Aeon Closed X vs Noire - Best closed back under $500 EASY

[@DMS3TV]

Well 2 things. 1 I kept saying open X (lol), 2 I guess they’re out of stock now so my timing really sucks.

[@CesarFerrer]

man, the last 3 days I was violently looking for reviews on the aeon X closed, kept coming to your channel, joshua, cheapaudioman, iiwi, zeos, passion for sound, etc.... I wish this was posted saturday 😑

[@CesarFerrer]

well, lets hope for black friday...

[@matthewweflen]

@@CesarFerrer Drop has a pretty liberal return policy. Shoulda pulled the trigger!

[@CesarFerrer]

@@matthewweflen maybe in the future, I wonder how this compares to monolith 1060c

[@MichaelSidneyTimpson]

You had me at "Best closed back" until I read "for under $500"...oh well. Wish I could defend (or afford) spending that much. thank goodness for the 6xx...

[@Damien_N]

For me - as closed backs, the Aeon Closed X and the Campfire Cascade are the double act to beat. The Cascade is big bassy and fun, and Aeon CX is the more relaxed and refined listen, with a more neutral sound.

[@Harvester88]

I have the DT 177x, do you think the Aeon Closed X would be a good upgrade path from them ?

[@Damien_N]

@@Harvester88 I’ve not heard any beyerdynamic headphone, I’m sorry I can offer any opinion there.

[@MananaMan]

Hey so I'm actually looking to upgrade my closed back from a m50x to either the Cascades or the Aeons, is the increased cost of the cascades worth it or is it just personal preference and which would be a more comfortable headphone for all day use. Kinda leaning towards the cascade because they look so much more handsome than the Aeons IMO. If you have tried the ether CXs that would also be a cool comparison.

[@cine-ish]

@@Harvester88 Anything is better than beyer ear cancer

[@Bootrosgali]

The words I want to see in comparison Aeon to Cascade is,, wider soundstage .. ?????

[@BudgieFan101]

I just Love how Dry the DC Noires sound. Sonic Bliss.

[@x32i77]

I am listening to my Dan Clark audio stealth right now and I am blown away

[@blue6point62]

Thanks for this great video. Just ordered the X. Closed, planar, 1/4" connection will compliment my custom DIY open, dynamic, XLR connection other headphone. Can't wait to see how this $500 pair compares to $750 in custom parts I assembled.

[@arthurhaywood2184]

Revisiting this video due to picking up the Noire a couple of months ago. What really sold me on the Noire was the instrument separation. Tremendous! I never tire of it. For me the choking point is the stock cable. It’s microphonic & holds the headphone’s performance back.

[@aight3565]

What cable would you pick?

[@arthurhaywood2184]

@@aight3565 I use DCA’s VIVO cable. It was included in lieu of the stock cable when I purchased my Noire during DCA’s 10th anniversary sale.

[@samafshar]

You called them “OpenX” several times which is confusing.

[@basmeer4807]

I was just about to comment the same

[@DMS3TV]

Yeah, I’ve been trying to catch up on making vids but need more sleep I guess.

[@VextonHersteller]

Exactly the video I needed I've been wrestling with finding a comparison of these two for weeks.

[@Blahmanwhysoserious]

props for the 21:9 aspect ratio

[@jonathanluttrell1380]

Solid review! I love my Closed X's! I see your Noire have the flaking paint. On the Head-Fi forum, DCA said that was a manufacturing defect and the arms would be replaced under warranty.

[@alexihunt101]

Are the new batches likely to fault? as that gimbal arm is a red flag for weak points

[@jonathanluttrell1380]

@@alexihunt101 I'm not sure, but that post on Head-Fi was dated several months ago. So I'm sure it's been fixed by now. The gimbals are metal and are very sturdy. The gimbal attaches to a metal frame and the cover(blue part) is plastic. These headphones have very little plastic (headband adjusters and outer covers)

[@alexihunt101]

@@jonathanluttrell1380 Thanks for the info! Going to order my pair today :)

[@kafkaworkshere]

DMS makes some of the best headphone videos out there. HIs conversational style, his no-nonsense delivery, and his careful attention to detail are unbeatable.

