Buying Guide
Best Headphone Setups for Audiophiles Under ₹20,000
In today's video, we're doing a complete audiophile-grade headphone system built for under a budget of 20,000 rupees. Now you'll find that for a budget of 20,000 rupees you have some incredible Headphones and IEMs which are available but very often we'll ask you to add a dongle DAC a Headphone Amplifier maybe a balanced cable to bring out most of your IEMs or your Headphones and that adds to the components and the cost of the overall system. So we're taking a budget of 20,000 rupees which I think is a very generous budget and moving backwards from there to figure out what the best-sounding setups are with the complete setup falling within the budget of 20,000 rupees.
Featured in this Blog
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Audiophile Community Favourite
When I see a product that keeps coming up in forums, Reddit threads, and community meet-ups, I know it’s earned its place. "Audiophile Community Favourite" is our way of spotlighting the gear that real listeners — not just reviewers — swear by. 🦋
These are products that enjoy a sort of cult following for all the right reasons: consistently great tuning, build, and value. They're the kind of recommendations you'd get from a friend deep in the hobby. If you're the type who likes going with a proven crowd-pleaser, these picks are beloved by thousands of ears.
When you see '🦋 Audiophile Community Favourite' products, expect reliable recommendations backed by passionate users, often refined over years of trust and love from the community.
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Tweak & Tune the Sound
Why settle for a fixed sound signature when you can shape your audio experience exactly to your preferences 🎛️?
I love products that put you in the driver's seat of your audio journey. These specialised headphones come equipped with sophisticated, customisable tuning capabilities that let you adjust every aspect of the frequency spectrum. Think of it like having a personal audio chef who can adjust the recipe to your exact taste - more bass for your workout playlist, clearer mids for podcasts, or sparkling highs for classical music.
The adjustable sound signature means you can fine-tune bass response, adjust midrange clarity, or enhance treble detail. Whether you prefer deep bass frequencies, crystal-clear midrange presence, or pristine high-frequency detail, these solutions put you in complete control of your sound 🎚️.
When you encounter "🔧 Tweak & Tune the Sound" products, expect complete sonic customisation that adapts perfectly to your unique listening preferences across different genres.
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Balanced Sound Signature
In my experience, a balanced sound signature is like a well-cooked meal—nothing overpowering, everything in harmony. If you’re someone who listens to a bit of everything—rock one day, jazz the next—this is the tuning I’d recommend. It doesn’t boost any part of the sound unnaturally, so what you hear is often how the artist intended it. 🎧
Here’s what’s actually happening: the headphones don’t favour bass, mids, or treble excessively. This results in a neutral, natural, and versatile sound that suits a wide variety of music genres. While it may not feel as “exciting” as some more coloured tunings, balanced headphones tend to offer the most accurate reproduction, making them a favourite among audiophiles and studio pros alike.
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Ultra-Wide Sound stage
Do you wish to bring the concert hall to your ears 🏛️?
I love describing ultra-wide soundstage as "audio magic" that creates a breathtaking three-dimensional environment around your head. These specialised headphones feature an exceptionally spacious soundstage that creates the illusion you're sitting in the sweet spot of a magnificent performance venue. Think of it like teleportation technology for your ears - suddenly you're not wearing headphones, you're sitting in Carnegie Hall with perfect acoustics.
The precise instrument placement and remarkable sense of space work together to transport you directly into the music, making you feel as though you're experiencing a live performance. This creates a listening experience that's grand, enveloping, and incredibly detailed 🎭.
When you encounter "😳 Ultra-Wide Soundstage" products, expect concert hall acoustics that make you forget you're wearing headphones through sheer spaciousness and realism.
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Crisp Vocals & Instruments
Vocals and instruments sound so good, it's like a warm hug !
I believe that when vocals are reproduced correctly, they should feel like the artist is performing right there with you. These headphones demonstrate exceptional prowess in reproducing clear, articulate vocals and instruments, with each element rendered in stunning detail and separation. Think of it like having front-row seats to an intimate acoustic performance where every breath, every string resonance, every subtle inflection comes through perfectly.
The natural timbre and tonal accuracy create an engaging presentation where every nuance is preserved while maintaining fatigue-free listening. Each word, note, and subtle inflection is reproduced with outstanding definition and emotional connection 🎤.
When you encounter "🍿 Crisp Vocals & Instruments" products, expect vocal excellence that brings you closer to the emotional heart of every performance. -
Sharp & Precise Details
Are you a lover of sharp and precise details 🔍?
