CHANGSTAR: Audiophile Headphone Reviews and Early 90s Style BBS

Lobby => Headphone, IEM, and Other Audio Related Discussion => Topic started by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 02:02:38 AM

Title: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 02:02:38 AM
Any recommendations for an HD800 cable?


Requirements:
While we are at it, are the Amazon warehouse HD800 deals OK? Don't care about scratches. And I figure I can measure them for anomalies.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on March 28, 2014, 02:12:39 AM
I have solid core silver on my balanced cable (made by Ted at Headphone Lounge), but since I sold my BHA-1 like 6 months ago.... I've been using the stock cable with the M-Stage. Can't wait to get back to the balanced cable cause the stock is so bad. Too long, odd lumpy feeling, and since it is so long, it's heavy.

I've never had two cables of the same termination to compare configuration/materials so I don't know if there's actually any difference in sound.

I can send you my balanced cable if you want to try it, Marv. You'd just have to be careful with it, since it's solid core, it can't take bends very well so I try to keep it as straight as possible. Even being careful, I've broken the core twice and had to get it repaired. It has a sleeve on it now, so it should be better protected. It's about 6 foot long.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 02:21:23 AM
I'll pass. I hate the feel the silver solid core.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on March 28, 2014, 02:30:29 AM
I think I sent it with my HD800s when you measured them anyway, but you may not have tried it.

You might contact Ted Allen and see what he will quote you for a cheap copper cable. I got my silver cable for around $100 way back when.

tedallen0220@gmail.com
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Stapsy on March 28, 2014, 02:36:05 AM
I was looking into this for a while.  ZeeDee recommended Ted to me as well.  Looks like he uses a thinnish cable and the prices are pretty good.

I ended up getting a long SPC cable made by a local guy which I quite like using mil-spec cable.  Basically just a slight improvement on stock in clarity.

I also have a copper cable coming in from Trevor at Norne Audio who was recommended to me by Greed.  Trevor is a really nice guy and gave me a smoking deal on a HD800 and HE5 cable.  I will see how the sound goes but it will probably fail on your ridiculous scale.  I like thick cables to impress my friends.  The HE5 cable I got will be quite thin for improved comfort with orthos.  It is SPC but Trevor may be able to do copper for you if you ask. Only $150 for the HE5


One last idea.  I just got some Wywire interconnect which I really like.  Bass response is good and treble is very clear yet non fatiguing compared with the old cables I was using which were an annoying combination of muddy and bright in comparison.  Wywire just released a headphone cable which looks thin and could be a nice match for the HD800.  Quite likely will fail your cheap criteria.

The real problem with "cheap" cables is that the damn HD800 connectors cost like $50.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: hiyu64 on March 28, 2014, 02:49:14 AM
When I had an HD800 I picked up a 8 feet UPOCC cable made by ted from headphone lounge terminated in 4 Pin XLR.  I then got a 1' XLR to SE adapter cable made from cable to finish it off.  Cost me about $200.  The outer sheathing was MDPC-X sleeve.  The good thing is that it never got into a tangle, was flexible, and was very sturdy.  The bad thing is that the inside diameter of the sleeve was much larger than the diameter of the actual cables so there was quite a bit of space between them.  I really wish the cable and the sleeve could have been made to snugly fit together.  Also, when i ran my fingers along the sleeve, I can hear that in the headphone.  An effect kind of like that paper cup and string telephone thing kids used to play around with.     

1. Copper check
2. Flexible check
3. not ridiculous looking check(it looks very sleek with the sleeve)
4. cheap - fairly cheap? depends on what you consider cheap.

Here is an old picture: http://i.imgur.com/nrLUWyC.jpg
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: burnspbesq on March 28, 2014, 02:51:28 AM
I've always used the Cardas cables from HeadRoom (yeah, I funded their buyout of Tyll  :)p13).  Both SE and balanced (2x3-pin).  No complaints.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 03:36:10 AM
Thanks for the suggestions. I like the look of the Ted cables. I've heard the Cardas and I like their sound. Need to think a bit on this. Maybe I'll just buy the $50 connectors from ALO or Moon or ebay.


I'm going for simplicity - like the skinny Mogami microphone cables I currently have for the Abyss. Just super flexible, no shealth over a twisted pair, no sections of the cable which are exposed to reveal the twist, etc.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: azncookiecutter on March 28, 2014, 03:43:26 AM
Forza? http://www.forzaaudioworks.com/en
Super cheap compared to other options, that's for sure. I picked up one for the HD 600s and it's treating me fairly well.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on March 28, 2014, 04:03:05 AM
I hate the sound of Cardas myself, seems like they dull and compress the HD800 a bit too much for my tastes.

I like the true type2 litz copper of my Double Helix peptide but his soldering is awful, doesn't reply to emails and support is slow if not non existent.  Maybe you could just get him to send the base cable and DIY your own.

(http://www.doublehelixcables.com/mse4.jpg)

The problem is the new/current Chinese knock off connectors are crap and the tolerances are all over.  They can wiggle around and bend the pins causing the channel to cut out.  I had to layer enamel on mine to stabilize the connector since double helix support for the crap connector vanished.  So make sure you get good connectors that don't wiggle.  In/out is okay, side to side is bad.  They make new jumbo connectors but not sure how the tolerances are and they seem to possibly add more stress, not sure since i haven't played with them.  Furutech makes some nice ones and the tolerances should be spot on since Japanese.

I like the Norse cable on my HE5 quite a bit.  Looks like he has rebranded to Norne audio:
http://www.norneaudio.com/litzheim/
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 04:07:22 AM
Forza? http://www.forzaaudioworks.com/en
Super cheap compared to other options, that's for sure. I picked up one for the HD 600s and it's treating me fairly well.

Whoa I like those. At a reasonable price. I hope they look as good in real life as they do in the pictures. That's always the problem.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 04:09:17 AM
I like the Norse cable on my HE5 quite a bit.  Looks like he has rebranded to Norne audio:
http://www.norneaudio.com/litzheim/ (http://www.norneaudio.com/litzheim/)

I've tried them, like them, but too viking (bulky) for my tastes. Besides the Norway boat ride at Epcott has me kind of freaked out about vikings.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Greed on March 28, 2014, 04:14:20 AM
All of Trevor's cables are OCC Copper or OCC SPC and have the Litz 2 design. Personally I'd recommend DHC or Norne over anything else I've tried. If you want something super flexible and light, his Skoll line is as light as IEM cables (seriously, I have one on my Paradox right now). You can pick one up for $150 or so.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 04:27:18 AM
Can the Skoll line be made without that wood triangle viking thing? I'm not into viking fashion. Would rather see viking stuff on TV than on myself.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on March 28, 2014, 04:33:43 AM
Ask him to make you a Panda choker made from Rhino horn.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Greed on March 28, 2014, 04:36:40 AM
Yea, he can add heatshrink at the Y. Black, clear, or white - Vikings the show is pretty awesome.\

Or you can get the wood splitter without the branding.

Here's a shitty pic of the cable:

(http://i59.tinypic.com/2udv0ig.jpg)
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on March 28, 2014, 05:00:06 AM
Here's a shitty pic of the cable:
You weren't kidding.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 05:03:41 AM
Ask him to make you a Panda choker made from Rhino horn.

now that would be awesome.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Greed on March 28, 2014, 05:04:20 AM
Here's a shitty pic of the cable:
You weren't kidding.

