2. headphones
  3. 195576-205752

I’m lost. Help me find my way

I’m adding a headphone setup to my all McIntosh system. It’s shown in the virtual systems section. In short, it’s a HT system and the processor/preamp doesn’t have a headphone jack. 
My local dealer, who I have worked with since 1977, is recommending the McIntosh MHA200 amp and the Grado RS1x HP’s. I’m a Mac guy all the way since my first real system back in 70’s. I know nothing about Grado although everything I’ve seen gives them high marks. I respect and trust my dealer and will probably go with it unless I find the Grado phones uncomfortable or poor sounding after trying them. 
But I would welcome any first hand knowledge of either of these products. Thanks in advance. 

jfrost27
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,257 posts
 

Those are good phones .   I've owned a few Grado and like them overall but headphones are a VERY personal choice.  

I would say the headphone amp is probably a safer choice but with anything I'd say auditioning is a must on these two products.  

Listen to them and dont feel obligated to buy unless they really click with you. 

elliottbnewcombjr
6,049 posts
 

Open Air type will be heard by someone near you, is that ok?

jfrost27 OP
44 posts
 

@oddiofyl 

Yes I am planning to visit my dealer to audition the phones later this week. Unfortunately he doesn’t have the amp in stock. But I an a McIntosh owner of a wide range of gear for 45 years. I’ve never been disappointed. I’ll be listening to the phones through a different Mac piece so I think that will be ok. I’m mostly worried about comfort with the HP’s. 
 

@elliottbnewcombjr 

No problem with other people hearing what I am hearing. My system is down in my man cave. The wifey never comes down there. 👍👏

dynacohum
749 posts
 

Grado phones can seem too bright for some listeners.  Also check out Sennheiser HD660S2  and Audeze LCD2 Classic in that $$$ range.  If a higher price is within reach, Focal Clear MG are incredibly comfortable and as their name implies.

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