I've been using a set of Sennheiser PX100's with my Creative Zen mp3 player. I've been very happy with these but unfortunately they have now broke so it is now time to replace.

Rather than just go for the same again I thought I would browse around and see if I can get even better for my money. They are mainly for use on my mp3 player and I may occasionaly plug into the TV at night although I do have a fairly cheap set for that purpose. After browsing around here is my list that I have come up with:-

1. Grado i-Grado - £34.90 (read a review that says it is the same driver as a more expensive model and sounds almost the same)
2. Koss Porta Pro - £20.67 (great reviews but I'm wondering if they are any better than the PX100's)
3. Beyerdynamic DT 231 - £26.99 (read a few good comments)
4. Sennheiser HD485 - £34.95 (read a few good comments but also read that it is a bit heavy on the bass and also wondering if they are too big to wear out).
5. Goldring DR100 - £36.00 (heard lots of positives about these)

This gives you an idea of what I've been looking at. As you can see there are a couple of bigger sets on there, I figured that if going bigger gives better sound then I don't mind going down that route as long as they are not over the top and don't look too ridiculous outside. Also money is tight and I don't really want to go over £40 as the wife will kill me. Anyway, any help will be appreciated as I'm just waiting to order a pair.

Anyone? Another question is, would I maybe better with some ear canal plugs instead being as it is mainly mp3 player use?

Quote:



I can't say for the DR100 or DT231 as I have not personally heard those. The Portas are close to the PX100 but I feel a bit more intense, fun. They are well built, mine are 24+ and still going. I found the HD485 to be too bassy for my taste. They also made my ears hot. I don't like large phones for mobile use, but it's all personal preference. If you really liked the PX100, then I'd suggest either the Porta, or test out the iGrado. If you really liked the PX100, you can always just replace them.

from the list of yours i would recommend iGrado (never heard the Goldring one)... can i recommend other (mid-size, since you mention some mid-size in your list too) cans as well ? go search an information/reviews for EquationAudio RP15mc or RP21... and you can search for AKG K81dj too...

Best thing about the PortaPros is if they do break, you can send them in for repairs/replacement at the cost of shipping. I've done it twice.

Edit: Never tried the PX100, but the portapros have monster bass, they're snug fitting -- so they won't fall off, but they can snag at the hairs on the back of your neck if you aren't careful. Some people love them, some people hate them. They were my favourite headphone for a long time.