[@POverwatch]

I picked up a basically brand new but used closed x from eBay for $350. I think I did a good job. Really happy with them.

[@lawpenner]

Same. Just got Closed X for $350 off ebay in mint condition. In love with the smooth detailed sound

[@RR-ok4wz]

I'm glad that someone with clout - asides from Tyll - finally gave these HP's the love they deserve. I see them getting overlooked on so many forums. I absolutely love mine and despite having better HP's in my arsenal, I don't think I'll ever give my Closed RT's (essentially the same as the Closed X) up. I just wish these were a bit easier to drive and that the earpads lasted longer - those are my only two complaints about them.

[@cbassplissken]

Former owner of the Aeon 2 everything he said is pretty much spot on. If you value dynamics and don’t like overdamped headphones these won’t be for you…full stop. Also any of the filters will start to kill the detail. Would still take the Aeon over the Elegia even at the adorama price.

[@Sun-ng5ie]

im sorry what do you mean by dynamics

[@cbassplissken]

@@Sun-ng5ie Dynamics is the volume of a sound note. So songs that have soft passages and loud passages and hearing the difference. Versus the whole song being the same volume. Listen to Mountains by Hans Zimmer beginning to end and don’t touch your volume dial.

[@Sun-ng5ie]

@@cbassplissken oh! Thank you very much Yeah I would value dynamics I think it gives the sound more realism without good dynamics it would sound too fake for me

[@ahappycoder2925]

I find that they only lose dynamics on amps that cannot provide enough current

[@lawpenner]

Pretty detailed without filters in. Not sure what you're listening to with better dynamics and clarity. They sound pretty dang good to me. Biggest characteristic shortcoming I notice is a rounded smoothing on the decay of notes. ...It doesn't carry the same reverb & texture like my Sennheiser HD 650. Maybe this is what you're referring to when you say "damped"?

[@ResolveReviews]

The only one I'm also curious about at the price range is maybe the EMU Teak. I think that's around the price.

[@chefsteve8381]

And the fostex TH610

[@MrLimaify]

I would really like to see review of Teak

[@DenyTheZeitgeist]

I’m so excited for the Aeon X. First closed planars. Blunted sounds awesome. My ears get fatigued after a while with some headphones which is why the leather pads on my DT177X’s are my go to, but I’m pumped to get some DCA!

[@pjmacgyver85]

For the same price range what do you guys prefer for overall musical enjoyment, closed back or IEM? Let me give you 2 examples... Aeon X Closed vs Thieaudio Oracle (or Moondrop Variations) Aeon Noir vs Thieaudio Monarch MK II What would be the most significant differences when comparing IEM's to closed backs (soundstage, detail, etc...). Looking to invest on a new pair of either closed backs or IEM's but really can't decide what to choose (regarding sound quality). Will be powering them with a Chord Mojo. Thanks for any advices!

[@joecaner]

I auditioned the Aeon Noire's yesterday, and they are amazing sounding HP's. On the strength of that, I went ahead an ordered the Aeon Closed X. I sure hope I don't miss that 15-20% delta in performance too much because @ $399, I know I would miss the extra $500 it would take to step up to the Noire's.

[@blue6point62]

Are you happy with your Closed X?

[@joecaner]

​@@blue6point62 I've kept them. They are very comfortable. Sometimes close is not close enough, and sometimes it is. These HP's sound quality is adequate for my intended usage which is monitoring takes for acoustic instruments recorded with a mic. Good isolation, decent sound quality. I hope this helps you out. Kind regards.

[@barashkaz]

There was a significant upgrade in video quality in recent few weeks/months, looks like much better lighting? Maybe even camera, can see the bokeh nicely. Like the background music too.

