Can you recommend me some headphones?
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Topic: Can you recommend me some headphones?
Posted By: imma
Subject: Can you recommend me some headphones?
Date Posted: February 15 2012 at 23:08
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Hi, I dont know anything about audio, I've always listened to music in low quality speakers/headphones, but now I think its time to finally get something great. I think I can spend 130 U$D but not more than that. I listen to Rock/Prog & Metal mostly, then Jazz & Classical. Thank You! And sorry for my bad english. |
Replies:
Posted By: Triceratopsoil
Date Posted: February 16 2012 at 00:09
| Go to a store, try some, buy ones that sound good to you and are comfortable. |
Posted By: Slartibartfast
Date Posted: February 16 2012 at 06:12
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This isn't the first time the question has been raised. Barring just trying some out in a store, Consumer Reports tests stuff like this. You will have to pay to get their evaluations but here's a link: http://www.consumerreports.org/" rel="nofollow - http://www.consumerreports.org/ They test and evaluate lots of stuff and don't take advertising so you can count on unbiased integrity. ------------- Released date are often when it it impacted you but recorded dates are when it really happened... 
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Posted By: imma
Date Posted: February 16 2012 at 11:44
| Thank you! :) |
Posted By: yam yam
Date Posted: February 20 2012 at 22:38
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This site may be of interest to you: http://www.goodcans.com/HeadphoneReviews/Reviewss/recommendations.html." rel="nofollow - http://www.goodcans.com/HeadphoneReviews/Reviewss/recommendations.html. I've got a pair of cheap Koss Portapro open back collapsible ones (1st ones in the list) and for the money (about 25 GBP) they are outstanding (with a good rich bass). A UK site which gives helpful advice and reviews is this one: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/best-headphones-earphones-guides.html" rel="nofollow - http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/best-headphones-earphones-guides.html , but there's no substitute for going to the store in person, and trying a selection out on the sort of music you are going to be listening to at home. Good luck!
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Posted By: Sagichim
Date Posted: February 25 2012 at 02:24
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The first thing you should decide is what kind of headphone/earphone do you want?! my favourite kind is in-ear headphones , when you insert the earphone bud into the ear canal , which completely isolate the outside noises . for a few years i'm sticking with 'shure' - they are a very important name in the audio technology development , and released quite a few hi end earphones. i had : SE110 , SE210 and now i use SE215 which are great for their price , which kind of what you wanted to spend. I'd go with SE215 if you have a store which you can try some kinds of earphone of course this would be the best.. and don't forget that your audio source ( ipod, selular, mp3 player) is very important. apple sources ( ipod , iphone ) being very high quality. good luck and keep us posted. |
Posted By: Accugroove
Date Posted: March 03 2012 at 01:22
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I can stress it enough, give Grado a try. If its for portable use, you might want to reconsider, but now every time I try some other cans in the same price range, they just dont compare to the sound that I get from my Grado SR 225's. |
Posted By: Andrewanth
Date Posted: April 14 2012 at 08:27
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Bad quality speakers never go well. Replace with some good quality speakers , headphones ------------- http://spam.co.uk" rel="nofollow - headphones | http://spam.co.uk/by_brands/sony-headphones" rel="nofollow - Sony headphones |
Posted By: imma
Date Posted: April 14 2012 at 10:05
| I'm going to buy Behringer HPS 3000, I don't know if its the best choice but at least they are cheap and they sound pretty good to me. Now I have to think which speakers I'll buy (which I'm going to use more than the headphones) |
Posted By: Sagichim
Date Posted: April 14 2012 at 11:17
| You can consider buying second hand speakers. People that are dealing with "high priced" speakers usually take good care of them, so you can find some really good stuff without paying a lot of money. |
Posted By: Kotro
Date Posted: April 14 2012 at 11:33
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I second the Koss Portapro suggestion, but only to use at home - I find them a bit uncomfortable and with too low sound levels to use outside. ------------- Bigger on the inside. |
Posted By: clarkpegasus4001
Date Posted: April 14 2012 at 13:43
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Try Beyerdynamic, they are expensive but great clarity. That said I bought some cheap headphones around £13 (UK Pounds) and they are light and do the job. I use them for recording as well. They are Panasonic RP HT225 Good luck with your search ------------- Tony C. |
Posted By: ProgMetaller2112
Date Posted: May 25 2014 at 01:35
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I think it depends on the person to be honest. It really depends on what you like ------------- “War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength.” ― George Orwell, Nineteen Eighty-Four "Ignorance and Prejudice and Fear walk Hand in Hand"- Neil Peart |
Posted By: ewalcacer
Date Posted: October 05 2014 at 22:22
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Since you asked for a straight recommendation I can easily recommend you the ATH-M50 from Audio Technica. ------------- Prog Rock, Beer, Chemistry and Games... That's all I need! |
Posted By: Tom Ozric
Date Posted: October 06 2014 at 00:45
| For decent quality mainstream product you could go for Dr Dre. They are simplistic, but sound great. |
Posted By: Sagichim
Date Posted: October 06 2014 at 00:58
| I don't think it's still relevant recommending speakers to this guy in such an old thread, especially if he hasn't logged in in 2 years. |
Posted By: Vompatti
Date Posted: October 06 2014 at 04:42
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Sagichim wrote:Posted By: Tom Ozric
Date Posted: October 06 2014 at 04:49
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Posted By: Meltdowner
