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post #3241 of 4825
3/14/13 at 6:22pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Chimecho View Post

Are there any other IEMs similar in sound and price? These ones look great and after your suggestion, I've read some more reviews and have taken a liking to them. But I'd also like to draw a more detailed comparison. How would the EPH-100, GR07 and the SE215 compare to the XBA-30? Thanks.

 

The GR07 are the only ones that can even compare. The EPH100 play electronic music very very well, but that's all they have on the XBA-30. Otherwise they are outclassed in pure sound quality. The SE215 even more so. Now I haven't heard the GR07 but FWIR, they seem more neutral and not as warm as the XBA-30. Probably not as bass heavy either.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by FrequencyBlue View Post

So I am looking at these 3 IEMs:

 Sony MDR-XB90EX

 JVC HA-FXT90

 ATH CKN70

 

Say, I really love my SHE3580 mostly because of the bright sound and the sub-bass, which of these should I pick if I want a similar sound signature?

 

CKN70. Or maybe the XB90EX, if you absolutely love sub bass. They are not bright though.

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Gear mentioned in this thread:

post #3242 of 4825
3/14/13 at 11:37pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Zalithian View Post


People need to get over this IEMS and wide soundstage thing, especially on a lower budget. That's really just not happening. Haven't heard the SRH840 but I think I remember them being closed, so their soundstage probably isn't great either. That said, the GR07 is pretty balanced with decent vocals. "Soundstage" on them is pretty good for IEMS but nothing spectacular. The 262 were the best mids I heard under $200 in IEMS. The 215's should satisfy your bass cravings, but their clarity leaves something to be desired. On the plus side they isolate well and have a removable cable. EPH-100, I think people liked the bass on that and thought it was good for trance. PFE112's are good too, but discontinued and maybe a little overpriced these days with all the new offerings.

I disagree. For example, the IE7 was easily under 200 USD before they were discontinued and having owned them, I can say that the soundstage was very wide. Wider than many closed cans I've heard, though of course not as wide as an open back (i.e. directly comparing to a HD598).

As for the recommendation: I was thinking eq-5 at first due to the supposed similarities and slightly more impactful bass compared to the re262. Howrver, on second thought they may still lack the bass impact you're looking for, especially without eq'ing the bass. Maybe Twinqy can chip in to compare?
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post #3243 of 4825
3/14/13 at 11:51pm

Hello, long time lurker here looking for some advice.  I smacked my head but good on the frame of my car door and destroyed my TF10 remolds and need new all-around IEMs.  Of  the ones I think are potentially suitable, I am looking for something with above average build quality.  I am very careful but do use them daily, take them in and out frequently and just hate when something like this breaks because of shoddy fabrication (the cables on the TFs I had to replace several times until I smartened up and order one from Westone). 

 

My listening habits are ½ music, ½ talk (podcasts & audiobooks) but I do want the phones to be music oriented. Musical preference is mostly alternative like Radiohead & Portishead, vocalists like Tori Amos and rock like Foo Fighters.  Less often some metal, pop, opera, country and I never listen to rap, techno or trance.  The sound isolation with the usual silicon or foam tips is adequate for my needs but I did find the sound and comfort of the TF silicon preferable to the foam before I had them remolded.

 

I like bass but prefer it to be well-defined and am not really a 'basshead'.  The relative weakness in the mids is what I did not like so much about the TF10s.  I also really like good separation, vocal quality, clarity and some warmness.  I had the er6i and found them to be very uncomfortable and did not like the sound at all so I think the analytical style will not suit my taste. 

 

I was thinking something along the e-Q5 or GR07 BE would be a good fit but am unsure of the build quality of the VSonic and the vocal clarity of the Ortofon.  I am also considering the MG7 but have concerns about the build quality for this too; I just want the darned things to last.  If I understand correctly the HiFiMan sets are analytical so did not include them here but am keeping an open mind about anything as long as it’s within budget, fits the preferences outlined and is solidly built.  I will also probably buy a Fiio e6 amp to experiment with in case that benefits one set over another. 

 

The budget is up to $200 for the IEMs.

 

I read a bunch of threads which led me to the above choices but I wanted input on the above issues and preferences so thanks for any help or consideration. 

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post #3244 of 4825
3/15/13 at 1:16am
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Quote:
Originally Posted by warkittens View Post

Hey guys, I'm looking for a new pair of IEMs $50 or less and I am totally stuck in analysis paralysis. For the last year or so I have used Klipsch S2s and I thought these were really the best things since sliced bread. However, I noticed that vocals would get lost a lot of the time, and the reviews citing these IEMs as confused is correct. When it comes to music, I listen to absolutely everything, so me telling you what I like won't work. What I can say is that number one, I am hard on my IEMs so the build quality has to be very good. The reason I am looking for new phones is because one side of my S2s is dead and this is the way my headphones usually die.

