TWO! $1000 Hifi headphone Systems! - Don't make this mistake!

Can you build a GREAT Headphone system for under $1000? Of course you can, in fact, you can make 2!
System 1
Meze 109 Pro - apos.audio/pro...
Airpods Pro 2 - amzn.to/3Jz0xXg
System 2
6XX - massdrop.7eer....
Sundara - amzn.to/3Yhdn0o
See Audio Midnight - amzn.to/3HOYooT
FiiO K7 - apos.audio/pro...
Balanced cables - amzn.to/3RwUww3 & amzn.to/3HO97jm
TOP 3 FAVORITE BUDGET HEADPHONES
🥇 HD560S - amzn.to/3NwLeNM
🥈 SHP 9600 - amzn.to/3NEsoEo
🥉 K361 - amzn.to/3xxKQsM
Favorite headphones
🥇 DIANA TC - abyss-headphon....
🥈Arya - apos.audio/pro....
🥉 DT1990Pro - amzn.to/3MzsBrg
TOP 3 FAVORITE CLOSED BACK HEADPHONES
🥇 Sony Z1R - amzn.to/3aDxOB4
🥈 Sony Z7 - amzn.to/3O0C2Bd
🥉 K361 - amzn.to/3xxKQsM
BEST Amplifiers -
🥇 Topping A90 - apos.audio/pro....
🥈 THX 789 / 887 - amzn.to/3QdJ0Vq
🥉 DX3 Pro - amzn.to/3O1wF4H
IEMS
🥇 Sennheiser IE300 - amzn.to/3Q8svd3
🥈 Moondrop Aria - amzn.to/3aEytlG
🥉(budget Option) - Tin T2 - amzn.to/39g6eta
SPEAKERS
🥇 SVS ULTRA Towers - amzn.to/3xzt9sU
🥈 Vanatoo T1E - amzn.to/3O5ag6q
🥉 Micca RB42 - amzn.to/3aBmXHP
ACCESSORIES
iFix It - amzn.to/3NCok7O
Soundrise Pro Stands - amzn.to/3tphpXt
IEM TIP Storage - amzn.to/3NAMQ9r
Headphone Case - amzn.to/39xOlk...
My Filming Equipment
Camera - A7S-3 - amzn.to/3mynq00
Sigma 24-70mm - amzn.to/3MtKBmQ
Sony 90mm - amzn.to/3QarT6P
​​Sachtler Flowtech 75 - amzn.to/3H4WEG9
Ronin RS2 - amzn.to/3HdOgUP
GVM Slider - amzn.to/3Q8nEIV
These are my genuine recommendations in various categories. They are affiliated links that help pay for this KZbin channel at no additional cost to you.
SOCIAL MEDIA
📷 / joshua.valour
🔔 / joshvalour
📫SENDING FOR REVIEW??📫
Email Me - [e-mail]
#Headphones ​​​ #Hifi #Audiophile
*As an Amazon, Drop and Apos Associate I earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
I use this money back towards the quality of video of this channel. To see how, watch this video

[@lockjaw333]

6xx + Sundara + good $100-200 dac/amp = DONE. Having gone up the ladder over $2K , these two are basically as good as anyone realistically needs. Beyond this point its more different than better. And there are so many good dac/amp combos that can easily power those two (schiit fulla/hel/magni&modi stack, jds atom stack, FiiO K3/K5/K7).

[@ANSWERTHECALLOFJESUSCHRIST]

I agree. In my experience, I think ear/brain training is required to be able to appreciate the utmost resolution, definition and presentation differences between mid-fi and hi-fi headphones, and expensive DACs and amps. As "flawed" as the HD 6XX are, powered with just a DACport HD or MIYO, which are really clean and powerful for being portable, they bring me as much enjoyment as my pricey headphones with my pricier desktop DACs and amps. Better equipment just allows one to hear more of what that affordable combination already presents, which I opine is more than enough aural information to augment the musical enjoyment.

[@zersockpuppet]

Fully agree.

[@ravantgarde1899]

Will Qudelix 5K balanced be able to power these?

[@lucaa.9709]

@@ravantgarde1899 NOPE. The dac is good though

[@craiglamson9247]

I really love watching your vids. Not only have you giuded me as I move into the headphone scene, but as a 40 year commercial photographer I'm really enjoying watching yorr production quality grow. Very nice worj. One comment, adding the hybrid pads to the 6xx transformed them for me, as did moving from the DX3Pro plus to a Maginus/Modius stack. That power makes those 6xx's sing.

