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Stax discussion anyone? [message #24933]

Wed, 25 July 2007 22:01

granch
Messages: 118
Registered: May 2009

Viscount

Except for the one apparent misspoke by L.Alter, I see no mention of what I have always considered the finest headphones ("Ear Speakers) made. I have had a pair with amp for ...too long to remember and have given them to at least two friends. By finest, I mean capable of the best or highest fidelity reproduction over the whole spectrum with a great dynamic range. Yes, they do not isolate you from your environment as well as most others, but if that isn't a problem - say you want to listen to the symphony after Ma has gone to bed, then what could be better. I have used Sennheiser, and several other of the claustrophobic kinds with no comparison.
-Dick

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Re: Stax discussion anyone? [message #24934 is a reply to message #24933]

Thu, 26 July 2007 12:36

Wayne Parham
Messages: 18786
Registered: January 2001

Illuminati (33rd Degree)

I'll have to check those out. How much do they cost?

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Re: Stax discussion anyone? [message #24935 is a reply to message #24934]

Thu, 26 July 2007 13:27

granch
Messages: 118
Registered: May 2009

Viscount

I'm not sure they are even made anymore. They were tightly controlled from Japan and very pricey. I bought bootlegged versions in lower manhattan for around $300-400 as I recall including their special driving amplifier. They also had portable versions - I bought one for my son. This was all long ago. Say, 1970-ish.
They are full range electrostatic earphones -= full meaning below 20 hz. (could be to DC, but I doubt it. ) - Dick

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Re: Stax discussion anyone? [message #24936 is a reply to message #24934]

Thu, 26 July 2007 14:14

granch
Messages: 118
Registered: May 2009

Viscount

Yes, they are still made and ones like mine (Classic model) with solid state amp go for $1170. See www.yamasinc.com They are the only licensed dealer for the US operating out of California. Considering what things cost today, I think that is a low price. They still have tube amps and several other models (styles) including at least one with a back cover to provide room isolation.
-Dick

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Re: Stax discussion anyone? [message #24937 is a reply to message #24936]

Thu, 26 July 2007 21:41

granch
Messages: 118
Registered: May 2009

Viscount

Also several models are available on eBay. They never mention the proprietary problem, though, and several are clearly bootlegged like mine were. I see they now make electret models, etc. As some of the sellers point out, you have to hear them to believe and then you will never want to put another set on your head - unless you are forced at gunpoint. -Dick

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