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Which headphones??

Okay, so I'm now leaning towards getting a nice headphone set-up. I am thinking that I'll probably get a couple pairs of headphones when It's all said and done because there just seems to be benefits and negatives about different designs.

Initially, I'd just like to use the headphone amp in my z dac. I am looking at a pair of sennheiser hd 598 new in box for $200 on c-list. These cans seem to get good reviews but I figure I'll want something with a closed design later on so that I can block out exterior sounds also.

I really want something with a great soundstage and imaging, I want it to sound as good as my stereo system, or close to it!

Thanks for your help with this one!!
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Showing 2 responses by newbee

newbee
4,751 posts
 
Be sure to consider using a separate headphone amp which will drive your phones. This can make a huge difference. I'm using the Senn 598s and a small Fournier tubed amp (costs about $175 and is sold on E-Bay) in my TV room. Nice relaxed sound.

I use Senn 650's and a Woo W3 amp in my main system. More resolution and extension yet balanced slightly on the warm side. Costs 150% more though but it sounds quite a bit better in some respects than my main system, especially in clarity in the mids and highs.

I would suggest though that you do not expect a soundstage even remotely similar to what you get with a properly set up 2 channel system. Despite all of the sales pitch about imaging and headphones you will read, headphones really don't come close.
newbee
4,751 posts
 
Marakanetz, Are you satisfied that you used an amp that best matched the Senn's you listened to. FWIW, for example, I tried a highly regarded amp, as well as a CDP with a capable built in amp. Both of my Senn Headphones (598 and 650) sounded like crap with SS amps. Especially the 650's.

FWIW.
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