My LS970 magically stopped receiving 4g due to a "hardware" error when my contract ran out, so now I am looking for a new phone.
I really want an M8, it seems to be the best phone in terms of proper functionality. However I have two options:
I can get the Vanilla M8 for ~$40 or the M8 Harmon/Kardon for $100.
From what I've heard, all of the differences might only be software based EQ adjustments and a modified DSP... however I also heard that the Harmon/Kardon features "Custom amps for the front speakers" and a higher quality DAC.
I've actually just picked up some ATH-M50s, so if there is a sound difference, I would love to spend the extra bit on that, but I cannot get a sure answer.
Typical phone stuff, but I tend to listen to music a lot on my phone. So if there is a hardware difference between the two, I would definitely get the H/K.
Well if the device being hackable isn't important go with it. I does have some of the best audio phone wise. The google play edition is most hackable by you can't get it in contract.
I would definitely wait till the htc one m9 comes out (March). But if you absolutely have to get the m8, just go with the regular version. The one m8 h/k doesnt have any better hardware. Just eq adjustments actually and bloatware to go with it. The H/k comes with some nice earbuds though (over $100) so if you want some earbuds, go with the h/k and deal with the bloatware.
I have the M7 with the Beats sound, and I'm pretty sure it's just an equalizer thing. You could do some googling to see if there are actual hardware differences, but I doubt it. I'd probably wait if you can, until the m9 gets properly announced, so you don't get stuck with a phone at the end of its life cycle. I love the build and design of the One phones, but if your battery starts deteriorating like mine is then you're pretty much screwed... can't replace that shit.