Headphones

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A community for discussion around all topics related to headphones and personal audio.

founded 1 year ago
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926
 
 

https://preview.redd.it/msm63a7lzhzb1.jpg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=836141621ed249d230430a8671a748846f35509f

After 4 years, the upgraded model of the Q5S, the Q15, is finally coming out. The Q15 combines FIIO’s cutting-edge technologies and platforms in an easy-to-hold body, delivering a more comprehensive performance than any other product in its class. It is dedicated to fulfilling the rich needs of your portable or desktop use in a single device.

FIIO first uses AG glass for the back panel of the Q15, which is anti-scratch and anti-fingerprint with a delicate touch. Coupling with the golden size ratio of 18:9 makes it comfortable to use both when being handheld and when bundled with other portable devices. Whether on the go or a business trip, you can easily remain in control of your high-quality sound.

https://preview.redd.it/f3a93hwtzhzb1.jpg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2a67c7818e7b9895828c8900b67fb2264a50c5cb

As a portable desktop-grade machine, the Q15 features a new desktop mode, sporting a separate Type-C power connector for it. When the Q15 is connected to the PD power adapter, the Q15 will be powered externally completely bypassing the battery, allowing for a desktop-like experience even on the go. When put in Desktop Mode, the Q15 under balanced output can put out 1600MW in enhanced over-ear headphone mode, which is more than enough to easily drive various IEMs and full-size headphones.

https://preview.redd.it/6zf64j8vzhzb1.jpg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dbfbaf3abf09030c6a6b098fb2728cb498deefb7

The Q15 is the only model among products of the same grade that features AKM’s newest DAC combination - the AK4191EQ+AK4499EX. When working in tandem with the newly developed “DWA Routing Technology”, audio performance is greatly improved. The result is a more detailed, yet natural and realistic sound that makes the listener think they have been transported to the concert site.

https://www.androidbrick.com/fiio-q15/

927
 
 

Hey all,

I currently use Meze Lirics with a Chord Mojo 2, source is either Roon on my desktop (all FLACs) or my iphone (FLACs on onkyo app). Its been working for me, but I'm ready to make the step up to 'end-game' open backs as I have more space in a new home now and can set hardware up.

I've recently tried these 4 headphones:1.Focal Utopia2.Meze Elites3.Final D8000 Pro4.DCA ExpanseAnd I'm finding time to trial the LCD-5s and Abyss 1266 Phi TC as well. Of the 4 above, I prefer the D8000s and Expanse- BUT the expanse gave me noticeable jaw ache after about 20mins so I'm on the fence about it.

Even though I haven't tried the Abyss I suspect based on numerous reviews I've read and my genre preferences it may be a top candidate. If not, I'll prob go for the Expanse (if I try again and feel like I could get used to the pressure) followed by the D800s. Genres I listen to are Rock (all sub-genres included), EDM and Rap.

I'm undereducated with regards to the finer details of the different types of amps, DACs and I've never owned a DAP either. Could use some help from you fine folks

Questions:

  • Amps - I've shortlisted a number of headphone amps; my understanding is that amps just have to deliver enough power to drive X headphone and any supposed effect on sound quality is a contentious point in the community. True?
  • DAC - Wild variety out there and the more I read the more bewildered I get. Is there a DAC type and/or brand out there that suits the 3 genres I like? I need help homing in on a few models
  • DAP - Is it possible to skip buying a desktop DAC, and just get a high powered DAP to connect to my amp and thats it? Sidethought here is I could use this DAP for my Meze Lirics at the office as well so I get more utility out of my hardware. If this is possible, which DAPs out there could work for the 1266s / D8000 / Expanse?

Budget: Excluding what I spend on the headphones- US$10-15k max for amp + dac/dap

Would greatly appreciate any advice, thank you folks in advance!

928
 
 

I just got my chu 2 in the mail but it seems to have a different box art than the ones I see online

929
 
 
930
 
 

I hope such a post is allowed here, and I wonder if I am asking something possible, but I have been trying to look up what kind of IEMs one drummer on TikTok is using to no luck. I even tried asking the creator about them but till now there hasn't been a reply to me.