I know, and I absolutely despise people who post shitty camera pics. I'll take a better pic tomorrow with my camera. Lighting blows in here.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: zerodeefex on March 28, 2014, 06:47:33 AM
Ted will literally do anything, thick or thin, fancy sleeving, etc, and his pricing is nice and affordable.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: olor1n on March 28, 2014, 07:21:34 AM
I've always gravitated towards Steve's Q-Audio cables. Probably because he's a good guy and doesn't peddle pseudo scientific cable bs. He just backs the quality of what he crafts.

Certainly meets most of your requirements Marv. Not sure if it falls under "cheap" though.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: twizzleraddict on March 28, 2014, 08:00:32 AM
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_143HD800R/Sennheiser-HD-800-Factory-Refurbished.html?showAll=N&search=hd800_refurbish&skipvs=T

They sell out often but get restocked once in a while, so you can check on it if you have some patience waiting. $1100 w/free shipping.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Stapsy on March 28, 2014, 10:58:52 AM
I like the Cardas but I agree that it adds in a bit of dullness. I would have gone for the Cardas except I wanted to see if other copper cables would get rid of that.

The Skoll line is silver plated copper based on the website.  Not sure if that matters to you.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: firev1 on March 28, 2014, 01:51:52 PM
Ted ime has nice cables, as for DHC I really like Peter's stuff but you need a sales rep with him to get the support(I have one locally, otherwise comms with him can take quite long). Had a friend's DHC cable on the old HD800 I had and the cable was very light, flexible(cloth sheathed).
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: hiyu64 on March 28, 2014, 02:19:48 PM
If you have the patience, you could always just look for a deal on Head-fi.  Used HD800s with stock cables usually go for 900-1000.  You can also look at packaged deals with aftermarket cables.  Usually they're 1200-1500, but they won't sell at that price.  A lot of  people buying HD800s on HF are noobs looking for the next big thing.  Aftermarket cables are not on their minds.  You can probably haggle the price down quite a bit since most of those packaged deals are not selling too fast.  I've seen packaged deals sell for as low as $1150

Oh, and a lot of the HD800s with aftermarket cables Do not have the original stock cable.  Noobs want to buy it for cheap with the stock cable.  They don't want the extra cost incurred with the aftermarket cable.  I had a hard time selling mine.  If you think about it, there is really no other better place to buy an HD800 + aftermarket cable.  You can get a refurbished HD800 for $1100 from crutchfield or a new one for $1100 from another dealer but I don't remember which dealer you had to talk to.  the aftermarket cable will then cost you 150-200 generally and you'll be at $1250 - $1300.     

Even cheaper: Buy a stock HD800 that with chipped paint from HF for $900-950.  Buy aftermarket cable for $200.  Now you're at $1100-1150.  Sell the stock HD800 cable for $100 and you're down to $1000-1050. The stock HD800 cable has a minimum value of $50 due to the price for the pair of HD800 connectors.  I sold my stock cable for $100, I've seen it being sold for $150 before as well. 
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: dBel84 on March 28, 2014, 03:13:01 PM
Not sure if you have looked at the ALO Green line - they seem simple, non microphonic and not crazy in price.

Redco has some very cool cables of their own, they have a super slim 6 core cable that would probably work well as a headphone cable. I can dig through and find the link if you are interested.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Greed on March 28, 2014, 03:46:36 PM
I've always gravitated towards Steve's Q-Audio cables. Probably because he's a good guy and doesn't peddle pseudo scientific cable bs. He just backs the quality of what he crafts.

Certainly meets most of your requirements Marv. Not sure if it falls under "cheap" though.

Steve has some really nice cables from a comfort and aesthetic stand point, but what I've never understood is why isn't he using the highest purity wire? He already has the Litz geo covered why not use high quality wire to complete the combo? Even if one doesn't believe in the idea of 4N, 5N, 6N, 7N (for example Q Audio is using 2N OFC ETP) etc. it nice to have peace of mind that you aren't being sold the same wire being used at industrial facilities. His cables ask for a premium price, he needs to deliver premium products.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on March 28, 2014, 04:32:09 PM
I've always gravitated towards Steve's Q-Audio cables. Probably because he's a good guy and doesn't peddle pseudo scientific cable bs. He just backs the quality of what he crafts.

Certainly meets most of your requirements Marv. Not sure if it falls under "cheap" though.

Steve has some really nice cables from a comfort and aesthetic stand point, but what I've never understood is why isn't he using the highest purity wire? He already has the Litz geo covered why not use high quality wire to complete the combo? Even if one doesn't believe in the idea of 4N, 5N, 6N, 7N (for example Q Audio is using 2N OFC ETP) etc. it nice to have peace of mind that you aren't being sold the same wire being used at industrial facilities. His cables ask for a premium price, he needs to deliver premium products.

I'm actually with you on that.  But if you know Steve you know why.  In a way you actually pay a premium price for not believing in all those zeroes which seems silly to me.  I think the money he saves on copper goes towards silk these days.  I actually liked the look of some of his older cotton products he no longer carries.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Greed on March 28, 2014, 05:23:50 PM
Excuse the dust..

(http://i61.tinypic.com/2rqlf5s.jpg)

(http://i58.tinypic.com/2mgkshy.jpg)
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 08:18:42 PM
This is turning out to be a good cable thread. I've decided that I'm too cheap. Going to use the thin super flexible Mogami microphone cable (a known quantity for me) I got from Redco, and buy ALO or Moon connectors.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: CEE TEE on March 28, 2014, 08:27:39 PM
I dropped my HD800 and broke one of the connectors.  Senn did sell me a new pair of connectors...in case you want stock.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: n3rdling on March 28, 2014, 09:06:52 PM
I was going to suggest using the stock connectors that came with your HD800, using mogami/canara/belden/whatever for wire, and going to the nearest elementary school to find a kid that will braid your cable in whatever special geometric configuration for a lollipop and a pack of pokemon cards.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Thujone on March 28, 2014, 09:23:04 PM
Little late on this question probably but Amazon Warehouse is legit. I've ordered quite a few used products through there (headphones, rollerblades, etc.) and I've always been very impressed with the condition.

For what it's worth, I would go for the one that's "Used - Very Good" with the description "Item may come repackaged."
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 28, 2014, 09:41:19 PM
Yeah, I'm hoping the return units were from someone who only got a partial picture of the HD800 from the HF HD800 appreciation thread - and upon receipt - went WTF? It's a fricking face-tweeter - and returned it back to Amazon.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Thujone on March 28, 2014, 09:51:11 PM
Exactly. Not to mention you can just as easily return them to the warehouse if you don't like their condition, IIRC.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: SoupRKnowva on March 30, 2014, 04:50:16 AM
Do you have something against the stock cable? Since I got my hd800s i thought the cable was pretty nice on them. I had justin reterminate it with a 4 pin xlr for me. I was looking at the norne cables though. I'll have to email Trevor again.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on March 31, 2014, 06:33:40 PM
The stock cable is indeed very nice. Much higher quality than most people think. When I owned the HD800 a few years ago, I re-terminated the stock cable. However after some fairly recently comparisons, I do not like the sound of silver over copper. At least not for longer lengths.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Mr.Sneis on March 31, 2014, 07:10:31 PM
I don't have extensive hd800 cable comparisons under my belt but I always felt the sonic changes in hd800 cables were not as drastic as other phones like an Audeze or even the hd6x0's.  Surely Anax mod is more bang for buck. Seems to suggest that the hd800 cable is at least a solid performer.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on April 20, 2014, 06:41:51 PM
Getting a SE amp so I needed something besides the stock cable. Talked with Ted and just ordered this:

6', HD800, OCC Litz, Black sheathing with heatshrink Y, heatshrink covered HD800 connectors (like my balanced cable), Oyaide rhodium 6.3mm (looked the best)

Here's pics of my balanced cable. This one will look the same except the plug, of course. These were taken a while ago when I still had the Bryston.

