Beginner audiophile setup | headphones and DACs! | Mark Ellis Reviews

[@moondragon5630]

When i got myself Sennheiser 6xx and started to listen, i was blown away, no muddy bass, just pure enjoyment. The bass hits when it should and stops when it should. Going back to my pc speakers and gaming headsets is no go. I also do have xm3 and while they are good to take with you. I just dont think its a good sound.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Game-changer, right?

[@hanfpeter4190]

exactly what i think about sonys, though their sound isnt audiophile its still fun to listen to and their incredibly convenient to travel around with them due to insane battery and very nice anc

[@flabbybum9562]

Congratulations on explaining all of this so well. I'm a newbie to quality audio, and this made more sense than any other video I've watched.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Awesome, thank you!

[@bestvapor1136]

@@MarkEllisReviews Mark, I second that comment. You did such a phenomenal job! I too am brand new to this audiophile world and I feel like you just gave me what I needed to get started. Will definitely be watching more of your content!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

@@bestvapor1136 That means a lot - thank you!

[@dylon4906]

11:09 it is so true that it's a rabbit hole. I started looking into headphones to replace my aging turtle beach gaming headset. I didn't want much just an improvement to my not even expensive gaming headset. my budget was at most 100 bucks but after doing a lot of research, experimentation, and buying and returning headphones I finally ended up with beyerdynamic dt 990 pros for 180 dollars and I'm likely going to buy an external dac/amp for at least 60 dollars. it's still pretty budget as far as audiophiles go but the most important thing is that now I have a lot more ear for the subtleties of my music. can't tell if it's a good thing because of toll it's taken (and probably will continue to take) on my bank account but hey, at least my music sounds glorious

[@qupeter1224]

for $100, get apple type c / lightning to 3.5 and get a 9500/9600 and you will be happy

[@Levnyan]

Sennheiser HD560S has done me good since I bought it on sale for 80-90 bucks last year. I use it with an antlion modmic usb and it's worked amazing for me for all of my needs

[@DanielLundh]

I had a similar revelation when I bought my first "audiophile" headphones, the Hifiman HE400i. I bought them used (they have since come down in price to something similar to the Sennheisers you use), I'm more of a casual listener but I have fallen into the rabbit hole anyway and have upgraded headphone amps and DACs along the way. Great video!

[@Sweet-Vermouth]

Do you have the HE400i with the SMC connector or the regular headphone jack?

[@monstamac2005]

Love my planar magnetics have the HE400i and the HE4XX.

[@DanielLundh]

@@Sweet-Vermouth Mine has 2,5mm jacks.

[@2134yanto]

Excellent video. Just as an update, Apple Music IS lossless and with quality up to 24/192. Minimum is 16/44.1 ALAC ie CD Lossless quality. It’s actually extremely good

[@wyattandwill12]

I was gonna post the update as well - current options for the lossless files are ALAC up to 24-bit/48kHz then high-res ALAC up to 24-bit/192kHz

[@IShipley5]

You have made my day!! I never realized about the quality of sound controlled by the app, so I went into my spotify and changed it to very high vs low it comes in without random stutter or cutting in and out. Thank you!

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

true its why wasapi windows are actually best settings, too bad the (free) players are kind of inadequate for highends

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

they still great though, used mpc foobar for like forever, although the true/retail quality might differ

[@benkeen]

Always a good tip to go for headphones from the music production market rather than consumer or fashionable products. Sennheiser and Beyer Dynamic are a good starting point. More money on the sound rather than image and marketing.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

True, Ben. But there are some superb cans in the other bracket, too.

[@rags015]

I am the proud owner of the following AKG headphones: K240 MII, K371, K612 Pro, K275, K245 (open/semi-open), K175 (On Ear), K92, K182. In addition I’m also an equally proud owner of the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 ohms, DT 880 Pro, DT 240 Pro, and the DT 990 Pro!!!!! As a classical music lover I love my Beyerdynamic and AKG headphones!

[@InTeRnaLPr]

If you had to choose between the DT 770 PRO and the AKG K271 MKII, which one would you pick?

[@rags015]

@@InTeRnaLPrThe DT 770 Pro for sure. Go for the 80 ohm version!

[@Ducatijayv4]

This was the best comparison between consumer and high end I've ever seen! I was searching what the difference was for few days, thanks for the amazing review, subbed 😃👌

[@1989gem]

This video was really interesting; it was nice to hear about the basics, as there are a lot of videos that come across as being quite stuck up & don’t actually explain anything. I got the trial of Amazon HD, however I’ve just got “normal” headphones (decent but not top of the line) & I couldn’t hear any difference, so it would be interesting to hear, using a set up like yours.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks! I think the fact I’m far from an expert helps there! I’d 100% recommend an amp/DAC/headphone setup to get the best from it though.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

I think the fact I’m far from an expert helps, there! Definitely recommend investing in a little setup like mine to get the most from it, though.

[@KeithBonedoc]

Add a headphone Dac (like a Dragonfly red or black if that’s in your budget) and you’ll be blown away with the difference.

[@michaelhunyadi5087]

Thank you. Just taking the leap for quality headphones. Your video makes me even more excited.

