Hey gang, I’m shopping for a set of planars up to $800. I’ve read a lot of reviews of the usual suspects but I’m curious what your thoughts are. I’m looking for something neutral, non-fatiguing, highly revealing and, good imaging. Some degree of comfort would be nice as well lol. Soundstage size is not a priority. Thanks.
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Hmmm, I don’t know if you need to spend that much, I would say the hifiman sundara would be a good pick, it’s a bright neutral, smoother, good detail, and good imaging
The aeon 2 closed would also be something to look into imo
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If non fatiguing is your main priority, I suggest the Audeze LCD-2C as they are much warmer in the treble region.
If you want neutral with some sparkle in the treble, then the Hifiman Sundara would work well.
Just out of curiosity, what gear will you be using as far as source/chain?
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Those guys are outside my budget unfortunately so they’re not an option.
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I would be concerned with the somewhat mediocre imaging and not the best detail, also finding a used lcd 2 might be a better option if you go that way
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CDs or FLAC via Audirvana → Schiit Bifrost Multi → Schiit Saga for volume control (stepped attenuator FTW) → Pass Labs WHAMMY amp (volume pot bypassed).
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Aha, thanks! Never heard of Audio46 before.
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I understand and agree. Just gauging the importance/priority on non fatiguing. It really depends on how high on the OP’s priority list non fatiguing is. If that is the main priority, the LCD-2C makes sense.
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Non-fatiguing is a priority.
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That’s true, but even then, I think getting an lcd 2 would be a better choice because it’s similarly non fatiguing but somewhat more refined overall with better technicalities
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If you have some sensitivity to bright treble, then the Audeze LCD-2C or LCD-2 make sense…but they are heavy…
And @M0N is right that the LCD-2 is better than the LCD-2C as far most technical categories. It is a tad more expensive though and is right at the top limit of your budget.
The other suggestion @M0N made with the Dan Clark Audio Aeon Flow 2 is another solid choice. I’m actually interested in those headphones myself…
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Used they can easily be found under 700 or a fair bit less
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Again, I agree…just depends on if OP is willing to buy used. But, the Aeon Flow 2 is a solid recommendation at the top of his budget.
I really need to audition the AF2. If they fixed the AF1 issues like you have said, they probably sound pretty awesome…
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Thanks for the suggestions. It’s not a particular sensitivity to bright treble just that I can still hear way up there and too much of it can get annoying real quick. Although I guess that could be considered a sensitivity lol.
I’ve looked at the Sundaras, Sivgas and, their clones and all seem to be a bit bright up top from what I’ve read. So the Aeons or Audezes may be the ticket.
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Hmm, the sundara might not be the best choice then lol. The aeon 2 or audeze sound good lol
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Try Quad era-1 or Hifiman edx v2.
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What about the hifiman Drop edition XX?
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That’s leaning more dark and warm, not something I would personally say is neutral, but it’s nice