Need to build a headphone system

Given what you’re looking for I’d highly recommend the Hifiman HE1000 SE and the Quicksilver tube headphone amp.  The HE1000 SE rivals their $6000 Susvara headphones but are MUCH easier to drive and can be had for only $2799 ($700 discount) from their open box section on their site (I bought both my ‘phones from there and couldn’t tell them from brand new).  The Quicksilver amp can be had for only $1198 and is a huge value and would be a great pairing with the HE1000 SEs. So for $4000 you could have an awesome HeadFi system that rivals the best.  Here are a couple reviews FWIW…

https://soundnews.net/headphones/full-size/hifiman-he1000se-review-how-high-hifiman/

https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/quicksilver-audio-headphone-class-a-triode-transformer-coupled-single-ended.25701/

Best of luck

I’ve been to Audio46.  It’s pretty small — not surprising being in NYC — but they have good stuff and the people are nice and accommodating if you wanna listen to stuff.  And their prices are competitive if u wanna buy.  Great HeadFi resource to have and you should definitely go.  Just make sure they have something you’d like to listen to available to demo if there’s something specific you’re looking for.  Of course street parking is a challenge so be prepared to pay for garage parking.  

Bring your own music and headphone amp/DAC if you can as it’ll help you get the most out of your visit.  Definitely listen to the Hifiman HE1000SE or at least the HE1000v2 if they’re available.  I own the Arya Stealths and I’d recommend listening to them too, but by all accounts they aren’t at the level of the HE1000 models although I’m quite happy with them driven by a Singxer SA-1 amp and Musician Pegasus R2R NOS DAC.  FWIW…

BTW, I’d recommend using one of these parking services to secure a spot in a parking garage as it’s highly unlikely you’ll find street parking in that area.  Check both as they cover different parking venues so one might get you closer or give a better price.  Have fun!
https://www.bestparking.com/new-york-ny-parking/neighborhoods/new-york-city-parking/

https://www.park-whiz.com/p/new-york-city-parking/

Audio46 was not much help.  Bus have been a low point in their stocking cycle, and they are not going to open boxes of hi-end cams just for a listen (which I understand).

I don’t understand.  What does this mean?  If brick n mortar stores are failing to meet your needs, the hell with them and just start buying ‘phones you’re interested in online with generous trial/return periods, whether it’s Amazon or direct from the manufacturers, and just do that.  That should be doable.  I’m sorry Audio46 was a fail.