(http://i57.tinypic.com/2hcm1d2.jpg)

(http://i57.tinypic.com/6nweuv.jpg)

(http://i57.tinypic.com/1582yxu.jpg)

Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on April 20, 2014, 07:23:27 PM
And apparently he's already making it and will ship it tomorrow morning.  :-0

Service!
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: hiyu64 on April 20, 2014, 11:36:37 PM
And apparently he's already making it and will ship it tomorrow morning.  :-0

Service!

yea ted's super fast
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on April 26, 2014, 12:24:13 AM
Got ze cable! Now I can compare OCC (Ted's) and SPC (stock) and see if cables make any audible difference to me. I can already tell the physical differences are significantly better with Ted's. Much lighter and easier to use.

(http://i57.tinypic.com/15cit69.jpg)
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Stapsy on April 26, 2014, 04:56:39 AM
There is certainly something to be said for cable weight.  Looks like a really nice cable. It is easy to see the high quality of craftsmanship from your picture.  I tried soldering my own cable and it ended up as a mess.  Ted offers his product at a very nice price.  I think copper is a solid improvement over the stock SPC unless you have a really warm front end.

At the local GTA meet I heard a solid core silver cable that I thought sounded very lean.  It is hard to tell at a meet as it could have been the amplifier. I am extremely happy with my Norne Audio Draug cable though.  It isn't as svelte as yours, however the HD800 are light enough that it doesn't bother me.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: scootermafia on May 15, 2014, 09:24:15 AM
Anax, you said you had a problem with that cable but never sent it in to me.  In any case, you had one of few 8 wire HD800 cables I built with that larger copper litz wire and it was not a great fit doing 8 wires for that connector.  The final email to me was you describing your tweaking of the plug and saying you didn't need any more help.  It's not like I wouldn't help you with it if you wanted my help.  The large HD800 plugs are used by everyone now - ALO, Toxic, Moon, Plussound, and everyone in between all use HD800 plugs from Ex-Pro in Hong Kong.  There aren't exactly a ton of options.  The Furutech ones are nothing special, Furutech is making plenty of their plugs in Taiwan now.  In any case, I've had no HD800 plug issues other than yours, maybe we just got bad luck with your plugs.  The ones I"ve seen with "play" move a tiny bit, but this isn't enough to disengage the key or get the pins anywhere near from leaving the socket - I've seen a few fail HD800 plugs in my time and wiggling them still can't make them cut out since the pins are still in the contact and the plugs don't move  wrongfully in any direction except in and out slightly.  With these new plugs you can solder 8 wires per connector if you want, so it's no big deal to solder 4 wires per connector. 

I know you wanted that mini-mini of mine that you saw in a pic, that wasn't a great cable though just a cool looking one, I was in the middle of a move at the time so I've got no clue where it is now; if you wanted something high performing I'd rather mail you some free stuff than you thinking I'm a douchebag or something. 
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on May 15, 2014, 03:50:43 PM
Anax, you said you had a problem with that cable but never sent it in to me.  In any case, you had one of few 8 wire HD800 cables I built with that larger copper litz wire and it was not a great fit doing 8 wires for that connector.  The final email to me was you describing your tweaking of the plug and saying you didn't need any more help.  It's not like I wouldn't help you with it if you wanted my help.  The large HD800 plugs are used by everyone now - ALO, Toxic, Moon, Plussound, and everyone in between all use HD800 plugs from Ex-Pro in Hong Kong.  There aren't exactly a ton of options.  The Furutech ones are nothing special, Furutech is making plenty of their plugs in Taiwan now.  In any case, I've had no HD800 plug issues other than yours, maybe we just got bad luck with your plugs.  The ones I"ve seen with "play" move a tiny bit, but this isn't enough to disengage the key or get the pins anywhere near from leaving the socket - I've seen a few fail HD800 plugs in my time and wiggling them still can't make them cut out since the pins are still in the contact and the plugs don't move  wrongfully in any direction except in and out slightly.  With these new plugs you can solder 8 wires per connector if you want, so it's no big deal to solder 4 wires per connector. 

I know you wanted that mini-mini of mine that you saw in a pic, that wasn't a great cable though just a cool looking one, I was in the middle of a move at the time so I've got no clue where it is now; if you wanted something high performing I'd rather mail you some free stuff than you thinking I'm a douchebag or something. 

Nah, perhaps you might have missed some of my emails as I reply to conversations rather than making new ones.  The email you refer to was my response after waiting for feedback on a couple prior emails that I assumed you just brushed off.  Obviously I'm not going to send out a cable I paid for to a blackhole without knowing if it will be received since I have no response.  I think this is the first time I've heard back since 4/18/2013 based on my records.  I'm sure it was just miscommunication and/or I probably got caught up with the SHOW so couldn't part with them at the time.  I'm glad to see you here now taking the time to address the issue because I like the cable. 

I know for a fact it is the poor tolerance causing the issue because when it cuts out I have to unplug the connector, straighten the pins a few micrometers by best guess and eyeball, then add more tape or nail polish to lock in the connector gap.  Once it starts to wiggle, bam it goes out again.  Feel free to pm me if you want to help me sort this out as I'm tired of messing with it for the 15th time.

I'll say this, my Peptide was clearly better sounding with more clarity and all that good stuff compared to the Wywires cable I tired at the meet we had a week ago.  That's why I still use it despite the niggles.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Riotvan on May 19, 2014, 05:58:54 PM
Anaxilus have you tried making a shim of some sort? That fixed wiggle problems i had with my old connectors. There was no cutting out but it bugged me none the less, i feared it might damage the connector. So basically some pieces of paper with a hole in it or a thin piece of cardboard to stabilize the connector.

In the end though i ordered some furutech connectors, i really like the screw for strain relief but quality control wasn't so good it seems. Don't get me wrong though they fit very snug(more so then stock) and have no wiggle at all but one of them was too snug. I could not get it over the white piece inside the connector without a lot of force. If it did get in there it would not be coming out, so in the end i had to use a drill to scrape the insides on the plug out a bit.

I hope they think of something better for their next flagship or perhaps everyone starts using mini-xlr's or something but thats wishful thinking.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on May 19, 2014, 06:44:46 PM
Anaxilus have you tried making a shim of some sort?

Yes, many times.  Paper, tape, they all wear out pretty quickly.  Nail polish lasted the longest so far.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: scootermafia on May 19, 2014, 07:03:25 PM
I'll just mail you something that's up to date.  PM me your address and length/amp connection.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Mr.Sneis on May 22, 2014, 08:04:09 PM
Well shiver me timbers I may have to look into a dual xlr cable for hd800 real soon.

I had a super nice DHC cable once upon a time - I don't think I've ever seen one come up for sale in the used market that was as nice :(

Anyone have any take on the plain jane cardas cable?  The clear line looks nice but seems stupidly expensive.  My guess is it will be on the heavier side of cable.

Alternatively re-terminating the stock cable is definitely an option but needing to be dual XLR not sure how it would look at the split.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: burnspbesq on May 22, 2014, 09:25:12 PM
Well shiver me timbers I may have to look into a dual xlr cable for hd800 real soon.

