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++ FULL-SIZE HEADPHONE RECOMMENDATIONS THREAD++ i.e. Don't start a new thread: ask for advice... - Page 1676

post #25126 of 28712
2/21/13 at 2:15pm
Guys, I am shopping for a new headphone to be used for my computer. Mostly music (rock/metal) and ocassionally video games.

My requirements are the following:
- circumaural, so my whole ears fit inside
- good sound isolation (my pc is in the bedroom, and i'd like to be able to listen to loud music when my GF is asleep)
- durable (my headphones tend to fall of the table quite often and the plastics tend to break)
- not very sensitive - not sure how to explain this, but i have the Senns HD485, and i hear a lot of interference from my PC in them, while other cheaper headphones are dead silent
- replacable coiled cable would be a plus
- price range below 100 euros

Any ideas? I've been looking at the Sony MDR-V6, but they are not available in Slovakia and i also guess that they would be too small for my ears. The Audio-technica ATH-M30 is one of the candidates but it dont think it has replacable cables.

Thanks
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post #25127 of 28712
2/21/13 at 2:16pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by CapTinnitus View Post

I am looking to replace some cans that have done me pretty good for about 6 years (Sony MDR's).

 

Budget: Up to $1000 - to include HPhones + DAC/AMP (if needed... which it likely will be)

 

Music: I listen to a wide variety of music with a combination of lossless and slight compression. In order of frequency; Alternative Rock and Metal, Techno/House/Dub/Dance, Trip Hop, Top 40, Jazz and Smooth Jazz (old and new), Classical, Theatrical Soundtracks, 60's - current Popular, Country, Big Band 30's-40's, Hymn and Choir, and even a Mozart Opera once in a while.

 

Movies: All types from DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming media, but with a focus on Action Adventure and Sci-Fi - Matrix and Star Wars to Phantom of the Opera

 

Games: PC big titles and PS3/PS4 - PC has SB PCIe 24 bit w/Platinum front of case Connection Bay - PS3/4 optical audio and HDMIv2/3

 

Interested In: Full-sized cans. Open or semi-open are fine. Sound isolation or canceling not needed. Good frequency response (roughly 15Hz-30kHz) with a THD less than .7db or so. Wired not wireless and with a minimum cord length (overall) of roughly 3m/10ft.

 

Sound: As my name suggests, I do suffer from moderate tinnitus, but it only becomes exacerbated with too much "schrill" or volume across extended periods. Unfortunately, I also suffer slight hearing impairment at some frequencies, but most notably in the audible range. Surprisingly though, I have a good ear for pitch/clarity when the sound is "delivered properly" to me.

 

I love my Music and Movies so having audio that "delivers properly" is important to me.

Lows - should be dynamic and punchy but not overwhelming and wild so as to drown out details of the upper frequencies.

Highs - can not be shrill, but need to be smooth and crisp

Mids - I prefer the "V" on music I listen to most frequently, so while I don't need exaggerated mids, they must be clean, smooth, and strong for the audible frequencies for me to enjoy dialogue and soft music at all volume ranges. This has been my biggest problem with the Sony's that are on the fritz, I frequently had to adjust volume down for the action, and up to hear talking with Movies.

 

Comfort: This is a big one for me as I frequently use them and across what can be very long periods (upwards of 12-16 hrs). I tend to run hot so generally prefer cloth/soft ear coverings that breath a little. Cans should have enough room for my whole med sized ears with minimal pressure, and be of a size small enough to accommodate my size 7-1/4 s-m head. I'm pushing 50 so my hair is thinning on top, so I don't care for the feel of hard plastic on my head. I must note that I detest both too much clamp or sweating in my ears. My typical environment is a nice comfy easy-chair.

 

I have been considering a bunch of choices, but depending on where I look, the ratings are all over the place. These will primarily be used for Music and Movies, and only used for PC gaming as I have a pretty good pair of Turtle Beach Earforce PX21s I use for PS3/4 gaming.

