HiWire

They're fine for non-critical listening... e.g. while you work, etc. In my opinion, they should only be purchased if they're heavily discounted... they're not worth their list price when better headphones are available.

Happy Birthday, Phi... er, Jay

I think it's cool that you rock the Qualias. It's just a matter of system-matching to synergize with their strengths... If I had loads of money, I'd try an electrostat setup - either the HE-90 or Stax Omega.

Sweet. The HP-2 will definitely be in attendance to quality meets.

We'll have to do another meet sometime. I'm curious about the MS-Pro/RS-1 sound, if Renato is coming. Also, I'm looking forward to getting an Oppo source, if the new DV-983 model is decent (should be released early next year). Then I can finally use those RCA interconnects you gave me last time.

Philodox, do you think bass boost is required for the 271? The reviews lean that way, from what I've read. I gave up looking for closed cans a while ago and will purchase v-moda Vibes if they come in blue.

I think somebody tested the theory on Head-Fi. No difference... I expect RS-1 to continue sounding much different than MS-Pro.

I dislike the design of the new RS-1s. If the MS-Pro go the same way, it's guaranteed that I'll never own a pair.

I am also interested in how the comparo turned out.

The HP-2 go pretty deep into the bass... a lot of headphone listeners keep trying to boost or mod their headphones for more bass, only to be disappointed. You can't get the impact of moving air or moving ground (like the drums in a marching band, for example) hitting your body through headphones. That's why headphones will always be a more cerebral listening experience than speakers, which are more visceral. The lack of dynamics probably has something to do with the playback medium. It's hard to convey the information from a full orchestra using the CD standard for example - it's just an approximation.

Meh. Let us know how it sounds when you get it. People are idiots.

I think the ultimate form of iPod setup would be to completely replace the DAC and amp section inside the iPod case. It would be the ultimate stealth mod, but requires manufacturing resources beyond most hobbyists' reach.

I'm more interested in the HeadCode. The Diablo looks like the penultimate iPod freak's wankbox

Is the Dynahi still considered to be at the flagship level of amps?

I'm glad you were able to compare some flagship CD players. Unfortunately, I think this category of equipment will only ever be a dream for me, like exotic sports cars - barring a sudden lottery win. Sadly, I'm now fascinated by the $250 Oppo universal player.

Welcome to the club. I'm also a fan of the F1 GTR. I'm interested to see how Gordon Murray's next cars turn out - I wasn't a fan of the Mercedes SLR.

I guess I won't be getting an MS-Pro any time soon.

I'm watching Roswell, Second Season and hopefully Layer Cake. Never Been Kissed sucked so very, very badly. I know...

They have a 3-way that is a little better looking. Absolute Sound reviewed them this month. I think Stereophile reviewed the Guarneri recently, too.

I'll probably go for the Saint-Saens and Schumann, at least. I'm building up a large collection of Living Stereo SACDs.

It has to sound high end. The rest is audiophile jewelry.

Cheap. Mine stuck and hasn't returned yet from warranty repair... it's been 7 months. Fit and finish were sub-par to begin with... the bezel was never straight and the second hand was also off by half a movement. Their mechanisms are bottom-of-the-bin, no better than any knock-off on the street corner. Get a real watch.

Sophie Milman

To respond to the OP - it's possible someday, but I'd rather be listening now. Also, I probably can't afford any more high-end cans.

Happy Birthday!