[@NegativeLegend]

Great video. I only need to upgrade my headphones to complete my audio setup but I was wondering if it was worth it. You paint a great picture that other videos really dont.

[@FatNorthernBigot]

ifi DAC + Amiron wired headphones + Tidal for me. I'm very happy with my choices. The law of diminishing returns hits hard very quickly with more expensive gear. Great video! 👍

[@k3iler05]

Hi. Which IFI dac do you have? Also looked up the Amiron headphones and they look great. Extra points that they are made in Germany. I would like to get into good audio and I'm looking for a decent mid tier headphone set up. Can't have speakers for now. Budget would be 1k USD for the setup but can strech it out to 1.2k if need be. Care to share any suggestions? Thank you

[@j.d.4697]

One major misconception I also fell for for a while is that a DAC/amp with too little power for a particular pair of headphones would only result in lower volumes. In reality, it will also result in messed up sound. Sound distortions, compressed sounds, crackles and pops, lots of bad attributes of which some will be very subtle but make you feel unsatisfied with the sound.

[@tuckertech]

I also have a headphone addiction. I have the Fiio K5 pro it’s a combo dac/amp. I like it a lot. It’s powerful enough to power my Beyerdynamics and Sennheisers.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

It's not a bad addiction to have ;)

[@hugolosada]

For what it’s worth, do try to get your hands on a Grado. Of all the entry level cans I’ve tried, they can give you the most unique (and IMHO enjoyable) listening experience. Many audiophile headphones (specially Sennheisers) are too reference/flat for me and become boring quite fast. I’d like to hear your thoughts after you try any Grados such as SR60 or SR80.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

I have my eyes on them...

[@endody9519]

I use this exact combo for a few weeks now: HD560S with Zen Dac V2 and Tidal. For around €300 this sounds awesome. Can recommend it to anyone. And the truebass function on the zen dac really makes everything better on the hd560s in my opinion.

[@north08]

Add the iFi Can Amp to the mix, use the 4.4mm interconnect and cable to your headphone and you’ll notice it go up another level.

[@retrosai]

@@north08 Connecting a non balanced headphone (like 560s) to a balanced audio source using a 4.4mm adapter can fry the Amp and potentially damage the headphone. On the other hand, using a balance headphone and connecting it to an unbalanced (using adapter) or balanced audio source, both is fine.

[@Gwinter452]

How is the Zen Dac powered? Do you plug it into a wall/power supply, or is it powered straight from the device you play music on?

[@endody9519]

@@Gwinter452 In my case it’s powered through USB via my PC. But it has a DC connector as well so you can also use a power adapter (not included usually i believe) as well.

[@Gwinter452]

@endody9519 Thank you. All this technical stuff is confusing, lol. But maybe one day I'll splurge and give it a try. For now, I'm thinking of purchasing the M4 headphones... I'd still use them wired (usb-c) for the best quality.

[@louisantonio2462]

I am a beginner in all this as well and I would probably stay that way for a while but my personal setup would be the Hifiman HE400SE paired with the Ifi Zen Dac. They are very competitively priced but still performs very much on par with the 560s I'd say. Heck, I do think I prefer the 400SE after demoing the 560s at the audio shop the other day. But when it comes to these things I recommend demoing it for yourself if possible.

[@callumelcombe3703]

Nice to see some content from someone else new to the audiophile world. I'd definitely recommend trying out Qobuz for a streaming source, arguably better than Tidal.

[@brychaus]

I really liked this perspective on these HD-560S headphones. I've been worried about them being too analytical, but it looks like I shouldn't worry about that.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Don’t be 😊

[@hi-fi_phile_hunters]

Zen dacs are great, but I think too many people overlook analog systems that use small tube amps to power headphones. I do highly highly recommend checking out the Little Dot mkII amp. The way this would work is it allows you to use a mixer to connect things such as a turntable, CD player, cassette and even a direct hookup for your computer through the headphone jack. The warmth you get from analog is insane and it feels much more natural. As an audiophile myself, I prefer my analog setup vs the digital one. Ear fatigue is real and digital signal can really boost ear fatigue. Side note, love those Sennheisers, those are absolutely fantastic as entry level!

[@cassiecat7038]

I’m just new to audiophile headphones and tried both the dragonfly cobalt and the Chord Mojo amp/dacs both very good

[@maurycyzych3129]

Sennheiser HD560s sound really good paired with Dragonfly Cobalt.

[@JustLearning]

Glad your trying out HIFI stuff. I recently got started. First I bought a Fosi DS1 Dongle ($70) and then I purchased Fiio BTR 7 ($200) that can be used tethered to an iPhone or device or you can use Bluetooth. And the Bluetooth sound great! I also have a Sony MDR 7506 that is closed back and does not insert a profile except how the audio was recorded. And I just bought a pair of Sennheiser HD 660s. The sound is great and loud like I like it. I am trying not to go down the HIFI rabbit hole and buy more stuff. But I am eyeing a DAP (Digital Audio Player) where you can store your music (FIIO M11S). But I am trying to wait a spell before purchasing it. Thanks for you video and I am glad you are stepping into the High Audio world.

