[ziigmund]

Hello! Im willing to spend 300$ for my first good sounding setup. I'll be using Asus Xonar DS opamped with OPA2227PA for source . The question is which headphones to buy . I prefer open headphones as they sound better - considering hd598 for now. Also i want advice for AMP or AMP DAC combo . Im planning to listen mostly Rock , Blus , Rap , Dance (basicly everything) so i will need some all around headphone with good sounding ! 

 

[davidsh]

For a cheaper open headphone with a bit emphasized bass, you should look into the fidelio x1. Else, the ma900 is regarded by some as being a lot alike the hd5xx series, but better choice overall. Both are easy to drive. If you want to step further up in fidelity, you'd most likely need an amp if you are going with the classic mid-fi cans like hd600, dt880, akg k701 etc.

 

[ziigmund]

I think i will buy the HD598's . So the question now is should i buy only AMP or DAC/AMP ? Do i need DAC with my op-amped soundcard actually?

 

[PurpleAngel]

  I think I will buy the HD598's . So the question now is should i buy only AMP or DAC/AMP ? Do i need DAC with my op-amped soundcard actually?

There are a few options.
Replace the Asus Xonar DS with a Creative Labs Sound Blaster Z (SB1500), $100.
The SB-Z comes with a decent headphone amplifier and a better DAC chip, CS4398
 
Or get the Schiit Magni headphone amplifier, $99, and plug it into the DS.
I would consider the Magni a better amp then the SB-Z's,
but as the (50-Ohm) HD5XX series is easily driven, might not make a noticeable difference.
 
The HD558 ($128) uses the same driver as the HD598 ($200), just a different cup design.

 

[davidsh]

You wouldn't really need anything besides your sound card. I think there'll be better contenders out there but the hd598 has stood the test of time after all.

 

[ziigmund]

Tnx alot guys! Need more opinions on headphones . I need them to sound "warm" !

 

[davidsh]

I think 558 is warmer than 598

 

[ziigmund]

Anything besides sennheiser ? 

 

[Jasper9395]

The Philips fidelio X1 mentioned before is a pretty interesting warm sounding can and I am not just saying that because I am dutch

. I've tried it in a shop and was pleasantly surprised it also got a very good review on innterfidelity.

 

[ziigmund]

So i will purchase these days and my amp/dac perhaps will be YULONG U100 (other suggestions in this price range?) . Now the question is which headphones , thinking of DT990 pro , hd598 ?!?!?!? Any other suggestions . If this would help i like the sound of HE-400 (Who don't ?) but my budget not allowing me HIFIMAN