 

Number two, I do not like sibilance at all. It is like nails on a chalkboard for me. Clear treble, absolutely, but when it starts to get harsh I have to stop listening. If I look at how I adjust my EQ settings, It is a mix of warm and bass. The sound I want is hard to get at my price point, I want bass, but not boomy bass. Is it possible to have tight, punchy bass that might extend into sub bass? I don't like muddy sounding anything. I will also be using these for my laptop so that includes gaming and watching Youtube videos. So a clear, detailed mid is also important. I know I am asking for the stars here, but I am hoping there's a compromise somewhere. 

 

I am currently wavering between the VSonic VC02 and the Astrotec AM-50, but I am open to suggestions. I love the idea of the VC02s because of the detachable cable and the idea that they are detailed. I'm really wondering about the bass response on them. The song "Diamond" by Klint is a real great example of how I want my sound to work together. http://www.last.fm/music/Klint/_/Diamond The bass is strong, with resonance, but it is also very detailed. There's highs that have the potential to be sibilant, and the mids around the 3:00 mark add another layer that can complicate things. I want to be able to listen to this track, really experience the low bass without it being muddy but not have it overshadow everything else. 

 

So that's my story and I'm sticking to it. What are your recommendations? I don't mind that I won't find the perfect IEM in this price bracket, I just want something good that is going to be an overall performer because of being mostly used on my laptop without having to sacrifice too much low end. Thanks so much for any insights!

Build, smooth treble, warm, but clear. It does sound like how people are describing the VC02 but can't say much from personal experience. 

 

The criteria regarding bass extension might be a hit-or-miss sort of deal with this budget. Only thing I can think of that fits EVERYTHING you're describing is the UE900...and that's just slightly over the top. Perhaps the GR04 could be another compromise. Slightly warm, decent clarity and smoothness.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by elpsycongroo View Post

Thank you very much for the reply. I'll check them out.  
Also, has anyone tried the Brainwavz M3, Vsonic GR06, Vsonic VC02, or the Sony MH1-C? I've been looking around but I can't find how these compare with each other, especially in terms of soundstage.

M3 - Very much balanced, smooth, like a less forward version of the M2.

GR06 - Very mid-centric, slight roll-off on both ends. Great center imaging and stage size would be second only to the Sonys between the 3

Have not heard the VC02 :(

MH1C - Very bass-oriented, some might say overly warm, globs of detail and sub-bass. Deep stage, very 3-dimensional.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Hugh Jundys View Post

I am looking for my first pair of IEMs.  I have been bitten by this audio bug.  This is my second headphone purchase this month.  I am looking for something different than what I have now.

 

Budget -$200

Music- 70s and 80s Rock

 

I don't know enough yet to know exactly what I want but I consider this my expermental stage anyway.  This will be the road to find out what I want.

 

Currently I own two set of headphones, the only decent ones I have ever owned.  They are the ATH A-700 and ATH A-900.

 

I like them both.  They sound wonderful to me in the upper ranges.  I wish they had more bass.  The bass isn't horrible it just seems quiet or not as hard hitting as my ears seem to yearn for.

 

So I guess this first pair of IEM's should be bassy and sound good listening to Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac, and Rush.  

 

I don't mind new or used, I do enjoy getting a deal but am always willing to pay extra for "the best".

 

What should I be looking at?

Slightly bassier, classic rock - GR07 should definitely be looked at. Treble is present with some sparkle, but also warm, pleasing, yet very dynamic with rock in general. Any balanced all-rounder would do fine in this case, but the VSonics will probably do better to the point where I'll have to single it out.

 

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Neonium View Post

Recently bought the Hifiman RE-262, but due to some great misfortune, I've had to send them back. The midrange on those earphones is what I really enjoyed from what I can recall, but I felt that the bass could use a little more kick to it. Maybe it's just my poorly educated ears or it was the unit itself. Nonetheless, I've read some reviews about the SE215 Limited Edition and have heard great remarks about EPH-100 and GR-07. I'm hoping that someone here can give me a concise comparison between these three earphones. Or if there are any IEMs along similar lines worth investing in; I've got a little more than $200 towards a new pair of IEMs. I also own the SRH840 whose sound signature satisfies me thus far. But in terms of these IEMs, I'm hoping for a wide soundstage with a bass similar to the SRH840 or a little 'bassier' without leaking into the midrange, and overall, IEMs that really bring out vocals.

Have not heard the limited edition

EPH-100 - very much bass and mid oriented, warmth might be jarring. Overall just another smooth, extremely lush presentation, with isolation second only to Etys.

GR07 - slightly warm, more treble presence than the Yamahas. Great texture and kick, dynamics and timbre are top notch. Overall just a rounded-off technical beast with a warm satisfying sig.