[@jaredbusse3717]

Haha. So Spring 2021 I started my audio journey with the Sundara's followed up by a month later, the 6XXs! Always thought these were a great pairing as Josh said. And before I bought those I bought a basic 3+ Schiit Stack (cause Canadian monies don't go as far for balanced). And then I also bought after all that a custom cable from Periapt for my Sundara's. So other than being unbalanced, I did exactly what was suggested like 2 years ago. And I got to those decisions by watching Josh, DMS, and Z reviews (among others) and coming to my own conclusions. (Highly recommend and agree with what was said on system 2!)

[@Nordraw]

The Edition XS can’t be beat for the money

[@believethehype1045]

Aune AR5000 = 300 Fiio K7 = 200 Aune balanced cable = 50 Airpods Pro gen 2 = 189 (on sale) Grand total = 739 This is what I paid for my total setup. Can't be happier. The convenience and great sound from airpods anywhere I go with no wires and can use them for working out. The Aune is the home beast that hits so good with the K7.

[@GoodBoyShep]

im currently rockin a system. Focal clear OG with multiple amps (btr5, apple dongle (for apple) and moonriver 2). Then HD600 with Little Dot MK2 and Modi. (I also have a Magni 3+ but don't use it), then I have a UTWS5 with 7Hz Timeless which is probably my favorite out of all of them... What I would recommend, is a 7Hz Timeless with UTWS5 and Focal clear, which would equal around 1200 max right now. Maybe 1100 on sale

[@robinkleinsteuber5217]

Interesting!! I own both the HiFiman Sundara and the massdrop x Sennheiser HD-6xx, and love them both. I believe you nailed their differences really well. I use both headphones each with their own dedicated headphone amp. Both combos are superb, especially for the price! I use the Nitsch x Schiit Magni Piety with the HD-6xx. The upper bass + mids, i.e., the vocals, are what I would call "organic", "soul-stirring", and just plain "FUN". Would not part with this combo no matter what! The Sudara's are driven impressively well by the superb Geshelli Archel 3 Pro. This combo is more "analytical", transparent, more open, and certainly more musical instrument focused. This is, for sure, my go-to combo for chamber music, acoustic blues, jazz instrumentals, and orchestral music. Sorry for my long-winded response, but I hope it might help somebody. Have a great day of music!

[@sahajsb2728]

Note: The Sundara is capable of producing some VERY good bass with a little bit of EQ. The Sundara's highs are also a little harsh without EQ, but are outstanding when EQ'd

[@emrenuriyev9132]

I am beginner to hifi. What is your personal recommendation for eq app in windows 11?

[@sahajsb2728]

@@emrenuriyev9132 use equalizerapo. You can get UIs for it like Peace, but I just use it as is. From there, you can find tutorials and even presets people created specifically for your headphone/speaker

[@csch92]

I have owned my sundaras 3-4 months now and my jaw dropped when i eq'ed the bass i was like holy cow they can bass

[@shifty25_]

For 1000, I would do edition XS and dx3pro +, and 560s (part of my current system)

[@NorthDKK]

I went with the Topping g5 (DAC/amp portable), Aful P5 (iem), Fiio k7 and the Hifiman XS. And my go to earbuds are the galaxy buds live. Works for me..

[@ianver8888]

Warranty for me is important, I am one of the people who have headphone cbd 😊. Because of warranty experience on a h…n brand I stopped buying their brand and again on same issue (warranty) I opted for A…e brand they took care of me and loved that experience. Getting a great customer satisfaction experience can give a brand loyal customers of course it goes without saying that the product itself has to be good

[@KaoruSugimura]

Replace the SeeAudio Midnight with the Ikko Obsidian and I could comfortably agree with that list.

[@barneyrubble9309]

I got myself a fantastic little system : used Chord 2qute (£500); Topping L50 (£170) leaves £330 for headphone/iem of choice.

[@camoturtle18]

Hey Josh, will you be attending CanJam NYC later this month? Would love to see you there and maybe get a picture with you!

[@SilviuBucsa]

Great as always!

[@Digiphex]

The Apple headphones give you the full Dolby Atmos surround thing. And Apple music gives you the lossless or even Hi-Res if you have an external DAC. I see no benefit to Hi-Res but it's there for people who want it.

[@def-po8tu]

What would u guys say is better for the hirfiman edition xs, the topping dx3 pro+ or the fiio k7?

[@hmpf7729]

I thought you will pick hifiman xs

[@marufa6444]

hi, I have a drop+sennhieser HD8xx and is Fiio k7 all I need or k5 pro? for general use

[@lesternoguera1539]

What do you guys think is a good balance amp for my hd 650

[@pholly]

There's no way I'd recommend getting a pair of "renewed" Airpod Pros for $200, NEW ones go on sale for $200 pretty much every month.

