Can someone recommend a headphone upgrade from the Senn. HD600

[arnesto]

I was thinking about getting another pair of headphones recently. I wanted to get something that will have a cleaner midrange that the Senn. HD600 that I am using now.

Like the Senn. HD600 I was looking for something very neutral.

Headphones that look like they might be a fit are the Sony MDR - SA5000 or the Audio Technica W1000s.

Does anyone have a preference over these 2?

Also, does anyone know where I can buy a new Senn HE60 below the retail price? I've found one on the net, but over the suggested retail price.

 

[BobMajor]

I recently switched from the HD600 to the SA5000. I'm happy with the change but you should be aware that the impressions of the SA5000 are very mixed even polarized.
The reason I changed from the HD600 was that I thought the overall presentation wasn't sharp enough-too blurred.
The SA5000 aren't like going to heaven but they do provide better definition of all sounds. The drawback is that the midrange is a little recessed. It makes the overall sound a little lean, mind you I'm not complaining. I'd willingly trade a lush midrange for more definition, but this is completely a personal matter.
I listen to classical exclusively and think the SA5000 do a very good job at this in comparison to the HD600.
ANOTHER WAY YOU COULD GO is to buy a better cable for the Senns. I had a Cardas and later a Moon Audio Silver Dragon. They helped a lot in increasing the definition of the cans but just not enough especially after I got excellent quality ribbon speakers [VMPS 626R BCSE] and became pampered with their definition. I would only use the SA5000 at times I can't listen to my speaker system since the headphones don't come up to level of definition that the speakers provide.

 

[arnesto]

Thanks for the info., I was itching to pull the trigger on the Sonys but I think although the Sonys may be an upgrade. I don't think they will satisfy what I am looking for 100%.

 

[geek707]

Did you decide the HD650 was not enough of a change? I have found the 650's to be a nice step up from my Sony Cd3000, which replaced my 600's.

 

[jazzjunkie]

for something in the neutral range I would recommend the AKG 240 DF. Do a search on Amazon and go to the "new/used" section and you'll find a great price. These are great headphones for any price and are under appreciated, especially by those in this forum.

 

[go_vtec]

W1000 sounds little more aggressive than Sony SA5000 and Sony has more clearer midrange to my ears. I think you may want to try out SA5K or Grado RS-2 (more aggressive than Sony or Audio Technica, but cleaner and louder vocal than other two).

BTW, good luck in finding HE60

It took me over couple of years to find one that is not terribly over priced yet in a perfect condition.

 

[arnesto]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Danamr Did you decide the HD650 was not enough of a change? I have found the 650's to be a nice step up from my Sony Cd3000, which replaced my 600's.

I've never heard them, but I thought they were very similar to the HD600.

 

[JMcMasterJ]

HD650 + cable upgrade? I really like the Blue Dragon v2. I bought my headphones new for $320 + the new 6' cable $110 = $430