Inexpensive headphones for music samples.

[Carlos3]

Now that I have grown accustomed (addicted?) to decent sound via my main system, plugging my HD-580s into my computer is akin to having sonic nails driven into my skull. Unfortunately my primary vehicle for auditioning new music prior to purchase is via the sound samples on various websites (yahoo music, amazon, etc) - the .asf, .rm, .mp3, and similar low rez digital files.

I need a set of inexpensive (around $50 or less), extremely forgiving cans that will sound pleasant and accurate (uncoloured) via my computer output. I prefer circumnaural but am willing to entertain other options due to my price point. I have a strong preference for open cans.

Any recommendations?

 

[amdrulez]

Sennheiser HD497... they are extremely easy to drive from a computer sound card and they sound pretty good too. If you look around, I think you can find them for $50. Otherwise I'd say Koss KSC-50 (I'd say KSC-35s or Portapros but I haven't heard the 35s or Portapros and I'd be basing my recommendation on the general consensus of this forum). The KSC-50 usually run between $15 and $20.

 

[Carlos3]

Thanks. Looks like I'm going from Senn owner, to Senn collector.