I had a super nice DHC cable once upon a time - I don't think I've ever seen one come up for sale in the used market that was as nice :(

Anyone have any take on the plain jane cardas cable?  The clear line looks nice but seems stupidly expensive.  My guess is it will be on the heavier side of cable.

Alternatively re-terminating the stock cable is definitely an option but needing to be dual XLR not sure how it would look at the split.

I have a "plain Jane Cardas" balanced cable (2x3-pin XLR) that I'm not using.  Happy to send it to you to try out.  PM me if interested.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Mr.Sneis on May 22, 2014, 09:37:41 PM
Thx burns, I may hit you up - there's a couple of used cables on the forums I'm eyeing!
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: anetode on June 06, 2014, 12:01:13 AM
Got tired of the bulky Cardas + techflex + bigass furutech plug cable and switched to ADL's iHP-35H. Very flexible, well-built, with sturdier HD800 jacks than the stock cable and it's reasonably light/small. Plus it's copper, the kind with the ridiculously long acronym before it. Got it through a Japanese broker for 150$ http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B00D54XCRQ/ - here in the states it starts out at 229.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Mr.Sneis on June 06, 2014, 12:39:19 AM
Thanks for the link anetode!  I may snag one of those in the future, looks solid.  Maybe the 3M XLR one.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on July 10, 2014, 04:23:35 AM
I'll just mail you something that's up to date.  PM me your address and length/amp connection.

Quick update:

Nearly 2 months and 2 pms later and not a word.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: EraserXIV on July 12, 2014, 06:49:44 PM
I'd rather mail you some free stuff than you thinking I'm a douchebag or something. 

So by his own logic... He's a douchebag?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: 7ryder on July 20, 2014, 11:46:52 PM
Got ze cable! Now I can compare OCC (Ted's) and SPC (stock) and see if cables make any audible difference to me. I can already tell the physical differences are significantly better with Ted's. Much lighter and easier to use.


Love the look of the cable and thinking of getting one myself, any SQ difference?  How's it sound with your GS-X mk 2?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on July 21, 2014, 01:59:32 AM
No difference I can tell. Too early with the GS-X yet.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: 7ryder on July 21, 2014, 01:48:09 PM
Is your balanced cable copper too?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: MattTCG on July 24, 2014, 11:29:18 PM
I ended up with a Vanquish cable from Trevor at Norne Audio. It's one of if not the most functional and pleasant cables that I've ever used. And I've used a few :-)
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: EraserXIV on July 25, 2014, 01:38:12 AM
I ended up with a Vanquish cable from Trevor at Norne Audio. It's one of if not the most functional and pleasant cables that I've ever used. And I've used a few :-)

I was also looking at that one as well, from both an aesthetic and ergonomic standpoint (as well as needing a balanced termination). Were you able to appreciate any sonic differences?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on July 25, 2014, 02:09:33 AM
Is your balanced cable copper too?
solid core silver
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: MattTCG on July 29, 2014, 01:43:12 AM
I ended up with a Vanquish cable from Trevor at Norne Audio. It's one of if not the most functional and pleasant cables that I've ever used. And I've used a few :-)

I was also looking at that one as well, from both an aesthetic and ergonomic standpoint (as well as needing a balanced termination). Were you able to appreciate any sonic differences?

I will call the Vanquish a slight improvement over stock (this is high praise from a guy who doesn't put much stock in cable changes).
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: lmswjm on August 19, 2014, 04:12:20 AM

Here's an entertaining read on the subject:

http://headmania.org/2014/06/18/aftermarket-cables-for-sennheiser-hd800/

Seriously, I think I'm gonna give the jaw dropping meaty Draug a try.
Anyone hear any of the Toxic offerings? I've always steered clear of its HF appreciation thread.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on August 19, 2014, 04:43:25 AM
I have the Norne litz on my HE5, highly recommend them for a quality product and quality service.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: SoupRKnowva on August 19, 2014, 05:20:27 AM
Yeah I was actually just looking at Norne's page last night again. My only problem is they seem to always be releasing new cables. I was looking at the vanquish, but they already have another one "coming soon" on the home page. And I wouldn't get draug, I don't know how I would like the plastic exterior coating vs the cloth on most of them
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on August 19, 2014, 06:02:10 AM
I heard you can get cloth on any of his stuff from another customer.  I prefer cloth myself for his lineup.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: lmswjm on August 20, 2014, 01:37:34 AM
I couldn't make up my mind about deciding on the Vanquish or Draug. I didn't really give any consideration to the soon to be released silver litz cable.

Anyway I gave Norne a call for which I'm glad I did. Trevor answered and was very gracious. I did my best to stay concise, but he was willing to shoot the shit a little and was very easy going.

He believes that the Draug and the HD800 have a certain synergy. It has stronger bass than the Vanquish with the same level of detail throughout the spectrum. He also felt that the upcoming silver litz cable wouldn't be as optimal either.

Maybe the 8x24 (21awg) config accounts for the difference in the bass. He thinks that this design is the sweet spot for the 800.

Trevor said that he hasn't had any complaints on comfort or manageability with this cable either despite its total gauge. Based on this I decided to leave cloth out of the equation. Currently, there are about 25 people on the list and he expects to ship mine approx mid September.

If this works out, the Code-X might also be getting a Draug as well. Trevor says it's not a problem with HiFiMan connectors. I believe he said he has an alternate connector that will work. Don't quote me on that because I was driving at the time with him on speakerphone.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: kothganesh on August 24, 2014, 03:51:18 PM
I have the WyWire cable - Red. I really like it.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: MattTCG on October 16, 2014, 06:17:54 PM
I ended up with a Vanquish cable from Trevor at Norne Audio. It's one of if not the most functional and pleasant cables that I've ever used. And I've used a few :-)

I was also looking at that one as well, from both an aesthetic and ergonomic standpoint (as well as needing a balanced termination). Were you able to appreciate any sonic differences?

I thought that the cable was certainly an improvement over stock sonically. I'm about to try a Draug 2 from Norne and hope that it's something worth writing about.

Any consensus on best hd800 cable?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: _RingingEars_ on October 18, 2014, 04:21:22 AM
I have a Norne Vanquish due to arrive anytime. I'll make sure to give my impression of it over the stock HD800 cable...
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: takato14 on October 18, 2014, 04:27:10 AM
Personally I just want an HD650 type deal, the huge gaudy braided cables never did it for me and just look/feel cumbersome

but I doubt that exists
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: HideousPride on October 18, 2014, 04:47:22 AM
We've actually just sourced something inexpensive (~$100) and understated. 2.5mm, 6N OCC copper, look for it by the end of the month. 
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: OJneg on October 18, 2014, 05:02:23 AM
We've actually just sourced something inexpensive (~$100) and understated. 2.5mm, 6N OCC copper, look for it by the end of the month. 

Huh interesting. 2.5mm refers to connector or cable size? Different lengths going to be available?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: purplegoat on October 18, 2014, 07:13:39 AM
I ended up with a Vanquish cable from Trevor at Norne Audio. It's one of if not the most functional and pleasant cables that I've ever used. And I've used a few :-)

I was also looking at that one as well, from both an aesthetic and ergonomic standpoint (as well as needing a balanced termination). Were you able to appreciate any sonic differences?

I thought that the cable was certainly an improvement over stock sonically. I'm about to try a Draug 2 from Norne and hope that it's something worth writing about.