Date Posted: October 06 2014 at 04:58
^ There might be other persons looking for headphone recommendations 
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Posted By: Triceratopsoil
Date Posted: October 06 2014 at 18:26
There is a reason they sort threads by date of last post |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: October 06 2014 at 21:06
Hi there. I'd be happy to help you and I understand that the world of audio, especially headphones can be quite daunting because there are so many brands/manufactures to choose from. Lets see how we can simplify this. I will need to know just a few things from you. 1) what kind of headphone do you prefer (closed back, on-ear, over ear, noise isolation or noise cancelation?) these options pertain to comfort (style) and sound leakage meaning If your listening to your music do you want others to hear it as well or not, and would you like to completely block out outside noises? 2) How do you mostly listen to music (at home or travel(street) ? 3) sound preferences? Now this is where the fun comes in. Many headphones have unique and interesting sound characteristics. Some offer more bottom end (bass) some offer a more weighty treble and some offer a more upfront vocal experience. Most of all its all about sound dynamics. You obviously love Prog, so I would probably recommend a headphone that carries a very neutral sound meaning the lows, mids and highs are all with in a reasonable balance between one another, meaning treble or bass or vocals really won't overpower one another. 4) please give me your sources you have or may be interested in the future. 5) PRICE!!! Is $130 USD the highest you can or are willing to go? Anyhow. I'm glad to hear that you are finally gonna kill those sh*tty speakers through crappy sources. You'll be amazed how unbelievably incredible a headphone listening experience can be and sound. Technology today is so superior. Buying quality headphones is one of the first steps you can take towards really bringing the life out of your music. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Darious
Date Posted: October 07 2014 at 02:45
I would be interested in your suggestions, despite not being the creator of this topic. What would you recommend for listening to some mighty symphonic progressive rock pieces through headphones? Powerful bass tones would be appreciated in the bid to enhance some scary moments of the given works, but not at the expense of the clarity of high tones. I currently use Marantz CD6005 with either the awsome AKG K-550 connected directly or through the Marantz PM6005. Quite modest set up, I agree, but I'm being absolutely happy with it in terms of its abilities and qualities. Despite this, I would still be interested in your opinion and suggestions. ------------- Writing about truth is a little bit like getting your dick out in public and hoping no one laughs (Steve Hogarth) |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: October 07 2014 at 08:12
That Marantz PM6005 is a very good for the $$. If I am not mistaken it does have a built in DAC? Anyway, the Marantz is the closest part of your system to being in HIFI territory. The CD player portion of the unit is excellent and you really don't have to spend much more to get a better one at because the laser on that player is fairly large and can pick up all the data that is stored on CDs with ease and accuracy. However, with all of your sources you are setting comfortably in MID-FI territory. Those AKG's are again, great for the money and quite large I might add. Very beefy can, which I think is cool. ;) I know the 551's have been reconstructed a bit (cable wise) for street use. Anyway, the K550's have a 350-400$ price tag but paired with the right sources (amp, interconnects and DACS) they can sound like they are worth a lot more than that. They are neutral sounding, which is why I understand you feel like you want more bass. Ok. Here are some suggestions based on upgrading the AKG K550 and given your sources. Sennheiser HD650 ( bass is tight, but the dynamics are huge on this headphone. Very nice can. ;) B&W P7 ( these are in the same class as your K550's, but carry a more accurate sound with a stronger bass notation. Great for travel as well. Around the same price point. ;) Grado 325i's --for the cash. Wow. Very open realistic open backed headphones. These are not for the street! Bang & Olfsen H6--very very bassy and carry a rich, heavy sound. Upper tier headphone. V-Mota X'S-- these are V-Mota's flagship right now and use 50mm drivers in them. Biggest in its class and great for travel too. Also, if you want bass you'll get it. These cans have a fair price point. Sony MDR Z-7--- these are brand new on the market! Sony uses 70mm drivers!! Most of any headphone in the world. Your bass will be bad ass on these cans. Also its a headphone that Has a built in DAC! Downside. May be out of your price range. Around 699$ pls tax. Those cans I listed above will give you some difference to what you have already. May I say that I would keep the AKG's for travel and invest in a HIFI can for the home. Lastly some of those headphones require quality amplification, so you may have to upgrade your sources for power. ;) All in all. You are getting some of the picture with what you have, and upgrading will cost you a bit more to do it really right!! Happy listening. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: October 07 2014 at 08:19
Check out the SHURE 846's.  $$$$ Hey sagi. Don't want to sound like mr. Square but with IEM's you be careful with them cause you can throw out your hearing real fast. I know they 'isolate noise' very well, but their are alternatives and easier on your ears. ;) Check out the BOSE QC 15's. outside noise doesn't stand a chance! They are an over ear fit too. ;) ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: October 07 2014 at 08:22
Believe I'm the dumbest. Ah well. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Darious
Date Posted: October 08 2014 at 07:12
