As a tech enthusiast and music lover, I’ve accumulated quite a collection of audio gear over the years. Each purchase was driven by a desire for better sound quality, but as my tastes and needs evolved, so did my setup. Here’s a look at my current audio arsenal and how I use it.

Home Listening Setup

The heart of my home listening experience is the Sennheiser HD660S2 open-back headphones. These are paired with the Fosi Audio SK02 amp, which really brings out the best in these cans (Want to invest in Higher End Dacs as well in future). For gaming and PC audio, I use the Creative SoundBlaster AE5 Plus sound card, which provides excellent audio processing. When I want to fill the room with sound, I turn to the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4. Their unique design and clear sound make them a great choice for both music and movies.

Mobile and Travel Audio

For on-the-go listening, I have a few options:

  1. Shure Aonic 4 with wireless adapter: My go-to for daily commutes and travel.
  2. Shure SE215 (wired): Used with either the FiiO BTR15 or FiiO KA13 for public transport when I can’t carry a bulky case.
  3. RHA MA750: A neck-based option, though I rarely use these now.
  4. Sony WH-1000XM4: Great for active noise cancellation, but I find myself using them less often now that I prefer open-back headphones at home.
  5. Apple AirPods 2: Convenient but rarely used due to the superior sound quality of my other options.

Office and Communication

For work calls, I rely on the Sennheiser Presence 2. At home, I use the Razer Siren V3 Mini for recording and video calls, which provides clear audio input.

Portable Party Sound

The UE Boom 2 remains my go-to portable speaker for parties and outdoor gatherings. Despite newer models being available, I haven’t felt the need to upgrade yet.

The ChiFi Experiment

My journey into the world of Chinese Hi-Fi (ChiFi) began with the KZ ZSN Pro. While not my primary listening device, it opened my eyes to the value available in this market segment.

The Quest for Perfect Sound

My audio journey has led me to explore various options, from high-end headphones to portable DACs and amps. While some purchases may seem redundant now, each was made with the goal of improving my listening experience. Currently, I’m using a combination of Tidal and Plexamp for my music streaming needs. With Plex discontinuing Tidal integration, I’ve been relying more on Tidal directly for high-quality streaming.

Reflections on My Audio Journey

Looking back, I realize that some of my purchases may seem excessive now. However, each item was bought with consideration for my income and needs at the time. The quest for great audio is never-ending, and as technology and my preferences evolve, so does my setup. While not every piece of equipment gets equal use now, each has played a role in shaping my audio preferences and understanding of sound quality. For audiophiles and casual listeners alike, the journey is often as rewarding as the destination.

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MusicTechnology