 

Here is my current short list and would love to hear from you folks on your recommendations -- particularly if I don't have one on my list a should have:

 

- Beyerdynamic DT 880 or 990 (250 ohm)

- Sennheiser HD 598 (specs look pretty close to the $$$ HD 600 and HD 650's)

- Audio-Technica ATH-M50 PSM

- Shure SRH1440

 

And which wired DAC/ Desk-top-amp would you want to pair with them?

 

Thank you!


With your very detailed and specific requirements and very specific hearing issues, there is no substitute for you listening to all the cans that you are serious about buying.

 

I will add that you have picked a very mixed bag of sound signatures in the list of cans that you have listed.  A couple, the M50 & DT 990, are borderline basshead lite cans.  Some including the M50 and DT 880 are bright.  The HD 598 is a very good can but is a full tier below the classic HD 600 & 650.

 

Going out on a limb, it's my bet that you will end up with the Senn or the Shure, although they do not fit your specific sound signature well at all.  They both live int the mids and are easy on the ears.  Neither is bassy and many consider them to be bass light.

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post #25128 of 28712
2/21/13 at 2:25pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by reddyxm View Post

Good day!

 

First time poster. I am very new to the audio scene and have been doing some research. Currently I am using cheap $20 headphones for music, movies and gaming on my PC.

 

Budget: Up to $500 for headphones and $300 for Amp/DAC

Will be used for: Music, Gaming, Movies

Listen to: All types of genres but mainly Classical, Pop, Rock, Country

Primary music preference: Classical and vocal music

 

Im not much into bass so something easy on my ears that will be smooth and crisp.

 

These will used at home on my PC.

I don't mind sound leaking. From reviews I've read, open-air has a more natural sound?

 

Thank you very much for your time!

 

-Reddy


The Classic cans with your budget are Beyer DT 880, Senn HD 600 & 650 and Grado RS 2i.  To that add the new comer, the HiFiMan HE 400.

 

Read about all of the here:

 

http://www.head-fi.org/t/634201/battle-of-the-flagships-57-headphones-compared-update-hifiman-he-400-added-12-24-12

 

You need to select your can first and then decide on your amp/dac that works well with it.


Edited by KG Jag - 2/21/13 at 2:28pm
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post #25129 of 28712
2/21/13 at 2:40pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by molnart View Post

Guys, I am shopping for a new headphone to be used for my computer. Mostly music (rock/metal) and ocassionally video games.

My requirements are the following:
- circumaural, so my whole ears fit inside
- good sound isolation (my pc is in the bedroom, and i'd like to be able to listen to loud music when my GF is asleep)
- durable (my headphones tend to fall of the table quite often and the plastics tend to break)
- not very sensitive - not sure how to explain this, but i have the Senns HD485, and i hear a lot of interference from my PC in them, while other cheaper headphones are dead silent
- replacable coiled cable would be a plus
- price range below 100 euros

Any ideas? I've been looking at the Sony MDR-V6, but they are not available in Slovakia and i also guess that they would be too small for my ears. The Audio-technica ATH-M30 is one of the candidates but it dont think it has replacable cables.

Thanks


A few preliminary questions first.  Your cans are fairly old and it sounds like they have visited the floor a few times.  Have you tried your Senns on other equipment to see if the same problem exists?  If so they are likely damaged.  Have you tried another decent headphone with your computer?  If they also give you problems, the issue is likely with your computer, which I'm guessing just has only on board audio and not a sound card.  That problem could also be that the computer audio set-up is not powerful enough to drive the Senns (I don't know their Ohm and sensitivity ratings).

 

Describe the sound signature that you are seeking?


Edited by KG Jag - 2/21/13 at 2:49pm
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post #25130 of 28712
2/21/13 at 2:45pm

Hi there,

 

I have been doing some research on the DT 880 Pro (250Ohms) and the HE-400 headphones

I am about to make a decision on which I will target.

I was looking at which of those two would be most cost-effective and have decent bass impact for songs like Dubstep and movies where bass needs to be there but not in droves.

 

Anyone know/tried both and have an opinion?

