I was told Maxwells when I first started as well, they wouldn't hurt. The First Headphones I got were HD201's and they really got me into this hobby. I still use them even if I'm currently moving up the ladder.
I say try and start small, don't go blow $200 on something you've not tried. Not saying you won't be happy, but you might get something you didn't expect. Or you might hate it. So yeah try and audition them first before you drop so much money OR start small and work your way up.
Build you rig!
Another thing you might want to consider is getting your full set up together before you start looking to spend a bunch of money on expensive cans. Start with something like an HD 201 or Maxwell dhp-II and use the rest of your money on an amp/source. Spread your money evenly for best results, the best part is if you did like I did last night and just get someones older(vintage even) reciever/amp/DAC/CD player you can probably get it for cheap or free( like I did). This will give you a nice base to build on to achieve a high quality set of audio equipment on a strict budget!
Work the Marketplace!
Head fi has one of the best marketplaces for audio equipment on the internet! Not even ebay or Craigslist can compare with this site! The deals you find on their can range from "Pretty good" to "OMG I spent almost nothing for this!"
If it sounds great but looks terrible does it matter?
Cosmetics don't mean much if it will never leave your room, and often you can get better used headphones that have a little damage for MUCH cheaper. This is great for you and the person who is selling, most of the time they are upgrading and their old faithfuls have a few scars, just means they were loved right?
Your ears are what matters!
I'm a little bit of a broken record on this but it's an absolutely important fact that every new kid needs to learn, and one I was taught. YOU! Yes you! Your Ears matter, my opinion doesn't. Take it with a grain of salt and make up your own mind about how you feel about things. If you think X headphones are the best you've ever used and I disagree, well then our opinions differ due to different tastes. This is due to the completely subjective subject that is audio. So please and do your self a favor and make up your own mind, don't let others convince you will feel the same way they do.
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This is in the Portable Headphone and IEMs sub forum, so I assume you want a good set of portable cans or IEMs then?
Don't hold your breath, this forum has some of the most lax guidelines on where things should be posted.
