Violectric HPA V550 Headphone Amp & Preamp Review + A Detailed Comparison with HPA-V281 Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-09-21 | Violectric HPA V550 Headphone Amp & Preamp Review + A Detailed Comparison with HPA-V281
HiFiMan Edition XV Headphone Review - HiFiMan Keeps Chipping Away At Your Excuses Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-02-13 | Thanks to HiFiMan for sending the Edition XV for review!Buy from Apos Audio (affiliate link): https://apos.audio?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFBuy from Audio46 (affiliate link): audio46.com/products/hifiman-edition-xv-planar-magnetic-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryBuy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/4tsKEGhHiFiMan's product page: store.hifiman.com/index.php/edition-xv.htmlWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All music would have been lossless or hi-rez FLAC or DSD files played locally, or in the case of some FLAC, streamed from Qobuz. In all desktop applications files were played through Roon. In DAP situations, files were played from microSD storage.Chain 1...FiiO M21: youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8kChain 2...FiiO SR11 (youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FA) USB output into Schiit Mimir (youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0) or FiiO Warmer R2R DAC (youtu.be/7gL2kCq2KyY) into both Asgard X (youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4) & Jotunheim 3 (youtu.be/GhLNMFzcr74)Chain 3...Chord 2Go+2Yu streamer (youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI); USB output into Ferrum WANDLA GSE (review coming!) into Ferrum Oor (youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdyk) - both Ferrums powered by Hypsos power supply.Chain 4...Sonore opticalRendu USB into Berkeley Alpha USB DDC (youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA); AES into Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC (youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0s); XLR into LTA Z10e amp (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE)Headphones Compared...Audio Technica ATH-R70xa: youtu.be/9j60CeVTS98HiFiMan Ananda Nano: youtu.be/_54bAqcrDQ0HiFiMan Ananda Unveiled: youtu.be/fd6eJp109BkHiFiMan Edition XS: youtu.be/i624svEG2j4Massdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8Meze 105 AER: youtu.be/zYhjqEjxP4MMeze 105 Silva: youtu.be/vvBdmPxx3_cTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:27 Shameless Self Promotion01:54 Timestamps & Takeaways02:54 About the Edition XV08:28 Sound19:44 Comparison with Edition XS21:40 Comparison with HD6XX/HD65025:42 Comparison with Ananda Nano28:43 Comparison with Ananda Unveiled31:58 Where it fits in a tight market segment33:56 Wrap Up
SMSL AO300 Pro Review - Does It Rise Above Being the Default Option for this Product Type? Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-02-09 | Thanks to Aoshida Audio for sending the AO300 Pro for review!Buy from Aoshida Audio (affiliate link): aoshida-audio.com/products/smsl-ao300-pro?DIST=RUZHHw%3D%3D*use code WaveTheory-AO300PRO for 5% discount at Aoshida!Buy from Aoshida via Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/4qj4ssLWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All music started as digital files in lossless or hi-rez FLAC format or DSD played locally. FLAC files were either played locally or streamed from Qobuz. All files played through Roon.Sources...FiiO SR11 streamer: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FAToslink from NZXT gaming PC (Windows 11)Singxer SU-6 DDC: youtu.be/6dr4T0Sd_NUSpeakers...MartinLogan Motion B10: youtu.be/D47YKAGN8iwMonoprice 12 in 150-watt powered subwooferHeadphones...HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcMassdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8SJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:40 Shameless Self Promotion02:07 About the AO300 Pro06:58 Front Panel08:27 Back Panel09:57 Remote, UI, Bass Management?15:13 USB Implementation Issues20:09 Sound26:56 Compare it to what?31:00 Final Thoughts
FiiO Warmer R2R DAC Review - Showing an R2R DAC Can Warp the Market Too Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-02-06 | Thanks to FiiO for sending the Warmer R2R for review!Buy from Apos Audio (affiliate link): https://apos.audio/products/fiio-warmer-desktop-r2r-tube-buffer-and-dac?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFFiiO Product Page: fiio.com/WARMERR2RWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear…All files started as digital and were either lossless or hi-rez FLAC or DSD played locally through Roon. Flac files were also streamed from Qobuz through Roon.Chain 1…Sonore ultraRendu streamer (youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6Rs) with AudioQuest Forest USB cable into USB input of Warmer R2R. Then Warmer R2R XLR output into LTA Z10e amp (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE) driving either MartinLogan Motion B10 speakers (youtu.be/D47YKAGN8iw) or HiFiMan Susvara Unveiled headphone (youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7s).Chain 2…Windows 11 PC direct USB into Warmer R2R with and without a JDS Labs Synapse USB isolator (youtu.be/m3stCPEl3Q8). Chain 3…FiiO SR11 streamer (youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FA) USB into the Warmer R2R. Then XLR output through a Little Bear XLR MC103 Pro switchbox into a Schiit Jotunheim 3 headphone amp (youtu.be/GhLNMFzcr74), then driving a HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled headphone (youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0Tc). The Jotunheim 3’s single ended preamp output and the single ended output of the Warmer R2R took turns being connected to a Schiit Asgard X headphone amp (youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4). Compared & Mentioned Competing DACs…Black Ice Audio Glass FX: youtu.be/RbAFxkxnWasFiiO K11 R2R: youtu.be/ZRwGHsOvpsgFiiO K13 R2R: youtu.be/mq3tmDPuT90LAiV μDAC: youtu.be/A5sqsO76L8wSchiit Bifrost 2/64: youtu.be/gydqRIWgbrcSchiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0Telefunken Black Diamond 6922 tubes (affiliate link): amzn.to/4qhdJ4yTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:31 Shameless Self Promotion01:59 About Warmer R2R & Use Timestamps...09:40 Build, I/O, Ergonomics11:18 Test Gear in Description!12:01 Sound: Overall Impressions20:10 Sound: NOS vs OS25:35 Which Input Should You Use?28:48 Sound: Balanced vs Single-Ended Outputs31:03 Sound: Tube Rolling34:57 Comparison with K13 R2R37:11 Comparison with Schiit Mimir43:55 Comparison with Schiit BiFrost 2/6445:28 Final Thoughts
LIVESTREAM! 4 Feb - Tips for Social Headphone Listening? Is Mid-Fi Even Worth It? & Your Questions! Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-02-05 | Join me LIVE on 4 February 2026 at 9pm eastern/8c/6p to discuss some tips on how to listen to music through headphones with a friend and some thoughts on whether or not buying "mid-fi" gear is even worth it in early 2026. And of course I answer questions from the chat!Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ESome headphone amps with 2 headphone outputs...Black Ice Audio Aries: youtu.be/J7SrsZBSG8ALake People G111mk2: youtu.be/kSxg9OJWlXQ
New Series for Members Out Now! #wavetheory #shorts #members #audio Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-02-05 | Episode 1 of a new series for Patrons, Members, and Buyers is out now! In the first episode I share some thoughts on how the YouTube platform has impacted audio reviewing and the audio industry at large. Join to watch this and future episodes!Or buy this episode on Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1The Video: youtu.be/jWkd58I9xk4Want to support me? You can make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36E
How Far Have Planar Headphones Come in 15 Years? Audeze LCD-2 Prefazor vs. The 2025 Field Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-02-02 | Let's step back and take a look at the market. How much have planar magnetic headphones improved since the Audeze LCD-2 was released in 2010? At what price point in early 2026 does the performance of new models overtake the performance of the landmark LCD-2?Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy Reviews of the Mentioned Gear...Inflation calculator used: in2013dollars.comChord 2Go + 2Yu: youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqIFerrum WANLDA GSE: youtu.be/Qh1b-XFH7R8Ferrum Oor: youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdykFiiO Jade JT7: youtu.be/96oGMZt5iusFiiO SR11: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FAHiFiMan Ananda Unveiled: youtu.be/fd6eJp109BkHiFiMan Arya Unveiled: youtu.be/g9B2N6YhJBkSchiit Jotunheim 3: youtu.be/GhLNMFzcr74Schiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:38 Shameless Self Promotion02:05 The Questions & The Method07:48 Limitations09:48 Test Gear & More Method13:33 LCD-2 vs Arya Unveiled15:49 LCD-2 vs Ananda Unveiled18:20 LCD-2 vs JT722:06 Analysis & Looking Forward
