So I just put a pair of AKG K271 mk ii through a sort of trial period, these being my first real good headphones for a frame of reference.
I say trial because the right cup went out, and between heavy dismantling (beyond taking the inside of the right cup out to check the wires, which are good) and a straight 3 day refund, I thought Id go for the refund and open my options more, so Im looking again at good headphones. Some points of contention that I realized with the AKGs;
Very comfortable, loved the velour pads much more than anything, and the gimbal suspension system worked extremely well for me (ironically having possibly been the downfall). With that in mind, I would prefer a stronger more robust headband design, particularly because Im constantly mobile, especially with the work Ill be doing with this class of headphone, so many kudos if a recommendation is robust, and is easily wearable around the neck. Its also big that the cans be sealed at least semi-well, with the areas that I work. Both equally to keep all the sound in and not letting any sound out.
Clearer mids and highs than Ive ever noticed, besides a great sounding band + pa system and seasoned sound man.
Bass was very clear, wasnt experienced what I would imagine "one note bass" is, unlike any previous headphones I had (skullcandy titans + skullcrushers, sony in-ear, monoprice 8320) although it could have been more prominent. In the end, I prefer clearer and more distinguished bass over heavy thumping bass, although I wouldnt mind both as long as mids and highs are still clear.
Also of note; although nice, the automute switch bugged me more than aided me, particularly because it was very much hit or miss..
It was also a big plus for the AKG's having changeable pads and particularly headphone cables, so if a recommendation doesnt have that, it has to be an otherwise amazing set of cans.
What kind of headphones, knowing those points, could anyone recommend? Beyerdynamic or audio-technica both seem like respectable companies that have the sound signature Im looking for.
My general taste in music is jazz, rock, instrumental/soloist and guitar virtuoso (Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, John 5, Buckethead)
Budget is around 200, more if the price very much justifies the purchase. Also worth mentioning, I got a Fiio e07k amp to help power the AKG's, so keep that in mind.