Please let me know how that is. I like the Vanquish but still find the HD800 just slightly bass light.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: CEE TEE on October 18, 2014, 07:18:24 AM
Interested.  May be time to roll HD800 cables.  Hope not to miss the drop.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Thujone on October 22, 2014, 04:22:14 PM
Cheap alternative on massdrop right meow: https://www.massdrop.com/buy/sennheiser-hd-800-zy-cable/
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: aufmerksam on October 22, 2014, 04:34:03 PM
I just got the email for that drop, and was going to ask if anyone has used ZY cables before?

I mostly want to know about build quality, how  solid the connectors are (I hear Senn has the "true" connector on lock down), and whether or not it "shittifies" the sound.

Paying what Sennheiser is asking for a 4-pin termination is insane, and I was going to dissect the stock cable and put in my own 4-pin termination + 4-pin adapter back to original 1/4" jack. But for $110 this looks appealing.

HPride, if you can comment by comparison to the stock HD800 cable, that would be appreciated.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Thujone on October 22, 2014, 05:27:22 PM
Considering the connectors are $50, you can hardly go wrong for this price!

I just got my cable in from Ted at Headphone Lounge and it's fantastic. Would have jumped on this deal otherwise.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: HideousPride on October 22, 2014, 06:06:03 PM
I just got the email for that drop, and was going to ask if anyone has used ZY cables before?

I mostly want to know about build quality, how  solid the connectors are (I hear Senn has the "true" connector on lock down), and whether or not it "shittifies" the sound.

Paying what Sennheiser is asking for a 4-pin termination is insane, and I was going to dissect the stock cable and put in my own 4-pin termination + 4-pin adapter back to original 1/4" jack. But for $110 this looks appealing.

HPride, if you can comment by comparison to the stock HD800 cable, that would be appreciated.

I'll be the bearer of awkward news and say we currently don't have an HD800 at the office. I still need to move over a ton of audio stuff from Dallas, and Will ended up giving away the HD 800 we had at the LA meet raffle earlier this year.

We've dropped the ZY Cable for the HD 580/600/650 series as well as the IE8/IE80 and haven't had any build quality complaints as far as I'm aware. The cable itself feels solid and built out of quality products. I'm open to sending them out for people to try if there's interest in demoing them. If it craps on you, we'll take care of it.

(http://i.imgur.com/QAtB0xo.jpg)
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: takato14 on October 22, 2014, 06:44:59 PM
We've actually just sourced something inexpensive (~$100) and understated. 2.5mm, 6N OCC copper, look for it by the end of the month. 
That's pretty ambiguous, what should I look for specifically (name?) and where?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: HideousPride on October 22, 2014, 06:48:23 PM
We've actually just sourced something inexpensive (~$100) and understated. 2.5mm, 6N OCC copper, look for it by the end of the month. 
That's pretty ambiguous, what should I look for specifically (name?) and where?

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/sennheiser-hd-800-zy-cable?mode=guest_open
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on October 22, 2014, 06:51:36 PM
We've actually just sourced something inexpensive (~$100) and understated. 2.5mm, 6N OCC copper, look for it by the end of the month. 
That's pretty ambiguous, what should I look for specifically (name?) and where?

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/sennheiser-hd-800-zy-cable?mode=guest_open

HP, can confirm what type of wire it is.  Is it true litz and if so, what type and whether each strand is enameled.  Thx.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: takato14 on October 23, 2014, 02:20:23 AM
We've actually just sourced something inexpensive (~$100) and understated. 2.5mm, 6N OCC copper, look for it by the end of the month. 
That's pretty ambiguous, what should I look for specifically (name?) and where?

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/sennheiser-hd-800-zy-cable?mode=guest_open
Well it's nicer looking than the stock one, at least. I'm still waiting for a vanilla, black PVC-jacketed cable that looks like the one on the HD650. I'd probably have to do that one myself, since no one else wants that...
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on October 23, 2014, 04:23:10 AM
Looks nice. I now have 3 HD800 cables, stock, and two by Ted, one a OCC copper unbalanced, one a solid core silver 4pin XLR. I'm tempted to get one of these in 4pin XLR as I know my solid core cable is susceptible to breakage (it has already twice, but not since I found out it was solid core).
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: HideousPride on October 23, 2014, 05:11:04 PM
Here's the sales pitch description we were given, take it with a grain of salt:

This cable is made of Hi-End audiophile grade materials, Japan FURUKAWA PCOCC cable with black color Teflon sleeving, Swiss made Neutrik 6.3mm(1/4") stereo plug and 24k gold-plated connector pins. Qual braided handcraft in order to minimizes transmission phase shifts, reduce interference noises and minimizes transmission phase shifts distortions. This cable will bring to you an amazing feeling, absolutely blows the original cable out! Sound stage is wider and accurately sound image, strong bass and deep low-frequency descending. Abundant levels of the intermediate-frequency, with elasticity and sweet vocal voice. The high-frequency is clear, elegant, soft and good, while without being burry.

Heh... burry. 
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Thujone on October 23, 2014, 06:51:44 PM
Phew. Burry treble is a bitch.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Maxvla on October 23, 2014, 06:55:17 PM
It made it to $100. I'll think about it.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: aufmerksam on October 23, 2014, 07:18:21 PM
Thanks for the info HP and discussion by others. Quick replies yesterday led me to commit, BEFORE finding out about the "amazing feeling" I can look forward to.

I'm also glad they took the time to qual braid handcraft the cable to minimize both transmission phase shifts, and transmission phase shifts distortions. I think this is the apogee of cable making, short of anax hand massaging each one. 

But seriously, glad to see we made it to the $99 mark already.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: cizx on November 09, 2014, 07:12:30 PM
So, like, did everyone come to consensus on the "best" XLR cable?  I just ordered an HD 800 to possibly replace the LCD-3F (after I can test w/ Raggy) and I need a balanced cable.

I'd get the Senn. one, but I don't know if the silver will make the whole thing too squeaky.  :gross:

MD doesn't have the ZY anymore.  How'd that one pan out for people?

I actually like the look of the Norne cables.  Maybe one of those?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: lmswjm on November 09, 2014, 09:49:13 PM
ZY hasn't shipped yet. I've been happy with the Draug V2 so far.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: cizx on November 09, 2014, 10:57:07 PM
Yeah, leaning toward the Draug.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Chris1967 on November 11, 2014, 08:01:34 AM
I have also bought the ZY balanced cable and still waiting for it.

For the people that missed the drop, it is available on e-bay, but at the $150 mark including postage...  http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Amazing-Balanced-Upgrade-Cable-For-HD800-Headphones-XLR-4-Pins-CANNON-PLUG-2-5M-/251578675480?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&var=&hash=item3a9341f118

I am currently using the stock cable balanced and for using the 800's with portable devices, i have made me a shorter length using mini jack from HiFiMan silver plated cable and acrolink plugs.

It is nice and light although moderately microphonic.

I cannot comment on the HiFiman cable sonic differences with the stock cable, since i have not made a direct comparison, but i feel it compliments my Sansa Clip+ and Fiio X3 well with the HD 800's (maybe better than stock but unsure).
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: cizx on November 11, 2014, 05:15:34 PM
I should have the Norne cable this week... probably before Ragnarok.  I'll make whatever comments I can when I get everything.  I assume microphonics won't be an issue because the cable's braided, but I really have nothing but assumptions to back that up.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on November 11, 2014, 07:23:28 PM
So is the ZY that 7 stranded Type 6 litz cable on the homepage?  Think I want to try that out.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: MattTCG on November 13, 2014, 12:10:55 AM
So is the ZY that 7 stranded Type 6 litz cable on the homepage?  Think I want to try that out.