Effect Audio Code 23 Mk II & Code 24 Mk II Headphone Cables Review - The Cure For The Common Codes? Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-30 | Thanks to Effect Audio for sending the Code Mk IIs for review!Buy from Effect Audio...Code 23Mkii: effectaudio.com/products/code-23-mk-iiCode 24Mkii: effectaudio.com/products/code-24-mk-iiWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy Code 23 & 24 mki review: youtu.be/uVnxa0ViQlcTest Gear...Headphones used...Focal Utopia OG/2020 (1): youtu.be/sqHjnH6EdM4 (2): youtu.be/tb3le-TwGnQHEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcHiFiMan Susvara Unveiled: youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7sSource gear...Ferrum Stack, WANDLA GSE (youtu.be/Qh1b-XFH7R8) into Oor (youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdyk)Sonore opticalRendu USB into Berkeley Alpha USB DDC (youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA); AES into Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC (youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0s); XLR into LTA Z10e amp (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE)Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:14 Shameless Self Promotion01:41 About the Code Mk IIs08:48 Sound13:16 Comparison with Zynsonix Ballista Octet16:57 Wrap Up
HiFiMan HE600 Headphone Review - A Proper Rebirth of a Legend? Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-28 | Thanks to HiFiMan for sending the HE600 for review!Buy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/46dnHN7Buy from Audio46 (affiliate link): audio46.com/products/hifiman-he600-planar-magnetic-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryBuy from Apos Audio (affiliate link): https://apos.audio/products/hifiman-he600-planar-magnetic-headphones?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All music would have been lossless or hi-rez FLAC or DSD files played locally, or in the case of some FLAC, streamed from Qobuz. In all desktop applications files were played through Roon. In DAP situations, files were played from microSD storage.Chain 1...FiiO M21: youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8kChain 2...FiiO SR11 USB output into Schiit Mimir DAC (youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0), then single ended output into Schiit Asgard X with MESH DAC card (youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4)Chain 3...Chord 2Go+2Yu streamer (youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI); USB output into Ferrum WANDLA GSE (review coming!) into Ferrum Oor (youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdyk) - both Ferrums powered by Hypsos power supply.Chain 4...Sonore opticalRendu USB into Berkeley Alpha USB DDC (youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA); AES into Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC (youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0s); XLR into LTA Z10e amp (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE)Compared Headphones...HEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan Ananda Unveiled: youtu.be/fd6eJp109BkHiFiMan HE6seV2: youtu.be/NnwqHJlAjxkTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:29 Shameless Self Promotion01:56 Price Correction, Use Timestamps02:18 About the HE60008:26 Test Gear Listed in Description!08:51 Sound18:42 Comparison to HEDD D124:15 Comparison to Ananda Unveiled26:28 Comparison with HE6?28:06 Final Thoughts
FiiO Jade JT7 Headphone Review - The New Audiophiles First Planar Headphone? Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-26 | Thanks to FiiO for sending the JT7 for review!Buy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/4jSH9o5FiiO's product page: fiio.com/jt7Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All music was digitally sourced starting as lossless or hi-rez FLAC or DSD files. FLAC files could be played locally or streamed from Qobuz. All through Roon, or played locally from microSD cards on a DAP.Chain 1...Samsung Galaxy S22+ smartphone with Meze Dongle (mezeaudio.com/products/alba?srsltid=AfmBOopwUIP8z7CPFz-HGIFE_V_USH-xeMwTdSSpPlZIiDhrAvUvUXJE)Chain 2...FiiO M21 DAP (youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8k)Chain 3...FiiO SR11 streamer (youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FA) USB into the Schiit Mimir DAC (youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0), then single-ended RCA output into Schiit Asgard X (youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4)Chain 4...Sonore opticalRendu streamer USB into Berkeley Alpha USB DDC (youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA), then AES into Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC (youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0s), then XLR balanced into LTA Z10e (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE)My HiFiMan HE400se review: youtu.be/Z9kkz_EsksEWOOPS! I forgot to put my EQ image in at the 19:07 mark. Here it is: drive.google.com/file/d/1C0ddi0D4FZexT6Q6G3I0ZkuSGMr7p_q3/view?usp=sharingTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:26 Shameless Self Promotion01:54 Setup02:38 What Are Planar Magnetic Drivers?06:56 Easy to Drive?09:38 Build, Fit, Comfort11:24 Accessories12:54 Sound16:48 Comparison to HiFiMan HE400se 18:57 Using EQ20:18 Final Thoughts
Fiio Jade JT3 Headphone Review - Dont Buy a Gaming Headset. Buy This Instead. Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-23 | Thanks to Fiio for sending the JT3 for review. This unit was sent directly from Fiio. Fiio asked nothing in return other than a fair and honest evaluation. I have included an affiliate link to where the JT3 can be purchased on Amazon. If you want to buy the JT3 and would like to support my channel, please use that link and I will get a small commission. Typically Fiio gifts their products to reviewers like me. You still have my pledge to be honest and even handed as I can be.Buy from Amazon: amzn.to/3LA4xtXWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy Reviews of Mentioned Gear...Meze Alba: youtu.be/NCV51QAJaVQSMSL R1: youtu.be/snsIbrE79FsTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:17 Shameless Self Promotion01:45 This One's Different03:05 About the JT308:23 Mic Quality Demo10:13 What Should You Plug it Into?13:10 Sound15:51 Brightening the Darkness16:41 Wrap Up
LIVESTREAM (recorded) - Follow Up On Integrating Headphones Into Your Movie Experience - with Jim! Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-22 | Jim from Sound & Vision, Inc. joins me to discuss more options on how to integrate headphones into your movie/TV watching experience. Join us!Apologies for some technical issues (explained further in episode).My YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@wavetheorysoundMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EListen on Your Favorite Audio Streaming Platforms...Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comSome of the products Jim mentions...eARC Balun (affiliate link): amzn.to/3YSNPZUeARC extender: avproglobal.com/products/ac-aex-dearc-kit
Ferrum WANDLA GSE DAC Review - Are the New Features Improvements? Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-19 | Thanks to Ferrum for sending the stack for review!Buy from Audio46 (affiliate link): audio46.com/products/ferrum-wandla-goldensound-edition-fully-balanced-headphone-dac-preamp?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EWANDLA Head-Fi Thread: head-fi.org/threads/ferrum-wandla-impressions-thread.967678My OG WANLDA review: youtu.be/7THgnW7TlqsMy Oor Review 1: youtu.be/Nr3sT6raMPMMy Oor Review 2: youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdykMy Reviews of other mentioned gear...Audma Maestro HPA1: youtu.be/0_KhgEzpM3EDan Clark Audio E3:youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkFocal Utopia (OG) (1): youtu.be/sqHjnH6EdM4 (2): youtu.be/tb3le-TwGnQHiFiMan Goldenwave Prelude: youtu.be/Ev_GFLFKKUMHiFiMan Susvara Unveiled: youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7sViolectric HPA V281: youtu.be/ETFZtNxunKgTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:17 Shameless Self Promotion02:45 About the GSE04:36 Test Gear05:25 Jitter Suppression Analysis13:19 Tube Mode Analysis16:53 Impact+ Analysis25:51 Spatial Enhancement Analysis29:31 Takeaways
