1. s p e c i a l f e at u r e ssummit-Fi THE PINNACLE OF AUDIoPHILE PERFORMANCEnsor poiersheadphone amps getting the Full experience urp r emnew for summerit o visgaming headphones get in the game

2. Head-Fi is the online HQ for headphone &personal audio enthusiasts.Founder & EditorHead-Fi would like to extendHead-Fi.org special thanks to our sponsors:JUDE MANSILLAnu FORCECreative DirectorHuddler, Inc.alo audioTONY GLORIOSOv-modaSales & MarketingHuddler, Inc. JH AudioCONNER CALLAHAN Head-DirectMoon AudioEditorial AssistantHead-Fi.org FiioJoe Cwikaudioflylab kablEEditorial & Partner SupportHuddler, Inc. AsusNICK VALLURIAudeze 2012, Huddler.com.Head-Fi.org is a Huddlercommunity. 3. 2Founders Letterjude mansilla After we first published the Head-Fi Holiday Gift Guide, some people asked me if I could make it more accessible, particularly for non-Head-Fiers who might happen upon it. And while I may think of ways to do that in future updates, the Head-Fi Gift Guide is mostly for the more diehard Head-Fiersthe ones who probably wont need to look up the definition of IEM, 24/192, DAC, FLAC, XLR, or opamp. Of course, Id be thrilled if non-Head- Fiers also find the guide interesting, but at its core, this gift guide is for us, the denizens of the Head-Fi communitythe hardcore headphone audio enthusiasts. With each update (and were planning on doing at least two updates per year), new products will be added to the guide; and some may also be removed, as theyre value-bumped by the introduction of better such products, or discontinued. And, again, the Head-Fi Gift Guide is in no way intended to be an encyclopedia of all the worlds headphone hi-fi products; but, rather, a look at some of this communitys favorite products as gift ideas. And, in most cases (unless otherwise indicated), the products in the guide will be products I have direct experience using and listening to. I hope you find the Head-Fi Gift Guide helpful and fun! Best Regards, Jude Mansilla Founder, Head-Fi.org 4. 45over-earheadphonesBE HEARD.20 in-earheadphones From new breeds teeming withaudiophile potential, to old classics36 wirelessheadphones we know and love, this selection ofover-the-ear headphones will keep40 headphoneampsyour favorite tracks playing loud (& other gear) and clear.62 summitfi featurettes18 gamingheadsets46 powercorner44 headphonecables51 desktopaudio59 portabledevices 05page74 5. 67Sony MDR-V6 Sony MDR-ZX700Closed, full-size, on-the-ear headphone (around $65)Closed, full-size, on-the-ear headphone (around $120)www.sony.comwww.sony.comIf youre wondering why this headphone is included in the guide, call it a bit of sentimentality from methe Sony The MDR-ZX700s bass is energetic, yet controlled, which is a trait I dont think is common enough in affordable closedMDR-V6 was the headphone that got me started on this long, winding headphone hi-fi journey back in the 1980s.headphones. The MDR-ZX700s mids and highs are resolving without being edgy.Is it the best at the price? No, and hasnt been in a long time. You can find headphones that isolate more, sound moreIf youve heard the Shure SRH440, but felt it on the colder side of your tonal preferences, then the Sonys more authoritativerefined, have better detail retrieval, etc. bass (and a slightly warmer tilt than the Shure) might be more your speed.Yeah, its old, but its still a rugged, well-isolating, fun, bright, lively sounding headphone with good bass extensionI consider the MDR-ZX700 a sort of modern spin by Sony on its classic Sony MDR-V6a more current, affordable closedand impact. The MDR-V6 (and its pro-audio twin, the Sony MDR-7506) is still widely used in studios and on-locationheadphone, and another classic in the making.as a pro monitoring piece.The bass-midrange balance of the ZX700 is a bit better than that of the V6, making the transition appear smoother andThis many years later, I still like the classic ol V6, and still feel comfortable recommending it from time to time.the general signature more balanced. Indeed, I couldnt think of a better term for the overall sound of the ZX700 than well-blended as the sound signature really does sit better with me than the sum of its parts.... Punchy and warm but ...the V6 has aged very well... It is well-built, comfortable, and isolating enough to compete with the best modernwith excellent resolution and a strong midrange presence, the Sonys make for good all-rounders... the sound signaturestudio and DJ headphones. simply works when taken as a whole. Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerl Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerlGrado SR-60i and Grado SR-80iOpen, full-size, on-the-ear headphones (around $60 and $80, respectively)www.gradolabs.comWhy have I listed both the Grado SR-60i and the SR-80i? Because, so often, SR-60i owners end up quickly upgradingto the SR-80i.After many years being happy with the Sony MDR-V6, the Grado SR-60 and SR-80 represented the next steps in myHead-Fi journey. These entry-level Grado headphones have probably created more headphone audiophiles than anyother headphone models, for their affordability, for their accessibility at many audio retail locations, and for their lively Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $160)presentations. www.audio-technica.comThe Grado SR-60i and Grado SR-80i sound immediately impressive, addictive, especially to those who arent alreadyIm including the closed-back ATH-M50 in this guide because it is a very stronggrizzled Head-Fi veterans. favorite in this price range with Head-Fiers, known for solid overall performance at the price, with a tendency toward bass emphasis and sparkly treble. I see fewIve gifted several sets of Grado SR-60i and SR-80i headphones, and theyve been met with great smiles and headphones recommended as often by our community, both for starters looking for aenthusiasm every single time.good entry into Head-Fidom, as well as for seasoned Head-Fiers looking for a good closed around-the-ear headphone. The best thing about the Grados is that they dont try to be a jack of all trades. They are absolutely stunning for whatthey are; clear, detailed, bright, and aggressive Rock cans. As far as I am concerned the SR60i really is one of the The ATH-M50 is one of those rare products where the quality/price ratio really hitsbest all-around values in personal audio. the sweet spot, and in fact is like a small miracle in the world of pro audio. When you Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerl get Grammy Award-winning audio engineers and producers like George Massenburg, The Grado SR80 is a classic headphone. It has a classic style... It has been around virtually unchanged for years. ItFrank Filipetti, Al Schmitt, etc., singing its praises publicly, you know its got to beis a superb entry to audiophile headphone listening.something special. Head-Fi member/reviewer Prog Rock Man Head-Fi member/reviewer Rob Chang (Lunatique) 6. 89Sennheiser HD 558 and Sennheiser HD 598Bose QuietComfort 15Open, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $190 and $250, respectively) Closed, full-size, active-noise-canceling, around-the-ear headphone ($299)www.sennheiser.com www.bose.comFor a nice open-backed full size headphone in this price range, Sennheisers HD 558 is one of the best choices Ive come The Bose QuietComfort 15 has the most effective active noise cancellation circuit Ive yet used; and, for an active noiseacross. Lightweight, and well padded, the HD 558 is among the most comfortable headphones Ive owned (at any price), canceler, this headphone sounds pretty good, too. If the amount of active noise attenuation is your primary consideration, theand Ive owned a lot of headphones.QC15 would be my top recommendationits uncannily good in this regard.And, thankfully, the HD 558 sounds as good as it is comfortable, projecting a wide, open sonic image. Though its bassMusically, the QC15 sounds good, too; but, if youre used to ultra-high-end headphones (like ones we more typically discuss atpresentation is more on the neutral side, theres still a sense of fullness down low. Smooth, yet with outstanding detailHead-Fi in this price range), the QC15 is not likely to wow you with its musical output while sitting in a quiet room at your deskoverall, is how Id characterize this headphone. or in your easy chair. Use it in its element (plane, train, data center, any place with loud droning background noise), and its a very hard over-ear headphone to top.The HD 598 is like an HD 558 that went to sonic finishing schoolsimply put, its more refined. Most noticeable is thatthe HD 598s presentation is slightly more treble-tilted, and its bass more controlled. The HD 598s more polished sound Additionally, the Bose QC15 is exceptionally comfortable, even on my huge head, with its very moderate clamping force, verysignature is, to my ears, higher-end, and earns the difference in price between it and its mid-line sibling. soft cushy earpads, and light weight. The QC15 also folds very flat into its compact semi-hardside case, so its easy to pack.I also love the HD 598s entirely unique color schemeno other headphone Im aware of looks like it, with its cream- If youre type of person who travels a bunch, but cant get comfortable with in-ear headphones, then the QC15 has to be addedcolored leather-like chassis, and dark brown faux burl wood trim and velour ear cushions.to your must-try list. As far as over-ear headphones go, the Bose QC15 is my current first choice for international travel. There is just too much to like about the HD598. I classify it as the best all-rounder, multi-purpose headphone that I have ever had the privilege to listen to. Its just one of those headphones that are a joy to own, because there is always something that it can be great at. And its flexible enough that it can *always* be used for something, if not everything. Skullcandy Roc Nation Aviator Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphones (around $150) Whether using it for its superb long term comfort, utilizing its expansive soundstage to gain an edge in gaming, or justwww.skullcandy.com simply to enjoy tunes with its very special sound signature; the HD598 is sure to impress just about anyone in some aspect or another. Quite the achievement by Sennheiser if you ask me.The Skullcandy Aviator, in my opinion, is one of the coolest looking headphones on the head, though it takes some youthful Head-Fi member Katunspirit to pull it off. Sonically, I think the Aviator holds its own as a portable headphone, even at $150, with its surprisingly even-handed presentation (surprising considering rapper Jay Z had something to do with it), and a nice open sound. That openness comesPSB M4U 2at the expense of isolation, which the Aviator is devoid of (despite technically being a closed headphone)so, in terms ofClosed, full-size, active-noise-canceling, around-the-ear headphone ($399) isolation, assume it similar to an open headphone.www.psbspeakers.comI prefer the Aviators better when it comes to overall sound quality/clarity. Especially if youre listening to rock/acoustic/Paul Bartons company (PSB) is well known with audio enthusiasts as a loudspeaker company whose products typicallyalternative... They