\
  The most prestigious law school admissions discussion board in the world.
BackRefresh Options Favorite

ISO: headphone recs for ~$300?

Budget is flexible but will use a lot off iPhone so I'm gues...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/24/15
You're going to need to provide a lot more details on what y...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/24/15
I have a decent 5.1 setup but have never had decent headphon...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/25/15
Do you care about portability at all?
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/25/15
HD580/600
poppy plaza
  04/25/15
Just do fucking Sennheiser earbuds. $30 on Amazon, u're welc...
Laughsome yarmulke
  04/25/15
sony mdr v6 set plus $230 worth of high-grade cannabis
trip area
  04/25/15
...
Bateful peach locus dragon
  04/26/15
Senn HD600 or HD650 depending on your taste
Aqua know-it-all garrison
  04/25/15
He needs something closed to block out the sound.
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/25/15
Why is he using them in an open office or something? I use H...
poppy plaza
  04/25/15
From above: "Have a kid now so need headphones." ...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/25/15
I assume he wants headphones to avoid waking the kid. Open h...
Boyish cerise principal's office
  04/25/15
Yeah the noise leakage isn't too bad unless you're rocking o...
poppy plaza
  04/25/15
I don't know his circumstances, but if he wants to spend a f...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/25/15
porta pros are a classic sound-wise for the price but the pa...
Crusty Heaven
  04/25/15
Right, but we're talking about a scenario where he wants som...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/25/15
Sony MDR-V600 had these for >10 years, still 180
glittery brindle puppy
  04/25/15
yeah the Sony MDRs are the best , just got some new ones. th...
gaped mentally impaired address
  04/25/15
just realised they are out of stock and selling on line for ...
glittery brindle puppy
  04/25/15
there are other models in the MDR series that sound just as ...
gaped mentally impaired address
  04/26/15
...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/25/15
Alright, because I'm in a good mood I looked at Amazon.com f...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/25/15
Thanks, very hekpful. Any advice on headphone amp/DAC is ap...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/26/15
http://autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&mc=53&...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/26/15
BEATS BY DRE YNY
Provocative low-t school cafeteria
  04/25/15
http://smile.amazon.com/PSB-Performance-Over-Ear-Headphones-...
Crusty Heaven
  04/25/15
titcr I have these and can confirm if you are going to be li...
House-broken fortuitous meteor
  04/30/15
bose qc20 is 180 for in-ear. no bose fanboi, but they're 18
Vibrant up-to-no-good sanctuary
  04/25/15
Whatever the $300 grado is is the only choice.
Pearl nibblets stead
  04/25/15
http://www.4ourears.net/SR325_p/4e-sr325e.htm I will say...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/25/15
What musical tastes would they not be good for?
Pearl nibblets stead
  04/26/15
They're quintessential rock headphones. If you like Rap, el...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/26/15
What's good for classical?
Pearl nibblets stead
  04/26/15
HD600/HD650, AKG 701, Beyerdynamic DT880 all come to mind in...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/26/15
I hate Grados. The pads are rough, headband is uncomfortable...
poppy plaza
  04/25/15
Nah man they're lighter than they used to be so they don't s...
Pearl nibblets stead
  04/26/15
bowers & wilkins p5
wine property
  04/25/15
Thanks for all the input. I thought I wanted closed but fro...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/25/15
As soon as you put them on, your wife will want to talk to y...
Provocative low-t school cafeteria
  04/25/15
Nah, she goes to bed early and naps when baby naps on weeken...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/26/15
sony mdr-v6's are just awesome for the money
Saffron Alcoholic Tanning Salon New Version
  04/25/15
Does it make sense to get a ~$100-$200 DAC/amp if im listeni...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/26/15
I think so. It helps a lot. Grab this one for $75, which...
Pearl nibblets stead
  04/26/15
I had an earlier version of that. It isn't bad, but there's...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/26/15
Thanks
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/27/15
i have the bose qc25 and love them. best headphones ever
Histrionic Light Genital Piercing
  04/26/15
Are bose headphones legit or are they marketing bs like thei...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/26/15
bose is killing it with the qc series - great sound quality ...