HiFiMan Ananda Unveiled Headphone Review - Fangs Flex for the Fiftieth Time? Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-16 | Thanks to HiFiMan for sending the Ananda Unveiled for review!Buy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/4sAZj1zBuy from Apos Audio (affiliate link): https://apos.audio/products/hifiman-ananda-unveiled-planar-magnetic-headphones?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFBuy from Audio46 (affiliate link): audio46.com/products/hifiman-ananda-unveiled-planar-magnetic-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryHiFiMan product page: store.hifiman.com/index.php/ananda-unveiled.htmlWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All music would have been lossless or hi-rez FLAC or DSD files played locally, or in the case of some FLAC, streamed from Qobuz. In all desktop applications files were played through Roon. In DAP situations, files were played from microSD storage.Chain 1...FiiO M21: youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8kChain 2...FiiO SR11 (youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FA) USB output into Fosi Audio ZH3 (review coming!); single ended output into Fosi Audio GR70 (youtu.be/ULdbMXvsd3Y)Chain 3...FiiO SR11 USB output into Schiit Asgard X with MESH DAC card (youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4)Chain 4...Chord 2Go+2Yu streamer (youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI); USB output into Ferrum WANDLA GSE (review coming!) into Ferrum Oor (youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdyk) - both Ferrums powered by Hypsos power supply.Chain 5...Sonore opticalRendu USB into Berkeley Alpha USB DDC (youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA); AES into Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC (youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0s); XLR into LTA Z10e amp (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE)Compared Headphones...HEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan Ananda Nano: youtu.be/_54bAqcrDQ0HiFiMan Arya Unveiled: youtu.be/g9B2N6YhJBkTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:16 Shameless Self Promotion01:42 Setup & About the Ananda Unveiled05:32 Build10:58 Comfort & Fit12:14 Test Gear in Description!12:46 Sound22:56 Comparison to Ananda Nano27:27 Comparison to HEDD D136:33 Comparison to Arya Unveiled39:21 Amp Power Comments40:37 Wrap-Up
How Do You Integrate Hi-Fi Headphones Into Your Movie Watching System? Making Waves w/ WaveTheory 10 Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-14 | If you're not watching on a PC, it can be a challenge to get a high quality audio signal from your movies/TV watching rig into good headphones when you need to watch quietly. Erik, a long time patron, returns to discuss our experiences in using headphones for movie and TV watching. Join us!My YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@wavetheorysoundMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EThe mentioned gear...Monoprice Bluetooth 5 transmitter/receiver (affiliate link): amzn.to/4qLeyTUNVIDIA Shield Pro (affiliate link): amzn.to/45adgK1Monoprice Optical USB Cable (affiliate link): amzn.to/3NbiDT5Singxer UIP-1 USB Isolator shenzhenaudio.com/products/singxer-uip-1-pro-isolate-processor-usb2-0-usb-interfaceiFi iPurifier 3 (affiliate link): amzn.to/3ZgVfpHFiiO K19: youtu.be/mbn87XWmxkAFiiO S15: youtu.be/ZMYyIwyEwTYLake People G111mk2: youtu.be/kSxg9OJWlXQHolo Red: youtu.be/6bpJdhOWyC8Sonore ultraRendu: youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6RsThe intro music in was created by Mia Edenberg & Benjamin Shielden: edenberg-shielden.comAccess Edenberg & Shielden's work on major streaming platforms: hyperfollow.com/edenbergshieldenTimestamps...00:00 Listen on Your Platform of Choice!00:35 Intro & Setup03:24 Additional Context05:14 Bluetooth - Simple, but Lots of Resampling & Latency13:56 Long SPDIF Runs - Convenient. Reliable. Jittery24:59 Break 1 - Become a Channel Member!25:33 USB & HDMI ARC - Cleaner Signal. More Complexity40:18 Apple Airplay - Erik's Current Solution45:20 Break 2 - Buy My Content on Patreon!45:52 WT's Room & Problem to Solve55:35 Managing Multichannel Audio is a Challenge57:01 WT's Attempt at Long Digital Runs01:00:41 Break 3 - Send Me Music!01:01:32 WT's Analog Transmission Solution01:07:27 WT's Multichannel Management Solution - Still a Compromise01:15:47 Final Thoughts01:21:15 Outro
Fosi Audio GR70 Tube Headphone Amp - The New Audiophiles First Tube Amp? Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-12 | Thanks to Fosi Audio for sending the GR70 for review!Buy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/49rmF0YBuy from Fosi Audio: fosiaudio.com/products/gr70-tube-headphone-ampWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All music was digital and either lossless/hi-rez FLAC or DSD played locally, or in the case of FLAC also streamed from Qobuz, all through Roon.Chain 1...FiiO SR11 (youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FA) into Fosi ZH3 (review coming!) into GR70Chain 2... Chord 2Go+2Yu (youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI) into Ferrum WANDLA GSE (review coming!) into Ferrum Oor (youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdyk) then single-ended preout into GR70Chain 3...FiiO SR11 into Schiit Mimir (youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0) into GR70 - GR70's preout also went into Ferrum Oor from this chain.Compared Amp...Apos Gremlin: youtu.be/EgKvSKdKwlEHeadphones Used...HEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan Ananda Unveiled (review coming!)Massdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8PSVane Horizon Tubes...My Review: youtu.be/IpSNBwgNkOEAmazon Link (affiliate link): amzn.to/456tGTHTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:21 Shameless Self Promotion02:48 About the GR7006:19 Build, Features, Specs, Ergonomics15:43 Test Gear & Sound27:51 Comparison with Apos Gremlin
Yamaha YH-C3000 Headphone Review - The Next Big Thing in Closed Back Headphones? & Sound Leak Demo Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-09 | Thanks to Yamaha for sending the YH-C3000 for review!Buy from Audio46 (affiliate link): audio46.com/products/yamaha-yh-c3000-premium-closed-back-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryYamaha product page: usa.yamaha.com/products/audio_visual/headphones/yh-c3000/index.html#product-tabsWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All music was lossless or hi-rez FLAC files played locally or streamed from Qobuz, or DSD files played locally. All through Roon (unless source was a DAP).Chain 1...Sonore opticalRendu Deluxe (review coming) into Berkeley Alpha USB (youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA) into Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC (youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0s) into LTA Z10e amplifier (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE)Chain 2...Chord 2Go+2Yu Streamer/DDC (youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI) into Ferrum WANDLA GSE (review coming!) into Ferrum Oor (youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdyk) - both powered by HypsosChain 3...FiiO M21 DAP playing local FLAC and DSD files (youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8k)Chain 4...FiiO SR11 (youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FA) into Fosi ZH3 dac/amp (review coming!) into Fosi GR70 (review coming!)Compared Headphones...Dan Clark E3: youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkFocal Radiance: youtu.be/rXnmlXCf_bASJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcSound Leak Demo Recording Gear...Austrian Audio OC16 condenser mic (affiliate link): amzn.to/4pw9CBsIK Multimedia iRig Pro audio interface (affiliate link): amzn.to/4pnL51fTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:10 Shameless Self Promotion01:37 Use Timestamps!01:46 Takeaways03:44 About the YH-C300007:56 Cable & Carrying Case11:51 Sound Isolation13:08 Sound Leak Test22:33 Sound36:09 Where Does It Fit in the Market? (comparisons)39:20 Final Thoughts
Should You Buy a Brand New HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled or a Used Original Susvara? Things to consider... Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-06 | Join me as I analyze what you need to consider if you're trying to figure out if you should buy a used original HiFiMan Susvara or a brand new HiFiMan HE1000 UnveiledMy Reviews of Each...HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcSusvara (OG): 1) youtu.be/mZJ78eXWkt0 2) youtu.be/oUrJx173P5MMy Recommended Amps for Susvara: youtu.be/93bifJq6cvQJosh Valour's Arya Unveiled magnets test: youtu.be/zkPAo1fyBzQ?si=3Q9269YuG3nNNplMMy reviews of mentioned test gear...Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC: youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0sBerkeley Alpha USB: youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHALampizator Baltic 3: youtu.be/QShvh2rqETcLTA Z10e: youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhESonore ultraRendu: youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6RsTimestamps...00:00 Intro & Setup01:23 Shameless Self Promotion01:50 See the Links!02:06 Takeaways04:23 Some General Thoughts on Buying Used07:23 The Unveiled Concern...Overblown12:52 Availability15:05 Thoughts on Amplification18:21 Test Gear & Sound27:45 Wrap Up
