Open-Back Headphones Under $175
Jun 3, 2015 at 3:13 PM Thread Starter Post #1 of 16
GeneralLed

GeneralLed

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So I'm looking for a new pair of headphones under $175. I listen to a variety of music from rock to electronic (no rap or pop). The headphones would also be used for gaming and casual watching of youtube videos and twitch streams.Currently I have a pair of CHC Silverados and while they are pretty good, I can barely hear anything when I have both headphones on. Preferably I'd like to spend as little as possible while still getting good sound. Any help would be appreciated.
 
Edit:I've heard that the HD558 are very similar to the HD598 especially if I mod them. Would it be better to go with the HD558 over the HD598? Or is the extra $35 worth it?
 
Jun 4, 2015 at 2:37 AM Post #2 of 16
Look into the Sennheiser HD598: http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-598-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B0042A8CW2/

These are well known for being very good for gaming and music, and they have very good comfort. You might also look into the HD558 which is a good bit cheaper, yet can be made to sound similar to the HD598 very easily: http://www.headfonia.com/sennheisers-new-hd558-and-hd598/3/
 
Jun 4, 2015 at 10:51 PM Post #4 of 16
Problem is that you are just hitting the point where the first level of good open cans are normally priced.
 
The exception might be the entry levels of Grado that can be had for under $100.  However, they--and what they do well--aren't what you're seeking.
 
Jun 4, 2015 at 11:04 PM Post #5 of 16
kg jag said:
  Problem is that you are just hitting the point where the first level of good open cans are normally priced.
 
The exception might be the entry levels of Grado that can be had for under $100.  However, they--and what they do well--aren't what you're seeking.
Click to expand...

What would be a good pair to get? I've looked at Grado but from what I've heard from people there are better solutions out there.
 
Jun 4, 2015 at 11:17 PM Post #7 of 16
cel4145 said:
Look into the Sennheiser HD598: http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-598-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B0042A8CW2/

These are well known for being very good for gaming and music, and they have very good comfort. You might also look into the HD558 which is a good bit cheaper, yet can be made to sound similar to the HD598 very easily: http://www.headfonia.com/sennheisers-new-hd558-and-hd598/3/
Click to expand...

Is the HD598's worth the extra $35? Or should I just go for the HD558?
 
Jun 4, 2015 at 11:56 PM Post #8 of 16
generalled said:
Is the HD598's worth the extra $35? Or should I just go for the HD558?
Click to expand...


I were going to make this decision, I would get the HD598s since (a) they are considered a bit better and (b) I would always second guess myself. But is it *worth* the extra money? That's a hard question because it will depend on what that $35 is worth to you.
 
Jun 5, 2015 at 7:50 AM Post #9 of 16
Not a gamer but here's a good thread for gaming headphones...and some other options to consider.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/534479/mad-lust-envys-headphone-gaming-guide-5-31-2015-beyer-cop-and-shure-1540-added

AKG K612 Pros's for around $130ish depending on vendor you buy them from on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/AKG-Pro-Audio-K612PRO-Reference/dp/B00DCXZY1W

Audio Technica AD700's for $111
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD700X-Audiophile-Headphones/dp/B009S332TQ

Beyer DT990s for $175
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0011UB9CQ

FWIW, I got some Q701s in 'like new' condition from Amazon Warehouse for $139 last year; couldn't tell they'd been used...really wonder if they were. From a music listening standpoint, they are a great value at that price and apparently an 'Amazing' gaming headphone as well.

Also, the Philips X1s are showing up regularly on deals for $150 or less now as well
 
Jun 5, 2015 at 2:44 PM Post #11 of 16
Fidelio X1 all the way as long as you don't have an above average size head. Warm, great sound stage, great bass for an open can (slightly loose). Also they're compatible with a Boompro mic from vmoda. Best option if you're going to game and chat.
 
Jun 5, 2015 at 8:52 PM Post #13 of 16
gearme said:
Not a gamer but here's a good thread for gaming headphones...and some other options to consider.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/534479/mad-lust-envys-headphone-gaming-guide-5-31-2015-beyer-cop-and-shure-1540-added

AKG K612 Pros's for around $130ish depending on vendor you buy them from on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/AKG-Pro-Audio-K612PRO-Reference/dp/B00DCXZY1W

Audio Technica AD700's for $111
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD700X-Audiophile-Headphones/dp/B009S332TQ

Beyer DT990s for $175
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0011UB9CQ

FWIW, I got some Q701s in 'like new' condition from Amazon Warehouse for $139 last year; couldn't tell they'd been used...really wonder if they were. From a music listening standpoint, they are a great value at that price and apparently an 'Amazing' gaming headphone as well.

Also, the Philips X1s are showing up regularly on deals for $150 or less now as well
Click to expand...

 
 
johnlist said:
  It is my experience that low priced open headphones generally suck. For that price you can buy really good closed back. HD598 and HD558 are wonderful examples of this. No real bass and uncontrolled mess.
 
However AKG K612 could be better choice than HD598.
Click to expand...

 
So I'm between the HD598 and K612. If I were to go with the K612 I would have to get and amp(fiio E10k) which would bring the total to $204 where as with the HD598 I would not need an amp and they are only $150. Would it be worth spending the extra $50?
 
Jun 5, 2015 at 9:08 PM Post #15 of 16
generalled said:
So I'm between the HD598 and K612. If I were to go with the K612 I would have to get and amp(fiio E10k) which would bring the total to $204 where as with the HD598 I would not need an amp and they are only $150. Would it be worth spending the extra $50?
Click to expand...


Not unless you could hear them and choose between them. I'd say get the HD598s. There's always time to buy more headphones in the future :D
 
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