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.

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  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Sennheiser’s HD 600; a True Classic

    [ORIGINAL MSRP $499.99, currently available on Amazon for around $280 or directly from Sennheiser for $299.95 in September 2025.] [Tl;dr: The Sennheiser HD600 are a classic for a reason, and are still a truly excellent headphone in 2025, almost 30 years after they were first released. My only big complaint about them is that they’re $100…

  • 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.

  • Sennheiser’s HD 660S; an Unfortunate Twist on an Old Classic

    Sennheiser’s HD 660S; an Unfortunate Twist on an Old Classic

    The Focal Elegia closed-back headphones, originally priced at $890, are now valued around $300. Praised for their excellent sound quality and construction, they outperform many rivals, especially at used prices below $400. The Elegia offers a refined bass, clean mids, and precise treble, making them a recommended choice for enthusiasts.

  • The Focal Elegia; an Elegy for a Gone but not Forgotten Closed Back

    The Focal Elegia; an Elegy for a Gone but not Forgotten Closed Back

    The Focal Elegia closed-back headphones, originally priced at $890, are now valued around $300. Praised for their excellent sound quality and construction, they outperform many rivals, especially at used prices below $400. The Elegia offers a refined bass, clean mids, and precise treble, making them a recommended choice for enthusiasts.

  • Focal Azurys Review: Worth the Price?

    The Focal Azurys, a closed-back headphone launched in 2024, offers good sound quality and build but is considered overpriced at its MSRP of $599. As a used option at $335, it provides solid performance, especially compared to budget alternatives. However, it lacks the superiority of higher-end Focal models like the Elegia.

  • iFi Uno: Great Mobile Desktop DAC/Amp for Beginners

    iFi Uno: Great Mobile Desktop DAC/Amp for Beginners

    The iFi Uno is a USB-C powered DAC/amp unit with four EQ modes, suitable for mobile desktop setups. Despite its features, it struggles to compete against better options and has a problematic volume knob that limits fine control. Ideal for beginners, it may not satisfy experienced users seeking quality.