I have audio technica M50 but I find them to be uncomfortable in general and totally unacceptable for periods >45m. I'm using them primarily off a MacBook Pro into a Total BitHead. I previously had a pair of BeyerDynamic DT-250 and I found them to be the same -- uncomfortable and tiring. Looking for a suggestion of a pair of headphones up to $200US which would do me well.

I listen to a lot of spoken word as well as indie rock and trip hop. Comfort is my #1 priority. Sealed is not really a must, I'm fine with open.

Also, is there any good online retailer in Canada or am I stuck getting an Intl shipment from a US seller?

Thanks!

Welcome.

What sound card or other equipment will you be plugging your new headphones into?

What made these two headphones uncomfortable and unacceptable to listen to? Clamp too hard? The ear pad material? They sounded too... what? Clarifying this will help identify more comfy and better sounding headphones (for you).

Primarily off the Total BitHead/Macbook Pro. I will also be occasionally using it for TV/Movies plugged into whatever stereo receiver I wind up buying.

First off, they were just uncomfortable to wear without anything on. I sold my BeyerDynamics long ago, but wearing the M50s right now they are too tight and too hot. Having music or even spoken word on is even more draining... I"m not sure how to describe it other than my ears feel tired, very quickly -- perhaps too much bass? I suppose too much bass fits in, as I don't feel like I'm hearing as much detail in the music as I have with other headphones such as Hd580s

Sounds like a job for the AD700s!

Quote:



I received a reccomendation for A700s from someone else.. What's the difference between the two?

AD700's are open back, larger soundstage, less bass. A700's closed back, smaller soundstage, more bass fwir.

sounds very appealing... they are on my short list...

seems like they have velour earpads rather than leather.. do those tend to be hotter/cooler/no difference?

The AD700s have velour pads, which I think are more comfortable than pleather (A700s= pleather). The AD700s are the most comfortable headphones I have ever used, although the lack of clamp got on my nerves a bit. IIRC I had a few heat problems with my Q40s but I've never had any problems with the AD700s.

"The AD700s are the most comfortable headphones I have ever used, although the lack of clamp got on my nerves a bit."

This is exactly what I was waiting to hear. I also have a big head so I think this is part of the problem.

I pulled the trigger on these, very excited. Thanks a ton!

Quote:



No problem, just remember if there is to much/little clamp for your liking, they can always be bent.