Yes, the original Clear. As for ZMF, above is probably best. I’ve heard and read the Atticus is the most “fun” for what it’s worth.
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Hi, I need some advice badly please!
I am thinking of getting an A&K Kann Alpha or a Hugo2. Both are used. The Hugo2 is older so it’s only ~400USD more expensive than the Kann Alpha (which was purchased in May).
I have a Clear Mg, Celestee, Auteur, Argons. I also am thinking of getting another ZMF this November.
Which do you think would be best for a portable solution for me? Or, should I even bother with portables given my headphones?
Appreciate any thoughts and advice you can send my way. I’m soooo confused right now!
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Of those two options, I’d go Hugo2, but that’s just me. If I was in your situation, I’d honestly skip the portable option and invest in a high quality tube amplifier, seeing as you have a pair of ZMFs and are considering another. Those high impedance headphones love tubes! Something from Amps and Sound, naturally.
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Atticus is pure, lush fun for sure.
I haven’t suggested them because of the specs our mate was looking for: the Aeolus are more controlled IMHO and have a more reference FR being warm and more present in bass region at the same time.
Totally agree with you.
Hugo 2 is a great value, great sounding piece of equipment with a reference and powerful output
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Could you tell us how you intend to use it? For example: listening while outside on the porch or while commuting or at the office.
I have both a DAP and the Hugo 2, and for me they satisfy different use cases. I prefer the DAP with IEMs and when I’m going to be moving about, e.g. taking a walk or commuting. I prefer the Hugo 2 with headphones and when I’m more stationary so it can sit on a desk or side table, e.g. at the office or in a hotel.
Edit: not to say that either couldn’t serve all those use cases, but knowing in which situations you will use the device might sway your decision toward one or the other.
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Actually, all of the above…something I could put in a small bag and take with me. I was hoping to have 1 really good portable solution that could be applicable for various use cases when I’m not in front of my listening station at home.
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Yeah, I see what you mean. Unless I have an IEM or something, I suppose my current headphone line up isn’t that “portable” to begin with.
Why is this hobby so expensive??!?!? I wish I was into button collecting or something!
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I believe quite firmly that the Hugo will serve you well on both situations and the quality of the sound it will give you a lot more satisfactions. Not saying A&K aren’t good products: I love my SR25 but as a portable solution only and with IEM/dynamic driver headphones.
The hobby is very expensive, you’re right. That’s because of us, of our search for the next step. It it wasn’t this hobby would have been something else, may better, maybe a lot worst.
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That DAP and the Celestee would make beautiful music together. The other headphones would benefit more from the Hugo2.
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Focals on A&K sound so good. Great synergy.
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Ok, I think I’m going with the Hugo2. Seems to be the general sentiment! I
Thanks so much everyone!
I will be able to sleep in peace now that I know what to do! My bank account, not so much!
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I am looking for wireless . I need these equipped with microphones for hearing impairment . These need to be Bluetooth for cell phone linkup. Need high quality to deal with management conversations.
Are you saying you want microphones built into the headphones/earphones to amplifier what is around you?
Thanks Nuance.
Don’t get me wrong, I really do like the Ananda. I’d read lots about it and seen several Youtube posts about it. For me it tended to get very accurate descriptions overall. I’m under no illusions that it’s one of the best headphones but for me it’s very good for what I want and looks to be good value. I find the treble and midrange to be fine. Both of my amps appear to me counter any brightness from the Ananda. I bought them with that intention. I expected them to add a little smoothness. All I’m looking to do is add a little more articulate bass and if possible a little more slam.
How do you feel the Celestine compares to the Clear, especially for bass and slam?
Thanks for the recommendations.
If you want a warmer sound in Focal line up check the Radiance. @Chrono and @MRHifiReviews have videos on YouTube that will give you an idea.
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That’s what I thought, I was just not sure about the what the OC stood for. I’ll check out the Aeolus, I’m not sure how easy it is to get ZMF over here. I know there is someone who sells them, just not sure about availability and pricing. I did consider a Sciit DAC but the guy who deals with them in the UK just didn’t know when he might be getting a delivery. A lot of his Schiit stuff was sold out which was why I bought the Topping.
Thanks
Thanks Elliot, much appreciated.
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Something like this may be what you’re looking for. I haven’t used this so i can’t recommend but it’s worth researching. I believe Etymotic was known for this type of product before venturing into iems. Seems to be made for exactly what you’re looking for.
The galaxy buds+ have a pass through that amplifies ambient sound but it makes a white noise effect. Like a seashell over your ear, hum kind of sound. It has 3 levels of amplification…at the highest setting I find it pretty distracting. Probably not the best solution. Suppose it depends on the level of hearing loss you’re dealing with.
Edit: Looking into this further… I guess it’s not really an iem but solely a hearing aid. Maybe not what you’re after.
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