I believe that detail retrieval is like having audio superpowers - suddenly, you hear things in familiar songs that you never knew existed. These premium headphones are meticulously engineered to deliver remarkably detailed and precise sound reproduction, capturing every subtle nuance with exceptional accuracy. Think of them like high-resolution cameras for your ears that reveal the finest textures and micro-details that most headphones simply miss.
The carefully tuned drivers and advanced acoustic design ensure even the most delicate musical elements are reproduced with stunning precision. From the gentle brush of a cymbal to the subtle resonance of acoustic instruments, these products capture and present every sonic detail with remarkable accuracy 🎯.
When you see "📌 Sharp & Precise Details" products, expect extraordinary detail resolution that reveals new layers in familiar recordings with stunning clarity and precision.
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Value for Money
I've found that the best gear isn’t always the most expensive. Some products punch well above their weight and deliver performance that rivals higher-priced alternatives. That’s what we mean with the "Value for Money" badge. It’s our way of telling you that you’re getting something special without breaking the bank. 🥜
These products are all about maximum returns for minimal investment. You’re not just saving money — you’re gaining an audio experience that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s build quality, tuning, or bundled accessories, these picks overdeliver.
When you see '🥜 Value for Money' products, expect impressive performance at an affordable price, making them a smart pick for budget-conscious buyers or first-time audiophiles.
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Ideal for Beginners
Lost in the vast world of audio equipment?
Don't worry, we're here to guide you 🤝! I believe that everyone's audiophile journey should start with something approachable and welcoming. These carefully selected products serve as the perfect entry point into high-quality sound, specifically chosen to help you navigate through sometimes overwhelming technical options. Think of them as your friendly neighbourhood guide who knows exactly where to start without getting lost in complex specifications.
These products strike an ideal balance between quality and accessibility, featuring user-friendly designs and straightforward functionality. They're specifically selected as the perfect starting point for your audiophile journey, offering serious performance without intimidating complexity or premium pricing that might discourage exploration.
When you encounter "🌱 Ideal for Beginners" products, expect approachable excellence - these are your stepping stones into the world of premium audio, designed to grow with your developing appreciation for great sound.
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Warm & Smooth Sound Signature
I tend to describe a warm & smooth sound signature as the audio equivalent of a hot cup of tea on a rainy day—comforting, rich, and easy to love. It's perfect for those who prefer relaxed, fatigue-free listening that doesn’t stab you with harsh highs or overly clinical detail. ☕🎶
Technically, this means a slightly elevated bass and lower midrange, with tamed treble to prevent any sharpness. The result is a sound that's full-bodied and inviting, especially great for vocals, jazz, indie, and old-school rock. While it may not offer extreme precision, it excels in musicality and emotional warmth, making long sessions an absolute pleasure.
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Thick Bass / Kickass Bass
When I say kickass bass, I’m talking about bass that slaps you right in the face—in the best way possible. It’s that visceral, chest-thumping low-end that makes you feel like you’re in the front row of a concert or a nightclub. If you’re into hip-hop, EDM, Bollywood beats, or anything with a deep groove, this is where the fun begins. 🔊💥
Here’s what’s going on technically: the low-frequency range is heavily emphasised, resulting in powerful sub-bass rumble and impactful mid-bass slam. This kind of tuning brings weight, warmth, and physicality to your music. The trade-off? It might mask some midrange detail or high-frequency sparkle—but for bassheads, the emotional payoff is more than worth it.
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Smooth & Sweet Treble
Seeking something that sounds smooth and devoid of harshness 🥰? I tend to describe these headphones as having "silk-like highs" that caress your ears rather than assault them. These products are meticulously designed to deliver high frequencies that are wonderfully gentle, offering a listening experience that's both sophisticated and delightful. Think of it like the difference between premium chocolate and cheap candy - both are sweet, but one provides refined pleasure while the other can be overwhelming.
The carefully tuned treble presentation ensures musical details come through with remarkable clarity while maintaining natural, fatigue-free character. The refined high-frequency presentation maintains excellent detail and air while avoiding any hint of harshness or stridency ✨.
When you see "🍦 Smooth & Sweet Treble" products, expect refined high frequencies that deliver crisp detail with a touch of sweetness and sophistication.