 

If you're looking for a SRH840-sound-alike, can't recommend the PFE122s enough. Bass filters would probably do what you want to the bass. Mids are slightly forward, very clean and smooth. Tonality is overall quite similar to the Shures. Something else that would be slightly bassier (or would appear to, since the Shure do have a bit of roll-off) would be the IE800s.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by traehekat View Post

I have been using the B&W P5's as my portable headphone since last summer and I am pretty happy with them. Unfortunately, my dog got after them and now I need to replace both ear pads, which will end up costing around ~$90 with shipping. I am wondering, however, if any of you think it would be worth it to spring for a new set of portable headphones, i.e. HD 25, DT 1350, V-MODA Crossfade, etc. I will probably replace the ear pads no matter what, but I'm wondering if anyone has any opinions on whether there are some other portable headphones out there in the $200-300 range that are so much better than the P5's that they would be worth looking into. 

If you like the sig, the rest aren't really upgrades in the conventional sense. Oh sure maybe the Senns are a bit clearer, or maybe the M-80s do have better midrange detail and balance. But those aren't clear upgrades in terms of sheer technicalities. Plenty of people enjoy the B&Ws for what they are, and all I can say to if it ain't broke don't fix it :)

 

If I had to give in, would also look at the Momentums for a similar sig but with less grain, more smoothness and detail. Still not a significant upgrade though. 

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Tehol View Post

Hello, long time lurker here looking for some advice.  I smacked my head but good on the frame of my car door and destroyed my TF10 remolds and need new all-around IEMs.  Of  the ones I think are potentially suitable, I am looking for something with above average build quality.  I am very careful but do use them daily, take them in and out frequently and just hate when something like this breaks because of shoddy fabrication (the cables on the TFs I had to replace several times until I smartened up and order one from Westone). 

 

My listening habits are ½ music, ½ talk (podcasts & audiobooks) but I do want the phones to be music oriented. Musical preference is mostly alternative like Radiohead & Portishead, vocalists like Tori Amos and rock like Foo Fighters.  Less often some metal, pop, opera, country and I never listen to rap, techno or trance.  The sound isolation with the usual silicon or foam tips is adequate for my needs but I did find the sound and comfort of the TF silicon preferable to the foam before I had them remolded.

 

I like bass but prefer it to be well-defined and am not really a 'basshead'.  The relative weakness in the mids is what I did not like so much about the TF10s.  I also really like good separation, vocal quality, clarity and some warmness.  I had the er6i and found them to be very uncomfortable and did not like the sound at all so I think the analytical style will not suit my taste. 

 

I was thinking something along the e-Q5 or GR07 BE would be a good fit but am unsure of the build quality of the VSonic and the vocal clarity of the Ortofon.  I am also considering the MG7 but have concerns about the build quality for this too; I just want the darned things to last.  If I understand correctly the HiFiMan sets are analytical so did not include them here but am keeping an open mind about anything as long as it’s within budget, fits the preferences outlined and is solidly built.  I will also probably buy a Fiio e6 amp to experiment with in case that benefits one set over another. 

 

The budget is up to $200 for the IEMs.

 

I read a bunch of threads which led me to the above choices but I wanted input on the above issues and preferences so thanks for any help or consideration. 

 

Good build, separation, more mids, warm, clear, vocals - Yep this time I can definitely rec the Ortofons. Enjoying them on all of the criteria that you're listing. Build on the VSonics are fine, not much to worry about. Some of the most solid and rigid (in a good sense) plastic on an IEM to date. Would cross the Atrios off, not the most stand-out mids, not even the least bit forward as well (build is fine). Probably should not take the TF10 as a benchmark for build against everything, they are exceptionally bad in this case, and well-known for it.

 

Would also look at the BA200 in this case as they fit most of what you're looking for quite nicely. 

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by erdembayulkeaq View Post

Yo i just stumbled on this site while looking for some in EAR not canal headphone. I listen to progressive house mainly (the real one). I have used 2 headphones so far Sennheiser CX 300ii(hate it cause its in ear canal) and AKG K315(my fav and bought 2 broke 2). So it'd be nice if you guys could link me to a good in ear headphone thats better than the cx300.
I also wonder what you guys think of the k315 and the cx300 ii.
Anyway thanks in advance.

Just realized I quoted this but have not heard the AKGs in this case and have no reference essentially.

 

The usual criteria for recs still stand - sound preference, isolation, build, comfort a factor?

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Aoi-chan View Post

which one out of these for a budget of $100 (although, lower the better biggrin.gif ) -

Sinnature Acoustics C-12 - $45
Brainwavz M2 ($60)
Brainwavz M5 (getting 2 for $45)
Velodyne Vpulse ( $100)
Audiofly AF45 ($60)
Audiofly AF56 ($100)
SoundMagic E30
Hifiman RE-400 (read some reviews, they say these are best sub $100)
Thinksound Ts02 ($100)

going to use them with either Clip+ or Fuse+.
I like punchy, accurate bass and clear vocals.
I listen to a very wide variety of genres, so mentioning them is of no use,

Looking forward for your help.

Punchy, accurate, clarity - first off cross off the Thinksounds and M2/M5 (especially the M5), as those are not what they're attempting to do. Those are warm, lush, smooth-sounding phones right there.

Have not heard the Audioflys, sorry :( 

 

Probably the RE-400s and VC02 are most worthy of a look at, have not either as well (geez I sound stupid) but reviews and impressions all point to these.