My Draug 2 shipping any day. Hopefully receiving it beginning of next week...
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Clemmaster on November 13, 2014, 12:49:01 AM
I have the ZY cable balanced for my HD-800. Best cable I've used with my pair! The only one, too :D

Seriously, it seems to work great but can't compare to anything else. Have the stock cable, but it's SE. No harshness / glare that I could detect on either the Rag (expectedly) or the SA-31SE. Both used with R2R DACs.

It is very thin (similar to HE-560 stock) but quite stiff.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Sorrodje on November 13, 2014, 07:40:27 AM
I bought this cable from Venus Audio and received it a few days ago :

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Cardas-HD-800-Sennheiser-3m-Headphone-Cable-Balanced-Neutrik-Gold-Furutech-1-4-/121463901322

(http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/OTAyWDE2MDA=/z/4esAAOSwRLZT4CWv/$_57.JPG)


Very well built. not too expensive and looks solid.  The Cable is a bit too stiff for my tastes but less than stock one. I'm happy with the purchase.  :money:
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Chris1967 on December 03, 2014, 06:42:45 PM
My ZY balanced cable arrived today, and i am doing some listening.

Initial impressions are that the treble is a little softer, and bass quantity is slightly more.

Mids seam a tad fuller.

I cannot hear any differences in imaging.

I am not a cable believer but this is really making a small but noticeable difference.

Main cable a bit stiff due to the plastic woven sheath, after the split the cables going to either side are pliable enough, not bad with micro phonics.

Plugs fit nearly as secure a stock senn plugs.

Glad i bought it.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: JoelT on December 03, 2014, 10:56:52 PM
I've had my ZY cable for about 2 weeks now, and am in agreement with Chris' comments: A bit less bite/edge to the treble, but not at the expense of detail (if anything detail retrieval is slightly better to my ear), and yes, a marginally fuller sound all around. A touch less dry as well perhaps. Ultimately a move in the right direction for my listening preferences - not a huge change, but certainly noticeable.

I only purchased one in order to have a cheap 4 pin HD800 cable ready to plug in to the Ragnarok (amp should be here next week  :)p1), so the subtle shift in presentation was a pleasant suprise and most welcome. I'm quite happy given the cheap selling price.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Kyle 491 on December 03, 2014, 11:19:46 PM
I've had the Zy cable now for a few days connected to the Ragnarok. All I can say is the treble seems slightly subdued with this combo versus the stock single ended cable connected to the Matrix M-Stage or the Vali, there might be a bit more bass, but the contrast between highs and lows seems slightly diminished and the sound is slightly softer as a result. But the difference in detail and microdynamics through the Ragnarok is undeniable.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: JoelT on December 03, 2014, 11:46:31 PM
All I can say is the treble seems slightly subdued with this combo versus the stock single ended cable connected to the Matrix M-Stage or the Vali, there might be a bit more bass, but the contrast between highs and lows seems slightly diminished and the sound is slightly softer as a result.

Good way of putting it. I think it's a more balanced presentation, rather than more bass per say. As someone who finds the HD800 a bit too bright oftentimes, it's a welcome adjustment. I would note that the sound is softer in the treble spectrum, but not "soft" per say. I ended up pulling out the foam ring around the driver on my Anax 2.0 mod, and just leaving in the trapazoid/liner and am quite pleased with where the tonality currently sits.

Do you plan on testing any other cables with the Rag? Or are you pretty happy with the ZY's sound?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Chris1967 on December 04, 2014, 08:35:26 AM
I am glad there is agreement, i am always a little cautious with my descriptions of how something sounds in comparison to something else.

I find that enthusiasm and subjectivity might influence the brain for wrong conclusion.

In this instance it certainly has "tamed" my rig (JLsoundsAK4396/SalasPS diy USB dac, VanDenHul The First Hybrid, Schiit Mjolnir, HD800 AnaxII) which can sound very edgy with some recordings and has slight digital glare.

I guess the proof of the pudding was that i stayed up late till 2 in the morning listening to music (and i am listening at this very moment).

It even made the hiss from the Living Stereo remasters more tolerable.

There seams not to be any detail loss, i cannot comment as to if there is more information coming through, i doubt it does.

I feel it is a bargain at this price not only considering the sound but also the prices of the plugs ect.

I hope Anax and Purin get to listen and tell us better.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on December 04, 2014, 09:54:57 AM
I hope Anax and Purin get to listen and tell us better.

That may or may not happen, we'll see. Regardless, you guys seem to be coming to similar independent observations short of being locked away in individual living pods.  I certainly trust what you guys are claiming to hear is genuine to you and possibly observationally accurate.  I think the noting of similar benefits, similar drawbacks and tradeoffs speaks well to that.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: kothganesh on December 04, 2014, 05:28:11 PM
Tell you what. I have the ZY cable and listened to the 800 with the Mojo. No such luck for me. Probably need the Rag soon. Happy to listen to the 800 SE on either the Bh Crack+speedball or the ZD. Its an appreciably different sound with the latter two amps.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Chris1967 on December 05, 2014, 08:38:45 AM
No such luck, meaning you didn't notice any difference compared to the stock (?) cable, or rather that even the small difference the ZY made you still don't like the HD800 paired with Mojo? and if you heard a difference what was it?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: kothganesh on December 05, 2014, 09:20:33 AM
Its more the latter, i.e. I don't like the Mojo - HD 800 pairing. My initial impression is that its a touch warmer than stock. That's it. But Chris, I notice that you have the Anax 2 mod while mine is unmodded. So its not apples to apples, is it?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Sorrodje on December 05, 2014, 09:47:39 AM
Its more the latter, i.e. I don't like the Mojo - HD 800 pairing.

What did you not like finally ?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Chris1967 on December 05, 2014, 10:05:59 AM
Its more the latter, i.e. I don't like the Mojo - HD 800 pairing. My initial impression is that its a touch warmer than stock. That's it. But Chris, I notice that you have the Anax 2 mod while mine is unmodded. So its not apples to apples, is it?

Definately not the same comparison.

But, did you try to mod the HD800 and you didn't like it? it is quite easy and reversible.

I know the Mojo may be (is) aggressive and a little grainy, but choosing your recordings will get you very good results with the HD800.

I use other phones (HiFiMan HE-500 and Fostex T50rp modded mainly at the moment) with this amp and i have plans to get some model from Audeze in the near future.

I find besides this assertiveness (as Purin said) it is a dam fine amplifier.

But anyway personal taste i do respect.

And cables only fine tune something.   
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: kothganesh on December 05, 2014, 10:23:56 AM
Sorrodje: The resultant aggression from my unmodded HD800 and Mojo was a little too much; I prefer tube amps thus far. But as Chris suggests above, time to get my 10 thumbs working to do some modding. I'll probably start with felt around the driver and see if I need the trapezoid at all. Chris, I use the Gungnir/Mojo combo for almost all my orthos - Audez'e and Paradox Slants. The Audez'e HPs and the Mojo have this great chemistry.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Sorrodje on December 05, 2014, 10:55:12 AM
I see.  Mjolnir /Unmodded HD800 is maybe not a combo I could live with.  I much prefer my Sonett 2 indeed.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: kothganesh on December 05, 2014, 11:01:31 AM
Maybe its me but I don't see a need to use the HD modded with my ZD or for that matter the BH Crack.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Sorrodje on December 05, 2014, 11:27:37 AM
Maybe its me but I don't see a need to use the HD modded with my ZD or for that matter the BH Crack.