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Perfect to Layback & Relax
In my experience, a laid-back sound is like sinking into your favorite armchair after a long day. It doesn’t push details in your face or try to overwhelm you with energy. Instead, it gives your music room to breathe and unfold naturally. Think of it like sipping a glass of smooth whisky—there’s warmth, body, and ease. These headphones or IEMs are ideal for those who want to unwind and soak in a mellow vibe, whether it's a jazz trio or acoustic singer-songwriter set. 🎧
Now, what’s actually happening here is a tuning that gently rolls off the treble and offers a warm, full low-end. The midrange stays intimate, while bass adds comfort without punch, and highs avoid fatigue, making long sessions a pleasure. You won’t get maximum detail or separation—but that’s the point. It’s not about dissecting the mix—it’s about relaxing into it. For bedtime listening or just zoning out, this is your sonic hammock. 😌
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Value for Money
I've found that the best gear isn’t always the most expensive. Some products punch well above their weight and deliver performance that rivals higher-priced alternatives. That’s what we mean with the "Value for Money" badge. It’s our way of telling you that you’re getting something special without breaking the bank. 🥜
These products are all about maximum returns for minimal investment. You’re not just saving money — you’re gaining an audio experience that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s build quality, tuning, or bundled accessories, these picks overdeliver.
When you see '🥜 Value for Money' products, expect impressive performance at an affordable price, making them a smart pick for budget-conscious buyers or first-time audiophiles.
-
Ideal for Beginners
Lost in the vast world of audio equipment?
Don't worry, we're here to guide you 🤝! I believe that everyone's audiophile journey should start with something approachable and welcoming. These carefully selected products serve as the perfect entry point into high-quality sound, specifically chosen to help you navigate through sometimes overwhelming technical options. Think of them as your friendly neighbourhood guide who knows exactly where to start without getting lost in complex specifications.
These products strike an ideal balance between quality and accessibility, featuring user-friendly designs and straightforward functionality. They're specifically selected as the perfect starting point for your audiophile journey, offering serious performance without intimidating complexity or premium pricing that might discourage exploration.
When you encounter "🌱 Ideal for Beginners" products, expect approachable excellence - these are your stepping stones into the world of premium audio, designed to grow with your developing appreciation for great sound.
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Incredibly Popular
Some things deserve all the attention ⭐!
I've found that when something becomes incredibly popular in the audio world, it's usually for very good reasons. This exceptional audio gear has earned widespread popularity by consistently delivering outstanding performance that resonates with listeners across diverse preferences and experiences. Think of it like that blockbuster movie that everyone loves - sometimes, universal appeal indicates genuine quality rather than just marketing hype.
The widespread acclaim isn't just about trend or marketing - it's a testament to genuine quality and performance that has been consistently demonstrated through real-world usage. This popularity has been earned through merit, delivering reliable satisfaction to countless users 📈.
When you encounter "🥇 Incredibly Popular" products, expect proven excellence validated by the collective experience of satisfied users who've made these their go-to choice.
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Works Great with Type-C
Don't have a 3.5mm headphone jack on your phone?
No need to worry 📞 - I believe these products represent the future of seamless audio connectivity. Think of Type-C as the universal language that all modern devices are learning to speak. It's like having a master key that works with your smartphone, laptop, tablet, and practically every new device you'll buy. These headphones connect directly to your Type-C port, delivering pristine digital audio without any dongles or adapters cluttering your setup.
The direct Type-C connection ensures both convenience and optimal audio performance, maintaining the integrity of your listening experience through a clean digital signal path. You'll enjoy plug-and-play functionality with universal compatibility, eliminating those frustrating moments of searching for the right adapter.
When you encounter "📱 Works Great with Type-C" products, expect seamless connectivity with modern devices and future-proof design that grows with your tech ecosystem.
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DAC Chip
I like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device — it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.
Now, here’s what’s actually happening: a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) takes digital signals (your MP3s, FLACs, or streams) and converts them into an analog waveform your ears can enjoy. Different DAC chips — like those from ESS, AKM, or Cirrus Logic — offer their own sound signatures, levels of clarity, and noise performance. A good DAC ensures accurate timing, minimal distortion, and exceptional resolution.
When you see '⚙️ DAC Chip' products, expect: clean, detailed audio and better synergy with high-quality headphones — perfect for anyone upgrading from average sound to audiophile quality.
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Power Output
I like to think of power output in audio gear like engine horsepower, it determines how much muscle your setup really has 💪. Whether you’re trying to drive a pair of power-hungry planar headphones or just want headroom for dynamic peaks, power output is the spec you want to check first.
Technically, it refers to the amount of electrical power (measured in mW or Watts) an amp or DAC/Amp combo can deliver to your headphones. More power means better control, improved dynamics, and the ability to handle demanding gear without distortion. But more isn’t always better, too much power with sensitive IEMs can introduce hiss or harshness.