[@Core_VII]

I would recommend you stay away from "master quality" as MQA as it actually is as a very lossy codec unlike flac. MQA adds to much static and makes your sounds kinda mushy. While if you select Hifi ifs just a flac file Wich is better than MQA. You can find a great vid by golden sounds if your interested.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks for the info. Still learning plenty about this, and your advice helps.

[@tsohgallik]

Like for example using the Dragonfly Black/Red/Cobalt Then wondering if MQA is "really" the best?

[@Id0ntca7e]

You are the perfect person to ask something about it. In the last couple of days I used Tidal with a Fiio BTR5 bluetooth transmitter/Moondrop Starfields and Sony WF-1000XM4. Only on Tidal I have background noises on both devices with or without music playing. With my own flacs or other service have nothing like that. Does this have something to do through the MQA file format?

[@tsohgallik]

@@Id0ntca7e Are the earbuds set to Hear through, transparency, ANC? NC? Noise Canceling? Usually these wireless earbuds settings will create static

[@Id0ntca7e]

@@tsohgallik I just tested it again to verify. The mode on the XM4 seems nothing to change. It is also on the BTR5/Starfields combo that don´t have such a feature. The quality of the stream (normal-master) also don´t change it. But what I regognized by switching from Smartphone to PC, that on PC it isn´t that loud and disturbing like on the smartphone.

[@CoolGameKanaal]

I have one of the previous iterations of the Seneheiser headphone you showed, I have had them for about 10 years and they have survived alot of abuse. I'd trust Senheiser to do the same with the newer version, it's honestly a steal!

[@jandekker6008]

Oh dear. This has reawakened my inner audiophile. I've got Beyer Dynamic DT1350s, which I absolutely love. I do always wonder what open-back cans would be like, though. I got my Beyers when I still commuted, but I don't have that constraint any more. That DAC looks a sensible buy too. A friend let me try his Chord Mojo, which is more cash than this, I think, but it was awesome.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Haha - oh dear, apologies 😉

[@monstamac2005]

Open backs will open the soundstage and surround of the music mix, you will probably notice a bit less bass since it is not trapped in the cups but the flow of sound is amazing. You will be sharing the music with anyone in the room 😁

[@edwarddodge7937]

Great video! Another more affordable option for those who just want to dip the toe in audiophile grade audio is to get a pair of Koss PortaPros : $40-$50. You won’t get as much of the soundstage but it’s still a good introduction to what clean neutral headphones sound like.

[@OBOHYPE]

This was helpful, thank you Mark!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

No, thank you!

[@rdotskeven]

Hey from the very cold land of Igloos and Polar Bears aka 🇨🇦. LOVE LOVE LOVE this review into the world of Audiophile Music Mark. I am like you and have just gotten into this world of hearing music the way it’s meant to be heard. My first step into the world are the Worlds First wireless headphone with THX technology and are the THX Panda Headphones by Drop with dual AAA THX AMPS built into the headphones. They are absolutely phenomenal and they will soon have the worlds first APP with a headphone parametric amp to help tune them a little more to your liking. I too have heard GREAT things about the Senn 560s. I am now looking at buying a second pair of Audiophile Headphones (either the Sennheiser HD58x, HD6xx or Hifiman Sundara), and my first Dac/Amp combo. I was looking at the iFi Hip DAC which is a portable DAC/Amp combo so that I can use them with my Bluetooth THx Pandas but I’m kinda liking this iFI Zen DAC you have shown us. Now that you are here in this world, I’d like you to maybe go a little further and help more of us like you and I that are just entering this world. . A few videos that explain the terms that are commonly used, LOL at a few other options. You gav a great choice in the $300 range but maybe looking at the $400 and $500 range stepping up a bit more each time. NO ONE else is doing this and personally I think I it would be popular. Once again, thanks for this video and I’m sure I’ll see in some more. Until then, stay safe and happy listening 🎧. Kevin 👊

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Love this comment - thank you! I think you've got some solid ideas there, and they're similar to my own. So, stay tuned ;)

[@rdotskeven]

@@MarkEllisReviews Thanks Mark, I’ll be watching to see what’s coming.up. I’m just learning and a lot of the terms like wide sound stage vs closed, what’s a DAC, do you need it AND the amp or just an amp or. . . . 🤷🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️. Then another thing I’m still trying to learn is the difference between something like the iFI Zen DAC you showed and a desk top tube amp. Looking at a graph and understanding it for if you want to tune / EQ your own headphones. Where are the lows, the sub bass, mids and highs etc. Learning how to read them and knowing how you like your soundstage helps for when you buy another pair of headphones so you are getting something out of the box that’s better suited to you and your ears. It definitely is and has been a learning curve but your video was a big help. Thanks again and keep doing you. Stay safe and happy listening 🎧 Kevin🎗

[@MarkEllisReviews]

@@rdotskeven Thanks! I think there's lots of potential content there. I'll mull it all over :)

[@BillyKueekSG]

