[attnet]

Would it be worth the upgrade (as in significantly better sound) to upgrade my current pair of HD-495 to something like the HD-280 or HD-580? I don't have too much money to play with, so I want to make every dollar count. Which would be a better deal, a HD-580 for ~$130 or a HD-280 for ~$80 both shipped? For reference, these will be used mostly out of my computer through a JMT CHA47, for a bit of mixing work, a lot of soundtrack/orchestral listening, and a fair bit of rock/pop/whatnot.

 

[FCJ]

I would go with the 580's, unless I had to have a closed phone. I use the 600s on occasion with the CHA 47 and they are powerful enough to drive the 600s. Since the 580s will get you approximately 85-90% of the 600s, I'd say the choice is easy (of course, using a soundcard I don't think you'll get the full benefits of the 580s, but it's still a great choice for only $130).

 

[attnet]

Oh yes, and as I am working next to my computer mostly, I want something that preferably provides a bit of isolation so that's why I'm considering the HD-280 (not to mention the reports of good sound). My computer is comparatively quiet, as I have worked to keep it that way, so open headhpones aren't really a problem, it's just that a little isolation would be good. But would the HD-280 be a sonically significant upgrade from the HD-495 I currently have? Or is there some other model you suggest? I think I'll have to drop the HD-580 for now, because I really can't go over $100 at the moment. Keep em suggestions coming! (42 views, 1 reply - gimme a break!)

 

[FCJ]

Sony V6? Or do you like the Sennheiser sound (I'm not familar with your headphones, btw).

 

[Hamsterball_Z]

I have never heard the 495 myself but I hear it has a fairly dark sound. I believe the 497 is considered a worthwhile upgrade from the 495s and I would consider the 280 a good improvement over the 497 (I have both). If that's the case then the 280 should be quite an improvement over the 495.

I think the 280s would be perfect for what you want to use them for and you've got an amp so there's no question you'll be able to power them. Anything better in a closed phone would probably cost you twice as much.

(HBZ)