MS-1 vs Grado SR-80 vs Senny HD Pro 280 for classical music

[Facade19]

I am looking forward on purchasing one of these three (since they are in my price range and have got recommendations for them) for my classical music needs. I have a 30GB ipod and as well as logitech z-5500 hooked up to my PS3. I like to listen to music on headphones, but I am ready to make the plunge into higher end headphones. As for now an amp is being considered for the z-5500's (if you have any recommendations please let me know). The thing that most concerns me is that I am unable to try these headphones before buying them and therefore do not know if I will like them or not. And $100 are quite alot (to me that is). I rather buy new than used (personal preference). I really really love classical music (ranging for classicism to modern, from romanticism to impressionism, large orchestral works to piano solos). I am specifically looking for which one would suit me better for classical music, hence the dedicated thread. Please me help me out, thx!!

 

[BigSurSpoon]

If all you listen to is classical, then I personally think that they sr-80's are out of the question. I have not heard the MS-1's, so I can't really comment on those except that they are apparently mellower than the '80s, but having owned both of the other phones, I can say that the HD-280's would probably be a better choice for classical. Also, I don't know if it matters, but the HD-280's are closed phones and block out quite a bit of sound compared to the MS-1's and SR80's, so it might help when listening to softer music.

BTW, I also own the z-5500's and I used to use them with the HD-280. I didn't like the senn's for rock, but they were pretty good for classical.

 

[Chris_Himself]

LOOK HOW HAPPY I AM WITH SR80s!

 

[Televator]

for classical you might want to check out Audio Technica's ATH-A700 (closed, $129) & AD700 (open, $109 both prices from audiocubes without shipping). Both these headphones are very efficient and can be used without or with an amp.

I have the A900 (closed, one model up) and for jazz and (large scale) classical I sometimes prefer it over the (more expensive) MS2i. Still, the lower level closed ATHs (A900/A700) are known to have a bit recessed mids (which make voices sound a bit nasal) and a bass that's a bit muddied. Unless you need it, I would opt for the open ATHs.

 

[cherepashka]

Why not 580?

 

[mdarnton]

I guess I'm dense, because I never understand when someone says certain phones are "for" certain types of music. My SR80s are fine for classical, and everything else, on days when I like that sound, and not when I don't. I switch around a lot, depending on how my ears and aesthetics are working, but never because of what the phones are "for". I would recommend that if you want to buy something that you check it out yourself, and see how *you* feel.

 

[porschemad911]

I own both the MS-1 and HD-280, and prefer the HD-280. I really enjoy listening to classical at work on this 'phone. A little Handel's 'Messiah' makes work wonderful!

 

[Facade19]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdarnton /img/forum/go_quote.gif I guess I'm dense, because I never understand when someone says certain phones are "for" certain types of music. My SR80s are fine for classical, and everything else, on days when I like that sound, and not when I don't. I switch around a lot, depending on how my ears and aesthetics are working, but never because of what the phones are "for". I would recommend that if you want to buy something that you check it out yourself, and see how *you* feel.

Well I would love to do that as you suggest, but the problem is that I do not know of a single store within my perimeter that carries any of the three headphones I listed and let alone would allow potential owners from trying them on. Certainly I could order all three at the same time and choose which one I like more, but I am not able nor willing to pay for three headphones, plus shipping costs, then have them returned (with potential restocking fees) as well as shipping costs back to the store I purchased them from. So the only way for me to find more information and a "taste" is by asking forum members who actual own a pair of either of the three of them.

One more thing. On an all around basis (meaning from multiple musical genre's) which headphone would you recommend?

Thank you all for your replies. You do not know how much I value them.

 

[Facade19]

Ok all who have read this thread so far, I just ordered the MS-1's.
The price range was what I was looking for and they are open headed, which was another element I wanted after research. Let's hope that everything goes smooth and my experience will be a pleasant one. Thank you everyone for all your input.

 

[Chris_Himself]

oh no, weve lost the battle.

 

[Facade19]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris_Himself /img/forum/go_quote.gif oh no, weve lost the battle.

 

[StealthR6]

AKG K501 + amp = ideal classical experience within a reasonable budget.

 

[BrookR1]

I actually think the MS-1s would be better for classical than the SR-80s. I think he made a good choice.

 

[Facade19]

Next item on my list will be a fairly reasonable ipod amp. Sep. 8 is my b-day so by then I shall be able to afford one. Recommendations are welcomed.

 

[epaludo]

I don't like my Grados at all for classical music. On the other hand, my K701 is brilliant for classical. Superb instrument separation and soundstage.
Have read a lot of good comments on the Senns for classicals, but not the HD280. Mostly the HD600 and HD650 ...