled so you are fan of V shaped FR, lot of junk in that department to choose

[@Tripokaridos22]

They are to me Vocal Kings , But 660s2 are better on almost everything... And before tell me anything about Deep on highs , In reali life 660s2 sound more clear than 600, but even if thats not truth... Why have HD 600 and eq low end and not Get 660s2 and EQ the deep in highs ( that is in purpose ) ? I think 600 is all about an amazing headphone that nostalgia works a lot, because imaging ,separation , soundstage, speed is better on 660s and S2 . The only reason for HD 600 are if anyone want them without EQ , these Vocals inside the bubble are just Phenomenal .

[@Tripokaridos22]

@@joecolchic1620 Mid Cannons have u seen any measurements ? Veiled the HD 600 ? Let me Guess or u are a Focal boy these Bright Heavy with Clipping problems boy, Or Beyerdynamic semi open Bright Cannons , Or Hifiman the ones with quality problems that sound metalic and unrealistic timbre that dont even know how to make a proper cable , that if u move a bit they change sound ... those that even if u put your hands close to them they change sound ? Those Headphones ? If any of these Companies make a Headphone that last time like HD6 series come again to tell us.

[@listener-reviews]

Honestly, I’ve found that no headphones/IEMs (especially the latter) are tuned satisfyingly enough to be my reference without EQ. The closest are the HD600 and MM-500 for me, but both have more air around 13-14kHz than I’d call neutral. Meteor’s mids and treble are *very* close for me as well, but it needs less bass IMO. Great watch tho! Not surprised the Bathys is the one you own 😂

[@deanfisher1656]

Audeze LCD 5 with Audio Valve MkII. ( will never sell and 20 years old). Smooth and wonderful mid tones …..jazz and blues. Utopia with LTA MZ3. Wonderful Top to bottom and great low level resolution. All genres but great on intricate guitar works and vocals. Love the bass on out of these. Natural and layered. Both run through a Holo Audio May Dac. Sennheiser 800s through their 820 amp/Dac setup …..my office rig. Awesome all around and light on the head. Love headphone listening and am blessed with some great rigs. Enjoyed your presentation. Had the Senn 600s for 15 years….my son has them now and the Elears……both are huge sleepers and killer for the money. Run the Elears on an I phone with a dragonfly ….and wow. Happy listening.

[@PhoggHawk]

I don't own the Bathys, but it's actually my favorite Focal headphone after trying it out in a store in Chicago along with a few other Focals. For comfort, versatility and sound quality, it's incredible!

[@En_Joshi-Godrez]

So $800 for a headphone with less functionality and worse feature than a $350 is acceptable, but not in a IEM, where sound quilts is noticeably better? You need help.

[@hitmarkler]

HD650➡️Sundara➡️Hi-X65➡️DT770➡️Edition XS➡️LCD-X Lcd-x is perfect for mixing and mastering when equalized properly. From these headphones that i've owned it's the only one that can playback modern metal guitar distortion as it sounds in "real life".

[@bobsykes]

Interesting video, especially that both you and DMS own the new Focal wireless headphone. My current reference is the Audeze LCD-5 with the optional silver plated Audeze cable, Benchmark HPA4 amp and Benchmark DAC3, with Qobuz on Mac desktop and an Aurender hardware music server/streamer as a USB audio source. No EQ is possible in this chain. (I tried the latest RME DAC with its excellent internal DSP EQ, but the Benchmark DAC is way more revealing, transparent, and natural). I also keep my OG HD-600 for the exceptional midrange.

[@heltunikt]

I try to go for sightly different sounds, but not at the expense of enjoyment. My "benchmark" for a fun, dynamic, open back headphone is the Focal Elear with fenestrated Dekoni pads. When I want stay in that fun, dynamic space but need to go with a closed back option instead, I swap to the Sony MDR-Z1R. My go-to for an open back planar is the Edition XS. I love that thing and I find the bang for buck quite hard to beat. For noisy places that really require ANC or when I'm on-the-go, I use the Sony WH1000X5. I've held on to the Harmonicdyne Zeus (w/ Beyerdynamic EDT 990V pads) because it's just such a silky smooth delight to listen to. I'm curious about the Arya Organic and the HE1000 Stealth as my next step up in the planar department, but I haven't had a chance to sample them yet.