[@scottpaddock6685]

Howdy Josh. Apos audio and Topping are screwing with me. Do you have any contacts at Topping who can make a warranty exchange happen? I’m incredibly leery and disinclined to buy any of the Apos brands given the runaround and poor service I’ve experienced so far. Cheers.

[@BC_CARS]

What pads should I buy to capture a little more low end in my Sundaras (amp: SMSL SP200, dac: Schiit Modi, balanced XLR cables)

[@starkid9736]

i have cheap china pads from amazon they are thicker 25 mm and many little holes look like a big Donut no tilt they sound better i like them more and i use zen can with added bass i use stellias but man do i like my sundaras (big techno hangar sound) tip: experiment with cloth(t shirt like) infront of the driver to tame highs ( i like "dull" sound)

[@BC_CARS]

@@starkid9736 I’ll see what Amazon has in stock, don’t think I’ll try the cloth in front of the driver cuz I love how damn detailed these things are but the base fall off is damn annoying. If anything I might just be looking for a super inefficient pair of closed backs that capture everything. Ik there one pair that everyone mods to get better sound out of and is super inefficient but I can’t remember what they were called

[@nikolaoskozas8419]

Hey Josh, what would you choose between the 109 pros and the clear OGs?

[@CrypticHelix]

I've tried both, I find the 109's to be more dynamic but on 1/100 tracks for me they can come across as sibilant. I've never had that issue with the clears but they also sound a bit more neutral which some people like but isn't necessarily what I'm looking for when I'm looking at these two headphones. Build quality is a wash, they're both extremely well built. The 109s have the best comfort of any headphone I've ever tried, which is nice considering I use them when I'm at my WFH setup and have them on for 8+ hours a day. The clears are kind of middling, I think I just prefer the headband. I ended up sticking with the 109's I've heard pad swapping to some ZMF pads can help with the sibilance, I've also heard it's a pain to get new pads on so maybe I'll give that a shot once mine start to wear down. Overall it's an infrequent enough issue that it doesn't really bother me but if you're more sensitive to it then it might bother you.

[@nikolaoskozas8419]

@@CrypticHelixThanks for the insightful info, man. It's really appreciated.

[@Fallen_Family]

@@CrypticHelix man I do wish they made the 109 pads available to buy separately, I'd get a set for the meze neo's since they have that valour im looking for but they don't sell that am I'm not sure how it would change the sound.

[@CrypticHelix]

@@Fallen_Family I'm not even sure if they'd fit. I'm sure you could reach out to their support and ask. I know the 109 is quite a bit larger than the 99 so just not sure if it would fit.

[@abodi1417]

hello i would be grateful if you can help me guys i have a DT 1770 pro with an asus essence stx ii sound card i want three separate sittings for my EQ gaming, music and movies the EQ range is 30-60-120-250-500-1k-2k-4k-8k-16k thank you :)

[@AlvaroAvalos]

Step 1: Buy a $3000 laptop

[@rayahmed9739]

How can you trust reviews these days???? liked your videos until all the apple bullshit, lost trust as it come of like your selling a promo

[@GoodBoyShep]

focal clear (currently 890$) vs Meze 109 Pro. Can we possibly get this in the future? These are both highly loved right now

[@H3m3n3x]

I'm using Dragonfly cobalt with Edition XS, I think the sound quality is pretty good for 800$

[@jamiebuyers]

Recently purchased the K7 for my off stream listening setup as my GoXlr feels like it has no headroom even driving my 660s's. Swapping over to the K7 for dedicated listening breathed new life into my 660s and the difference in my IE300s for EDM/HipHop was actually insane when running both through the balanced circuit. Such a great amp/dac for the money. Fiio really nailed it!!!

[@jingjing3538]

Yea, I wonder why most reviewers do not emphasize the importance of balanced output when introducing the DAP/DACs. And many people claim there is no sound difference between the 6.35 stereo and the balanced output. For me, the sound difference between these two is significant. Even if you are not an audiophile, you can still notice it.

[@pengayho]

By any chance you have it set up to connect with your GoXLR? I've been trying to find a dac/ amp set up but have no clue how to set one up with my current interface.