Thanks, I really appreciate your great advise. Yep, PM6005 has already got a built-in, wonderful Cirrus Logic 24 bit/192 kHz DAC. What a joy. I wouldn't need headphones with built-in DAC, as I won't listen to my music on streets. So all them street-wise headphones would also be out of my radar. Sony forked out then. Bowers & Wilkins P7 are great, but my preference goes towards totally-over-an-ear solutions rather than just on-ear. But those Grados look absolutely fantastic! I was considering Grados before AKG. Grado SR325e has just won What Hi*Fi Sound and Vision contest "The biggest, best headphones". On par with AKG Q 701, they bettered Audio Technica, Beyerdynamic, B&W, Focal Spirit and Pioneer offerings. Only disappointment is rather short (at 1.5m) cable. And I, again, look towards those AKGs. What would be your opinion on the said AKG Q701? ------------- Writing about truth is a little bit like getting your dick out in public and hoping no one laughs (Steve Hogarth) |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: October 08 2014 at 08:35
Hey man. I think if you want to stay in the AKG family and since you already have the K550's, I'd really skip the 701's and go for the K812's. for a couple of hundred dollars you will get massive sonic improvements. The 812's are riding as AKG's flagship right now. They are wonderful and paired with your sources pm 6005 you'll notice a huge difference. ;) However, if you want to go a less expensive route I'd look at those grado models From their 600 series down. The cabling on those grado headphones is exceptional. They are even hard wired in cause they are such a professional product. Let me know what you decide on. Oh and I love Whathifi as well. Great source. Lastly as for cable upgrades. Look no further than MOONAUDIO. The best price for high end headphone cable upgrade. :) ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Padraic
Date Posted: December 18 2014 at 11:39
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I'm thinking about getting a "starter" pair, and going with the Senn 558s. |
Posted By: Meltdowner
Date Posted: December 18 2014 at 15:20
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Those seem nice, tell us what do you think of those if you get them. I have a pair of 449's for almost 3 years and they sound very good |
Posted By: Padraic
Date Posted: December 18 2014 at 15:25
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Probably won't be until my birthday in 4 months, because I just spent the GDP of a small island on the fam for Christmas. |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: December 22 2014 at 16:02
I really recommend you pass on the 550' series. Go with the 650's. if your prepared to invest in quality I'd start with this. Also, once you get those headphones in the future you'll have to buy a proper dedicated headphone amplifier to maximize those CANS potential. 650 is much better territory audio wise to start with if you are willing to spend a little extra. Anyway, nice to hear that you are making a solid step for a better, more realistic listening experience. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Padraic
Date Posted: December 22 2014 at 16:10
Noted - I just worry about diminishing returns. I can certainly lay out the cash for the 650s, but I want to make sure I'm getting appropriate value for that delta cost. edit: if you see the other thread "what do you listen to prog on" you can see some back and forth between myself and Catcher10 on a good headphone amp/DAC setup. |
Posted By: AEProgman
Date Posted: February 14 2015 at 18:49
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Because I am a cheap SOB and do not usually treat my headphones with kid gloves. Always have gotten headphones less than 40$ (told you I was a cheap @#$^@), and they break within a year or two. Anyway, getting tired of the bland sound and the wire or connection not working on the cheap stuff. I am looking for advice from some of you gurus on a good rugged pair of headphones between 100 - 200$ with great overall sound. Any advice is appreciated, thanks. ------------- 
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Posted By: Padraic
Date Posted: February 14 2015 at 19:12
I own http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HVLUR54/ref=psdc_172541_t3_B00HVLUR86" rel="nofollow - these . Will be upgrading in about a years time, but I think they are pretty damn good for the price. |
Posted By: Catcher10
Date Posted: February 15 2015 at 00:50
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Sennheiser HD518 http://www.crutchfield.com/p_143HD518/Sennheiser-HD-518.html?tp=60828" rel="nofollow - http://www.crutchfield.com/p_143HD518/Sennheiser-HD-518.html?tp=60828 -------------   
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Posted By: Toaster Mantis
Date Posted: February 15 2015 at 04:25
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I'm using a pair of Sennheiser PX-100s. They have very good sound quality and are extremely comfortable while also being rather compact, the important thing being that they can be folded together and are easy to transport. I'm also under the impression, though, that they are rather expensive as they were a graduation gift from my parents. ------------- "The past is not some static being, it is not a previous present, nor a present that has passed away; the past has its own dynamic being which is constantly renewed and renewing." - Claire Colebrook |
Posted By: Mascodagama
Date Posted: February 15 2015 at 05:14
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I will join with those recommending Sennheiser - they have models to suit most budgets and make great-sounding and durable headphones. I have the huge, dorky-looking HD600s and HD650s and I love 'em. Strictly for home listening in a fairly quiet environment though as they're open-backed. But tremendously comfy and monitor-quality sound. Mind you with Sennheiser you will generally get an unbiased sound - they don't emphasise the bass or any other part of the spectrum. As it should be IMO! |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: February 15 2015 at 09:20
Okay!  What's up my friend? Since you know and love the RPI genre so well I'd say you want a headphone that give you a nice neutral sound without the overkill on bass extension. May I suggest the BOWER AND WILKENS P5's for your budget or look into Bang and Olfsen's H6 on ear headphone model. Don't know what style of headphone you prefer, but personally I think circumural (over ear) headphone that is not Closed back is the best. GRADO's lower end models can give you decent bang for your dollar. Great brands there and very easy to drive. One last one. The AKG 550's or 551's. these are studio monitors like the one Pedraig suggested. Great, neutral sounding can. :) Also. A great website to checkout is HEAD-FI.COM. This will allow you to get testimonials on whatever you are interested in because freaks (like me) blog about this sh*t all the time. Good luck. Let me know if I can help out in any other way. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: AEProgman
