Currently got the Hifiman HE5XX with me, but I have a Focal Elex and ZMF Eikon back at home. I also have an HD6XX on indefinite loan to a friend.
Currently got the Hifiman HE5XX with me, but I have a Focal Elex and ZMF Eikon back at home. I also have an HD6XX on indefinite loan to a friend.
With the Elex there’s definitely an increase in perceived clarity, the treble response probably just clicks for me. The Eikon is great for having a closed-back option, I just wish it was more comfortable to wear with glasses. It’s pretty neutral to my ears and is really easy to listen to for hours.
I wish I spent more time A/B’ing them to give a better comparison but I haven’t had the time! Though I perceive the Elex/Eikon to be “better”, I am still happy with the HE5XX in my alternate location, it’s exciting enough with its bass, and I don’t itch to get my other cans out.
I haven’t had the HD6XX’s for a while, but I do believe without my curiosity holding me back, I could use those forever.
I probably would be happy using the HE5XX for a long time and not going back to the more expensive ones, so I definitely feel like there are diminishing returns, especially since I’m not striving to reach for the last bit of quality.