Time for an IEM upgrade. Head-Direct REZERO, RE0, or RE262, or Shure SE530?

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1) Player with higher power - Probably S:Flo2, though I've never tried it myself. Ask Mephistopheles who has actually used RE-262 with S:Flo2 even if for a short while. Do not buy a source immediately. Try it with your iPhone 4 for a while and see how it goes. It performs well with or without an amplifier.

2) E7 is more useful for it's DAC functionality than driving power. E11 has just been released. Expect it to be available soon. But, from whatever I've read thus far, it seems like a very transparent amp with plenty of power.

3) RE-262 is available with two types of terminations. One is the regular TRS terminated one, which was available for a limited time only i.e., bundled with the HM-602 player. The currently available versions are all balanced (TRRS) terminated ones which need an adapter for use with regular sources (meaning almost all of the existing ones). The Head-direct site lists the following adapters - Balanced 4-pin mini (female) to regular mini (male) adapter, Reversed phase (L/R) balanced 4-pin mini (female) to regular mini (male) adapter, which should be bundled with your IEM. I think iPhone uses a TRRS socket to enable mic functionality. I am not sure, may be Faheem can chip in.
 
I wouldn't recommend Sflo2, I felt no changes in SQ with it to be honest. It just has more energy and using it is a pain due to poor UI.

I'd say get yourself something like Fuze and try RE262 with it first, if you aren't satisfied maybe then get yourself an amp (For eg. E11) although I'm quite sure an amp wont make a significant difference, a few subtle differences maybe.

Audio is something which is very relative, this is my opinion and YMMV.

Edit: Didn't know you have an iPhone 4, I'd say you dont require a separate PMP
 
The reason you 'need' an amp for RE-262 has nothing much to do with huge improvements in SQ - IMHO. I quote directly from my review -

With iBasso T3 introduced (No gain switches, Vol: 4-5.5), I did not notice changes in the sound stage, but there's a tightness and slight refinement in the sound. For me, the difference is not huge enough to recommend an amp. But, I will still suggest using an amp as RE-262 is a battery drainer. It nearly drained both my Clip+ within a day. With iBasso T3 surviving about 30 hrs+ and Clip+ going on for a few days, it's a much better situation even with the extra load of an amp.
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That's a little different from what BF1983 and Fah33M say. You can read the first two pages of my 'impressions' thread until this post to get both sides of the argument on amplification.
 
Yeah that could be a reason for an amp for RE262, but improvement in SQ? I don't think so, maybe I'm wrong as I don't have the gear which Fah33m or BF1983 have.
 
@eshantosh

Well I guess I'm gonna use it with my iPhone and Zen for a couple of days and see how it does. Checked out head-fi, they say the iPhone 4 is actually a pretty decent source, and is an obvious improvement to the 3GS. They drive my Shures perfectely. The Clip+ does appeal to me since its small, and sort of has that 'diposable' feel to it. I can take it to the gym with me. Second, I absolutely 'hate' carrying around large things in my pockets. Clip+ with definitely solve that.

@Mephistopheles

Since you've used the RE262s, what are your thoughts about them? Faheem says they aint good for electro/techno/dubstep, but a whole lot of people at Heaf-Fi have different opinions. What is 'your' personal opinion on the cans?

Oh I am still so much in love with the Shures. I know I can fetch some $150 if I sell them but I dont wanna let go. They're superb! I'm actually kind of weary buying Head-Direct gear. Lets hope it works out as great as the internet says it does.

Oh and guys, I know theres more to come from my side, but this forum has been just superb in guiding me. Keep up the good work, and keep em posts coming!
 
Yep! I like the form factor and the SQ of Clip+ very much, that is why I own two of them :D. I find it sufficient for driving most of my IEMs, even the RE-262 to loud levels i.e., a bit more than my listening volume. Battery life is of course, not great, but 12 hours is normal. Some people get 5-8 hours out of it after sometime.

If you ask me, it is 'your' opinion that counts. I think in slightly different terms when it comes to IEMs - they are conductors of the sheet music (recording). Some are downright crazy, some are very articulate, some imaginative and some sticklers for following everything as-is when interpreting the music. I usually don't mind genres when listening to IEMs. I can do fine with CK10 for Trance and the mid-bass heavy Eterna for Prog Rock. It is your expectations and previous experience that counts - If you are used to listening bass details in Techno / Expect great treble details / Used to micro-details in music, perhaps you would be disappointed with RE-262. Give 'em sometime once you get them. I am not sure how the generic design and looks are going to please you though :)
 
Just an update on my RE262s. Turns out it has been out of stock for the past they. They still havent dispatched it. And I remember, before I made the purchase, I asked them about the availability and they said its ready and available and will reach me in 5-7 Business days. I'm really piss#d!!

Such blatant lying. Btw...is Head-Direct is Chinese based company?
 
^Yeah its a Chinese company. BTW if they haven't dispatched your RE262, why not tell them sternly to refund your money as you were previously told that it was in stock?

This way, you could buy a better-suited IEM for yourself. :)
 
JVC FX700 is one of my favorites. But, you have to live with the following -
  • It is V-Shaped. Bass is huge in quantity, Treble like wise (no ear biting spikes though). If you are allergic to either, it's difficult to suggest it.
  • It does not isolate. The best way to use FX700 is in a noise-free environment at low volumes. That way, you'll still be able to get (more than enough) bass and treble.
  • Availability is becoming difficult these days. The only way is to buy through Seyo-Shop or PriceJapan by spending more than $325
  • The cable is very short. It poses no issues for me as I typically use Clip+ in my shirt pocket or clip it in the shirt at that height. It comes with an extension cable though. So, should not be an issue.

