[jayyyb]

Hi guys, I'm not sure that this is the right place to ask this, but hey I thought I'd try anyway...

I'm looking to get some big full size headphones to be used with a pc. The connection must be USB, as I get too much inteference through a normal jack connection at present.

I have quite large ears, and will be wearing them for quite a while, so size and comfort are a must.

I would want the headphones to be wired, I don't require a microphone, although I understand many of them come with one (it would be nice to remove it if possible).

Sennheiser do a range, but I have limited knowledge in this area, so, does anyone here have any experience with usb headphones?

If so I'd really appreciate their feedback and recommendations..

Many thanks for reading

 

[1Time]

I wasn't aware that headphones had USB connectors. I use the HotUSB1 USB DAC/amp that connects to my PC with a USB cable. And then I plug my headphones into the HotUSB1. Maybe you're needing something like that and headphones. The HotUSB1 is sold on eBay for about $60. What's your budget for this purchase?

 

[jayyyb]

Hi thanks for replying...

Yeah I forgot to mention that I have a budget of less than £100 (approx $150ish)

I hadn't thought about using a usb middleman thing... sounds interesting, but I wonder how it would alter the sound (if it does at all). I assume the Sennheiser ones (which are made specifically for PC gaming) have all sort of audio tweaking controls.

but to be fair I'm mostly bothered about sound quality.

 

[1Time]

Sound quality for music or gaming?

 

[jayyyb]

well, whatever is coming through my pc I guess... but if I was pushed... then gaming..

 

[1Time]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jayyyb /img/forum/go_quote.gif well, whatever is coming through my pc I guess... but if I was pushed... then gaming..

OK, so do you have a gaming sound card for your PC, or were you also wanting to buy one, or were you thinking of using your PC's onboard sound?

 

[jayyyb]

on-board sound I'm afraid.. I don't intend to get a soundcard

 

[1Time]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jayyyb /img/forum/go_quote.gif on-board sound I'm afraid.. I don't intend to get a soundcard

OK, a few options...

1. Buy the HotUSB1 for about $60 shipped. Its DAC will sound better than your onboard sound, and it will amp your headphones better than your onboard sound. Buy headphones like the AD700, HD555, D1001, or RX900 (a few examples from ~$57 to ~$100) with what's left from your budget. The HotUSB1 will provide stereo sound, not surround sound, but should work quite well for most gaming, music, etc. Buy a separate Logitec mic if needed.

2. Buy higher priced headphones than those mentioned from your budget that you think you would prefer, and plug it into your onboard sound. Buy a separate Logitec mic if needed. Optionally buy an inexpensive amp like a Fiio if money is left over from your budget.

3. Buy USB headphones for the surround sound feature.

I suggest taking the advice of Head-Fiers who offer it. The first option would be my choice.

 

[PuffyElvis]

Sennheiser HD-280 Pro $99 msrp (but you can get them a little cheaper online). Great closed back headphone with plenty of bass, though some would say it is a bit boomy. Then get a usb headphone adapter for around $25.

 

[jayyyb]

thanks for all the great info guys, I'll have a look into what you suggest...

 

[moogoob]

External USB DACs are the way to go if you don't need/want surround.

 

[1Time]

Quote:

Originally Posted by moogoob /img/forum/go_quote.gif External USB DACs are the way to go if you don't need/want surround.

That's what I expected most here would say. The HotUSB1 is a USB DAC/amp, probably the least expensive around at ~$60 shipped and probably the best at that price. Nice sound quality too.

 

[genclaymore]

I seen the Sennishers HD555 for around 90 ir not a bit more on amazon, But I dont know how they sound. And Also there open back.