Iphone -> Audioquest Dragonfly Red -> Hifiman Ananda

I upgraded the Apple camera adapter to this and it made a significant improvement just fyi.

https://www.lavricables.com/cables/reference-silver-lightning-interconnect-cable-for-oppo-ha-2-centrance-mini-m8/

How do you like the bass response of the Ananda? I have the Edition XS and I enjoy the sound for the most part. Bass is great although it does lack a bit of texture. My issue with them is the head band is horrendous so I’ve been thinking about switching to the Ananda or the Arya.

I really like the Ananda sound and imo it's the sweet spot between cost and quality.

Thanks I’ve been leaning towards the Ananda Stealth.

For anyone interested in the Ananda, Keep your eyes open for bargains. The HiFiMan stuff goes on sale regularly. I bought a pair of Anandas a few years ago for about 60% off retail, direct from them. They do sound great but seem a little shy on bass. They are competing with my Sennheiser 6XX phones. Hard to decide which is better. That said. I use my Sennheiser Momentum 4's most of the time when I'm walking. the bass on the Momentums blows the other 2 away. Even when I EQ the 4's and raise the bass, it still hits really hard.

The bass was my concern. The Edition XS have great bass but the headband is a joke. I hear what you’re saying with the Momentum’s, I have a pair of 3’s and the bass is insane. A bit much for me at times but really fun for certain genres.

@chrshanl37 I’ve had the Arya Stealths for over three years and really like them. Very neutral and natural with nice out-of-the-head soundstaging. The bass isn’t overly hard hitting (I hear the newer Organic is better with that) but it’s definitely there and it’s quick with good tone and texture and the overall sound is very balanced. And they’re as comfortable as all get out — I can wear them for hours with no fatigue or discomfort and they’re nice and light. I’m a little miffed I paid $1200 3.5 years ago and now they’re half that, but my loss could be your gain I guess. I have no idea how they compare to the Anandas.  If you haven’t already check the reviews at stereonews.net as he’s done good reviews on many Hifiman headphones. 

@soix  thank you for your response that is very helpful. The bass you described in the Arya is what I’m looking for. That helps me with my decision and as you say the prices have come down dramatically so the cost to step up to the Arya is negligible. 
I will be driving them with a Leben cs 300 XS.

@chrshanl37 it sounds like you’re headed towards the Arya from the Edition XS. I purchased the Capra Audio comfort strap for my Edition XS which has been a game changer for comfort - no more hot spot on the top of my head. If anything, link may be useful for other members considering the Edition XS. Best $20 I’ve spent in audio so far.

Yes I think I am however I’ll probably keep the Edition XS considering what they are going for on the used market and will look into the strap you suggested, Thank you for the recommendation.

@chrshanl37  The Arya Stealths are great, but if it’s at all possible I’d recommend stepping up to the Arya Organics that are actually close in performance to the HE1000SE, which is a big step up for only an extra $275 IMO.   Read the review of the Organics on stereonews.net if you haven’t, but if you can’t swing them I’m sure you’re gonna be really happy with the Stealths — I’ve got no itch to upgrade after 3.5 years.  Out of curiosity, what amp will you be driving them with?  I’m using a Singxer SA1 Class A amp and it’s a really great pairing.  

I have a Leben CS 300 XS in my second system that I also use for headphone listening. But I mostly listen to headphones when I travel for work and I have a Woo Audio Topaz for that. My apologies @carl292 I didn’t mean to hijack your thread. Thanks @soix for your suggestions much appreciated!

Maybe try an iFi HipDac 3. Fully balanced, and it has its own battery so your phone won’t be hollering !uncle!  Decodes everything (PCM 24/384, native DSD, MQA) right from your phone with the included cord. Burr Brown chipset. USB-C.  Plays nice with your home rig. About the size of a small flask. 2 bills. Happy Listening!

I had a similar experience as the original post with iPhone, AQ Dragonfly Cobalt and (now discontinued) wired Sennheiser Momentum headphones.  It convinced me that I needed a new DAC in my main system . . . and subsequent upgrades as well.  But yes, how can a miniature device such as the Dragonfly sound so good?