When you see '🚀 Power Output' products, expect: strong driving capability, better dynamics, and optimal performance with headphones that need serious juice to shine.
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Value for Money
I've found that the best gear isn’t always the most expensive. Some products punch well above their weight and deliver performance that rivals higher-priced alternatives. That’s what we mean with the "Value for Money" badge. It’s our way of telling you that you’re getting something special without breaking the bank. 🥜
These products are all about maximum returns for minimal investment. You’re not just saving money — you’re gaining an audio experience that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s build quality, tuning, or bundled accessories, these picks overdeliver.
When you see '🥜 Value for Money' products, expect impressive performance at an affordable price, making them a smart pick for budget-conscious buyers or first-time audiophiles.
-
Ideal for Beginners
Lost in the vast world of audio equipment?
Don't worry, we're here to guide you 🤝! I believe that everyone's audiophile journey should start with something approachable and welcoming. These carefully selected products serve as the perfect entry point into high-quality sound, specifically chosen to help you navigate through sometimes overwhelming technical options. Think of them as your friendly neighbourhood guide who knows exactly where to start without getting lost in complex specifications.
These products strike an ideal balance between quality and accessibility, featuring user-friendly designs and straightforward functionality. They're specifically selected as the perfect starting point for your audiophile journey, offering serious performance without intimidating complexity or premium pricing that might discourage exploration.
When you encounter "🌱 Ideal for Beginners" products, expect approachable excellence - these are your stepping stones into the world of premium audio, designed to grow with your developing appreciation for great sound.
-
Incredibly Popular
Some things deserve all the attention ⭐!
I've found that when something becomes incredibly popular in the audio world, it's usually for very good reasons. This exceptional audio gear has earned widespread popularity by consistently delivering outstanding performance that resonates with listeners across diverse preferences and experiences. Think of it like that blockbuster movie that everyone loves - sometimes, universal appeal indicates genuine quality rather than just marketing hype.
The widespread acclaim isn't just about trend or marketing - it's a testament to genuine quality and performance that has been consistently demonstrated through real-world usage. This popularity has been earned through merit, delivering reliable satisfaction to countless users 📈.
When you encounter "🥇 Incredibly Popular" products, expect proven excellence validated by the collective experience of satisfied users who've made these their go-to choice.
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Our Team's Favourite
Cause after all, we are audiophiles first 🎧!
In my experience, when our entire team gets excited about something, you know it's genuinely exceptional. This audio gear has captured the hearts and minds of our seasoned experts, distinguishing itself as a standout favourite among people who test hundreds of products every year. Think of it like getting a unanimous recommendation from a panel of audio critics - when everyone agrees, you pay attention.
These selections have not only met but exceeded our rigorous standards, earning enthusiastic endorsement from our audio specialists who've tested everything from budget options to flagship models. When you choose these products, you're selecting gear that has been thoroughly vetted and passionately embraced by genuine experts 🏆.
When you choose "💙 Our Team's Favourite" products, expect expertly vetted excellence backed by genuine enthusiasm from people who live and breathe audio every day.
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DAC Chip
I like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device — it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.
Now, here’s what’s actually happening: a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) takes digital signals (your MP3s, FLACs, or streams) and converts them into an analog waveform your ears can enjoy. Different DAC chips — like those from ESS, AKM, or Cirrus Logic — offer their own sound signatures, levels of clarity, and noise performance. A good DAC ensures accurate timing, minimal distortion, and exceptional resolution.
When you see '⚙️ DAC Chip' products, expect: clean, detailed audio and better synergy with high-quality headphones — perfect for anyone upgrading from average sound to audiophile quality.
-
Power Output
I like to think of power output in audio gear like engine horsepower, it determines how much muscle your setup really has 💪. Whether you’re trying to drive a pair of power-hungry planar headphones or just want headroom for dynamic peaks, power output is the spec you want to check first.
Technically, it refers to the amount of electrical power (measured in mW or Watts) an amp or DAC/Amp combo can deliver to your headphones. More power means better control, improved dynamics, and the ability to handle demanding gear without distortion. But more isn’t always better, too much power with sensitive IEMs can introduce hiss or harshness.
When you see '🚀 Power Output' products, expect: strong driving capability, better dynamics, and optimal performance with headphones that need serious juice to shine.
-
Ideal for Beginners
Lost in the vast world of audio equipment?