Histrionic Light Genital Piercing
  04/26/15
...
Vibrant up-to-no-good sanctuary
  04/26/15
Sennheiser IE80's HTH.
Orchid marvelous senate
  04/26/15
Happy to recommend a pair of headphones to you. I'll even on...
irradiated violent market
  04/26/15
TMF - you are killing this thread. Thanks very much. $300 ...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/26/15
Closed has better bass.
Cocky house
  04/26/15
I kind of hate saying that because some open headphones are ...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/26/15
Laptop and iPhone are different ballgames. For laptop I gen...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/26/15
I want an IEM that doesnt push bass like the IE80. Basically...
Orchid marvelous senate
  04/26/15
I'm probably the wrong person to ask since I'm a basshead. ...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/26/15
Besides going to high end audio stores to listen, does Best ...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/27/15
Honestly, no, Best Buy isn't going to cut it. They mostly s...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/27/15
So is high end audio store the only place worth going to? A...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/27/15
They can be, yes. Just a question of what selection they ha...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/27/15
Beats by Dre are $12 Chinese garbage sold for $300.
startled amethyst menage famous landscape painting
  04/27/15
Bose QC IEMs for flights. Sennheiser open cans with DAC/amp...
Soul-stirring stag film
  04/27/15
BOSE /thread
Vengeful zippy coffee pot really tough guy
  04/27/15
The good news is that the DAC in the iPhone is good. http...
Cocky house
  04/27/15
Thanks. Budget is flexible and I may ultimately go used so ...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/27/15
Spotify at 320k is good (make sure to choose highest quality...
Soul-stirring stag film
  04/27/15
There are ways to set things up so that you stream FLAC to y...
Cocky house
  04/27/15
Koss KSC 75s with a parts express headband. Optional but ...
grizzly theatre
  04/27/15
Going to try to stop by guitar center at lunch today. Hi fi...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/28/15
Stopped by GC. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro was the only thi...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/28/15
some of those beyerdynamics are like 250 ohms and a straight...
Multi-colored hyperactive spot hominid
  04/28/15
I used to have the DT770/80 version. They were great headpho...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/29/15
http://www.dansdeals.com/archives/64325
Talking box office
  04/28/15
I have an old pair of Senn HD 595's and they are still fanta...
Alcoholic messiness
  04/28/15
Same and would make the same recommendation
Supple Abode
  05/07/15
Made a relatively brief stop at a hifi store. I think I had...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/28/15
Thoughts on NAD VISO HP 50? They look like something that wo...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/29/15
Thoughts on these? Built in amp http://mofiheadphones.co...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/29/15
Can a ~$100-150 amp drive the Sennheiser HD 650 for use from...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/29/15
...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/29/15
...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/29/15
Should be able to find that, but don't have a specific rec.
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/30/15
Thoughts on this setup for use around the house/deck (not po...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/29/15
...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/29/15
...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/30/15
A bunch of radically different paths there.
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  04/30/15
Obviously, leaning towards path A, but pros and cons to each
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/30/15
...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/29/15
...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/30/15
...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  04/30/15
been swamped at work but hope to get out and listen to some ...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  05/05/15
Sennheiser HD 650 for $300 new? Audio Technica ATH W1000X u...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  05/07/15
Just ordered the Sennheiser HD 650
learning disabled talented trailer park
  05/08/15
Not a bad choice at all and a great all arounder, but you sh...
Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky
  05/08/15
No, I got them off Amazon Prime for 300 even with free shipp...
learning disabled talented trailer park
  05/12/15


