[commando]

I've recently had to stop using a stereo to play music in my office, so i've switched back to headphones. The stereo's a Panasonic, it cost US$300 and is great. Not audiophile level, but it has a very fun sound, with deep strong bass and good detail.

I'm back to using my A900s, and I'm finding a little to be desired. The main thing is the bass could be lower, and the bass could have a bit more impact. Detail could also be better.

What would you all think I should "upgrade" to? I'm in a room that's reasonably quiet, I have a PC with 4 fans, but it's not too loud. There's no other noise, so i'm definitely interested in open headphones - plus i've never owned any and i'd like to experience some. I like deep, strong bass, detailed highs but not too harsh - the HD280s are a bit harsh until you EQ the bass down. Basically i'd like an A900 with lower, strong bass and better detail. Comfort is important. Budget US$400. My first thoughts are for the HD595, or perhaps some open Beyers.

Source: Chaintech AV710 (I think that's what it is). It sounded the same as the fancy one I had before
Amp: I run direct from the sound card with the A900, but I have a PPA in the cupboard.
Favorite headphones: CD3000, A900, Sony EX71
Music: vocal trance 70%, musicals 10%, pop/rock 20%, misc 10%
Other notes: I have mild tinnitus so I listen to music at low volumes

Opinions welcome

 

[johnanderson]

Sounds like you should get an AD900 if you like the A900 sound but want lower bass.

 

[Headphony]

Good first thoughts. It sounds like you want a Beyerdynamic DT990 v2005.

 

[coredump]

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnanderson /img/forum/go_quote.gif Sounds like you should get an AD900 if you like the A900 sound but want lower bass.

They have less bass but they also sound completely different. More detail less impact.

 

[commando]

The AD900 doesn't rate well at all on my website for bass extension, neither does the HD595 really. The Beyer 990 rates really well though, for bass and overall. Has anyone heard the 990 and the 595?

 

[jgonino]

I know the 990 is said to have some really sibilant highs. Maybe you could get some Senn HD650's? I think they might be a good match for you.

 

[commando]

The Beyer 990 reviews quite a bit better than the HD650s, but there are more reviews to the 650s, and only two for the Beyers. Might have to bite the bullet and get one of them, they're fairly pricey.

 

[jgonino]

Warrior05 has the 600 ohm dt990's, he might be able to comment on the highs.

I personally love my ultrasone 2500's. However without a lot of burn-in time, the highs are a little grating. You can remedy this with a tad bit of EQ, or by playing a pink noise through them a lot.