As per my previous post, I asked the question. It seems this is a known thing as other posts have indicated. It takes a while for the suspension of the speakers to settle in; also as note, it also takes a while for the listener to get used to the sound of the new speakers. This also applies to high quality headphones and possibly ear buds allegedly, but me being a cynic it might just be sales speak!
If you like the sound what does it matter? Years back when I was really 'into' HiFi shops would have a listening room, but I considered this unrealistic as it was filled with many speakers not at all like a home environment.
Just my thoughts.
Cheers

I'm very much 'old school' with my audio kit.
I'm still using a Pioneer 6CD stack system bought in 1988. I added surround sound speakers and have plumbed my TV through them as well. It never gets played over 1/3rd of it's volume capability as I reckon it would blow the double glazed windows out of my wee bungalow. Headphone wise I am super happy with my Bose noise-cancelling ones which provide a superb sound

Well you did ask!

@BobB

If you are looking for a couple of mid-fi recommendations (I'm no audiophile), I can suggest these 2 as good value examples in their class.

AKG K371 - A sealed back over the ear with quite good bass. This pair was $240 Australian

Sennheiser HD560S An open back design with fair bass and a IMO a balanced sound. These were $279 Australian.
I've been a Sennheiser user since the '70s and I keep coming back to them after trying others such as Grado, Shure and Beyer.

A couple of reviews:

AKG K371 https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/akg-k371-review-closed-back-headphone.19657/

Sennheiser HD560S https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/sennheiser-hd560s-review-headphone.29603/

I haven't even tried anything more higher priced than these for many years.

PS. I do use a DAC/headphone amp, a Topping DX3Pro+ with optical from the disc player and usb from the PC.
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-dx3-pro-review-dac-headphone-amp.27148/

Hope you find what you are happy with.

Cheers,
Mark

Eli listened to her intimate friend's words with rapt attention, her bright blue eyes reflecting a mix of admiration and understanding. As Sylvia finished speaking, Eli leaned back in her chair, a thoughtful expression on her face.

"Wow", she finally said, her voice filled with genuine respect. "You've really thought this through, haven't you, Sylvie? It's not just about finding a partner, but a companion for life's adventures, a future Lord Trevelver. Someone who can match your spirit and resilience. A true partner."

She paused; her gaze thoughtful. "I think it's wonderful that you know what you want. And I have no doubt that you'll find it, if you haven't already, with Jeremy! After all, you're one of the most determined people I know."

Eli's reaction was one of support and encouragement, reflecting the depth of their friendship and her belief in her friend's journey. It was clear that she respected Sylvie's clarity and determination in seeking a partner who could truly complement her adventurous spirit and resilient nature. Her response was a testament to their shared values and the strength of their friendship. It was clear that her friend's words had not only been heard but deeply understood and appreciated.

With a thoughtful nod, Sylvia concurred with Eli's summary. "Eli, as my dearest friend, I'm very interested to hear your perspective. What do you believe are the secrets to a truly successful and lasting relationship?"

"Sylvie, you know how much I value our friendship. I think being open and honest is the main thing in a good relationship. We should be able to share our real feelings, hopes, and worries with our partner in a kind way."

"A wise point. And trust, I would imagine, is equally vital?" asked Sylvia. "Without profound trust, even the most artful communicators would struggle to forge an intimate bond."

Eli nodded. "Exactly. Trusting and respecting each other's limits, individuality, and choices helps a relationship grow. It's better to appreciate our differences instead of trying to change them."

Sylvia smiled. "Yet even with excellent communication and deep trust, a relationship requires devotion of quality time together, does it not? Nurturing the partnership through shared experiences and memories."

"Yes, it really does, my dearest friend. We need to constantly make the time and effort. But we also need to be patient because every relationship faces difficult times. We need to understand that with kindness and understanding, we can work through problems together."

"Beautiful sentiments, Eli. And, of course, emotional intimacy intertwined with passion allows that profound connection to burn ever brighter. Yet we mustn't neglect our own boundaries and needs for personal growth outside the relationship."

"You're absolutely right, Sylvie. A good relationship is about being close, but also giving each other room to grow. It's a balance of being together and being independent."

"Thank you for sharing your insights, Eli. Woven through with wisdom about the importance of shared values, conflict resolution, and supporting one another's dreams. Truly the secrets to an incredible, unbreakable bond between two souls."

Time seemed to slow, tempering the rhythmic ticking and gentle chimes of the tambour-style clock on the mantlepiece, while the fire crackled softly in the background.