Don't worry, we're here to guide you 🤝! I believe that everyone's audiophile journey should start with something approachable and welcoming. These carefully selected products serve as the perfect entry point into high-quality sound, specifically chosen to help you navigate through sometimes overwhelming technical options. Think of them as your friendly neighbourhood guide who knows exactly where to start without getting lost in complex specifications.
These products strike an ideal balance between quality and accessibility, featuring user-friendly designs and straightforward functionality. They're specifically selected as the perfect starting point for your audiophile journey, offering serious performance without intimidating complexity or premium pricing that might discourage exploration.
When you encounter "🌱 Ideal for Beginners" products, expect approachable excellence - these are your stepping stones into the world of premium audio, designed to grow with your developing appreciation for great sound.
-
Incredibly Popular
Some things deserve all the attention ⭐!
I've found that when something becomes incredibly popular in the audio world, it's usually for very good reasons. This exceptional audio gear has earned widespread popularity by consistently delivering outstanding performance that resonates with listeners across diverse preferences and experiences. Think of it like that blockbuster movie that everyone loves - sometimes, universal appeal indicates genuine quality rather than just marketing hype.
The widespread acclaim isn't just about trend or marketing - it's a testament to genuine quality and performance that has been consistently demonstrated through real-world usage. This popularity has been earned through merit, delivering reliable satisfaction to countless users 📈.
When you encounter "🥇 Incredibly Popular" products, expect proven excellence validated by the collective experience of satisfied users who've made these their go-to choice.
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Flat Sound Signature
I tend to describe a flat sound signature as the “studio monitor” of headphones—what goes in is what comes out. 🎚️ There’s no added flavour or colouration; it’s a true-to-source representation. Audiophiles and sound engineers who value neutrality and precision often gravitate toward this kind of tuning.
Here’s what’s actually happening: the entire frequency response is tuned to be as even as possible, so bass, mids, and treble are all balanced without any emphasis. This makes flat-sounding gear ideal for critical listening, mixing, or mastering, where accuracy matters more than excitement. But for casual listeners, it might feel a bit “boring.” That said, a well-done flat tuning can reveal the soul of a song like no other. 🎧
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Sharp & Precise Details
Are you a lover of sharp and precise details 🔍?
I believe that detail retrieval is like having audio superpowers - suddenly, you hear things in familiar songs that you never knew existed. These premium headphones are meticulously engineered to deliver remarkably detailed and precise sound reproduction, capturing every subtle nuance with exceptional accuracy. Think of them like high-resolution cameras for your ears that reveal the finest textures and micro-details that most headphones simply miss.
The carefully tuned drivers and advanced acoustic design ensure even the most delicate musical elements are reproduced with stunning precision. From the gentle brush of a cymbal to the subtle resonance of acoustic instruments, these products capture and present every sonic detail with remarkable accuracy 🎯.
When you see "📌 Sharp & Precise Details" products, expect extraordinary detail resolution that reveals new layers in familiar recordings with stunning clarity and precision.
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Layered and Nuanced Sound
Imagine sitting in the second row of a grand music hall 🎼, where each instrument's placement creates a vivid sonic landscape before you. I believe these headphones recreate that precise spatial positioning, allowing you to distinctly perceive where each instrument would be on an imaginary stage. Think of it like watching an orchestra conductor - you can follow each section independently while appreciating how they work together in perfect harmony. The layered presentation ensures every element occupies its own distinct space while contributing to the whole.
This audio equipment creates a detailed listening experience where musical notes, overtones, and reverberations shine through clearly, keeping complex passages distinct and well-separated. The tuning excels at revealing subtle interplay between instruments and the natural ambiance of recording spaces 🎯.
When you see "🍰 Layered and Nuanced Sound" products, expect intricate soundscapes that reveal the depth, complexity, and artistry in your favorite music with exceptional clarity.
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Perfect to Analyse Music
Delve deeper into intricate musical layers 🎼!
I believe that some headphones are like musical microscopes - they reveal details and nuances that most people never even know exist in their favourite songs. These specialised audio tools are meticulously engineered for those who seek to explore the deepest intricacies of sound, offering exceptional precision for detailed music analysis. Think of them as detective tools for music that help you uncover every hidden element in complex compositions.
These products enable you to dissect and examine every aspect of the musical landscape, from subtle instrument textures to precise timing, from delicate vocal overtones to intricate harmonic layering. They're specifically crafted for musicians, producers, and discerning audiophiles who desire profound insights into technical and artistic elements 🔬.