Date Posted: February 15 2015 at 18:07
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Thanks guys! Did realize how many different upper end headphones there were available out there, have not really looked into this until now. The only brand I recognized were the Sennheisers. Nick! How goes it? Yes RPI will be cranking, although have only gotten 1 RPI title in the past month or so. Been exploring the Neo-prog world of late. I plan to use the website you mentioned, Head-Fi on the choices I've come down to before I buy (listed below for any input from anyone). Would like to test some of them, but I doubt I will find any place around these parts that carry these, except maybe the guitar/instrument stores, will have to check those out. From the info you guys provided and websites, here is the list at this point to figure out which one is the winner: AKG - the K240 or K240 MkII Audio Technica - ATH-M40X Sennheiser - HD280 or HD518 Grado - Prestiege SR80e The Bower and Wilkens, Bang and Olfsen's looked good, but the $$$ for the ones I liked would blow the budget  . Mostly prefer the over the ear type/comortable, and will be used in various locations, devices, and components. No DACs or amps.-------------
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Posted By: Meltdowner
Date Posted: February 15 2015 at 18:25
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^ I tried the HD518 once at the local store, they sound really good and are very comfortable. |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: February 16 2015 at 11:40
If no amp will support your set up just make sure you try to grab a headphone that is at or under 38 OHMS, otherwise they will need an amp so you can drive them properly. It me know what you decide on. The world of audio is fascinating. Also 1 RPI album in 1 month?? How unlike you. Talk soon. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: AEProgman
Date Posted: February 17 2015 at 20:02
Holy Ohms Law Batman! Never figured on so much details and calculations to ponder. I am reconsidering the use of an amp, maybe a DAC if I want to get the most bang for my buck. But it has to be portable and of course low $ for starters. Nick, you or anyone used a FiiO portable amp? Or others? I think I found a couple of places locally where I can test drive some of the headphones on my list, hopefully they will have some amps to test to see the differences. Hope I am not becoming an audiophile  , will have to figure out how to launder money without the wife's knowledge.. -------------
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Posted By: Catcher10
Date Posted: February 18 2015 at 08:59
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^ We are all audiophiles, we want to listen to our music in the best possible way to give us the best musical experience...Does not matter if you spend $50 or $5K. FiiO amps are pretty nice and very portable, they also make them with bands that wrap around your music device like an iPod, Zune or phone. Auditioning is the best thing you can do -------------
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Posted By: aglasshouse
Date Posted: February 18 2015 at 10:00
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I use Turtle Beach headphones. Although they're made specifically for gaming, I've found that they can be used as great music listening devices. ------------- http://fryingpanmedia.com |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: February 18 2015 at 19:26
Yeah I know. Electrical resistance is a bitch. And as for FiiO. Yes! I've used the E17, which is a DAC and AMP hybrid. A real steal for the money. Sitting at 120 U.S you can't beat that price for the performance of this little sucker, which can drive headphones up to 300ohms!!! Pretty impressive and as my good friend Jośe said, you can band this amp so nicely with any I pod device, especially the Nano. The FiiO monte Blanc is their flagship for portable amps right now, but the E 17 will be more than enough for the budget price of the headphones you are gonna select. If you pair the FiiO with the audio Technica ATH M-50's that's a nice starting point for a decent listening experience that will be under 250$. However, it is frightening how many headphones are out there to choose and how bloody different they sound, but getting a neutral pair of studio monitors like the M-50's is a great starting point...later on the "Upgradiness bug' will set in and you'll need and want a better pair of headphones. The E17 is a great buy, and I currently use it to drive my Sony MDR Z 7's for a quality on the go music listening experience. Those cans are 70 ohms and the FiiO drives them beautifully. The DAC quality however is good, but not amazing. Enjoy man ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: AEProgman
Date Posted: February 19 2015 at 07:10
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Thanks Nick and Jose'! Hopefully I can test drive some of the headphones (and amps) in the upcoming week and then take the plunge. You guys and the others gave me a good starting point to begin a long overdue journey into better listening. Thinking back to the only good headphones I ever had was as a teenager in the 70s, I got a pair of the old Koss Pro 4A (or whatever the model # was then) for Christmas. Back then they cost $40 which was big bucks then! Surprised to see they brought that model back due to popular demand for $80. I Plugged them into an old Midland 8-track tape deck, I had never heard such wonderful new sounds to songs, I could hardly believe it was the same old songs I had been listening to. After that, I never had a good pair (must have spent money on girls, cars, and partying ).I guess we are all audiophiles to some degree or we would not be here on PA .-------------
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Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: February 23 2015 at 22:44
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Absolutely my pleasure, my friend. I get very excited when I hear about other fellow prog heads like yourself willing to strive to get the very best out of their music listening experiences.  You begin to appreciate the creatively gifted sound engineers and hear the differences in what makes up a quality recording in general. Another thing is instrument placement. You feel the air and separation in the overall sound stage, but that is really further down the road for you cause you gotta spend some cash to achieve that from your gear. Anyhow, happy listening. Let me know how it goes and what differences you hear along the way. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Catcher10