Thanks for the video. What you said in the first minute connected with me. Currently, I have a Sony WH-1000XM2, AirPods and AirPods Pro. In my cars, I listen to Mark Levinson in my Lexus and Bose with upgraded speakers in my GTR though the exhaust sound goes into the mix. I can tell all something is lacking, it’s not excellent sound. So, I am going to try better equipments to listen to. To start of, I am getting the FiiO BTR5. Headphones options by prices are the Philips Fidelity X1S ($127), Sennheiser HD599 ($199), X2HR ($245), ) or 58X (may not be able to get locally, around ($280). The cheaper options are Philips SHP9500 ($99) seems too sharp for me (from reviews), 9600 is more expensive than the X1R ($245 vs $127) so… what are your recommendations? These are Singapore dollars. I listen to a variety of music, classical, vocals, opera, Pop, R&B and lots of movies. I mostly use Apple products

[@billy120745]

As someone who is starting to get a mature headphone/sound game I appreciate this direction. Now if I can only decide on a mechanical keyboard...

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Funny you should mention that...

[@ProductivePM]

Just got the Keychron with brown switched, love the feel and the sound. Works great with M1 MacBook Air, iPad Pro, and work pc laptop.

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

lul, grab ducky or steelseries theyre great

[@KeithBonedoc]

Great review thanks. Now that Apple Music is lossless the difference is amazing. Although Tidal has some hires music I find the quality with lossless/cd is excellent. With an audio quest Dragonfly red and budget earphones like the sound magic E80’s I can’t believe how much better music sounds compared to my EarPod pros. The convenience of wireless earphones can’t be denied though. I also enjoy my Grado SR 60’s but my wife gets irritated when I don’t answer her. The transparency function with the EarPods helps then but you sacrifice sound quality obviously. The answer is to have several pairs of earbuds/headphones for different occasions. What was that you said about being a headphone addict…..

[@mikes6844]

At last someone reviewing reasonably priced equipment, thank you. 👍🏻

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Very kind, Mike - thank you.

[@antoinep9733]

Really enjoyed the video, you’re very good at what you do. As you say a set-up like that will highlight bad recordings and mixes, but even 320 kbit/s out of Spotify sounds better than on wireless consumer headphones. I trialled Tidal hi-fi (4 months free), but the slight improvement in SQ wasn’t worth the cost of the service in my part of the world.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thank you! And you’re right, it isn’t for everyone.

[@panzer3279]

Tidal MQA is actually lossy, better to use Apple music or other services.

[@drezzy5]

I never personally noticed a issue with mqa back when i used tidal. Would play out of dragonfly red and shure se846’s. With that said for half the price apple musics quality is just as good

[@davestevens4193]

A dedicated HP amp provides better control of the driver, as well as more headroom. Good video.

[@peat381low8]

the 560 S is so great. Most music I listen to is CD quality and only 44.1 hz 16 bit. And I love listening to the details every now and then since I am using AirPods Max for everything else. AirPods have spatial audio for wathching my shows and movies. But for a clear detailed audio from watching games or FaceTiming someone in a quiet room I’ll always grab the Sennheiser over any Bluetooth connection.

[@JohnRoss-t6p]

Hi Mark. I knew the audiophile bug would catch up with you eventually. No need to spend a fortune to get serious audio improvements and enhanced musical enjoyment. I have tried all the hi res streaming services including Apple, Amazon and Tidal. However for sheer musicality and serious engagement the Qobuz hi res service - in my opinion - is the best by a country mile!!!

[@stuclark5081]

Really nicely presented, unpretentious & 'to the point'. Every one of us has 'opinion' that is naturally pushed to a degree, even subconsciously but 'agenda' is very different & it's refreshing to have an overt explanation of a 'learning curve' rather that somebody being protectionist about previous years of listening. I am still leaning all this stuff, & will be forever & furiously haemorrhaging cash in the hope that will educate me lol. But I do it with a smile lol. Just to note....... If you want a really good very mobile option, the Dragonfly Cobalt into the Apple Camera adapter then into the iPhone is awesome when Streaming your Tidal. Thanks again, Subscribed. Kind regards.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thank you!

[@mikes6844]

I'm adding an additional comment as a thank you to Mark, I purchased the iFi pocket DAC. Weren't that impressed with Spotify high res as an input source - however most of my CD collection (remember those round silvery things) are stored on my Mac as Apple Lossless. Using my new M1 iMac (fab) I connected the DAC to it and the detail and definition of this source is quite revealing - not sure it would be up there with Tidal but for an old audiophile I'm happy with the extra the DAC gives me. Give it a try!!!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Awesome - glad you’re happy, Mike!

[@markaprill6501]

I cut to the chase…I got Meze empyrean one headphones and a chord mojo 2. I don’t care about upgrades, it just sounds good and you are done. Yes it was expensive but sooo worth it.

[@davidbock1801]

First-time viewer. Good video, man.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks, David!

[@markrichmond6860]

Thanks for a great video l have a very similar setup as yours. My headphones are sennheiser 599 open back my dac amp is ifi hip dac they both work brilliantly together. I would also recommend beyer dynamic dt 700 Pro although they are closed back they have a wide sound stage. I stream my music through amazon HD which is all CD quality. Sounds great to my none audiophile ears and it only cost about 300 pounds

[@AI-PhotographyGeek]

Enjoyed, I’m in somewhere close to your situation to trying out HIFI headphones and DAC. Certainly it’s worth compared to spending huge money on AirPods max!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@richardbuckingham4329]

Great review, very informative and nicely presented 👍🏻

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thank you Richard!