Poast new message in this thread



Reply Favorite

Date: April 24th, 2015 11:42 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Budget is flexible but will use a lot off iPhone so I'm guessing there will be dimishing returns. Correct me if I'm wrong. May buy used.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755027)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 24th, 2015 11:56 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

You're going to need to provide a lot more details on what you're looking for (type of headphone, music you listen to, what you already have and liked or hated). You're also better off checking out head-fi.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755176)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 12:10 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

I have a decent 5.1 setup but have never had decent headphones. Have a kid now so need headphones.

I like a wide variety of music ranging from Willie Nelson to Wilco to Phish to Grateful Dead. Don't listen to rap.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755273)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 1:27 AM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

Do you care about portability at all?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755716)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 12:52 AM
Author: poppy plaza

HD580/600

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755547)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 1:05 AM
Author: Laughsome yarmulke

Just do fucking Sennheiser earbuds. $30 on Amazon, u're welcome.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755632)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 1:11 AM
Author: trip area

sony mdr v6 set plus $230 worth of high-grade cannabis

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755661)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:48 AM
Author: Bateful peach locus dragon



(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27762692)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 1:15 AM
Author: Aqua know-it-all garrison

Senn HD600 or HD650 depending on your taste

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755684)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 1:20 AM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

He needs something closed to block out the sound.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755694)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 3:19 PM
Author: poppy plaza

Why is he using them in an open office or something? I use HD580s in my home office all the time.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27758237)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:28 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

From above: "Have a kid now so need headphones."

He'll hear their TV, screaming, etc. Getting audiophile headphones that are open in a noisy environment is pointless.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759660)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:32 PM
Author: Boyish cerise principal's office

I assume he wants headphones to avoid waking the kid. Open headphones are fine for that.

Not being able to hear the kid is, if anything, more of a negative.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759668)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:47 PM
Author: poppy plaza

Yeah the noise leakage isn't too bad unless you're rocking out. Not great in a work environment if you have people around but fine otherwise.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759733)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:50 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

I don't know his circumstances, but if he wants to spend a few hours in peace and let his wife handle the kids then he wants closed headphones. If he wants to hear everything then yeah, I guess he wants open or semi-open, but again, with other people in the house making noise getting audiophile headphones is kind of silly.

Frankly, a set of these should be wholly sufficient: http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-598-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B0042A8CW2

Even these will likely be fine: http://www.amazon.com/Koss-PortaPro-Headphones-with-Case/dp/B00001P4ZH or http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-100-II-Ear-Miniheadphone-Black/dp/B002VPDOH8

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759745)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:59 PM
Author: Crusty Heaven

porta pros are a classic sound-wise for the price but the pads are garbage and it's also a semi-open design anyway.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759777)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 8:00 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

Right, but we're talking about a scenario where he wants something open or semi-open. Which, I wouldn't do if I were in his shoes.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759784)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 1:28 AM
Author: glittery brindle puppy

Sony MDR-V600

had these for >10 years, still 180

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27755719)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 3:26 PM
Author: gaped mentally impaired address

yeah the Sony MDRs are the best , just got some new ones. the ear pads wear out after a few years

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27758279)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 9:11 PM
Author: glittery brindle puppy

just realised they are out of stock and selling on line for like $500 - holy shit

better take care of mine

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27760101)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 11:36 AM
Author: gaped mentally impaired address

there are other models in the MDR series that sound just as good for $100 or less

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27763108)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 3:18 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

...

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27758230)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:44 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

Alright, because I'm in a good mood I looked at Amazon.com for you.

http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-Momentum-On-Ear-Headphone-Black/dp/B00DKPXU9A - Great deal. They're on ear though rather than over the ear.

http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-Momentum-Black-Headphone/dp/B00AZZNXOK - the over the ear versions. More expensive, but will be more comfortable. There's a new version so you can pick up the old version for cheap.

http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATHESW9A-Portable-Wooden-Headphones/dp/B0030O0Q2U - wood is awesome for headphones. Looks great and yes, has a real impact on sound quality. If money weren't an issue I would suggest the JVC DX1000 as too, but it is completely outside your price range.

http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-IE80-Headphone/dp/B005N8W27I - these are awesome, I have a set of these. If you want portability you can't go wrong with this option.

I note that all of these can be driven by your iphone. If you want to discuss computer DACs, let me know.



