AngryDragonoid1

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.

Currently my two favorite pairs of headphones I own.

The Mezes are extremely comfortable and look amazing. They quality of the cables and materials, carrying case making them fear-free for carrying to and from work, and the fun sound quality are all amazing.

The Grados are a third of the cost, but at also pretty comfortable and have good build quality for everything except the earcup swivel. The plastic on it is a little cheap and it squeaks occasionally. Sadly, I believe all of their headphones, even the more expensive options, have that same bracket.

However, as the Grados are on-ears and the Mezes are over-ears, there is a massive difference in comfort. The Mezes could be worn for days on end with no discomfort. The self-adjusting headband and large earcups add to it. Today is about the 2nd day I've worn the Grados consistently. Wearing them around the house for chores and at my computer - probably upwards of 8-hours a day total worn time. They are not nearly as comfortable. I have mild pain on my ears. Putting on the Mezes for the rest of the day, they are immediately so much more comfortable. However, I also noticed a major difference in quality.

The Grados are so much more precise than the Mezes, from what I can tell. The latter is more bassy compared to the Grados, and because they're closed back they seem to have narrower sound-stage. Not a surprise to anyone.

Just an observation I had today. I will likely be getting the Grado SR325X next as they seem to fit my aesthetic best while remaining Grados. The SR80Es will be reserved for guests at my PC when enjoying media.

If anyone has been on the fence about the Grados, I highly suggest them. I'm not sure what the differences are between SR60E - SR225E. The descriptions seem fairly similar to each other. I figure the SR60Es would be good enough for most just starting out in this hobby. They are so light the discomfort takes so long to set in, and I am constantly so excited to start using them again. If you've been thinking about grabbing a pair, go for it.