Date Posted: February 23 2015 at 23:58
No problem.....I used some of those big cans by Koss too as a teenager. I used to fall asleep with them on listening to Rush.....I had Rush mix tapes on reel to reel and would just lay down and listen before you know it I was out.....Something about listening to music thru headphones always makes me sleepy..dunno guess I am weird that way Once you start to hear music in a much higher quality playback, you will want to continue that path but more importantly you will hear your favorite music in a different way......I bet ya! Cheers and have fun! -------------
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Posted By: AEProgman
Date Posted: February 27 2015 at 21:17
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Update! After test driving the AKG K240, Audio-Technica ATH-M40X & M50X, and Sennheiser HD280 & HD380, I decided on the ATH-M40X! It was between Audio-Technica and Sennheiser for sound, but it came down to comfort. The M40X just felt so much better on my head. To my untrained ears in quality headphones, there was little difference to me between the 40X vs the 50X, except possibly a little fuller base sound in the 50s. The Sennheisers had a little brighter sound and it made it tough to choose. Sadly I could not find any Grados to test drive, was looking for the SR80s. I should mention the closer on the deal was that Amazon had bundle deal going that included a Creative Sound Blaster E1 headphone amp for only $10 more (total $110+tax). It had mixed reviews as it is a jack of all trades but master of none. It is a portable headphone amp (2 headphone jacks), built in microphone, and if connected to a computer it can use Sound Blaster Control panel software to enhance/mix your computer sound. The amp and microphone (great on my smartphone as I can use it for work) seem to work fine so far. Amp seems to add another 30-40 % extra boost of volume. I figure for 10 bucks, if I don't like it, it will just be used as a MP3 player booster in the car and a phone mic. Gives me more time and $$ to research getting a good dac/amp. Anyway, been like a kid at Christmas today when it arrived (wife wish I got that excited about other things... ). Sounds great, been noticing sounds to my old favorites that had not heard before. I have noticed that my ears now have to adjust to how to listen properly again.Again, thanks for the advice guys, got me a good entry point into quality listening. No more cheap stuff! -------------
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Posted By: Green Shield Stamp
Date Posted: April 04 2015 at 19:28
Philips Fidelio M1 headphones are the best cans I have ever owned.
 ------------- Haiku Writing a poem With seventeen syllables Is very diffic.... |
Posted By: Padraic
Date Posted: April 15 2015 at 09:43
Sorry, just saw this - hope you enjoy them, I really do think they are great for the price. I'll still probably upgrade around Christmas but my ATH will end up in my office, I'll never get rid of them. |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: April 16 2015 at 03:31
You've now Taken a small plunge. Just wait cause I bet in under 2 years time you'll have upgraded your gear. Get ready to be an addict. Anyhow, congrats buddy. Really nice to hear good things about how happy you are with your new cans. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: April 16 2015 at 03:32
Yup. Your weird buddy! ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Catcher10
Date Posted: April 16 2015 at 12:59
The DacMan has spoken.... Cheers my friend -------------
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Posted By: JD
Date Posted: April 16 2015 at 17:50
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I'll second, third or fourth anyone who said AKG -K240's. Have been using them live and in the studio since around 1981 and am only on my second pair now. Some people find them a little bulky but the sound is beautiful, full and clean. ------------- Thank you for supporting independently produced music |
Posted By: Natural Mystic
Date Posted: November 22 2015 at 05:18
| AKG yep! Even the cheaper model K540 by AKG is good enough for me. |
Posted By: BaldJean
Date Posted: November 22 2015 at 06:56
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we have the Logitech G430 headset and are very satisfied with it. Logitech sell it for $99.99 http://gaming.logitech.com/en-ca/product/g430-7-1-surround-sound-gaming-headset" rel="nofollow - http://gaming.logitech.com/en-ca/product/g430-7-1-surround-sound-gaming-headset -------------  A shot of me as High Priestess of Gaia during our fall festival. Ceterum censeo principiis obsta |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: November 27 2015 at 00:09
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Yes. It's nice to hear some of you venturing into the Scandinavian built headphones, AKG. AKG offer sublime neutrality, especially for the cost. The 240's are a very good buy and extremely light weight! Comfort and build quality are important factors to consider when buying a headphone. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: MarianoH
Date Posted: December 24 2015 at 08:03
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http://www.edifier.com/my/en/headphones/h640p Those have CRYSTAL QUALITY AUDIO, at first I was like "wut is this"? But hey, they didn't lie! the sound is actually crystal clear, I'm super happy with it! My songs sound even better here! I love them! |
Posted By: Geneyes
Date Posted: December 27 2015 at 19:12
| I recently bought a pair of Sennheiser Momentum over ear headphones. All of my other headphones have become redundant. They are the perfect headphones for me: rich, warm, natural-sounding with excellent bass presence. |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: December 29 2015 at 03:17
I can't argue with what you said in anyway. Sennheiser offer quality in just about all of their models. They are the most competitive headphone company in the world in just about any price bracket. I of course own their flagship HD 800's (no mods done) and they compete with AUDEZE, mr. Speakers, HIFI man and bayerdynamic flagship headphones. They are a steal for the $ ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: December 29 2015 at 03:17