[@guinnessharvey4476]

Great video. So you didn’t use a streamer?

[@deadandburied7626]

Going on your recommendation Mark, I bought a pair of 560s. 👍

[@MarkEllisReviews]

You won't regret it :)

[@delpinsky]

MQA is a joke, as they advertised it as lossless, while it's not. I bought recently a pair of Beyerdynamic DT-990 Pro and I'm very happy with them. I just need to think whether to upgrade my Amp/DAC or not. I have an LG G5 Hi-Fi Plus which despite is thin, can handle well my 250ohm headphones, and also an old Yamaha A/V Receiver. I would be curious how much richer sound an Amp/DAC like the Zen DAC V2 would give me.

[@Levnyan]

I have the HD560S headset as well. I did change out the velour headband cushion with some pleather ones that were similar in size meant for another headset, but since it was adhesive it worked (Geekria Protein Leather Headband Pad Compatible with Sennheiser HD201, HD201S, HD180, Headphones Replacement Band, Headset Head Cushion Cover Repair Part (Black)). I replaced the earpads with some black and gold ones with coolgel padding. They get really cold if you drop some water on them, or if you sweat a lot lol.

[@Levnyan]

I did use super glue to secure the replacement headband tho. the adhesive was a lil weak

[@bentobox3140]

For any beginner about to spend on dacs and amps, I've tried a ton of the lower to midfi dac/amps. It doesn't really matter if it's burr brown, AKM or ESS. There's next to no difference. Zero difference in the AKM and ESS ones, mild difference from the burr brown (that's more to do with ifi adding bass boost buttons on their dac/amps). Between a 50 dollar megatron into a zen air can, and a 300 dollar FiiO K7 to the zen dac v1 into the OG zen can. There is ZERO difference when pushed through a HD600 headphone. Just buy something that works, has an easy to claim warranty, pre-outs for speakers if you have them and RCA outs to connect an EQ like the JDS Subjective 3. Or learn to use Peace EQ and spend hours tweaking sound.

[@rolfviehmann6240]

To be honest, I got a weird problem, and I don't know why. I bought the "iFi ZEN DAC V2" (basically the same as in the video, just the newer version) and the "Sennheiser HD 560S" (same as in the video) and really wanted to be impressed (the first audiophile hardware I ever used in my whole life), but ... These headphones sure sound nice, but not really better (according to my ears) than the consumer grade headphones I had before ("Sony WH-H900N"), bought in 2018. Just to point it out: They don't sound bad, and they are not defective somehow, but I just can't hear any meaningful improvement compared to my Sonys, even though the Sony ones are normal consumer grade ones for everyone, so not audiophile at all. And I even have the subjective impression that the Sony ones are more comfortable to wear, especially when listening to them for a long while. And they even got bluetooth and active noise cancelling, which is all quite nice. So, what am I doing wrong? Back when I bought the Sonys, I was absolutely impressed by the sound quality, much better than every other pair of headphones I ever used, but the Sennheisers don't give me the same feeling, more like a "eh, they are fine, but not really better IMHO". Not really the upgrade I was looking forward to.

[@fredeugineadomako7749]

Try to use them with high res music

[@rolfviehmann6240]

@@fredeugineadomako7749 OK, where can I find such high res music?

[@celestialbalisongs3651]

As someone who uses hearing aids I've been really wanting to get a set of nice headphones, since any audio I hear is slightly messed up just by the nature of headphones being an extra layer of microphones and speakers that the sound has to go through. But I'm worried that even if the audio input is better that the output from the hearing aids will be the same

[@6643bear]

Great and interesting video, I have ifi zen v2 dac and 560. Headphones and it’s a good all rounder , for general listening, I have 6xx with the custom cans bass mod with sound pretty good just a bit better than 560 , the 560 is a good starter headphones coming in about £130, good price point. The 6xx is really good price but at the moment the hd650 is at £229 with a great price for these headphones. Regards mark

[@monstamac2005]

Saw this video and would add like others, planar magnetic next. Warmer and a bit more bass with same clarity. For budget the Hifiman HE4XX or next level the Sundara's.

[@aawannaveed]

Very sound advice! Apple has since caught up with their Hi Res Lossless offer.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Glad you enjoyed it - thanks!

[@LewisVideoArchive]

Brilliant review Mark. I’m going to grab the 560s soon, do you think I’d need the amp to use them with my MacBook Pro?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thank you! And, yes, I'd recommend getting a headphone amp to get the best out of them. Try the iFi Zen DAC.

