Hello Everyone, you've got a Newbie here, I apologize in advance for my naïveté.
I've been an (loudspeaker) audiophile since the 1970's (Audio Research, Bozak, etc), and now I want to get into headphones. Unfortunately I've never even had a chance to sit down and listen to well balanced, properly amped/DAC'd headphones (I hang my head in shame), and I can't even find a store with a decent selection! Where do I start?! What am I missing by not having had the opportunity to hear great cans? I want to experience the bliss you all enjoy everyday!
I have a budget of up to $4000, so I can get something quite nice. My problem is, how do you know what I like, what amp goes with what headphones, etc? Seems everyone likes the Senn HD800, so I thought I'd start there. I like all kinds of music (except pop) but I really enjoy louder music with a punch. Female vocals are important. To name a few: Alabama Shakes, Emma Shapplin, Pink Floyd, Dead Can Dance, Chromeo, DJ Krush, Tom Waits, Chemical Brothers, Jonny Lang, Sinatra, etc.
With this style of music, am I safe with the HD800, or do I need something with more punch? If the 800's are ok, can I get some suggestions on building around them? Does it make sense to pick the headphones first, then choose the DAC/amp? How do you know if you like the headphones if you can't hear them with different amps? Seems like the chicken or the egg dilemma!
Sorry for being so elementary, but I want to enjoy music as much as you do, and I have to start somewhere! Thanks to all in advance for any guidance you can offer!