I can't argue with what you said in anyway. Sennheiser offer quality in just about all of their models. They are the most competitive headphone company in the world in just about any price bracket. I of course own their flagship HD 800's (no mods done) and they compete with AUDEZE, mr. Speakers, HIFI man and bayerdynamic flagship headphones. They are a steal for the $ ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: December 29 2015 at 03:20
A very competitive headphone company in just about any price bracket you can think of. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Magnum Vaeltaja
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 07:07
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This thread is a little old, but perhaps someone would care to recommend me some noise-cancelling over-ear headphones? I'm looking for something that cuts down on background noise as much as possible so I can appreciate the dynamics in my music without deafening myself when I'm riding on transit or out in the city. I'd also like something as durable as possible; I'll be out and about with these most days and I don't want to have to buy a new pair after a few months. Noise-cancelling and durability are my top priorities, but of course I'd still like something comfortable to wear, inexpensive if possible, etc. Any suggestions? ------------- when i was a kid a doller was worth ten dollers - now a doller couldnt even buy you fifty cents |
Posted By: Meltdowner
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 07:20
| ^ What do you consider expensive? |
Posted By: Magnum Vaeltaja
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 07:23
I'd like to keep it under $200 if possible, but I'd be willing to spend more if it meant significantly better longevity. ------------- when i was a kid a doller was worth ten dollers - now a doller couldnt even buy you fifty cents |
Posted By: Meltdowner
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 07:38
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^ That's a reasonable range then (unlike a guy who recently asked me for a recommendation but didn't want to spend more than 30€ ). Did you read the previous pages? There are some great advices already. If not, I guess your fellow countryman Nick, up here, can provide you a better anwser
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Posted By: dr wu23
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 08:11
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http://www.head-fi.org/products/shure-srh-440-professional-studio-headphones" rel="nofollow - http://www.head-fi.org/products/shure-srh-440-professional-studio-headphones I'm very happy with these.....they are only about $100....they sound good and are durable. You can spend some major money on headphones but for the price these are damn good. ------------- One does nothing yet nothing is left undone. Haquin |
Posted By: Vompatti
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 08:31
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The <30€ guy should try Superlux. |
Posted By: Meltdowner
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 08:52
| ^ Never heard of that brand before, good to know. They seem good on paper, for their price. |
Posted By: Dean
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 08:54
Tricky. Noise cancellation adds weight, complication and extra expense. If the noise cancellation is passive (like a pair of industrial-strength ear-defenders with built-in speakers) then the extra padding is going to add bulk and weight to the detriment of comfort and will affect the performance of the headphones as they are now essentially sealed volume chambers. Conversely if the noise cancellation is active then they will require electronics and batteries to make them work, which also adds bulk and weight. The other potential down-side of active noise-cancellation is that it colours the audio you are listening to since the active noise cancellation adds anti-sound to the audio source which from a fidelity point of view can only be to the detriment of what you are listening to. Here you pay your money and you make your choice - the technology in Bose headphones is very good but they are out of your price-range, and the audio performance of Bose (with or without noise-cancellation) isn't to everyone's liking anyway. And that highlights the third (or is it fourth) problem with noise-cancelling headphones - the additional expense of having two microphones, some clever electronics and a built-in stereo amplifier means that for $200 you are not going to get a pair of headphones that are as good as a pair of non-cancelling headphones (either sonically or in build-quality). There is a side-affect of active noise-cancellation that you seldom hear about (unintentional pun) and that is they can be disconcerting and can even imperceptibly affect your balance. This is most noticeable during silences in what you are listening to and it can be quite unnerving if you are especially susceptible or sensitive to it. Also if you don't get on with fully enclosed headphones anyway then active noise-cancellers are probably not for you either (even the open ones) however, just spending your $200 cash on a good quality pair of non-cancelling enclosed headphones and playing some immersive and engrossing Prog may be enough for you to mentally block-out any extraneous noise anyway. With all things audio - everything is subjective so the best advice is to go into a store and try some for yourself as how they sound to you is the only thing that is of any importance. ------------- What? |
Posted By: Magnum Vaeltaja
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 11:30
Thank you everyone who has responded so far, you've all been a big help.  I did go into the store earlier today and tried some pairs of Sennheiser and Bose headphones on. I didn't have any issues with comfort/weight/bulkiness, so I think that noise-cancelling would still be the way to go. I found that the Sennheiser ones had variable degrees of effectiveness as far as noise cancellation, with the Momentum ones being the best at getting rid of background noise, but the pair they had in the store made a hissing sound. My favourite pair that I tried was the Bose QC35, which I found had phenomenal sound quality and made my surroundings virtually silent. They were unfortunately above my budget, so I'm still looking around. In the meantime, any more advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. ------------- when i was a kid a doller was worth ten dollers - now a doller couldnt even buy you fifty cents |
