[brett42]

I'm thinking about buying a pair of headphones to go with my computer for less than $50. The computer has a santa cruz soundcard, and I'm using it mostly for games, and some (variable quality) mp3s. Until now, my mx400 earbuds are the best i've heard, so I'm pretty ignorant about sound quality, but I've skimmed through this forum and headphone.com looking for ideas.

I'm planning on buying from amazon, and they don't sell grados, so I've narrowed it down to the 457s for $30 or the 497s for $50. I've been led to understand that the 497s are better, but for my purposes, is the extra $20 worth it? I'm also open to suggestions for other models I should consider.

 

[raynegus]

The Senn 590s are nice for computer use, they are easier to drive from a weaker computer amp. You can get them on Ebay for about $160 shipped.

While I love the Grados, I found them a little too bright for games, but maybe you like that. They hurt my ears after a while.

 

[SportaJoe]

I just got a santa cruz last night,and what a difference.im using it with the 497,s and it is awesome.i cant speak for the 457,s but you wont be dissapointed in the 497,s. I also have grado sr 60,s and in my opinion the 497,s hold their own quite nicely.Other options would be Portapro, Sportapro ,ksc35/50,maybe even philips hp170 at target for 20.00.due a search on these for more info.Hey this must be the newbie thread,we got a whopping 7 posts between us!!

 

[Hiker]

Hey. I use the 497s with both the Santa Cruz and the Audigy 2 and am very pleased. I would really skip the 457s because the 497s are definately worth the extra $20.

Hiker