18/03/2026 10:12 pm
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Im looking to upgrade my home audio setup because Ive been getting into high-res FLAC files lately. Im based in Oregon and mostly just listen in my quiet office so I dont really need noise cancelling. I keep seeing the WH-1000XM5 recommended everywhere online but then some audiophile blogs say the MDR-Z7M2 is way better for actual detail since its wired. My budget is around $600 and I want something that wont hurt my ears after long sessions. Does the wireless tech in the XM5 mess with the high-res quality compared to a dedicated wired pair like the Z7M2? Which Sony model actually delivers the best sound for just sitting still and listening?
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18/03/2026 10:13 pm
Unfortunately, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones didnt live up to the hype for critical listening. I had issues with wireless compression masking the fine details in FLAC files; its not as good as expected for high-res. You should get the Sony MDR-Z7M2 Hi-Res Stereo Wired Headphones instead. Those massive 70mm drivers provide the transparency and comfort you need for long sessions in a quiet office.
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18/03/2026 10:27 pm
Saw this earlier but just now responding. You might want to consider the Sony MDR-MV1 Open-Back Reference Monitor Headphones for your office. Theyre open-back which is amazing for detail, but be careful because everyone nearby will hear your music. I would also suggest the Sony MDR-1AM2 Wired High-Resolution Overhead Headphones if you want something lighter. Wired beats wireless for those FLACs, just make sure to use a decent DAC.
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18/03/2026 11:17 pm
Like someone mentioned, wired is definitely the way to go for detail, but the signal chain is basically just as important as the headphones. Before suggesting anything specific, I have a couple technical questions:
- What specific DAC or amp are you using to drive your gear?
- Do you prefer a neutral frequency response or something more colored? Matching output impedance is gonna be key for that clarity... dont want to recommend something your setup cant handle.
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23/05/2026 9:27 pm
Honestly, I went through this exact same internal debate a couple years ago when I started collecting FLACs. I tried the high-end wireless route first because I loved the idea of moving around my office, but I eventually got so tired of the battery dying right when a good album started... it was just annoying. I switched to a solid wired setup for my desk and I have been incredibly satisfied with it ever since. The reliability is really what sold me. Like, I just plug them into my setup and it works perfectly every single time, no firmware updates or pairing issues to deal with. My current gear has been running strong for years without a single hiccup, and there is something really nice about knowing your hardware isnt gonna be obsolete in a few years because the internal battery gave out. Wired just feels way more permanent and trustworthy for a serious home setup, ya know? I dont even think about the tech anymore, I just enjoy the music.
