[Dr. Strangelove]

Hi everyone.

My friend's Senn HD497 recently died, and he is currently using some panisonics for music listening. As a audiophile, I can't stand by and let him poising his ears anymore with lo-fi crap.
Here are some need to knows:

-Source? Ipod and Soundblaster Audigy

-Amp? No

-DAC? No

-What will he be listening to?
Progressive Rock, video games, some misc

-Budget? 150-200 USD (He lives in Australia though)

I recommended a pair of Grado Sr-80s. But because I've not been in to headphones all that long, and that my first can was a pair of 701s, I have not done much research in to entry level hi-fi.

Therefore, I ask fellow Headfi members: What would be the best cans that he could get on his budget? I'm not sure if he would need a amp, but if amp/can combos under 200 are also welcome.

 

[kite7]

I would say HD595. Grados don't fair too well in gaming

 

[Dr. Strangelove]

http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f10/fs...oronto-273333/

Do the 595s need much ampage? If so, then that leaves about 80 for a simple amp.

 

[Ross1]

595's seem to manage fine without an amp

 

[Jackson99]

I agree - HD595 sounds like a good fit for him. And from my experience, they do pretty well unamped.

 

[goober-george]

goldring dr-150

 

[Dr. Strangelove]

I can understand a PC out being enough amp-page, but what about his Ipod?

Was thinking a Total AirHead would be a good match as it can be used for both PC and portable.

 

[Al Paccioli]

Goldring DR150, DT770