V-Moda M-80 or Audio Technica M50?

I'd get the M-80 just because of the reported durability and the chance to get customized ear cup shields later down the road. The M50 was flavor of the month for a long time, and while it's still considered good it's sort of fallen out of favor with many. If you like bass, you might want to look at the cheaper V-Moda LP, which is bassier but supposedly not as good overall.

No amp needed, worry about that later on. The need for external amps and DACs is highly exaggerated here.

I like my m50s!!! mememe!

Though heavier bass, probably the V-modas would be a better choice.

I have no clue where the whole idea of M50s being bassy came from. At most they have a 5db boost at 110hz (bare in mind that it is appropriate for headphones to have a bass boost at that range as they lack the visecral feel of speakers).

They aren't neutral. They're natural. They sure as hell aren't basshead headphones.

Quote:

Originally Posted by TotalDominAsian 

Stumbled onto this website while doing some research over headphones. I think I have it narrowed down to these similarly priced headphones, but which is more recommended? While I listen to a variety of music, I do prefer heavier bass. Which is more comfortable?

 

I also keep hearing mentions of amplifiers. I've never used an amplifier before, but do these require one? How much do amplifiers run for? I'll probably just use these headphones at home only. $200 also does not leave me much room for an amplifier budget.

Heya,

The M80 is phenomenal for it's size. If you're looking for something very bass capable, smooth, crisp, and easy to listen to for every genre, the M80 will do it with justice. It's also built very well. It has no need for an amplifier at all, so your budget won't have to include that. It's very portable and customizable. VModa is really pushing the market these days by introducing better and better products with incredible sound (the Crossfade LP was a stinker in my opinion, but the M80 is a home run and their upcoming fullsize that is the compliment to the M80, if anything like it, will be an amazing headphone). If you want on-ear and portable, the M80 is a great way to go. Sonically, it's way more pleasing to me than the M50 (which is an expensive mediocre headphone as far as I'm concerned).

Very best,

Originally Posted by ViralRazor 

I have no clue where the whole idea of M50s being bassy came from. At most they have a 5db boost at 110hz (bear in mind that it is appropriate for headphones to have a bass boost at that range as they lack the visecral feel of speakers).

 

They aren't neutral. They're natural. They sure as hell aren't basshead headphones.

I agree.

They excel at low volumes, with zero output impedance (0 Zout) amps, and (IMO) with the pads enhanced for much more comfort and soundspace. Nice ability to resolve highs and lows at low volume settings, nice compromise of dynamics and detail, really good comfort with mods.

The ATH-M50s are very natural headphones with tight but not overpowering bass. The frequency response is quite flat and the music is usually true to sound so they may not be the best option for you. I can't speak from experience with the V-Modas but they might be the better choice here.