Best Full-Size Closed Headphones Under $200?

May 25, 2012 at 11:44 PM Thread Starter Post #1 of 14

electroglow7

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Hey guys, i'm new to head-fi and i was wondering what are some of the top picks for full-size closed headphones under $200.
 
The genres I like are dubstep, electronic, and drum and bass.  So yeah, maybe a headphone that emphasizes bass.
 
I've done some extensive research and have been interested in a few.
 
Audio Technica ATH M50 (seems to have a lot of hype)
 
Creative Aurvana Live! 
 
Ultrasone HFI-580 (bass head headphones?)
 
I also tried the Sony MDR XB-500 and actually liked them quite a bit.  Good bass, not too muddy, but i'm not sure if there are better options out there.
 
Only headphones i've owned previously are the Skullcandies, so this is going to be a HUGE upgrade!
 
Thanks!
 
May 26, 2012 at 2:39 AM Post #6 of 14
Sigh, it's late. Better luck in the mornng.
 
May 26, 2012 at 3:53 AM Post #7 of 14
Quote:
Full sized closed headphones under 2 bills for the music you mentioned -
 
Beyerdynamic DT770
Ultrasone HFI 580
Shure SR840
Audio Technica ATH-M50
Ultrasone HFI 780

If you had to pick between the Audio Technica ATH-M50 and the Ultrasone HFI 580, which one would you choose? I don't care about the price, just sound quality.  I dont have an amp, if that matters.  
 
May 26, 2012 at 12:22 PM Post #8 of 14
If I was picking between the two, I'd pick the ATH-M50
 
But, considering that you wrote in your OP
"The genres I like are dubstep, electronic, and drum and bass.  So yeah, maybe a headphone that emphasizes bass.",
 
I'm pretty sure that you would prefer the Ultrasone 580.
 
Neither of these need an amp to sound good, but both would definitely benefit from an amp – especially as your music is very demanding due to its strong bass content.  
Those genres can often strain the small amps found in MP3 players and other mobile devices.
 
May 26, 2012 at 5:49 PM Post #9 of 14
Consider the Denon AH D1100.
 
I own it and also listen to the same genres as you.
 
They are $200 on Amazon, but if you shop around you can find a better price.
 
Very comfortable, great bass and soundstage. Awesome for dnb, dubstep, reggae, etc.
 
No need for amp.
 
May 27, 2012 at 4:42 PM Post #14 of 14
Listened to the HFI-580s on several occasions and they sound great!  Great bass, but not flabby with distortion.  Definitely great with electronic.
 

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