Posted By: Sagichim
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 12:47
Kevin have you considered earphones? I'm using Shure SE215 for a few years now, they don't have noise cancelation but this type of ear buds just fits perfectly to your ear and I assure you when the music is playing you wouldn't hear if a bomb exploded next to you. I guess not everyone like this type of earphones, but I found them to be really comfortable, much better than headphones that cover the whole ear. For a 100$ it is a great product, excellent sound quality really and it is a top brand. I think that any 200$ earphones by the leading companies would serve you right, but of course it would be great if you could try them on in the store to check out the sound differences, just like I did when I got mine. |
Posted By: Dean
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 12:47
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^ I've experience high white noise levels (hissing) on cheaper noise cancelling headphones, I suspect it's a function of the noise-cancelling electronics. ------------- What? |
Posted By: Magnum Vaeltaja
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 13:20
I'm currently looking to replace the earbuds I have right now and am looking for over-ear headphones specifically because I find them more comfortable. Thanks for the recommendation, though! ------------- when i was a kid a doller was worth ten dollers - now a doller couldnt even buy you fifty cents |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 14:15
Nailed it, Dean. Now I don't have to say a damn thing due to your thorough response, I would recommend noise isolating rather than Canceling in the over ear headphone category. You get the better of both features in regards to sound quality and limiting ambient noise background.  ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 14:21
Would you care to spend around $425 CAN for a pair of headphones That are built for the street and have an analog Amp built inside of them!! Check out Blue-Mofi headphones. These suckers isolate noise very well And provide an added volume boost to compensate for any dull amp that is built into your hand held player. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Magnum Vaeltaja
Date Posted: August 02 2016 at 15:33
Those ones look like absolute bliss! Unfortunately they're a bit pricey for me at this point in time. I suppose that noise isolating headphones would do just fine as well if it means better sound quality/reliability within my budget. Are there any specific models that you would recommend? ------------- when i was a kid a doller was worth ten dollers - now a doller couldnt even buy you fifty cents |
Posted By: Magnum Vaeltaja
Date Posted: August 09 2016 at 13:23
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I think I've decided on getting a pair of Sennheiser HD 471's. I loved how comfortable they were and found them to have good noise isolation and sound quality for the price ($130 CAD). Is there anyone who owns some and can attest to their quality in day to day use? ------------- when i was a kid a doller was worth ten dollers - now a doller couldnt even buy you fifty cents |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: August 10 2016 at 14:49
Yeah the Blue Mo-fi!! Buddy, you want quality these days you gotta pay for it. I'm sorry to say that I am one corrupted dude cause I've spoiled my ears with some serious ear candy. My opinion, and it is just that, 200$ really doesn't get you a whole lot these days. Maybe the bower & WILKENS P5 may be suitable for your listening needs and for what gear you are using. I find the 200$ price bracket tricky. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Magnum Vaeltaja
Date Posted: August 22 2016 at 14:03
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Thanks for all the suggestions and advice everyone, I thought I'd update with my final decision. I ended up deciding on a pair of Sennheiser HD 461's, which I'm very happy with! ------------- when i was a kid a doller was worth ten dollers - now a doller couldnt even buy you fifty cents |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: August 22 2016 at 16:22
Hey! Alright! You decided on something. Thats great man. Now you may decide to invest in a decent DAP (digital audio player.) I'm not talking your phone or I pod, but look at FIIO, ASTELL&KERN, Sony and Ibasso. These are great for travel and they have excellent amps/DAC's built inside them. FIIO is the most affordable. ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Guldbamsen
Date Posted: April 22 2017 at 14:37
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Bit of a bump here but I didn't want to start a new thread just because I bought some new cans. Here the other day I was struck by how good my new earbuds sound (Sony MDR-EX650AP) compared with just about anything I've owned before. Hell I have never been that interested in hi-fi as long as the music sounded good. Anyways it got me thinking about some real cans - like in over the ear. I remember listening to my neighbours' records with proper headphones on when I was a kid and the sound was truly aweinspiring. Not sure why I forgot that experience...but all of this had me looking for a pair of cheap entry-level cans. Long story short: I ended purchasing the Sony MDR 7506. Yup I have no imagination whatsoever! I just look forward to hearing my old favourites in a whole new way. They're still en route so I haven't actually tried them yet but as more time passes by I'm starting to second guess my choice. AKG 240 perchance??  ------------- “The Guide says there is an art to flying or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” - Douglas Adams |
Posted By: Vompatti
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 02:11
| Superlux 668B. |
Posted By: Tapfret
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 03:09
| I had a set of AKG k240 back in the 90's for multitrack monitoring and loved them. I seem to remember paying somewhere in the $150-200 range. I say a $60 tag on them now. Might just pick up a pair since my old ones got soaked in a post-move storage room flood.. |
Posted By: Mascodagama
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 04:10
The Sony is closed back, the AKG semi-open, so not really suitable for use in public places due to sound leakage - if that makes a difference.