 

Can personally vouch for the E30 for clarity and accuracy though. The PFE012, UE700, R-30 (or 50 if you mind a loss in bass for more clarity), or the HF5 might also do the trick.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by rantrile View Post

1) I'm looking for in-ear that will have a good "subwoofer" and bass like vpulse (according to the reviews, as I actually didn't try one).

2) It should be comfortable as Sennheiser cx-200 that allows to sleep. It because the body of this in-ear is short, so when you place your head on the pillow it doesn't push it inside. I do have E10 and I cannot sleep with them or lie down listening to music if my head is on the side.

3) Efficiency should be at least 100db, better if 110db. That's also the reason I'm hesitating about Vpulse as they say they are 92db. Since E10 is 100db I wonder why velodyne cannot create in-ear with at least the efficiency of the chinese manufacturer.

4) Analog volume control. I don't really like the digital volume control and I don't understand the people who like it. I prefer to choose exactly the volume I like. In many phones or other devices the stepping is pretty rough. So I either get a volume too high from what I would like or too low. So the best scenario for me, is that I would set a maximum volume at whatever device I'm using for listening and use the analog wheel to control the volume in the headset. I assume that volume wheel should be in one body with mic and controls.

5) And it should have a mic to be used with apple/android devices.

 

Of course it must have good sound - lows, mids and highs. I think I would prefer clear, very detailed music with wide soundstage, however I'm just a virgin here. :)

 

Price 30$ - 150$.

Already gave a reply in other thread, shame on me for quoting this.

Quote:
Originally Posted by xkonfuzed View Post

Hey :) 

Im looking for a portable on-ear headphone that sounds good with electronic music and occasionally some hip-hop.

Im also gonna work out and jog with them on a lot.

I had the SOL Republic Tracks HD previously but i gave them to my brother who needed them desperately so now im looking for a better alternative.

Price range: Under 200 dollars.

Sound preference?

 

But for electronic/hip-hop

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by angrybeaver View Post

Hi,Im seeking help in terms of picking an appropriate in ear earphone ( those that hang downwards NOT over the ears ones ). I hope you can help me pick one ASAP.Rig: Samsung Galaxy S3Type of Music: Mostly hip hop, metal and sometimes rock and pop.Other Requirements: MUST be worn hanging downwards and comfortable. Built in mic and volume control would be a bonus however if the sound quality is really good, I wouldn't mind dropping those. Noise isolation should be great (for usage on public transport, noisy locations) and comfortable (long hours of use)Budget: Singapore Dollars $200~Can increase budget by about $50 if its really worth the cash.Thank you very much.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by varunthapliyal9 View Post

Hey I'm not really an audiophile but i'm looking for in-ear headphones with good bass and I also need an inline microphone and I have a budget of around $60 -$70(Rs4000 maximum).I live in India so don't have many options to choose from.After a lot of searching I found

Soundmagic E10M(Out of stock)

MEElectronics CC51P

Brainwavz M4 with mic

Sony MH1C(Not available frown.gif)

Klipsch Image s4i

MEElectronics M11P+

Sennheiser MM 50 iP

Which of these will be best for me? I usually listen to rock,house,dubstep,metal.Also if there are other options available please suggest me some biggrin.gif

Mic, relatively aggressive genres so I assume some decent dynamics and transients are in order, bassy - really does sound like the CKN50s but no mic from what I remember. If you don't mind a loss on the smoothness front the CKM500i (emphasis on the i part, inline mic/remote version) would do nicely as well.

 

Shame that the E10s are out of stock, they'd do extremely well in this instance as well.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by sansdeity View Post

Hey all. I was hoping to get a few recommendations on sub-$50 IEM's. I'm not an audiophile. Just looking for some comfortable IEM's with a nice sound profile (I listen to jazz, zydeco, and bands like Radiohead, Portishead, Tool, System of a Down, etc.).

 

Through one of my credit card rewards program, I can grab a pair of MEE CW31's for $15.99 or MEE A151's for $46.99. I checked out the reviews of both in the big review thread and they both seem to be good deals but if there is not a tremendous sound difference, I'll be fine with the $16 CW31's.

 

Should I just grab one of those or is there a sub-$50 IEM that is a "must buy".

Sound preference?

 

If you enjoy a leaner and more clarity-oriented sound, would go for the A151s easy. Otherwise not sure what you might like so re-emphasis on stating the sound preference part. From the looks of the genres seems like you would possibly want to look at a balanced IEM, in which case the VC02s are getting touted around the forums as being a "must-buy" (have not heard so you'll have to do the research yourself). 

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by xalde View Post

I've been stalking and comparing reviews and now need a nudge to decide. I'm looking for some portable headphones, not buds or IEMs, for use while commuting on the bus and walking. My music is a mix of many things - video game soundtracks (treat as classical music), remixes (electronica/dance/etc), and various rock and pop artists. Looking for my first steps into audiophiledom, and thinking I'd love/appreciate something like the Grado-80i. Obviously those aren't good for commuting (sound leakage). I'm looking for something about <$100, though I can be a bit flexible.

