Hi, my search for the holy grail of comfortable but good sounding headphones has led me here. Before posting, though, I did search for "comfort" and "triport" (I'll explain why triport later) and didn't really find anything concrete. Yes, I read the threads on alternatives to the Triport. Sure, there were references to the HD280 and HD201 and some other headphones, but there seems to be an underlying emphasis on sound quality first, then comfort. I have nothing against that, but I've come to realize that if my headphones aren't supremely comfortable, I won't wear them long, even if they sound terrific.

Now, you're probably thinking, well, he doesn't know what great sound is. Maybe, but I've own some Grado SR60s for years (they still sound fabulous), a Sennheiser HD497, plus about 3 other headphones not worth mentioning.

The problem is that I've tried the Bose Triport in the store and I LOVE how it feels. Yes, the sound sucks, but it is SO COMFORTABLE!

So please, knowing my emphasis on comfort, I'm asking what headphones are as comfortable as the Triports first AND sound good second vs. asking what headphones sound good first and feel comfortable second.

BTW, my definition of comfort is the Triport, i.e. big, deep cups that barely touch the ears, plus soft cushions.

Thanks

K701.

D66 eggos? Never tried a pair myself but they look very similar (physically) to triports.

Garrett

Senn.555,595 beyer 770-pro 80, Senn 580,600,650 Koss UR40 and there are so many more. What is your budget.

Pretty much any decent circumaureal headphone is great with comfort and will easily match and lots of times surpass the Triports in comfort. My Beyerdynamics are AMAZINGLY comfortable, to the point you cant even tell they are there.

I did a forum search just after I bought my MS-1s looking for Grado/Alessandro and "comfort" in the same posts.

No entries were noted.

"So please, knowing my emphasis on comfort, I'm asking what headphones are as comfortable as the Triports first AND sound good second"

Then perhaps the Bose Triports are perfect for you, they seem to fill your requirements? . . . . . Funny I don't see any value placed on durability?

Seriously, there are many fine headphones that provide comfort. Made by many quality manufacturers. Beyer, AT, AKG and Sennheiser come to mind. I think we will need to know more about your listening habits, and the sources that you will be using before we can give you any valuable input on particular models.

- augustwest

There is no headphone which can compete with the Floats for comfort. Both off the bat and for long term wear. They are MORE comfortable than the Triports and sound incomparibly better too.

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Hmmm, I always thought that the screw you have to drive into your skull to keep them on your head would hurt like the dickens.

DT880 > * in terms of comfort.
Depends on what kind of sound you are after though/

What am I looking for in terms of sound? Something like the Grado SR60s would be perfect, though I know a closed set wouldn't sound as open. Neutral, detailed, clear mids, all good.

Price? Under $100 would be nice, but judging by what has been recommended so far, that sounds like a tall order.

I think my ears must be larger than normal (which makes sense because my noggin is pretty big, according to my wife) because besides the Triport, all circumaureal headphones I've tried (which aren't that many, actually) had cups that touched my ears in some uncomfortable way eventually.

So some cans with large, deep cups would be ideal.

Durability is always appreciated.

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Grados neutral? Not in my world.

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I wouldn't say that the SR60s are neutral at all. You want senns if you're looking for neutral. The 60s are very upfront and in your face. If you like the entire ear enclosure HD280s would fit the bill and are some of the most neutral cans I've ever heard.

For comfort, anything from the audio technica ath-ax00 line. Most comfortable headphones I have ever worn.

THE most comfortable headphones I've EVER worn are my HD570s. Many will come kind of close, but none quite make it, including the HD580/600/650 series. However, the HD590 has the same pads, but is supposedly a MUCH better sounding can. Perhaps you can look for a pair of them.