Positives: Open sound stage, great portrayal of distance, many instruments sound naturally (or close to reality), Presence across the spectrum, well detailed, good build quality, good looking

Negatives: Vocals are placed a tad behind and may not appeal to somebody who's used to forward vocals. May not satisfy anybody looking for an IEM with great vocal reproduction.
 
Well vocals are really important to me. I was actually considering the JVCs but I feel they have too many quirks to go through for long term ownership.

The type of IEMS I am looking for should all rounded. Great enjoyment factor while listening to music, while not sacrificing deep extended bass, analytical vocals and punchy trebs. In short, I want a 'master of all trades' kind of an IEM, which is the MOST ENJOYABLE to own.

I 'can' consider the Sennheiser IE8, but they're a tad too pricey. Now, I am seriously considering asking Head-Direct to give me a refund, but I need to be sure on my other options before. Any more suggestions?
 
sa_ill said:
The type of IEMS I am looking for should all rounded. Great enjoyment factor while listening to music, while not sacrificing deep extended bass, analytical vocals and punchy trebs. In short, I want a 'master of all trades' kind of an IEM, which is the MOST ENJOYABLE to own
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FX700 fits that 'master of all trades' and Enjoyable bit. On vocals, I'd say it's not the 'focus' of the FX700. It's more like instruments + vocals rather than some others which push the vocals up front. It is far better than a TF10, which has no naturalness in the vocals. SM3, FX700 are two of the IEMs where I stop analyzing signatures and listen to music.

e-Q5, except for the bass extension bit could fit in. It does have analytical, forward vocals with good lushness. The vocals are not as 'in your face' as with SM3 or RE262, but still very forward. It is very well balanced with sparkling treble. It's sound stage lacks depth though. It's not an IEM I consider in the league of FX700, but it technically holds up against almost all IEMs I compared it with.

RE-262 would not have fitted you - no deep bass extension or 'analytical' vocals or great treble. It has smooth, liquid mids, but it's slightly hefty note will not present the micro-details. On the other hand, it's smoothness keeps it free of sibilance (like SE530, I think). e-Q5 will give a very slight hint of sibilance if it's present in the recording.

IE8? Bass-head levels mid-bass. But I don't think it suits your requirement of vocals. May be someone else can chip in. Mids are a little veiled with the Senn.
 
Update on my order:

Head-Direct are really getting on my nerves for their sheer ignorance. Last Friday I asked them to refund my money because they promised that the RE262s are in stock and confirmed that I'll receiving it 7-10 days after I place the order.

Turns out, they still havent been dispatched. And now, they're just ignoring my mails asking about dispatch status and refund. Pathetic!

I somewhat regret my purchase, I hope the RE262s do manage to blow me with their quality. I should have gone for a more recognizable brand!
 
They actually havent replied to my refund request, which I've sent 2 times. Very shoddy indeed.

Anyways, they have another offer on their site, which is, Minibox ES + RE0 at $199.

I'm thinking of paying them $50 extra and chuck the plans of an RE262. Worth it SQ wise?
 
so you'll spend another $50 and to recover your $150. i think you are compromising just to save your invested money! you wanted a portable set-up right and good sound - vocals + bass? i dont think they fit in your requirements!

stick to your refund request and get a reputable(rather more recognizable) brand IEM. peace of mind.
btw did u consider UE TF10? i feel they kinda suit your needs.
 
sa_ill said:
They actually havent replied to my refund request, which I've sent 2 times. Very shoddy indeed.

Anyways, they have another offer on their site, which is, Minibox ES + RE0 at $199.

I'm thinking of paying them $50 extra and chuck the plans of an RE262. Worth it SQ wise?
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You paid them via PayPal? If yes, initiate a refund via PayPal. Send them a stern reply that you want your money back ASAP.
 
Malique said:
so you'll spend another $50 and to recover your $150. i think you are compromising just to save your invested money! you wanted a portable set-up right and good sound - vocals + bass? i dont think they fit in your requirements!

stick to your refund request and get a reputable(rather more recognizable) brand IEM. peace of mind.

btw did u consider UE TF10? i feel they kinda suit your needs.
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Yes I am considering the UE TF10s or the eQ5s. I'm not sure about the sound sig of the eQ5s but I have a general affinity towards Japanese manufacturers. They make good products.

Well yes, obviously, I can only think at this stage if I am refunded my money.

@Mephisopheles Thank you for your suggestion I have dropped a mail to Pay Pal with my receipt number. Lets hope it works. Hey by the way, you own RE262s right? Are you happy with them?
 
^ For electronica , TF10 is pretty much perfect. The thick bass notes ,texture and deep soundstage is very well suited. The mids some complain of being recessed are actually pretty neutral though not warm/smooth or lush like mid-oriented IEMs. Vocals sound a little less realistic compared to RE-262 etc but the treble energy on the TF10 is again one of the best.

One more thing , you might end up spending a lot if only Comply foam tips give you the perfect seal on TF10 . Happens with a lot of TF10 users ;).
 
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