Phil's Superpower of Enthusiasm

A place to write about things I enjoy, for my own edification. Headphones, audio gear, albums, whiskey, wine, golden retrievers etc.

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Lawyer, unabashed nerd and geek. Purveyor and pusher of excellent sci-fi/fantasy, good food, and repartee. He/him. Dog dad/servant to @Goldendenali.

I’m experimenting with Amazon Affiliate status in an attempt to defray some of the costs of headphone reviews; Amazon links may be affiliate links (depending on whether or not I’ve figured out how to use them correctly). Please feel free to buy elsewhere; this is just one way to recoup the costs of this hobby.

Category: #101

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    This is a compilation of questions that I frequently respond to on Reddit and my stock answers, gathered mostly for my own convenience. Table of Contents: Question: Do I need a DAC or amp to run my headphones out of my computer? Answer: Most computers have high output impedance on their audio jacks, which changes…

  • Two steps forward, one step back: the Sennheiser HD 660S2

    The Hifiman Sundara, priced at $179 new, impresses for its performance in the competitive open-back headphone market. Although four years old, it is well-tuned, with a neutral sound and great detail retrieval. The headphones excel with simpler tracks, though comfort could improve. A potential update would be highly anticipated.

  • The Hifiman HE6se v.2: a Great Value in Planars

    The Hifiman HE6se v.2: a Great Value in Planars

    The Hifiman HE6se v2, originally priced at $1,899, offers impressive sound quality for its discounted price of $359. It’s noted for its exceptional detail, soundstage, and instrument separation, making it ideal for critical listening, especially in jazz and acoustic genres. However, it may not suit casual or bass-heavy music as well.

  • Hifiman Sundara: A Classic in Open-Back Headphone Design

    The Hifiman Sundara, priced at $179 new, impresses for its performance in the competitive open-back headphone market. Although four years old, it is well-tuned, with a neutral sound and great detail retrieval. The headphones excel with simpler tracks, though comfort could improve. A potential update would be highly anticipated.

  • Headfi Audio for Dummies

    Headfi Audio for Dummies

    The post outlines essential concepts for building a headphone audio system, emphasizing four rules of hi-fi: personal preference, the value of used gear, the unpredictable interplay of components, and upgradeability. It details necessary equipment, types of headphones, and considerations for amplification, digital-to-analog converters, sources, media quality, and cables, stressing affordability and personal choice in audio…