[EricDH]

Dear Head-Fi friends. I have the Oppo PM-3 for a couple of years now, and I use it when I travel (which happens every other week). Although I am very careful with my headphones, the pads start to wear. Not sure if I still can get original Oppo replacement pads. If I could find replacement pads from leather that would be even better. I know there is some info on the PM-3 listening impressions thread.

But if I don't find replacement pads, or if the quality of pads I find is not what I need, then there is only one solution, new headphones. Which headphones should I consider? Obviously they need to be closed back. I like to have a sound signature that is not too far from the PM-3, i.e. neutral. It would be nice if the high frequencies don't roll off as the PM-3 does, but otherwise I am really happy with the sound (and with silver replacement cable the highs are sparkling enough). In addition, they should be as foldable as the PM-3, good for traveling. And preferably not too much more expensive than the PM-3 was (USD 400), although I am willing to stretch my budget for something that is really what I want.

I hope there is something that fits the above description.

 

[serman005]

NAD HP50 or SoundMAGIC HP50 could possibly work. Worth looking into, probably.

 

[EricDH]

Thanks. Will look into it. Only, based on reviews I always had the impression that the NAD was a step lower than the PM-3.

 

[serman005]

Thanks. Will look into it. Only, based on reviews I always had the impression that the NAD was a step lower than the PM-3.

It's a pretty good value, I think. Good luck. And let me correct myself--the SoundMAGIC HP151 is the new version of the 150. It has superior build quality. A great-sounding headphone all around.

 

[EricDH]

After some looking around, it seems like the Mr Speakers Aeon Flow Closed are a good choice. Twice the price of the PM-3, true, but also planar, also very neutral. Basically what I am looking for.