[Kryz1986]

Hey Head-Fi Community,
I'm new to the forum as my interest for audiophile quality has recently developed.

My current set up as the title states is the Audio Technica ATH-M50X and FiiO E17K that's connected via USB to my PC which I love however I'd like a different listening experience to work in contrast with this current one.

I'm looking at headphones with wider soundstage and imaging...are Open-Backed the way to go?

I'm on a budget and cannot spend thousands of dollars on audio equipment though.
I could possibly spend $500.00 - $600.00 on a new headphone and dac/amp combination.

Any and all suggestions are welcomed.

Thanks,
Kryz1986

 

[Rhamnetin]

Are there any specific attributes about the M50X that you'd like improved upon?

Otherwise, I would suggest either the ZMF Classic or Argon MK3, a Schiit Modi 2 or ODAC, and either a Schiit Magni 3 or Objective2 amp.

 

[khayo]

That was my first setup! I moved on to HD600 and O2/ODAC so that might be a worthwhile next step!

 

[ProtegeManiac]

My current set up as the title states is the Audio Technica ATH-M50X and FiiO E17K that's connected via USB to my PC which I love however I'd like a different listening experience to work in contrast with this current one.

I'm looking at headphones with wider soundstage and imaging...are Open-Backed the way to go?

I'm on a budget and cannot spend thousands of dollars on audio equipment though.
I could possibly spend $500.00 - $600.00 on a new headphone and dac/amp combination.

HiFiMan HE400S ($200 on Amazon) or AKG K702 (under $220 on Amazon) and an AudioGD NFB-11 ($370+shipping, maybe tariffs).

 

[Me x3]

You should consider the Beyerdynamic DT1990 PRO and Beyerdynamic Amiron
Amiron is warmer and more easy going, while DT1990 PRO is just a tad faster and more analytical.

 

[tazzbass]

@Me x3 , do you still suggest the DT1990 pro's at 2020? Or are there better options to look into?
Im also upgrading from ATH m50x for monitoring purpose, but have grown in the IEM & DAP ends recently.
Thus searching for a neutral reference sound with more energetic lower end.
Iv so far found my choices into: Hifiman Ananda, DT1990 pro, Sennheiser HD650.