A sly smile played over Sylvia's lips as she nodded thoughtfully. "Mastering all the different elements involved is like choreographing a complex dance. He must gradually share personal stories and ambitions to reveal new layers of himself over time. At the same time, he should develop new interests and skills to add depth and make his character more captivating", she said.

She continued, her eyes meeting Eli's with a meaningful look. "It's definitely complex, but also very rewarding." She grinned.

"I agree, Sylvie. This behaviour indicates that a man is in control of his surroundings and intentionally decides when and how to share information about himself. We do want them to work hard, don't we!" Eli laughed.

"Being flexible in how he thinks and acts, entertaining different perspectives, and adjusting his approach based on the situation all enhance his attractiveness. When he strategically chooses what to communicate, it creates an intriguing sense of mystery that sparks curiosity. Sharing personal details in small doses is attractive, but revealing ambitions, past experiences, and insights gradually over time maintains that alluring mystery. A man with diverse interests and skills is also incredibly intriguing and engaging.

Eli smiled in agreement, "Yes, it's not just about what you share, but also how and when you share it."

Sylvia replied, "Yes, strategic silence can be so powerful, can't it? Sometimes saying less creates an aura of mystery that really keeps the other person captivated and wanting to learn more."

They both smiled, understanding the power of strategic communication and the allure of mystery, both personally and professionally.

Intrigue laced Eli's words, "So, it's not just about being unpredictable and mysterious, but creating an experience that entrances one's whole being – a true artistic seduction of the senses and imagination."

Sylvia's smile broadened with delight at Eli's understanding. She agreed with conviction, "Precisely! With innovative planning, creative problem-solving, adaptability, strategic self-revelation, and cultivation of talents, a man doesn't just showcase his multifaceted personality but crafts a vibrant atmosphere. A true master weaves these elements into an invigorating, unpredictable dance that fosters ever-deeper intimacy. Handling challenges in unique and effective ways demonstrates his resourcefulness. And adaptability to change is vital – life is unpredictable, so a man who can adapt is reliable and stable. Through these actions, he creates a vibrant cocktail of interactions that keep the relationship exciting and unpredictable, fostering a deeper, more engaging connection."

I think burn in happens both ways.

The equipment settles in and the listener get accustomed to the sound. 

Mark

Curiosity tinged Eli's question, "Sylvie, as a woman and as a Trevelver, a future Lady of Trevelver Castle and future Queen of the Karadow, what qualities do you find most attractive in a man?"

Thoughtfully, Sylvia replied, "That's a very good question, Eli. Regardless of how you look at it, the one quality that is most important to me is resourcefulness."

Intrigue laced Eli's voice, "Resourcefulness?"

Sylvia nodded emphatically, "Yes. This is all about a man's ability to adapt and protect, not just in the physical sense but also when navigating life's complexities."

Her brown eyes took on a warm glow as she shared her thoughts, "I'm drawn to a man with an adventurous spirit, one who can think innovatively to create solutions and seize opportunities. I value self-sufficiency and the ability to take on challenges, meaning a partner who can navigate unforeseen circumstances with grace. It's not about material wealth – as a Trevelver and a partner in our agency, I already have enough. What attracts me is his spirit of resilience, his talent for problem-solving, and his ability to use his skills, intelligence, and creativity to thrive in any situation. Such a man can provide stability, enrich our journey together with excitement, and give our relationship lasting depth and resilience. This indicates a shared adventure towards an enticing future," she concluded, her voice taking on a dreamier lilt.

With an interested tone, Eli nodded understandingly and said, "That sounds quite comprehensive. So, you value a man with emotional depth as well as practical abilities. I see. It's not just about man, the provider and protector."

Smiling, Sylvia explained emphatically, "Precisely. I'm captivated by a man's emotional intelligence – his self-awareness, empathy, and ability to connect intimately.

Curiosity tinged Eli's question again, "So, how can a man use his resourcefulness to keep things exciting and unpredictable, and keep some mystery alive?"

Sylvia's expression became contemplative, her dark eyes shining with the spark of imagination. "A truly resourceful man can captivate by weaving an aura of dynamic unpredictability. He engages in creative planning to craft unique, tailored experiences that surprise and delight. His innovative problem-solving skills are like a talented artist's brush, adeptly handling any challenge with flair."

She continued, her voice taking on a husky allure, "He also embraces adaptability with a sense of daring adventure. Change doesn't rattle him, but instead stokes his passion for transforming each situation into something extraordinarily special."

Leaning closer, Eli stated, "It seems he needs to adopt an approach that is both complex and varied."

I asked Fran about this at the recent NEC show and he, reluctantly, said there had been no further progress on N scale so far, since the original statement.

He did say that it was still in the future plans, but nothing current.