The best advice I can give to anyone starting this hobby: 1. Audiophiles exaggerate slightest changes 2. Be skeptical of those who overuse our terminology 3. There is no headphone that is the best at everything 4. Enjoy your time in budget & mid range budgets. Only go hi end once you’ve established your preferences 5. Diminishing returns is real after ~$500 and especially past ~$1500
let’s be honest, above 1.3k studio monitor speaker is starting to beat even best in class headphones for around the same price. there are only so much a headphone can do with the size of their driver
@@crazyforcs not a crazy knowledgeable person, but my guess is for the price range you really won’t find much better, but again it has SOOO much to do with personal opinion and style, regardless you do have a great headphone rn!
@@qupeter1224 Seriously for me I can hear a lot more details and nuances with headphones. I can hear a lot more new things and even change my thoughts on some of the songs when I upgraded to high end headphones stuff. It made me go through and listen to my entire music library again to hear what I may have missed out on before. With speakers you need to have the proper placement and room treatment to get a proper sound, then you have to sit in the right position and you have to be courtesy of your neighbours and people living with you…. It just too much hassle for me…
I've been an audiophile for 47 years. In my opinion, Eric gave the most holistic, all encompassing and accurate answers I have ever heard come from one person on the subject in such a short period of time.
Just discovered this channel a few weeks ago and really enjoying it. I've been listening to the same pair of Sennheiser HD595s plugged straight into my computer for the last ~12 years. I've finally decided it's time for a real setup, so I'm having a ton of fun over-researching the decision.
@@no.one.2 @Jason I started off small with an ifi hip dac and the hifiman 4XX. I really liked the 4XX but they were a bit uncomfortable and the band snapped after 6 months. Then I bought the Sennheiser 6xx because I knew they would never break. Then I bought a pair of DT770's because I wanted more low end and had a need for closed backs sometimes. Then I bought a pair of Hifiman Edition XS. Then I upgraded the hip dac to the ifi zen dac. Lots happened in a year, lol.
This was actually how it happened for me. Never an audiophile, but after watching Dankpods for a week I am starting to learn a lot from these two channels.
I hate being termed an “audiophile” by friends and family but: This video is great, really informative and chill. My biggest advice: slowly build up your audio, don’t go around spending 500 dollars immediately because you heard a pair is good. Also don’t mess around with DACs at the start, and don’t buy an amp unless you really need to, up to about 80ohms and in most cases, any laptop could run the headphones well.
Honestly, this is a must-watch video for anyone even slightly interested in audio. But it's also a great refresher to those who are chin-deep into the audiophile world to pull them back a bit and appreciate their world and equipment therein. Well-balanced content, well-put and overall amazingly well-made video. Never thought of myself as an audiophile but I found myself somewhere between Levels 2 and 3, at least from a technical knowledge perspective. Quite an interesting personal revelation, tbh.
This was so easy/enjoyable to watch, and for a 30 min video about stuff I've already heard, that says a lot about the quality of your stuff. Keep it up man.
Thanks for making this vid! This is a godsend for anyone getting into audio. Wish there was someone to guide me like this when I was beginning my journey haha. Appreciate it!
Eric was 100% spot on with his opening statement. As a IT professional, like most my co-workers had all been audiofile guys and they baked me into the AF oven. I think its honestly about learning what kind of sound your looking for from a headphone first before "claiming" the best. I now have about 18 sets. Some of my tops are HD600, HD598cs, M1060, VM 100CM, HarmonicDyne Zeus. Right now my fav....is so funny Koss KPH30iCL with the Grado pads......like a WTF probably the most comfy headphones on the planet. The Headphones next on my list to purchase MDR-Z1R and TH900..... After trying so many headphones ( this is just the list of top headphones I own and want, I have tried many more ) I know what sound I like out of headphones and what sounds don't interest me. So when presented "the best" headphones I under stand audio quality is very subjective and its not your job to convince others how they hear is wrong its just different. Great video! will pass this around for sure.
I'm new to the audiophile hobby myself, but I've owned almost 10 different headsets ranging from $100 to over $300. The single *biggest* lesson I've learned is that a $300 gaming headset is nowhere near the same as $300 headphones. The switch from closed to open was also a massive difference. I recently switched from the Logitech G Pro X to Audio Technicia ATH-ADG1X paired to a SoundblasterX G6. I've spent the last few months re-experiencing games and music and the difference in soundstage, detail and cleanliness is insane. I've got the Phillips X2HR/00 on order now and I'm really excited to hear the difference between my current AT's and the Phillips. Overall, my gaming and listening experience has completely changed in general and I'm hooked. It's definitely an experience that needs to be heard to be believed.
@@ThunderDraws They're absolutely my favorite headphones I've ever had. I paired mine with a set of Elite Velour replacement earpads from Dekoni and it really set them off!
I picked up studio headphones I had lying around since I got them as a gift, never used them before because I thought for some reason they'd be worse than my current headphones--and it *completely* changed my listening experience. I've been freaking out about music for the past few months. I want more of this
You had me at the ‘Pizza Factor” line, I said thats it I gotta push the like button. Your remarkable effort to explain all details big and small about headphones in such simplified ways (pizza factor as an example) to very basic consumer like myself is a gift from God So the least I could say is “thank you” for all the effort and time spent on this video
I subscribe to your channel but just stumbled across this - it’s a truly excellent primer/summary. After more decades than I want to remember I’ve reached that stage of chasing those last tiny percentages of improvement but, to get to that stage, really requires a lot of auditioning, mistakes and going down rabbit holes in this hobby. The only advice I would give is don’t go out spending kilobucks on things just because they are recommended because it’s difficult to appreciate differences. It’s a journey with inevitable mistakes so start with lower priced gear and learn the sound qualities that make you happy - trust your ears.
