Quote: Originally Posted by sclue right now im considering hd 280 pros DENON AH-D1001 and audio technica ATH-ES7, which of these is best for listening to alt/classic rock and some rap on a computer. Denon AH-D1001 gets my vote. Outstanding value, great comfort and more uncolored...

I too bought the EP630s based on the hype and that is just what it is...hype. These EP630s have boomy undefined bass and peaky treble. No hint of smoothness -- very uneven mids. Even for under $30, these are not a bargain. Now the im716 for $20 from Newegg -- THAT'S a bargain!

Denon AH-D1000/1001 A bit more $$ than the Grado SR-60, but much better: neutral detailed mids, superior comfort, sweeter treble (without the harsh SR60 lower treble peak), better imaging, greater bass quantity and fine quality. This would work well for your situation if you can find this at...

Set your EQ settings to FLAT. The problem is in the source. The D2000 are excellent, neutral cans with slight bass bloat. No sibilance. Unless you have a defective pair.

The D1000 are nice and a very good value. A somewhat neutral balance, with good dynamics and fine resolution. Good efficiency -- amp is not a necessity. Superior to the Grado SR60 for an all-rounder -- indeed I think the D1000 is a worthy contender for the budget audiophile can.

The Grado SR60 that I had were far from neutral with a upper mid/lower treble peak that colored all vocals (sibilant "s" sounds). Very little sub bass and heavy midbass. Small soundstage and an overall congested imaging. The Denon D1000 are much better. Less colored, great detailed midrange...

Owned the AD700 for weeks and tried my best to like these. Could not overcome the nasal lower mid coloration that affects all vocals and gives the cans a heavier than neutral sound. Outstanding soundstage, however. If the AD900/AD2000 do not have this midrange coloration, sign me up!

Quote: Originally Posted by donaldekelly Some of the better Sennheisers can be gotten used for under $150 - HD555, HD595 for example. Not the best Senns, maybe but pretty good. I should try Sennheisers again. Once had the HD497 and it just did not have the resolution. Pleasant...

Looking for a sub $150 all-rounder and tried first, the Audio Technica AD700. I like a neutral, smooth sound and I am particularly picky about the midrange -- esp vocals. My home system are modified (vertical w/upgraded xover) Magneplanar MMGs with a TC Sounds 12" sub -- I am familiar with...