Comments on: Review: Audio Technica ATH-A500 + Headroom Total Airhead

By: David

David — Tue, 21 Nov 2006 18:41:30 +0000

Gotta agree Matt, DIY, like content, is king.
The ATH-A500’s are excellent, but I do prefer open back phones for sound quality.
Sounds more, well, open.

By: Matt Burris

Matt Burris — Mon, 15 May 2006 18:46:43 +0000

I’m always aware that DIY is better in 99% of the cases. I build my own computers from the ground up, save a lot of money in the process, and they tend to be better than the equilavent priced Dell/Gateway/HP pre-built systems by a mile.

With headphone amps seeming to gain in popularity these days, perhaps we’ll see more reputable shops selling them besides just Headroom (who can charge a premium for the misconception that they spread due to lack of competition.)

I’m definitely enjoying the sound.

By: Konstantinos Christidis

Konstantinos Christidis — Mon, 15 May 2006 07:54:33 +0000

All well then, you seem to have research this well. I’m just trying to fight the perception that Headroom amps are the best one can get for their money.

Obviously, if you care for the warranty, and don’t want to deal with DIY (or hiring a DIYer to do it for you), which sounds like you, Headroom’s offerings are back in the table.

Enjoy the sound!

By: Matt Burris

Matt Burris — Mon, 15 May 2006 07:31:35 +0000

Yea, only one way, and that’s the even emptier wallet way. I’m well aware that being an enthusiast can be expensive. For gaming, I’ve become very demanding when it comes to graphic card technology.

FSAA and anisotropic filtering are technologies that make games look much better at the cost of performance, and it’s expensive to feed that addiction of high quality graphics. I imagine it will be the same way as one become more discerning with headphone audio.

As I mentioned in the 9rules forum thread, I know of MINT/PINT amps, but just went with Headroom largely for the support/warranty.

Alas, it’s the cost of pleasure in life.