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ILikeAcid
285
Apr 27, 2019
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First-I see some people listing imperfections, as if they're reviewing $500+ headphones. These are $200 headphones(and what a nice price for a walnut, leather, and metal build). Secondly, these absolutely need to be heard through an external amp if you want to experience their full potential. Aside from these 99 Noirs, I only own 6XXs, and the Noirs provide the more prominent lower frequencies and long-throw bass I was missing in my pop, R&B, and rap. The mids and highs are adequate. I'll use the 6XXs for classical and jazz(or even Pink Floyd)-otherwise, the 99 Noirs are exactly what I wanted and expected.
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Redcap
18
Apr 29, 2019
ILikeAcidReading the other reviews, I didn’t come away with the impression that anyone was “...listing imperfections, as if they’re reviewing $500+ headphones...” In my instance, it certainly wasn’t my intention to hold the $200 Meze headphones to anywhere near the same level of scrutiny that I would apply to a set of $500 cans -which is why I compared them to my $100 Sony MDR7506 headphones, and not my $500 Denon AD-H5000’s. That said, I don’t think $200 headphones should be given an exemption from criticism, either. You noted the necessity of an external amp to realize the full potential of these headphones. Not something I would normally think would make a massive difference for a 30 ohm headphone (as opposed to your 300 ohm 6XX’s), but it is something I am willing to try nonetheless. Thanks for mentioning it. I will report back if I find it has made a difference in sound quality. Perhaps others here can chime in with their experience in using a headphone amp with the Meze, or using an equalizer with it. Great photo; by the way. Cheers
ILikeAcid
285
Apr 29, 2019
RedcapI wasn't really referring to your review; there were at least two earlier ones that contained words like "disappointed" and disappointing". You actually came off rather neutral, pointing out the "more prominent bass" and "fuller sound". I didn't intend to offend or rebuke. In hindsight, I probably shouldn't have felt the need to play champion for the 99s. I realize that reviews are relative, based on individual perception and brand/model repertoire. I'll try to use less judgment in the future; it IS important to respect others opinions. Also, the fact that a good percentage of the cost of these things is obviously dedicated to the build is not lost on me. That said--YES! Absolutely try an amp! I think you'll be more than impressed. I, personally, use the Schiit Magni 3 with a Modi 3 DAC. Thanks--on the photo, btw. Respectfully, Chas.
Redcap
18
Apr 29, 2019
ILikeAcidThanks for the clarification on your post. Much appreciated. I certainly wasn’t offended by your remarks, but merely uncertain if they were being directed at me -hence my reply. I don’t think you should refrain from championing a headphone cause. If you’ve found something you like, it’s natural enough to want to let others know about it. I’m always happy to see people find a headphone they really like, as you and many others here have discovered with the 99 Noir’s. As you aptly stated, reviews and opinions on headphones tend to be to influenced by our individual biases and preferences. There’s certainly no shortage of people who totally disagree with my choice of headphones, and I’m absolutely fine with that... for the most part, lol. Like you said, as long as opinions are respected, and things don’t disintegrate into a name-calling and excrement flinging show ( although that can provide some inherent entertaininment value, lol ), all is good in the headphone universe. Thanks for the recommendation on headphone amps. Mine has gone AWOL, and was never replaced, as my Denons are a mere 25 ohms in impedance, and the Sony not much more. Incidentally, did you experiment with the e.q. settings to dial in a sound that really worked for you ? Cheers
ILikeAcid
285
Apr 29, 2019
RedcapIndeed! My source is just Google Play Music on my Galaxy Note9, from which I play downloaded music through the USB into a DAC and amp. I use the phone's built-in 9-band equalizer and its Dolby Atmos option to tune the sound of my headphones. It makes ALL the difference in the world! With the 99 Noirs, I experience the best sound keeping the lower frequencies rather flat(except for the absolute lowest, single-digit hz--I keep it right between center and high), while increasing the higher frequencies. Those are pretty much the opposite of the 6XX's settings.
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Redcap
18
May 1, 2019
ILikeAcidThanks for taking the time to reply with recommendations on settings. Once I get hold of a headphone amp, I'll do some experimenting, and will report back if it has made a noticeable difference. Cheers
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