High end earphones without amp

[Dave8457937842]

For years I've used the Sennheiser HD25 headphones. The sound quality is great, the headphones are indestructible.

Recently I've decided they're too big and bulky. I need some in-ear-phones. I will be plugging them directly into my Android phone (no amp).

I bought a pair of Sennheiser Momentum earbuds, and I haven't been blown away. The sound just isn't as tight as with the HD25s.

However, reviews on many of the higher-end earbuds state that a headphone amp is needed to get the best out of them. For obvious hygiene reasons it's difficult to test earbuds before buying.

Anyone have a recommendation for earbuds that will sound as tight, crisp and clear as my HD25s when driven directly from my Android phone?

I'm thinking:

RHA T20
Shure SE425
AKG N40
Grado GR10
Shure SE535

 

[buke9]

I have not heard the HD-25's so I don't know what compares well. One pair I like is the Echobox Finders X-1's definitely tight , crisp and clear. They now come with mic and controls. They have three tuning nozzles to adjust the sound to your liking also. Just something to consider.

 

[Roen]

Any of the Shure's are not power sensitive. They are output impedance sensitive instead.

Just check that the sound signature of those IEMs are what you like.