*Thanks for the video!* It reminds me about how I began my Hi-Fi journey by using cheap headphones that were pluged 90% of the times to my phone or laptop. Then I got bored of those because of their poor quality and decided to buy a pair of the cheapest Sennheiser that I could find (HD 206), and a year and half later I got another pair also from Sennheiser; this time were the HD 559 with open back that I'm keeping for at least 5 years after trying products from Grado, Harman/Kardon, Marshall, Sony and Bowers & Wilkins. After that period of time we'll see what comes next... It amazes me how incredible the sound experience became after getting the HD559, that in the beginning I had to put them off to hear if my speakers were active, and now I'm more than conscious about why _(if you love good sound and music)_ should invest in quality instead of quantity.
I am studying mechanical engineering now and seeing a real engineer talk about technology that interests me.... man it makes me excited to get this degree and go out there and contribute to the cutting edge of this stuff.
My dad finally gave me his vintage mint 1988 kenwood stack setup that I've always wanted. He gave me a Sennheiser headphone set along with it. At first I just assumed he ordered them for 15$ from a grandpa magazine but once I put them on and tried them out I knew they weren't junk and actually were quality headphones. Now I'm over here getting educated on audiophile.
I'm not an audiophile, i do however believe that the guys who centre their hobbys around headphones probably have the best headphone recommendations which is why i'm here.
Thank you for helping out us audio enthusiasts. As an expat living far from any hi-fi retail outlets I absolutely rely upon quality and intelligible product and systems reviews. Thanks for having Abyss on, just found my end-game headphones!
This was one of the most comprehensive and detailed explanation without BS and needless 'product pushing'. Really appreciate the effort to put all this together. As a beginner and head-fi lurker I have known the basics but for the first time I have seen it being put so succinctly and simply, yet in a way that's not watered down TOO much. Great balance. Love your style. I have a quick quick query. I have been eyeing the Elex for over a year now, and this video just convinced me to go for it. Wanted to know which bluetooth enabled Dac Amp would you recommend for it? So far it's between: 1. ifi Neo DSD 2. Topping DX7 pro (I can use the extra headphone output there matching what's provided with the Elex - but no MQA). Will the high output impedance that some people mention, adversely affect the Elex? IS missing out on MQA That bad? 3. ifi xDSD (everything about this sounds great, except lack of balanced output?) @joshua Please do help me out. Am i missing something in my research? Or will any of these be just perfectly fine? I'm definitely sure I want bluetooth and a combo, not separate dac / amp. Thanks in advance for your help!
I dont think ive seen a single youtube video pushing products from any audiophile. I find most of them to be generally down to earth critiques the other hand, completely different story.
Just a second, I have been shopping for a set of headphones since my wife and I started sharing a hobby room and I have been looking for something to use to just listen to music or produce my podcast. I have a slight disability (I have 3000hz deafness) so it takes some shopping around to find what I like. These audiophile headphone review videos are produced really really well and they are a pleasure just to listen to.
I tried very much to like the HD 6XX. I got a nice amp, a custom balanced cable, and did the software EQ on my PC, but the clamp pressure made them too painful to wear. I tried gently bending them outward many times, and left them extended over a box when not in use, hoping that they would become used to the shape and clamp my poor head less. After 6 weeks of getting a bad headache immediately after putting them on, I abandoned the 6XX. No sound quality is worth that kind of physical pain. I'm now using the Hifiman Sundara (2020 rev) and I'm very happy. No pain, and they sound wonderful after EQ.
Joshua, this content is excellent. From someone who has always dabbled in the "audiophile" life, I find this incredibly helpful as I've never really known where to start properly. Thank you but damn you for re-igniting an expensive hobby :)
Glad to see Eric from ABYSS on this one! If you haven't already, check out their channel. Super in-depth discussions about all things audio. And some not (see refrigerator review)
For me comfort has turned out to be the most important factor when choosing a headphone. I use them for 4-10h a day and would take a comfortable but bad sounding headphone over a good, uncomfortable one in a heartbeat.
@@objectaa !!! Thanks for an answer! I’ll look into it, by the time you answer I bought some senheiser and I was scared to use them outside lol! I don’t have a dac , my laptop being Apple was made with high ohms in mind but not my phones! The Philips might solve my issue!
I have been thinking of getting into audiophile headphones for a while and your review of the HE400i actually influenced me to get a HE400se. Glad to see you recommending them for beginners haha. Great video with top notch editing, as always
So I got a budget of about $80-$140 and plan on using the headphone primarily for Gaming and Listening music. I plan on using it for at least 6 hour sessions, so it has to be quite comfortable. I'm currently looking at the Philips SHP9600, because open back sounds quite appealing from what I've read.
I own Phillips SHP 9600 headphones. I would say go for the SHP 9500 because it is much better value and has a more balanced sound signature, unless you prefer more bass.
Generally I recommend everyone to research frequency responses and technical terms when describing headphones like imaging/soundstage, things that dont show up on frequency graphs. Understand the graphs and play around with equalizers to further understand them. And never forget that the hobby is completely subjective and the only thing that matters is if YOU like the sound.
Thank you for this. There has been many audiophile videos that i wanted to share with close friends but was afraid they wouldnt understand. This is a great bridge to the average music listener.
I have the SHP9500, should've waited around a little longer for the 600's, but still..I think the 500's do deserve a spot on the list of beginner headphones.
@@Syahburei yeah they're great! 3 years no issues. Although, if you have big ears like mine. I'd suggest replacing the thin stock pads for some cheap thick third party pads. Replacing them is as easy has snapping the stock ones off and snapping the new ones on.
I'm begginer and my first audiophile headphone is the Sivga Phoenix and I couldn't be happier. My favorite genre is funk and also love to listen to some studio groove sessions... This headphone was made for me. :)
Your presentation of the english language can initially trigger.. subjective.. reservations.. to, err, non audio people, but once you get past that, the actual content from all your videos, especially this one, is above and beyond. Thanks for making them, learned alot. Or Its clear you love it and thanks for spewing it out for youtube.
