Quote:
budget: ~400 dollar
I will be using them primarily when I'm on the bus but I also want to use them on the computer (to game etc.) so I think good sound stage is also something that I'd like.
I like listening to 60s rock and blues but I am also a fan of today pop/dance music. But I primarily listen to rock.
Type I don't know really, I do want them to be portable so they cannot be too big. Aren't headphones slightly better than in-ears?
I think I am a basshead but I really don't like too much bass.
Thank you for doing this man!
Hey Niurez,
The good news is, you may not even need to spend $400. I wouldn't say that headphones are "slightly better" than in-ears since it is really personal preference and there are so many different in-ear headphones, some of which are among the best sound available. Since all ears are different, obtaining a good seal with in-ears can be a challenge and even if they are not falling out, they can sound tinny and lifeless if there is not a good seal. If you want to try out some in ears (high end audio stores have disposable tips so you can audition), I would recommend auditioning Shure, Westone, Monster and Ultimate Ears. In the under $200 category, I am partial to the B&W C5 ($180) which only has a single driver and is bassy, but I really like the sound.
Regarding headphones, you can't go wrong with a classic standby- the ATH-M50. Another headphone I like with detailed, accurate sound, but somewhat lacking in bass is the Sennheiser HD380, but it is not as compact. In the on-ear category, the V-Moda M-80 has a very pleasing sound to my ears. Each of these is under $200. Above $200, some of the Beyerdynamics are considered good for gaming as they have an excellent soundstage. They also make an on-ear, the DT-1350 that I have not heard, but has solid reviews.
For me personally, I am waiting for the V-Moda M-100 that comes out in a month ($299). It is a full size over-ear, but folds nicely and comes with a compact, form-fitting case. Even though there is a +8dB bass boost (which is a selling point for me), overall sound quality could be exceptional. They are also semi-open so they will be good for portable use and may have some sound leakage, but the venting along with 50mm drivers should provide a good soundstage for gaming. I would encourage you to check out the V-Moda M-100 discussion forum as I think it may meet all of your requirements. I think the PSB M4U2 we discussed would work as well, but it does have more of an executive look. The M-100 definitely wins with the coolness factor.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/592389/v-moda-m-100-discussion-feedback-reviews-pics-etc/2625
Here is a link to a buying guide that should be helpful:
http://www.head-fi.org/a/buying-guide-headphones-by-price-range
Whatever you do, learn from my mistakes and don't buy a headphone without auditioning first unless there is a firm return policy. Best of luck and I hope this helps.