[@joacwoot]

Been waiting for this one. Nice review :)

[@dapmitidp]

Thank you @DMS. I was not really liking the way my Aeon 2's were sitting on my head. that tip with screwing the head band should have been obvious!

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Nice review. Keep up the good work.

[@znoozaros]

Aeon X Closed causes my Motu M2 to go quiet on the right side randomly when there's been no sound output for a while. Only does it on the Aeon, other headsets I've had that have no issues include but not limited to: hd 560s, dt900 pro x, sundara open, sundara closed, akg k361, akg k371, sennheiser game zero. Turning the motu off or unplugging the headphones when the right side is quiet results in a loud pop

[@DMS3TV]

ive had that problem with motu interfaces and planars in the past. Same with Apogee too.

[@znoozaros]

@@DMS3TV glad to hear it's not just me. Any idea what's causing it? It's such a weird issue

[@handlemonium]

Good morning! 🌄 Any chance we'll see more IEM reviews? Cuz there's gotta be something that strikes a balance between the sound quality & comfort of the Blessing 2 Dusk and the affordability of the Moondrop Aria.

[@FivesCT]

Moondrop just recently came out with their new Kato's. Still waiting for Crinacle's full review of them. They're priced at $198, so I'm hoping they'll be a good balance of affordability and sound quality.

[@JTB--]

I'm intrigued by these after selling my LCD-XC because of their weight and comfort issues over long listening sessions. The comfort of these seem like a huge attraction

[@mustardchan4541]

How'd you like the sound of the XC? I have a pair of aeon 2 noires and was looking to add an XC to the collection I heard the slam & bass impact was better on those.

[@JTB--]

@@mustardchan4541 I was torn on selling the XC because they sounded great. Very detailed and probably the best Closed Back in it's price range. It was 100% their weight that caused me to sell them. They do have some nice punch and slam and good bass. Even better if you add a little EQ low end if you're a Bass head. Ear pads are also nice and comfy ear pillows. If Audeze can figure out a way to do a revision on the XC and reduce their weight like they've finally figured out with the LCD 5... I'd defiiltey buy the XC again at a lighter weight. If your neck can handle the weight of the XC which some will start to feel after an hour or so, then I'd totally recommend the XC. If you think their weight might be an issue I'd avoid them. Definitley not an all day type daily HP for me. More like a quick 1 or 2 hour listening session headphone. I'd also like to see them remove the Audeze logo across the cups if they do a revision on the XC. Logo was a Bad decision

[@animeshmeshram5997]

Would like to see you reviewing the E-MU Teak.

[@quincyfreeman2901]

Me and a friend both felt that vocals came across a bit odd on these. Specifically they seemed perhaps nasally would be the term? There was some sort of additional grain or something accompanying vocals… detail? Haha. Perhaps this stems from the elevated upper highs? They just didn’t sound very natural on most recordings to our ears. Pretty much everything else was great, though a bit bright without the filters, which is unfortunate because details do take a hit with filters added. I personally felt they were brighter than Sundaras (unit variation?). Overall, best all rounder closed back in the 250-500 range new, in my opinion. Cheers

[@unotsolucky]

Thanks for the review, I would like to see an updated take with the Ether CXs and these headphones. A under 1k Dan Clark Audio closed back roundup if you will. Cheers.

[@EazyRed]

Intro song is "Vale - by Dreem"

[@theodorezurla496]

The only issue with the these headphones is the difficulty to drive which is why the focal Celeste/elegia makes more sense closed backs imo are meant for on the go listening with small portable amp/dacs (use case may very)

[@matthewweflen]

They are not difficult to drive at all. I could not go above 75% volume on any device I threw at it - NW-A45 Walkman, Xperia 1iii phone, PC. A Portable amp/DAC will drive this to literally deafening volumes.

[@BobMarley-zu5sc]

@@matthewweflen Sufficient volume doesn't mean you're driving them well. A stronger amplifier definitely improves dynamics, soundstge and offers a more controlled/tighter sound. If you're enjoying yours straight from a pc that is fine but don't give others false advice saying it is sufficient because it is not..