[@Kevin-sh1sx]

@@jingjing3538 There are many people who cannot actually hear their differences, which are limited by many factors such as sound sources, equipment, and their ears

[@ChristosTsitselis]

Thanks for all you're content during the past days your videos helper me alot. Just got the senheizer hd660S2 and I am trying to choose between K7 and topping dx3 pro +. I am new to this high end world but I was thinking that balanced output would be a better option than bt or remote. 660s2 come with a balanced cable as well. What's your recommendation? Thanks In advance

[@undefeatedmc]

I ordered the 700$ setup, Edition XS and FiiO K7 x'D which if I add an IEM/6XX would probably be a good 1000$ setup as well

[@xOogieBoogie3x]

Hifiman Edition XS - $499 Schiit Jotunheim 2 with ESS DAC module - $499 $1000

[@NorthDevilll]

My first audiophile headpones are Sundara and I really loved it. A very nice change of pace after iems. Wanted something else to try, got HD600 and totally hated it. I dig into tonality, mids are way more natural, but small soundstage just kills it for me. It felt so wierd, like my both iems I currently own have bigger soundstage. I've never expected it to be such a problem for me, but I got rid of the HD600 within a month. I guess maybe my xDSD Gryphon is not exactly enough to power HD600, but it works with Sundara so well (xbass works very well with them as well).

[@Whires]

Had the same experience with hd6xx. Always appreciated soundstage, didn't have a problem with most closed backs though so I didn't think I'd mind. Going from the sundara to the hd6xx had me really missing the separation and sense of space. Haven't returned them though, I feel like I should have it for novelty's sake.

[@Robinson777]

I had the opposite reaction when I had the 660S and Sundara in hand. I felt like the detail and clarity in the 660S outweighed the obviously larger soundstage and imo just slightly better bass of the Sundara and found the 660S takes bass EQ pretty well so I decided to keep the 660S over Sundara. Preference is subjective.

[@rage0exe]

Edition XS and Fio K7 pro and you are done with Audio EZ

[@codysantmyer5781]

Is fio k7 a big upgrade over dx3 pro?

[@def-po8tu]

​@@codysantmyer5781I currently trying to figure this out myself

[@seattleraf]

Option 2 vs Clear OGs is indeed a hard choice to make. The clears are just so gooood. I think what it will come down to is how much you want to be "done" with continuing to upgrade. Going down the path of having 2 headphones that complement eachother is what I did, but at a different price point. I got a used Arya v2 and a used Clear OG and now I am happy to bounce between them and I really, really, really don't think I'll ever find the desire to get anything more expensive. These are fantastic and each so different from the other. How can I get bored? I am DONE. So, similarly for someone that just wants to get some good sound and call it done, I think getting 2 headphones is good. It'll do a good job of taming the side of you that looks for upgrades due to getting bored of the same sound signature. But, sometimes people enjoy the chase. And if you enjoy the chase, maximizing your money on a single headphone (and amp if needed) is the way to go. As long as you enjoy chasing the next purchase.

[@ConIey916]

Just getting into hifi audio, purchased a HD650 and Sundara, running it off an Audient Evo4. Everyone praised the Sundaras and I was really looking forward to them. The bass sounds muddy and awful, highs don’t sound the best either. Idk if it’s a qc problem or what but I wouldn’t recommend these to people. The HD650s on the other hand are an absolute joy to listen to.

[@skrauthauser]

I’m gonna take a suggestion from crinacle here and recommend you return it if you can. It’s really not worth trying to negotiate sources when you could just save your money and try another set of cans you could actually enjoy. I haven’t personally tried the sundara, I’m looking closer to the edition/arya lineup, but all of this is good to keep in mind!

[@dumaneduard]

why are you all shying away from B&O ? they are endgame period

[@ptpoul]

Own the k7. Very very good product. Matches my Bayer dynamic a1 amp that was way more expensive back in the day, than this little unit.

[@CharlesSeraphDrums]

Happened to me. I went from the Skullcandy Hesh 3 to the Sennheiser HD599. Here, I went first for an Apple dongle, then upgraded to a Hilidac Atom 2 and then to an Audioquest Dragonfly Black. A few months in, I upgraded to the Sundara and I felt it really didn’t need anything besides the Dragonfly. Until a friend explained to me the difference between dynamics and planars as power requirements go. So now my mobile system has the Dragonfly powering the 7hz Diokos and my desktop setup is an iFi Uno to a Cavalli/Monolith Liquid Spark powering the Sundaras and the preamping and amping make them shine and rock.

[@larryeckerdt9750]

I started with the Sundara and a Schiit Stack Modi/Magni/Loki to dial in the sound if it needed help. But then I added the 6xx, but it kinda bored me. To justify the purchase I got a Darkvoice for them, and that made a HUGE difference. But now I can’t stop watching iem reviews, so I’m up to 3 sets of those. Damn you, Josh!

