There is a reason one uses this instead of that. I have a preference for an open, lush/smooth/warm sound with some definition, texture and soundstage — none to excess. I am not into an analytical or clinical sound. Keep this in mind when going through this list.
Headphone
· Grado Labs RS2e with G-cush
IEM
· Campfire Audio Dorado 2020
DAP
· Switching back to Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 (from Cayin N3 Pro)
·
Updated January 15th, 2021.
BEST HEADPHONES
· Grado Labs RS2e with G-cush**
· Meze Audio 99 Classics***
BEST IEMs
· Overall best: TBD
· BA/DD Hybrid: Campfire Audio Dorado 2020*
· BA only: Campfire Audio Andromeda Special Edition Gold*
· DD only: DITA Audio Project 71**
· Apple AirPods Pro***
Best DAC or DAC/Amp
· Astell & Kern A&norma SR25* | DAP which can stream
· Cayin N3 Pro** | DAP which cannot stream
· Ikko Zerda*** | DAC/Amp
* Money no object
** Right on the money
*** Best value for money