Higher-end closed-back

[sharock]

I'm getting the itch to try a higher-end, closed-back headphone. Maybe something planar. Open-back would be an option but I feel I need some isolation.

I currently have a HD650, HD560s, K371 and Denon D7000. These are used at my PC with Atom amp/dac + Equalizer APO. I use Genelec 8030 + subs + Dirac when I don't need to wear headphones.

Since I can't afford a DCA Stealth, does anybody have any thoughts on the following? They are all mildly discounted due to being open box or b-stock which nearly puts them at USD prices. I would definitely be using EQing to the Harman target with maybe a touch more bass.

I do have concerns about the weight of the LCD-XC having owned an LCD2v1 back in the day.

Honestly, the HD560s with EQ seems good enough to me (except for not isolating) that I question whether it's worth spending any money!

Cheers.

 

[Dunring]

On eBay there's a place selling the Beyerdynamic DT770 250 ohm new for $119 with free shipping. I had a pair in for a few weeks and they're really good and value for the money winner over most closed backs. Listen to all your stuff again with it's deep bass extension. I did have the Aeon closed but trying the filters I just thought it wasn't worth the price.

 

[IAtaman]

I just watched this a few days ago, its Resolve and Chronos from headphones.com talking about their favourite closed backs at different price points as of 2022 . I did not own or listen to ZMFs or Focals but otherwise I had a very similar experience with the headphones they are talking about, and overall I think this is a useful video if you are in the market for some good old closed backs and want to understand what would work for you the best.


Youtube - Best Closed Back Headphones in 2022 - The HEADPHONE Show

 

[sharock]

It would be sweet if Amir measured the Noire. There always seems to be this subjective talk about lack of dynamics and "slam" with DCA.

The LCD-XC seems to get high praise when EQ'd but the weight does put me off.

I guess my post is mainly thinking out loud and nobody can really decide for me. I suppose I was hoping for some comparisons to my current cans. If only I could actually try them somewhere.

 

[AVKS]

It would be sweet if Amir measured the Noire. There always seems to be this subjective talk about lack of dynamics and "slam" with DCA.

The LCD-XC seems to get high praise when EQ'd but the weight does put me off.

I guess my post is mainly thinking out loud and nobody can really decide for me. I suppose I was hoping for some comparisons to my current cans. If only I could actually try them somewhere.

The whole 'lack of slam' stuff is nonsense IMO and IME. I have a pair of Aeon Closed RT along with LCD-2 closed and 2C, HE-500, and HE6-se v2, so headphones praised for 'slam'... the Aeons do just fine. I think the key is to have sufficient power, which doesn't necessarily mean 10s of watts but something that gets into the 1+ range and is capable of current given their very low impedance relative to other headphones. My chain is a Topping E50 balanced --> Lokius with boosts to the bass (personal taste) --> THX 789 balanced, and they can bump at stupid-loud volumes.

 

[sharock]

Update to this thread. After much indecisiveness and the addition of another option (Austrian Audio Hi-X60), I finally gritted my teeth and ordered the LCD-XC.

I was very concerned with the potential weight issue and also just not being that impressed by something which costs £1000.

I'm happy to report that I received it this morning and have no issues with the weight/comfort (so far) and am really enjoying the sound with Oratory's EQ plus some extra bass to taste!