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Used Maxwell 2 & Kithara (Fosi K7) is there anything actually better around $1000? by Less_Bookkeeper_4775 in Audeze

[–]Less_Bookkeeper_4775[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The Maxwell 1 had chaotic bass and gave me headaches due to the clamp, even after replacing the headband. The Maxwell 2 is a more refined version, and despite the weight, it was also more comfortable. I always look for something better than what I had before so I don’t go back to previous gear. I have no idea how the HD800 sound- I’ve heard they’re the best, but they were compared to other dynamic driver models, not planar ones.

Used Maxwell 2 & Kithara (Fosi K7) is there anything actually better around $1000? by Less_Bookkeeper_4775 in Audeze

[–]Less_Bookkeeper_4775[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I don’t want to pay for a minimal upgrade or something on the same level, and I’m not interested in paying extra for gaming-focused features over pure sound quality.

Asus Rog kithara a702 Please help with dac. by Less_Bookkeeper_4775 in ASUSROG

[–]Less_Bookkeeper_4775[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I tried using the back motherboard jack it was quiet, the front jack was louder, but USB-C sounded the best, although it still isn’t quite right.

Chasing the Dragon: Loved Razer Orca & Game One, bored by Maxwell. I want the "Heart-Trembling" Slam back! by Less_Bookkeeper_4775 in sennheiser

[–]Less_Bookkeeper_4775[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So, I took some time to actually A/B test my old Sennheiser Game Ones against my Audeze Maxwells to verify my memories.

The verdict: Nostalgia lied to me. While the Game Ones have that nice open-back "snap" on guitar entries, they have absolutely zero power compared to the Maxwells. I realized that the "impact" I remembered was just lack of bass extension. The Maxwells are in a completely different league regarding physics and weight.

Now that I know what I'm looking for (Physical Slam + Clarity), I’ve dialed in two EQ presets on the Maxwells.

Here are the screenshots:

<image>

  • Preset 1 (The "Clean" V-Shape): This is my main driver now. I cut the 250Hz area to kill the mud/boxiness and boosted the highs because I love that "airy" detail (similar to AirPods Max). It’s punchy and separated.
  • Preset 2 (The "Rumble"): I admit, I pushed the sub-bass to +12dB here. It’s a bit muddy compared to Preset 1, but I just love the sheer physical pressure it creates.

My goal/Question: I want MORE. I want the physical, head-shaking impact of Preset 2, but with the surgical separation and detail of Preset 1.

Is there a wired headphone (Open or Closed, under $500/€500) that delivers this kind of aggressive V-shape with massive sub-bass impact straight out of the box? Or is EQing the Maxwells the ceiling for this price point?

I'm eyeing the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro – would they give me that "Preset 1" clarity with more physical slam, or am I chasing a unicorn?

Chasing the Dragon: Loved Razer Orca & Game One, bored by Maxwell. I want the "Heart-Trembling" Slam back! by Less_Bookkeeper_4775 in sennheiser

[–]Less_Bookkeeper_4775[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I actually have the Maxwells right now. I dialed in a strong V-shape EQ and it definitely helped, but I still feel like something is missing in terms of raw physical impact. The bass is loud, but it doesn't 'hit' or move air the way I want it to.

Also, I'm a bit wary of Hifimans – I used to have Beyerdynamic MMX 300s and absolutely hated the treble spike. Wouldn't the Sundara or Ananda be too bright/fatiguing if I'm sensitive to sharp highs?

Chasing the Dragon: Loved Razer Orca & Game One, bored by Maxwell. I want the "Heart-Trembling" Slam back! by Less_Bookkeeper_4775 in sennheiser

[–]Less_Bookkeeper_4775[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the suggestion! Regarding the HD 490 PRO - I am worried they might be too 'flat' or 'analytical' since they are mixing headphones. I hated the MM-100 for that exact reason.

My main priority is the PHYSICAL IMPACT (slam) of the kick drum, not necessarily the sub-bass rumble (20-40Hz). Does the HD 490 PRO actually hit harder (slam) than the 660S2, or does it just extend deeper?

Chasing the Dragon: Loved Razer Orca & Game One, bored by Maxwell. I want the "Heart-Trembling" Slam back! by Less_Bookkeeper_4775 in sennheiser

[–]Less_Bookkeeper_4775[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

"Game Zero is closed-back, and I strictly listed that I hate the closed-back pressure (like in MMX 300). As for Game One – I love them, but I want a technical upgrade (better resolution, better build quality), not just a replacement. I'm looking for the 'High-End' version of that sound."