[@stevemurphyphotography9609]

For me, my reference headphones are the HD6XX and reference IEMs are the Etymotic HF5's that I have owned for 6 years. I do not have a fit issue with Etymotic and use them mostly now when I fly. I purchased the Truthear Hexa's a month ago and I really like them. As far as DAC/Amps, I am using a Schiit Modi/Magni stack on my desktop and for bluetooth wireless for IEMs, I use a Qudelix 5K.

[@mikafoxx2717]

How do the heads compare to the hd600's and etymotic? I was trying, with great difficulty to find an iem that will give me the HD600 tuning, possibly with actual bass as a treat. I don't out about the Etymotic series only after ordering the hexa. What's your thoughts?

[@mikelanier5617]

Hifiman Sundara, Focal Elegia and Moondrop Aria with RME ADI-2 dac/amp, Bluesound Node n130 plus a Schiit Lokius 😊

[@markusschulzbro]

Audeze Maxwell vs. Focal Bathys Comparison video please 🙏

[@martinfox2244]

I have had the latest Sundara for a while and think it is great. I purchased a 325X not long ago. It is great for vocals, more in your face and is great for the old time radio shows I listen to. Plus I appreciate the Sundara more when I switch back. If I were to upgrade I would consider the LCD-X based on reviews and I am sure there will be a different "sound" compared to Hifiman. But...the Arya Organic! IEMs and BT are merely convenience to me. I prefer over ear.

[@StephenMcClone]

I have a small-ish selection of headphones. And I kind of cycle through all of them slowly without using any EQ, just so I can experience their "flavor" of sound. I have an HD560s, DT770 Pro 80 Ohm, HE400se, Sundara, and a set of 99 Classics. I always seem to mostly alternate between the Sundara and the 99 Classics though. The Sundara sounds great for all the reasons they are known for, but I struggle with the comfort. The lack of a swivel means I get an uncomfortable amount of pressure just in front of my ears, and this has given me headaches in the past. The 99 Classics on the other hand are very comfortable and I like the warmer, more relaxed sound they have. But I don't like how closed off and isolated they make me feel. I'm just typically not a fan of closed-back headphones for that very reason which is irritating since the two most comfortable headphones I have are closed-back. As for what I use to power all these headphones. I have a Fiio K9 pro ESS. It's really nice, but I do wish it had more power. Maybe next time I get an AMP I'll find something with more power.

[@ARC87]

"Ease of use, form factor, versatility"... summarises what most people are searching for during these fluctuating times. Pretty surprised to know that the one headphone you own is wireless 😅. It seems the future of audio is going in that direction (aptX Lossless is already here), though hopefully they will enable users to replace batteries on expensive wireless headphones. Otherwise, they'll still be disposable luxury items. Thanks for sharing your insightful opinions.

[@fuffy442]

I did go through a phase where I was collecting headphones with a specific goal in mind. I am a retired symphony musician and was searching for a headphone which would replicate what I heard sitting in he middle of the orchestra. Sadly, nothing but the Etymotic ER series IEMs have come close. Perhaps this is because I am too financially limited. However, given that there are no reviewers who have my background and share my listening tastes and experience for me to rely on, I would need a moderate fortune to properly audition all of the available equipment.

[@michaelh9]

Wouldn't the issue be the recording ?

[@ConsecDesign]

the fact that the Bathys is the only headphone Resolve owns is the biggest selling point for me. I will be purchasing these when i go to CanJam SoCal

[@yannicktube]

saying it together with the UX3000 as a rival is awesome. I can't understand how something that good can cost so few dollars

[@yupanquid5538]

having bought the Bathys a couple of days ago, partly because of your review, i'm relieved of seeing it in this video. Lol

[@Nephilim-81]

Final Audio D-8000 (original) all the way. That headphone gives me such great insight into the music and my equipment for that matter. Can’t complain. It is a high price point I know, but it really is god tier listening for me.

[@amindamok]

I use the K701 as my reference point for other headphones. What I am looking for is soundstage and clarity. While the bass isn't exactly prevalent in them. It is there and I can hear it well into the sub bass tones. I recognize there are better headphones out there. But I have 1000s of hours of listening on the K701 and it helps me to hear what is different when I put on other headphones good or bad.