[@amanieux]

I am surprised that with your first config straight out of your MacBook pro you did not include a cheap dongle dac ( 7hz 71 that uses akm dac and does 70mW for $30 as an example) because when I compare my MacBook white to the $10 apple dongle dac , the dongle clearly has better audio than the internal dac

[@juanmillaruelo7647]

The MBAir had better audio than the MB white, and the Apple Silicon Macs have much better audio than Intel Macs. ...but it would be very nice to know exactly how well current Macs measure. All in the name of science, of course 😊

[@HermesAndroidProject]

The FiiO x Crinacle FHE:Eclipse are really good as well for IEM, in their price range, easy to drive with a lot of audio sources.

[@petermitro3426]

Using your reviews I end up with the Sandara, the 6xx, 7hz Timeless and Zen DAC. Super pleased! The only thing I'm eyeing is the Xduoo MT -604, for now.

[@collind7215]

What would you recommend for a newer user (have been running the hd598’s for like 10 years now) that is looking for a decent setup and an overall upgrade. I do want something for gaming and music listening/movie watching. Willing to buy an amp and two headphones if needed (preferably under $1k total though). Gaming is the bigger one that I’m looking for good directional audio for competitive gaming.

[@nazibkhan775]

With prices as they are I'm going with HD6XX, Hifiman Edition XS ($379.99), Crinacle Zero Red ($54.99 and FIIO K7 BT ($249.99). I already have all of them except the Edition XS. Got the 6XX on sale for $179.99 on Drop with some balanced cables and am very pleased with the setup. The K7 BT has been a game changer for me personally. Gave my 6XX a much needed bass increase. When I get the Edition XS that'll most likely be my settling point for the next 5 years or so unless something breaks or I have more money saved up

[@Vonliktenstien]

For me versatility and portability are paramount so I went AirPod Pros 2, FiiO BTR5, and the 6XX’s with a balanced 2.5mm.

[@nrs_207]

I think it depends on the deal. A Clear OG was $840 over the holidays. It’s nice using different gear but when you get a deal like that… I nabbed the LCD-X for $699 and a Schiit Hel 2E (needed something compatible with a PS5) so it was right around $900. My AirPods Pro 2 for $220ish puts it over a grand but that’s all I need for a long time.

[@sachinmajotra9665]

LCD x for 699 how?

[@drewmorg.]

AWesome video and all my research had lead me to the Sundaras and 6XX as well. What is less clear is how to integrate these into a gaming setup with a microphone. Also, I'd LOVE the ability to tap in my iPhone to some kind of wireless receiver which plays simultaneously with the system. Any ideas?

[@abhinandande]

Using Hifiman Sundara + Fiio K7 System With Custom Made Balanced 4.4mm Cable From 2023 and Honestly This is The Best Value System in The Entire Audiophile World.

[@davidmason8212]

Can you pleass review the ananda SE

[@fernandomonrroy9523]

Interestingly my first true audiophile system was a 1,000 usd also, I got a LCD 2C and a Schiit Hel 2. It was a huge step up from my cellphone + Sennheiser HD579

[@nrs_207]

I grabbed the same Schiit and got lucky on the B stock sale from Audeze in November and grabbed the LCD-X for $699. I’ve always wanted an Audeze pair, couldn’t believe I happened to luck out

[@pritambanerjee7172]

Can you suggest the mojo 2 + external amp combination along with the Sundara or Edition Xs? If yes, what amp is good with the mojo 2?

[@brunonjezic6208]

How do you get Tidal working properly on MacBook Air m1? It seems like app is not available at the moment and per safari I don’t get full quality

[@edenight893]

My budget was almost similar two years ago, I went for the sundara, a focal elegia on discount, a ifi zen stack and the moondrop aria for portable. It's a bit over the 1000$ but I got so much versatility for my differents use case. Plus, back then I couldnt consider a 1000$ headphone without knowing my tastes in audio, it seemed too much of a gamble to me.

[@Whires]

How'd you like the Elegia? Thinking of picking one up off of Ebay

[@casualmime2792]

I have like 6 4000+ headphones as well as hd 650s, I hate the 650s. I hear you josh but if you're taller than 5'8 or just have a larger head width these things are painful. Some of the most clampy headphone's I've used. Further, their bass and distortion is trash. How can comfort be worse than lcd 4s? Basically everything below 130hz has excessive distortion. 10mm airpods have exponentially lower distortion, it's embarrassing. I need to sell the hd 650s.

[@alexshewan]

I literally just picked up the Hifiman Sundara and Fiio K7 BT today. Im breaking them in slowly but did notice the volume needs to be cranked quite a bit on the K7 to reach a decent listening level. It definitely breaths new life into all of the tracks I've listened to so far. I do need to figure out the whole EQ situation though to make adjustments to the bass. Expensive hobby but I'm really enjoying it this far.