When you encounter "🔍 Perfect to Analyse Music" products, expect analytical precision that reveals layers of detail and musical craftsmanship you never knew existed.
Intro
In today's video we're doing a complete audiophile grade headphone system
build for under a budget of 20,000 rupees. Now you'll find that for a budget of
20,000 rupees you have some incredible Headphones and IEMs which are
available but very often we'll ask you to add a dongle DAC a Headphone
Amplifier maybe a balanced cable to bring out the most of your IEMs or your
Headphones and that adds to the components and the cost of the overall
system, but we get so many people who are saying - Hey raghav we have a
particular budget in mind and for this what setup would you recommend -
which is an all-in-one setup that sounds very very good. So we're taking a
budget of 20,000 rupees which I think is a very generous budget and moving
backwards from there to figure out what the best sounding setups are with the
complete setup falling within the budget of 20,000 rupees. And we've got five
setups today all of which sound incredible and all of them very very different
from each other. Two of them feature IEMs and are portable setups that you
can listen anywhere and three of them feature headphones so this is going to
get quite interesting today because all these setups sound very good and are
very different and hopefully one of them is the perfect one for you let's get
started.
Setup 1
All right guys the first setup today is a complete IEM setup and I've taken the
vast majority of the budget and I'm spending it on getting a really really nice
sounding IEM and my favourite IEM that falls within the bucket is this the
1Custom Junior. It's an incredible IEM and it costs 15,999. So out of a total
budget of 20,000 rupees I've already used most of the budget in getting a
phenomenal sounding IEM and I'll tell you why this is a good decision because
this is not just like any other IEM it sounds phenomenal for the price. I don't
think I know of any other IEM that I enjoy as much as the 1Custom Junior.
1Custom is a boutique brand, it's not one that makes too many different
products so they're not very popular. This particular IEM has a three driver
hybrid configuration a dynamic driver for the bass and two balanced armatures
for the mids and highs and what's very interesting is that it comes with these
dip switches on the earbud and by pulling up and down these switches you can
change the sound signature a little bit and I use it on a very neutral balanced
sound signature which sounds superb but you can make it a little bit more fun
and engaging as well by changing the switches up and down. It becomes one of
the best sounding IEMs I have in this budget now that leaves me with a budget
of 4000 Rupees to get a dongle DAC and Amp and that's no problem because
I'm gonna pick the Shanling UA1s which is for 4,299. It’s not very expensive
dongle DAC, it's got a 3.5 mm balanced output and I'm using the 1Custom
Juniors 3.5 mm cable and plugging that into it the UA1s. The UA1s comes with a
detachable USB cable, so you can use it with a USB-C to USB-C connector to
use along with an Android smartphone. It's a plug and play device and you're
good to go or you can get yourself a USB-C to Lightning cable specifically for
iOS devices and with that ladies and gentlemen for a grand total of 20,298
rupees a complete audiophile grade IEM setup. IEM, DAC and Amp included in
all in one setup. Now I know that this is not a setup that follows conventional
logic for dividing the budget but I find that the 1Custom Junior already sounds
so good that even if I go for a better DAC and Amp with a relatively inexpensive
IEM I'm not finding myself finding an IEM that beats this system. Also the
1Custom Junior doesn't necessarily benefit from having a fancier upgrade cable
or anything of the sort. This system just works and for 20,000 rupees it's one of
my favourite IEM systems there.
Setup 2
Okay ladies and gentlemen setup number two and this one is from FiiO. The IEM
is from FiiO, the dongle DAC is from FiiO. It's a portable setup that's an IEM
system for a budget of 20,000 rupees and one that follows a slightly more
conventional thinking but gives you a really really nice sounding output and
you'll find that this is very very popular for that reason. Now the dongle DAC
that I'm going with is the FiiO KA3, this is really really nice powerful dongle
DAC. It features a 3.5 mm output as well as a 4.4 mm balanced output and it's
for a price of rupees 6,999. For under 7,000 rupees so I think there's a
reasonable chunk of the budget that's going towards the DAC and Amp and
you'll find that because it has the 4.4 mm balanced output we definitely want to
take advantage of that. So we want to make sure that whatever IEMs we're
using we use a balanced cable to go along with it and that brings me to my IEM
of choice. This is the FiiO FD3 Pro now for those of you who know the few
naming convention the FD3 should immediately tell you that this is featuring a
single dynamic driver. It's a phenomenal beryllium coated dynamic driver. It
sounds very very nice, it comes with detachable upgrade cables but what's
very very interesting is that the FD3 pro for a price of 11,999 rupees also
features a balanced cable which comes with a 4.4 mm termination so you save
quite a bit of money and not having to go and get yourself an extra upgrade
cable which would potentially cost you two three thousand rupees. It's there in
the box and therefore you'll find that this makes for an ideal system when
paired with along with the FiiO KA3. We simply plug it into the 4.4 mm output
on the KA3 and now you have a balanced DAC and Amp, a balanced cable
connected to your IEMs and for a grand total of 18,900 rupees you've now got a
phenomenal setup which is well within the budget of 20,000 rupees. It sounds
very very nice, it's fully balanced, upgradable and it's a very popular setup for
this price bucket and therefore it has to feature on my list for the best
audiophile setups for a budget of 20,000 rupees.