[@TheStudio520]

I once have 12 headphones and i was frustrated over so many different types of sound signature. Now i only want to keep my life simple and only keep 3. 1) Open Back : Focal Utopia 2022 - For House use 2) Close Back : Focal Stellia - For Office use 3) IEM : Vision Ears Erlkonig - For Travel use

[@NegativeKelvin]

So happy to see a shoutout to the mm-500, I absolutely love mine and got lucky that they fit my head ok. I’m surprised that hasn’t really been much review content on them. Any reason I’m particular?

[@chanmunphang8361]

Will the Moondrop Joker be reviewed?

[@skatter42]

Through my journey of wonderful world of head-mounted-speakers I've noticed I'm one of the lucky few chosen whose cranium configuration fits the Sundara and therefore have been in love with it every single day for the past 4 years. It is for me a reference with which I am most satisfied and it has not let me down yet.

[@taidee]

Don't worry Resolve, if you're not a "real boy" then the rest of us don't exist. On headphones I only have AKG K240 Studio and Sennheiser HD600, but on IEMs I have a lot, I like to sample different tunings and configurations just for the fun of it. Headphones tend to cost a lot more and take a lot of space while right ion my listening station/desk I have 6 consistently used IEMs, moved out and replaced from time to time.

[@matusjurcik6974]

Why the full size openbacks measure like shit compare to the iems? I dont talk about FR shape in general but more about ,,so many,, peaks or uneven surface, no smooth line of the FR...

[@thomaspitz302]

My headphone journey started with Bluetooth headphones, the first one was the KEF Space One Wireless, followed by the B&O H95 and the Airpods Max. In order to get better sound I sold the H95 for the Focal Bathys, which are my daily headphones when I need a mobile Noise Cancelling headphone or mobility. The Airpods Max I use only for movies with Apple TV. As I like the sound of the Focal Bathys very much I had the opportunity to get the Focal Clear MG at a good prize. At that time I started with looking videos, reading articles about harman target, auto eq and so on. So for me at the moment the Clear MG with EQ sounds very fine and I use them when I really want to enjoy music. My target in the near future is to test a planar magnetic headphone, maybe the Hifiman HE1000 V2 or SE.

[@jakealexander6046]

My reference point is hd650 and sony xm4. I don’t have a bright tuning preference. I prefer the timbre and warm sound of hd650 and for xm4 it is what sound you can get from commercial bluetooth. But i do like airpods and find myself using it more on the go than xm4s. But my fave headphone is Focal clear right now

[@Marian1st.]

My reference point? Don’t have one. My favorite energetic sound ? Grado SR 325s • Irreplaceable. My favorite Bluetooth? B&W PX8 • Could be replaced by B&O H95 My favorite in ear headphones? iSine 20 • Could be replaced by LCDi4 iSine20 could be my reference headphones too, since they sound the best out of all the headphones I own. My favorite relaxed sound? HD600 • Irreplaceable My favorite noise canceling headphones? Bose Ultra • Irreplaceable My favorite cheap headphones? HD25 and Sony 7605 • Could be replaced by many. My favorite all around headphones? HD660S2 • Could be replaced by HiFiMan Arya • Arya can be replaced by many, and those can be replaced by Focal Utopia and so on … My go to headphones? B&W PX8 with and without wire. My go to earbuds? B&O Beoplay EX My next purchase? Probably Grado RS1 or RS2.

[@joscallinet6260]

The over-the-ears open-back headphones I like listening to the most are my Meze Elites, which are very comfortable to wear for long periods and seem very balanced across the audio spectrum. I do not eq my headphones, but eq-ing them might be a technique worth looking into, since you yourself pay considerable attention to it. The question with eq-ing is: what kind of eq device should I get and where should I optimally place it in the audio chain: the digital or the analog section of my system? What do YOU recommend I consider getting for a quality eq component? I'm intrigued also by how consistently Sennheiser's HD 600 headphones have continued to hold onto listeners' high regard for them over the years - and your comments here about the HD 600 confirm it. I may well end up getting a pair of these headphones - if they're still available - to compare with my Meze Elites. Interesting also that you find the Focal Bathys noise-canceling headphones to be so useful and satisfying to you.