[@matthewweflen]

@@BobMarley-zu5sc Please explain how using one device at 30% of its output (such as the Schiit Fulla E, which I have tested it on and use at my office) somehow creates better sound than using a different device at 60% of its output (like the Sony WM1A Walkman, which I use at home). Every electron in the universe is literally identical. If you can get enough electricity to a given headphone to reach your target volume, "more power" (AKA unused headroom) should have no effect whatsoever. It simply makes no sense. I suspect a lot of the "improved dynamics and soundstage and control" (whatever that means) that people report are simply the result of listening at louder volumes. When leveled with a dB meter (which I do) there is simply no difference between a device with lots of headroom and a device with little headroom. When I try to volume match by ear, I hear a difference between amplifiers. Then, voila, when I use the dB meter to ensure level output, the differences vanish.

[@BobMarley-zu5sc]

@@matthewweflen I don't need to explain, i've heard it with my own ears which i trust, nobody can tell me what i hear or do not hear. You can compare it to cars if you will, driving 60mph in a 2001 honda civic isn't the same as driving 60mph in a lamborghini.

[@kylemcdonnell86]

@@BobMarley-zu5sc the car isn't the amp, the car is the headphones

[@kermitpurcell6432]

Love the video! I've been on the fence with these and this really helped. Would a Topping DX3 Pro+ be enough to drive these?

[@jasonweaver3629]

Great review as always, thank you.

[@kevinmccarthy3753]

You have done really great reviews of both the open and closed back versions of these headphones. You obviously like both of them. I have both the hd600 and hd6xx running off a Schiit Valhalla and bifrost. I also have a Magni 3+ and midi stack. I know everyone has different preferences but which do you prefer, the open or closed version?

[@kevinmccarthy3753]

Just curious, does anyone have any recommendations between the open or closed versions? I would really like to know if the magni/modi stack would work with these well enough to justify the purchase of the headphone (open or closed) or should I look at upgrading the amp.

[@lawpenner]

​@@kevinmccarthy3753 reviewers tend to speak more favorably of the Closed X versus Open. For the fact that it's so difficult to find a great closed-back headphone, the Closed X seems like the smart choice. I have a Modi/Magni stack and was quite surprised with how well they played with these Aeon Closed X headphones. Sounds great actually. I say that because I don't actually like the Magni amp in general, as it sounds sterile with my Sennheiser 6-series headphones compared to better amps. But with the Aeon it works well. Has just enough power. Barely

[@NeilBlanchard]

For general music listening, do you have a preference between the Aeon Open-X and the Closed-X?

[@davidmason8212]

I didn't try the open ones but overall people got negative feedback regarding the sound. I tried the closed ones back in 2018 and for me I considered it the best closed back headphones I ever tried next to sony Z1R

[@NeilBlanchard]

@@davidmason8212 @DMS has a very positive review of the Aeon Open-X recently.

[@davidmason8212]

@@NeilBlanchard As always every person has his own taste in music so in this regard he is going to prefer specific kind of headphones. For example DMS prefer the lcd2c over the ananda. Every regular person I asked preferred the ananda over the lcd2c

[@NeilBlanchard]

@@davidmason8212 Okay, understood. I am just getting back into headphones, for listening to music, so I am learning the landscape, as it were. I now own Monolith M570, and have been looking for an upgrade. I have ordered the Aeon Open-X, and based on both DMS' and Zeos' reviews I think they are going to be great, for me.

[@davidmason8212]

@@NeilBlanchard I really! Don't trust these two that much 😅 Metal 571 Joshua valour Max setting These are the most trusted reviewers I have ever seen. Regarding Zoes has just take everything he said in grain of salt.

[@MasterOfInfinity]

Great review as always. What's your opinion on the Meze Audio Elite?

[@albertguev]

Thanks for your review. Have you heard the X00? If so, how does the closed x compare?

