[GosuEric]

I've had my 555's for over two years, and I'm rather happy with them. Comfortable, nice sound, and all that. Though after spending a bit of time in the IEM department and amps and such, I've been feeling like my 555's are... lacking. They're wonderful really, but they just seem to lack something.

I have Image X10s as my portable headphones, and I love 'em. Maybe something with a similar sound like that?

I also looked a lot into the 595's, reading that they're pretty much the most neutral cans is a great thing imo. I like the slight warmth from the X10s, but it's not exactly required.

Something that would sound great unamped would be preferred, or if people have recommendations for a good setup via Headphones/USB DAC/Amp I wouldn't mind that either.

I'll be buying online and am in the US, so I think I have a fairy open amount of choices here. The only thing that's caught my eye at the moment are the 595s like I said.

I'd prefer Open to Closed, but it's not required. Hopefully I can get soem good suggestions going!

I'd say a limit on my spending is maybe... $200ish, can be stretched (a fair bit) if I can get some really good recommendations.

 

[Funky-kun]

I would not advise you to buy the 595s, as I am fairly sure they are 95% the same cans. I am a previous owner of them, and felt the same way you do about your 555s.

First, note that good amplification definitely livens up the headphones. If you are planning on building a PC-based listening setup, I would advise you to take a look at the Xonar Essence STX - soundcard with a dedicated headphone amp (better than most in that price range mind you) and a very capable DAC. It made a huge improvement in my 595s over the X-Fi -> Total Airhead setup I used before - increases bottom end and detail considerably. It also fits nice in your price range.

If you like the Senn sound you could look into the HD600, although it is a bit over your budget. I assure you they will be a great leap in quality. If not, there are an awful lot of opportunities, depending on the sound qualities you are after. Mind to share some of that information?

 

[MrKazador]

There was some pictures posted of the HD595 internals and it seems to use the same exact driver. The only difference is the HD555 has a foam piece behind the driver.

 

[mbd2884]

AD700. While I love my HD650s, I never recommend the HD555 or HD595. For the $200 range for Open, AD700 get's my vote. Get an Amp with the savings, the Little Dot 1+ hybrid is only $99

I have also read a few posts where QQQ says buying the HD595 is a waste. Says buy the HD555 and remove the foam /shrug

 

[GosuEric]

How would I remove the foam?

And I'm not looking only into Sennheiser, that's just the only brand that I've looked at. Anything's a worthwhile suggestion, regardless of brand.

As for sound quality I'm into, I'm not exactly sure, it's a bit tough. I listen to lots of Soundtracks (Final Fantasy, stuff like that), so I guess a good representation of every single part of the spectrum would work well. Something like the 555's with more bass and maybe a wider soundstage seems like a good idea.

I also read that Grados are a bit more 'in your face' kind of style, good for Rock, is that true? I have a good amount of rock/prog rock and stuff that I'd really like to breathe life into with a good pair of headphones.

As for PC and all that, I'm looking at building a new PC soon, thus good sound card/dac/amp recommendations would be helpful as well, but that's not for a good while. I think I'd ask for full on recommendations when the time comes.

 

[Suntory_Times]

I'd say look for a used HD600.

 

[slick1ru2]

Want some punch? Grado 80