New Over Ear Advice

[jibber4568]

Hi Guys,
 
Been reading these forums for a few days and was hoping you would be able to give me some pointers in purchasing some new headphones.
 
A bit of background. I've owned a pair of AKG K450 for the past 18 months and simply had enough of them now. I've treated them with nothing but care yet I've been through 5 replacement cables within that time. Other than the cable they have been a decent set of headphones however at no point have they really given me that wow factor.
 
So I've now decided to make the change. I've always preferred the over ear headphones so will now be looking to purchase a pair.
 
I'm no audiophile to be honest however I can appreciate it when something sounds good. I often read people stating that certain headphones are warm/clear/neutral etc and don't really know what the majority of this means. I'd love it if someone could enlighten me.
 
My budget for the new set are around £150, I don't really want to go above this. 
 
My music tastes are quite varied but I suppose my real passions are good rock (Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Alice in Chains etc). I listen to a fair bit of indie, hip hop, electronic, and instrumental music as well but the rock and indie are my real base.
 
 
The headphones I've been reading a lot of great reviews about are the SoundMagic HP100's, everywhere I look people seem to be rating these very highly. I'm tempted to purchase a pair but have a few questions.
 
Would these suit my music tastes?
I'm generally going to be using them at my desk at work and commuting on the train. What are they like for a commute? They have a curly cord, what is this like for walking? I do a 30 min walk/train that usually has me standing up so I'm a bit concerned that they may become heavy/uncomfortable/awkward during this time. I'd love to hear from people who have used these in similar situations.
 
Anyway apologies for the lengthy opening post, I was just hoping someone could point me in the right direction as to whether the SoundMagic's are a good choice for my requirements and any other advice people may be able to give.
 
Many thanks.
 
Jibber4568

 

[jibber4568]

Also been looking at the Beyerdynamic DT770 so would love to hear of anybody's thoughts on comparisons between the two.

Thanks.
 

 

[Me x3]

Hi,
 
This is a good starting point:
http://www.head-fi.org/a/describing-sound-a-glossary
 
I think SoundMagic HP100 is a solid pick. (No Amp needed)
 
Beyerdynamic DT770 32 Ohms doesn't get very good reviews. DT 770 80 Ohms and DT770 250 Ohms are both highly regarded headphones and both need extra amplification (Fiio E10 for example) to sound its best. DT770 80 Ohm have more bass, while 250 Ohm versions are more neutral but still good bass.
 
You should also consider Shure SRH-840. They come with extra pads and detacheable cable. This don't need extra amplification.
 
Best Luck!

 

[jibber4568]

Hi Me x3,
 
Many thanks for your response. Really helped me out in my decision process. I think I'm most likely going to go for the SoundMagic's. The Shure's look nice but are just a bit over my budget. The Soundmagic's really are at the top of my budget.
 
I think I'm pretty much ready to purchase. The only concern I still have is the curly cable for when I'm commuting. Has anyone had much experience of using these on the go? Or does anyone know if it's possible to get hold of a straight cable like they supply with the HP200?
 
 
Thanks.