Reviews by KESM

KESM

100+ Head-Fier
Pros: Transportable class A tube amp that adds warmth to sterile digital sources
Cons: Expensive...but in this case...you get what you pay for.
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I’ve had this amp since April 2018. To my ears...it adds a slightly warm analog sound to all digital signals....all the while emitting a ‘radio days’ amber glow from the tubes...adding visual appeal. It has become my main staple for listening to music via HPs (when I’m stationary). I highly recommend it.

KESM

100+ Head-Fier
Pros: Wide soundstage
Cons: Clamp is a bit tight (but easily adjusted)
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Sound quality: vocals are distinctly forward...slightly bright...which adds some sparkle...may offer fatigue during prolonged listening.

Fitment: readily adjustable headband; will accomodate/fit a large head (I have a 7 7/8 hat size); L & R metal side armature can be modified (bent) to reduce clamp force (individual preference); cups are large/roomy...stiff/firm...will likely wear or become more pliable over time.

Build: durable/flexible; can twist the headband without restraint
Design: beautiful wood cups (lightweight); detailed stitched leather on headband & earcups

Note: these sound unlike anything in my HP stable (HD 6XX, AEON Flow Open, Momentum HD2); similar to listening to room speakers (open lush soundstage); seem to play outside of your head (if that makes sense?)

Scaling: These love power...no distortion when pushed by any of my amps (see list below)...& there seems to be a direct correlation between the dynamic output & power (these scale up remarkably—punchy); but don’t have to be turned up loudly to be heard (full bodied at normal listening levels).

HP Amps:
Mojo/Poly
Gilmore Lite Mk2
WA8 Eclipse (heavenly match)

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