 

thanks

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post #25131 of 28712
2/21/13 at 2:52pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by KG Jag View Post


A few preliminary questions first.  Your cans are fairly old and it sounds like they have visit the floor a few times.  Have your tried your Senns on other equipment to see if the same problem exists.  If so they are likely damaged.  Have you tried another decent headphone with your computer.  If they also give you problems, the issue is likely with your computer, which I'm guessing just has only on board audio and not a sound card.  That problem could also be that the computer audio set-up is not powerful enough to drive the Senns (I don't know their Ohm and sensitivity ratings).

Describe the sound signature that you are seeking?

thanks for the reply. well the HD485's had that noise from day one, but only on some computers (both of my desktops with mainboard sound card), but worked well on all laptops that i tried. I am aware that the problem originated in the computer (i could cleary hear the mouse moving in the earphones), however there are clearly some kind of phones which are resistant to those freqs. Regarding sound signature, i prefer a balanced sound with present but not heavy bass and clear highs, however during the past i have realised that headphone ergonomics is more important to my overall listening experience than sound quality (as long as the SQ is not total **** of course). also i don't expect audiophile output in the <100 euro price range.
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post #25132 of 28712
2/21/13 at 2:56pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by roguegeek View Post

 

Yeah, I know the closed-back is clashing with my want for an airy can. I'm not really asking for a closed-back can with the airiness of the K702. Rather, I think I'm asking for a closed headphone that is relatively airy. The D5000 is out of my budget for the time being. I've heard the K550 are rather airy for a closed-back set. That's one I will be looking into. That's a bit sad to hear about the DT770 because I've read the soundstage is quite nice on them.

 

Any other suggestions?


Yes.  The airiest closed-back can I know is the Ortofon O-One.  Its bass level is just a little higher than that of the AD700, which you are well familiar with.

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post #25133 of 28712
2/21/13 at 3:24pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by KG Jag View Post


With your very detailed and specific requirements and very specific hearing issues, there is no substitute for you listening to all the cans that you are serious about buying.

 

I will add that you have picked a very mixed bag of sound signatures in the list of cans that you have listed.  A couple, the M50 & DT 990, are borderline basshead lite cans.  Some including the M50 and DT 880 are bright.  The HD 598 is a very good can but is a full tier below the classic HD 600 & 650.

 

Going out on a limb, it's my bet that you will end up with the Senn or the Shure, although they do not fit your specific sound signature well at all.  They both live int the mids and are easy on the ears.  Neither is bassy and many consider them to be bass light.

I admit I was leaning toward the Senn HD 598, but have also heard a number of reviews that indicated the Beyer DTs are very comfortable (is this true of the Pro series also?).

 

- What about DAC/AMP? Does one stand out that would be a good choice regardless of the final choice from that grouping?

 

- Any other Cans I should be considering?

 

- Trying them... hmmm... not sure where a good local place is to try each of those since the closure of 'Hifi Buys'. Any National chains known for having a demo rack set up with this class of headphones? (I know the two Best Buys near me don't have these on rack)

Reply
post #25134 of 28712
2/21/13 at 3:40pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by CapTinnitus View Post

I am looking to replace some cans that have done me pretty good for about 6 years (Sony MDR's).

 

Budget: Up to $1000 - to include HPhones + DAC/AMP (if needed... which it likely will be)

 

Music: I listen to a wide variety of music with a combination of lossless and slight compression. In order of frequency; Alternative Rock and Metal, Techno/House/Dub/Dance, Trip Hop, Top 40, Jazz and Smooth Jazz (old and new), Classical, Theatrical Soundtracks, 60's - current Popular, Country, Big Band 30's-40's, Hymn and Choir, and even a Mozart Opera once in a while.

 

Movies: All types from DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming media, but with a focus on Action Adventure and Sci-Fi - Matrix and Star Wars to Phantom of the Opera

 

Games: PC big titles and PS3/PS4 - PC has SB PCIe 24 bit w/Platinum front of case Connection Bay - PS3/4 optical audio and HDMIv2/3

 

Interested In: Full-sized cans. Open or semi-open are fine. Sound isolation or canceling not needed. Good frequency response (roughly 15Hz-30kHz) with a THD less than .7db or so. Wired not wireless and with a minimum cord length (overall) of roughly 3m/10ft.

