[grmnasasin0227]

I'm more of a fan of open-back or semi-open cans, but my friend is interested in a set of closed back on a budget of sub-$400. He usually listens to classic rock and lighter indie stuff. Needless to say since it isn't my forte, I'm coming here to ask for suggestions and recommendations. Thanks all for any input! If you need any more information, please just ask!

 

[MalVeauX]

Heya,
 
Perhaps consider:
 
AudioTechnica A900X
AKG K550
AKG K267
Logitech UE6000
Beyer DT770
Sony MDR1R
Vmoda M100
SoundMagic HP100
Denon D400
Shure SRH840
Brainwavz HM5
Ultrasone HFI 780
(used/discontinued) Denon D2000
 
Very best,

 

[PurpleAngel]

Quote:

I'm more of a fan of open-back or semi-open cans, but my friend is interested in a set of closed back on a budget of sub-$400. He usually listens to classic rock and lighter indie stuff. Needless to say since it isn't my forte, I'm coming here to ask for suggestions and recommendations. Thanks all for any input! If you need any more information, please just ask!

What source(s) will he be plugging the headphones into?

 

[grmnasasin0227]

Hi Purple, He'll go going straight into an iPod in public. He doesn't own any amplifiers.

 

[PurpleAngel]

Quote:

Hi Purple, He'll go going straight into an iPod in public. He doesn't own any amplifiers.

I would guess the AKG K550 would be a good sounding headphone for portable use, and easy for a iPod to drive.

 

[imported_dan_a]

I'd second the AKG K550, which is my work headphone (I sit in a cubicle).  I can't say for how it is unamped (though I guess I could try it), as I am listening out of a Fiio E9 + E7 DAC/amp combo.