2. headphones
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Need new headphone setup.

I have a speaker oriented system that is very satisfying to me. But because of a need to maintain domestic tranquility I’m looking to go to a less noisy alternative: i..e. headphones.
I want to spend a total of about $1000. So, nothing too fancy. Not the equivalent of my much more expensive speaker system.
What do I need to assemble a headphone system independent of my regular system which is accessible from my listening chair and side table?
I plan on solely streaming. My present system contains a WiFi streamer.
Can that be incorporated, or do I need a new streamer?
I understand that I need a headphone preamp along with the cans.
I know my budget is not too high, but can I get something relatively decent at it?

Currently, I listen though cheap ear buds and stream through an iPad.

128x128rvpiano
holmz's avatar
holmz
2,328 posts
 

What do you mean by “using the IEM without a pad?’

“In Ear Monitor” = (IEM)
And I meant with an iPad.

If you use an iPad now, then an “In Ear Monitor” (IEM) seem like a progression.

For isolation of external noise the order is:

  1. IEM
  2. Closed Back
  3. Open Back

I usually go #1 or #2, but if it is quiet then #3 also works. If it is noisy or in an public setting then you may want #1 or #2.

The Eytmoytic measure well and sound good, So for an IEM they are a good choice… But a can may be more comfortable.

rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
2,423 posts
 

Thanks!

soix
8,681 posts
 

If you end up using a dongle out of the iPad, I found this to be a significant upgrade over the Apple Camera Adapter...

https://www.lavricables.com/cables/reference-silver-lightning-to-chord-hugo-mojo-interconnect-cable-by-lavricables-v2-0/

 

jeankunin's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jeankunin
17 posts
 

I highly recommend checking out IEM’s from Periodic Audio, in particular the Be beryllium version.  The newest models now allow interchangeable cables, which is great if you wish to upgrade.  To my ears they sound detailed and rich.  Periodic also now makes a very small DAC that, along with the earphones and a smart phone for streaming create an incredibly portable system that is great for travel without compromising sound quality.  Can be found on Amazon if you’re interested.

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,499 posts
 

The fact remains that most all earspeakers sound fine if you make them your own with a top shelf source. I don't have $325 into the present Koss 30i's pushed by an Xduoo 20 tube amp and it sounds super.

And I own Quad and Stax open cans🙃(better.)  My Focals sound great until A/B ing. You won't have any preferences until you start.

 

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