Elephas

Dude, you're complaining?! About a girl wearing those outfits?! Ah, this reminds me, I need to download the latest Victoria's Secret fashion show in HD.

Yes, I agree. All the pro reviews are positive, and the reasoning given is that if the product isn't superlative they wouldn't review it in the first place. I don't find this explanation fully convincing. Without getting into the business of pro reviews, I just meant that they are basically useless to me because they can talk about a component's "great X" or "superb Y" but without a direct comparison to another component that I'm familiar with, I don't really know what they are talking about.

Obviously I have too much time on my hands today. I thought of some analogies between headphones and lingerie, to prove that I have some imagination. Hopefully someone won't be searching for the terms below and end up here. HD650: plaid miniskirt outfit, conservative white panties K701: white nurse's costume minidress, plus thigh-high boot W5000: short shorts, no top O2Mk2: black skintight lycra catsuit HE60: metal chains wrapped strategically, plus a ball gag and blindfold HE90: matching lace bra and g-string set -- What I meant about comparative descriptions of headphones or components is that I need the comparison to have a reference point. I don't understand many of the reviews of audio gear on 6moons or Stereophile, where they talk about the component without comparing it. For example, I can talk about the HD650 + Zana Deux on its own, and say how it is smooth-sounding, a bit dark and laid-back, some emphasis on upper-bass. I can try to describe its positive qualities, use some songs as examples, examine bass response, treble, etc. But without comparing to the O2Mk1 + ES-1, how am I to know how good it sounds overall? Listening to the HD650 + ZD alone will give me a positive impression, and I'll probably describe it as a good-sounding system. But without a direct comparison, what does the HD650's review's "smooth and refined sound" mean? Just how smooth or refined? Very, somewhat, or not much? To the reviewer, very, but what about to the O2 standard? To me, not as smooth or refined as the O2Mk1 + ES-1, but I'll never know that without direct comparisons. So what use is the standalone review of a component?

When I'm enjoying the music immensely, I tend to think that system is "flawless." Too busy enjoying, and no time to think about any flaws. Of course, the system is not flawless, it's just close to it at the time for me. I'm a comparative type and I mostly evaluate a headphone's or a component's sound by comparing it to another component. I don't have an "ideal perfect sound" in memory or a standard "that's how it sounded live" as a reference. I like to use a variety of headphones because they can make the same songs sound "fresh and new." Kind of like seeing your girlfriend with a different hairstyle, or wearing sexy lingerie for the first time. However, I've been on a long stretch lately with the O2Mk1, about 5 days exclusively. I've been experimenting with the ES-1's tube adapters and a variety of tubes.

I think it's safe to say I'm just not as discerning as some other people. Our disagreements about the amount of difference between the O2Mk1 and O2Mk2 showed this. I tend to like anything I'm listening to at the time. It could even be a dynamic, such as a Grado RS-1 or AT W5000. I would be interested in seeing Spritzer's horrified expression while he's listening to either of those headphones. Hmm, this is not easy to describe. Some types such as RFT dimple top and Tesla work OK, but they just aren't as smooth or refined as the Mullard xf1, xf2 and Philips metal base. The GE 6CA7 also seem less refined but they are punchier and more energetic, with more bass quantity but also muddier bass. But the effects can be different depending on the headphones used, keeping everything else the same. For example, I think the 6CA7 is warmer and fuller-bodied, and more suited to the HE90 and HE60 and less suited for the O2's. I think the saying about the last 5% comes into play. The Mullard xf1 I'm using now are great. I prefer them greatly over the 3D21 with adapters or the RFT dimple tops. After hearing the O2Mk1 with them, I can't stand to switch back. But the difference in cost? It's quite large, especially vs. the inexpensive 3D21. Given a set budget and the choice, I would put more money towards the preamp tubes than the EL34. I could probably get by with a set of xf2. Yes, they would be sufficient. All of the above is with the ES-1, of course. I'm still a relative newbie! I've heard a lot of headphones but not that many amps. I've only attended one meet, a long time ago, and haven't pitted my gear head-to-head against others at a meet. I consider doing so to be a good reality check against self-delusion or self-stupidity.