 

Sound: As my name suggests, I do suffer from moderate tinnitus, but it only becomes exacerbated with too much "schrill" or volume across extended periods. Unfortunately, I also suffer slight hearing impairment at some frequencies, but most notably in the audible range. Surprisingly though, I have a good ear for pitch/clarity when the sound is "delivered properly" to me.

 

I love my Music and Movies so having audio that "delivers properly" is important to me.

Lows - should be dynamic and punchy but not overwhelming and wild so as to drown out details of the upper frequencies.

Highs - can not be shrill, but need to be smooth and crisp

Mids - I prefer the "V" on music I listen to most frequently, so while I don't need exaggerated mids, they must be clean, smooth, and strong for the audible frequencies for me to enjoy dialogue and soft music at all volume ranges. This has been my biggest problem with the Sony's that are on the fritz, I frequently had to adjust volume down for the action, and up to hear talking with Movies.

 

Comfort: This is a big one for me as I frequently use them and across what can be very long periods (upwards of 12-16 hrs). I tend to run hot so generally prefer cloth/soft ear coverings that breath a little. Cans should have enough room for my whole med sized ears with minimal pressure, and be of a size small enough to accommodate my size 7-1/4 s-m head. I'm pushing 50 so my hair is thinning on top, so I don't care for the feel of hard plastic on my head. I must note that I detest both too much clamp or sweating in my ears. My typical environment is a nice comfy easy-chair.

 

I have been considering a bunch of choices, but depending on where I look, the ratings are all over the place. These will primarily be used for Music and Movies, and only used for PC gaming as I have a pretty good pair of Turtle Beach Earforce PX21s I use for PS3/4 gaming.

 

Here is my current short list and would love to hear from you folks on your recommendations -- particularly if I don't have one on my list a should have:

 

- Beyerdynamic DT 880 or 990 (250 ohm)

- Sennheiser HD 598 (specs look pretty close to the $$$ HD 600 and HD 650's)

- Audio-Technica ATH-M50 PSM

- Shure SRH1440

 

And which wired DAC/ Desk-top-amp would you want to pair with them?

 

Thank you!

 

Most Beyerdynamics are terribly shrill and bright in the 5-15kHz range where most people experience tinnitus, I'd avoid those.  As a general rule, spend more on the headphone than the amp for the best sound quality.  HD600 have a wonderful, gentle non-fatiguing sound that is unmatched by any other headphone under $500 imo.  A simple, neutral solid state amp will do nicely (e.g. O2), avoid a tube amp, it will make their sound too soft & syrupy.

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post #25135 of 28712
2/21/13 at 3:55pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by KG Jag View Post


Here's the thing: if you like the sound signature of the DT 770 & 990, your right on the border of being a basshead lite.  Cans that are in that neighborhood are not airy (even relatively--when compared to neutral-ish and even near neutral-ish cans).  They are not good all-arounders--most have recessed mids and even those that don't have too much bass emphasis (perhaps another way to say recess mids & treble relative to bass) to be good with many/most genres.

 

Bottom line--you need to pick on which side of the divide you want to be.  With the Denons discontinued, there's really not much, if any, middle ground.

 

Ok. I can live with that. In that case, I believe I'm looking for closed-back headphones that are neutral and airy. Is that a better way to put it?

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post #25136 of 28712
2/21/13 at 4:08pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by MarcoGV View Post


Yes.  The airiest closed-back can I know is the Ortofon O-One.  Its bass level is just a little higher than that of the AD700, which you are well familiar with.

 

Keep in mind I'm learning here. The way I read that is that the bass still doesn't even get back to neutral on those since it's sooo recessed on the AD700. Would you consider the O-One to be a neutral headphone? I think I'm starting to get some of this terminology down and I think I'm looking for a neutral closed-back headphone that has a relatively large soundstage... I think.

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post #25137 of 28712
2/21/13 at 4:10pm

Are there any closed cans under 400 that excel in treble and mid range. I already have a bass heavy can so I'm looking for something to compliment it. My only requirements are that it's closed and some what portable. I've looked and I havn't found hardly any closed headphones around the 400 dollar mark. If anyone would like to help I'd greatly appreciate it.

