[Hemlocke]

Also consider the Hifiman HE-R9 with a decently in-depth review:

https://store.hifiman.com/index.php/he-r9.html

https://www.techpowerup.com/review/hifiman-he-r9-closed-back-headphones/

If you feel like the bass is too strong and would be willing to put dynamat in the ear cups to reduce vibration/distortion:

https://www.amazon.com/Dynamat-10425-Self-Adhesive-Deadener-Xtreme/dp/B00020CAVA/

https://www.amazon.com/Dynamat-13100-Dynatape-1-1-30ft/dp/B002WP362U/?th=1

If you want to get a HE-R9 and make it wireless, then you should just also get a free Hifiman Deva Pro as well:

https://store.hifiman.com/index.php/deva-pro.html

Lastly, to add more long-term comfort to any Hifiman headband:

https://www.amazon.com/Cooling-Gel-Headband-Protector-Compatible-Headphones/dp/B094Y67C21/

I had not really considered any HFM stuff, but I'm only familiar with their open-back planars (Last two versions of HE-400i). I actually keep Dynamat around the house.

I loathe the new HFM headbands, and I have a large-ish head, which may be a problem for me. I'll take a look. Thanks.

 

[pbui44]

If you are looking for a more cost-effective generic Dynamat for the house or other buildings, then I just found this stuff that comes in various lengths and prices:

https://www.amazon.com/AggSound-Universal-Deadening-Material-Heat-Insulation/dp/B0BV2GQMSG/?th=1

Funny that just a couple of hours from this posting that the latest Schiit Hel+ was announced, so if you need to get another one, then here it is:

https://www.head-fi.org/threads/sch...bable-start-up.701900/page-8540#post-17770918

https://www.schiit.com/products/hel-plus

 

[Hemlocke]

If you are looking for a more cost-effective generic Dynamat for the house or other buildings, then I just found this stuff that comes in various lengths and prices:

https://www.amazon.com/AggSound-Universal-Deadening-Material-Heat-Insulation/dp/B0BV2GQMSG/?th=1

Funny that just a couple of hours from this posting that the latest Schiit Hel+ was announced, so if you need to get another one, then here it is:

https://www.head-fi.org/threads/sch...bable-start-up.701900/page-8540#post-17770918

https://www.schiit.com/products/hel-plus

I actually don't mind Dynamat prices. I am a classic car guy, so I always have some on hand, even if I am without a classic car like I am now. It's just a matter of time before I get another.

Yes, I saw the Schiit Hel+ announcement. Trying to balance my desire to have USB-C and the other improvements with getting rid of my AKM DAC Hel 2. Decisions, decisions.

 

[DontMezeTheZohan]

Warm, comfortable and below $500 sends me straight to the Meze 99 Classics. They have great, clean sound with nice bass response. They are super comfortable and not tiring to listen to for long periods. They look and sound amazing and typically sell for $309.

 

[Hemlocke]

Warm, comfortable and below $500 sends me straight to the Meze 99 Classics. They have great, clean sound with nice bass response. They are super comfortable and not tiring to listen to for long periods. They look and sound amazing and typically sell for $309.

I have had the 99 Classics/Noir on my list since they were released, but I never pulled the trigger. Now I wonder if I should just get them or stretch for the 109 Pro.

 

[DontMezeTheZohan]

I have had the 99 Classics/Noir on my list since they were released, but I never pulled the trigger. Now I wonder if I should just get them or stretch for the 109 Pro.

I have both the 99 Classics and the 109 Pros, and the 109s are easily my favorite cans, but that being said...the 99s are no slouch! They put out really amazing sound.

 

[yage]

I suggest the AKG K371. I've owned and listened to a lot of headphones over the years and they are my daily driver.

 

[Hemlocke]

I suggest the AKG K371. I've owned and listened to a lot of headphones over the years and they are my daily driver.

I keep looking at the AKGs, but I think I might want something a little higher end from them.

 

[lifeson]

I have had the 99 Classics/Noir on my list since they were released, but I never pulled the trigger. Now I wonder if I should just get them or stretch for the 109 Pro.

If you do go for these I'd recommend getting the Dekoni replacement pads, it just reduces the bass a little bit (which got a bit much sometimes, at least in my setup) and somehow makes them even more comfortable.

 

[Hemlocke]

If you do go for these I'd recommend getting the Dekoni replacement pads, it just reduces the bass a little bit (which got a bit much sometimes, at least in my setup) and somehow makes them even more comfortable.

I like Dekoni’s products, so that’s an easy call. Thanks.

 

[yage]

I wouldn't let the price fool you. The K371s sound exceptional. Personally, I think they're really only outclassed by the DCA Stealth.

 

[Hemlocke]

I wouldn't let the price fool you. The K371s sound exceptional. Personally, I think they're really only outclassed by the DCA Stealth.

I would love to have the Stealth, but that’s more than I’m willing to spend.