[3DGrace]

1. I am not interested in purchasing an amp.
2. Comfort/sound clarity are all I care about. I listen mostly to hard rock.
3. Flexible on sound signature so long as clarity is solid.
4. Open or closed is acceptable.
5. Must be over ear.
6. Prefer straight cord (detachable a plus).
7. Will be worn over glasses.

 

[Music Alchemist]

Philips SHP9500.

 

[3DGrace]

What do you like better about the SHP9500? Any areas where the M40x outshines?

 

[Music Alchemist]

What do you like better about the SHP9500? Any areas where the M40x outshines?

 
It's better in just about every way. You may feel the urge to boost the bass, though.

 

[3DGrace]

Ironically, Newegg was running a sale for around $50, so I ordered them yesterday. The model# had an S at the end. A quick google search informed me that the sound quality should be the same. Not sure if you are familiar with this.
 
Is the HM5 pad mod worth it on these?

 

[Music Alchemist]

  Ironically, Newegg was running a sale for around $50, so I ordered them yesterday. The model# had an S at the end. A quick google search informed me that the sound quality should be the same. Not sure if you are familiar with this.
 
Is the HM5 pad mod worth it on these?

 
Yeah, it's just a slight variation that shouldn't make any difference in sound.
 
Do this mod:
 
http://www.head-fi.org/t/600088/an-audiophile-and-petrolheads-journal-buckle-up/7770#post_11121790

 

[3DGrace]

So I just got these in from Newegg today. The mids are great, especially for vocals and hard rock. The bass and treble aren't as pronounced as my old pair of M50s, but honestly this thing does thump if you put some volume into it and the bass sounds clean. I really like the open back for a wider sound stage. And OMG are these the most comfortable headphones to wear. I felt like my M50s were going to make my brain explode. Some people don't like the cord, but honestly I prefer the straight short cord because it doesn't tug on the headset like my heavy coiled M50 cord would do and drive me nuts while gaming.
 
Thanks for the recommendation Alchemist!