[lindrone]

I need some suggestion/help in picking between the Sennheiser HD-590 and HD-580...

I know what a HD-580 sounds like, my roommate has one. I love the sound reproduction on it (paired with the right amp, of course), but I also know what it sounds like when it's unamped. I don't plan on getting a desk amp just yet, since right now I'm focused on getting myself a good portable solution (right now I'm trying the Shure E5c with different custom moldings)...

I've heard that the HD-590 takes much less powe to drive, so it sounds good from most sound sources even without an amp (well, better than HD-580 anyway). Does that mean this headphone doesn't pair up with amps as well as the HD-580?

Basically, somewhere down the line I might consider getting another amp for this headphone... I just don't know if by going the HD-590 route, that I might still need to switch to a HD-580 (or HD-600?... 650?) later on.

 

[blr]

It's true that HD590 are easier to drive and can be used without an amp, well depending on your source. IMO a 5mW portable is still not enough to make them really sing.
Compared to HD580 you'll find the HD590 somewhat brighter and more analytical perhaps. I used to say the HD590 are the Grados of Sennheiser, if you know what I mean.

It all depends on your source and sound prefference. HD590 will also benefit from an amp so at the end you'll perhaps consider getting one enyway.

 

[augustwest]

"blr" makes a good point (above), why not consider a headphone in the Grado line? Since the 590 is a step towards the Grado style of sound. All of their models are easier to drive than the Senn's

-augustwest

 

[Geek]

If you plan on upgrading in the future and like the sound of the HD580 amped it's probably a better idea to get the HD580s or HD600s.

Here's why:

You'll get the HD590 and probably enjoy its sound a lot (it is supposed to have a lively energetic sound, albeit colored). After a while, you'll have a revelation that what you're hearing isn't close to natural, and then pitch in for some HD600s.

Then you'll buy a full high end rig to power the HD600s, and finally be satisfied.

I know this because this is in essence what happened to me. I decided not to get HD580s, and instead bought DT770s, which were great cans for a while, until I heard HD580s for the first time at a LAN party. I couldn't believe that I hadn't bought the sennheisers. Then I just got sick of the colorations that the phones had.

So, I bought HD600s, the cardas cable, a maxed out home, dimarzio m-paths. . . basically spending about $2,000 or so but eventually ending up happy.

Cheers,
Geek

 

[Roy2001]

I tried CT570 to drive 590 directly. 570 is rated 9mv/16ohm, and it is just barely capable to drive it, but sound quality is an issue.

So with 590 you can use a GOOD portable to drive it now, but i still suggest you pair it with a amp.

 

[Eagle_Driver]

I used to own an HD-590. That 'phone just doesn't sound coherent enough for my tastes. Even on good equipment.

'Nuff said.

Eagle_Driver

 

[fyrfytrhoges]

I still use my hd590's when I'm in the mood, I find them very laid back and mellow, for the kind of music I listen to anyway.

 

[lindrone]

As it turned out, I ended up getting a HD-590 (got a deal on them anyway)... I'm not really planning on using much of an amp with it.. so I guess that doesn't play into the equation.

They are more colored than HD-580, and you're right about the comment for HD-590 being the most "grado" out of all the Senns. I didn't like Grados because I couldn't get over the discomfort and styling... it's just not a headphone I can wear for a long period of time, fatique is pretty important to me, especially in a home listening environment.

I got the HD-590 plugged into my computer, using an M-Audio Revolution as its source.. I have to say, for an unamped headphone, they sound very, very good. Even though they're not neutral, they're very enjoyable for casual listening. It's a good balance of being laid back and still have a pretty exciting sound signature.

Of course, if i was going to get an amp eventually, HD-590 probably wouldn't have worked out. Its sound signature changes very little with an amp. However, for a PC.. it's more than adequate.

Now I'm eyeing a CD3000 if I ever get to that point.. probably won't be for a while anyway

Of course, then I'll have to get an amp as well.

Thanks everyone for your inputs!

 

[Habib]

CD3000 is the way to go my man...