[@xERRRAHx]

I have been running BYD 700 pro X just off my 2022 MacBook Pro (also have AP pro 2s for travel). for last year or so.. ready to upgrade and future proof. I prefer closed back, as I use these for work, and personal use... I am thinking my 1000 system if I upgrade and future proof might be 200 ish for K7 DAC paired with FOCAL Celestee. 800 ish. now days.

[@therealwhite]

I love my 6xx and my interest in new headphones has dwindled down to mere curiosity rather than wanting something better. I spent all my weekend shoving Samson SR850 foam (and anything else I could find) into my HE-400se so that it wouldn't murder my ears, but sadly, it's still to painful for me to listen to for more than a few minutes :/ I've been avoiding the Sundara because I don't want a 400se repeat, but now I'm wondering how good the Sundara actually is...

[@hartyewh1]

I'd say at any price range personal preferences and taste in music determine good options more than what's available on the market. Sundara with EQ is a fantastic allrounder though and if I knew nothing I'd go with that as well.

[@masterazlan6999]

Gd idea But its an old one.. Yup sure i myself got this TWS which has multipoint (ipod didnt) cuz i has 2 handset..support LDAC frm soundcore..He 2nd one TWS yeah ipx6 rating yup bro waterproof. Done with headphones Cuz it not sensitive enough N 'hard to keep' Compare to iem Sumore u can do Endgame system 4 iem in range of the budget bro Headphones way..long road to reach the Endgame..Last point iem always got case Which longer lifetime survivor..bring em everywhere witout people notice..peace! Mine iem-delta sigma-tubes Endgame heaven..peace again!

[@mehmetsahin4130]

I’m using hd600 with MacBook Pro m2 pro. If I buy fiio k7, will sound quality improve considerably better or difference will be just %5 ? Thank you!

[@jeremysumpter8939]

I had purchased the Sundara and did not like them. Started with my laptop, then BTR5 2021, then Q11...all balanced, up to 650mw and I still did not like the Sundara. I ordered the K7 and wow, Instantly fell in love with the Sundara, the others would get loud enough but the sound was flat, muddy, unappealing. I dont know the terms, not an audiophile, but i know when something sounds good and when it doesnt. Sundara sounds bad without enough power. Then that brings in another problem, k7 with sundara is 600 dollars after tax, 650 with balanced cable. Now you could buy an Ananda or XS which is much easier to drive and stay in that price bracket.

[@theoracleprodigy]

Recently bought a fiio k7 and had a pair of akg 701 quincy jones headphones. Compared them to the $700+ meze and like the akg better. Although I made the mistake of trying the empyrean and now own them.

[@DJaquithFL]

$1,000 .. I'm not aware of any Apple notebook that only cost $1,000. So your headphones would be $0?

[@filipbrzezinski2678]

Hey, can anyone suggest me any budget friendly tube amp which can work well with my current setup, Fiio K7 bt and Sundara?

[@pisyaphets3327]

I have hifiman edition xs and fiio k7, the only thing I'm missing is the balanced cable. Does the balanced cable make a big difference or should I continue with the existing cable?

[@ismajim]

I own a Sundara, and I love them definitely would buy them again the imaging is amazing… would like to know about a close back that is not an EIM

[@tedtimmis8135]

Josh, even if I disagree with your conclusions, this was a very interesting and well-reasoned presentation.

[@georgygasparyan5522]

I think I would buy focal bathys and airpods pro2. Bathys has the dac mode so the sound quality wired should be excellent. and airpods are just airpods. OR hd 6xx + chord mojo 2 and airpods pro 2

[@thinkIndependent2024]

Wow apple Fandom is still alive!!!! Try a simple 2.1 Audio System !!!! Headphones that are only the essence of a live musical performance minimal at best many people have never actually heard a real system

[@rilchu3037]

So as a console gamer I am using the Steelseries Nova Pro Amp hooked up to a Xduoo MT-602 for some tube coloration. This sounds awesome to me and I use it with a bunch of different headphones I have but my standout favorites are the Audeze LCD-X 2020, Raptgo Hook-X, Epos H6 Pro, and the DT 177x Go. These are all fun to me and are great for gaming on. The Nova Pro Amp I like because I can have it hooked up to both my PS5 and Xbox Series X and get chat and audio with one device.

[@kbar11]

Got 6XX and been thinking of getting the Sundara as a supplemental pair for as you said 'not get bored' Just wish they were a bit cheaper or went on sale a bit more. In canada they are over $400 and that seems tough when they go for $250 or $300 in the US. However I am curious what you think of the Midnight IEM vs the Truthear Zero? I understand the zero is much cheaper and probably not as good but Im curious from a person who has both what you consider the big differences and if you think the Midnight are worth the price difference.

