Best Headphones for $300

I have the AD1000 and the HD 598. The AD1000 is very lively, but lean bass. The HD 598 has solid bass and the sound is more laid back compared to the AD1000. Both are very comfortable. You'll be wearing for the whole day without noticing their weight.

I would say either the hd558/hd598 (very similar) or the ad900 since your taking the unamped route. While on the topic of good headphones that don't rely on amping why don't you check out some beyerdynamic dt880's (32 ohm) or some grado sr225i's if your really into rock.

 

I personally recommend either the hd558 or dt880 as those are the one's that I prefer from the list taking the lack of an amp into consideration. I believe the hd598s are extremely similar but cost alot more because of the wood accents and general makeover. The hd558's would certainly be more fun though since your going to use them for gaming, the dt880s can be quite sterile in comparison although I have not personally tried the 32 ohm version.

 

I hope that helps! 

Also since your budget is $300 and many of the headphone's you listed are within the $200 range why not take the plunge for a $100 FiiO e7 DAC/portable amp while your at it? It would greatly improve the sound and investment of your new headphones for both home and on the go use!

 

Plus if you ever upscale and find yourself in need of stronger amping you could then pay the extra $120 for the e9 to pair with your e7!

Just wanted to suggest the AH-D2000 since they can be found within you budget and they work very well for both music and gaming.

+1 for hd 598
because they are opened it is better if you use a microphone, you can hear what you say (closed cans with good isolation it s weird when talking)
Very comfortable for long listening periods
Good sounding and all rounder headphones

Denon D-2000.
To be honest, if you don't have/buy an amp or a good soundcard, you're wasting your money.

Im also in the same boat as this guy wanting a upgrade in the same price range.  

 

A few weeks ago I purchased some m50's as my first set of cams.  Its already time to upgrade.  I have a fiio e7 coming in the mail and some Shure 840 Replacement Ear pads for my m50's but I want a nicer sounding set of cams that are very plush on the ears as ill be wearing them for 6-8 hour shifts at work, 5 days a week.  (I think my right ear has a ear infection going on with it right now, maybe due to the moisture buildup.)

 

Id like a pair of that would sound really good with Sonic Youth's - Murray Street cd

 

My only concern with open air headphones is will the guy in the cubicle 5ft away hear what im listening to?  also the office can get pretty noise with keyboard smashing.

 

I guess I should throw in that my current mp3 player is a ipod touch 3rd gen.

 

Anymore recommendations?

Thanks

Edited by tattare - 5/12/11 at 1:08am

at loud volume YES it s gonna leak

It depends what you're plugging them into... if it's a good source I'd recommend something bright and detailed, alternatively if it's a poor source something bass heavy and colored would give you a better sound.

What are the thoughts on the D1100 for rock/alternative/a little jazz?  I've heard that the D2000 are awesome, but they're slightly out of my budget.

 

Thanks

 

I've got the HD598 and AD1000 for sale if you're still interested?