[ek17]

Hi, I'm looking for some suggestions and input on a new pair of headphones.
 
Budget: $150-$300 (USD) I don't mind getting new or used/refurbished (most bang for the buck)
 
Source- Macbook Pro (retina display), iphone 6, work pc, occasionaly schiit stack.
 
Requirements for Isolation- Will be used for commutes on train(1hr each way), and work primarily would prefer low to minimal leakage and decent isolation.
 
Preferred type of headphone- Undecided between IEM or Closed (best sound for the $$?)
 
Preferred Balance- Balanced and clear
 
Past Headphones- I have a pair of grados for home use, but normally listen to my speakers.
 
Preferred Music- Rock, Classic Rock, Metal, Jazz/Blues
 
Top Bands- Pink Floyd, Dream theater, Red Hot Chili peppers, Linkin Park(old stuff), Three Day Grace to name a few.
 
Overall: Looking for something to improve upon my standard white apple headphones for commuting and work. I cant decide between iem or closed would prefer whatever has the best "sound". I don't mind using a portable amp, and could probably bring my schiit stack from home to work when I upgrade at some point.
 
Thoughts so far: Mr. Speakers Mad Dog, HD25-1 ii, Dunu DN-2000, Etymotic ER4S
 
Thank you for any suggestions and input.

 

[PacoBdn]

[color=rgb(33, 33, 33)] As she discussed by you, and according to your tastes and preferences , my recommendation focuses on the D -2000 and Ety . The Dunu have a much more dramatic sound , with deep bass , they are warmer . However , I personally prefer the Ety , more balanced and above all transparent. Apart from the ergonomic point of view , they are more comfortable and light and sound-proof much . The only handicap of Ety could be lower frequencies , depending on your tastes in this regard. The Mad Dog and Senn HD -25 the rule because I do not consider portable.[/color]

 

[ek17]

I have a decent amount of space for a large set of headphones in my carrying case. If I did feel that I was able to use a closed set of headphones, which would you recommend. I am leaning towards the Ety as far as IEM go based on your description and the reading I have done so far.

 

[PacoBdn]

[color=rgb(33, 33, 33)] If you prefer a closed headphones and easy to move , I would look at the HP -150 Soundmagic . They are excellent . And they have a sound that you will like because it is very transparent. It has very good bass and the voices are not dumb. They have very good scene to be closed. In addition they are also very comfortable . They come with a short cable and one long . And the price is great. Cheers[/color]

 

[ek17]

Thank you, I'll take a look at them and make a decision between them and the Ety most likely.

 

[Tail]

 
Requirements for Isolation- Will be used for commutes on train(1hr each way), and work primarily would prefer low to minimal leakage and decent isolation.
 
Overall: Looking for something to improve upon my standard white apple headphones for commuting and work. I cant decide between iem or closed would prefer whatever has the best "sound". I don't mind using a portable amp, and could probably bring my schiit stack from home to work when I upgrade at some point.

Well I'd say in ears are clearly better for your plan of usage, better isolation, they are usually sensitive and low impedance so very suitable for any source, including iPhone. No need for any portable amp and they are more portable themselves. Also sound leakage is almost non existent and it won't ruin your haircut, if you care about that at all. Anyways, I vote for in ear all the way (also due to personal experience, a lot more convenient for daily commute, I take bus 1h each way instead of train, but the same situation).
 
Not sure about those particular models tho but you might add Shure SE425 to the list, I personally like bassier and more fun sound so they are not for me, but you said you want clear sound with good isolation, and these Shures are decently clear and isolate very well with no sound leakage at all, also comfort is on decent level and they stay secure inside your ears so no need to fit them every now and then while moving around. 

 

[Badfish5446]

Of my collection I could recommend the following:
 
SoundMagic HP150 - comfy, good isolation, fairly neutral with a nice peak in the sub-bass, good soundstage for a closed headphone.  Like them for most genres, not a top candidate if you are a lover of female vocals.  They can be a little forward and sound unnatural, Rock, EDM and Rap are their strong suits.
 
beyerdynamic DT1350 - I'm in the love it camp on this one, portable and fairly easy to drive.  Solid bass but quality control seemed to vary on the pre "facelift" version.  If found less than full price can be a good bargain.  Good all-rounder, again maybe not the best for female vocalists.
 
On the iem front I don't really have anything that fits that budget and purpose.  Most of my IEM's +$100 are vented or partially open in some regard. The RE-600 fits the bill but I have questions on its durability during your commute.  Those are quite neutral with a little roll off in the treble.  Good all-rounders and are flawless with vocals.   If you can stretch your budget to $530 BuySonic/Sonic Electronix has the IE800 on sale.  I picked that up recently and it's the only thing getting head time these days.  Absolutely perfect bass emphasis that in no way impinges on the mids.

 

[ek17]

Thanks, I will take a looks at the Shure SE425 as well. And another vote for the soundmagic HP150, I hadn't heard of them until today. I will definitely have to take a closer look. I believe I am leaning towards IEM currently. After reading a lot of reviews I am surprised that they compete just as well with full headphones. I wish I could stretch the budget to $530 and then to $870 and so on the next step is always right there! I have gone from trying to narrow choices to expanding and looking at tons of options. I am going to try to stick to my budget for this purchase unfortunately. I'keep my eye on the IE800 maybe I'll get lucky.