[@nikolaygramchev]

Hm, what happened to Elegia?

[@musicxxa6678]

HEK Stealth measurement and review ?

[@techsurvival101]

I used to use different headphones for different things, Drop PC38X for gaming, AKG K701 for music, and Denon AH-MM400 when I needed a more portable closed back. Then, a year ago I bought a pair of Hifiman Edition XS and EQed them with Resolve's settings, and since then I haven't used any of my other headphones. I like the XS better for everything I do, and I find them more comfortable, although the build quality leaves a bit to be desired. One day those new Hifiman Arya Organic's may replace them though, as they seem like a nice step up. Any review of those in the works?

[@ixoye56]

HD600 are my allround favorit, after EQ of course.

[@Ca11mero]

I'haven't found the optimal headphone and I don't think I ever will. To me, I just want a HD600 with deeper bass and more clarity across the board. Bright planars does everything really good except for most of the ones I've tried have had really spiky treble (hard to figure out how to EQ).

[@patandthecats5983]

I'm trying to decide on the focal bathys or bose qc ultra I'll go focal if the overall sound quality is much better. I use an older bose qc now.

[@nathanberger618]

I haven’t tried the Ferrum Wandla, but the HYPSOS/OOR I do have and they can power the Single Sided Mod House Tungsten.

[@FrankVila]

Resolve, do you feel the K371 sound more natural than the DT700 Pro X ?

[@nixkdn]

Where are the EQ settings for bathys? Or any other ones.

[@dranek]

What happened to the Maxwells being the best wireless headphones?

[@danielgrubb9496]

Sennheiser HD6xx and Shure SE215. The two great sets of headphones money can buy lol... I think they are peak value prop and set the bar for me!!!

[@vancybergoth]

My absolute reference is the Abyss PHI TC, I use my Audeze LCD-XC for neutral evaluation and in the future I want to master my guitar tracks with it (as soon as I can master the instrument better) and the Airpods Pro are used largely because of the convenience factor.

[@stephenlegg262]

Saved up for Focal Elear. Bought on eBay. Left channel stopped working after a few months. Got in touch with manufacturer. They said they could replace drivers for £400. Very disappointed as I thought expensive headphones would be better made.

[@hartyewh1]

I have +40 headphones at the moment fron HD668b to LCD-5. I have them to compare and then measure to learn what I can and help others who can't do the same. I EQ with Oratory presets and maybe tweak a bit and I want to see how close I can come to those presets with my own measurements.

[@VicharB]

For me it is: Sennheiser HD600 & HD58x for wired; Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless & CX Pus SE true wireless; IKKO OH10 as IEM using portable DAC and for for a quick news check on my notebook I have Sennheiser CX 5.00. Oh, and for gaming it is Sennheiser Game One. Yup, I really like Sennheiser sound signature. :)

[@inaha7111]

How different is hd58x and hd600?

[@C0ffeeKing]

I want to start making audio reviews so this was very informative. I hope I’ll be able to give some value in this space

[@dentboxhero1717]

Got to be the NDH 30 for me and I'm surprised, confused even, why it hasn't been reviewed in this channel.

[@mkcraghead]

I have several pairs of headphones, but I would consider most of them consumer grade. The possible exceptions are the Sennheiser Momentum (original wired - at least I think they were the first iteration), then the first of the Momentum Wireless. I just got a pair of Sivga Orioles today, so no real impressions yet. I got the Momentums because I liked my more consumer oriented Sennheisers, but wanted something that I could commute with and use with my iPhone. The wired was too cumbersome with the wire and using an Oppo HA2, so I opted for the wireless. In the end, I didn't want anything to happen to my Sennheisers while commuting, so I fell back to my consumer oriented headphones that I wouldn't worry about and that were lighter. Not a big fan of IEMs. Now I don't commute at all. I'm intrigued by the Avantone Planar the II, but I have nowhere to hear them first. Thanks for the video. 👍🏽

[@reifortes_86]

Do you still use/own the Focal Elegia?