Me neither with the DNA Sonett or the Balancing Act i tried once or from any Meier amp I tried or Owned :)
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: kothganesh on December 06, 2014, 11:49:39 AM
Hi Chris:

Finally did the Anax mod with a lot of help from my daughter (I have a nerve problem that leaves my thumb unsteady all the time). Used the ring for the "warmer and thicker" sound. Right of the bat, no loss of detail (to my ears) but a bit more bass and ever so softer treble. Its warmer now. And guess what, this is with the Mojo ands the ZY cable (balanced). I have not glued the foam completely to the ring yet. The irritating thing I have to import simple things like the creatology adhesive sheets etc etc.

Now to make sure this is not my imagination, I need to get some extended listening in.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Chris1967 on December 06, 2014, 01:59:36 PM
Good! I think in this way you make the HD800 more listenable by increasing the amount of recordings that you can listen to without fatigue, and at the same time you keep your Mojo for your Orthos.

The truth is that even with the ZY and mods the HD800 is not a perfect match for the Mojo, it benefits from the pure dynamics and power.

I am very curious about the Rag, but as they say, no money no honey...  :)p13
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: knerian on January 06, 2015, 06:27:37 AM
After calling cables snake oil I just dropped a small fortune on HEADPHONE CABLES!!!  In preparation for getting on the Rag, I got a balanced HD800 cable from Norne and a balanced HE-560 cable from headphone lounge.  Why are they so damn expensive?  Actually compared to non-Ebay Chinese cables these two companies are actually on the low side, and even a custom cable is cheaper than the Sennheiser balanced cable, but for crysakes just to listen to balanced amps it's almost half the cost of the transfuckingducers.

Now I'm all in, this sickness has got me by the throat, can't wait to post the photos here, I will rent an 800mm lens just to get the super thinnest DOF to show off my dreamy custom y-splitters.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: pyu on January 30, 2015, 07:59:26 AM
After calling cables snake oil I just dropped a small fortune on HEADPHONE CABLES!!!  In preparation for getting on the Rag, I got a balanced HD800 cable from Norne and a balanced HE-560 cable from headphone lounge.  Why are they so damn expensive?  Actually compared to non-Ebay Chinese cables these two companies are actually on the low side, and even a custom cable is cheaper than the Sennheiser balanced cable, but for crysakes just to listen to balanced amps it's almost half the cost of the transfuckingducers.

Now I'm all in, this sickness has got me by the throat, can't wait to post the photos here, I will rent an 800mm lens just to get the super thinnest DOF to show off my dreamy custom y-splitters.

My Draug v2 for the HD800, together with its 4-pin XLR to 6.35mm adaptor, arrived three weeks ago. The only bad thing is that the 4-pin XLR portion is very bulky. Consulted with Trevor and it seemed he couldn't offer the mini-XLR form factor for the adaptor connector due to the overall thickness.

First of all, the retailer from which I bought the HD800 gave me the APureSoundv3 - a silver-plated copper cable. The difference between that and the stock cable was discernable for me - the APureSoundv3 was just less harsh and strident at the same volumes. Then, since I planned to go for a balance output amps someday, I did some research and then decided on the Draug v2.

The difference... to be honest, I can't really tell if there's any bass differences at the volumes I am listening at.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: knerian on January 30, 2015, 09:27:33 AM
I got one of the Norne cables too, I'll put up a pic of it.  I haven't even A/B'd it for sound, I don't really care, it's just so much more comfortable and convenient to use.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Anaxilus on April 15, 2015, 06:20:34 AM
Just wanted to update the thread and chime in that Peter at Double Helix finally came through with a replacement cable to alleviate my connector issues.  :)p5
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: MattTCG on April 16, 2015, 06:28:31 PM
^^ Wow...and how long did it take all together?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: JoelT on May 01, 2015, 02:04:32 AM
I moved from the Massdrop ZY HD800 cable, to a Norne Draug 2 (Litz Copper). Comparatively, the ZY cable is soft sounding...limp dick perhaps, lacking in bass weight and impact. The ZY cable was also less resolving, brighter and had a smaller stage - all in all, kinda shitty in retrospect. The Draug is darker, fuller, very smooth and organic, pairing well with my Ragnarok (neutral and a bit dry). It has great bass impact as well. The wait time from Norne was long (2.5 months), but Trevor's treated me well, offering discounts for the wait time. Recommended.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: cizx on May 01, 2015, 07:18:43 AM
Sadly, I actually find myself agreeing that the norne draug cable sounds better than the ZY. I didn't think cables would make a difference, especially with the 800 because of the tiny connectors, but I was wrong.

I found the norne cable gave it a blacker background and drier timbre. I don't know if those are accurate terms.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: pyfgcrl on May 05, 2015, 04:39:34 PM
Have purr1n or anyone else that you know of done quantitative measurements of HD800 with different cables?  I picked up the ZY 4-pin XLR (missed out on Massdrop but got this (http://www.ebay.com/itm/121362056400) one from Shenzhen Audio Store (http://www.ebay.com/usr/wsz0304) on eBay a few weeks back) but I'd certainly be interested in seeing what measurements look like against the Draug v2.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: pyfgcrl on May 05, 2015, 05:07:06 PM
While we are at it, are the Amazon warehouse HD800 deals OK? Don't care about scratches. And I figure I can measure them for anomalies.
Here's a little anecdote for those looking for a good deal on the HD800.  I bought my pair from these guys (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sennheiser-HD-800-flagship-Audiophile-Grade-Headphones-super-clean-HD800-/111649735409), which they list as used for $999, free shipping.  So now, here's where it gets interesting — after I made my payment they offered to send me a new pair for an extra (under the proverbial eBay table) PayPal payment of $100 more, I politely declined that and I was still shipped a brand new pair.  Completely new, unopened, sealed box, serial and hologram checked out with Sennheiser and the warranty registered and they sent off the Diffuse-Field Freq Response cert a few days later.  I can't say that would be everyone's experience, but I took a chance, knowing I could always fall back on eBay/PayPal policies and I don't know of a better deal on HD800s right now.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: evanft on May 06, 2015, 03:52:14 PM
Here's a little anecdote for those looking for a good deal on the HD800.  I bought my pair from these guys (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sennheiser-HD-800-flagship-Audiophile-Grade-Headphones-super-clean-HD800-/111649735409), which they list as used for $999, free shipping.  So now, here's where it gets interesting — after I made my payment they offered to send me a new pair for an extra (under the proverbial eBay table) PayPal payment of $100 more, I politely declined that and I was still shipped a brand new pair.  Completely new, unopened, sealed box, serial and hologram checked out with Sennheiser and the warranty registered and they sent off the Diffuse-Field Freq Response cert a few days later.  I can't say that would be everyone's experience, but I took a chance, knowing I could always fall back on eBay/PayPal policies and I don't know of a better deal on HD800s right now.

Amazon warehouse sells on eBay?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: pyfgcrl on May 07, 2015, 04:10:21 AM
Amazon warehouse sells on eBay?
I assumed purrin was asking about used in general.  Why would you buy Amazon Warehouse returns/damaged retail boxes/what-have-you unless you were looking for a price break.  My share was about what I thought was a good deal on what ended up being a brand-new set of HD800s.  It's either useful, or it's not.  If not — move on, right?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Marvey on May 07, 2015, 04:34:42 AM
certainly be interested in seeing what measurements look like against the Draug v2.