So far my list to choose from are:
igrado
Sennheiser PX 200
Sony MDR-V6

I open to other suggestions, but currently I'm debating between the igrado and the sennheiser. Don't need something "bass heavy", I think I just want the true honest sound of that is what the music is supposed to be heard like, how the composer wished it to be heard. If that makes sense.

Thanks so much for your suggestions and help! Apologies for any annoyances and etc.

Neutrality? Natural sound? This is actually a hot topic around these parts and you might want to look at the sound science threads regarding these topics to attempt to gather a well-informed opinion on your own with this.

 

But the others on the list would easily lose to the V6 for sig in this regard. Also the successor to the Sonys, the ZX700s to look at as well.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dangerous View Post

Hi, lately my cheap skullcandy headphones just aren't doing it for me anymore, and I need sone good guidance for choosing a good build and sound quality but portable headphone. My price range is around $50 - $100, I want them to be pretty flush and gentle due to my sensitive ears that get can sore, also I'll be putting carrying them in a tight packs so I'd like them to fold flat. I'll be using them mostly with my phone, ipod, and laptop. Also I listen to a wide range of music but mostly 70's rock so I'm not really sure about the bass prominence, but that's why I'm posting here. smily_headphones1.gif

 

Thank's for any replies! Happy head banging.

Comfy, folds, rock, 50-100 - really does sound like the S500 or the K518s.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by FrequencyBlue View Post

So I am looking at these 3 IEMs:

 Sony MDR-XB90EX

 JVC HA-FXT90

 ATH CKN70

 

Say, I really love my SHE3580 mostly because of the bright sound and the sub-bass, which of these should I pick if I want a similar sound signature?

Out of the lot, not having heard the CKN70 (but will assume they have a similar sig with the CKN50s), the JVCs would be the brightest and most sparkly out of the lot. Mids are much more lush and forward though. The FXD80s would be even more similar with their leaner note presentation.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by shredder47 View Post

So I'm looking to move to a new pair, and my options are pretty wide open: 

 

History: 

 

Klipsch Image S4 -- I liked the way these sound, although I recognize they're certainly not the most neutral, but they were fun to listen to. A few months after I got those, I moved on to 

UE Triple.Fi 10 -- Picked these up two years ago with Amazon's Black Friday pricing...so I feel like I got a lot of bang for my buck. I think these sound great, but I'm finally getting unhappy with the fit. They don't fit poorly, I'm just not particularly happy with them either. 

 

So I've decided to try to find a new pair, and I think I've narrowed down my options somewhat: 

 

I'd like to spend under $200 if possible, but I'm capable of stretching to $300 if it's really worth it. 

 

I'm currently considering -- 

 

Klipsch Image x10 -- Cheap on Amazon, apparently very comfortable. A lot of bang for the buck?

V-Moda M-80 -- Well regarded, but I'm not sure if I'll like on-ear 

UE 6000 -- Tried at Best Buy, liked but not super impressed -- Supposed to have good bass, but I wasn't really feeling it. Perhaps the floor unit has alot of wear and tear? 

V-Moda M-100 -- Apparently well liked, but a little out of budget. Impressed at reliability and replaceable parts. Worth the price jump? 

 

Are any of these significantly better than the UE Triple.Fi's in terms of SQ? I'm open to other recommendations as well, this is just where I'm at at the moment 

 

EDIT: Mostly used for mobile listening streaming from Google Music on Nexus 4, local listening on MBP with Spotify, and mostly Apple Lossless/iTunes purchase 

Better fit, under 200, upgrade over the TF10s (which is not too hard to find these days, they are showing their age) - if you didn't like the UE6000 will assume you won't like the warmed-over and smooth sig in general - so definitely look at the FXD80, FXZ100, especially the former for fit and comfort. X10s mentioned would also be a nice buy, though less of an upgrade and more of a side-grade in that sense.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by elpsycongroo View Post

Hi guys,

I'm looking to buy a pair of IEMs for commuting, with a budget of <$120 (I'm a poor student). I listen to literally every genre of music, but lean towards electronic genres, and am a slight basshead (although clarity throughout the spectrum is important to me). Since I'm commuting, isolation is very important to me. I'm used to the open soundstage of full-size headphones, so I'm hoping to find something with a similar feel.
I've been looking at the following:

SoundMAGIC E30

Klipsh S4

Phonak PFE 012

MEElectronics M6

Any ideas as to which would be better suited? Any other suggestions are welcome too. 
Thanks!

As mentioned by the others, you won't find the stage you're looking for here. Bassy, electronic stuff, clarity, isolation - really does sound like the FXD80s in this case and they fit nicely under the budget as well.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by best7 View Post

Hello Guys

 

I been lurking here for two years now and I thought I may start posting now. Actually, I need some advice on choosing a closed back headphone so I hope it doesnt bore you.