I was wondering if I post the video here, will there be any chance to recognize them? Link to the TikTok video.

Here's a photo also if it's of any help.

https://preview.redd.it/czox1g091izb1.png?width=230&format=png&auto=webp&s=f2e3d9c57be97d294813920028055b01e00eb777

931
932
 
 

I have owned these headphones for about 9 months and today while traveling in public transportation my bag was smoking, these headphones suddenly started to self combust and melt.

I really don’t know how something like this can happen it really looked like that chip was just burning.

933
 
 

In my country where taxes are very high, all headphones are very expensive. However, this time, after waiting for stocks for 1-2 years, luck smiled on me. I bought 2 of these headphones, which I knew about thanks to reddit, and then bought 2 more after listening to them. I made a headband pillow for one of them by hand, it is very comfortable now. Even though I have many headphones including Sennheiser HD800, I am very satisfied. I wonder if their pads will last on the shelf for 4-5 years? So should I stop at 4 pieces?

934
 
 

Having kids means less money for frivolous purchases like expensive headphones. I can still dream I guess. All of these are tried and tested brands, and the majority of those are new. The Grado’s ($25) and the m50xbt ($45) are second hand and I reckon pretty good scores. Headband has come off the rodblock on the Grado’s, so a bit of liquid nails sorted that out. Just need to get an overpriced wall wart for a magni2 I got for $40, and I’m set.

935
 
 

This all started several weeks ago when a set of trusty earbuds broke on me. When I thought about it, there were things I didn't love about them (Cambridge Audio ones), so I got some Pixel Buds Pro as I liked the functionality. I was under no illusions about sound quality. They would sound good enough.

Then I started researching.

Then I kept going. And going. Now I'm sitting here with a Mojo Chord 2 DAC and some Sennheiser HD 6XX and Grado SR80s.

I'm now waiting on some Hifiman Anandas arriving today.

Can someone please tell me to stop, because now I'm browsing Aryas. And the Anandas haven't even arrived.

I know that I get addicted to deep dives on tech. And this is swallowing me.

I'm fully aware of diminishing returns, and I can tell from how you guys talk about listening to music that I don't have nearly the same sophistication or vocabulary. That said, I hear a clear difference between my Grados and 6XXs.

I expect I'll hear *some* difference between Ananda and Arya.

But should I spend a few extra hundred to get there? Will Anandas get me a solid upgrade from the HD 6XX (which I like fine). I can't help chasing better. Or am I just chasing different at this point?

936
 
 

I have a pair and my son also has a pair in the same house. We both have Samsung galaxy phones and I also use Apple Macbook air (m1) and Linux Fedora. The names are difficult when connecting as both show up as BT250. How can I permanently rename my headphones? Any help would be appreciated.

937
938
 
 

Noob question

I have a HD650, and have no headphone amps, the sound quality is good when plugged on my PC and I never had a comparison. Until I found a old Pioneer SX316 in our garage, plugged it in the front headphone plug, and found the sound to be slightly different (in a good way).

So I want to use this as the "amp", but someone I know that knows more about headphones than me, said this can damage the headphones. Because these old receivers might have unstable voltages or something. I was skeptical and try to look online for answers but didn't find anything relevant

939
 
 

I guess I never paid attention to it before but I measured out my ears and my left one is definitely a protruding ear. I just recently brought an SHP 9600 hoping the huge ear cup size would be the comfort I was seeking all this time but not even it can help me. My left ear is constantly irritated and touch the wall of the ear cup. Does anyone else have this issue? This is is probably a silly and idiotic idea but I was thinking of taping the edges of my ear down when I want to use headphones so I can fit it inside the ear cup. Is this a bad idea? I’m really desperate at this point but I have no more money to spend after buying the headphones and I doubt there is a headset that will help me at this point.

940
 
 

Hey all. I've had the Sony mx3 and 4 , a drop panda and a bose qc35. All of them broke within a a year and the problem is the joint connecting the cup and band keeps on breaking. I am blaming it on my big head.

