You’re just describing soundstage and imaging. Get some open back Hifimans or an HD800.

Just use a Questyle m15 and be done with it. Works incredibly well on the 6X0 series.

While I’m not going to severely injure myself to take a break from my headphones, I highly recommend this. Coming back to certain gear after some time off feels incredible. Also, all the best on your recovery man, it sounds rough.

It’s mostly been Sony stuff. Their XM3/4 buds died on me every 4-5 months. I got the XM4 replaced under warranty twice then the third pair died on me 6 months in out of warranty and I just gave up. Currently on the AirPods Pro 2 for TWS stuff.

I’m glad you enjoy em but I’m just sick of battery powered nonsense. In my experience, they crap out every 4 months like clockwork.

Hifimans absolutely do, even if you can get the desired volume out of a cheap amp.

These ultra cheap earbuds generally don’t last. I used to get those $20 Sennheiser earbuds when I was a kid and they barely lasted 3 months.

Fuck it I’m pulling the trigger on the IER. Every post I see of it just makes me want it more.

The AirPods Pro 2 sound pretty blunted, especially when listening to music. Their main draw is the insane noise cancelling, comfort and convenience. That said, I don’t ever listen to music on them due to the aforementioned blunted sound. Podcasts sound pretty good.

1. The 660S is not the best value headphone in the first place
2. If you can barely tell a difference between the absurdly bloated WH 1000 XM4 and the bass rolled off 660S2 then don’t go too deep into the hobby to begin with.