[@auzimatic]

I’m assuming with this recommendation that they are comfortable with glasses?

[@steven2640]

I may have missed it in your video but I take it that these two headphones have knocked off the Ether C Flow in your preferences?

[@b3asle551]

Great video. Can't tell you how helpful your reviews have been for me as someone just dipping toes into this hobby. I was hoping for some opinions - what would be the bigger/better upgrade, HD58x to Focal Elex, or DT770 Pro (250 ohm) to DCA Aeon Closed X? I drive them both with a portable headphone amp/dac (XP-2Pro). I generally use the Sennheisers for mellow music, vocals, rock, acoustic stuff etc and the Beyers for electronic music and hip hop. About a 50/50 split

[@kylemcdonnell86]

With a portable headphone amp? Elex is def the biggest jump

[@lawpenner]

Aeon Closed X better than those alternatives, and smoother to listen to than even your Senns. But you need an amp with some juice. Portable dac/amp may not cut it

[@dan110024]

I see you're wearing glasses! Probably about to grab a pair of the noires's.. How's the sound when wearing glasses? I'm just assuming the worst and expecting bass to drop right off with the seal being sacrificed..?

[@keeferdog5617]

All set to pull the trigger at $379- nope! add a c-note to that price. Still a no-brainer at $479.00 for the closed x? Thanks

[@Dibromatic]

I feel like I'm really getting my headphone legs. Was able to grab these on sale after hearing them. By far my favorite closed back.

[@mattstone5067]

Are you gonna rank these and the Open X in your spreadsheet? Do you prefer the Open X or Closed X? How do they differ?

[@DMS3TV]

soon yeah. I like them both, open X is warmer with smoother treble. Closed X is mostly neutral with a sub-boost.

[@gautierbertin2726]

Thx for your video. I love Techno music, do you think this headphone do the job ?!? If not, how closed back do the better please ?!?

[@thelastrhino2581]

Nice review. BTW - the "oi" in "noir" is a diphthong in French. So the entire word is pronounced as one syllable.

[@basmeer4807]

What's wrong with "nowhare"? ;-)

[@thelastrhino2581]

@@basmeer4807 It ends up being two syllables and that's just not how the French word is pronounced. It's absolutely fine, because you are not a French speaker, was just providing a bit of advice since he really seems to like the headphone and might want to know how it should be pronounced. The "oi" sounds like the vowel sound at the start of the English "why".

[@DMS3TV]

My southern accent cursed me to say it this way lol

[@thelastrhino2581]

@@DMS3TV Now that you put it that way, it does have a nice feel about it with that southern accent. :)

[@kerryvanderkamp5051]

I wonder how Dan Clark pronounces it? My money is on DMS’ pronunciation. 😁

[@goldfish1954]

Hi, just got on this video. I have a pair of Meze 99 Classic closed (like them) and wonder if Aeon Closed X would be worth the investment for an upgrade at decent cost?

[@BrendanRC]

Love the channel! Would love to see a video oriented around the best travel headphones. Whether its a tier list or best under whatever value. I know theres videos out there, but I really trust your opinion and would like to hear your thoughts! My Bose qt 35's just aint cuttin it anymore.

[@hoomaneru]

I think these headphones should be a huge upgrade to Audio-Technica MSR7 with a reasonable price. Long time I was searching and finally I think found the answer.

[@bengg6772]

Hello Thank you for this video ! How does they compare / compete against the Focal Celestee ? (the celestee now has close price to the closed x) Thx.

[@pistolero2k9]

What has better bass and overall sound for Hiphop and electronic music, the focal clear/elex or the noire?

[@DMS3TV]

Noire for sure

[@masterxyr]

superb video as usual. Really enjoy your work here :) If you get the chance to read this, which mods did you do on the M1060C, and do you still enjoy them?

[@DarkPa1adin]

looking forward to your review of Focal Clear MG!

[@ricardoj8860]

If you forget about price what do you prefer ether cx or aeon noire?

