[csm725]

Need them for gaming - some bass, good stage, adjustable are all pluses.
Are these the right ones for me?

 

[elsdon]

Many people think the HD558 with a Zalman mic is quite good.. Myself personally, I prefer a closed headphone instead. I am spending my money on the PC350 as it has a built in mic. What kind of soundcard do you have?

 

[csm725]

I have the Zalman mic sitting on my desk.
Sound card is a NuForce USB DAC, amps up to 300 Ohms.

 

[elsdon]

You could also consider the Audio Technica ATH-A700's or ATH-M50
 
Personally, I prefer the Sennheiser sound for gaming but everyone has their own preference.

 

[csm725]

Seems the HD 558's are the choice for me then.

 

[liamstrain]

They represent excellent sound quality for the money. Hard to go wrong with them.

 

[elsdon]

You can also search the forum for a HD558 mod to bring their sound similar to the slightly more expensive HD598. Many folks swear by that as well.

 

[csm725]

The foam mod? I read it increases bass but the mids are highs get a bit muddier.

 

[elsdon]

I think there are two different ones.. one foam mod, and one tape mod. From what I've been hearing, it actually clears everything up.. Much punchier.

 

[anhtu1990]

owning both ad700 and hd558 atm. both are very good. really happy and don't want to sell anyone

 

[csm725]

Do the 558's sit higher on your head than the 700's?

 

[DreamKing]

 
Quote:

The foam mod? I read it increases bass but the mids are highs get a bit muddier.

Mike @ headfonia says the mids actually get slightly better than on the 598s with the mod...bass is obviously increased but nothing gets worse than it already is. foam / tape mod is the same thing. The mod is completely worth it. HD-598s still have more detail and soundstage though and benefit more from a good amp than the 558s.

 

[csm725]

Don't they make for harsher treble?

 

[ztreb185]

Btw altering your headphones will void the 2 year warranty that comes with it.

 

[keanex]

I didn't like the HD558 without an amp.