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post #25138 of 28712
2/21/13 at 4:51pm

I'm considering buying either the Beyerdynamic DT 880 or AKG K550, however I'm open to any full-sized cans around the $200-$350 range. A little above my price limit isn't too bad if it makes a large difference. biggrin.gif

 

I love to listen to most music from trip-hop to grindcore, but I'd say most of the music I listen to is electric-guitar oriented. The most important part of what I'm looking for is clarity and soundstage. I loved how clear and sharp the K550 sounded, but after using a pair of Audiotechnica m50s for so long, I wish it had a more powerful bass response.

 

 

Also, how much isolation do the DT 880s give? I know this is a dumb question, but seeing as they are semi open, I'm curious how easy normally audible noises from my neighbors will be with these on. Any unwanted noises were completely inaudible with the ATH m50s on

 

 

other info: high bitrate mp3s / lossless music for home use is my main use. I normally use my headphones for hours at a time, so comfort is moderately important. 

 

Thanks!

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post #25139 of 28712
2/21/13 at 4:53pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by CapTinnitus View Post

Quote:
Originally Posted by KG Jag View Post


With your very detailed and specific requirements and very specific hearing issues, there is no substitute for you listening to all the cans that you are serious about buying.

 

I will add that you have picked a very mixed bag of sound signatures in the list of cans that you have listed.  A couple, the M50 & DT 990, are borderline basshead lite cans.  Some including the M50 and DT 880 are bright.  The HD 598 is a very good can but is a full tier below the classic HD 600 & 650.

 

Going out on a limb, it's my bet that you will end up with the Senn or the Shure, although they do not fit your specific sound signature well at all.  They both live int the mids and are easy on the ears.  Neither is bassy and many consider them to be bass light.

I admit I was leaning toward the Senn HD 598, but have also heard a number of reviews that indicated the Beyer DTs are very comfortable (is this true of the Pro series also?).

 

- What about DAC/AMP? Does one stand out that would be a good choice regardless of the final choice from that grouping?

 

- Any other Cans I should be considering?

 

- Trying them... hmmm... not sure where a good local place is to try each of those since the closure of 'Hifi Buys'. Any National chains known for having a demo rack set up with this class of headphones? (I know the two Best Buys near me don't have these on rack)


The 598 is considered to be very comfortable by most.  The DT 880 is also, but the cups are too small for some.  The Pro has a firmer clamp, which might or might not be a issue for you.

 

Again the amp/dac needs to be matched to your headphone for the best results, and your situation might not be typical.  I am an amp only guy, as I listen mostly to CD's amd vinyl.  So others, perhaps in the computer audio section of the forum might provide helpful advice with regard t o the dac side of the equation.

 

You don't include your location with your posts.  However, most large and many medium sized cites--and even some smaller ones--have one or more higher end audio stores that can help.

 

Most people (and your mileage may vary) would probably find the Senns already discussed, the 1440, the HE 400 and closed Shure SRH 940 to be smooth on the ears.

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post #25140 of 28712
2/21/13 at 4:56pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by roguegeek View Post

Quote:
Originally Posted by KG Jag View Post


Here's the thing: if you like the sound signature of the DT 770 & 990, your right on the border of being a basshead lite.  Cans that are in that neighborhood are not airy (even relatively--when compared to neutral-ish and even near neutral-ish cans).  They are not good all-arounders--most have recessed mids and even those that don't have too much bass emphasis (perhaps another way to say recess mids & treble relative to bass) to be good with many/most genres.

 

Bottom line--you need to pick on which side of the divide you want to be.  With the Denons discontinued, there's really not much, if any, middle ground.

 

Ok. I can live with that. In that case, I believe I'm looking for closed-back headphones that are neutral and airy. Is that a better way to put it?


The Shure SRH 940 is one.  The Audio Technica ATH-W1000x woodie might work for you too.

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Head-Fi.org › Forums › Equipment Forums › Headphones (full-size) › ++ FULL-SIZE HEADPHONE RECOMMENDATIONS THREAD++ i.e. Don't start a new thread: ask for advice HERE! [Please read OP]