MartinLogan Motion B10 Bookshelf Speakers Review - Holographic Wonders Reviews By WaveTheory 2026-01-02 | Thanks to a channel patron for donating the Motion B10 to the channel!Buy from Crutchfield: crutchfield.com/S-vyZmYGKR9NU/p_839MB10WNT/MartinLogan-Motion-B10-Walnut.htmlBuy from Best Buy: bestbuy.com/product/martinlogan-motion-b10-2-way-bookshelf-speaker-with-5-5-midbass-driver-each-gloss-black/J3GW8RFHW8Buy from Safe And Sound: safeandsoundhq.com/products/martin-logan-motion-b10-bookshelf-speaker-eachWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...Chain 1...Chord 2Go streamer (youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI) into Chord Hugo 2 DAC (youtu.be/uuSOYjFtcvY) then RCA outputs through SVS SB1000 subwoofers (pair) crossed over at 100 Hz. Then, into Adcom GFA555mkii amp to drive MLs.Chain 2...Sonore ultraRendu streamer (youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6Rs) into LAiV Harmony DAC (youtu.be/GtKG5_ABzAg) into LAiV Harmony HP2A headamp/preamp (youtu.be/PGtdQpNCakk). Balanced outputs of HP2A into LAiV GaNM amps (review coming!) and single-ended outputs into SVS SB1000 subwoofersChain 3 (nearfield setup)...Sonore ultraRendu and Holo Red (youtu.be/6bpJdhOWyC8) streamers into Schiit Gungnir 2 DAC (youtu.be/XzOPRleWXgE) into LTA Z10e integrated amp (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE) with Monoprice 12" 120 watt subwoofer high-level ins/outs crossover ~100Hz.My Elac Uni-Fi UB52 review: youtu.be/I0A3A5PDEOITimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:13 Shameless Self Promotion02:41 About the Motion B1005:15 Test Gear Listed in Description05:49 Sound14:57 Comparison to Elac Uni-Fi UB5219:49 Wrap Up
2025 Audio Year In Review: WaveTheorys Top 10 Favorite Pieces of Audio Gear of the Year Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-31 | Let's take a look back at the year in audio! Join me as I count down my 10 favorite pieces of audio gear I reviewed in 2025 (plus a few honorable mentions)!Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EPart 1: My Picks For Top 10 Most Important Pieces of Gear in 2025: youtu.be/xQu9GwAwlNwMy Reviews of the Mentioned Gear (alphabetical order)Audeze CRBN2: youtu.be/Br1L0UNWML4Audma Maestro HPA1: youtu.be/0_KhgEzpM3EFiio M21: youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8kHedd D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcHiFiMan Susvara Unveiled: youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7s HiFiMan Susvara (OG): 1) youtu.be/mZJ78eXWkt0 2) youtu.be/oUrJx173P5MLAiV Harmony DAC: youtu.be/GtKG5_ABzAgLAiV Harmony uDAC: youtu.be/A5sqsO76L8wLAiV Harmony uDDC: youtu.be/HmycorlO2VoMirph Designs MIRPH-1: youtu.be/b7AvyocYck4RAAL 1995 Immanis: youtu.be/anTb5JlunuASchiit Asgard X: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4Schiit Gungnir 2: youtu.be/XzOPRleWXgESchiit Jotunheim 3: youtu.be/GhLNMFzcr74Schiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0SJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcViolectric HPA V324: youtu.be/v1hDq8L0dIgTimestamps...00:00 Intro00:51 Shameless Self Promotion01:19 The Criteria03:48 Honorable Mentions06:51 1008:25 909:24 810:32 7 11:47 613:12 514:20 416:11 318:27 220:45 124:39 Wrap Up
2025 Audio Year In Review: WaveTheorys Top 10 Most Important Pieces of Audio Gear of the Year Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-29 | Let's take a look back at the year in audio! Join me as I count down the 10 most important pieces of audio gear I reviewed in 2025 (plus a few honorable mentions)!Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy Reviews of the Mentioned Gear (alphabetical order)Apos x Geshelli Merlin: youtu.be/N8uFb1DM-twAudeze CRBN2: youtu.be/Br1L0UNWML4Audma Maestro HPA1: youtu.be/0_KhgEzpM3EFiio K13R2R: youtu.be/mq3tmDPuT90Fiio M21: youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8kHedd D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsLuxsin X9: youtu.be/NcK7lWqPipMRAAL 1995 Immanis: youtu.be/anTb5JlunuASchiit Asgard X: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4Schiit Jotunheim 3: youtu.be/GhLNMFzcr74Schiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0SJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcTimestamps...00:00 Intro00:53 Shameless Self Promotion01:20 The Criteria02:54 Honorable Mentions05:11 1006:36 908:18 810:10 711:55 613:19 515:16 416:45 Top 319:28 Wrap Up
Holo Red Streamer/DDC Review - A Stream of Hype? Does It Live Up to It? Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-26 | The Red was a loan from a patron. Thanks!Buy from Kitsune Audio: kitsunehifi.com/products/holoaudio-red-ddc-network-streamer-1Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ECheap Power Supply for ultraRendu (affiliate link): amzn.to/3Y78QzBMy Holo Audio reviews...Bliss KTE amp: youtu.be/-Mt2B66CFTIMay KTE DAC: youtu.be/-c2MZSDFigMSpring 2 DAC: head-fi.org/showcase/holo-audio-spring-ii.25162/reviews#review-25873Test Gear...I used Red as a Roon endpoint for streaming tests. All music files were lossless or hi-rez flac files played locally or streamed from Qobuz, or DSD files played locally, all through Roon.Chain 1...Red into Weiss Engineering INT-204 (youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA) then AES into Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC (youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0s) into LTA Z10e (youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhE) driving HiFiMan Susvara Unveiled (youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7s).Chain 2...Red USB out into Schiit Gungnir 2 DAC (youtu.be/XzOPRleWXgE) into LTA Z10e and then into either Susvara Unveiled or MartinLogan Motion B10 speakers (review soon!)DDC Testing Chain...Chord 2Go+2Yu (youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI) USB output into Red then I2S, AES, or coaxial SPDIF into Ferrum WANDLA GSE (review soon!) into Ferrum Oor (youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdyk) - both Ferrums powered by Hypsos power supply - driving HiFiMan Susvara Unveiled.Comparison DDC is Singxer SU-6: youtu.be/6dr4T0Sd_NUMy Sonore ultraRendu review: youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6RsTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:52 Shameless Self Promotion02:20 The Journey09:04 Features & Specs14:33 I/O and Build16:56 Test Gear (in description)17:39 Sound21:51 Comparison with Sonore ultraRendu30:43 The Good The Red Offers32:33 DDC Performance33:56 Wrap Up
What Am I Watching for in the Year of Our Audio 2026? Making Waves with WaveTheory EP09 Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-24 | In a brief looking-forward episode, I muse about what trends in our audio hobby I'll be watching for throughout 2026. Join me!My YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@wavetheorysoundMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EListen on Your Favorite Audio Streaming Platforms...Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comTimestamps...00:00 Intro01:03 Become a member!02:02 Do Closed-Back Headphones Make a Move?04:31 Who Is This Year's Big New Brand?07:28 Episodes on Patreon!07:59 What Product Category Shakes Up the Market?14:55 I Need Music Artists!15:25 2 Wishes for 202618:09 A Goal for the Channel in 2026
An Accounting of Apos x Geshelli Merlin DACs Musical Alchemy Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-22 | Thanks to Apos Audio for sending the Merlin DAC for review!Buy from Apos Audio (affiliate link): https://apos.audio/products/apos-x-geshelli-merlin-akm-desktop-dac?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFBuy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/3KK14srWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All music was digital starting as either a lossless or hi-rez flac file or DSD file played locally, or in the case of flac files also streamed from Qobuz, all through Roon.Chain 1...FiiO SR11 streamer: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FAintoSingxer SU-6 DDC: youtu.be/6dr4T0Sd_NUthen coax spdif into Merlinthen XLR balanced into Apos Gremlin amp: youtu.be/EgKvSKdKwlEorFerrum Oor amp w Hypsos power supply: youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdykChain 2...Asus Zenbook laptopUSB into Merlinsingle ended output intoSchiit Asgard X amp: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4Headphones Used...HEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcDACs compared...FiiO K13R2R: youtu.be/mq3tmDPuT90Schiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0SMSL DO100 Pro: youtu.be/TQFntG1VgV8Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:14 Shameless Self Promotion01:42 About the Merlin06:07 Test Gear Listed in Description06:31 Sound10:10 Comparison with SMSL DO100 Pro12:25 Comparison with Schiit MESH dac card (with SE output analysis)16:34 Comparison with Schiit Mimir19:27 Comparison with FiiO K13R2R21:03 Final Thoughts