Any advice on what should be my next headset? Ill be buying insurance next time if i can't find any good and sturdy wireless headphones.

941
 
 

I bought my gf a Meze 99 Neo as her upcoming Christmas gift. She's not an audiophile nor am I, but she definitely listens to a lot more music than I do.

The headphones are intended as an upgrade to her AirPods Pro for listening to music at the office.

I'm debating whether she would really benefit from a Schiit stack (Modi2+Magni2) that I could buy second hand, mainly because I've read the DAC in the latest generation MacBooks and iPhones are actually not bad at all and a 100 USD DAC won't beat it... How true is that? I would simply get her the 9 USD USB-C to 3.5mm adapter (https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/review-apple-vs-google-usb-c-headphone-adapters.5541/)

Again, she's not an audiphile and I would believe that (1) on a pair of 99 Neo, (2) coming from AirPods, and (3) listening to lossless (24-bit/48kHz) a Schiit stack is overkill. Yes?

Appreciate everyone's thoughts.

942
 
 

Were u able to use a dac amplifier with an iPhone 14? My iPhone 14 have lighting and I use a dongle to connect it with hifi earphones

And I want to use a dac amplifier- lotoo paw s2 dac amplifier has usb c

943
 
 

Is the Senn 800s the end game or is it hype? I mean, it sounds like a great pick for classical, chamber music, acoustic, and jazz but for an everyday is it really all that?

944
 
 

Comment some other great deals if you find any, much appreciated!

Stack some other codes for better deals. DEAL10 provides $10 off, other Ali codes here: https://couponsfromchina.com/aliexpress-coupons/

Letshuoer S12 Pro for $90: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805023737183

Kinera Golden Idun 2.0 for $107: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805683330757

Moondrop Kato for $135: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804366163840

Juzear Flame for $111: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805457185510

Dunu Talos for $154: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804590185965

QOA Aviation for $150 : https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805973675459

Kinera Pandamon for $30: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805299296797

Tangzu Fudu for $51: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804173825426

Truthear Hexa for $64: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804743479173

Truthear Zero Red for $44: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805402959525

EPZ G10 for $30: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805423886165

945
 
 

I'm assuming the price is because of the 11.11 sales but still seems a bit odd to me

https://preview.redd.it/nqwj289g2fzb1.png?width=1632&format=png&auto=webp&s=8efbb4875adc2b6cfd9a8abf585555f382bad080

946
 
 
947
 
 

I recently purchased a Fiio BTR5. I want something that works for portability connecting to my phone, and something I can use on my desktop for high-powered headphones when I invest in those. I have no real complaints other than the battery, which is what I'm coming here to talk about.

The device cannot be used solely on USB power. It *must* charge and be charging to be used, or it will drain the internal battery. I turned off the charging to use it with my PC and about an hour in it shut off. It completely drained the internal battery. It can be used while charging, so not much inconvenience, I am just concerned about the longevity of the battery constantly living with a full charge, then only being drained when being used with my phone.

I have a few days to return this and get an alternative for a similar cost, if it exists. Any recommendations?

The other big thing I appreciate about it is I can adjust the volume individually from the system which is nice for my setups as I often have several audio devices setup, so adjusting volume across several pairs of headphones can be tricky on Linux.

948
 
 

I am new to the chifi scene - any chance top tier IEMs like the Monarch mk3 will be part of any Black Friday sales?

949
 
 

How do you all explain to people why you want multiple pairs of headphones? Do you go for the "I'm a collector" route or do you go for the "no but they're all different and have different uses" route?

Because my family is very confused as to why I want multiple headphones and honestly can only explain it as a "because I really like them"

950
 
 

Hi all,

Received the Fiio FT5 from AliExpress on Monday, and I think I was expecting so much more. I had the FT3; loved the sound, but the earpads were just too small to be comfortable.

No expert on explaining sound, but they just sound... muddy. Has anyone else received theirs yet?

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