Grado HF-1's is all I know/own. In order to properly supplement/complement them, what would you...

I currently own a pair of Grado HF-1's, which I adore. A good 50%+ of what I listen to is Rock and Metal, while the remaining is broken down into Classical, Jazz, Hip-Hop and Electronica.

Although it handles all of the above quite well, I dont feel they are optimal for Classical and Electronic music, as they are too upfront and lack some of the soundstage that (i think) I should be looking for.

So, where to next?

My parameters:

1. Definitely want full-sized, over the ear, open style
2. Comfort is paramount as I tend to listen to classical and/or electronics for hours on end
3. I do not own an amp and would ideally like something that doesnt immediately require an amp to run, altho am open to it if its within my budget
4. Soundstage is key; id like something fairly neutral with minimal coloring yet I do not want to sacrifice anything in the low end
5. Budget is $500, although if I can come in below that, i'm a happy camper.

What should I be looking for in a headphone that will give me a different listening experience than the Grado sound and, provide me with some of what I am looking for above?

Your suggestions and input are most appreciated!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gwarmi 

 

2nd hand HD600 or DT880 250ohm/600ohm + Audio GD-NFB-5 Dac/Amp = $500USD

 

I don't know of a headphone that throws a decent soundstage for classical that does not require an amp,

 

Only two really come into the picture ~ Audio Technica AD700 and AD900.

 

I'd go the AD900 if you're hell bent on staying amp-less 

Thanks.

Dont they make the DT880's in 32ohms?

The AT900 have great reviews and appear to carry the best soundstage in the sub 500 range.
 

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gwarmi 

They do make the DT880 in 32ohm but it's unloved sibling in that family line-up, it's not marked on

the box out here in Australia (why I'll never know) but in Germany they label the boxes for the

DT880 and DT990 accordingly,

 

32ohm ~ Consumer

250ohm ~ Professional

600ohm ~ Audiophile

 

Ask around and you'll get general consensus for the 600 ohms, I don't think the DT880-250ohm is a bad

can though ~ quite nice, leans towards the bright-side.

 

The AD900 has that typical AT' sweetness throughout the range, it's impressive for the price.

Understood.

I consider myself an audiophile but will I really be able to tell the difference in sound quality between 250 and 600ohms, keeping in mind that I do not have alot of money for an amp?

Further, does the latter require a more powerful, expensive amp to run?

Ive never owned another high end headphone other than my Grados so im thinking it might be prudent to start with the 32's, skip the amp for now and upgrade later as my ears become more finicky?

Im a little confused with this whole OHMs thing...

Finally, what does "semi-open" mean? I really do prefer the airiness of an open HP. Am I sacrificing any soundstage when going with a semi-open HP?