also scale up with a better source and are light and comfortable...perform well above their price points. When I found out Barton wanted to turn his attention to headphones (as anincreasing number of loudspeaker manufacturers are doing), he had my attention.Head-Fi member Roma (Roma101)The M4U 2 is an impressive first go at headphones for Barton. First of all, it also operates passively, and in this mode theM4U 2 sounds very good, with some well-executed low bass emphasis, and good clarity throughout. The M4U 2 also has Skullcandy Mix Master Mikean amplified mode without active noise canceling, which could come in handy if all youve got on hand is a particularlyClosed, full-size, around-the-ear headphones (around $250)anemic headphone output. This amplified mode has a lively sound, but at the expense of a little self-noise from thewww.skullcandy.comamp circuit, and some loss of clarity (compared to its passive mode). The M4U 2s active noise canceling circuit is good(though definitely not as effective as the Bose QC15s). And, again, like Sennheisers active noise-cancelers (and unlikeThe Mix Master Mike is a DJ-type headphone (designed in conjunction with its legendary DJ namesake), with a couple of uniqueBoses), the M4U 2 also operates passively, so that when your batteries die, youre music need not be cast aside.features. DJs often do one-ear listening, so the Mix Master Mike sums both channels to mono when either earpiece is rotated for one-ear listening. The single-side headphone cable can be plugged into either the left or right earpiece. And theres a mute button.The biggest downsides for me are the M4U 2s size (its large) and the fact that it doesnt fold flat (so the carrying caseis bulky). And, though the M4U 2 is rather comfortable on my huge head, it doesnt feel as light and gentle on the headThe Mix Master Mikes prominent (but not overwhelming) bass, good mids, and softer treble, all combine nicely for an(in terms of both weight and clamping force) as the QC15. It also has an imposing look on the head--rather heavy and easy-to-listen to sound signature that is modestly detailed. Overall, I think the Mix Master Mike is the most refined soundingsevere looking.Skullcandy headphone so far. Build quality seems good, but rather plasticky in the hand. The Mix Master Mike might be a tough sell, though, to Head-Fiers at $250, a price point at which many outstanding headphones reside. But I think its a worthy full-Simply put, with its active modes turned off, the PSB M4U 2 is a good 32-ohm closed headphone that responds well size closed headphone consideration, even at the price.to good portable and desktop amps, and yet can still be driven well directly from my iPhone 4S. Its self-amplified andactive noise canceling modes are nice bonuses. If youre in the market for a good over-ear travel headphoneand soundquality is your primary concernthe PSB M4U 2 should definitely be placed on your list of candidates. 7. 1011Shure SRH440Closed, around-the-ear headphone (around $100) V-MODA Crossfade M-80 and Crossfade LP2Packaging and accessories are brilliant. Build www.shure.com Closed, portable...M-80 is on-the ear, and the LP2 is around-the-earquality is top notch and very fitting for a portable (both around $200) A closed-back, pro-audio-oriented headphone, the SRH440 has found popularity for studio use. However, many model. Comfort, a subjective thing to be sure, isaudiophiles also appreciate its more neutral tonal balance, the SRH440 having none of the bass bloat that many of its www.v-moda.com better (for me) than any similar type of headphone closed competitors have. Though a full-size headphone, it folds into a pretty compact, portable bundle. In the past year, V-MODAs M-80 has earned a place as one of the top choices for a closed, portable, around-the-ear headphone (alongside the likes of the Ive ever tried. These things alone add up to aAt its street price of around $100, I think the Shure SRH440 is one of the better bargains in Head-Fidom, particularly Sennheiser HD 25-1 II and the beyerdynamic DT 1350).great user experience, even if that was all thebecause it can be challenging to find a good, affordable, neutral-ish closed headphone. The M-80s sound signature includes rich, detailed mids, accompanied by M-80s had going for them... And then theres the If you are looking for great closed headphones and are on a budget, my vote is for the Shure SRH-440 and no other. smooth treble response, and full bass (with emphasis placed where I think any sound. Large, solid, impactful bass that mostly Head-Fi member/reviewer gelocks bass emphasis should be, which is down in the deep-bass region). Its a sound signature that many audiophiles have found very easy to love, and with enough stays well controlled. Warm, full mids that make of a down-low kick to also satisfy the more typical non-Head-Fier consumer tastes. (I find most non-audiophile consumers tend to prefer bass emphasis to any genre seem engaging. And a smooth balanced beyerdynamic DT 1350Closed, portable, on-the-ear headphone (around $300) neutrality.)top end that is reasonably detailed but extremelynorth-america.beyerdynamic.com forgiving of poor material or equipment. I enjoy On sonics alone, I think the M-80 is entirely in HD 25-1 II and DT 1350 territory. these. A lot. Even at home when I have plenty of On sound alone, the beyerdynamic DT 1350 is my current favorite closed, portable around-the-ear headphone. Sonically, I That the M-80 sounds so good and looks so stylish is a huge win. I think its one ofsimply couldnt expect much more from something this compact, as the DT 1350 sounds to me like a very good full-sized, the headphones that will force the makers of its more conservatively styled (read: better options, these are still fun to listen to. That closed around-the-ear headphone. staidly styled) competitors to take notice.seems like a successful product to me. This little beyerdynamic also seems durable enough to easily withstand the physical abuse of being crammed into my The full-size Crossfade LP2 is a refinement of V-MODAs Crossfade (which, bybackpacks and messenger bags. The DT 1350 is part of beyerdynamics flagship Tesla line. Though it was designed as a the way, is still available), taming the original Crossfades very heavy bass, and Head-Fi member/reviewer John Grandberg (project86)pro audio headphone, it still may be the most audiophile-friendly closed, portable around-the-ear Ive heard. adding in more present, more detailed treble. Despite the refinements (relative to the original Crossfade), the LP2 is still a bass-heavy headphone, and a fineFor portable use, its important to note that the DT 1350s plug housing is rather large (more like a full-size headphones choice for a travel headphone for those who dont like in-ears or active noise-plug); and that it does not come with portable-use accoutrements like inline remote or a headset mic. Yes, Id love to cancelers. (In noisy environments, I like some bass emphasis, to help strengthenhave those features, but, still, its sound quality currently puts the DT 1350 in my on-the-go bag very frequently. the sense of rhythm through the din.) Superb build quality and unprecedented isolation meet sound quality that can rival the best portable headphones Like the original Crossfade, the Crossfade LP2 is a full-size around-the-ear Ive heard and many full-size sets. The construction is nothing short of bulletproof and - soundstage size aside - the headphone, and is very comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. In DT1350 is technically the best truly portable headphone Ive come across, boasting superb detail and clarity, excellent addition to their stunning looks, both the M-80 and LP2 are built very tough, and bass control, and a level signature. should withstand much abuse. And, recently, V-MODA has improved its three- button remote/mic cable significantly, separating the mic unit from the remoteHead-Fi member/reviewer ljokerl (for ergonomic improvement) and improving sound quality on both the send and receive sides. (This new cable is called the SpeakEasy cable.)Fischer Audio FA-003Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $180)www.fischeraudio.comA very well-regarded, affordable closed headphone on Head-Fi.org, Ive only heard the FA-003 briefly (and it made a greatfirst impression). While I await more personal experience with this headphone, heres what veteran Head-Fi member,reviewer, re-masterer LFF had to say about it: They are light, comfy and sound fantastic. These are mastering grade headphones and I wouldnt hesitate for one second to recommend them for such critical sound applications. The sonic picture the FA-003s painted time after time never failed to impress me. Head-Fi member/reviewer Luis Flores (LFF) 8. 12 13 Sennheiser HD 25-1 II and HD 25-1 II Originals Sennheiser PX 90 and PX 200-II Closed, portable, on-the-ear headphone (around $180 to $250) Portable, on-the-ear headphones www.sennheiser.com (PX 90 is open, PX 200 is closed. Priced around $30 and $90, respectively)www.sennheiser.com One of the all-time headphone hi-fi classics, the Sennheiser HD 25-1 II is still the top choice for a closed, portable on-the-ear headphone for many Head-Fiers. Its one of my all-time favorites in that category.The Sennheiser PX 90 has a charming, no-frills design. With the simplest of headbands, affixed to which are equally unadorned openearpieces, the PX 90 reminds me of the legendary (and equally stark) HD 414. With robust bass, relatively neutral mids, and a lively treble, the HD 25-1 II is definitely on the fun side of the audiophile-type sound signatures.What you get for around $30 with the PX 90 is an elegant, well-balanced sounding headphone thats great for on-the-go use. If youre aHead-Fier with several people on your gift list youd like to introduce to Head-Fidom, the PX 90 is an excellent, affordable choice. With an extremely tough build (yet still lightweight), the Sennheiser HD 25-1 II remains a popular DJ headphone for its bombproof durability, outstanding isolation, and retro-hip utilitarian looks. And if you want one of the The PX 200-II is an easy go-to for a portable around-the-ear headphone under $100 with a more neutral sound signature. If youve found grooviest looking portable headphone choices around, pick up the Originals version, which is a special adidasmost portable around-the-ears too bass-heavy for you, put the PX 200-II at the top of your list, especially if you want something ultra- co-branded edition--same headphone, but with very cool, sporty adidas blue stripes, cable, and pads. portable. A closed, on-the-ear design, the PX 200-II provides good passive noise isolation, too.These cans are tried and true, with a great all-rounder sound. Good energy throughout, the bottom end (The PX 200-II is now also available with a three-button remote/mic cable, and that model is the PX 200-IIi, and is priced around $110.) provides a nice driving rhythm and the top end is tuned for just the right amount of shimmer with hi hats.The PX200-II therefore has all the hallmarks of a critical and commercial success usability, excellent sonic characteristics, and aHead-Fi member/reviewer Armaegis respected name to back it all up - and will likely become more popular than the famed PX100 in the near future... Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerlHiFiMAN HE-400 Sennheiser AmperiorOpen, full-size, around-the-ear headphone ($399) Closed, portable, on-the-ear headphone (around $350) www.hifiman.us www.sennheiser.comI wondered when something would come round to challenge the Sennheiser HD 600 and HD 650 for my top pick in the sub-$500 sit-down, Despite the new name, theres no denying that the new Amperior by Sennheiser was born of the Sennheiser HD high-end headphone category, and that something is the HE-400 planar magnetic headphone by HiFiMAN. Listen to this headphone, 25 line of headphones--I mean, just look at it. And if you consider the Amperior a new addition to the HD 25 and its $399 price tag will have you wondering if its price was mismarkedlike you found something in the clearance bin that wasnt family, then its the best sounding HD 25 Ive yet heard. The occasional tendency of the HD 25-1 II to be treble-supposed to be there. peaky has been done away with in the Amperior. The Amperior also refines the HD 25s bass, exhibiting greater control and definition. That the Amperior has a nominal impedance of only 18 ohms, and is quite sensitive, If the HD 600 and HD 650 arent pressing your sparkly-treble hot-button, the HE-400 probably will. Bringing to bear a lot of what makes makes it easy to drive straight from your phone or media player. No amp? No problem. Not surprisingly, the the higher-end planar magnetic headphones by HiFiMAN and Audeze so specialbut with a bargain price, and enough sensitivity to be Amperior has become one of my favorite grab-and-go over-ear headphones.driven by an iPhone 4S in a pinchthe HE-400 is one of the easiest sub-$500 recommendations to make right now. Construction quality feels every bit as solid as the HD 25s before it. Actually, its substantial use of metal makes Soaring, shimmering treble, and a greater sense of overall speedcertainly more so than any over-ear in this price range that Ive it feel even more unyielding than the HD 25s before it. Its machined solid aluminum earcups feel bulletproof, heardare the HE-400s hallmarks. and look very cool, in either blue or silver. My only real quibble with the Amperior is that it comes with a 3-button remote/mic accessory dongle--Id have preferred that its cable instead had an in-line, built-in version. Also, like beyerdynamics DT 1350, the Creative Labs Aurvana Live! Amperiors plug housing is quite large. But these are just minor quibbles with a headphone that sounds and Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $70) looks so darn good.www.creative.com A worthy addition to the legacy of the HD 25 family, I think the Sennheiser Amperior is going to be a blockbusterCreative Labs has been discussed a lot on Head-Fis forums, particularly their audio/MIDI interface products. Of their slew of headphone headphone with high-end headphone enthusiasts.products, though, one routinely shines through with frequent member recommendations, and thats the Creative Aurvana Live. ...the CAL!s are bass-heavy headphones with a very rich-sounding midrange and a warm tonality. However, the Creatives boast better clarity in the (far less forward) midrange and a more dimensional sound - the soundstage has some depth in addition to the width. They are more laid back and balanced and at the same time a little faster when the music calls for it. The bass is textured, fairly well-controlled, and surprisingly deep (capable of dropping below 30Hz). Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerl 9. 14 15 Bowers & Wilkins P5 Mobile Koss PortaPro and BlueAnt EmbraceOpen, portable, on-the-ear headphones (around $40 for standard version, and around $80 for the KTC version)www.koss.com Closed, portable, on-the-ear headphones ($299 and $199) www.bowers-wilkins.comTheres something--a certain je ne sais quoithat makes Koss PortaPro timeless. Its not just its looks, as looks alone www.myblueant.commight render the mighty PortaPro dated (though theres no denying its vintage aesthetic is part of its charm). Another good around-the-ear passive isolator is the ber-stylish Bowers & Wilkins P5 Mobile.This is a bassy headphone, and its bass defines it--heavy, just shy of sloppy by audiophile standards, but always fun. The P5 looks like something crafted by Swiss watchmakers. The P5 is so luxurious that yourDespite its bassiness, the PortaPro still manages to sound coherent. Its mids and highs are good, but if youre looking for fingers never come in contact with anything but metal or soft leather.a mid-centric and/or bright headphone, youre going to have to look elsewhere. Also, if youre a detail freak, walk past thePortaPro. And the P5s style continues with its appearance when worn, its lines elegant and graceful, but bold enough to be tastefully noticeable.This year, Koss also released a version of the PortaPro called the PortaPro KTC (Koss Touch Control), which has an inlinethree-button remote/mic. As an iPhone/iPad/iPod user, the KTC version has become my PortaPro of choice. I was surprised How does the P5 sound? It doesnt quite have the sound quality and detail of the topto see Koss give such a concession to smartphone modernity with a headphone as old school as the PortaPro, but Im audiophile portables, but it still sounds very good, with a sonic signature best described asthrilled they did. Heres the rub, though: expect to pay at least $30 to $40 more for the KTC version, which Im guessing is smooth. The Bowers & Wilkins P5 does provide extremely effective noise isolation (passively),probably due to licensing costs associated with using the made-for-Apple three-button mic/remote design. inline controls and headset microphone, and so is a fantastic, voguish travel headphone.Looking for fun sound on the go? And served up with retro-hip style? Put the Koss PortaPro on your list. Following is a quote from my review of the Bowers & Wilkins P5:The PortaPro is an age old design, but has held up over the years, despite newer portable cans coming along. Perhaps it is the very age of the design that keeps people coming back to it... The sound is fun. The PortaPros have a nice, punchy The P5s artisanal materials, fit, finish and style make sound, and great bass for a small supra-aural set of phones.for a headphone that many of its owners will be proudHead-Fi member/reviewer TheWussto own. Its delicate lines and light weight belie itsvault-strong construction. Almost a year later, and IKoss PRODJ100still love handling and wearing the P5. Something thisClosed, full-size, portable, around-the-ear headphone (around $80)gorgeous, this well crafted, does instill that sense of www.koss.compride of ownership that one might feel owning, say, a Based on recommendations in Head-Fi community discussions, Im glad I finally experienced this headphone for myself, as its not just one of the best value Koss headphones Ive heard, I think its one of the better headphone values in the sub-beautiful wristwatch.$100 range, regardless of manufacturer.Was this headphone designed with DJs in mind? Yes. Theres even a switch on it that lets you sum both channels to mono, That the stunning looking P5 is such a huge hit isnt the least bit surprising to me. Ifor one-ear listening. But do not let that DJ label trick you into thinking the PRODJ100 is a boomy, bloated headphone, as absolutely love this headphone, for what it is.DJ designated headphones more typically tend to be. The bass is impactful, but in no way overdone. If $299 is just too much a stretch for you--but the allure of the P5 is too strong to resist-- consider the BlueAnt Embrace, which I suspect may have been inspired by the P5.The PRODJ100 is a headphone that does a lot of things very well, even if it doesnt (to my ears) do anything exceptionallywell. Youll be hard pressed to find another sub-$100 headphone that is so well-rounded, and so able to easily satisfy such From the standpoint of design, the Embrace looks like the P5s more conservative, less a wide variety of listening preferences. If the Shure SRH440 is a bit light in the bass for you, try the Koss PRODJ100. Are extravagant sibling. The leather used on the Embrace isnt as fancy or supple as the P5s, but the entry-level Grados a little too lively up top for you? Try the PRODJ100. You know what, just try the PRODJ100 regardless the Embraces padding in the headband and earpads is more abundant, and super cushionyof whatever other relatively affordable headphones you were already considering. its earpads are like fluffy pillows. I have to give the Embrace the edge in comfort.The best thing about this headphone is the quality of vocals. It just sounds amazing with both male and female vocals...You In terms of sound, I prefer the P5s brand of smoothness to the Embraces, although the feel like youre right there. Embraces warm signature (with mid-bass emphasis) and reasonable level of detail is both pleasant and fun. For its first foray into premium wired headphones, the Embrace is anHead-Fi member/reviewer tdockweiler impressive effort by BlueAnt (a company known for its Bluetooth headsets). 10. 16 Phiaton MS400 Philips CitiScape Downtown, Philips CitiScape Uptown, and Philips Fidelio L1 Closed, portable, around-the-ear headphone (around $230)CitiScape Downtown: Closed, full-size, on-the-ear headphone (around $150) www.phiaton.com CitiScape Uptown: Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $150) Fidelio L1: Semi-open, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $300) Phiaton makes some of the most striking looking headphones, and the MS 400 is, to my eyes, the most fetching of their many eye-catching designs. In a world littered with faux carbon fiber, Phiaton elected to use real carbon fiber, along with www.philips.com an abundance of striking Ferrari-esque red leather. Fortunately, the MS400 also sounds good.Lets go waaay back to 2011, when Head-Fi turned a hearty ten years leaking out to bother those nearby. I havent examined or inquired old. Up to that point, in millions of posts, in untold thousands of to find out exactly how it works, but MusicSeal does work (and also Ive worn dozens of different headphones to work in the past several years and none of them gathered as dense of a threads, in ten years of online headphone chatter, Philips rarely cameworks to provide good isolation from outside noise). And both thestream of interest, comments, and compliments as the Phiatons do. But of course even in a portable set sound quality up in our discussions. Almost never, actually. Then, at CES 2012, Downtown and the Uptown use flat, tangle-resistant fixed cables. Theshould come first and the smooth and easy-going sound of the MS400 is very appealing in a portable. Like Ultrasone from seemingly out of nowhere, Philips unveiled several headphonesDowntowns cable has an inline one-button remote/mic. The Uptownsand AKG, Phiaton seems to understand that bass notes are the first to get drowned out on a busy city street, and the that hit it out of the park. Were talking really good headphones here. cable also has an inline one-button remote/mic, but with theMS400 do a great job of compensating. Those in search of a more analytical signature should probably look elsewhere. Affordable. Awesome. Headphones.unfortunate addition of a useless analog super-short-throw slidingFor an involving, convenient, and strikingly beautiful audio experience on the go, however, the Phiatons come highly volume control. I have no idea how such a useless volume controlrecommended.The ones that wowed me the most were a few of their new over-earmade it past testing on the otherwise wonderfully executed Uptown, models. The first two are from an affordable premium line of urbanbut its hardly enough to dash my recommendation of it.Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerl headphones called CitiScape. The CitiScape Downtown (around $100) is a closed on-the-ear model very uniquely styled, with a headbandA huge piece of news, in my opinion, is that the Philips Citicape wrapped in a padded cloth that looks like an elegant cravat, andline is slated to appear in not just big box electronics stores, but earpieces wrapped in a nice synthetic leather. The look, inspired byalso through some major department stores. That kind of channel Sennheiser HD 600 and HD 650New York casual street style, is graceful, modish, and suitable for men presence is big news with headphones that sound this good. Open, full-size, around-the-ear headphones (around $400 and $500, respectively) and women alike. The Downtown is also one of the most comfortable www.sennheiser.comon-the-ear headphones Ive used.Fidelio is Philips flagship audio brand, and the Philips Fidelio L1 (around $300) is the first of the Fidelio headphones. The Fidelio L1 Is there a more widely owned and lauded pair of headphones than the Sennheiser HD 6XX series in the world of high-end The Downtown also sounds great, with a warmish tonal balance, but is, in my opinion, maybe the single best looking sub-$500 headphone audio? And all the acclaim for these headphones is absolutely deserved, earned over many years on the market. The still nicely detailed throughout. Bass is impactful, precise beyond on the market today. To my eyes, theres no angleon the head or Sennheiser HD 600 and HD 650 both have sonic performance that can scale so far up in world-class rigs, I struggled with the price point, and emphasized mildly. Mids are smooth and nicelyoff the headfrom which the Fidelio L1 doesnt look stunning. And whether or not to include them in the Summit-Fi (high-end audio) section instead. present. Treble is on the softer side, but theres enough of it to give it feels just as impressive, with extensive use of real leather, protein just a hint of sparkle. Closed though it is, the Downtown images well,leather and aluminum. The design is a near-perfect blend of modern Though detailed, both the HD 600 and HD 650 do not have the hyper detail that some of the newer breed of high-end too. At around $100, the Philips CitiScape Downtown is quite possibly and retro, and I still look admiringly at the L1 every single time I use it. dynamic headphones have. Still, when Im listening to them, I dont find myself longing for more (even though I knowmy favorite closed on-the-ear headphone at or under $100, providing headphones like its successor flagship HD 800 can certainly give me more).musicality and balance at a level well above its price, and with allComing from the left earpiece is a very short length of fixed cable to genres I listen to. which can be attached two different headphone cable options, one I think the magic of these headphones is that, in terms of detail and tonality, they can be like listening to goodplain, and one with a three-button remote/mic. By the way, the L1s loudspeakers, and theres instant comfort in that. Some find this overly laid-back, but Im not one of them.The Philips CitiScape Uptown (around $150) is the slightly upmarket three-button remote/mic cable is one of the best of its types that Ive sibling of the Downtown, and is a closed around-the-ear headphone.yet used, with easily distinguishable buttons, and nice positive clicks. As for what differentiates these two headphones, the HD 650 is the slightly warmer of the two, and yet I personally find it Like the Downtown, the Uptown is stylish, albeit with a completely(The Fidelio L1 cables are fabric-lined.) more refined than the HD 600, especially in the upper registers. Theres no question that there are more similarities thandifferent, retro-cool style. The abundance of synthetic leather is nice differences, so if youre already straining your budget, you can feel comfortable choosing the HD 600 to save some dough. looking, and attractively tufted on the headbands underside. The Fidelio L1s sound signature is definitely on the warmer side, but more refined, more polished than its CitiScape siblings. The L1s In my experience, getting the best out of the HD 600 and HD 650 absolutely requires the use of good headphone Tonally, the Uptown, like the Downtown, has a warmer tendency, butbass is well north of neutral, but controlled enough to keep a lot of amplification, so make sure to feed em right.does have the advantage of having a touch more sparkle in the treble. the audiophile types happy. The mids are bloomy and Like its sibling, the Uptown images nicely. Having used the Downtownsmooth; and the treble has nice presence (though Id prefer a more more at the beginning, switching to the Uptown revealed more of a extended sounding higher register). No, the Fidelio L1 is not a detail I quite like the Sennheiser sonic signaure, which many people refer to as being relaxed, or veiled. I think of it as being closed-cup resonance than is present with the Downtown. Its minorfreaks dream headphone, but still I find it, overall, a very satisfyingvery smooth and non-offensive. The treble and upper mids never get fatiguing or too bright, and the overall tonal balanceenough, though, that its easy to hear past as you get accustomed toheadphone to listen to.is very good, with nothing sticking out or recessed in any of the frequency ranges. the Uptown. Sonically, which do I prefer, the Downtown or Uptown? Truth be told, its a toss-up for me. I also really like the Uptown, andAs far as headphones go, this is definitely a breakout year for Philips.Head-Fi member/reviewer Rob Chang (Lunatique) recommend it easily at its $150 price, but I think the Downtown at only And, again, given the retail presence Philips has, these new headphones $100 is the even easier recommendation. are potentially very important for the industry, not just for Philips. Both the Downtown and the Uptown have a feature called MusicSeal, which is intended to keep the music in the headphone, and not 11. 18 19get in the game.Astro Gaming A30beyerdynamic MMX 300Closed, on-the-ear headset (around $130)Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headset (around $400)While my avid gaming days havewww.astrogaming.com www.beyerdynamic.comlong since passed, I still enjoygiving my laptops video card This imposing headset from beyerdynamic has earned many accolades with gamers everywhere, for combining thePopular with serious gamersboth amateurs and tournament players alikeAstro Gamings iconicsomething to overheat about fromsound quality and durability of beyerdynamics famed DT family of audiophile and pro audio headphones, along withflaghip, the enormous A40, is probably the single most recognizable gaming headset in the world. Fortime to time. Favoring first-person the expertise in headset communications from beyerdynamics aviation headset products.audio enthusiasts who only dabble in gaming, though, Id instead recommend the A40s littler sibling, theshooters, imaging is important;Astro Gaming A30.but as rusty as I am with games The MMX 300 is among the most serious looking of all the gaming headsets Ive seen. It may be built for somethingnowadays, its mostly so that I fun (gaming), but its styling seems to suggest very clearly that the MMX 300 is stony-faced serious about doing itsVersus the A40, the A30s sound signature, for music listening, is more balanced, more clear. And,know precisely from which direction job very well.actually, even for gaming, I prefer the littler Astro, in terms of imaging and clarity (especially throughdeath is raining down on me. (Ithe upper mids and treble). The only thing I personally favor the A40s more for is comfort, the A40 beingalso use the headsets for telephony Like the Astro A30, the MMX 300 is a closed headphone, but offers substantially more isolation than the A30 (and,around-the-ear, and the A30 being on-the-earbut, still, for an on-the-ear headphone, the A30 isand software speech recognition given its around-the-ear design, substantially more comfort, too). Its important to keep in mind that its also a verycomfortable.dictation.) large headset that doesnt fold flat, and, even though its case is nice, the MMX 300 is still going to take up a lot ofspace in your bag (assuming it fits in there at all).If youve seen the A40, you know that, even packed into its carrying case, its huge. The A30, however,Here are three headsets I feelfolds flat, and tucks nicely into a reasonably compact carrying case. The A30 is also just a little over halfcomfortable reccomending. The MMX 300 comes with a nice, small detachable in-line USB DAC with volume control and mute button. I like thesethe weight of the A40.USB converters (my Sennheiser PC 166 USB came with one), and wish all wired gaming headsets had them included.The design of the A30 is, to my eyes, very attractive for a headset, even with its boom microphoneMy experience with the MMX 300 is quite limited so far, but first impressions included just what Id have expectedattached. I also find it comfortable to wear for long sessions, although Id prefer earpad material with afrom beyerdynamic, which is excellent clarity, good bass, and brighter-than-neutral (but not edgy) top end. Also, thesofter touch on the skin.microphone on the MMX 300 has a wider frequency response than the A30s, so the sound from it is more broadband,more full, making the MMX 300 a candidate for podcasting duties.The A30s boom microphone is outstanding, specifically in terms of vocal clarity, which makes it greatnot just for communicating in a network gaming environment, but also for internet telephony, and speechI may have to add the MMX 300 to my arsenal as my primary closed headset of choice.recognition dictation. (I get uncanny accuracy with the A30s microphone with Dragon Dictate.) Itsimportant to note, however, that the A30s microphone is tuned specifically for voice clarity, and is not afull range microphoneI would not recommend it as a podcasting headset.Sennheiser PC 360 G4MEOpen, full-size, around-the-ear headset (around $250)www.sennheiser.comWhat a lot of Head-Fiers dont know is just how much experience Sennheiser has with communications products.They make countless products at the center of which is voice clarity. And, like beyerdynamic, Sennheiser also makeswell-regarded aviation headsets. Now take all of their experience with the aforementioned, and couple it to SennheiserHD5XX family sound. What do you have? A killer headset.If youve heard the Sennheiser HD 55X headphones, you have some idea of what to expect from the PC 360 in terms ofits sound signature with music. That kind of clarity and fidelity translates well to gaming, and its no surprise to seesome of the most serious gamers choosing audiophile-quality pieces by Sennheiser as their headsets of choice.Unfortunately, the PC 360 G4ME does not come with a USB adapter, which, again, I wish all premium wired headsetsincluded. Though I could live without it, Ill poach the one from my PC 166 USB to use with the PC 360 when I desireUSB connectivity.I expect the Sennheiser PC 360 G4ME will be my primary open headset of choice. 