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: #meta

  • The Audeze Maxwell: a Great Headphone in a Mediocre System (aka I’m not Mad, Just Disappointed)

    The Audeze Maxwell headphones excel in sound quality but suffer from poor software and design, making setup frustrating. While they offer good performance for gaming and music, their connectivity issues and heavy weight limit appeal. Comparatively, alternatives like the Fractal Scape perform better at a lower price, challenging the Maxwell’s recommendation.

  • The Fractal Scape; Please Let this be the Future

    The Fractal Scape is a remarkable wireless gaming headset currently priced at $139.99. It impresses with excellent sound quality, a user-friendly EQ system, and thoughtful design features. While limited by lack of Xbox compatibility and optical audio input, it offers great value for gaming and casual music listening. Highly recommended.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    This content is a collection of frequently asked questions about headphones, audio equipment, and sound quality. It covers topics including the need for DACs and amps, the difference between open and closed-back headphones, recommendations for various price ranges, and the impact of cables and EQ on sound. The answers emphasize personal preference and practical advice…

  • Apple AirPods Pro 3 Review: Worth the Upgrade?

    The Apple AirPods Pro 3 improves on the Pro 2 with better noise cancellation, dust/water resistance, and heart rate monitoring. However, the Pro 2’s sound signature is preferred by many audiophiles. The Pro 3 is a solid choice for casual listeners seeking consumer-friendly audio without a significant upgrade value over the Pro 2.

  • Sennheiser x Drop HD 58X; an even more 6XX-y HD 6XX

    The Sennheiser x Drop HD 58X headphones, priced around $199, offer a bassier alternative to the 6XX while sacrificing some detail. They excel in comfort and midrange sound, making them suitable for those transitioning to audiophile options. However, the 6XX, often on sale for less, remains the recommended choice for critical listening.

  • Hifiman: How I learned to stop worrying and love terrible customer service.

    The author expresses dissatisfaction with Hifiman’s customer service after receiving two defective headphones, resulting in a lengthy return process. Issues included poor communication, upselling attempts, and a lack of resolution. Ultimately, the author advises potential buyers to avoid direct purchases from Hifiman, recommending vendors with better return policies.

  • An apology to Sennheiser Momentum 4 fanbois; they’re better than I thought

    [ORIGINAL MSRP $449.95, frequently listed around $200 on Amazon in November 2025. Purchased used from r/AVExchange for $160.] [Edited 4/18/26: I did a deep dive on the different connection methods for the M4 and how they affect the performance.] [Tl;dr: The Momentum 4 are an intriguing wireless ANC headphone at their current price point. They sound…

  • On being a 43-year-old Deadbeat

    In February, after three reorganizations in six months, the Gates Foundation eliminated my work group and laid me and my colleagues off. For me, it was more unexpected with regards to the timing, rather than the fact of the lay off itself. After the last couple of reorganizations, I more or less figured the writing…

  • My Headphone Review Methodology Explained

    When I decide I want to review something, here’s my methodology: The actual methodology: All told, this is somewhere between a 30-40 hour commitment per review, which is why I tend to focus on the things that I like. If I get a few hours into listening to something and I really don’t like it,…