Setup 3
All right guys setup number three and this one is featuring a full-sized
headphone. So you'll find that the budget of 20,000 rupees now you've got
some really really nice sounding headphone options as well as IEMs and one of
my favourite headphones in this price bucket is the Meze 99 Neo. Meze is a
beautiful brand from Romania and you'll find the Meze 99 Neo is their entry
level headphone offering. It's priced at rupees 15,999, so I'm taking a good
chunk of this budget and spending it on just getting a great sounding
headphone. The Mezze 99 Neo is a gorgeous headphone it's been around for a
while you'll find it sounds really nice, a little warm and little laid back but makes
for a fun listen to. It's a closed back headphone that isn't super hard to drive,
you don't need gigantic amplifiers to drive this and for that reason you'll find
that this is a great sounding headphone that you can actually use on the go and
listen to with your smartphone. You don't have to be listening to this on a
desktop setup sitting at home although if you do that, they sound great too but
this is pretty portable so it's a little bit of best of both world. It's a full-size
headphone and at the same time it's portable and easy to carry like IEMs and
for that reason you find that it's a very very special headphone for the price.
Now having spent 15,999 on this headphone I am now left with a budget of four
thousand rupees for my DAC and Amp and lucky for us the Meze 99 Neo is not
very hard to drive, so my choice of a dongle that go along with this is this one
right here. It’s super lightweight, super portable, this is the brand new iFi Audio
Go Link. It's one of my favourite dongle DAC at this price segment. It's priced at
4,999 and you'll find that it's one of those DACs that works virtually with every
headphone or IEM that you plug into it. It sound fun interesting and very very
revealing, very very detailed. Now you'll find that it's got a simple 3.5 mm
output so you don't need fancy upgrade cables. The 3.5 mm cable that comes
with the Meze 99 Neo can simply plug into it and you've now got complete
system. On the other end this has got a very very unique adapter which allows
you to use with USB-C with your Android phone and with a lightning port with
your iOS devices so you'll find that for the price you get the versatility of using
this with lightning as well as USB-C so you can use it with your iOS devices
your Android devices and I don't think there's any other DAC in this price
bucket that does that so for a grand total of 20,998, just a little bit over the
20,000 rupee price bucket that we had set, you get a complete portable or
desktop closed back headphone setup using the Meze 99 Neo and the iFi Audio
Go Link. I don't mind going over that budget just a little bit because I believe
that this adapter that you get for use with lightning makes it worth its while. You
don't have to go and get another cable or another adapter specifically to use
with your iOS devices and therefore I would say that this is probably my
favourite headphone recommendation in this bucket.