[@6643bear]

Great informative video, I use ifi zen dac , currently using Senn. Hd575 of which the Rotel a11 is driving well even if it’s 120 ohm impedance of the headphones , I use my zen dac phono o/p to amp. Like you I have a few headphones momentum 2 denon etc , now have hd560s and found to pretty good , and happy with them on your recommendation. Regards mark

[@josephkong7547]

Thank you for this Mark - did anyone tell you that your voice sounds like a very smooth DJ? BTW, did you find the Sennheiser HD560S lacks a bit of bass? It will be interesting to get your feedback on this as I found the Sony WH-1000 XM4 to be bass heavy

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Haha - thanks! I really like the bass response on the Sennheisers - it's more refined than the XM4s, as you might expect.

[@josephkong7547]

@@MarkEllisReviews thank you for the feed back with regards to the question on the bass response Sir!

[@ProductivePM]

Mark the timing of this is perfect. I am trying Tidal and Amazon HD. I want to try the iFi Zen DAC (based on your recommendation). I recently bought the Sony MK1000XM4's and wondered, for now, would this work well with the iFi Zen DAC directly plugged in. Also, have you tried the software called BOOM audio that gives 3D spatial audio? Thanks again for another great informative video . . .

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Awesome! I haven’t tried the Sonys through the iFi yet, but will. As for Boom I’ve used it for EQ but wasn’t that impressed, to be honest.

[@ProductivePM]

@@MarkEllisReviews Mark, you have pushed me down the rabbit hole . . . I bought the iFi Hip Dec (like the Zen Desk only portable so I can take it with the M1 MacBook Air). I just bought and am waiting for the iFi Zen Blue which will give my stereo streaming capability through my computer. it has a DAC built-in, but I may look to add a DAC to it. I am looking at also still getting the iFi Zen Deck for my desktop. I started exploring the whole HiFi Audiophile environment and you could just sink substantial amounts of money into this hobby/passion

[@MarkEllisReviews]

@@ProductivePM Oops 🙈

[@sumanth3036]

I am thinking to go with these things. Is the Zen Dac really good? Please help with your suggestion.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

It is brilliant.

[@mannykhan7752]

Good explanation Mark but personally I think the audiophile alley is one dark place and that once you go to, you don't wanna come back. I dont think that to enjoy music, you need to lose an arm and a leg in equipment to get the right sound. That's why I love Bose or Sony because I know that, although not perfect, they have what it takes to deliver a good sound and enjoy some good music in a single package AND have the convenience of having bluetooth for pertability.

[@coliningram6066]

Hi Mark. I've followed your content for ages. I'm about to bite this bullet. Are your thoughts about lossless entry the same as this video, or have other tech caught your eye>. Thanks. Keep them coming.

[@cedricw518]

Did you comparing using the 560s without the zen dac VS with the zen dac and was the difference very noticable? I myself bought a 560s last month and I've been loving the listening experience, but something tells me I still want to get the zen dac. How was your experience?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

I haven't yet, tbh, Cedric. I should do, though!

[@andreasschultze6644]

That‘s exactly the question I‘d have. Right now I‘ve got some dt880 here and they work straight from the mainboard as well as my marantz avr. Don’t know how much better they potentially get, when powered „correctly“

[@rajendrabiswas]

Love to know how to get Dolby or loseless audio’s in headphones

[@lilian896]

Thanks for info🎧

[@AndreaDiLiddo]

Great Video, If i may integrate: there are actually two main categories of non-consumer headphones: High Fidelty (like the HD560S) and Audiophiles. Audiophiles tends to be more focused on one aspect like Soundstage, Imaging, perfect treble, mid or bass region, Timbre, etc ect. High Fidelty ones just try to focus on what the artist wanted you to listen, so they don’t add stuff or change the response, like adding more bass or more width to the image. There are audiophiles headphones, like the LCD X, which are very focused on Bass response or the Sennheiser HD800S which have an incredible soundstage but lacks many other aspects (they have mediocre bass, for example). The point, i guess, it’s to know new stuff, experience it, and learn what you value most and like to listen to.

[@13ig13oots]

Some people listen to their equipment rather than enjoying the music, I personally don't see the point. I recently got myself a pair of Musical Fidelity balanced headphones and the matching headphone amp, since I live in a flat it means I can listen to music late at night without disturbing my neighbours.

[@Ironbuket]

0:35 You already had some 770 Pros but this was the first time you considered getting into higher quality audio? Some sites rate the 770 Pro over the HD650. Although this was the 250ohm version and you seem to have the 32 version. Have you tried using your 770 Pros in the Zen DAC?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Really not sure what the purpose of your first sentence is, mate. As for trying them with the Zen DAC - nope.