12. 21about Custom-Fitcustomin-ear 21 Ultimate Ears PersonalIn-Ear Monitors universalFIT 26 Reference MonitorClosed, custom-voiced custom in-ear monitors ($2,000)Like a bespoke suit, custom in-earwww.logitech.com/uemonitors (IEMs) are made just foryou, molded to the exact shape of A custom-fit IEM is custom-molded to your ears, so it will fit only one person in the world perfectlyyou.your ears (usually by an audiologist).One would think, then, that a custom-fit IEM is already as custom as it gets. Not anymore. Ultimate EarsAnd like a custom suit, custom IEMs recently released what might reasonably be called a custom custom-fit IEMone in which the physicalare exceptionally comfortable, andfit isnt the only thing customized to fit you, but also the sonic fit. Its called the Ultimate Ears Personalusually trs expensive. To my ears, Reference Monitor, and, as its name suggests, you tune it to your own personal sonic preferences.the best custom IEMs are some ofthe best sounding headphones of To accommodate this level of customization, a higher level of personal service is required. Once an orderany type currently available. for the Personal Reference Monitor is placed, the customer is assigned a personal service specialist toguide him through the fitting, design, and custom-tuning of the Personal Reference Monitor. The custom-Whichever custom you choose,tuning of the Personal Reference Monitor involves a sit-down session with a device called the Ultimateexpect to pay about an additional Ears Personal Reference Tuning Box. To start, there will be four locations in the U.S. equipped with the$50.00 to get molds of your earsPersonal Reference Tuning box, in Irvine (California), Los Angeles, Nashville, and New York City. If youmade at a local audiologist (that you dont happen to be lucky enough to be an easy trip away from one of these locations, Ultimate Ears iswill then send in to the IEM maker).currently working on making the tuning experience more accessible, in more places.Simply put, my right ear is better than my left one. My right ear has greater acuity through some of themids and treble than my left. It has been this way for years. Using the Personal Reference Tuning Box, Ituned my Personal Reference Monitor to help compensate for my left ears deficiency (versus my right).I also tuned the tonal balance to be neutralish, but with just a touch more bass than neutral, moreemphasis on the mids for greater midrange presence and bloom, and just a hairs breadth above neutralin the treble region. The resulting monitorsmy Personal Reference Monitoris now my favorite of allmy custom in-ear monitors, imaging better (perhaps because of the left-right compensation), and suitingmy preferences more closely than any other custom in-ear I currently have.I strongly recommend the Ultimate Ears Personal Reference Monitor for anyone whos wanted to trycompensating for differences between ones ears, and/or for anyone simply interested in reaching a higherlevel of customizability in custom in-ear monitors.(For more details about the product and the process, click here.) 21 13. 22 23 Ultimate Ears Custom In-Ear Reference MonitorFitEar MH334 Closed, custom in-ear monitors ($999)Closed, custom in-ear monitors ($1,800) www.logitech.com/uefitear.jp As UE (Ultimate Ears) puts it, the three-drivers-per-side Custom In-Ear Reference Monitor is designed for professionalI thought I was aware of all the top custom-fit IEM makers. On a recent trip to Tokyo, however, the gentlemen at Fujiya Avic studio engineers and producers for use during recording, mixing and mastering original music content. Other applications (a store every Tokyo-bound Head-Fier must visit) asked me to listen to a demo model of the FitEar MH334. To say the least, include front of the house venue tuning, live recording and mixing. This is also an excellent product for the audiophile orI was impressed with what I heard. The next day, at the Tokyo Headphone Festival (which is put on by Fujiya Avic), I was serious music listener because of its natural and authentic sound reproduction. fitted for my very own custom MH334. Given that description, it shouldnt be surprising that the IERM is the most neutral-sounding custom IEM Ive heard. BothWhen it arrived, the build quality was the first thing I noticed, including the flawless bubble-free transparent main bass extension and treble extension sound excellent to me, the entire audioband presented without emphasis. The IERM earpiece bodies and the well-dressed internal wiring. is one of my neutral references, and perhaps the most neutral of all my headphones (regardless of type). As such, it is my sonic palate cleanserafter listening to more colored gear for extended periods, I can always count on the IERM to remindWearing the MH334 revealed the best isolating custom-fit IEM Ive yet used. I dont know if its particularly outstanding me what neutral sounds like. isolation is due to a perfect fit, something specific to the MH334s construction, or both. Imaging is also one of its strengths, the IERM edging out most of the other custom IEMs I use, in terms of presenting aAnd the sound! Voiced by one of Japans top mastering engineers, the four-drivers-per-side MH334 is the best-sounding convincing, cohesive soundstage. IEM I have heard driven straight from my iPhone 4S (compared to others driven similarly), a nearly perfect blend ofrevealing and smooth, impactful and balanced. Im looking forward to also using it in a wide variety of externally-amped If youre in the market for a custom IEM, and pure neutrality is your goal, the IERM would be my first recommendation. portable rigs.All in all the UERM has a place among the other custom IEMs I have heard in the price range as it offers a reference Currently available only direct from FitEar, the only negative Ive got for the FitEar MH334 is its price, which, as of thissound with an exceptional presentation; a combo I have not heard up to this point in a custom IEM. Combine that withwriting, translates to $1908! Im hoping FitEar soon finds broader distribution, as they may be poised to shake things up inthe accessories and cable and the UERM stands up well with the competition.the custom-fit IEM market, if this MH334 is any indication.Head-Fi member/reviewer average_joeThe detail and imaging is fantastic. Head-Fi member/reviewer Sean (AnakChan) Westone ES5 Closed, custom in-ear monitors ($999) These are some of the most transparent and linear IEMs Ive experienced. These are not basshead IEMs. They are not www.westonemusicproducts.comcolored or fun, but rather extremely accurate in conveying a recording. You wont get a single bit of extra bass emphasis beyond what is there in a given track. That being said, tracks with a lot of bass are still rendered well, and I think the TG If your tonal preference is more toward neutral, but not entirely so, then Westones flagship five-drivers-per-side ES5 is a334 handles most genres with ease. fantastic choice. It is more neutral than the JH13 Pro, but with richer midrange than UEs IERM. In terms of detail retrieval, it is on par with the other flagships.Head-Fi member/reviewer MuppetFace Other major selling points of the ES5 include its comfort and isolation. Westones ES series of custom IEMs all have the Westone heat-activated flex canal, which makes my ES5 one of the most comfortable IEMs Ive worn. That soft tip also results in better isolation than most of my other custom-fit IEMs provide. Also, Westones ES5 packaging is second-to-none, with a Pelican case, and a very cool dessicant cylinder fitted to the interior of that case (to help keep your ES5 dry).I would without a doubt recommend the Westone ES5 to anyone looking for a well balanced high-end custom IEM as Ifeel they are simply breathtaking.Head-Fi member/reviewer Tronz 14. 24 25 JH Audio JH13 Pro and JH16 ProUnique Melody Merlin Closed, custom in-ear monitors (starting at $1,099 and $1,149, respectively)Closed, custom in-ear monitors ($779) www.jhaudio.com www.custom-iem.com Only three years old, but already a legend, JH Audios JH13 Pro is coming up against several new competitors in the cost- I havent yet heard anything made by Unique Melody. But the guys from UM came all the way from Australia to exhibit at no-object custom in-ear monitor realm, but its still the first custom IEM I recommend for those who arent quite sure what 2011 CanJam @ Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in Denver; and several people whose ears I trust did listen to their demos in their preferred sound signature is. Why? Because I find most people prefer mildly emphasized bass, which the JH13 Pro Denver and told me very good things about what theyd heard. has, along with neutral mids and treble, and quite possibly unmatched treble extension in an in-ear monitor. The JH13 Pro sports six balanced armature drivers per side.I felt compelled, then, to search the forums to see how Unique Melody was faring within our community, and the answer is very well, to say the least. The JH16 Pro is the go-to custom for those who want more strongly emphasized bass (emphasis that Jerry Harvey made sure to tune way down low, as it should be, and in such a manner that it leaves the mids virtually untouched). The JH16 One of their products that I find fascinating, in concept, is the Merlin custom-fit IEM. Sporting a driver combination I think Pro--because of that perfectly executed bass emphasis--is my go-to custom IEM for air or train travel, as extra bass is is entirely unique to it, the Merlin has five drivers per side, four of which are balanced armatures, and one of which is a big always welcome in the din of those environments.dynamic driver. The Merlin is promoted as a bit of a sidestep from [Unique Melodys] house sound signature and heads on into the world of unabated fun. The dynamic bass driver takes things down to 10Hz. Each JH16 Pro earpiece contains eight balanced armature drivers. Yes, eight. How Jerry Harvey coaxes complete cohesiveness from that many drivers (and, trust me, he does) is one of Head-Fis great mysteries, as far as Im concerned.At RMAF, one of my buddies, grinning big, said of the Merlin, Did you hear the bass on those things?! I didnt, but Ill be sure not to miss it next time.If you are in the market for a high-end headphone, stereo system, monitors for mixing, or custom IEMs, you shouldThis high end hybrid custom delivers on its promise of outstanding bass performance with very natural and wellconsider the JH Audio JH 13 Pro. The accuracy and stereo imaging you get with the JH 13 Pros are worth every penny you balanced mids and highs. Soundstage is phenomenal and the entire presentation is somewhat unique.can find. I know that the JH 13 Pro will make people rethink their collective headphones, if not customs in general - IHead-Fi member/reviewer John Grandberg (project86)know I have.Head-Fi member/reviewer Nicholas (Audiofiler)The JH16 gives new meaning to bass with a performance that combines enhancement with dynamics, detail, punch,speed, and rumble. Instrument detail is plentiful across the spectrum with an added liquidity to the vocal range and anenhancement in the upper mids/lower treble that accentuates the clarity. Soundstage width is great and competes with/bests similarly priced custom IEMs I have heard.Head-Fi member/reviewer average_joe 15. 