Hi I am looking to purchase my first pair of quality headphones, that being said I am not very well versed in audio and all the different specifications. I plan to use my headphones primarily while on my PC, but would also use them during long travels. I prefer headphones that are larger and surround my ears. I am looking for headphones that are clear and accurate for music (not headphones that jack up the bass to cover up poor quality) , but would also like my headphones to provide a good soundstage that can give me accurate directional sound for when I play FPS computer games. I am hoping to spend 150 USD or less on these headphones and get the most for my money. I am also open to using a headset if it would be a good fit for me. Thanks in advance for any help with this!

Hmmmm, the best solution I can think of off the top of my head is the Sennheiser HD558.  Good soundstage and imaging (should work nicely for your FPS) and a neutral to slightly warm sound.  Very light, and comfortable, with large earcups so that your ears don't touch anything (at least for me).  They don't require any special amplification.
 
They are open headphones, so that is one thing to consider.
 
And if that isn't gonna work, check out innerfidelity.  Lots of good info to get you pointed in the right direction.
 
http://www.innerfidelity.com/

ATH-M40x. They sound better than the M50x. The Shure SRH440 are close to neutral as well. I'm assuming you want closed backs since you are talking about traveling which could mean use on a plane.

I have been doing some research, and atleast within the gaming circles who I have asked they all recommend ad700 or ad700x by audio technica. What I have read says they are the best as far as soundstage and imaging, but I assume this will come at a cost as far as sound quality and enjoyment. Any experience with these?

ipw102 said:

  I have been doing some research, and atleast within the gaming circles who I have asked they all recommend ad700 or ad700x by audio technica. What I have read says they are the best as far as soundstage and imaging, but I assume this will come at a cost as far as sound quality and enjoyment. Any experience with these?

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They are open headphones with weak bass. They do have an excellent sound stage and imaging, but you're giving up something for that. They would also be pretty bad for portable use due to the open design. If you're primarily focused on competitive FPS gaming and don't plan on doing anything else with them, like music, or wanting some immersion while gaming, they're a very good choice. You might want to check out the HM05/NVX XPT100. They're a rebrand of the popular Fischer FA-003 that has a closed design, decent isolation, and a fairly good soundstage IMO. They're also fairly neutral as far as presentation goes. 

I have narrowed down my search a bit, and was wondering if you guys could help me pick my final choice. I have been reading and see that an open headphone will give me a better sound (generally) but will not be ideal for traveling. I think that I can live with this, given the vast majority of the time I will be using them at home. I have a few selections I have made (with all of your help!), and I was hoping you all could help me pick the best bang for my buck. 
 
Sennheiser 558
ATH AD700X
ATH M50
Creative Aurvana Live!
 
Let me know what you think! Again I am open to both open and closed varieties, just looking for the best and most enjoyable sound. Thanks again

I would go for the HD558 since the AD700X will be a bit bass lifht. No comparison between the open headphones and closed for gaming. The open win easily.