We've left same HD800 on measurement rig not moving it and changed cables. Standard headphone measurement suite shows cables as the same. However, different cables to have different resistance, capacitance, inductance.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: pyfgcrl on May 07, 2015, 02:01:19 PM
We've left same HD800 on measurement rig not moving it and changed cables. Standard headphone measurement suite shows cables as the same. However, different cables to have different resistance, capacitance, inductance.

So the cables produce no apparent differences in all the SQ/FR tests you can run, but the cables themselves measure differently when tested solely for electrical characteristics?  Would that imply to you it doesn't really matter which cable you have, if all you're interested in is an appreciable difference in SQ/FR?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Armaegis on May 07, 2015, 02:41:09 PM
You're lumping sound quality and frequency response together...  the latter is measurable, the former is not.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Kevin5236 on May 07, 2015, 03:09:34 PM
There is no way to scientifically measure what a cable will do in your system compared to another. You have to listen to the cables you're comparing and that's how you can tell them apart. Every cable will do something different to your system as they each have their own associated properties as far as metallurgy, impedance, etc is involved. We've been trying to tell this to our customers for 4 years and it does not seem to want to sink in. Every customer wants us to measure two different cables and compare them that way to see which is "better". It's just not possible.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: pyfgcrl on May 07, 2015, 03:46:42 PM
You're lumping sound quality and frequency response together...  the latter is measurable, the former is not.
Okay, thanks - sound quality is up to the individual's perception.  Wasn't looking to conflate the two, but I can see how it looks that way.

There is no way to scientifically measure what a cable will do in your system compared to another. You have to listen to the cables you're comparing and that's how you can tell them apart. Every cable will do something different to your system as they each have their own associated properties as far as metallurgy, impedance, etc is involved. We've been trying to tell this to our customers for 4 years and it does not seem to want to sink in. Every customer wants us to measure two different cables and compare them that way to see which is "better". It's just not possible.

Perhaps because it's hard to understand how something that produces an appreciable difference in the way the sound is received to your ears cannot also be quantified with testing equipment.  Is that because today's equipment isn't sensitive enough, because we're running the wrong tests, or could it simply be chalked up to confirmation bias?
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Solderdude on May 08, 2015, 09:59:07 AM
There is no way to scientifically measure what a cable will do in your system compared to another.

When you electrically subtract the signal from the output of a cable with that of the input of the cable then you end up with the difference in that specific setup.
Now that isn't a really hard test to do ...
You need to make small adapters that allow you to get the voltage out at both ends of the cable.
You can use test tones or music whatever you want.

Have done this in the past myself and it is interesting (especially with interlinks).

You need to do it yourself to find the answer ... not gonna spill any beans here.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Ringingears on May 08, 2015, 02:57:33 PM
When you electrically subtract the signal from the output of a cable with that of the input of the cable then you end up with the difference in that specific setup.
Now that isn't a really hard test to do ...
You need to make small adapters that allow you to get the voltage out at both ends of the cable.
You can use test tones or music whatever you want.

Have done this in the past myself and it is interesting (especially with interlinks).

You need to do it yourself to find the answer ... not gonna spill any beans here.

You spill beans here and you have to clean them up.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Solderdude on May 08, 2015, 06:28:34 PM
You spill beans here and you have to clean them up.


Yes .. I know...  that's why I don't try to spill any ...
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: pyu on May 20, 2015, 07:54:36 AM
PSA - the ZY HD800 cable is back on Massdrop if anyone is looking for a more affordable aftermarket option.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Inseoncds99 on August 10, 2015, 06:13:17 PM
Getting a SE amp so I needed something besides the stock cable. Talked with Ted and just ordered this:

6', HD800, OCC Litz, Black sheathing with heatshrink Y, heatshrink covered HD800 connectors (like my balanced cable), Oyaide rhodium 6.3mm (looked the best)

Here's pics of my balanced cable. This one will look the same except the plug, of course. These were taken a while ago when I still had the Bryston.

(http://i57.tinypic.com/2hcm1d2.jpg)

(http://i57.tinypic.com/6nweuv.jpg)

(http://i57.tinypic.com/1582yxu.jpg)


Can you link me to the website or person that made this cable as I am looking for exactly this except for it being 5 feet and a 1/4 termination.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: JMcMasterJ on August 10, 2015, 06:25:53 PM
headphonelounge (http://headphonelounge.com)
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: DubiousMike on August 12, 2015, 12:41:20 AM
FWIW - venus audio (via ebay) also makes very similar looking, and modestly priced, balanced hd800 cables out of cardas or canare wire, depending on your preferred price point.

I have the cardas version and can confirm that it is a very nicely made cable.  That said, if you forced me to take a DBT comparing the venus cardas to my stock cable, which I reterminated with cardas eutectic solder and a neutrik 4-pin XLR, I'm fairly confident that I would fail.  I do theoretically appreciate knowing that there's no skin effect to worry about in the cardas litz wire - notwithstanding that it isn't really supposed to impact the audio band in any event. 

All in all, I remain a cable agnostic - who wishes solderdude would just spill those beans!  I've toyed with the notion of making some sort of reverse adapters, in order to run different headphone cables through diffmaker for years now, but evidently I'm too lazy to actually do it (or at least I have been so far).
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: Solderdude on August 12, 2015, 05:17:55 AM
All in all, I remain a cable agnostic - who wishes solderdude would just spill those beans!  I've toyed with the notion of making some sort of reverse adapters, in order to run different headphone cables through diffmaker for years now, but evidently I'm too lazy to actually do it (or at least I have been so far).

Like in the other thread (http://www.changstar.com/index.php/topic,2691.msg77047/topicseen.html#new (http://www.changstar.com/index.php/topic,2691.msg77047/topicseen.html#new)) ... decent connectors (+ solderjoints/strain relief) and clean sockets is all you need.

and .... diffmaker running 2 sets of separate 'recordings' won't do it for the simple reason that the clock generator will never 'sync' exactly the same resulting in showing differences that aren't really there.

There is only one option and that's by building a real differential amp (and recording the result).
Educational for sure....
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: SoupRKnowva on August 12, 2015, 09:17:45 AM
Finally ordered myself an aftermarket cable. Got tired of how long the stock cable is right now and I wanted something shorter. Got the new Zoetic series from Norne audio, apparently according to Trevor, it's better than the draug v2, it's just less labor intensive so it is slightly cheaper.

Hopefully the wait won't be too long.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: FlySweep on August 13, 2015, 06:23:52 AM
Finally ordered myself an aftermarket cable. Got tired of how long the stock cable is right now and I wanted something shorter. Got the new Zoetic series from Norne audio, apparently according to Trevor, it's better than the draug v2, it's just less labor intensive so it is slightly cheaper.

Hopefully the wait won't be too long.

Sweet..  looking forward to your impressions with the HD800.. I've been considering that cable for a while, too.  Heard it's pretty badass with the HE-560.
Title: Re: HD800 cable?
Post by: SoupRKnowva on August 13, 2015, 02:12:57 PM
Sweet..  looking forward to your impressions with the HD800.. I've been considering that cable for a while, too.  Heard it's pretty badass with the HE-560.


I'm not a big cable believer, I didn't buy it to improve sound, only for ergonomics of a shorter cable haha I won't even be comparing it to the stock cable, just switch and move on with my business. I guess I'll same some things about how it feels and it's build quality and such though.