26 WESTONE 4R Closed, in-ear monitor (around $500) www.westone.com The Westone 4R is one of my favorite universal-fit IEMs (in-ear monitors), especially when Im looking for a more tonally flat sound signature. And the 4Rs detail retrieval is outstanding from bottom to top. Across the audioband, the Westone 4R does not provide any specific area of emphasis, and certainly no over-emphasis. Bass extends low, but without any extra weight imparted by the 4R. Though detailed throughout, I find the 4Rs midrange detail to be one of its greatest strengths--again, without any emphasis imparted to achieve it. The treble balance is also excellent, with enough to provide some sparkle, but never enough to impart any edginess. The 4R also is very comfortable to wear, with a surprisingly compact chassis (considering there are four drivers per side). Like Westones other universal-fit IEMs, it sits very flat in the ear, which results in an IEM that can be worn while laying your head down. Put the Westone 4R at or near the top of your list if youre looking for a more neutral sound signature, but look elsewhere if you prefer tonal emphasis of any kind (like bumped-up bass), as thats not what this IEM is about. I have both the Westone 4 and the Westone 4R, and they sound the same to me. From what I can tell, the key difference is that the Westone 4s cable is permanently affixed, whereas the 4Rs cable is detachable.The new W4s find themselves at the top of BA universal heap, having Dynamic Driver quality timbre; Drums sound absolutelyamazing on the W4. If you are looking for superb balance and refined detail retrieval, give the Westone 4 a try!Head-Fi member/reviewer Shawn (Shotgunshane) Portable Headphone Amps Designed for IEMs www.ttvjaudio.com www.headamp.com www.raysamuelsaudio.comIn-ear monitors (whether universal-fit or custom-fit) often have a couple of thingsin common: high sensitivity and good isolation from ambient noise. This presentsan interesting challenge to those devices driving them.Whether an external headphone amplifier or the built-in headphone output ofyour digital audio player (be it a dedicated portable media player or smartphone),many IEMs will quickly reveal any noise in the audio chain, as well as anychannel imbalance (especially at the lowest part of the volume range).Three of most popular designed-for-IEM portable headphone amps in the Head-Ficommunity are the TTVJ Slim ($349), HeadAmp Pico Slim ($399), and theRay Samuels Audio Shadow ($395). These amps maintain perfect channelbalance at any volume level, and virtually background-noise-free performance.featured portable ampsAll three of these portable amps accomplish this with the use of stepped volume(from left to right)controls and special attention to low circuit noise.Ray Samuels Audio Shadow [The Pico Slim] is a very smooth and refined sounding portable, without anyHeadamp Pico Slim edge or grain, and good extension in the bass and treble.TTVJ Slim Head-Fi member/reviewer HeadphoneAddict 16. 28 never miss a beat Audiofly is about our first and only love, music. Were a team of designers, craftsmen and musicians with an old-school attention to detail; we Monster Miles Davis Trumpet and Monster Gratitudebuild premium products allowing you to experience music in its truest form. Closed in-ear monitors (around $350 and $200, respectively) www.monsterproducts.com If youve only listened to Monsters Beats line of headphones, you definitely have not heard the best headphones Monster has to offer. In my opinion, the Monster Miles Davis Trumpet is their current best. Many simply refer to it as the Trumpet, and the Trumpet has substantially trumped the Turbine Pro Copper, in my opinion, as the best of Monsters in-ear lineup. Some might consider the Trumpets styling gauche in its literalness. The outside ends of the earpieces arent merely influenced by a trumpets mouthpiece, they look just like Lilliputian trumpet mouthpieces. With some of the Trumpets included eartips, the main flange towards the ear looks like a trumpet with a mute inserted. Its three-button remote/mic buttons look like itsy-bitsy replicas of the buttons atop a trumpets valves. And, like a brand new trumpet, the Monster Miles Davis Trumpet is gleaming with polished metallic surfaces. Maybe its because its so out-there, maybe its because Im such a huge Miles Davis fan, but I love the way the Trumpet looks. The Trumpets design is unique beyond its appearance, too. It has a driver-forward design that pushes the Trumpets dynamic drivers out to the ends of the earpieces, closer to the inner ears. This shifts the weight forward, so that that the earpieces are less likely to break seal or fall out. Most importantly, Im impressed with the way the Trumpet sounds. It has, of all the headphones Ive heard so far from Monster, the most audiophile-friendly tonal balance. Bass extension is good; but, in a departure from most of Monsters other headphones, the Trumpet has comparatively mild bass emphasis (and with good extension). I also find its treble more refined than the Coppers. Soundstaging is also good, with a much wider presentation than I might otherwise expect from an in-ear that places its drivers deeper in the ears than most other dynamic driver in-ears do. Relative to the Copper, which I still enjoy, the Miles Davis Trumpet simply sounds more serious, less funand I mean that as a very positive nod in the Trumpets favor. If you want something more balanced than the Turbine Pro Copper, but with more bass emphasis and more fun than the Trumpet, then consider my second favorite Monster in-ear, the Monster Gratitude. Inspired by the music of Earth, Wind & Fire (and, of course, endorsed by them), the Gratitude might be the best value in the Monster line, and an outstanding value, period. To my ears, the Gratitude sounds like an evolution of the flagship Monster Turbine Pro models, but can generally be found for a significantly lower price than the Turbine Pro Gold, and far less than the Turbine Pro Copper. To me, the Gratitude is a sign that Monster is stepping up its game, in terms of performance and value.AF78 In terms of packaging, Monster really hits it out of the park with both the Trumpet and the Gratitude. Both come withA duet of technologies: dynamic driver and balanced armature driver. very nice carrying cases, the Trumpet comes with a special edition CD of Miles Davis Sketches of Spain album, and both come with a rather staggering array of eartips, all showcased in cool hinged heavy-duty boxes youll probably never throwOur AF78 is your ticket to truly sophisticated sound away. With such an impressive in-box collection of eartips, its obvious Monster is very serious about making sure the user can find a good fit right off the bat (which so important to both sound and comfort with in-ears).Dynamic driver and balanced armature driverNoise isolating silicon tips and ComplyTM foam tipsThe brilliant vocals, the added benefit of the control talk, the great blend of bass that boasts both quantity/quality,AudioflexTM twisted core braided cable with CORDURA fabricDurable storage tinand the rather neutral presentation are all winners in my book. I really cant stress the mids; theyre just beautiful!Premium accessories includedHead-Fi member/reviewer i2ehanClear-TalkTM mic (optional)MEET THE REST OF THE FAMILY... audiofly.com af33 af45af56 17. 3031 Spider realvoiceShure SE425 Closed, in-ear, vertical earphone (around $90)Closed, in-ear monitor (around $300) www.spidercable.com www.shure.com The first time I heard the realvoice was at the recent CanJam @ Rocky Mountain Audio Fest, and I have to admit I wasMany a veteran Head-Fier has cut his teeth on high-end in-ear monitors with Shure. Among the first to push multi- surprised. I know Spiders initial line of business was cables--HDMI cables, audio/video cables, and even some little odds- armature IEMs into the mainstream, Shures latest generation SE in-ear monitors are outstanding. and-ends accessories. I assumed the earphones were just a me-too endeavor. However, in a meeting with Spiders Ronny Tsai, he indicated theyre serious about our space. A prototype he let me listen to (any details of which I cant yet discuss)As far as performance for the price, the sweet spot of the line is, to me, the SE425. For around $300, the SE425 serves was outstanding, and convincing proof to support that Spider is doing far more than just dipping its toes in headphones.up a decidedly audiophile-friendly signature, with its specialty being the sweet and detailed midrange that Shure has become known for. Bass extension and impact is good, and on the more neutral side. Treble is good, but some As for products currently available, the Spider realvoice earphone is an impressive start, even at $90. Its largish appearance(including me) might find it could use just a touch more sparkle. gave me pause at first, but it turns out I was able to get an easy, firm fit from the get-go. And the sound? Smooth, but with good detail, and definitely some bass emphasis, the overall tilt being on the warmer, fun side. And I was surprised by itsThe SE425 is very comfortable, and I really like the detachable cable, and the cable plugs 360-degree swivel (which soundstage, which was actually quite impressive for a $90 in-ear. helps prevent annoying cable twisting).The 425s are a really good iem - well designed and built (these will last for years), superbly comfortable and really Phonak Audo PFE 232 smooth and detailed. The mids are the strongest point - but the entire sound to me is balanced and relaxed. Closed, in-ear monitor ($599)Head-Fi member/reviewer Paul Brooks (brooko) www.audeoworld.com Swiss-engineered, with custom-spec, balanced armature drivers, the dual-driver Audo PFE 232 may surprise a lot of people. For starters, its $599, which puts it squarely in the category of very expensive, as far as universal-fit IEMs go. Still, I expect a Etymotic ER-4PT lot of people who hear the PFE 232 will find its performance justifies the price. Closed, in-ear monitor ($299) www.etymotic.com How does the PFE 232 sound? Thats sort of a trick question, as one can customize the sound of it by swapping out three different sets of passive filters (included). The green filter provides extra bass, the black filter enhances perception of bassAsk the most veteran Head-Fiers what their first good in-ear monitor was, and the answer you may get back more than and treble, and the gray filter (which comes installed) is for enhanced perception of the mid-frequencies. I prefer the grayany other would be the Etymotic ER-4 (either the ER-4S or the ER-4P). The latest version of the ER-4 from Etymotic filter (its the most even-keeled of the three). Whichever you choose, you get a different flavor of what is unquestionably the Research is the ER-4PT. best dual-driver universal-fit IEM Ive yet heard--detailed, delicate, yet fun. With a single balanced armature driver per side, the ER-4 is, in the opinion of many experienced audiophiles, one of the How does one justify a universal-fit IEM that gets into custom IEM price territory? The outstanding fidelity of the PFE standards (of any type of headphone) for neutral tonal balance. You want booming bass, extra sparkle in your treble, or 232, combined with the flexibility of the filter system (which means youll have a greater chance of finding your preferred extra-rich mids? Look somewhere else. signature), makes it a compelling choice, even at the price. Also, if you like the maximum amount of isolation from ambient noise, the Etymotic ER-4--with the included triple-The overall sound of the PFEs amazes with its smoothness and clarity. The bass is tight and accurate. The mids are somewhat flange tips--are rated for 35dB to 42dB of isolation. I dont know of any other IEM (universal-fit or custom) thatliquid and very well-positioned in being neither forward nor recessed. The treble is similarly accurate and quite enjoyable... the provides more isolation from outside noise.year-old Phonak PFEs still amaze with their incredibly coherent presentation and musical sound signature.Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerl The ER-4PT is simply a modernized version of the legendary Etymotic ER-4, from the company who started so many audiophiles (including yours truly) down the road of high-end in-ear monitors.There is just no way not to be blown away with the level of detail these things put out...the Etymotics smack you in theface with it.Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerl 18. 32 33 HiFiMAN RE-262 Moshi Audio Clarus Closed, in-ear monitor ($149)Closed, in-ear, earhook-type headphone (around $200) www.head-direct.comhttp://moshimonde.com The HiFiMAN RE-262 has a somewhat unorthodox look, and an even more unique sound signature. Rich and First of all, the Moshi Audio Clarus comes in one of the best-executed fancy little boxes Ive seen in quite a while. Once sweet, the RE-262 has magical midrange, and an eminently musical quality that I think many would findyoure past the outer cardboard bits, the Clarus product packaging looks more the part of a small museum display immediately seductive. The bass extension is good, but some may find it on the lighter side. The RE-262sthan something youd pick off a store shelfeven the clear plastic they use to make the Clarus look like its floating in treble is nicely textured and smooth. But, again, that midrangethe emphasis there lends a lusher tint tomid-air seems to be of a higher-than-average grade to help accomplish the illusion. the overall presentation, and I love it. Its like a little taste of tube soundliquid single-ended triode tube soundsomehow packaged into diminutive IEMs. The appearance and build of the Clarus itself only accentuates the fancy feeling unboxing experience. The Clarus islargely made of a steel alloy, with styled creases and folds that give it a sort of origami appearance. Its very attractive Though the RE-262s chassis looks rather different from most of the IEMs on the market, you get used to it to look at, feels substantial in the hands, and looks good on the head, too. quickly, and it is very easy to insert into your ears. I also find the RE-262 very comfortable for long-term wear.Fortunately the Clarus has the sonic chops to merit the packaging. While it likely wont open up sonic vistas that Keep in mind that though the RE-262 isolates, I dont find it to isolate quite as much as much of its IEMexperienced Head-Fiers havent yet heard, it will be clear to even grizzled Head-Fi veterans that this is a headphone competition. voiced to appeal to audio enthusiasts. Theres enough mid-bass emphasis, though, to still keep the general consumermarket happy.The midrange is where its at; its sophisticated and beautiful. Vocals carry amazing intimacy that are veryaddicting, engrossing and full of emotion. The entire midrange is velvety smooth with excellent clarity and Overall, the Moshi Clarus balance is on the warmer side, with the weightiness of its midbass prominent, but neverdetail. Every little detail of the midrange is easily discovered. Singers lips parting, the inhaling of breath,overwhelming to me. The mids are also warm, and treble extension is good, though certainly not soaring. This kind ofinflections from the throat are beautifully rendered.tonal balance works well for me when on the go (I like some bass emphasis when Im out and about).Head-Fi member/reviewer Shawn (Shotgunshane)The Clarus specifications list a two-way dynamic driver in each ear (consisting of a 7mm treble drive, 15mm woofer).However this two-way driver is configured (I havent seen it), it presents itself as tonally coherent.Aside from the seductively fluid midrange the biggest strength of the RE262 for me is the presentation. Theearphones boast both and excellent soundstage and headstage still a relatively rare occurrence in theMoshi describes the Clarus ear coupling as loose-fit silicone designed to rest on the cusp of the ear canals, notIEM realm... It really gives a great sense of ambient space without losing track of individual instruments orinside of them, thereby eliminating ear fatigue. And the Clarus is very comfortable. I can easily wear it for hours. (Youdiluting other location cues. Positioning is helped by good -- perhaps even excessive layering; the RE262do sacrifice some isolation for the loose-fit comfort, though.) Ive found its earhook design to be eyeglass friendly,really leaves no doubts as to what is in a tracks foreground and what is in the background.whether Im wearing thick plastic frames or thin metal ones. And the Clarus feels light when worn.Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerlThe Clarus also has an in-line three-button remote/mic cable, which, as an iPhone/iPod/iPad user, is a great bonus ina portable headphone.The Moshi Clarus is a wonderful choice for a portable on-the-go headphone, and it was a pleasant surprise for me, as Iwas previously unfamiliar with Moshi. 19. 34 35 Velodyne vPulse Sony XBA-3iP Closed, in-ear monitor (around $90) Closed, in-ear monitor (around $250 to $300) http://www.velodyne.com http://www.sony.com It seems everyone and his subsidiaries want to peddle headphones nowadays, with loudspeaker manufacturers Last year, Sony announced seven new headphone models (constituting 11 total new SKUs) using balanced armature (BA) seemingly unable to resist the call. One such entry in the last several months that I found particularly interesting: drivers. I havent heard them all, but, of the ones I did hear, the XBA-3iP was the one that most caught my attention. Velodyne. Sure, their subwoofers have been well regarded for years, but I was intrigued to find out how a company that essentially specializes in the spectrum below 200Hz (and often well below 20Hz) would do with their firstUnlike most manufacturers that source balanced armature drivers from other companies, my understanding is that headphone. As it turns out, theyve done very well. Sony developed their own BAs. Using three of their new BA drivers per side in the XBA-3iP, Sony has achieved a level of refinement and balance with the XBA-3iP that some companies have taken years to realize. One might think that a subwoofer company would choose a bass-emphasized tonal balance with their first headphone, and, indeed, it did. One might fear that a subwoofer company might overdo that bass, but thankfullyThe XBA-3iP also has a very nice form factor, with earpieces that look simple and elegant, and with a nice shape thats it didnt. The vPulses bass is emphasized, and sounds to me to be centered in the deep bass region, withoutvery easy to grab between your thumb and forefinger for very quick and easy ear insertion. adulterating the mids. In fact, the vPulses mids and treble seem to breathe freely, and the overall balance is just what Id want when I feel like listening to a bass-emphasized in-ear. The vPulses resolution is good, but dont buyWith weighty yet detailed bass, neutralish (if somewhat subdued) mids, and detailed, well-extended neutral-balanced the vPulse if youre a detail freak. Soundstaging is good, but, again, if this is your lead criterion, the vPulse may treble, the XBA-3iP is a very good universal-fit in-ear monitor. While it doesnt quite reach the performance heights (to my not win you over. ears) of the Westone 4R or Phonak Audo PFE232, it also doesnt reach their price strata. At its price point, the XBA-3iP has become one of my favorite universal-fit IEMs. The vPulse looks very nice and stylish (and youthful) in blue (its also available in a more conservative black/ silver), and has a very nice three-button inline remote/mic. The vPulse is an outstanding value at around $90.(There is also a version without the three-button remote/mic called the XBA-3, which is priced around $200 to $230.)The first in-ear earphone from the bass experts at Velodyne, the vPulse does a good job of combining user-friendliness and functionality in a single package. While the design is derivative in many ways, the vPulse has alot going for it - tangle-resistant cables, low microphonics, comfortable angled-nozzle earpieces, and a 3-buttonthinksound ms01remote are all standard features. The sound combines solid bass rumble and depth with slightly subdued but still Closed, in-ear monitor (around $100)clean and detailed mids and highs. The bass can be a touch overpowering on some tracks but normally remains http://www.thinksound.comwell-behaved for such a bassy earphone, making the vPulse highly suitable for anyone in search of a reasonably-priced headset with plentiful rumble and power. Big sound. Small footprint. Thats thinksounds motto, their mission statement being to create incredible soundingHead-Fi member/reviewer ljokerlheadphones with the smallest eco-footprint possible. At a time when so many of us are becoming increasingly conscious about how we impact the environment, how could I not include something from thinksound in this guide? This was made even easier by the fact their flagship product, the ms01, sounds quite good for its street price of around $100. The eco-friendly vibe is strong with this one, with extensive use of natural-color cardboard, and very minimal use of plastic. The carrying case is also a simple unbleached cotton drawstring pouch. Each earpiece consists of a beautiful brown wood housing with gunmetal-colored aluminum baffles. At first glance, the aluminum baffles look like something hammered to shape. The cables are tangle-resistant and PVC-free. Aesthetically, the ms01 is a very simple, elegant design. Im not sure why, but every time I look at the ms01, I think of little craft art shops in Bridgetown, Barbados, and that makes me smile. The ms in ms01 stands for monitor series, and I can see where theyre coming from with that label, especially for how it sounds relative to most other in-ears in its price range, which tend to be either bass-heavy or bass-and-treble- heavy. The ms01 takes a rather even-keeled approach to its tonal balance, with impactful, fast bass, good clarity through the midrange, and what sounds to me like a dash of treble emphasis, but thankfully not in the sibilance range. The ms01 also images nicely. On sound alone, its a worthy competitor at its price. Throw its eco-cool spirit into the mix, and it becomes more of a standout in an increasingly crowded space. 