Hi again Jhelsas - gets confusing doesn't it.
First - especially on this website - take all the advice with a grain of caution (everything is an opinion). Second - when getting advice, don't be afraid to look at the advisors profile. Have a look at what cans they've got in their inventory etc. Keep in ming their join date and post count. Then you slowly get to know what advice is good and what is 'questionable'.
On the subject of amps/dacs - this is good advice:
The question of whether or not you need an amp, depends on the cans you are driving, and the source you are using. The A700 and the SRH440 (even the M50 or SRH840 for that matter) can be driven well from your average portable player. They don't need an amp. A lot of cans can benefit from an amp if you want to take advantage of one, and you have spare funds. It's an important distinction. I use an entry point amp for my 840's because there is a benefit for me (increased fidelity). But they do not need it, and sound pretty good out of my iPod unamped anyway.
The question of whether you need a DAC is entirely dependent on your source. If you primarily use a laptop, some people find the use of an external USB DAC/AMP helps by giving a cleaner signal. If you listen from your PC, and are using onboard sound, a DAC can also help - but again it may not be necessary. My advice for now would be to get your cans first - then once you get them, if you want to take an extra step, do some more research on a suitable DAC or DAC/amp combo. You may be perfectly happy without one - so take little steps.
On the question of the A700's. I own the open equivalent AD700. They are really comfortable - but can be loose at times. One thing you can do easily is use a rubber band to loop the two 'wings' together. It provides some additional clamping if you worry about slippage. They are very comfortable though. For your genres (not looking for big bass), either they or the 440's will be a good choice to start with.
Get the cans first, get used to them, and then if you want to step up from there, come back and ask for more advice. I hope this helps. Posters like Mav, Armaegis, CleOS, Joker, EU, Estreeter etc have helped me immensely. Again, just be careful with what you read - and whose advice you take.
): Yes I thought that also but coudln't find anything within the price range. If an amp is unnecessary though, that might allow for more expensive open cans that still dont need amping right?
