When I first received the HP25-1 II I was a little disappointed. They were tight on my head, to bright for my liking and bass was a little lacking. Right out of the box I was comparing them with my HD280s and felt that the 280s were better in every aspect except ergonomics. After a couple weeks of use I got used to the fit and started to notice the presentation was improving.
 
I actually fell in love with these headphones at CanJam 2010. Up till this point I was driving the phones with my ipod. I had read some reviews and an amp was recommended so I was on a mission for an amp. After many amps and comparing these phones with the best of the pack I can honestly say that they hold there own with the bid dogs when they have the right source and amplification. They have nice bass response and the highs were no longer overpowering. Overall I would say the sound spectrum is very well balanced.
 
There isolation is great when I use the phones at work or play. They stay on your head what ever activity you participate in, and when someone is trying to speak with you, you can easily pull them off to one side and listen. They have a rugged build and I suspect they will last for many years no matter what your activities are. Parts are readily available and the phones have a very simple construction so they are easy to work on and modify if you so desire.
 
Final thoughts. These Great little phones don't come alive until they have been burned in and are given a good source and amplification. The fit takes a little getting used to so give them some time.
 
Highly Recommended.

These were my 1st step up from earbuds and gaming headsets. I was very surprised by the difference, so much that I bought a 5 pack of these for less then $100 and gave them away for Christmas presents.
 
These Headphones were my 1st awareness that there was a better way to listen to my ipod and now here I am.
 
They sound Clean with no distortion or muddiness. They have fairly good isolation and I can't dispute any of the manufacturers claims.
 
They can get uncomfortable after a couple of hours but I got used to them after a couple of weeks.
 
If you are looking for a great entry level headphone for less then $30 this is a great value.
 
Highly Recommended

I read a few reviews b4 I bought a pair of these. I was very Impressed since my past experience was with earbuds and gaming headsets. The isolation was an added surprise. I like to listen to my ipod while I'm on the computer and I no longer hear that computer fan so I can enjoy my music at lower volumes without all the back ground annoyances. I also like using them as hearing protection while I mow my lawn and I can listen to my music at the same time .
 
Sometimes I felt the Bass was overwhelming on certain bass heavy music like Trentmøller.
 
The HD280 sound very clean to me, have no distortion or muddiness. I'm sure they have shortcomings compared to more expensive headphones but for there price range they are a great value.
 
Highly Recommended