20. 37Sennheiser RS 220Closed, around-the-ear, wireless headphone (around $599)www.sennheiser.comThis headphone is a remarkable feat of engineeringa solid bridge between wireless freedom and wired fidelity.If this was easy to do at a reasonable price, it would have been done before, many times overand that hasnthappened, because it most certainly is not easy to do. Not surprisingly, it took Sennheiser to do it.Prior to the RS 220, Sennheiser made valiant strides toward this end, especially with the RS 170 and RS 180, bothimpressive Kleer-equipped wireless headphones (and both still available). Impressive as the RS 170 and RS 180were, however, they were a different flavor of awesome, that flavor being outstanding-for-wireless headphones;whereas the RS 220 is an outstanding headphone, period, even by wired standards.The RS 220s low-latency, bit-perfect wireless transmission means full preservation of dynamic range, and thisprobably helps explain one area (but certainly not the only area) the RS 220 simply outclasses all other wirelessheadphonesdiaphanous, delicate detail. Its macrodynamic abilities are also outstanding, but keep in mindthat the RS 220 maxes out at 106 decibels (which is plenty high enough for me, and I certainly hope for you, too).be amazed.If you were under the impressionthat there was no such thing asgood wireless headphonesletalone outstanding onesthenconnect yourself to your music onlyvia the ether tether of the followingheadphones. Youll be amazed.The RS 220 has become my most-used full-sized over-ear headphone, as it gives me the freedom to move aroundmy home office area, moving from my desk to my chaise to my sofa, with fidelity that evokes the sound of a nicelydriven Sennheiser HD 600.After so many years of expecting this kind of sound only from wired headphones, I still find myself motioning withmy hands to move the non-existent headphone cables out of the way as I adjust my seating position. And I stillregularly take the RS 220 headphone off my head when I get up from my office chair, forgetting its wireless.RS 220. MM 450-X. Yes, I think it safe to say that, right now, Sennheiser rules the roost in the world of wirelessheadphones, whether at home or on the go. 21. 38 39 Sennheiser MM 450-X Travel The CT7s midrange follows its Closed, on-the-ear, portable, wireless Bluetooth headphone (street price around $450.00) www.sennheiser.combass. It is forward, edgy, and My experience with stereo Bluetooth headphones had not been at all encouraging until I came across the MM fun. Its got detail. Its got space. 450 Travel. And, recently, Sennheiser further improved this headphone with the MM 450-X. This feature-packed closed-back headphone is far and away the best sounding Bluetooth stereo headphone I have ever heard. No, Its got bite. It even has softness you wont mistake it for Sennheisers flagship HD 800, but you also wont believe your music is being piped to you through Bluetooth.where needed. You can hear very The MM 450-X also has very good active noise cancellation (no, not as good as the Bose QC15s noise clearly the small wet sounds of cancellation, but still very good), can be used passively (via an included cable) when the battery dies (or when youd rather not drain its rechargeable battery), includes a very nifty TalkThrough feature that allows you to hear the mouth, stray breaths into the the world around you (using its built-in stereo microphones), can be used as a Bluetooth headset, and has control buttons with which to easily control your calls and music.microphone, the gnarled strings New with the MM 450-X is support for the hi-fi apt-X audio codec, for improved sound quality with other apt-of a guitar. Its all there. X-supported devices). In case your computer doesnt support apt-X, pick up the $60 Sennheiser BTD 500 USB dongle, which will give your Windows or Mac computer apt-X, A2DP and HSP capabilities. Another improvement Head-Fi member/reviewer Shigzeo Ive found with the MM 450-X (versus the MM 450) is a lower noise floor when used wirelessly, and/or with active noise-cancellation enabled. Ive logged many thousands of miles of travel with the Sennheiser MM 450 Travel (and will likely log even more with the MM 450-X), and it has been fantastic for use on buses, planes and trains. Of all the active noise- cancelers that Sennheiser currently offers, the MM 450-X offers the best balance of portability, utility and sound, in my opinion. (We discussed the Sennheiser MM 450 Travel in Episode 007 of Head-Fi TV.) Sleek Audio CT7 W-1 Wireless Custom Closed, Kleer wireless, custom in-ear monitors (starting around $800) Pictured at right. www.sleekaudio.com Until I heard the Sennheiser RS 220, the best-sounding wireless headphones Id heard all used Kleer wireless technology. Ive heard a prototype of Sleek Audios universal-fit in-ear Kleer wireless system, and it was extremely impressiveand that was a few years ago. A Sleek Audio Kleer wireless system is available with Sleek Audios CT7 custom-fit in-ear monitor earpieces. The CT7 has been well reviewed on Head-Fi (in both wired and wireless setups), and Sleek has had a few years since last I heard their prototype to further refine their wireless rigs. A wireless custom-fit IEM? I dont think Ill be able to resist. NOTE: For the CT7, expect to pay about an additional $50.00 to get molds of your ears made at a local audiologist (that you will then send in to Sleek Audio). 22. desktopamps 42 HEADPHONEcables 44 portableamps46 BUDAUDac47Headphone amps & DESKTOPAUDIO51Other Head-Fi Gear COMPUTERAUDIO 52There is a lot of other gear PORTABLEDEVICES 59discussed by Head-Fiers other thanheadphones, including amps topower those headphones, digital-to-analog converters (DACs), othersource components to feed the ampsthat power those headphones, otheraudio accessories, and occasionallyeven loudspeakers for when we dontfeel like listening to headphones.41schitt audio valhalla andwoo audio WA5 23. 42 Desktop Headphone Amplifiers Desktop Headphone Amplifiers (continued) At the 2011 CanJam at Rocky Mountain Audio Fest, I plugged the Audeze LCD-3 into the solid state Apex HiFi Audio Butte ($495), www.ttvj.com, and smiled big. Physically, the Butte is unimposing. Aesthetically, its One of the most acclaimed cost-no-object high-end amps on Head-Fi has been the Eddie Current Balancing Act unassuming. Sonically, it drove the LCD-3 beautifully and transparently, allowing the new Audeze flagship do its thing,($3,950), www.eddiecurrent.com, a fully-balanced tube headphone amp and preamp that also uses 300B tubes. Many unembellished, unencumbered. seasoned Head-Fiers consider the Balancing Act one of the best amps available at any price, and my experience with it (atshows) makes it obvious why. At the most recent CanJam at Rocky Mountain Audio Fest, I heard the Balancing Act paired withthe Audeze LCD-2 for the first time, and that rig was simply out of this world.The Balancing Act is also one of the most beautiful headphone amps on the market, that cant even be fairly described assimply retro. The chassis lines, the old-fashioned control knobs and indicator lampcombined with the prominently placedvacuum tubesresult in a look at seems very completely from another era. Simply gorgeous. The dynamic capabilities of the BA are excellent from throughout the entire audible range. The BAs resolution and ability to extract low level information is also excellent. Head-Fi member/reviewer Marv (Purrin) Several Head-Fiers were gathered round it at one point, toward the end of the show, and every single one of us walkedWhile were on the subject of gorgeous ampsand returning to solid statethe SPL (Sound Performance Lab) away impressed by the combo. Knowing that the LCD-3 was in my immediate future, I knew the Butte had to be, too, soPhonitor (around $2150), spl.info, might very well be the best-looking solid state headphone amplifier on the market. I ordered one on the spot. Fortunately, it has the performance to match, being one of only a couple of solid state amplifiers Ive used that I feel matcheswell with the HD 800.Right away I found this amp to be neutral and smooth. Transparency and midrange clarity are delivered in spadeswith the Butte. These are the major strengths of the Butte. The midrange is where a lot of the magic happens for many The Phonitor also has the best, most comprehensive, tonally neutral crossfeed Ive yet used. Its crossfeed flexibility puts theof us and I found the Buttes midrange to be natural and uncolored. You can push this amp without any significant Phonitor at the forefront of headphone imaging coherence and accuracy, and its an amp I may have to add to one of myedginess/harshness at the top or bloat at the bottom. There is no chance of amp-induced fatigue here.reference systems. (We discussed the SPL Phonitor in Episode 009 of Head-Fi TV.)Head-Fi member/reviewer John White (WNBC) This is an excellent piece of high quality machinery and anyone with the proper equipment to take advantage of it will be absolutely glad they have it. This will undoubtedly be able to power anything you can throw at it without a hitch, while Another affordable desktop amp I use and recommend is the Schiit Audio Valhalla ($349), www.schiit.com, providing a great sound. which is a Class-A, single-ended triode amp. Its an affordable trip into beautiful tube sound, and with good flexibility,Head-Fi member/reviewer keanex supporting headphones with nominal impedance of 32-600 ohms.Here is what the Valhalla is: an outstanding sounding headphone amp for the money. Its dynamic, essentiallyAnother fantastic solid state headphone ampand my current personal reference amp to use with the HiFiMAN HE-500, Audezetransparent, and essentially neutral.LCD-2 and LCD-3is the fully balanced Ray Samuels Audio Apache ($2,995), www.raysamuelsaudio.com. (TheHead-Fi member/reviewer skylabApache is also a preamp.) Though it works well with a great number of headphones, driving those particular planar magneticmodels seems to be the Apaches fortelike it was made especially for them. In the context of the Sennheiser HD 800 (which itself is priced at around $1,500), we have to adjust the definition ofThe Apache is, as I define it, completely transparent, to a degree I have not heard before in a headphone amp. No grain, no affordable a bit. With that in mind, the best affordable tube amp Ive used with the HD 800 happens to be the Ray noise, no haze just a completely wide open window to the music. I hesitate to even call it a window. The Apache put me IN Samuels Audio Raptor ($1,175), www.raysamuelsaudio.com. This is a glorious pairing, and Ive brought it withthe music in a way no other headphone amp has. me to two CanJam at RMAF eve