[@arthurhaywood2184]

This leads me to wonder. Are there any headphones that match your preferences without EQ??? If I were to make such a list, price point would be a major factor. If I had to pick just one headphone to use for everything, I think that I would pick the DCA Aeon 2 Noire. The only concern would be powering it properly when using as a portable. Yes, I have multiple headphones. Some are out of curiosity but most are out of a continuing education thing. My current favorites are the aforementioned Noire, the FiiO FT3 as a value proposition and my ZMF Caldera as an end game solution. I also love my Atrium’s. I don’t use EQ. I refuse to negate the natural response of a headphone. I find the difference to be fascinating. They can be akin to sitting in different locations in a hall or theatre during a performance. Are any of them wrong? No. Just different perspectives of the same performance!

[@ResolveReviews]

Every headphone in the world can be improved with EQ. But there are also many that are totally enjoyable without.

[@thomasvullings97]

There is no "natural" headphone response. All headphone have eq in the form of filters sets in the headphone and hardware eq like foam and other materials. Your headphone will always be eq'd by the manufacturer, you just erroneously believed thats the perfect sound profile for you. What you're saying is fallacious and based on objectively false superstition. Not acceptable.

[@ResolveReviews]

@@thomasvullings97 While I agree with the spirit of your point here, this is kind of a semantic argument more than anything. It depends how you define 'Equalization' and 'natural response', because if we're talking about 99% of passive, wired headphones, they do not use even analog tuning filters. So we could say the natural response is in the form of its acoustic performance in given conditions. That is... I imagine what you're describing when referring to 'hardware EQ'. But with that said I don't know anyone who would refer to it like that, since equalization is typically something that's done after a headphone's acoustic tuning is complete.

[@StartCodonUST]

I have two over-ear headphones: my old Sony WH1000-XM3 and my Hifiman Edition XS, neither of which "neutral" to my ears. However, I consider two of my IEMs to be "neutral" reference points to me: the Truthear Hexa and the Moondrop Quarks DSP. But for bass texture and detail, I find that the Simgot EA500 sets a high bar at a low price despite its actual bass level being much more subdued.

[@syanhc]

I enjoyed this video quite a lot. I have the Qutest and Mojo 2. The budget CHORD dacs…agree on the HD600. It’s just a benchmark headphone. I own one too…I have different headphones for different music or different takes on the same music.

[@CaptnKrksNippls]

The hd600 is still just too shouty for me.

[@anatol1204]

Arya organic will be another option too ?For me items are better for this job but the problem is how we perceive bass in comparison with the over ear ones.Bass straight frequency graph from my experience isn t equivalent to the bass you perceive from a linear bass over ear headphone.This needs time and experiments to find out the real matching but once you achieve it I think you can probably find iems that sound close to susvara LCD 5 with mutch less money and greater portability usability..I think in the near future we will get there at some point

[@Autodriveband]

I have a HD600, Sundara, SR80X, Moondrop Aria and Kuba Disco. Most of them have a reason, but SR80X is just because hear a lot about Grado and had the curiosity to know how it sounds.

[@quackgarage9551]

Any particular reason why you keep a K371 over a K361?

[@gavinmiles2680]

3rd gen Beyerdynamic T5 (3rd gen T1 is meh, but the T5 is magical-- excellent imaging and soundstage for a closed-back headphone. impressive dynamics and punch), IE 300 for convenience, and a 7hz Timeless (I just wanted to get a planar to see what the tech was like). Schiit Modius and Magnius combo for dac/amp and a fiio btr5 for on-the-go listening. I want to get an over-ear planar headphone at some point.

[@YTHandlesWereAMistake]

As for etymotics, have you tried the pink foam tips available on their website as after-market? They're the smaller size, so should fit the in-ear canal better and allow to listen for longer. Only issue is, you do need to clean them often, and even if you do, for daily use they last like 2-3 months at best at which point the foam hardens too much to bear and starts to hurt on insertion / taking out, at least in my case. And yes, talking / eating with them is a huge no-go, or it will hurt as well.

[@twraia]

Are you guys planning to review the new-ish Sony MDR-MV1 monitor headphones?

[@tumags]

how about a focal bethis for gaming? competitive?

[@revm3_]

Do have a 560S, 650, 660, 800S, should probably add a 600 but will sell the 560 and 660 to do so. By far the least used. I like the 560s tuning but it sounds blunt and not as detailed as the rest of the Senn range, make sense giving the price. Focal Celsetee, DCA Ether Closed 1.1, Kennerton Thridi, Kennerton Magister Pro. Same reason. They all sound different. Still wanting to look at some HiFiMans and Focal open backs. For IEMs UE900 from 8+ years ago. Got a pair of IE300s 2 years ago. More to try at some point.

