but then again, the KSE1500 was so unwieldy with its DAC/AMP it was mostly relegated to indoor use as well.
I disagree, I take my KSE everywhere. I have it attached to an AK120II and the whole combo fits into my jeans pocket, like a fat walkman. I take long walks with it. And, of course, there are smaller DAPs that I could be using.
Yes, the DAC/AMP is a little bit of an incremental hassle, but I really dont find it to be that big a deal. And it's almost a surreal feeling to have such good sound while on the go.