[arbakken]

I'm in need of some new headphones for work. I was using an old set of ATH-M30s, but I broke the cord. I almost was going to replace the cord, but I brought in my Sennheiser HD280 and realized how much the M30s kinda suck. I like the HD280s, but they do far too good of a job isolating noise, and I need to be able to hear the intercom and people talking to me. I'll be driving them off the computer soundcard (at least for now) so nothing crazy.
 
After a lot of research, I have narrowed it down to (although not limited to) the Audio Technica ATH-AD900X and Sennheiser HD-598. Near as I can tell, they both sound really good and are about the same price. There might be a slight nod to the AD900X in SQ and they are cheaper, but I'll be potentially wearing them all day and taking them on and off a lot. The HD598 looks to be more comfortable and easier to take on and off.
 
Anyone have any thoughts before I drop lots of (relative!) money on headphones? Others to consider?
 
Thanks!

 

[billybob_jcv]

Are there any people sitting near you that would be bothered by your music leaking out? Low-isolation is a two-edged sword. If sound can get in, that also means sound can get out.

 

[arbakken]

Leaking isn't an issue, I borrowed a friend's set of open back cans and it was fine at any sane listening level. If there were a middle ground it wouldn't hurt, but I don't think there is

 

[arbakken]

Anyone? I guess I've pretty much come to the conclusion that it's unlikely that I can tell the difference between the two, I'm more concerned about how comfortable they are, how easy to take on and off, and how durable they are.

 

[cel4145]

I'm not a fan of the AD900X wing system, so I'd go with the Senns.

Not a lot else in the ~150 range unless you spend a little more for the AKG K612 Pro. But they generally need a headphone amp (not as easy to drive as the AD900X or H598).

 

[billybob_jcv]

IMHO, they have very different sound signatures. To my ears (I only had brief tries with both) the Sennheisers were much warmer and smoother. The AD900X were much brighter.

 

[arbakken]

How are the AKG Q701s? There is a pair in the local classifieds for $125. Sounds like they're a little flat on the bass and need an amp as well? Again, I wouldn't mind eventually amping but I would like it to be an upgrade not a necessity