[@MykeBinaryMan]

Do you use the Meze 99 that is sat on the shelf or is it just dressing? It's a very nice looking headphone so can understand if you do.

[@cribuj]

No Koss pro4s ? How come ?

[@JMC1992]

What are the best budget PORTABLE headphones for punchier bass and good mids when listening to rock and metal? I have seen people recommend Focal and Beyerdynamic 770s but very little otherwise for budget PORTABLE.

[@carminedesanto6746]

Sen’s 650’s and Moondrop Variations for on the go …I’m thinking of LCD-X as my endgame .

[@Peace_Guard]

Ferrum stack should be a nice, significant improvement sonically, while offering a great form factor. Among ss hp amps probably only Bliss better as an allrounder, but noticeably higher price and worse form factor. Among DACs a slight step up in price to get Spring 3/Yggy/Venus 2 would be better sonically, if not for the form factor again.

[@nickdual]

Can you record sounds from these headphones? I can't understand what you said:"clear, tremble.."

[@thecardoski]

I really enjoy my Elex, for e it works on any genre. looking to try something else now, any iem that compare to the Elex or are in that tier? I have the 7hz timeless, like it, but would like something more holographic.

[@Dicloneus66]

Please consider TAGO STUDIO's T3-01. It's becoming the next standard among engineers and musicians in Japan.

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

I'd like a (slightly) warmer/smooth sounding (good) open back headphone not costing more than a hd600. Any suggestions?

[@Ryan_3gRi]

Anytime about reviewing the Shure Srh1540?

[@mickouzz]

So I was wondering, you guys talk a lot about EQ in the reviews but for the average guy its impossible to EQ if you're listening to bit perfect mode, or maybe I am missing something... is there anyway to do it ?

[@ipressdatofu]

I know they are completely different products, but fidelity wise, do you prefer the Maxwell or the Bathys?

[@stevenj2380]

Always valuable info. here though already spent my money. Over and over. Qualities of recordings make or break what I hear. I wanted another IEM (with already a Westone and a 1More) so iI got a so-so reviewed Fiio FD5.

[@juhan9117]

Can anyone explain what the difference is between the elear with the utopia pars and the elex? Are they virtually identical?

[@RamonGarciaPerez]

I checked all links in the description looking for the Bathys EQs, would you please provide the EQs link?

[@ResolveReviews]

it's the first link.

[@Drewsterman777]

I've tried quite a few headphons and I find the Sundara to be the sweet spot audio wise. Unfortunately, I find them uncomfortable to wear and had to return them. I've tried DT 880, 990 and 900 pro x. HD 560S Sundara and Edition XS. K712 Pro Just ordered the HD 600. My biggest issues with headphones is the comfort. I wear a size XL hat and have big ears that stick out. I can't wear headphones that put too much pressure at the top of the head. Every headphone I've tried either has too much clamping force or creates a hot spot of pressure on my head or squeezes my temples and ends up giving me headaches. I've been using the Antlion Kimura Duo for everything because they sound decent, have a mic, and don't cause any discomfort. If the HD 600 don't work for me then I might have to stick to IEMs just due to comfort alone. Looking at buying the 7Hz Timeless AE or the Kato for IEMs.

[@samza9622]

Headphones lose clamp force after awhile usually quickly.

[@cedricboivin9422]

The Koss KSC75 is my bang-for--bucks reference

[@Farpun]

How many DB's do you boost the bass on the HD600?

[@RobertAntonyJameson]

I own a dozen headphones and I still don't know what my reference point is. 😂

[@dongta911]

jut always wonder which mic setup are you using :)

[@axelfoley1768]

Dude, I have to ask, what is the video camera you filmed the vid with? It's great quality. BTW, the hd600 is a broken dog & should be deleted from the annals of history - it sucks.

[@junzhang2087]

When you talk about headphones, you need to talk about what amp and sources. My reference headphones are HD600 paired with OTL tube amp woo audio WA3, Topping E30 DAC. That’s it. Enjoy the music.