[Adeeza]

After using IEMs for more than 4 years I have decided that I would like to have a set of over-ear headphones as well.  Now if that was the extent of my dilemma, I would just go with the ATH-M50s; however recently I have gotten into mixing and producing electronic music and would like to perform in the future once I improve.  I would like to use the headphones while performing as well as an "everyday" set of cans.Now my question is should I save myself the $80 or so and buy the M50s or make the investment and buy the XD-53s since they look more durable, have "better" sound and a removable cord?  I would appreciate all personal input on the matter,
Thanks.

 

[soundstige]

Lol, what the heck is this XD-53 business? I know it's not good to criticize something without hearing it but, really, what is "Allen and Heath"? I would sincerely like to know how you even got recommended that. Just get a well-reviewed can around here for DJ use. ATH-M50, Sony MDR-V6, or Koss Pro DJ100 are well regarded.

 

[Adeeza]

These are the Allen and Heath's http://www.allen-heath.com/uk/Products/pages/ProductDetails.aspx?catId=XoneSeries&ProductId=XoneXD253&SubCatId=   They caught my attention when I heard they used Audio Technica Drivers, from what I can tell they are a more durable, better sounding version of the ATH M50s but I'm not sure if it's worth the extra $80

 

[soundstige]

I believe the M50 will be plenty durable for your use, and sound just about the same. You can put the rest of the money towards something else more worthwhile.
Quote:

These are the Allen and Heath's http://www.allen-heath.com/uk/Products/pages/ProductDetails.aspx?catId=XoneSeries&ProductId=XoneXD253&SubCatId=   They caught my attention when I heard they used Audio Technica Drivers, from what I can tell they are a more durable, better sounding version of the ATH M50s but I'm not sure if it's worth the extra $80

 

[Adeeza]

Thanks, appreciate the response, still kind of on the fence so I'll see if anyone has other opinions on what I should do.

 

[davez0r]

According to the "Basshead club" the XD-53 equates to the Audio Technica Pro700 and Denon HP-1000. I don't own any of these so I'm far from an expert, but those Frequency response graphs and other measurements do look the same. Would love to hear more from someone who knows.

 

[eskimoo]

what's so special about Allen Heath XD53? any proper review?

 

[DarKen23]

I think they sound great. Those are the ones I grab when Im doing gigs, especially when the club is very loud or they have monitors right next to me for mixing. There are 2 versions, the xd-53 (which i use, they sound better than the newer model), and the xd2-53. The xd2 model has a detachable cable, a slight cosmetic change, slightly different sound sig (actually its vastly different when you are listening to em for longer periods)

 

[DarKen23]

If Im correct, allen & heath headphones are the only DJ headphones that have the 53mm driver, hence the name xd-53. Ive used many many "DJ" headphones, and xd-53 are my favorite. They are accurate as hell, very punchy, and detailed. When youre playing at a club with loads of people talking loud because obviously the music is very loud, you need a headphone thats going to grab your attention on all frequencies. Especially the low freq. These do a great job when I need to really dial in on the mix. Whatever I hear in the xd-53s, will always play true out of the club speakers. A pair to consider if youre on the market for "DJ headphones".
The only complain I have about these is that they are pretty heavy and that may cause discomfort if you are playing a long set. Ive been mixing at home since Ive stopped doing gigs and the Senn HD25-mk2 are uber good. Ridiculously good seal, comfortable, light, and swivel back for having 1 ear open for listening to whats happening out there.

 

[Easylistening]

I noticed these Allen & Heath headphones are marked down at lot at Best BUY: http://www.cowboom.com/product/1147916
That is a Best BUY outlet.