[gamerk2]

Here's my conundrum: I'm primarily a PC user who's been using the combination of a Creative Sounblaster Z soundcard with a Audio Technica ATH-M50 (not the M50s) headphones for a while. While I like the headphones, I have a few reasons for wanting to upgrade. And frankly, I'm not entirely sure where I should go with for a replacement.

The primary reasons I want to upgrade are:

1: I'm gaming with my friends (who are primarily Xbox One users) on my PC since crossplay is a thing now. Currently, I'm using a PlayStation Wireless Gold as a stop-gap measure. I'd like to be able to take advantage of my PC soundcard; it's there for a reason. I'm aware I can get a stand-alone microphone as well, but since I'm looking to replace my headphones anyway a headset is more convenient.

2: I find the ATH-M50 isn't comfortable over long sessions. The main problem is the headphones drill the back of my glasses into my skull. I'd prefer something with a little less head clamp, preferably an around-the-ear headset. For reference, the PlayStation Wireless Gold headset fits my head perfectly.

One final note: I literally have about a dozen headsets where due to various incidents have one side not working, ranging from cheap $10 models to much more upscale models (specifically, my BeyerDynamic DT 880's). I beat up my headsets pretty good over time, since when I listen to music I tend to move a lot. It's worth noting, while other headsets barely last me a month or two, my ATH-M50 has lasted almost a decade; that headset has withstood the test of time. I'd prefer something that won't break the first time I yank the cord on it.

Basically, I want a relatively well built headset that is at least as good as the ATH-M50 when it comes to listening to music, that is comfortable for long sessions. Any suggestions?

 

[gimmeheadroom]

HD 25 but not everybody finds them comfortable. They'll take a beating and every part is available separately so they will live forever.

They are secure on the head, can scale mightily, and sound great without needing much amp.

 

[ruinedx]

yeah if you don't need mic HD25 a good choice. can run over with car and will survive

but if you do want mic Sennheiser GSP500 a better choice, since hd25 has no mic. I have pretty large head and at max size gsp500 fits well: https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-GSP-500-Acoustic-Headset/dp/B07CK4J1SW
GSP500 also will be able to hear yourself talk better when on mic since its open back

 

[gamerk2]

yeah if you don't need mic HD25 a good choice. can run over with car and will survive

but if you do want mic Sennheiser GSP500 a better choice, since hd25 has no mic. I have pretty large head and at max size gsp500 fits well: https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-GSP-500-Acoustic-Headset/dp/B07CK4J1SW
GSP500 also will be able to hear yourself talk better when on mic since its open back

I ultimately went with the GSP500's; they should be arriving on Thursday. Thanks for the recommendation.

 

[jasswolf]

Build quality aside, surprised that no one strolled in and suggested the AKG K371?

Given your history, it might be worth buying a soldering kit and learning how to re-solder whatever you've yanked out of place in the Beyers.

 

[ruinedx]

Build quality aside, surprised that no one strolled in and suggested the AKG K371?

Given your history, it might be worth buying a soldering kit and learning how to re-solder whatever you've yanked out of place in the Beyers.

He wanted headphones with a mic attached.

 

[gamerk2]

Headset arrived this afternoon. Like it so far; comfortable, detachable cable is great (note to self: Get an extension). Lows are definitely more pronounced then the ATH-M50; going to take a bit of getting used to.