[Phearzmeh]

I'm looking to spend about 200-300 dollars on a graduation present for my brother. He doesn't have an amp or a balanced headset (only vmoda crossfade lp2s). I can't decide whether or not to get him something like the beyerdynamic DT770s 32ohm or maybe a cheaper headset with an AMP. I've heard that the 770s aren't the most balanced headset but it seems to be very popular for monitoring anyway so it can't be that bad right? Any recommendations on what I look into/purchase for the best sound quality?

Thanks.

 

[cel4145]

Why not get him some open headphones since he already has a pair of closed ones? Phillips X1 easily fit your budget, and they don't have to have an amp: http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/big-bottom-and-lively-top-philips-fidelio-x1

 

[Phearzmeh]

Thanks for the response! I've never heard anything about philips headphones being great before. Are these headphones good for alternative/rock music too?

 

[grizzlybeast]

X1 are good for acoustic but not very busy music. It has good balance and excellent timbre but the instruments are distant so the mids aren't robust. They are not relatively recessed either but I wouldn't call it a midcentric hp. For the money it's still a great choice. Maybe a focal spirit pro/Classic would be even better.

 

[sinnottj]

Grado? They have a very exciting sound and forward mids. SR225i would be a good choice at $200. No amp required.

 

[grizzlybeast]

I just realized he said exciting. Scratch my suggestions off of the list. Maybe a sony Mdr 7520 will do

 

[Phearzmeh]

Thanks for the replies! I think I'm going to get a Shure 840 or 940! I did get a Philips Fidelio X1 for myself though and am currently loving them