From The Realm of the Giants Comes This Impressive Schiit - Schiit Jotunheim 3 Review Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-19 | The Jotunheim 3 was a channel purchase with funds donated by Channel Members/Patrons! Thanks!Buy from Schiit: schiit.com/products/jotunheim-3Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...All critical listening was done using lossless or hi-rez flac files or DSD files played locally through Roon, or in the case of flac files also streamed from Qobuz.Chain 1...Chord 2Go + 2Yu: youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI intoFerrum WANDLA GSE (review pending):Chain 2...Chord 2Go into Chord Hugo 2: 1) youtu.be/95i00hn4-Cs2) youtu.be/uuSOYjFtcvYChain 3...Schiit Mimir DAC: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0Headphones used...Beyerdynamic DT880 600 ohm: youtu.be/iDaUsS2rFrk++DCA E3: youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkFocal Utopia (OG) (1): youtu.be/sqHjnH6EdM4 (2): youtu.be/tb3le-TwGnQHEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcHiFiMan Susvara (1): youtu.be/mZJ78eXWkt0 (2): youtu.be/oUrJx173P5MMassdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8SJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcAmps Compared...Aune S17 Pro EVO: youtu.be/kKBhzMKcs38Lake People G111mk2: youtu.be/kSxg9OJWlXQSchiit Asgard X: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4Schiit Jotunheim 2: head-fi.org/showcase/schiit-jotunheim-2.25159/reviews#review-25865Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:18 Shameless Self Promotion02:45 Use Timestamps!03:14 About Jot 309:04 Potentiometer, Build, Ergonomics15:40 Test Gear in Description!16:00 Burn it In!20:35 Sound!29:38 Comparison to Jotunheim 233:19 Comparison to Asgard X38:48 Comparison to Lake People G111mk241:18 Comparison to Aune S17 Pro EVO45:08 Some Ground Hum (?)48:24 Wrap Up
LIVESTREAM! Follow Up to Episode 8 of Making Waves with WaveTheory - Audiophile Roundtable! Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-18 | Let's have a follow-discussion about my latest podcast episode where real everyday audiophiles share their thoughts on our audio hobby! Listen to the episode on your favorite streaming platform:Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comOr watch on YouTube: youtu.be/eLZAoy-pHZM
Schiit Jotunheim 3 Review is Done! Get Early Access Today! #shorts #wavetheory #schiit #audio Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-17 | To watch early become a channel member on the Early Access tier. Or go to Patreon and buy access for just $5: patreon.com/wavetheory1Watch video here: youtu.be/GhLNMFzcr74
Fiio SP5 Active Monitor Speakers Review - Pretty Good, But One Major Flaw Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-15 | Thanks to Fiio for sending the SP5 for review!Buy from Fiio: fiio.com/SP5Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...Preamps...Aune N7: youtu.be/CLWbuHTPhLAFerrum Oor: youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdykSchiit Jotunheim 3 (review pending)DACs...Ferrum WANLDA GSEMatrix TS-1: youtu.be/M9pQKqNGNTcTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:32 Shameless Self Promotion02:00 About the SP504:16 Build05:58 Connectivity & Use Options10:46 Cabling15:07 Test Gear & Sound29:53 Final Thoughts
Zynsonix CBOX-2 Speaker-Amp-to-Headphone-Transformer & Ballista Octet Headphone Cable Reviews Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-13 | Thanks to Bryan at Zynsonix for the discount on the CBOX-2 and for sending the Ballista Octet for review!Links (not affiliate):CBOX-2: zynsonix.com/Speaker-Amp-to-Headphone-Converter-Box-Bypass_p_54.htmlBallista Octet: zynsonix.com/Ballista-Octet-HiFiMan-Susvara-Headphone-Cable_p_63.htmlWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy CBOX-2 Config:Speaker Connections: Cardas ACBP plus second set ACBP with speaker output switch Chassis Color: BlackHeadphone outputs: Dual 4-pin XLR (low and high sensitivity) - no bypass switch neededSpeaker Amplifier Wattage - Up to 200WUpgrade Internal Wire: KimberAmps Used...LAiV GaNM (review coming)LTA Z10e: youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhESMSL PA-X: youtu.be/FRxF2ZltnD0Heapdhones Used...Focal Utopia (OG) (1): youtu.be/sqHjnH6EdM4 (2): youtu.be/tb3le-TwGnQHiFiMan Isvarna: youtu.be/CCKUrlKbSYQHiFiMan Susvara (1): youtu.be/mZJ78eXWkt0 (2): youtu.be/oUrJx173P5MFocal Utopia (OG):SJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:57 Shameless Self Promotion02:23 About CBOX-205:11 CBOX-2 Build08:16 CBOX-2 Sound13:30 Ballista Octet Build18:30 Ballista Octet Sound20:48 Ballista Octet vs Lavricables Grand Silver25:12 Ballista Octet vs Danacable Lazuli Rhapsody29:19 Final Thoughts
What Do Real Audiophiles Think About Topics in Our Hobby? Making Waves with WaveTheory EP 08 Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-10 | I am joined by 4 of my patrons/channel members to discuss some audio topics: what got them into this hobby? How did they figure out what they like? What are some mistakes they made and what did they learn from them? What do they like and dislike about the hobby? Join us!My YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@wavetheorysoundMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EListen on Your Favorite Audio Streaming Platforms...Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comThe featured music artist is David Allan. Check out his work here:1) General landing page - artists.landr.com/0558552619842) open.spotify.com/artist/7kbE5KgmYDuz7hMCD3cPhq?si=jC9FQedGRQqIUNc8uYxB3Q3) music.apple.com/us/artist/david-allan/14411395104) music.youtube.com/channel/UCwrq1aVRcoQ_5OngbAgnlcg5) open.qobuz.com/album/vyiks8pb4ekpc?lf=82bc0b9832dd9a2d91bbdce7176a0de36) music.amazon.com/artists/B001AUWTHG/david-allan7) tidal.com/album/3747248868) youtube.com/@davidallanmusicThe intro music in was created by Mia Edenberg & Benjamin Shielden: edenberg-shielden.comAccess Edenberg & Shielden's work on major streaming platforms: hyperfollow.com/edenbergshieldenTimestamps...00:00 Intro & Music Artist Info02:38 Intro Music: All Behind by Edenber & Shielden02:56 The Panel & How They Got Into This Hobby15:07 What Mistakes Have You Made & What Did You Learn From Them?26:01 Break 1: Become a Channel Member!26:33 Music Clip: Sandstorm by David Allan27:17 How Did You Figure Out What You Like?44:30 Break 2: Episodes for Sale on Patreon!45:01 Music Clip: Neuromancer by David Allan45:53 Is Endgame Even Real?53:26 What's Your Favorite Thing About the Hobby?58:02 What's Your Least Favorite Thing About the Hobby?01:06:15 Break 3: Music Artists Reach Out to Me!01:07:36 Music Clip: man from Machine by David Allan01:12:58 Outro01:14:18 Demo Track: Rain Dance by David Allan
HiFi For All Dahlia Headphone Review - Is This Headphone The Real Lord of the Rings? Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-08 | Thanks to HFA for providing the Dahlia for review!Buy from HFA: hififorall.com/products/hfa-dahlia-headphoneWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EHFA's About Dahlia Videos...youtu.be/Z4fDh7-D5tw?list=PL5VFQB0PKI4b0Ot9h5SnvdWk-pAOr2OXOTest Gear...Chain 1...Fiio M21: youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8kChain 2...Schiit Asgard X with MESH DAC Card: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4Chain 3...Holo Red intoBerkeley Alpha USB + Alpha S2 DAC: youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0sintoLTA Z10e: youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhEHEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsMirph-1: youtu.be/b7AvyocYck4Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:33 Shameless Self Promotion02:01 More Disclaimers03:24 About the Dahlia06:36 Build & Resonator Rings13:46 Accessories16:11 Test Gear In Description!16:36 Sound29:00 Comparisons with HEDD D1 & Mirph-136:13 Final Thoughts
LIVESTREAM! Follow Up to E07 of Making Waves with WaveTheory: Nature & State of TOTL Headphones Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-04 | This is a follow up discussion to episode 7 of my podcast. We'll be doing Q&A about the nature and state of the TOTL headphone market. Join us!Listen to the episode on your favorite streaming platform:Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comOr watch on YouTube: youtu.be/bLx2fxU4dzg
Final Tonalite TWS IEM Review - Airpods Killer? Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-04 | Thanks to Final Audio for sending the Tonalite for review!Buy from Kickstarter: kickstarter.com/projects/final-audio-usa/final-tonalite-build-your-sound-with-your-digital-selfWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy IEM Reviews...Apos Rock Lobster: youtu.be/gTf8uILhNZMBASN MTPro: youtu.be/NYZRZzrVkWwDUNU Vulkan: youtu.be/TDZXhTBd0-EEffect x Elysian Pilgrim:Noir: youtu.be/cdWMu-r_A_QFiiO FH19: youtu.be/K8BDyurdX5wFinal A5000: youtu.be/LQoD9ZKEbb8Fir M5: youtu.be/TKz6CRPo1cwHiFiMan Svanar: youtu.be/OoGlplrted4HiFiMan Svanar Wireless: youtu.be/FJydJHW9RucKinera Nan-Na 2.0: youtu.be/2ouSYSc7qBsKiwi Ears Quintet: youtu.be/zfJUxpBNL8QKZ DQS: youtu.be/RJJAgApRm_UMangird Tea v1: youtu.be/rARdiIfh_ykMeze Alba: youtu.be/NCV51QAJaVQMoondrop Aria 2: youtu.be/wrC2eiGI_5gMoondrop Blessing 3: youtu.be/0YdnMaQyic8Moondrop Kato: youtu.be/q_6F8Xb_wwgMoondrop Variations: youtu.be/e6tq0-b2k58Rhapsodio Infinity Mk II Plus: youtu.be/QHhPn9KgWP0SANSOUND Sanwear: youtu.be/26qJpdMDSNUTanjchim Kara: youtu.be/FcjARMtNorUTRN Rosefinch: youtu.be/BER_6toANvATruthear Pure: youtu.be/VZy8XA6S3M8Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:11 Shameless Self Promotion02:38 Context04:06 The Personalized Timbre08:25 Accessories11:16 Build & Use16:26 Control App: Using Personalized Timbre18:06 Active Cancelling & Ambient Noise Passthrough24:54 Volume Step Optimizer & Graphic EQ27:30 Connection Reliability30:53 Sound38:28 Tip & Placement Sensitivity40:59 Final Thoughts