I was thinking of canceling my BHSE order. My ES-1 is working very well, and there are many tube combinations to try. With the BHSE, I would only be able to change the quad of EL34. I realize this isn't really a shortcoming of the BHSE. Presumably it sounds good the way it is designed, as a hybrid. But I like rolling tubes and I've found that the preamp tubes affect the sound more in the ES-1, Aristaeus and also the Zana Deux's single 6SL7. I got a bit carried away acquiring tubes and have enough to last a long time. But one can never have enough tubes! I was saving the quad of Mullard EL34 xf1 (that I'm now using in the ES-1) for the BHSE. Also a quad of Philips metal base, an unmatched quad of TF, and some xf2's as well as Tesla, GE 6CA7, RFT dimple tops and a couple of other types. Recently I saw the new black glass Shuguang Treasure 6CA7-Z on sale and I plan to get a quad. But even with all these choices, I'm not expecting changing the power tubes in the BHSE to change the sound as much as changing the preamp tubes in the other amps. The O2Mk1 and O2Mk2 are already sounding as good as I can imagine driven by the ES-1. I can't imagine them getting any better.

Yes, the GE 6CA7 works well in the ES-1 with the HE90, HE60, SR-Omega or 4070. They don't do as well with the O2's. I have a pair of Tung-Sol 7025 labeled GAP-R Computor but no RCA. I like using 5751 in place of 12AX7, and have had excellent results with 5751 in the Aristaeus. Very crisp and clean sound. I've been able to try some 5751 in the ES-1 using the ECC1 adapters, and they work very well too. Right now, I'm using Sylvania 5751WA, Tung-Sol 6SN7 black glass round plates, and Mullard EL34 xf1 with the O2Mk1. Sound is very refined, extremely liquid and silky smooth. I think that few headphones can match this level of smoothness; not the HE90, SR-Omega or R10. Details, imaging, dynamics and tonality are very good. I think there is still a touch of darkness, but it is slight.

Thanks for the detailed explanation about the volume toggle. I remember the audio shop people saying something similar when I bought the DA10. The shop has demo units of the DA10 and Benchmark DAC1. I've spent some time there doing some AB comparisons, and I always ended up being disappointed by the Benchmark each time. I think the DAC1 lacks refinement.

I'm not really expecting the BHSE to be better than a regular BH, but I won't have both to compare, so that's a moot point. I'll have the ES-1 and Aristaeus to compare with the BHSE. If the BHSE is close to the ES-1, I'll be satisfied. Some of you guys heard the ES-1 at the 2008 Colorado meet. I've been having fun tube-rolling and trying out combos with the adapters: 2C51, ECC1 (5751, 12AU7, 12AX7), 5687 and 3D21 as well as the 6SN7, 6BL7 and EL34 types. My favorite tubes are unfortunately mostly the rarer and more expensive ones. Hopefully the BHSE will be responsive to various EL34. I've prepared a bunch of EL34 to try.

Aaaaah, oh no! I was hoping that the KGBH will brighten up and increase treble aggressiveness a bit. Not too much, just a little bit would be enough. Then I could consider selling the HE90 and SR-Omega. And maybe request a member name change to Spritzer v2. Compared to the Aristaeus, the ES-1 has increased dynamics and makes the O2's more energetic and less laid-back, with more treble energy and some more brightness overall. This is already with some attempts at tube-rolling on both amps, for example, Sylvania 5751 instead of 12AX7 on the Aristaeus, and Tung-Sol 2C51, Sylvania 6SN7 metal base and Mullard EL34 instead of WE 396A, Ken-Rad 6SN7 and GE 6CA7 on the ES-1. This is probably useless info to most people, but I mention it because tube changes make some differences.

I thought making cables was all fun fun fun? That's why people do DIY? I forgot to mention my four headphones recabled with Enigma Audio Oracle, all balanced. The Oracle cable is very light, thin and flexible. Thinner and lighter than APS v3 or Black Dragon or Equinox, but not as soft as the APS v3 nylon. Yes, somehow I ended up with four Oracle cabled headphones, W5000, SA5000, AD2000 and RS-1. I think of the fun fun fun Grand Enigma had making these cables and I'm jealous. And now the Apex is out! Grrrr...