[@Ironbuket]

@@MarkEllisReviews Maybe read it again? Your 770 Pros would be good enough to try out entry level audiophile stuff? Should have said 770 not 700 in the start of the second sentence - I’ve corrected it now. 770 is often rated higher than the model up from the Sennheisers you purchased

[@blejzerosamigos6115]

Wher is that interview with the audiophile that you mentioned in the beginning of your video,thanks

[@jleetj]

Thanks for the very straightforward advice using relatively affordable equipment. I've always been tempted to delve into the audiophile world but have been confused by the options out there and don't want to make a costly mistake. A question I have, though, is whether there any benefit to be gained by listening to standard streaming (Apple Music or Spotify) music with this equipment? Obviously highest quality is best, but an expensive subscription is a big consideration. Should I not bother unless I'm prepared to get the expensive sub?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks for the nice words! That's a great question. You'll notice a slightly difference, possibly, but probably not enough to justify the expense, if I'm honest. At worst, you might hear the inadequacies of lower quality streams more, as I noted in the video. I really do recommend pairing this with a high quality streaming service :)

[@mikes6844]

Where you notice the difference between the music sources is where Mark says it is, the better quality source the more engaging it becomes and yes you really do start to hear more detail and nuances. I’m not a total anorak when it comes to hi-fi but I like to have good source components and decent speakers. I could spend lots of money but like most things it’s a compromise, with the components Mark has reviewed for a few hundred pounds you are getting a sound experience that would cost thousands in a traditional setup. Have fun 😃

[@shared29]

It's almost impossible to hear the diference between a mp3 320 and a 16 bit flac

[@gerhardschmidt6634]

good explanations!

[@neilbissett1240]

Great review mate have a listen to a song by a band called yes the song is called owner of a lonely heart it’s an incredible mix 😎

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks, Neil. And that’s one of my favourite songs, ever. Trevor Horn at his best.

[@dsslimone]

Love this review/ post. Got a sub from me. Could I ask if Focal have an equivalent to the Sennheiser . Love your manner and delivery. 👍👍

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

already forgot how they sound lul, just trust the rank

[@akeaveney]

Hi Mark. I'm currently running a pair of 15+ year old Sennheiser HD580s off a Behringer FCA202 Audio Interface. I'm thinking of moving to the 560S's mainly for comfort reasons, I use headphones 10+ hours a day. I'm just wondering did you try anything besides the ifi Zen Dac/Amp? Did you consider any valve/vacuum headphone amps? I agree with you about the importance of the source. I'm used to using Tidal as a source but find it so muddy when I'm listening to a lot of stuff on KZbin.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Hi, Alan. Thanks for tuning in. I'm afraid I haven't tried anything beyond the iFi Zen DAC yet, but I will be this year!

[@radicalgambino2959]

I'm surprised you never mentioned software which will bypass the computers audio out into the amp/dac

[@MarkEllisReviews]

I genuinely have no idea what you’re talking about.

[@radicalgambino2959]

@@MarkEllisReviews kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6KmYqSjmdJ6os0 listen to what this guy says about it. Audirvaña might be a good option

[@katelinsu]

My dream pair of over ear, wireless headphones: great sound for listening to music (duh!), removable boom mic for work calls (ugh), and an optional line in cord (+ mic still working with line in). Does this exist? 🥺🥺🥺

[@AZG90]

Hi Mark! Thanks for great video. I use Fiio K7 with audio technica ath-m50x. the set is connected to my turntable via line input. when I listen to music I find that I need almost maximize the volume knob on the Fiio to hear the music on a level I like . what do you might be the reason for it? Thanks!

[@deadandburied7626]

Mark can you recommend any Bose headphones model please?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Haven’t tried their current line up unfortunately, but I’ll be keeping an eye on what they do this year.

[@fincaalcanara]

Hi I have recently watched this video and was really inspired to look at my equipment so far and my sources for music. BUT I am confused…on the one hand most reviewers say that, Dac, amp plus cable plus good over ear open or iems. Then I read about the Fiiio latest Bluetooth dac amp being the latest budget system which offers incredible sounds plus the convenience of less cable hanging around. Then I read that bluetooth can never deliver the sound dynamics of lossless music…. SO CONFUSION… what do I believe …. Can you help?

[@texasbassranger]

I fell down that Bluetooth headphone and earphone rabbit hole nonsense and no matter how much the manufacturer claimed their product was just as good as a wired option, they failed to perform anywhere near as good as the wired counterparts. I blow by the wireless choices, having spent way too much money on empty promises.

[@fincaalcanara]

@@texasbassranger I have now bought the topping g5 plus moon drop Kato’s. Let’s hope this works for me. I’ve yet to try the Bluetooth connection via this system. But am very happy so far. 👍

[@bubblebubble50]

Do you think hd560s is better than hd58x?

[@asan1050]

Thanks Much !

[@peterscrace3530]

Mark if you think HD560s is impressive try the HD660s ;)

[@MarkEllisReviews]

I reckon that'll be my next upgrade :)

[@KingdomKey57]

@@MarkEllisReviews, To be honest, I have been in this hobby for 3 years now and I don't recommend doing small incremental jumps like the HD560s to HD660s. In order to really hear a big difference, I recommend making big jumps after you have gotten used to your current setup. You will save more money this way haha. I slowly moved my way up to a Beyerdynamic T1 Gen 2 with a Schiit Audio Jotunheim 2 amp and Modius Dac and I regret all of the incremental equipment purchases I made haha

[@johnniekeymer]

I just got a pair of B&W px8. If I get a ifi zen dac, would the B&W headphones work well when wired compared with an open backed pair of audiophile headphones?

[@RealAleksandarBlagojevic]

To be honest, i was drawn to it. I use the Sony MX4 and today I got a Tidal Hifi trial subscription. I tested the service against apple music on a few songs. I couldn't really tell the difference. Am I doing something wrong?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

What Tom said. You really need a wired headphone/amp/DAC setup to discover what you’re missing.