I really love Audio Technica headphones for the price. AD900X (my fav low-impedance open-back neutral reference, also amazing for gaming), MSR7, M50X-BT (excellent wireless headphones I bring with me anywhere I don't want to take the aforementioned models) are all incredible, especially for the value. My dream headphones would be the ADX5000, I'm still not sure I could ever bring myself to spend two grand on headphones, but if so then I'd buy those.
Josh! Great video. An amazing intro for those starting out. One thing that might be important to note is that planar magnetic headphones require a ton of power too, despite their low impedance. It's just that need more current rather than the greater voltage that dynamic headphones require.
This was one of the best headphone videos I have ever seen. Much appreciated your explanation on the different types of headphones and how much detail of sound relates to the price.
Very well put together video Josh! Was a pretty interesting watch even for non-beginner audiophiles. I'd be happy if you could put together a similar video for level 1-3 DACs, AMPs, and combos of both! I feel like that's a more difficult topic to get into for new people once they go past the headphone selection.
Just upgraded from my Sennheiser HD518's to the HD599 SE and they are 100% a good entry level headphone for Audiophiles and can be driven on anything without an Amp, will say a phone will need to be turned up but any laptop or setup more powerful then a phone will have enough sound to deafen you. Can't wait to keep going and eventually get into Amps/Dacs and get some nicer looking and feeling cables going and eventually even try balanced outputs.
Step 1. Find Your 10 favourite songs. Ideally, they should be a mixture of styles. Rock/pop/classical and so on. Songs that you know inside and out. Put them on a USB or CD in the highest quality you can. Step 2. Find a store that will allow you to try headphones using your music. Explain what you wish to do. Step 3. Budget. How much are you willing to spend? Do you have a good sound system? Would you buy headphones and then perhaps want to upgrade your sound system? If you have a good sound system and have no plans to upgrade, all your budget can go on your headphones, but if your system is lacking, you might want to ease off on the headphone price so you can upgrade your system. Step 4. Try to test the headphones on a system close to what you have (unless you are going to upgrade in the future) There is no point testing headphones on a 20K setup if you are going home to a system that cost you $500. It's not going to sound the same. Step 5. If you listen to a lot of headphones, make a shortlist and go back the next day or a few days later. If you keep swapping dozens of times, your ears will get messed up and you will doubt yourself or start hearing things that are not there. Basically, a sensory overload. Step 6. Ask questions. If the shop/salesperson is good at what they do, they should be willing to answer questions and give you good advice. Don't rush it, some headphones are not cheap and the last thing you want is to buy on impulse or because a sales person wants their %.
@@nightmer420 Sadly it's not easy. 1st you need a headphone you like price wise/build/reviews/try it. Then you need to google "good amp for DT 1990 pro" Again, you need to see what people say and the prices. Amps can change your headphones for the better and for the worse. Some work well together and some don't. Luckily there are 10.000s people who have already bought lots of stuff and written about it online, so whichever headphones you set your heart on, there will be a lot of people who have already done what you are about to. Ideally, try to buy/try the headphones you want from someplace so you can try them out together......or Amazon...try...send back :-). If you do the Amazon thing, find three amps, try them out (better to do when all there so you can swap from one to the other) Keep the best and return the other two for a refund. Also bear in mind that some amps are just amps, whereas some come with built-in DACs. The DAC inside will also play a part in the sound, that's why trying two or three will help.
@@nightmer420 Remember if you are paying out to hear a big change in your music, forget MP3 files. You need FLAC files. Though it's not available with every song, try to find 24bit files (16bit is the norm) as they do sound even better.
I can see why Josh did not mention the Modhouse Argon. It has attributes of all 3 categories and even confuses me an intermediate user. I have "better" headphones but the Argon still stands strong in my listening rotation.
I'm surprised the K361 wasn't in Level 1, as a closed-back option. Actually, no closed backs here seems kind of a problem. That said, I like the idea overall. I agree with a lot of the points and think this seems a good beginners guide.
For beginners its much better to take the risk of getting a pair of open backs. It in my opinion a much better representation of what real headphones can do for music. Then you can start to finetune your sound and use case. But every audiophile own open headphones for a reason.
Great video, Josh. Just a little misunderstanding many reviewers do. Higher impedance headphones need more VOLTAGE, not power. The mobile devices drive typically low voltage output (1-2 Vrms) and it is not enough for high impedance low efficiency drives.
Hey Josh, Just wanted to say how informative your videos are. I am happy with my current setup and am not looking to upgrade (Atom Stack, Focal Elegia's, HD560S's). That said, I still find myself drawn to your videos because of the way you present the chosen information. Thanks for the time you put into every one of your videos ;-)
i am looking for a beter then i currently own headphone, this video came by and made me think differently about the way i choose headphones… one of the best videos , serious but not to serious, good info and insight to understand the basics thanx!
Hey Josh, thank you for sharing your knowledge, I have always wondered if there is any difference between an audio interface and DAC/amp. I know that the audio interface definitely does the job of an DAC, but what about amplification? My apogee duet seems to easily drive my 250ohm Beyerdynamic. According to my Major requirement, I will need to buy an even better one in the future which makes me wonder if there is a need for me to buy amps and DACs that's specifically for "hifi"
Joshua … this is awesome sir. I just finished asking for more of these types of videos for the budget minded beginner in your last video and I GREATLY appreciate it more than you know. One person was extremely rude bcuz of my request and I found him quite offensive with foul language. I will be ordering one of the pair of headphones you’ve mentioned in your video immediately. I’ve had my eye in a pair for a bit and today you cemented that for me. Thanks again Joshua and I’m Positive I’ll see you in your next one. Until then… stay safe and happy listening 👊
Bro thank you so much for putting this video together. The way you explain things really takes the user on a journey and allows them to enjoy great audio much faster!
I saw this video length/title in my recommendations and I thought there is no way the content/production could be that good I was very wrong this is excellent content I can recommend to others.