[@chefsteve8381]

The fostex TH610 is also a great value closed back headphone

[@scottgood2469]

@DMS3TV - did you try either with the THX Onyx dongle DAC? If so can it drive them w/o issue?

[@Danlikescheesteaks]

How do the Aeon closed/open X compare to something like the DT 1990? Primarily detail retrieval. Curious

[@The_Hipster_Cow]

Do you plan to review the Grado Sr-60X and 80X? I know Z said he sent them to you, was wondering how they compare to the 325x.

[@ahumblerequest5222]

I just noticed you mic sound is too clean and perfect.

[@disciple777]

Nice review! How would the Aeon Closed X work and sound using the Schitt Magni and Modi set up?

[@lawpenner]

I typically find my magni amp to sound sterile. It's not my favorite, but was surprised how well it did play with the Aeon closed x headphones. It is a good pairing

[@ik1llpeeple4fun]

Can you offer any opinion as to how good the closed X can be for gaming?

[@OneOfTheLostOnes]

is this a reupload? I feel like i've seen your review of these headphones before. EDIT: I may be confusing these with the OPEN X

[@DMS3TV]

I reviewed a handful of other Aeon headphones, but this vid is new

[@ElvenSpellmaker]

Have you finally tried the DT177X GO?

[@arielext]

how do these compare to the Ether CX? great video for the "open" closed X :D

[@KCC46]

DMS is comparing to the Noire but the Aeon Closed X is more or less exactly the same as Dan Clark's official branded Aeon Flow Closed Retuned (RT). It's a bit more expensive than the Drop sale price right now but performance is the same and it's still less expensive than the Noire. I really enjoy my Aeon Flow Closed RT. It's good stuff.

[@DzejSiDi]

Personally I found Aeon Noire sounding noticeably better with more juice on balanced cable - so IMO with just decent AMP you will pay full price for 90% of heaphones' capabilities.

[@stuka78]

Noire, would it be upgrade from Argon mk3? More than Closed X?

[@abc123s100]

I think you'll find that both DCA headphones are going to have a considerably different sound signature compared to an Argon. Both have noticeably better technical performance with a more neutral tuning, more so on the Noire. If you want an upgrade that still has a similar sound to the Argon, then I'd look at another model from Fostex or for better technical with EQ, a closed back Audeze LCD (these weigh a ton though)

[@lukeizze]

DMS When are you reviewing the RME ADI 2? You said you would be reviewing this months ago bro?

[@rawrj]

Thought about snagging the closed x for 379 just to see how they were, now I'm regretting passing. Oh well, they'll be on sale again.

[@jamesbittle2138]

They are now available for pre-order.

[@erichagele]

Great review! I own both and really like both. How does the Noire compare with the Ether CX closed?

[@erichagele]

@@misterfinerthings I would say both. It is a clear upgrade in terms of sound quality. It is noticeable. They sound more detailed. But the biggest advantage of the Noire is they come tuned to the Harmon Curve so the bass is boosted a lot more than the X. It isn’t overly boosted, just the perfect amount. They are the real deal. You don’t need any bass boost or tuning, out of the box they sound perfect. I actually sold all my other headphones because they are so good. I don’t use anything else now. They are expensive but I highly recommend them.

[@erichagele]

@@misterfinerthings Good call man! If you have the money, I HIGHLY recommend them. They are excellent cans. I ordered the either CX Closed, Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro, and DT 1770 Pro and the DT 177X Go from drop. The Noire are hands down the best out of all of them. The most detailed for sure.

[@aight3565]

What do you use to drive the aeon closed x?

[@erichagele]

@@aight3565 I use the iFi Zendac and iFi zen can as well. Little stack that sounds amazing. But you can drive them with just the iFi zendac. You don’t need the zen can. But the can provides more than enough power for any headphone.

[@spector175]

Do you think DCA Noire , DCA Stealth would pair well with tube amp like schitt lyr or mojo 2 or Cayin ru6 will be enough to run these?