JDS Labs Synapse USB Isolator Review - Scrub Your Bits Clean, On the Cheap! Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-12-01 | The Synapse was a channel purchase.Buy from JDS Labs: jdslabs.com/product/synapse/?srsltid=AfmBOooMnBEK0hhTHBJ_JgADVO8Cl4FdNIuCTyc_vgurbzJ-7_ihlhXBWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy reviews of mentioned gear...FiiO SR11: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FAFiiO K13 R2R: youtu.be/mq3tmDPuT90Schiit Asgard X w/ MESH DAC Card: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4Schiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0Singxer SU-6: youtu.be/6dr4T0Sd_NUSonore ultraRendu: youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6RsTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer00:58 Shameless Self Promotion01:26 Why Might You Want Such a Thing?03:06 About the Synapse03:44 Test Gear & Method05:16 Sound07:50 Synapse or Streamer?11:04 Synapse or DDC?14:00 Final Thoughts
SMSL R1 $70 Gaming Headphone Amplifier Review - Whos it for? & Mic Quality Sound Demos! Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-28 | Thanks to Aoshida Audio for sending the R1 for review!Buy from Aoshida (affiliate link): aoshida-audio.com/products/smsl-r1?DIST=RUZHHw%3D%3DPromo Code: WTReviews-R1Discount: 2%Buy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/4rATiSeWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMicrophones & Interfaces Used/Mentioned...Audio Technica ATR6550x (affiliate link): amzn.to/4iicSy6Austrian Audio OC-16 (affiliate link): amzn.to/3KlOQWyIK Multimedia iRig Pro (affiliate link): amzn.to/4ab0z4HRode Lavalier Go (affiliate link): amzn.to/4rmw5TATimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer...01:48 Shameless Self Promotion02:15 About the R106:52 Mic Quality Demos Setup10:02 Mic Quality Demos13:18 Final Thoughts
A View From the Summit: Nature & State of the TOTL Headphone Market w/ Michael of Directors Garage Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-26 | I am joined by Michael from Director's Garage to discuss the nature and state of the TOTL headphone market! What does TOTL really mean? What do you pay for if you buy in the TOTL? Is it worth it? What are our favorites? All that and more in this episode! Head-Fi thread to post discussion points and questions: head-fi.org/threads/wavetheorys-started-a-podcast.977886The Audio-Only Versions of This Podcast Available On...Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comMy YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@wavetheorysoundMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EDirector's Garage YT Channel: youtube.com/@DirectorsGarageThe music in this episode was created by Mia Edenberg & Benjamin Shielden: edenberg-shielden.comAccess Edenberg & Shielden's work on major streaming platforms: hyperfollow.com/edenbergshieldenTimestamps...00:00 Intro02:09 What does TOTL really mean?12:31 What are you really paying for?25:03 Break 125:35 Is it worth it?33:29 Diminishing returns?49:58 Break 250:28 Role of source gear01:08:26 Break 301:09:15 Our personal favorites01:24:55 Outro & music selection
Aune N7 Headphone Amp & Preamp Review - A Balanced Asgard X Competitor? Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-25 | Thanks to Aune for sending the N7 for review!Buy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/48vf0zhAune's N7 Webpage: aune-store.com/en/n-series/aune-n7/aune-n7-class-a-headphone-amplifier_110119_1273Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy Aune S17 Pro amps reviews...Pro: youtu.be/c1tmYoNDFDUPro EVO: youtu.be/kKBhzMKcs38My Schiit Asgard X review: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4My FiiO K13R2R review: youtu.be/mq3tmDPuT90Test Gear...All digital music files that are lossless or hi-rez flac or dsd files played locally, or in the case of flac files possibly streamed from Qobuz, all through Roon.Chain 1...Fiio SR11: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FA-into-Schiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0Chain 2...Matrix TS-1: youtu.be/M9pQKqNGNTcHeadphones used...Beyerdynamic DT880 (600 ohm): youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcHEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcHiFiMan Susvara (1): youtu.be/mZJ78eXWkt0 (2): youtu.be/oUrJx173P5MMassdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8SJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:27 Shameless Self Promotion01:54 Use Timestamps!02:14 About the N707:41 UI & Output Switching09:19 Thermal Management11:32 Sound20:41 Comparison with S17 Pro EVO25:44 Comparison with Schiit Asgard X32:38 Final Thoughts
Zikman Tiber IEM Cable - Earning its Tiber Stripes in the Hi-End IEM Cable Game? Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-24 | Thanks to Zikman for sending the Tiber for review!Buy from Zikman: https://zikman.audio/product/zikman-tiber/Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy reviews of mentioned source gear...Chord Hugo 2: youtu.be/uuSOYjFtcvYFiiO M21: youtu.be/22bHTUv3G8kMy reviews of IEM cables...Effect Audio Signature Series II: youtu.be/AF0CEh1A1SUEffect Audio AxC: youtu.be/r-A8Wk7oERsMy IEM Reviews...Apos Rock Lobster: youtu.be/gTf8uILhNZMBASN MTPro: youtu.be/NYZRZzrVkWwDUNU Vulkan: youtu.be/TDZXhTBd0-EEffect x Elysian Pilgrim:Noir: youtu.be/cdWMu-r_A_QFiiO FH19: youtu.be/K8BDyurdX5wFinal A5000: youtu.be/LQoD9ZKEbb8Fir M5: youtu.be/TKz6CRPo1cwHiFiMan Svanar: youtu.be/OoGlplrted4Kinera Nan-Na 2.0: youtu.be/2ouSYSc7qBsKiwi Ears Quintet: youtu.be/zfJUxpBNL8QKZ DQS: youtu.be/RJJAgApRm_UMangird Tea v1: youtu.be/rARdiIfh_ykMeze Alba: youtu.be/NCV51QAJaVQMoondrop Aria 2: youtu.be/wrC2eiGI_5gMoondrop Blessing 3: youtu.be/0YdnMaQyic8Moondrop Kato: youtu.be/q_6F8Xb_wwgMoondrop Variations: youtu.be/e6tq0-b2k58Rhapsodio Infinity Mk II Plus: youtu.be/QHhPn9KgWP0Tanjchim Kara: youtu.be/FcjARMtNorUTRN Rosefinch: youtu.be/BER_6toANvATruthear Pure: youtu.be/VZy8XA6S3M8Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:03 Shameless Self Promotion01:30 About the Tiber04:03 The Challenge I Gave Zikman05:48 Test Gear & Sound07:40 Comparison to Effect Audio Eros S II10:13 Final Thoughts
Ultra-Violectrics! HPA V324 vs HPA V281 Headphone Amps Battle Royal! Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-22 | Let's do a deep dive comparison between two awesome Violectric headphone amps: HPA V281 and HPA V324. Which one is right for you and why?Buy each from Power Holdings, Inc:V324: power-holdings-inc.com/Violectric-HPA-V324-Reference-Headphone-Amplifier-p768232346?srsltid=AfmBOooQm_ZCU-fas15JVGtSYJ-lYR3dZsUtLIqNcqjmciHx15qlcdLUV281 LE: power-holdings-inc.com/Violectric-HPA-V281-Reissue-Headphone-Amp-p585718067Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy Other Lake People Reviews...Lake People G111: youtu.be/InnJfsLdIhULake People G111mk2: youtu.be/kSxg9OJWlXQViolectric DHA V226: youtu.be/P2lkeFHkmlAViolectric HPA V222: youtu.be/tfwY5KjWcV0Violectric HPA V281: youtu.be/ETFZtNxunKgViolectric HPA V550: youtu.be/0GtvA7q6IcMNiimbus HPA US5 Pro: youtu.be/lLlPJyvGSIQTest GearAll music started as lossless or hi-rez FLAC or DSD files played through Roon. FLAC files could also have been streamed from Qobuz.Test Chain...Chord 2Go: youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI-into-Chord Hugo 2: youtu.be/uuSOYjFtcvYHeadphones Used...Audio Technica ATH-ADX7000: youtu.be/d7yjTA584goBeyerdynamic DT880: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcDan Clark E3: youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkFocal Radiance: youtu.be/rXnmlXCf_bAFocal Utopia OG/2020 (1): youtu.be/sqHjnH6EdM4 (2): youtu.be/tb3le-TwGnQHEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcHiFiMan Susvara (1): youtu.be/mZJ78eXWkt0 (2): youtu.be/oUrJx173P5MHiFiMan Susvara Unveiled: youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7sMassdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8MIRPH Mirph-1: youtu.be/b7AvyocYck4SJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcZMF Ori 3.0: youtu.be/FnO02oLlHAwTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:08 Shameless Self Promotion01:36 Setup02:30 Features Analysis04:40 Volume Control Analysis07:25 I/O Configurations & Footprints08:08 Headphone Types Discussion13:09 Comparison with Difficult-Driving Planars15:36 Comparison with Hi-Z Dynamics17:34 Analysis of First 2 Headphone Categories19:38 Modhouse Tungsten? 20:48 Comparison with Easy-Driving Planars22:55 Comparison with Lo-Z Dynamics26:40 Takeaways & Recommendations