One of the main lessons I learned from Joshua and other good headphone reviewers is to start cultivating a listening habit focussing on what I like to hear. The way we interpret sound is very much a personal choice and the lack of quality on any headphone depends on how you cultivate your listening habits. And for a begineer audiophile to take time and listen to a lot before jumping into an expensive purchases. Start with what you can afford because it is going to be a journey. Also our preferences do change. Have fun while at it! Its very much like music. I dont like to listen to some of the bands I loved in my youth anymore.. so will be the case with headphones.
Always bugs me when people say things like "the ohms" (6:42). "Ohm" is the unit of measure. Like how "miles per hours" is the unit for speed in a car, or "degrees" is the unit of temperature for an oven. Or "pounds" for your weight. No one would ask "what are the miles per hour you are going?", they'd ask "what speed are you going?" And no one would ask "what are the degrees of the oven?", they'd ask "how hot is the oven?" And definitely no one would ask "what pounds are you?", they'd ask "how much do you weigh?" mph -> speed temperature -> degrees weight -> pounds impedance -> ohms Thanks, done... I'll finish being OCD over there.
Your video making skills reaching insane level. So precise audio transitions with visuals always hit a spot. p.s. this summer will have exact your Arya setup. Thanks for all your work.
This is an enormously helpful video for anyone interested in enjoying music more. Mr Valour has a whole series of excellent videos, in my opinion this is his absolute best.
This is actually one of the coolest videos i’ve seen, like ever. From the theme and sound of the transitions, to the very accessible information, everthing was perfect. I am a huge petrolhead, to the point i could cry seeing (and hearing, heh) some (many) of my dream cars, but in the end they are just cars. It is quite projectable to the audio world, because music can be emotionally very moving, especially hearing it in its purest form. In the end we are all just trying to apprechiate the beauty of music and forget all the gear. Also the filming was excellent in your video! Maybe i should get into filming aswell.. Thank you!
One of the reasons I got a pair of hifiman sundaras was your video about them. When you praised them so much I just HAD to buy them. I paired them with a fiio q5s TC and wow they sound amazing, nothing like I've ever heard before. This was, in my opinion, my first actual entry move into the audiophile world.
Newbie. I can give 100 to the DAC and 150-200 on headphones. You're review was clear. I do appreciate it. AKG is my go to but I might open up to the Planare drivers. Thanks.
I'm not sure I had as much issue with that as the "earpad differences are not as important as people think" that is fundamentally untrue. It's perhaps one of the things a beginning audiophile can look at early and hear for themselves the difference.
The best advice I can give to anyone starting this hobby:
1. Audiophiles exaggerate slightest changes
2. Be skeptical of those who overuse our terminology
3. There is no headphone that is the best at everything
4. Enjoy your time in budget & mid range budgets. Only go hi end once you’ve established your preferences
5. Diminishing returns is real after ~$500 and especially past ~$1500
let’s be honest, above 1.3k studio monitor speaker is starting to beat even best in class headphones for around the same price. there are only so much a headphone can do with the size of their driver
@@qupeter1224 True
What do you think is the "best" headphone for female vocals and rock music? I'm having a though time finding an upgrade from my HD 6XX.
@@crazyforcs not a crazy knowledgeable person, but my guess is for the price range you really won’t find much better, but again it has SOOO much to do with personal opinion and style, regardless you do have a great headphone rn!
@@qupeter1224 Seriously for me I can hear a lot more details and nuances with headphones.
I can hear a lot more new things and even change my thoughts on some of the songs when I upgraded to high end headphones stuff. It made me go through and listen to my entire music library again to hear what I may have missed out on before.
With speakers you need to have the proper placement and room treatment to get a proper sound, then you have to sit in the right position and you have to be courtesy of your neighbours and people living with you…. It just too much hassle for me…
The biggest problem of the Audiophiles, the cheaper headphones don't satisfy them, the expensive ones are out of their budget.
and they must be ugly.
YES! 🤗
@@gokzilla idk I think I’m pretty
Not necessarily, a lot of iems and quit a few over ear headphones sound very good today.
@@starchysgraveyardshift you are not headphones tho
I've been an audiophile for 47 years. In my opinion, Eric gave the most holistic, all encompassing and accurate answers I have ever heard come from one person on the subject in such a short period of time.
As a newcomer to the hobby, i appreciate the confirmation, he sounded very knowledgable and properly succinct.
Audiophiles' idea of purgatory - any typical live concert
Audiophiles' idea of hell - a faithful recording of that concert
the video quality and editing is top notch, looks professionally filmed and edited (atleast to the common eye) , highly underrated channel !
agreed. easily one of my favorite channels
The audio quality was quite good too for some reason 🤔
Underrated I don't think so we audiophile's are low in number .
Ok
This video will ruin a lot of bank accounts. 😂😂😂
Mine included.
mine did. Welp, time for more
This and fucktons of wagyu got my bank account super sad xD
I’m hesitant on whether or not I should even watch it. 🙃
My account was already ruined before watching this.
Now, I’m ruining my accounts in the future 🥲
Me, a long time audiophile: i n t e r e s t i n g
Lol 😂
Been an audiophile for 3 years and i was like hmmmmmmmmmmmmm
10 year audiophile im laughing xD
If you never heard a HE-1, so you aren’t a true audiophile
Will the LCD-24 rview ever happen?
Enjoy the pizza.
...the price is how much $ ? :D
I like this pizza very much but :D
T H O R O U G H. Very f*ckyng nice ! Does this video mean we'll get a full review of the HE400SE soon?
@@Charlitoz97 Maybe its the best all-arounder sub 300€ :D
This is made me decide what to eat tomorrow. Thanks.
Level 1 0:43
Level 2 5:00
Level 3 16:24
Just discovered this channel a few weeks ago and really enjoying it. I've been listening to the same pair of Sennheiser HD595s plugged straight into my computer for the last ~12 years. I've finally decided it's time for a real setup, so I'm having a ton of fun over-researching the decision.
Most of the fun is in the researching.
Did you come to a conclusion lol
@@no.one.2 @Jason I started off small with an ifi hip dac and the hifiman 4XX. I really liked the 4XX but they were a bit uncomfortable and the band snapped after 6 months.