[@bababaul9137]

How would you compare these to Neumann ndh20? I was recommended those specifically for their imaging and stage but waited for you to review these closed x, and now I’m tempted 😅 These are still not available on drop btw... :(

[@sauce.unlocked]

I'm in the market to buy some closed back planar magnetic. Are these better than the LCD 2 closed?

[@salvationsc4803]

Hello, I'm pretty new to the whole audiophile community, but I am looking to buy a new pair of headphones for gaming purposes. I was wondering if open-back headphones will leak into your mic if you have it placed on the cups like a modmic? PS: I do like to blast loud music while gaming ;3

[@gigabuyceps]

Edition XS better anyway?😮

[@da3726]

Would you recommend this over the Focal Elegia? I love vocals focused headphones, though not a fan of sibilance. I use a Mojo 2 to drive my headphones

[@lawpenner]

Yes, I had the focal elegia and while they sounded good the Aeon closed X are much more enjoyable to listen to without question

[@markhogquist2000]

I'm assuming these probably can't be driven to full potential from most daps?

[@fjongo1]

How do these compare to the modhouse argons?

[@flatmotion1]

I checked your channel for the comparison of the two together. I'm currently trying to decide whether to go open back or closed back. I mostly game on them 60%, watch anime and movies 15% and the rest is listening to music like bonobo, keeno, etherwood etc but also classic music and video game soundtracks and the occasional metal. I'm having a hard time deciding. What I currently have is a schiit hel2e with audio technica m50 (non x). Appreciate the feedback

[@lawpenner]

The Aeon Closed X appears to be getting better reviews than the Open X. The Schiit Hell does not have enough power to properly drive these planar headphones though. I have a Schiit Magni headphone amp with twice the power of the Hel and barely has enough juice to get the job done. The Magni actually pairs really well with these headphones sound wise, sounds great, I was surprised. I don't like how the Magni drives my Sennheiser 6-series headphones. The Aeon Closed X is so so much better than the Audio-Technica M50. It's currently my favorite headphone to date, besting my next favorite Senn HD 650. Only other headphone at the top of my list is the new Senn 660 S2, but waiting to go on sale.

[@flatmotion1]

@@lawpenner I went with the aeon 2 noire Fyi. Powering it with the schiit hel2e if working absolutely great, I tested it in store with a much bigger amp before I purchased. Really happy with it.

[@s12drifter]

I just purchased the hifiman ananda. I’m wondering how does the aeon noire compare to the hifiman ananda?

[@stevealter2581]

If I love my Aeon RTs but want to upgrade, would you suggest the 2s or the Noires? Yeah I've looked at all the curves, but want to know from a subjective pair of human ears. :-)

[@lawpenner]

DMS does a video review comparing those exact two headphones

[@mulciberus]

You mention the Fulla, but say that it doesn't have the power to drive either Aeon. There's a lot behind this question, but to get to the point: if one already owns a Fulla, do you think it could serve as a DAC, paired with, say, an IE Magni for an "end-game" stack that would accommodate a full range of headphones/IEMs down the line? Thanks for a great presentation, as always!

[@robg8963]

Many would say a Magni is begin-game, not end-game. A Magni may power the DCA's, but better amps and better DACs would likely provide larger sound stage and more detail retrieval for headphones of all kinds. For example, I was pretty surprised when I upgraded my DAC from Modi 3 to Bifrost 2, the sound become more layered and 3-dimensional. On amps I've owned JDS Atom, Vali 2, Lyr 3, and more expensive. For me Vali 2 is minimum starting point in sound quality, and a fair value before diminishing returns become a factor.

[@mulciberus]

@@robg8963 Thanks. Actually, I shouldn't have used the term "endgame", it just slipped out because it comes up so often in conversation. To be precise I should have said "what will hold me over for a good, long bit considering my current finances". But your point is well-taken.