 

I am looking for a closed back headphone I can use while commuting to work. So far I came up with Creative Aurvana Live, SRH440, Koss ProDJ100, Denon HP700 and Sony MDR-V6. My considerations are:

 

- I mostly listen to Classic Rock, Prog Rock, Psychedelic Rock, Stoner and some Jazz and Classical. I have a pair of Grado SR80i and while I enjoy the sound from them they seem too agressive for me to listen to for more than 15 minutes. So maybe I can describe the sound signature I am looking for as a less aggressive and warmer Grado sound with a little bit of more bass.

 

- Commuting in Istanbul where I am based is a very noisy activity. Therefore, isolation is pretty important for me (maybe I should eliminate CAL already based on what I read here). 

 

- I will be using an iphone 4 and a sansa clip zip as a source. I have a mixed collection of MP3 and FLAC files.

 

- Id prefer not to use an amp but if I have to I already have a JDS Labs cmoybb v2.03 and would like to use that.

 

- Last but not least, the price. I really cannot go over 100 USD since I will be paying a hefty sum for shipping to Turkey anyway.

 

Feel free to recommend headphones other than the ones I mentioned. Thanks in advance.

Less aggressive, warm, isolation, under 100 - SRH440 out of the list for sure. Especially for your genres. Clamp is fairly significant but not too uncomfortable.

Reply
post #3245 of 4825
3/15/13 at 1:33am
Quote:
Originally Posted by TwinQY View Post

 

Mic, relatively aggressive genres so I assume some decent dynamics and transients are in order, bassy - really does sound like the CKN50s but no mic from what I remember. If you don't mind a loss on the smoothness front the CKM500i (emphasis on the i part, inline mic/remote version) would do nicely as well.

 

Shame that the E10s are out of stock, they'd do extremely well in this instance as well.

Thanks for the answer.Im' not sure if these are available in india :P .Will look for them.In the meantime please tell me how do these compare to VSonic GR02 Bass Edition and Brainwavz M2?? And thanks once again :)

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post #3246 of 4825
3/15/13 at 1:39am
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Quote:
Originally Posted by varunthapliyal9 View Post

Thanks for the answer.Im' not sure if these are available in india :P .Will look for them.In the meantime please tell me how do these compare to VSonic GR02 Bass Edition and Brainwavz M2?? And thanks once again :)

They aren't available where I am as well. Usually people depend on Tenso importing in this case. http://www.tenso.com/en/

 

These would be the antithesis to the M2s and GR02s, other than the bass (which has weight and punch like the other two). These are startlingly clear, with ample sparkle as well. Also technical beasts for the price. Detail would be on par, but separation and speed definitely has an edge on the ATs.

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post #3247 of 4825
3/15/13 at 2:36am
Quote:
Originally Posted by TwinQY View Post

They aren't available where I am as well. Usually people depend on Tenso importing in this case. http://www.tenso.com/en/

 

These would be the antithesis to the M2s and GR02s, other than the bass (which has weight and punch like the other two). These are startlingly clear, with ample sparkle as well. Also technical beasts for the price. Detail would be on par, but separation and speed definitely has an edge on the ATs.


Any other alternatives you can think of?? Even iem without mic will do.. Im desperate now tongue_smile.gif.The brands available here are DUNU,Brainwavz,Vsonic,Sennheiser,A few Audio Technica models,Soundmagic,Sony(Only few of them),Klipsch,Koss .... That's about it more or less

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post #3248 of 4825
3/15/13 at 4:36am

Hello, Thank you all for looking at this post and every member here sharing their experience to help each other. I've been reading a lot in the past couple of days within headfi and I got to say that I didn't know most of these stuff about choosing a headphone and again thank you all for that knowledge.

First of all I'm a complete newbie for audio and techs behind it. I mainly use sony mdr-7506 at home and while travelling only the headphones I got with my phones. specifically nokia headsets and a sony headset.

now Im looking for a good IEM around 40$ or less for regular use. I like good clean sound with punchy bass. but not overwhelming or painful.good mids and lows that won't take over other instrument's sound.  I really don't know how to express my thoughts as I don't understand or feel what is the soundstage or open close sounds those kinda stuff. I think i need good isolation from outside world while listening to music and should be comfortable to wear for long hours about 4-6 hours. 

 

As I have read some reviews here, I think its JVC HA-FX101X is the kinda thing I'm looking for. I have settled my mind for that and then after I visited their site for more details, I saw FX3X and now Im confused of what to get. I have no experience with carbon tubes and how does it sound. does its carbon tube worth the extra money?

So Iam looking for help on choosing between fx101x and fx3x or suggest me any alternatives you guys know better than these two. Thank you everyone for taking your time.

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post #3249 of 4825
3/15/13 at 7:03am

Thank you for taking time to reply


 

Less aggressive, warm, isolation, under 100 - SRH440 out of the list for sure. Especially for your genres. Clamp is fairly significant but not too uncomfortable.