Then I bought the Sennheiser 6xx because I knew they would never break.
Then I bought a pair of DT770's because I wanted more low end and had a need for closed backs sometimes.
Then I bought a pair of Hifiman Edition XS.
Then I upgraded the hip dac to the ifi zen dac.
Lots happened in a year, lol.
The interview was super interesting!
Check out Abyss Headphones YT Channel as well they talk a lot more in depth about sound in General
floppa do be an audiophile
This is the most clear, straight forward, honest and interesting introduction to hi-fi here on TH-cam! Go Joshua! :D
I could listen to Eric and you talk about this stuff for hours and hours and wouldn't get bored.
Me too , im so into this
Dude same!!
Took this right out of my mouth
@@techsyndrome3291 Are you bored with it now!
We audiophiles need to put you and dankpods together
Let dankpods lure the outsiders in and then you begin lecturing them 😂
The algorithm has already linked them. I speak from experience
And I was thinking the same thing
I actually knew this channel from watching Dankpods. Dank really pulls me to audiophile while Josh taught me a lot
The crossover we want AND need
This was actually how it happened for me. Never an audiophile, but after watching Dankpods for a week I am starting to learn a lot from these two channels.
I hate being termed an “audiophile” by friends and family but:
This video is great, really informative and chill.
My biggest advice: slowly build up your audio, don’t go around spending 500 dollars immediately because you heard a pair is good. Also don’t mess around with DACs at the start, and don’t buy an amp unless you really need to, up to about 80ohms and in most cases, any laptop could run the headphones well.
Honestly, this is a must-watch video for anyone even slightly interested in audio. But it's also a great refresher to those who are chin-deep into the audiophile world to pull them back a bit and appreciate their world and equipment therein. Well-balanced content, well-put and overall amazingly well-made video. Never thought of myself as an audiophile but I found myself somewhere between Levels 2 and 3, at least from a technical knowledge perspective. Quite an interesting personal revelation, tbh.
This should have been 100k special, very interesting video.
It’s honestly surprising that he still has less than a million subs.
This was so easy/enjoyable to watch, and for a 30 min video about stuff I've already heard, that says a lot about the quality of your stuff. Keep it up man.
Thanks for making this vid! This is a godsend for anyone getting into audio. Wish there was someone to guide me like this when I was beginning my journey haha. Appreciate it!
Agreed!! This kind of content is oddly sparse in the audio space and would have been super helpful earlier on in my audiophile journey.
Can we give some props to Tyler. Between him and Josh they make amazing looking videos
Wow, Eric for full PR representation, he just have the "know how" and talk skills. Thanks for this Joshua.
Eric was 100% spot on with his opening statement. As a IT professional, like most my co-workers had all been audiofile guys and they baked me into the AF oven. I think its honestly about learning what kind of sound your looking for from a headphone first before "claiming" the best. I now have about 18 sets.
Some of my tops are HD600, HD598cs, M1060, VM 100CM, HarmonicDyne Zeus. Right now my fav....is so funny Koss KPH30iCL with the Grado pads......like a WTF probably the most comfy headphones on the planet. The Headphones next on my list to purchase MDR-Z1R and TH900.....
After trying so many headphones ( this is just the list of top headphones I own and want, I have tried many more ) I know what sound I like out of headphones and what sounds don't interest me. So when presented "the best" headphones I under stand audio quality is very subjective and its not your job to convince others how they hear is wrong its just different.
Great video! will pass this around for sure.
I loved this video, and really enjoyed the collaboration with DMS and Abyss. Just really cool overall :)
I'm new to the audiophile hobby myself, but I've owned almost 10 different headsets ranging from $100 to over $300. The single *biggest* lesson I've learned is that a $300 gaming headset is nowhere near the same as $300 headphones. The switch from closed to open was also a massive difference. I recently switched from the Logitech G Pro X to Audio Technicia ATH-ADG1X paired to a SoundblasterX G6. I've spent the last few months re-experiencing games and music and the difference in soundstage, detail and cleanliness is insane. I've got the Phillips X2HR/00 on order now and I'm really excited to hear the difference between my current AT's and the Phillips. Overall, my gaming and listening experience has completely changed in general and I'm hooked. It's definitely an experience that needs to be heard to be believed.
how did you like the x2hr? mine are arriving tomorrow
@@ThunderDraws They're absolutely my favorite headphones I've ever had. I paired mine with a set of Elite Velour replacement earpads from Dekoni and it really set them off!
I picked up studio headphones I had lying around since I got them as a gift, never used them before because I thought for some reason they'd be worse than my current headphones--and it *completely* changed my listening experience. I've been freaking out about music for the past few months. I want more of this
Thank you DMS, for whatever it is that you do
Is this a running joke for some time now? NO ONE being able to say what DMS does exactly...
@@DieterKoert honestly I don't even know what I do at this point.
@@DMS3TV Thank you Z Reviews, for whatever it is that you do
You had me at the ‘Pizza Factor” line, I said thats it I gotta push the like button.
Your remarkable effort to explain all details big and small about headphones in such simplified ways (pizza factor as an example) to very basic consumer like myself is a gift from God
So the least I could say is “thank you” for all the effort and time spent on this video
Been a subscriber on the Abyss' TH-cam channel. They talk some high level stuff that you can't get elsewhere.
Yes you can, you just have to look for it.
Yeah if you wanna pay $3,000 to 5,000 for a pair of headphones
I subscribe to your channel but just stumbled across this - it’s a truly excellent primer/summary. After more decades than I want to remember I’ve reached that stage of chasing those last tiny percentages of improvement but, to get to that stage, really requires a lot of auditioning, mistakes and going down rabbit holes in this hobby. The only advice I would give is don’t go out spending kilobucks on things just because they are recommended because it’s difficult to appreciate differences. It’s a journey with inevitable mistakes so start with lower priced gear and learn the sound qualities that make you happy - trust your ears.