Setup 4
All right ladies and gentlemen setup number four today is a very very popular
setup. I have with me a full sized open back headphone from Beyerdynamic,
this is the very very popular DT990 Pro. You'll find that the 990 Pro along with
its closed back brother the 770 Pro, you'll find them in virtually every studio
everywhere around the world for the last 35 years. They're all handmade in
Germany, they're super popular among studio professionals and musicians alike
and they've been around forever because they're just that good. It's an industry
standard - the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro is so popular that even audiophiles
swear by the fact that as an open back headphone at a price of 11,999 there is
virtually nothing else like it in the market so it has to be a part of our list today
for a budget of 20,000 rupees. If you're going to take 11,999 and spend it on
the headphone you think you should have a reasonable budget left for the DAC
and Amp but this is going to get a little tricky because what I haven't told you is
yet is that the Beyerdynamic DT990 pros come with 250 ohms of impedance
which means that these are really really hard to drive. You need a powerful
amplifier to get these to sound good. Now that's usually not a problem when
you're in the studio, you've got tons of equipment that's capable of driving a
250 ohms headphone and that's really who this headphone was made for but at
home us audiophiles don't have amplifiers and equipment just lying around that
we can plug our headphone into, which is why it's really really important that
we take the remaining budget and spend it on getting ourselves a DAC and a
Headphone Amp that's capable of driving something with 250 ohms and that's
exactly what's led me to the Topping DX1. This is a phenomenal device that
looks really really tiny but is really really powerful. It's priced at rupees 8,999 so
you'll find that it fits pretty much within the budget that we have left. DX1
connects to your computer via USB, you'll find that it doesn't need an external
power supply - the USB cable from your laptop should be able to power this up
and you find that on High Gain mode and there's a gain switch right at the back
you can plug your DT990 Pro into the 6.35 mm output in front, crank up the
volume and it's more than capable of driving it and it's pretty much a match
made in heaven. You'll find that the pairing between the DT990 Pro 250 ohms
and the DX1 sounds pretty pretty good and I don't think I can think of any other
DAC and Amp with this budget that is able to power the DT990 pro so
effortlessly and sounds phenomenal. Now keep in mind that the 990 Pro does
not have detachable cables so there's no reason for you to go around
upgrading to balance cables and using a balanced DAC and Amp. None of that
is required and that's perfectly fine because the DX1 is a no-fills device that
just does its job of powering a full-size headphone to its full potential and
giving you a really nice clean output from the DAC. It just works and for a total
of 20,998 rupees, just a little bit over that bucket of 20,000 rupees this is a
complete headphone system headphone DAC and Amp included for 20,998. I
know it's a little over budget but there's literally nothing else that works with
the DT990 Pro and therefore I don't mind adding this to our list today.
Setup 5
All right guys our fifth setup today is another open back headphone. This is not
as popular as the Beyerdynamic - this is Grado SR80x from the US. The Grados
sound very very different from the Beyerydnamics. They are far more forward,
they are punchier, it's an open back headphone but it's an on-ear headphone. It
doesn't sit over your ears the way Beyerdynamics do and this is not designed
for the studio. This is designed for giving you a rocking good time when you're
listening to music. It's such a fun sounding headphone, the build quality is
going to be nowhere near the Beyerdynamics but you'll find nonetheless they
are very very durable. They should last you a long long time and the SR80x is
from the updated X Series that adds a little bit more low end and punch to the
Grados and therefore I have to recommend this when it comes to open back
headphones in this budget. The Grado SR80x is priced at 13,999 so they're a
little bit more expensive than the Beyerdynamics and what that means is that
we have a little lesser budget available for the DAC and Amp so I can't add the
topping DX1 in this particular combination, in this particular setup and I'm going
to go with the iFi Audio Uno which is another pretty small, pretty compact but
desktop DAC and Amp that has a very simple 3.5 mm output that you can plug
the Grados into and you'll find that with that it becomes a complete audiophile
setup. The DAC and Amp is the iFi Audio Uno - the headphones is the Grados
this is priced at 13,999 so for the exactly the same price as the previous setup
20,999 you now have a full setup but one that sounds very very different.
Between the Beyerdynamicl I don't have an easy way to help you pick between
the two setups the Beyerdynamic is the more neutral reference sounding open
back headphone. The Grado is the more fun forward, exciting rocking out kind
of headphone and you'll find with the iFi Audio Uno it sounds just fine. You've
got a couple of EQ settings on the iFi Audio Uno which I love playing around
with so this is a little bit more fun - that's a little bit more serious. That's pretty
much the only way I can help you pick between these two setups.
Conclusion
All right guys that's five of my favourite setups for a complete audiophile grade
headphone system for a total budget of 20,000 rupees that I've described to
you two of them are IEM setups and of course IEMS are going to give you great
value for money if you're looking at a headphone system that you want to carry
with you everywhere use something on the go the Meze 99 Neo - one of my
favourite headphones is a full sized headphone that you can use on the go,
they're not very hard to drive and it'll sound great and you've got two desktop
grade full-sized headphone systems with a desktop DAC and Amp that are also
over here the Grados as well as the Beyerdynamics and with these five setups I
think you're going to get phenomenal value for money for under 20,000 rupees
and you can't really go wrong with it and if you use this as a little bit of a rule of
thumb I'm sure you'll be able to come up with enough combinations that you
can build for the same kind of a headphone system within the budget of your
picking and you'll invariably find that these five systems are just a starting point
for you in this Hobby and you can go on and on experimenting with different
combinations to pick out the right combination that works for you. Thank you
so much I hope you found this video useful and I look forward to catching you
on the next one
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