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post #3250 of 4825
3/15/13 at 9:31am
Quote:
Originally Posted by TwinQY View Post

 

Mic, relatively aggressive genres so I assume some decent dynamics and transients are in order, bassy - really does sound like the CKN50s but no mic from what I remember. If you don't mind a loss on the smoothness front the CKM500i (emphasis on the i part, inline mic/remote version) would do nicely as well.

 

Shame that the E10s are out of stock, they'd do extremely well in this instance as well.


Would you recommend me the TDK IE800 ? Or any other similar earphones for that matter ?

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post #3251 of 4825
3/15/13 at 9:36am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Zalithian View Post


People need to get over this IEMS and wide soundstage thing, especially on a lower budget. That's really just not happening. Haven't heard the SRH840 but I think I remember them being closed, so their soundstage probably isn't great either. That said, the GR07 is pretty balanced with decent vocals. "Soundstage" on them is pretty good for IEMS but nothing spectacular. The 262 were the best mids I heard under $200 in IEMS. The 215's should satisfy your bass cravings, but their clarity leaves something to be desired. On the plus side they isolate well and have a removable cable. EPH-100, I think people liked the bass on that and thought it was good for trance. PFE112's are good too, but discontinued and maybe a little overpriced these days with all the new offerings.

 

Yeah, the midrange was what appealed to me most from the RE262. But you're right, expecting a wide (or good) soundstage with IEMs or closed-back headphones especially at this price would be a far stretch. I'm probably leaning towards the GR07 right now. I'm looking into earphones below $300, if that would open up any recommendations. Would you happen to have had experience with the thinksound earphones?

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by TwinQY View Post

Have not heard the limited edition

EPH-100 - very much bass and mid oriented, warmth might be jarring. Overall just another smooth, extremely lush presentation, with isolation second only to Etys.

GR07 - slightly warm, more treble presence than the Yamahas. Great texture and kick, dynamics and timbre are top notch. Overall just a rounded-off technical beast with a warm satisfying sig.

 

If you're looking for a SRH840-sound-alike, can't recommend the PFE122s enough. Bass filters would probably do what you want to the bass. Mids are slightly forward, very clean and smooth. Tonality is overall quite similar to the Shures. Something else that would be slightly bassier (or would appear to, since the Shure do have a bit of roll-off) would be the IE800s.

 

Not necessarily looking for an IEM similar to the SRH840, I'm having trouble figuring out what I'd like in terms of a sound signature for the IEMs I'm hoping to buy. If it helps, I tend to listen to acoustic, jazz, instrumentals and ballads frequently. Although I do sometimes have moments of hip-hop, electronic, pop and rock; and sometimes classical. But I'm going to look into the GR07 and PFE122 more. If I stretch my budget to below $300, are there any more recommendations, or would be it a pointless thing to do?


Edited by Neonium - 3/15/13 at 8:21pm
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post #3252 of 4825
3/15/13 at 10:14am
Quote:
Originally Posted by mugen3 View Post

CKN70. Or maybe the XB90EX, if you absolutely love sub bass. They are not bright though.

 

Brightness should be first priority, and sub-bass may come in second, but still a must-have. Also I mentioned XB90EX because it's at the same price range as the other 2, but now that I do a little bit more research and found out it's a bassy IEM, I think I will pass.

 

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by TwinQY View Post

 

Out of the lot, not having heard the CKN70 (but will assume they have a similar sig with the CKN50s), the JVCs would be the brightest and most sparkly out of the lot. Mids are much more lush and forward though. The FXD80s would be even more similar with their leaner note presentation.

 

 

The more I read about FXT90, the more I want it. ATH also come close, but I am still not convinced. Guess I am gonna wait for more reviews, and meanwhile I will check the FXD80 reviews. Thanks for spending your time answering our questions!


Edited by FrequencyBlue - 3/15/13 at 10:15am
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post #3253 of 4825
3/15/13 at 12:29pm
Quote:

Good build, separation, more mids, warm, clear, vocals - Yep this time I can definitely rec the Ortofons. Enjoying them on all of the criteria that you're listing. Build on the VSonics are fine, not much to worry about. Some of the most solid and rigid (in a good sense) plastic on an IEM to date. Would cross the Atrios off, not the most stand-out mids, not even the least bit forward as well (build is fine). Probably should not take the TF10 as a benchmark for build against everything, they are exceptionally bad in this case, and well-known for it.

 

Would also look at the BA200 in this case as they fit most of what you're looking for quite nicely. 

OK, thanks a bunch.  I will likely order these but am a bit on the fence between the Ortos and GR07 BE.  I'll also look into the TDK on the recommendation by TwinQY.

 

Anyone who prefers alternative/rock have direct experience with these phones?  I do prefer a livelier sound so I am still thinking e-q5 but the GR07 BE is getting some glowing feedback on this forum. 

 

I'm thinking I'll be pretty happy whichever way I go but it does not hurt to ask.   