*Thanks for the video!*
It reminds me about how I began my Hi-Fi journey by using cheap headphones that were pluged 90% of the times to my phone or laptop. Then I got bored of those because of their poor quality and decided to buy a pair of the cheapest Sennheiser that I could find (HD 206), and a year and half later I got another pair also from Sennheiser; this time were the HD 559 with open back that I'm keeping for at least 5 years after trying products from Grado, Harman/Kardon, Marshall, Sony and Bowers & Wilkins. After that period of time we'll see what comes next...
It amazes me how incredible the sound experience became after getting the HD559, that in the beginning I had to put them off to hear if my speakers were active, and now I'm more than conscious about why _(if you love good sound and music)_ should invest in quality instead of quantity.
I am studying mechanical engineering now and seeing a real engineer talk about technology that interests me.... man it makes me excited to get this degree and go out there and contribute to the cutting edge of this stuff.
My dad finally gave me his vintage mint 1988 kenwood stack setup that I've always wanted. He gave me a Sennheiser headphone set along with it. At first I just assumed he ordered them for 15$ from a grandpa magazine but once I put them on and tried them out I knew they weren't junk and actually were quality headphones. Now I'm over here getting educated on audiophile.
I'm not an audiophile, i do however believe that the guys who centre their hobbys around headphones probably have the best headphone recommendations which is why i'm here.
Awesome video.
Favorite line LOL: "Idk what he does, but thanks"
I didn't expect it, but the dive into the economics behind picking the right headhphone driver was fascinating
i like how the abyss rep really dodges the question about other headphones they like.
... and hopefully, you didn't expect an answer? Of course, he couldn't if he wants to keep his job. 😮
Thank you for helping out us audio enthusiasts. As an expat living far from any hi-fi retail outlets I absolutely rely upon quality and intelligible product and systems reviews. Thanks for having Abyss on, just found my end-game headphones!
This was one of the most comprehensive and detailed explanation without BS and needless 'product pushing'. Really appreciate the effort to put all this together. As a beginner and head-fi lurker I have known the basics but for the first time I have seen it being put so succinctly and simply, yet in a way that's not watered down TOO much. Great balance. Love your style.
I have a quick quick query. I have been eyeing the Elex for over a year now, and this video just convinced me to go for it. Wanted to know which bluetooth enabled Dac Amp would you recommend for it? So far it's between:
1. ifi Neo DSD
2. Topping DX7 pro (I can use the extra headphone output there matching what's provided with the Elex - but no MQA). Will the high output impedance that some people mention, adversely affect the Elex? IS missing out on MQA That bad?
3. ifi xDSD (everything about this sounds great, except lack of balanced output?)
@joshua Please do help me out. Am i missing something in my research? Or will any of these be just perfectly fine? I'm definitely sure I want bluetooth and a combo, not separate dac / amp. Thanks in advance for your help!
I dont think ive seen a single youtube video pushing products from any audiophile. I find most of them to be generally down to earth
critiques the other hand, completely different story.
Just a second, I have been shopping for a set of headphones since my wife and I started sharing a hobby room and I have been looking for something to use to just listen to music or produce my podcast. I have a slight disability (I have 3000hz deafness) so it takes some shopping around to find what I like. These audiophile headphone review videos are produced really really well and they are a pleasure just to listen to.
I love the delivery on "the price is ____"
He sounds so matter of fact about it that I just know my wallet is imploding.
Haha 😂 ^ this
I tried very much to like the HD 6XX. I got a nice amp, a custom balanced cable, and did the software EQ on my PC, but the clamp pressure made them too painful to wear. I tried gently bending them outward many times, and left them extended over a box when not in use, hoping that they would become used to the shape and clamp my poor head less. After 6 weeks of getting a bad headache immediately after putting them on, I abandoned the 6XX. No sound quality is worth that kind of physical pain.
I'm now using the Hifiman Sundara (2020 rev) and I'm very happy. No pain, and they sound wonderful after EQ.
Haha that shoutout to DMS in the credits cracked me up. Wish I could like this video twice
Joshua, this content is excellent. From someone who has always dabbled in the "audiophile" life, I find this incredibly helpful as I've never really known where to start properly. Thank you but damn you for re-igniting an expensive hobby :)
Awesome vid! Especially the interview with Eric. 👍
Great video and Eric is a great guest speaker, so engaging and entertaining.
Glad to see Eric from ABYSS on this one! If you haven't already, check out their channel. Super in-depth discussions about all things audio. And some not (see refrigerator review)
Whatever camera you have is freaking GOOD!
The little end card about DMS is like giving him the bird but also saying “love you tho”. ❤️❤️
Gee whiz.....What a good presentation. I appreciate the hard work that was required to make it. Kudos to you and your team.
For me comfort has turned out to be the most important factor when choosing a headphone. I use them for 4-10h a day and would take a comfortable but bad sounding headphone over a good, uncomfortable one in a heartbeat.
exactly. Iam 46 the the most important factor is for me the comfort and than the Sound Quality.
What would you propose that can tcheck both boxes???
I'd say X2HR, maybe they are heavier but the comfort is awesome@@OhWanya
@@objectaa !!! Thanks for an answer! I’ll look into it, by the time you answer I bought some senheiser and I was scared to use them outside lol! I don’t have a dac , my laptop being Apple was made with high ohms in mind but not my phones! The Philips might solve my issue!
I have been thinking of getting into audiophile headphones for a while and your review of the HE400i actually influenced me to get a HE400se. Glad to see you recommending them for beginners haha. Great video with top notch editing, as always
So I got a budget of about $80-$140 and plan on using the headphone primarily for Gaming and Listening music. I plan on using it for at least 6 hour sessions, so it has to be quite comfortable.
I'm currently looking at the Philips SHP9600, because open back sounds quite appealing from what I've read.
I want to try some superluxes, my latest headphones were noga, imagine
I own Phillips SHP 9600 headphones. I would say go for the SHP 9500 because it is much better value and has a more balanced sound signature, unless you prefer more bass.
Generally I recommend everyone to research frequency responses and technical terms when describing headphones like imaging/soundstage, things that dont show up on frequency graphs.