I'm definitely interested in how the PIC feature in the DA11 sounds, either with headphones or with speakers, which is how I'm currently using my DA10 (with Dynaudio powered monitors). The only thing I don't like is that up-down toggle volume control, which I notice is also on the DA11. But I'm sure this is a dead-horse topic by now. I'll be looking out for a DA11 demo in local audio shops.

Yes, I like crystal clear and super crisp treble too. But be careful, you'll need a good source, which can be expensive. IME, good sources are needed for the crystal treble plus the delivery of all the shimmering details without harshness or fatigue over time. Treble with crispness and precision, plus smoothness and liquidity, can be extremely addictive. The search for these qualities, and others such as sweet midrange, great bass, etc. can lead down the crazy audiophile path. Yes, I agree that we each have differing standards based on our hearing, age, etc. other factors. But I'm saying that the O2's are comparatively darker than other headphones, including less emphasized treble. This is true no matter who's listening and I don't think many people disagree with me. To those who think the O2's are not dark, many other headphones will be too bright. IMO, this quite limits their choices. Other Stax are too bright, including SR-Omega, and also HE60, HE90, Jade. Most Grados are out, especially RS-1 and PS-1. Ouch, those harsh grainy highs! The Qualia and R10 and SA5000 are out. W5000 and K1000 too. Maybe also the HP-2, K701 and DT990, DT880. The L3000, W11JPN, JVC DX1000, Denon D7000, HD650 and HD600 would be closer to the O2 reference. Although I can't imagine Spritzer listening to an Audio-Technica, for some reason. It's part of the O2's strength, contributing to their refined sound. But if one likes a brighter presentation and a bit more treble emphasis, the O2's would not be my top choice. I would suggest the HE60 or Jade, or the Airbow SR-SC1. Of course, the system is also a factor, and I might be wrong based on certain sources or amp matching.

Er, well, since HeadphoneAddict doesn't seem to be responding; maybe he's suffering from some kind of headphone withdrawal right now, screaming and drooling, due to not having listened to a headphone in more than 3 hours... I don't think the O2Mk1 and O2Mk2 have lively and extended very far treble. People can claim that the O2's treble is fine, and perfect, and that's of course a valid opinion. But the fact remains that the O2's are comparatively, relatively, darker than most other headphones. This includes their treble, which doesn't have the sparkle and crispness and extendedness of some other headphones such as the HE60, HE90, Jade, and also other Stax such as the 4070 and Airbow SR-SC1. I'm using an SP ES1 and Aristaeus, and used to own a KGSS. I also have an SRM-T1W and have heard the 007tII and 727, but not the 717. So maybe a Blue Hawaii, which I haven't heard, will brighten up the O2's and increase treble sparkle. But if you plan to drive either O2 with a Stax amp or an ES-1, KGSS or Aristaeus, and you really like sparkly extended treble, I would suggest at least trying another headphone and doing a comparison vs. the O2. The O2Mk1 earpads are pleather! Even if they're real, the Mk2 pads are better! Now I better go hide for a while, in case the Mafia is watching.

*Raises hand* *Waving frantically* "Me, me, call on me!" ...Nothing... Oh, well, I guess he's only asking HeadphoneAddict. I can't understand why anyone would want to ask someone called "HeadphoneAddict" anything. I mean, dude, he's addicted to headphones. What would you expect some addict to say?

Hahaha, yeah, some people here like to post off-topic. Don't pay any attention to them! I don't think this is really a headphone site. It might seem like one, but... Sheathed in black techflex doesn't resemble only SAA Equinox. Other cables are also black techflex. The APS v3 comes in a nylon version that's very nice, softer and more flexible, and maybe a bit lighter than those techflex. Hey, the cable touches me! Soft and flexible is good.

I found an old photo. My MS2i used to have a shortened stock cable reterminated to an 1/8" plug. It has since been recabled with a balanced Silver Dragon cable.