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post #3254 of 4825
3/15/13 at 1:01pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by TwinQY View Post

I didn't sense any rudeness at all :)

 

RE-400s are the successors to the RE0s and have been much praised as being an improvement throughout. The Sunrise Xcape were the competition at the time and both sound quite similar actually. 

 

Anyways, the current RE0s-soundalikes would be the A161P, HF5 (to an extent - not as sweet sounding), and maybe the VC02 although I have not heard that one personally.

 

I thought maybe my question was already answered or perhaps there was an already existing thread. I mean, it probably has been answered and there probably is a thread, but I just didn't want to sound like I came in here not searching whilst demanding guidance. I'm just glad everything is okay. ^^

 

Okay, so RE-400s are basically the new and improved RE0s?

When you say "competition at the time", do you mean that the Sunrise Xcape is no longer on par with the RE-400s?

 

Regardless, I think I'll probably go for the RE-400s. If the RE0s were the one of the best, then the RE-400s should be even greater than that. It sounds like there really is no major difference from the Sunrise Xcape and the RE-400s anyways, so I don't think by purchasing the latter that I'll be left disappointed.

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post #3255 of 4825
3/15/13 at 7:59pm
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Quote:
Originally Posted by varunthapliyal9 View Post

Any other alternatives you can think of?? Even iem without mic will do.. Im desperate now tongue_smile.gif.The brands available here are DUNU,Brainwavz,Vsonic,Sennheiser,A few Audio Technica models,Soundmagic,Sony(Only few of them),Klipsch,Koss .... That's about it more or less

DUNU? Definitely the Hephaes then. Crisp and oh-so-good for bassy fun.

Otherwise the ATs, E10, maybe the GR02/M2 if you mind the smoothness, still stands.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Suspect008 View Post

Hello, Thank you all for looking at this post and every member here sharing their experience to help each other. I've been reading a lot in the past couple of days within headfi and I got to say that I didn't know most of these stuff about choosing a headphone and again thank you all for that knowledge.

First of all I'm a complete newbie for audio and techs behind it. I mainly use sony mdr-7506 at home and while travelling only the headphones I got with my phones. specifically nokia headsets and a sony headset.

now Im looking for a good IEM around 40$ or less for regular use. I like good clean sound with punchy bass. but not overwhelming or painful.good mids and lows that won't take over other instrument's sound.  I really don't know how to express my thoughts as I don't understand or feel what is the soundstage or open close sounds those kinda stuff. I think i need good isolation from outside world while listening to music and should be comfortable to wear for long hours about 4-6 hours. 

 

As I have read some reviews here, I think its JVC HA-FX101X is the kinda thing I'm looking for. I have settled my mind for that and then after I visited their site for more details, I saw FX3X and now Im confused of what to get. I have no experience with carbon tubes and how does it sound. does its carbon tube worth the extra money?

So Iam looking for help on choosing between fx101x and fx3x or suggest me any alternatives you guys know better than these two. Thank you everyone for taking your time.

Clean, punchy, isolates - NOT THE FX101X. Definitely not. Those are as basshead-y as you can get. The 3X as well. Nowhere near what you're describing (which sounds more like the E30 or the VC02 (have not heard this one but high accolades on the thread for its deep insertion/isolation and clarity and punchiness)

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by angrybeaver View Post

Would you recommend me the TDK IE800 ? Or any other similar earphones for that matter ?

I left your reply blank :P

So, so sorry about that. Again, sorry :(

 

The TDKs don't have a mic but otherwise they fit the criteria quite nicely. BA200s isolates a bit more because of form factor though. The X10s slot real nicely underneath the budget, also isolates and does those genres like a champ, AND has a mic. Can't recommend them enough. Build would go to the TDKs though.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Neonium View Post

 

Not necessarily looking for an IEM similar to the SRH840, I'm having trouble figuring out what I'd like in terms of a sound signature for the IEMs I'm hoping to buy. If it helps, I tend to listen to acoustic, jazz, instrumentals and ballads frequently. Although I do sometimes have moments of hip-hop, electronic, pop and rock; and sometimes classical. But I'm going to look into the GR07 and PFE122 more. If I stretch my budget to below $300, are there any more recommendations, or would be it a pointless thing to do?

Your budget at the moment is fine, plenty of choices already. I would've gotten confused a heck of a lot faster than you would have, seems like you want something mid-centric/all-rounder/balanced-ish though.

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Tehol View Post

OK, thanks a bunch.  I will likely order these but am a bit on the fence between the Ortos and GR07 BE.  I'll also look into the TDK on the recommendation by TwinQY.

 

Anyone who prefers alternative/rock have direct experience with these phones?  I do prefer a livelier sound so I am still thinking e-q5 but the GR07 BE is getting some glowing feedback on this forum. 

 

I'm thinking I'll be pretty happy whichever way I go but it does not hurt to ask.   

Lively - does sound like the VSonics. Treble is a bit more subdued on the eQ-5. Bass is a bit more snappier though. 

If it's purely rock you're listening to, might go to the GR07. Their tonality just fits the genre extremely nicely.

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