Understand the graphs and play around with equalizers to further understand them.
And never forget that the hobby is completely subjective and the only thing that matters is if YOU like the sound.
Thank you for this. There has been many audiophile videos that i wanted to share with close friends but was afraid they wouldnt understand. This is a great bridge to the average music listener.
one of your very best video's of the last few years, very informative, complete, focused, and recognizable for the ongoing beginner. way the go !
I have the SHP9500, should've waited around a little longer for the 600's, but still..I think the 500's do deserve a spot on the list of beginner headphones.
First time diving into headphones, are the SHP9500 good?
@@Syahburei yeah they're great! 3 years no issues. Although, if you have big ears like mine. I'd suggest replacing the thin stock pads for some cheap thick third party pads. Replacing them is as easy has snapping the stock ones off and snapping the new ones on.
I'm begginer and my first audiophile headphone is the Sivga Phoenix and I couldn't be happier. My favorite genre is funk and also love to listen to some studio groove sessions...
This headphone was made for me. :)
This dude has me hooked on audio gear now. Dang my wife’s gonna hate me.
Your presentation of the english language can initially trigger.. subjective.. reservations.. to, err, non audio people, but once you get past that, the actual content from all your videos, especially this one, is above and beyond. Thanks for making them, learned alot. Or Its clear you love it and thanks for spewing it out for youtube.
Really looking forward to the IEM version of this :P
That Abyss guy was great!! Really knowledgeable, really precise wording, very enjoyable and interesting to listen to
I really love Audio Technica headphones for the price. AD900X (my fav low-impedance open-back neutral reference, also amazing for gaming), MSR7, M50X-BT (excellent wireless headphones I bring with me anywhere I don't want to take the aforementioned models) are all incredible, especially for the value. My dream headphones would be the ADX5000, I'm still not sure I could ever bring myself to spend two grand on headphones, but if so then I'd buy those.
man, I've been binging on the audio side of youtube and I finally came across a video that really knows their stuff. Cheers!
Josh! Great video. An amazing intro for those starting out. One thing that might be important to note is that planar magnetic headphones require a ton of power too, despite their low impedance. It's just that need more current rather than the greater voltage that dynamic headphones require.
This was one of the best headphone videos I have ever seen. Much appreciated your explanation on the different types of headphones and how much detail of sound relates to the price.
Very well put together video Josh! Was a pretty interesting watch even for non-beginner audiophiles. I'd be happy if you could put together a similar video for level 1-3 DACs, AMPs, and combos of both! I feel like that's a more difficult topic to get into for new people once they go past the headphone selection.
Just upgraded from my Sennheiser HD518's to the HD599 SE and they are 100% a good entry level headphone for Audiophiles and can be driven on anything without an Amp, will say a phone will need to be turned up but any laptop or setup more powerful then a phone will have enough sound to deafen you. Can't wait to keep going and eventually get into Amps/Dacs and get some nicer looking and feeling cables going and eventually even try balanced outputs.
It’s nice to see the hi-fi audio market developing again after 20 years of putting up with crappy sources like mp3 and the gear around it.
Hey Joshua, thanks a lot for this. One of the best informational videos on the internet, haha.
Step 1. Find Your 10 favourite songs. Ideally, they should be a mixture of styles. Rock/pop/classical and so on. Songs that you know inside and out. Put them on a USB or CD in the highest quality you can.
Step 2. Find a store that will allow you to try headphones using your music. Explain what you wish to do.
Step 3. Budget. How much are you willing to spend? Do you have a good sound system? Would you buy headphones and then perhaps want to upgrade your sound system? If you have a good sound system and have no plans to upgrade, all your budget can go on your headphones, but if your system is lacking, you might want to ease off on the headphone price so you can upgrade your system.
Step 4. Try to test the headphones on a system close to what you have (unless you are going to upgrade in the future) There is no point testing headphones on a 20K setup if you are going home to a system that cost you $500. It's not going to sound the same.
Step 5. If you listen to a lot of headphones, make a shortlist and go back the next day or a few days later. If you keep swapping dozens of times, your ears will get messed up and you will doubt yourself or start hearing things that are not there. Basically, a sensory overload.
Step 6. Ask questions. If the shop/salesperson is good at what they do, they should be willing to answer questions and give you good advice. Don't rush it, some headphones are not cheap and the last thing you want is to buy on impulse or because a sales person wants their %.
the dt 1990 pro with a 200€ apmply is good? what you recomend my for them?
@@nightmer420 Sadly it's not easy. 1st you need a headphone you like price wise/build/reviews/try it. Then you need to google "good amp for DT 1990 pro"
Again, you need to see what people say and the prices. Amps can change your headphones for the better and for the worse. Some work well together and some don't.
Luckily there are 10.000s people who have already bought lots of stuff and written about it online, so whichever headphones you set your heart on, there will be a lot of people who have already done what you are about to.
Ideally, try to buy/try the headphones you want from someplace so you can try them out together......or Amazon...try...send back :-). If you do the Amazon thing, find three amps, try them out (better to do when all there so you can swap from one to the other) Keep the best and return the other two for a refund.
Also bear in mind that some amps are just amps, whereas some come with built-in DACs. The DAC inside will also play a part in the sound, that's why trying two or three will help.
@@mrmrgaming thx for respondin i will see what people use with the dt 1990 pro
@@nightmer420 Remember if you are paying out to hear a big change in your music, forget MP3 files. You need FLAC files. Though it's not available with every song, try to find 24bit files (16bit is the norm) as they do sound even better.
Great video on the real-world basics of choosing a satisfying product that checks-most-of-the-boxes for the listener!
I can see why Josh did not mention the Modhouse Argon. It has attributes of all 3 categories and even confuses me an intermediate user. I have "better" headphones but the Argon still stands strong in my listening rotation.
Your production quality blows me away with every video. Absolutely insane that you’re still under 100k!