[@fobz7]

I already have the HS6xxs and I want to use my iphone, what is the best dac/amp for this setup? K7?? Thansk!

[@rauschka3395]

i am in this position and already bought the ifi go bar kensei on order bc I only listen to music on portable devices and am planning on getting the dca aeon RT / closed X to pair with it when the go bar arrives. Roast me or tell me how well i did lol.

[@dtz1000]

I had an amplifier once that I used with my hd600. I didn't notice any difference apart from it being louder.

[@britishskiing]

$1000? Ultimate Ears Pro Reference Remastered and a Fiio KA3. Done.

[@DaKingRC]

chord mojo 2 + akg k371 for the desk ; ibasso dc04pro + simgot ew200 for the road

[@doniherald7745]

and im here with 50$ thinking for a week before making headphone purchase that will last for the next two years

[@Nick22257]

Love the video, love the music in it too. I started my workday listening to this and it put me in a better mood. I broke my pair of beoplays so im trying to taste test and figure out what i like, and this gave me some helpful insights on what i want to do next. The first thing i picked up was a pair of Sundara, which i am enjoying very much albeit some of my use cases dont fit the headphone. I think i will get something bluetooth next, and then something to add power to my sundaras. Thanks Joshua

[@jaimefernandes6811]

My current setup is Sundara off a K7 balanced with a P1 Max iem for portable/isolation use, and I was looking to get a 6XX for both the inclusion of a dynamic into my setup and the sound presentation contrast for the sundara on songs that I don't quite think is a good match for it. The 2nd setup is practically the same and that is reassuring to me that it isn't a stupid idea to have 2 open back headphones and an iem. I did wonder if maybe an Elex is better to have than all of this but I do need an iem alot of the time and I would not want it to be my only device either with the limitations of the form factor compared to an open back.

[@Vantavimeow]

I don't see the issue in headphone monogamy, get one pair that's special to you and tailor the experience. Paying that bit extra (Meze 109 Pro) to get away from cheap ugly plastic construction is well worth it in my opinion.

[@killerra]

I'm in complete disagreement with the weird audiophile myth of "your brain/ears get bored if you onllky have one headphone." It's entirely nonsense.

[@anvithsraj5996]

I have a MacBook Air and want it to connect to the amp. What wire do I need to use to do this?

[@armaan_bhangoo]

TLDW, have $2000 and click links in the description :)

[@carminedesanto6746]

I’m using Midnights with IFI Go Blue at work 🤣

[@dmtphone]

I;d probably go 6XX, Elegia, Starfield and K7. Any extra money on foam tips and balanced cables. Feels like it covers all the bases well and leaves room to grow into a few different directions in the future.

[@garfythecat]

Moondrop Chu, Apple Dongle, $975 of weed.

[@drevo50]

Sage advice. PS why would we never come back?

[@AmieWea]

I sometimes comeback. Thanks for the recommendation.

[@moots27]

Hifiman XS, DX3 PRO, Blessing 2 Dusk, Apple Dongle. Little over budget but comes to around a 1000$

[@JohnScheppler]

It would be interesting to see what you would do for a closed back headphones version (no IEM) of this for say a office or dorm room where you don't want anything crazy looking, super expensive that you're worried that they will grow legs, and don't need sound cancelation not bothering your coworkers / rommates.

[@trillium9992]

You are looking for the Focal Celestee. Focal headphones are very comfortable, attractive without being crazy looking, have a clear neutral sound signature, roughly $800-$1000 price point, and are closed-back.

[@JohnScheppler]

@trillium9992 and how much is the vault to keep them in so they don't grow legs and walk away? If people found out that the headphones are $1,000, I'm guessing they would be found in a pawn store.

[@trillium9992]

@@JohnScheppler I had no idea what you meant by that the first time. So you are wanting a set of sleeper headphones that are secretly really nice, but look like a set of Koss headphones. This isn’t a world I walk in that I have to worry about that. Sorry, I can’t help here.

[@Fallen_Family]

@@JohnScheppler what's the price range you're looking for because there are several options and that would really narrow it down, but for around 200 I would recommend the meze neo since they look nice but they don't look to expensive

[@Bushviking]

I got a used Focal Elegia for that. Love them. They don't have a ton of bass stock, but pick up with some sheepskin earpads.

[@trevor245]

You'd get like twice the value if you went used.