[@RealAleksandarBlagojevic]

@Tom Herbert oh, thank you very much for the hint! a real shame

[@ProductivePM]

Just use the included cable with the MX4’s and try it. There is a difference.

[@RealAleksandarBlagojevic]

@@ProductivePM thank you for pointing me out. I forgot that there is a 3.5 jack for the mx4! Unfortunately, the iphone doesn't have one, so I ordered a 3.5 jack adapter today. I'm curious. maybe i'm too old but i'm currently testing the music app with the same song via bluetooth on the iphone with the jack on the mac ... i don't hear any difference. is that normal? EDIT: I don't have an amp/dac setup... it that the reason why there is not really a difference?

[@RealAleksandarBlagojevic]

I'm officially giving up. After I got the Fiio Q3 DAC and connected everything wired, I couldn't see any differences with the Tidal App or Qobuz. Actually, I would have expected a distinction such as "day and night". Disappointed, I give up and will send the Q3 back. A friend of mine said that the MX4 weren't audiophile headphones, but even if they weren't, I should have heard significant differences as they are quite suitable for hi-fi. Setup was: iPhone XR with Lightning to USB-C to the DAC and with 3.5 jack to the MX4. Source were 24bit 96Khz songs from the apps mentioned above.

[@germanrottweiler2811]

I just bought Momentum 4 and I phones 13, can I purchase BTR 7 to make it louder

[@Hammid]

The REASON for THAT!

[@j.d.4697]

Once you start listening to good quality recordings on a good setup, you won't want to take them off anymore and you will remember the words of some people "I can't live without music". So for me personally, budget quality like Sennheiser HD 560S + Zen Dac V2 for example, for roughly $300 is an absolute steal in terms of audio quality.

[@Angel-ek5xz]

Would this ifi zen dac work with a turntable/record player? Im interested in this combo for it if it works. My turntable has a built in pre-amp

[@k-rup4772]

Dumb question: can you make the sound "surround" like dolby atmos with amps?

[@Doctah395]

Will these work with Apple’s upcoming lossless?

[@georgethemonkeydrummer5598]

Definitely

[@nicolescutiberiu]

But Apple Music has High-Res audio, isn’t that enought instead of Tidal ? Please answear cuz i allready got used to Apple Music

[@kevinarnold213]

tyvm

[@kaisersolo76]

Budget/Starter version of such a setup: Sybasonic Dac/Pre Amp(£30), Superflux 668B(£35) + replacement brainwaves velour pads(£10), Mod Mic Uni (£40 - if you need a mic)

[@RCmaniac667]

Hello, are you still using 668b? Thinking of upgrading from them

[@kaisersolo76]

@@RCmaniac667 I went SHP 9500 & SHP9600. Great sound from both of these. Also bought a second dac for gaming creative x3

[@RCmaniac667]

@@kaisersolo76 i see, please tell me how are they better than luxes? Are you using EQ?

[@RCmaniac667]

@@kaisersolo76 i personally in doubt about pulling the trigger on Fidelio x2hr or some other headphones in those price range (sub ~200)

[@kaisersolo76]

@@RCmaniac667 Go check reviews.

[@chriscarbajal9688]

What happens when you plug in the xm4s into the amp?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

They work :) But I haven't done much testing. I'm not much of a fan of running headphones like the XM4s through amps - they don't really need it.

[@jjcornelio7741]

next upgrade for you is buying HifiMan Sundara and Zen Can!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Don't tempt me!

[@jjcornelio7741]

@@MarkEllisReviews buy your HD560s a new cable. A balanced one, 4.4mm and plug it on your Zen Dac. You'll love it!

[@monstamac2005]

Agree, planar magnetics are my favorite type of headphones.

[@Bootrosgali]

Ive been WH XM3 throiuggh and through and thats all i know but I have collected 40000 IDM tracks, EP and LPs over the last 12 years and im ready to spend 600Euros on FOCAL ELEGIA and go wired portable and have a rather large audiophile closed back for my usual moving around. Its perfect, I wil get spacious sound signtaure in a closed poratabl and they used to cost 900Euro.

[@abdulmalika02]

bro I have the dt 770 pros 250ohm with the Soundblaster g5 . and i want to upgrade to the zen dac v2 only . what do you think ? is it loud and crisp enough?

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

good buy

[@abdulmalika02]

@@iikatinggangsengii2471 already did a year ago . i bought an hd 650 also . with zen stack

[@taintedbulge]

He needs to try a pair of gold planar gl2000s dual magnet. For the price there is nothing else like it.

[@MichaelSidneyTimpson]

How do you wear headphones for long periods of time without your ears hurting (I mean my actual eardrums.). My Senheiser HD6XX are definitely the best, but at the end of the day, my eardrums are in pain.

[@Nick_4i]

If your actual eardrums hurt, you either have a medical problem that you should get checked out or you are listening at dangerously high volumes.

[@jedlomax100]

Are DACs only for streaming?

[@jakeallen476]

do you need a pre-amp?