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Recommendation for Headphones

My current rig is a Lumin U1 mini feeding a Intona isolation unit feeding a Chord Qutest DAC feeding a Primaluna evo300 integrated amp with tube upgrades.

I use Goldenear Triton 1r speakers.

What would be a good headphone for this setup.  Would like to keep it under 2500 if possible.   Thanks Much

 

mlapenta
yyzsantabarbara
4,964 posts
 

If you like a warm sound the OLD Meze Empy is a very nice headphone, but it pales in comparison to the RAAL ribbon. The ribbon is likely too bright for someone that likes it toasty.

Used Meze Empy could be going for a nice low price these days since Meze has a new top model. The new model is brighter than the former top dog, Empy.

 

blisshifi's avatar
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blisshifi
1,212 posts
 

+1 @soix on Audeze. For what you de@mlapenta you might be really happy spending much less than the amount you specified. The Audeze LCD-2F costs significantly less than the LCD-3, but it might suit your sonic tastes better if you like it a bit on the warmer side with a softer top. Allocate $300-400 on a quality aftermarket cable and the rest towards a headphone amp if you do not have one that will drive the Audeze to perform its best. The LCD-4 is also worth listening to, but you’ll have to find it used to reach your price. 

soix
9,809 posts
 

BTW, I bought both my headphones as open box items — one from a reputable dealer on Amazon (Gramophone) and the other direct from Hifiman and in both cases it worked out great as both were as new and I saved hundreds of $$$.  FWIW. 

big_greg
6,674 posts
 

I agree with the recommendations for Audeze for the type of sound you described. 

I'd throw Hifiman into the mix also.  Similar sound signature, a little more neutral and depending on which model, can be lighter than many of the Audeze models. 

It's important to take comfort into your purchase decision.  I love the sound of my LCD-4, but they are heavy buggers! 

The Sony MDR-Z1R has great bass and is in your budget.  They are very comfortable.  They compare favorably to my LCD-4.

soix
9,809 posts
 

Just fyi, in another post a member was looking for similar sound characteristics and I also recommended Audeze to him, but he actually ended up preferring the overall sound of the Hifiman Arya and went with those instead, which kinda surprised me as the Arya is more neutral sounding with less bass emphasis (although still very solid, quick, and tight bass) relative to Audeze IME.  Just goes to show nothing replaces an audition if you can swing it. FWIW.

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