Violectric HPA V324 Headphone Amp Review - Great VU! Great Sound? Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-21 | Thanks to Power Holdings, Inc. for sending the V324 for review!Buy from Power Holdings, Inc. power-holdings-inc.com/Violectric-HPA-V324-Reference-Headphone-Amplifier-p768232346?srsltid=AfmBOooQm_ZCU-fas15JVGtSYJ-lYR3dZsUtLIqNcqjmciHx15qlcdLUWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy Other Lake People Reviews...Lake People G111: youtu.be/InnJfsLdIhULake People G111mk2: youtu.be/kSxg9OJWlXQViolectric DHA V226: youtu.be/P2lkeFHkmlAViolectric HPA V222: youtu.be/tfwY5KjWcV0Violectric HPA V281: youtu.be/ETFZtNxunKgViolectric HPA V550: youtu.be/0GtvA7q6IcMNiimbus HPA US5 Pro: youtu.be/lLlPJyvGSIQTest GearAll music started as lossless or hi-rez FLAC or DSD files played through Roon. FLAC files could also have been streamed from Qobuz.Chain 1...Sonore opticalRendu-into-Lampizator Baltic 3: DAC: youtu.be/QShvh2rqETcChain 2...Sonore ultraRendu: youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6Rs-into-Weiss INT-204: youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA-or-Berkeley Alpha USB-into-Berkeley Alpha S2 DAC: youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0sChain 3...Chord 2Go: youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI-into-Chord Hugo 2: youtu.be/uuSOYjFtcvYHeadphones Used...Audio Technica ATH-ADX7000: youtu.be/d7yjTA584goBeyerdynamic DT880: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcDan Clark E3: youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkFocal Radiance: youtu.be/rXnmlXCf_bAFocal Utopia OG/2020 (1): youtu.be/sqHjnH6EdM4 (2): youtu.be/tb3le-TwGnQHEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsHiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcHiFiMan Susvara (1): youtu.be/mZJ78eXWkt0 (2): youtu.be/oUrJx173P5MHiFiMan Susvara Unveiled: youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7sMassdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8MIRPH Mirph-1: youtu.be/b7AvyocYck4SJY Horizon Closed Carbon: youtu.be/8UOM3K_VLDcZMF Ori 3.0: youtu.be/FnO02oLlHAwCompared Amps...Ferrum Oor (1): youtu.be/Nr3sT6raMPM (2): youtu.be/xUsRyoBPdykHiFiMan Goldenwave Prelude: youtu.be/Ev_GFLFKKUMTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:53 Shameless Self Promotion02:20 About the V32409:30 Unit Tour15:34 Sound26:48 Comparison to Prelude30:20 Comparison to Oor33:05 Wrap Up
LIVESTREAM! Follow-Up Discussion to EP06 of Making Waves with WaveTheory! Navigating Conflicts Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-20 | Join me LIVE for a follow-up discussion of the most recent episode of my podcast Making Waves with WaveTheory about how viewers can navigate conflicts of interest in audio reviews! 19 November at 9pm eastern, 8pm central, 6pm pacific.Listen to the episode on your favorite streaming platforms...Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comOr watch on YT: youtu.be/2CWBBPcMkDwMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36E
First Impressions Available Now for Jotunheim 3 & Ananda Unveiled -Audivina LE - Edition XV - HE600! Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-20 | Become a member to watch or buy access on Patreon for just $3 apiece!Patreon Link: patreon.com/wavetheory1Schiit Jotunheim 3 Video: youtu.be/1RYV8DbkzWIHiFiMans Video: youtu.be/HwjZ2nYOkpMBuy Jot 3: schiit.com/products/jotunheim-3Buy HiFiMans (all links are affiliate links)...Ananda Unveiled...Amazon: amzn.to/3XDrVsNApos: https://apos.audio/products/hifiman-ananda-unveiled-planar-magnetic-headphones?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFAudio46: audio46.com/products/hifiman-ananda-unveiled-planar-magnetic-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryAudivina LE...Amazon: amzn.to/47OdfNwApos: https://apos.audio/products/hifiman-audivina-le-studio-headphones?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFAudio46: audio46.com/products/hifiman-audivina-le-planar-magnetic-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryEdition XV...Amazon: amzn.to/4i6kuDUApos: https://apos.audio/products/hifiman-edition-xv-planar-magnetic-headphones?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFAudio46: audio46.com/products/hifiman-edition-xv-planar-magnetic-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryHE600...Amazon: amzn.to/4pkzi4eApos: https://apos.audio/products/hifiman-he600-planar-magnetic-headphones?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFAudio46: audio46.com/products/hifiman-he600-planar-magnetic-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheory
ZMF Ori 3.0 Review - Technical Jekyll. Tonal Hyde. Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-17 | Thanks to ZMF for sending the Ori 3.0 for review!Buy from ZMF: shop.zmfheadphones.com/collections/stock-headphones/products/ori-3-0Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EEdenberg & Sheilden's Music...edenberg-shielden.comhyperfollow.com/edenbergshielden1812 Overture by Erich Kunzel & Cincinnati Popsyoutu.be/17jQTXQKS7M?si=e_E3kiXIYxP2_e_NTest Gear...All music started as lossless or hi-res FLAC files or DSD files played locally through Roon, some FLAC files streamed from QobuzChain 1:Sonore ultraRendu: youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6RsintoBerkeley Alpha USB DDC (shows up in here: youtu.be/94AvDeeRjHA)intoBerkeley Alpha S2 DAC: youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0sintoLTA Z10e amp: youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhEorViolectric HPA V324 (review coming soon!)Chain 2:Sonore opticalRenduintoLampizator Baltic 3 DAC: youtu.be/QShvh2rqETcintoZ10e or V324 againChain 3:FiiO SR11: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FAintoAune S9c Pro: youtu.be/9kZ1NmxBpgsChain 4:Chord 2Go + 2Yu: youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqIintoSchiit Gungnir 2: youtu.be/XzOPRleWXgEintoBurson Soloist Voyager (review coming soon!)Sound Leak Test ChainFiio SR11Schiit Asgard X: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4My Other ZMF Reviews...Auteur (OG): youtu.be/x6BVkSdrykQAtrium: youtu.be/i-46mtoORA4Atrium Closed: youtu.be/HUmUbXaJZ5MBokeh Closed: youtu.be/nLKKWZ3lvqECaldera Closed: youtu.be/OGuZD_zeNcQCaldera Open: youtu.be/pudQTXVzI9cEikon: head-fi.org/showcase/zmfheadphones-eikon.22014/reviews#review-25883Homage: youtu.be/lwiqyGtGvK0Verite Closed (Epoxy Stabilized): youtu.be/p8whn4hvjO4Verite Closed (African Blackwood): youtu.be/zjS7RDI8z94Verite Open: youtu.be/iF9KQcx0D6gMy Reviews of the Other Headphones Named...Dan Clark E3: youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkFocal Radiance: youtu.be/rXnmlXCf_bAHiFiMan Isvarna: youtu.be/CCKUrlKbSYQTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:03 Shameless Self Promotion02:30 Use Timestamps!02:48 About the Ori 3.008:00 Pads, Meshes, and Cables Oh My!12:10 Yeah, They're Gorgeous13:24 Sound Leak Test!19:45 What Does Closed-Back Really Mean?20:45 Test Gear Listed in Description21:09 Sound (Tonality)30:33 Sound (Technicals)38:59 Comparison to Focal Radiance40:11 Comparison to Dan Clark E342:11 Comparison to HiFiMan Isvarna43:35 Comparison to Calderas44:37 Wrap Up
FiiO K13 R2R - DAC/Head Amp/Preamp/EQ Review - All for $320 And It Sounds Great! Whats the But? Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-14 | Thanks to Fiio for sending the K13 R2R for review!Buy from Apos Audio (affiliate link): https://apos.audio/products/fiio-k13-r2r-desktop-dac-amp?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFBuy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/3JZf017Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36ETest Gear...FiiO K11 R2R: youtu.be/ZRwGHsOvpsgChain 1...FiiO SR11: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FAHEDD D1: youtu.be/VEMQwuZDVBsChain 2...Burson Soloist Voyager (review coming)HiFiMan Susvara Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcChain 3...Chord 2Go + 2Yu: youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqI-the Chord was connected to both DACs via coax, since the 2yu has 2 coax outputs. Schiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0Burson (again)Susvara Unveiled (again)Chain 4...Schiit Asgard X: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4Dan Clark E3: youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkMIRPH Designs Mirph-1: youtu.be/b7AvyocYck4Massdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer01:23 Shameless Self Promotion01:50 About the K13R2R05:55 Build, I/O, Operation, Remote Control14:32 Test Gear - See Description15:01 Sound - As AIO19:23 Sound - DAC...and the "But"25:15 Sound - With PL50 LPS26:43 Sound - The DAC & Amp Complement28:33 DAC Comparison with Schiit Mimir38:30 AIO Comparison with Schiit Asgard X w/ MESH card41:21 Conclusions