[@AlexEarMusic]

My current setup is a pair of Sennheiser HD660s‘, Focal Celestee and for an IEM I am using some Mangird Tea. I pair that with an AUNE X1S dac amp. For mobile I use a Shanling M3X. I also have a killer $1000 2-way Home cinema/HiFi System in my living with a Marantz NR1200 paired to two Dali SPEKTOR II and am Argon Audio Sub. Love your suggestions Josh!

[@pprlng]

Really liking this series, Josh! Good stuff.

[@sergioriedemann]

Have you ever tried the Apogee Groove DAC?

[@martinshoosterman]

This was funny to watch as I actually have the 6XXs and the Sundaras. And I'm considering what to get next, specifically because the base isn't great on either of them. I have the drop pandas as well, but they are way too uncomfortable to listen to for an extended period of time unless I'm lying down. Is there anything else that you would recommend as my next pair, that isn't an iem?

[@johnsoriano3812]

The two options were very well thought out. Very cool

[@hellothere272]

For the Macbook system, I raise you a Vanatoo T0, AirPods Pro 2, a Blessing 2 Dusk (or another $300 IEM), and an apple dongle. Not a headphone system, but might be an interesting alternative. Or if you wanted to incorporate headphones, you could go with an HD6XX and a Moondrop KATO instead of the Dusk, though this would be a little over budget. Edit: Another idea for a headphone-inclusive version of this system is the Vanatoo T0, AKG K361, AirPods Pro 2, and the Topping DX3 Pro+ (in case you don't have a newer Macbook). The 6XX is lovely, but honestly, the K361 is probably the best-tuned headphone I've heard (and I've also heard the Sundara). The Sundara is extremely linear and well-balanced, but the bass is just a bit light for my HRTF and it's a little intense at around 8k. The K361 has a little more bass and overall has a more versatile tonality for different genres. It's a little bit less detailed in the midrange than either the 6XX or Sundara, but the staging and imaging is still pretty decent and its use case is more versatile as a closed-back. The only questionable component in this system is the DX3 Pro+, and if you're trying to save money, it is absolutely not necessary. But, if you have the money left over, it makes adjusting the volume on the Vanatoos a much nicer experience. The remote Vanatoo gives you doesn't adjust volume in small enough increments and adjusting volume from a computer just feels clunky. The DX3 is also great for the K361. Even though it provides wayyy more power than you need, it's still nice to be able to turn a volume knob. Again, if you need to save money, don't get the DX3, get an apple USB C dongle instead if your computer doesn't have a good headphone jack.

[@houssamalucad753]

Great choices

[@houssamalucad753]

But is a 300$ iem that much better than the airpods? I think the convenience of the airpods more than make up the sound difference, you need a headphone at that price to unlock something unique

[@hellothere272]

@@houssamalucad753 Yeah, I can see people wanting to spend more on headphones. Personally, I’ve tried headphones at that price range, and I’ve always preferred the Dusks. Even a Sundara can’t compete in terms of tuning and resolution imo. Because I have speakers and IEMs, I barely use headphones. If I want staging and imaging and I’m at my desk, why would I use headphones over speakers? And if I’m outside, the only sensible choice is IEMs. So, I feel like investing in speakers and IEMs is more practical (for me, at least) than investing in headphones. As for how the AirPods stack up against the Dusks for sound, the Dusks are a sizable step up from the AirPods (for me, anyway). They’re just much better for critical listening and getting lost in an album. The AirPods are still great though, and way more convenient. But if I want a maximum detail, neutral, and intimate listening experience, I go with my Dusks. But you might find that the AirPods work better for you. They’re more V-shaped and less “clinical” sounding.

[@houssamalucad753]

@@hellothere272 I see, good to see that some people prefer iem sound to headphones, I personally have a different taste

[@VineetReddyVenu]

I picked up Drop Ether CX and Topping G5 combo. Some may say that it is most boring combo. But that is what I was going for. Flat Neutral Transparent "Closed Back" combo. I actually started my search for "Flat Neutral and Transparent highly Detailed Closed Back headphones with perfect imaging" for around $100. And headphone community was like keep dreaming at that budget. You ether go up in budget or forget about those requirements. Initially I was like was what ever I may settle for M40Xs as those were close to my requirement in that budget range though very far away. I ordered them when on discount on Amazon but due to some stocking issues they failed to deliver them and order got canceled. As the Discount price was gone I was not sure if I should purchase or wait. And wait I did. But then started looking for better options at little more budget and somehow that landed me at $1000. Rest is History.

[@guillermoleoni]

Hello, excellent value for money with these recommendations, but I wonder if I want to use my DAP as a DAC, and I only want an AMP, which is better, the FIIO K7 or the IFI Zen Can?