I have a set of Headphile C-Pads with ports, black color, for use with the MS2i. They are the type that are fitted onto the housing by friction. Sound is less upfront and less engaging. There's less of the Grado excitement and energy. It's somewhat bland and boring, even. I've only used these C-Pads once or twice, I think. They are basically still in good condition and the earpads are almost like new. Black color wood and black color Beyer earpads. If the OP sends me a PM saying "Happy Valentine's!" by 9PM New York Time Feb. 14, and I'll send you these C-Pads free, shipping included.

Seems nice, but I don't think I'm ready to upgrade from the DA10 yet. Now, if it was a newer version Gold DA2002... I heard the Lavry Gold once, and I remember it as a supremely sublime experience. Amp was a Graham Slee Solo and headphones was HD650 with stock cable (!). The sound was superb. I've never gotten the HD650 to sound quite like that experience, with a Zana Deux or Lehmann BCL, Equinox cable, and my Accuphase or Esoteric sources. Either the Graham Slee Solo is an extra special amp or the Gold is a special source.

The Jade reminded me of the 4070. Clear-sounding and neutral. A bit cold and lacking some refinement compared to the O2. Didn't the Jade remind you of the 4070?

Check Japan street prices, I don't think they're anywhere that high. I bought a Japan-market DP-500 from a grey -market importer for slightly over US$3500 in summer 2007. They converted it to 120V from 100V by opening the case and doing some simple modification. It has served me well since then, with no problems. Sometimes when I'm enjoying its smooth and natural sound matched with an Aristaeus in a secondary system, I wonder why I even have the primary system.

I've owned a ZD since Jan. 2008. It is the best dynamic amp I've heard, but that isn't really saying much since I haven't heard many amps. Besides the Senn HD600 and HD650, I find that the ZD drives just about any of my other dynamics well. I think it is better than the AT-HA5000 with the W5000. Tubes for the ZD are simple compared to other tube amps. You just need to collect a variety of single 6SL7. Most are sold in pairs, so you'll have a backup. I think that we ZD owners are doing all those matched pairs of 6SL7 a horrible disservice by splitting them up, but what else can we do? I even have a set of matched quad that I'm splitting up. I've replaced the fuse in the power supply with a Furutech, and I think there was a marginal improvement. It's difficult to AB, though, taking too much time between changing fuses. I also tried replacing the black rubber feet with a set of Finite Elemente Ceraballs, but there doesn't seem to be any difference. My favorite 6SL7 include Mullard, Brimar, Valvo and Tung-Sol 6SU7GTY.

I've refrained from trying the 6F8G adapters because of the risk that something goes wrong with my SP ES-1 amp. Given the frustrations of dealing with Mikhail, I don't want him to have any reason to say that any problems are due to 3rd party adapters. Instead, I took the hit and bought 5687 and ECC1 adapters from him. Yeah, they cost a lot. Too much, IMO, but factoring in the risk of something going wrong with the amp and having to argue with Mikhail made them more palatable. I realize the 6F8G is a direct replacement for the 6SN7 so there shouldn't be any problems. With another amp I would try them. But with Singlepower, I don't want the risk.

I thought the SR-404 brown looked bad, but it does grow on you after a while and isn't so bad anymore. I think the Airbow SR-SC1 (basically an SR-404) is one of the most comfortable headphones. Very lightweight, not too much clamping force, comfortably-shaped and comfy earpads, comfy headband and medium-sized housings that aren't too big. Large housings and consequently large earpads run the risk of putting some uncomfortable pressure on the upper jaw or area behind the ear.

Yeah. I don't know the reason He Audio decided to use the 5-pin XLR and include an adapter. Whatever the case, I think it was a bad decision. It's as if they wanted to emulate the HE90 and have its own distinctive plug. They might be planning to launch their own line of amplifiers with 5-pin XLR outputs, but they don't exist yet and market acceptance of yet another plug standard will be a long time coming. Being Jade-less, I'm listening to the HE90. I put in a full complement of el-cheapo tubes in the ES-1, and the result is not bad. 2x Tung-Sol 5687 (with adapters) for first stage 2x GE 6BL7GT for second stage 4x STC 3D21A (with adapters) The BHSE is going to have a tough time battling the ES-1.