Make It Make Sense! Navigating Conflicts of Interest in Audio Reviews - with Lachlan Fennen! Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-12 | Lachlan Fennen of Passion for Sound joins me to finish our conversation about conflicts of interest in audio reviews and discuss tips for how the audience can manage them. Head-Fi thread to post discussion points and questions: head-fi.org/threads/wavetheorys-started-a-podcast.977886The Audio-Only Versions of This Podcast Available On...Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comMy YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@wavetheorysoundMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EPassion for Sound YT Channel: youtube.com/@PassionforSoundThe music in this episode was created by Mia Edenberg & Benjamin Shielden: edenberg-shielden.comAccess Edenberg & Shielden's work on major streaming platforms: hyperfollow.com/edenbergshielden
Spotify Lossless...Some Quirks, But How Does it Sound? Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-11 | I give my take on whether Spotify's entry into lossless streaming is worth it for people serious about audio.Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EBerkeley Alpha S2: youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0sDan Clark E3: youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkHiFiMan Susvara Unveiled: youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7sLTA Z10e: youtu.be/Bft6HUsYDhETimestamps...00:00 Intro00:22 Shameless Self Promotion00:49 Disclaimers02:57 About Spotify Lossless05:28 No Bit-Perfect About10:49 Downloads Preferred For Better or Worse12:45 Let's Be Nerds!13:30 Sound21:26 Final Thoughts
LIVESTREAM - Follow Up Discussion to Podcast Episode About Narratives in Audio! - Weds 11/5 9e/8c/6p Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-06 | Join me for a follow up discussion of Episode 05 of Making Waves with WaveTheory! Haven't heard the episode? Listen on your favorite streaming platform:Listen to the Audio-Only Version on Major Streaming Platforms ...Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comOr watch on YouTube: youtu.be/SMi-okd9LLoMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EA Summary of Sean Olive's Work: seanolive.blogspot.com/2022Papers about the audibility of cable differences: drive.google.com/drive/folders/10sJkmfLmhSpMSTr0qhGOe747p9j83ryu?usp=sharingInfo on Dr. Milind Kunchur - sites.google.com/view/kunchur/homebio
HEDDs First Dynamic Driver Headphone Has Space-Age Driver Tech! HEDD D1 Headphone Review Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-06 | Thanks to HEDD for sending the D1 for review!D1 webpage: https://hedd.audio/products/heddphone-d1Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EBerkeley Alpha S2: youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0sChord Hugo 2: youtu.be/uuSOYjFtcvYChord 2Go + 2Yu: youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqIFiiO SR11: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FAFlux Mentor: youtu.be/SG2c-1b7o9IHEDD Heddphone: head-fi.org/showcase/hedd-audio-heddphone.24445/reviews#review-26326HEDD HEDDPhone Two: youtu.be/dr-Dp_JskzQHEDD HEDDPhone Two GT: youtu.be/UW2Jpc6FA4UiBasso DX180: youtu.be/WcwIwukvYmcLampizator Baltic 3: youtu.be/QShvh2rqETcMassdrop + Sennheiser HD6XX: youtu.be/02Um5rMNYS8MIRPH Mirph-1: youtu.be/b7AvyocYck4Schiit Asgard X: youtu.be/n8H8SN3Rdf4Schiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0Sonore ultraRendu: youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6RsViolectric HPA V281: youtu.be/ETFZtNxunKgTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:08 Shameless Self Promotion02:36 Use Timestamps & Takeaways05:09 About the D108:40 Build, Fit, Comfort13:53 Test Gear18:18 Sound29:49 Comparison with Mirph-133:24 Comparison with Senn HD650/6XX43:56 Final Thoughts
FiiO S15 Streamer/DAC/Preamp Review - A Different Sort of HiFi Gear for a Different Sort of Use Case Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-11-03 | Thanks to FiiO for sending the S15 for reivew!Buy from Amazon (affiliate link): amzn.to/4hDMwWYWant to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EMy Reviews of Mentioned Gear...FiiO SR11: youtu.be/YuagbK8p0FALake People G111mk2: youtu.be/kSxg9OJWlXQSchiit Mimir: youtu.be/JnT_3HpAHt0Timestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:17 Shameless Self Promotion02:46 About S15 & User Interface08:55 Remote Control & Firmware Report11:14 I/O & Additional Options15:56 Integrating S15 into a Home Theater System20:22 Test Gear22:36 Sound & Comparison to Schiit Mimir30:14 Final Thoughts
New Flagship Hi-Z Dynamic Driver Headphone! Audio Technica ATH-ADX7000 Headphone Review Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-10-31 | Thanks to Audio Technica for the loan of ATH-ADX7000!Buy From Apos Audio (affiliate link): https://apos.audio/products/audio-technica-adx7000-headphones?sca_ref=1448954.julYPU81dFBuy From Audio46 (affiliate link): audio46.com/products/audio-technica-ath-adx7000-audiophile-open-air-headphones?ref=reviewsbywavetheoryAudio Technica product page: audio-technica.com/en-us/ath-adx7000Want to support the channel? Consider becoming a member! Or you can join my Patreon here:patreon.com/wavetheory1Or make a 1-time donation through PayPal here:paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EAudio Technica Documentary Video: youtu.be/mSdlE7Y1SJQ?si=o1NIXwbynpXvkfrDMy Audio Technica reviews...ATH-R70x Refine: youtu.be/6XD7lzOvjSAATH-ADX3000: youtu.be/OqZL6l-rTGoATH-ADX5000: youtu.be/i3OY7IAeR74ATH-R50x: youtu.be/dVlY0HY5GDoATH-R70x: youtu.be/jkW23UeE6-IATH-R70xa: youtu.be/9j60CeVTS98ATH-WP900: youtu.be/YbiFLnGOe9sNarukami ATH-AWKG: youtu.be/eCWMmZVb5koBerkeley Alpha S2: youtu.be/JY3c4HEyH0sChord Hugo 2: youtu.be/uuSOYjFtcvYChord 2Go + 2Yu: youtu.be/S3O7JNOJIqIDan Clark E3: youtu.be/wzUqM7OJlTkFlux Mentor: youtu.be/SG2c-1b7o9IFocal Utopia (OG) (1): youtu.be/sqHjnH6EdM4 (2): youtu.be/tb3le-TwGnQHEDD HEDDPhone Two: youtu.be/dr-Dp_JskzQHEDD HEDDPhone Two GT: youtu.be/UW2Jpc6FA4UHiFiMan Goldenwave Prelude: youtu.be/Ev_GFLFKKUMHiFiMan HE1000se (1): youtu.be/Hf_0NqehvPg (2): youtu.be/imqRAlflJZEHiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: youtu.be/pSXKdoYg0TcHiFiMan Susvara OG (1): youtu.be/mZJ78eXWkt0 (2): youtu.be/oUrJx173P5MHiFiMan Susvara Unveiled: youtu.be/WI1gnx2tD7sLampizator Baltic 3: youtu.be/QShvh2rqETcModhouse Tungsten: Modhouse Tungsten: youtu.be/mrwZ2OArNTMSonore ultraRendu: youtu.be/qEOOE9rP6RsViolectric HPA V281: youtu.be/ETFZtNxunKgTimestamps...00:00 Intro, Pricing, Disclaimer02:16 Shameless Self Promotion02:43 Use Timestamps!03:22 About the ADX700007:50 Nice Carrying Case08:33 Stock Cabling - Holy Microphonics!12:35 Microphonics Demo14:25 Build, Fit, Comfort15:18 The Process of Pad Rolling Sucks!17:49 Context About Audio Technica22:06 Test Gear24:28 Sound (Velvet Pads)31:00 Sound (Alcantara Pads)33:13 A Music Genre Generalist34:24 Comparisons Setup & ATH-ADX500037:18 Comparison to HiFiMan HE-1000 Unveiled43:29 Comparison to Focal Utopia (OG)46:01 Is $3500 Fair? And Wrap Up
Your Narratives Are Wrong! Making Waves with WaveTheory EP 05 - With GoldenSound! Reviews By WaveTheory 2025-10-29 | I'm joined by Cameron Oatley, AKA GoldenSound to analyze narratives in the audiophile hobby. Is balanced better? Is USB really that noisy? Is there really a tube sound? And more! Are these narrative right? Wrong? Were they right and are no longer? Were they wrong but are becoming true? Or any combination thereof? Get our takes in this episode!Listen to the Audio-Only Version on Major Streaming Platforms (EP05 available at 4am American Central time on 29 October 2025):Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-waves-with-wavetheory/id1838478407Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4QQkxr6TjNs0FeyjQGqPRdAmazon Music: music.amazon.com/podcasts/9bd0af20-96b2-4381-aaed-51d41b497629/making-waves-with-wavetheoryPodbean: wavetheorysound.podbean.comMy Patreon: patreon.com/wavetheory1Make a 1-Time Donation to Support Me on PayPal: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7N7Z8WRLWQ36EGoldenSound's YT Page: youtube.com/@GoldenSoundGoldenSound's Headphones.com profile: headphones.com/blogs/authors/cameron-oatleyCS Rucker's SoundCloud Page: soundcloud.com/csruckerListen to Retro Reverse album on...Amazon Music: amazon.com/music/player/albums/B0D4PHQNWT?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_Rq3sEKLN07zC5hwVcd7JRRYO5Apple Music: music.apple.com/us/album/retro-reverse-feat-cs-rucker/1747991508Qobuz: open.qobuz.com/album/uk7kt71900xoaSpotify: open.spotify.com/album/1Kvqbh6u5zoK8rKipSpna0?si=r5feJfAcSDSkvW8PjMfFeQTidal: tidal.com/browse/album/364414478?uThe intro track is "All Behind" by Mia Edenberg & Benjamin Shielden: edenberg-shielden.comAccess Edenberg & Shielden's work on major streaming platforms: hyperfollow.com/edenbergshieldenChapters...00:00 Check out the Streaming Options!00:35 Intro, Guest & Featured Artist Info03:28 Audio Issues - Working on It!04:03 Balanced is Better?26:36 USB is Noisy33:02 Break 133:34 Galvanic Isolation Solves Noise Problems37:29 The Tube Sound is Warm & Thick48:39 Hi-Z Headphones Need Tubes59:06 Frequency Response is All That Matters01:04:11 What Does Minimum Phase Mean? We Argue About Cables!01:53:18 Break 301:54:14 You Can't Trust Your Ears!02:09:14 Estats are fast/dry/bass lean02:17:58 Outro & "Time to Shine" By CS Rucker and collaborators