[@matthewweflen]

I just got these cans and used a Fulla 4 to drive them from PC. The Fulla 4 has WAY more power than is needed to drive these at a literally deafening volume. I listened at the 10 o'clock position on the dial, and couldn't go above 12 o'clock.

[@lawpenner]

​@@matthewweflen that loud sound is called distortion

[@pb5335]

is the piece that connects the earcup to the metal strap plastic or also metal? looks like it could break easily?

[@wesleynoland1077]

Is there a decent DAC/AMP combo or stack for around $200 that is recommended for use with the Aeon Closed X?

[@lawpenner]

There are many, but you should up your budget to at least $250+. Topping, iFi, Canary to name a few

[@soulfulfool]

I wonder if they rly can sound better than my T60rp Argon, for sure they are not more comfortable than zmf suede pads + T60 is light

[@x32i77]

@DMS please review the Dan Clark audio stealth 🙏🙏🙏 You have to hear that headphone at home !

[@silvydb]

And already sold out XD i really do want these eventually. Ive been looking for a closed back to get me the feel of the 6XX cause it really was one of my favorite headphones. cant wait to try them out sometime

[@lawpenner]

6xx was my favorite headphone until the Aeon closed X come around and I like them better. But the 6xx still has the better attribute of Rich texture reverb. Both are great. One open, one closed

[@xminorthreatx]

TFW You wait impatiently for this review only to find that the Closed X just sold out...

[@DMS3TV]

Oof

[@TonkyTronicus]

I saw that coming so I ordered them 4 days ago. Already shipped :D

[@dasninjastix]

Is the Aeon X the same as the RT? I have and really, really love the Noire. I was close to the RT to save money but I figured I'd be upset if I didn't go full Noire. I do have an issue with the pads creasing and the fact that they're glued on is disappointing to say the least.

[@Tribe_E100]

Yes, the Closed X is the same as the RT.

[@DMS3TV]

Some RT measure differently but it could be unit variation

[@marlowe1537]

I'm not sure if they are 100% the same, but difference are probably minor. One thing to keep in mind, Dan Clark offers the RT with a no-cost option of a balanced or single ended cable, the Drop version comes with a single ended cable only.

[@WeebHub]

do you ever plan on reviewing the new airpods 3rd generation?

[@kaio.kenster]

Back for preorder on drop!

[@carlos_scm_silva]

would love to hear your take on the new bose qc45 and how it compares to the predecessor qc35 / rest of the noise cancelling headphone market

[@lawpenner]

QC 45 is still weak on sound quality. I bought six pairs of $300 range Bluetooth headphones last fall and the keeper was Bowers & Wilkins px7. very tight controlled detailed sound. Only caveat is they are tuned bass-heavy out the box and simply need to be EQ'd down a notch on the bass and then they come to life. Also earning high marks we're master and dynamic 65. Great Fidelity sound. everything else bluetooth including Bose 700 just don't cut the mustard

[@kristoffer8740]

You should try to get your hands on the 2021 Audeze LCD-XC

[@somefox949]

Very curious how that would compare to the Noire.

[@Nidus123]

Whenever these come into the discussion i tend to wonder why does noone compare them to the Ether C Flow/CX... ?

[@lawpenner]

Cuz that's a huge price difference

[@Blxnksy]

Listening to this review on my own pair of ACX 😂

[@stevenpreston5619]

Hi, want to know is Chinese IEM's any good? seen lots of them around but are they just cheap rubbish?

[@asdfgh-mr2lu]

VIDEO IDEA - headphone recommendations specific to genres. Like, most headphones are horrible for metal and rock music.

[@ydid687]

catch up on your backlog and devote some time to update your google sheets rankings i'll eagerly wait till then

[@MananaMan]

Campfire cascade, vs ether cx, or Aeon closed x?

[@matthewweflen]

Getting my own pair tonight or tomorrow - but they're sold out on Drop now!

[@manhealme]

So basically the Aeon X are Drop's versions of the Aeon RTs?