I think it all depends on how much you like to embrace the warmth, as @MRHifiReviews would say. I think Marcello’s a full wrap his arms around it in an embrace guy, whereas with my English upbringing, I’m an avoid the hug entirely if I can help it guy.
So I really like the neutrality of my BF2-Pendant combo with my Aeolus, or BF2-Burson Soloist if I’m using solid state. And I also like the suede universal perforated pads because they dial in the warmth compared to the Aeolus pads.
Funny how a little mail on the process makes you happy when waiting for your ZMF headphone
Blindly buying Aeolus, was dead set on the Rad-0. Decided to try out the ZMF adventure first.
It really all comes down to synergy for my ears. I like the warmth and comfort of the Aeolus stock pads as well as that it provides a different signature to my Verite Opens. However I do prefer the Aeolus off the Pendant and all my dacs are wider staging and more neutral sounding than the warmer leaning bifrost.
My preferences are really a touch warmer than neutral with solid impact and bass information, lovely midrange with excellent vocal/instrument presentation, detailed sparkly treble while not sounding fatiguing but also not losing info on recording, excellent imaging and image separation with a wide, holographic 3D dimensional stage.
The Verite Open fits the majority of my wants, and Aelous is more of my laid back extra midrange and mid bass relax listen or bedside rig.
Edit: I would add that my more neutral wider staging dac with my touch of warmth and impactful tubes is probably fairly close to what @PaisleyUnderground Dave may be creating with his chain depending on the tubes you are rolling!
whereas with my English upbringing, I’m an avoid the hug entirely if I can help it guy.
I feel you @PaisleyUnderground. When I originally got into HiFi, (mid 1980s) I was indoctrinated into the world of British HiFi. I was 18yrs old and had a Lynn LP12 with Ittok LVII tonearm, original Naim Nait and a set of Mordant Short speakers, can’t remember the model. Now as I climb the ladder again, I’m finding that I’m drawn to more neutral, clean gear. I like tube amps, but want the staging and spacious qualities more than “coloration”
I personally didn’t really care for the Aeolus, I’d like to try the Auteur as it seems to be a better fit for me. But that’s just me, and one of the reasons I like to come to this site is that there’s room for everyone, unlike other forums.
Does anyone get a crinkle from the metal plate under the ear pads just when you put them on but does not affect sound and you do not hear it once they’re on?
I came across this when reading about the Aeolus. It’s from the wire mesh popping up, pretty common. You can ask ZMF for some new flat ones. Or I also though maybe if you just take out the wire mesh, but it between two heavy books for a bit to flatten back out. Dunno…
About to pull the trigger on Aeolus, and from what I’ve read on this mammoth thread, perforated Universe Suede pads look like the way to go for me. But how about the headband and strap - leather? suede? combo? I’m in your hands - would love recommendations.
One other question, if folks know from experience. I may be away from my home at delivery time. Do you think ZMF would be OK with updating me near shipment to send to an alternate address?
Want to order TODAY!!! so any help would be appreciated.
Both of my ZMF’s have been shipped via FedEx. When I got the shipping notification, I have always had the option to have the package held at a FedEx store of my choosing and opted for this to pick up the package when I can get to it. Hope this helps!
I’ve heard Universal Suede also. Next question would be perforated or not. I thought perforated were most open, which would be the Aeolus. Plus, would the perforated be a little cooler? I don’t think they run that hot, I’m running stock pads and thinking about Universal Suede also.
I had one with leather and one with suede (headband). You have one less notch with the suede than leather. I think they’re both comfortable. I’ve thought about changing my Aeolus to leather.
As @Lexingtonian said, have Fedex redirect to a Fedex shipping store near you. For myself, that’s what I like to do, pick it up at the end of the day after work or whatever. More convenient. (easier to hide purchases from the wife)