I'm surprised the K361 wasn't in Level 1, as a closed-back option. Actually, no closed backs here seems kind of a problem.
That said, I like the idea overall. I agree with a lot of the points and think this seems a good beginners guide.
For beginners its much better to take the risk of getting a pair of open backs. It in my opinion a much better representation of what real headphones can do for music.
Then you can start to finetune your sound and use case. But every audiophile own open headphones for a reason.
This is one of the best videos to help me with headphones I've seen so far. Thanks!
Really excellent intro. You covered so much in such a clear and fun way!!!
Great video, Josh. Just a little misunderstanding many reviewers do. Higher impedance headphones need more VOLTAGE, not power. The mobile devices drive typically low voltage output (1-2 Vrms) and it is not enough for high impedance low efficiency drives.
Hey Josh, Just wanted to say how informative your videos are. I am happy with my current setup and am not looking to upgrade (Atom Stack, Focal Elegia's, HD560S's). That said, I still find myself drawn to your videos because of the way you present the chosen information. Thanks for the time you put into every one of your videos ;-)
i am looking for a beter then i currently own headphone, this video came by and made me think differently about the way i choose headphones…
one of the best videos , serious but not to serious, good info and insight to understand the basics
thanx!
Hey Josh, thank you for sharing your knowledge, I have always wondered if there is any difference between an audio interface and DAC/amp. I know that the audio interface definitely does the job of an DAC, but what about amplification? My apogee duet seems to easily drive my 250ohm Beyerdynamic. According to my Major requirement, I will need to buy an even better one in the future which makes me wonder if there is a need for me to buy amps and DACs that's specifically for "hifi"
Joshua … this is awesome sir. I just finished asking for more of these types of videos for the budget minded beginner in your last video and I GREATLY appreciate it more than you know. One person was extremely rude bcuz of my request and I found him quite offensive with foul language.
I will be ordering one of the pair of headphones you’ve mentioned in your video immediately. I’ve had my eye in a pair for a bit and today you cemented that for me. Thanks again Joshua and I’m Positive I’ll see you in your next one. Until then… stay safe and happy listening 👊
I needed this, thank you.
Bro thank you so much for putting this video together. The way you explain things really takes the user on a journey and allows them to enjoy great audio much faster!
Josh: "Cause its usually a lot of companies sucking their own"
me: finish your sentence please.
I saw this video length/title in my recommendations and I thought there is no way the content/production could be that good I was very wrong this is excellent content I can recommend to others.
One of the main lessons I learned from Joshua and other good headphone reviewers is to start cultivating a listening habit focussing on what I like to hear. The way we interpret sound is very much a personal choice and the lack of quality on any headphone depends on how you cultivate your listening habits. And for a begineer audiophile to take time and listen to a lot before jumping into an expensive purchases. Start with what you can afford because it is going to be a journey. Also our preferences do change. Have fun while at it! Its very much like music. I dont like to listen to some of the bands I loved in my youth anymore.. so will be the case with headphones.
Always bugs me when people say things like "the ohms" (6:42). "Ohm" is the unit of measure. Like how "miles per hours" is the unit for speed in a car, or "degrees" is the unit of temperature for an oven. Or "pounds" for your weight.
No one would ask "what are the miles per hour you are going?", they'd ask "what speed are you going?" And no one would ask "what are the degrees of the oven?", they'd ask "how hot is the oven?" And definitely no one would ask "what pounds are you?", they'd ask "how much do you weigh?"
mph -> speed
temperature -> degrees
weight -> pounds
impedance -> ohms
Thanks, done... I'll finish being OCD over there.
I got my friends hd 600s because they weren’t
“Bassy” enough
Brand new,
nothing wrong with them
And that’s how I got into the audiophile hobby
Hur dur six hunjos
@@lukeprenelle332 head-p-hone-es
@@lukeprenelle332 From ol' mate senny
Loss for your friend I'd say. Even though HD600 sub bass is quite bad, mid bass however is very present.
This is exactly what I was looking. Someone who explains the terminology in a clear and concise way. Thank you!
Your video making skills reaching insane level. So precise audio transitions with visuals always hit a spot.
p.s.
this summer will have exact your Arya setup. Thanks for all your work.
This is an enormously helpful video for anyone interested in enjoying music more. Mr Valour has a whole series of excellent videos, in my opinion this is his absolute best.
I would've laughed if Eric recommended an Abyss headphone for a beginner's first set 😂
This is actually one of the coolest videos i’ve seen, like ever. From the theme and sound of the transitions, to the very accessible information, everthing was perfect. I am a huge petrolhead, to the point i could cry seeing (and hearing, heh) some (many) of my dream cars, but in the end they are just cars. It is quite projectable to the audio world, because music can be emotionally very moving, especially hearing it in its purest form. In the end we are all just trying to apprechiate the beauty of music and forget all the gear. Also the filming was excellent in your video!
Maybe i should get into filming aswell..
Thank you!
In the context of that last question to Eric, you should have asked him about those $2000 cables.
One of the reasons I got a pair of hifiman sundaras was your video about them. When you praised them so much I just HAD to buy them. I paired them with a fiio q5s TC and wow they sound amazing, nothing like I've ever heard before. This was, in my opinion, my first actual entry move into the audiophile world.
That bloke Eric from Abyss is a genius.
Newbie. I can give 100 to the DAC and 150-200 on headphones.
You're review was clear. I do appreciate it.
AKG is my go to but I might open up to the Planare drivers.
Thanks.
Idk what dms does but thanks lmao
Gonna be completely honest, I hit the like button before I watched because I already knew the vid was gonna be fire :D
Abyss who sells $2000 "superconducter" cables is talking about deception in the industry lmfao
I'm not sure I had as much issue with that as the "earpad differences are not as important as people think" that is fundamentally untrue. It's perhaps one of the things a beginning audiophile can look at early and hear for themselves the difference.
Great stuff Josh, and as always superb editing & presentation! 10/10
***READ THIS JOSH*** The patreon link in your Social Media section isn't working dude :) if you have fixed please ignore me