Auditioning headphones (ethically)?
My local dealer has an assortment of headphones to demo with different amps. They have a 30 day return policy. I bought the Sennheiser HD800. High comfort factor on me, I can wear ‘em all day and don’t tire of the sound. I kept them. I also wanted some closed back and since the 800’s were so enjoyable, bought some 820’s. They’re a little heavier than the 800’s but it’s not an issue. Same comfort, great sound. I switch back and forth. |
Nice, bslon. I don't have such a local dealer. There's one about three hours away that has Focals for home audition, but only for a week and they're grouchy if the customer isn't local. (They're kind of grouchy anyway.) There's a store about four hours away that does sell Focals and Sennheisers and Audeze, and I can ask about their policies. Buying a pair with a 30-day return policy is easy; it's the comparison that I'd like to do. (Obviously, I can compare the weight and comfort one-by-one; it's comparing the sometimes subtle differences in sound that I find difficult that way.) |
Doing your research should help minimize the risk of picking something too far off the mark. Obviously finding a dealer online with a good return policy would be one way to go, but you can also consider buying used headphones and in the event you make a mistake with sound, fit, etc. you can resell them with little/no loss as long as you buy well. Best of luck. |
@northman, The Cable Company has a Headphone Lending Library, you can borrow multiple models. I’m not affiliated with them but have made purchases. https://www.thecableco.com/the-cable-company-headphone-lending-library Good luck, enjoy your quest. |