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Posted By: Guldbamsen
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 06:00
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Yeah I read that but then again the Sonys aren't that portable either with their 3 m undetachable chord. Nah I'm merely looking for an entry level pair of cans that act as a sort of jack-of-all-trades. Whether it bleeds into the surrounding area doesn't worry me at all. I was looking for something neutral to start out with. Hear the music as it was intended by the artist. The reason I got interested in the AKGs (240, 240 mk ii, 270, 270 mkii) was because of an old audio guy I know who relegayed them as being far more of a 'musical' headphone...whatever that means. I guess only my own ears can judge sufficiently. It's just fun to hear others chiming in on these discussions - hear how they hear what they hear. ------------- “The Guide says there is an art to flying or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” - Douglas Adams |
Posted By: Guldbamsen
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 06:06
I'm inclined to get a pair of these just to check them out. According to the reviews I've read you're basically getting 300 dollar professional headphone sound for the price of 40 bucks. Do you own a pair Vomps? ------------- “The Guide says there is an art to flying or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” - Douglas Adams |
Posted By: Rivertree
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 06:12
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I recently (re)bought an AKG240, due to some cable damage - caused by some excessive head banging sound is very good, price okay ... ------------- https://awesomeprog.com/users/Rivertree" rel="nofollow">  |
Posted By: Guldbamsen
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 06:14
Why not go up a notch a get the K702? It's just down to your sailor technique down on the docks. Either way I've heard great things about the 702 from AKG fans. Sorta like pouring nougat down your earcanal. ------------- “The Guide says there is an art to flying or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” - Douglas Adams |
Posted By: Guldbamsen
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 06:19
That seems to be the prevailing consensus: wonderful sound for the money. The only downside to them (and AKGs in general as I understand) is that a lot of folks into rock, funk, hip hop etc find them lacking in the bass department. (Maybe they're just used to beats by dre and can't handle a "normal" bass presence?) ------------- “The Guide says there is an art to flying or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” - Douglas Adams |
Posted By: Rivertree
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 06:25
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^I additionally have a Soundcraft Stereo Mixer in use, and when listening via computer DFX Audio Enhancer. a lot of possibilities to adjust the output ------------- https://awesomeprog.com/users/Rivertree" rel="nofollow"> |
Posted By: Guldbamsen
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 06:33
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Ahh yeah I haven't quite gotten to the stage where I consider investing in an eq. Maybe I should. That's kinda why I chose the sony pair. Seems pretty basic and are ready to go without too much hassle. ------------- “The Guide says there is an art to flying or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” - Douglas Adams |
Posted By: Vompatti
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 06:53
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^ I wouldn't compare the Superluxes to $300 headphones, but I prefer them to all of the $60-$100 ones I've had before (mostly Sennheisers). The only minuses for me are that the treble can be quite harsh (especially without an amp of some kind, I wouldn't use them without one) and the build quality is obviously on the plasticky side. |
Posted By: Guldbamsen
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 07:07
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Thanks for the info - much appreciated. It's a brand new world for me. I've been reading about all this mumbojumbo for the past few weeks or so trying to get some footing in a world that appears to be as inherently subjective as musical tastes are...but there does seem to be some lessons one can pick up whilst perusing other folks' experiences with cans. One irritating thing to point out: I have almost no way of trying out any of the headphones I'd like without having to spend 2 hours on a bus. Oh the joys of the danish countryside. ------------- “The Guide says there is an art to flying or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” - Douglas Adams |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 09:45
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] All I want to say is that I am happy to hear that you are making better strides to get the most out of your music. :) Personally Dave, for a guy who loves his tunes as much as you do I'm kinda surprised you didn't do this sooner. The smile on your face is gonna be huge for when you discover what sound sig really works for you. :) ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: progbethyname
Date Posted: April 23 2017 at 09:51
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Also. I'm not gonna tell you what to buy because I know to do things right, cost is a necessary evil. You are an extremely smart guy, Dave. Have a great time doing some research. I know you'll find something great and understand that certain headphones need more attention than others. ;) PM me If you ever want my help. :) ------------- Gimmie my headphones now!!! 🎧🤣 |
Posted By: Tapfret
Date Posted: April 24 2017 at 02:06
Bah! Waste of time! If you gonna bring it...then bring it! Focal Utopia Reference High-Fidelity Circumaural Headphones 4.4 out of 5 stars https://www.amazon.com/Focal-Utopia-High-Fidelity-Circumaural-Headphones/dp/B01LX4RNQB/ref=pd_sbs_23_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01LX4RNQB&pd_rd_r=CP2Q9WH4N433F9RA7NBC&pd_rd_w=lMDvg&pd_rd_wg=HRrwX&psc=1&refRID=CP2Q9WH4N433F9RA7NBC#customerReviews" rel="nofollow -
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Posted By: Tapfret
Date Posted: April 24 2017 at 12:18
It occurs to me that the device pictured is not really touching much bone.
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Posted By: Tapfret
Date Posted: April 24 2017 at 12:24
G or I?
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