(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759716)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 9:02 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Thanks, very hekpful. Any advice on headphone amp/DAC is appreciated, including how much to spend on DAC vs. headphones.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27762709)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:03 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

http://autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&mc=53&forum_id=2#27765002 - that list represents a sweet spot, imo.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27766388)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:51 PM
Author: Provocative low-t school cafeteria

BEATS BY DRE YNY

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759749)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:52 PM
Author: Crusty Heaven

http://smile.amazon.com/PSB-Performance-Over-Ear-Headphones-Black/dp/B00AFUE7S6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1430005925&sr=8-1&keywords=PSB+M4U+1

if you want closed cans and are willing to drop $300 this is TMFCR. YWIA.

for an open design I still love grados, but they really need an amp to shine.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759752)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 30th, 2015 12:34 AM
Author: House-broken fortuitous meteor

titcr I have these and can confirm if you are going to be listening out of a macbook/iphone and not an amp these are the best sounding cans for the money imo

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27790631)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 7:55 PM
Author: Vibrant up-to-no-good sanctuary

bose qc20 is 180 for in-ear. no bose fanboi, but they're 18

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759761)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 8:11 PM
Author: Pearl nibblets stead

Whatever the $300 grado is is the only choice.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759851)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 8:13 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

http://www.4ourears.net/SR325_p/4e-sr325e.htm

I will say that for his musical tastes they would be superb.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759856)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:50 AM
Author: Pearl nibblets stead

What musical tastes would they not be good for?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27762697)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 12:00 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

They're quintessential rock headphones. If you like Rap, electronic, trance, or primarily classical then there are better headphones out there. Their signature is how airy guitars sound on them.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27763229)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 1:26 PM
Author: Pearl nibblets stead

What's good for classical?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27763750)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 4:14 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

HD600/HD650, AKG 701, Beyerdynamic DT880 all come to mind in that price range. Of course, I'm looking at full sized cans, not considering IEMs. One thing to consider here is that none of those listed can be efficiently powered by an iphone with no amp.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27764810)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 9:13 PM
Author: poppy plaza

I hate Grados. The pads are rough, headband is uncomfortable as fuck, and they have such a bright grating sound. They look cool for hipsters though.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27760118)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:43 AM
Author: Pearl nibblets stead

Nah man they're lighter than they used to be so they don't sit on the crown of you're head as much and have more padding on top (see picture from poast above you'rs) and are more comfortable (I know what you mean about the old ones though). Oh and the sound is perfect, hth.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27762686)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 8:12 PM
Author: wine property

bowers & wilkins p5

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27759854)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 10:32 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Thanks for all the input. I thought I wanted closed but from the responses maybe open is better. Is open generally considered a better, more accurate sound? I'm primarily going to use them to them when kid is asleep so house will be quiet and I'm not trying to block out sound, I just want to listen to music loud and not wake kid/wife up. Is sound leakage from open headphones minimal enough that it won't be heard a couple rooms over if the door is shut?

I'll be using iphone or laptop some to listen on back deck, not for travel. Will buying a separate headphone amp/DAC make a big difference?

Is buying used on audigon or ebay a good idea or is new the way to go?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27760735)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 10:34 PM
Author: Provocative low-t school cafeteria

As soon as you put them on, your wife will want to talk to you about some inane shit, you'll have to keep putting them on and taking them off, it never works out how you think, it's a nightmare.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27760742)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 12:04 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Nah, she goes to bed early and naps when baby naps on weekends

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27761350)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 25th, 2015 10:35 PM
Author: Saffron Alcoholic Tanning Salon New Version

sony mdr-v6's are just awesome for the money

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27760753)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 12:12 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Does it make sense to get a ~$100-$200 DAC/amp if im listening off laptop or iphone?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27761408)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:36 AM
Author: Pearl nibblets stead

I think so. It helps a lot.

Grab this one for $75, which is as good as many twice the price:

http://www.amazon.com/FiiO-E10K-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B00LP3AMC2/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1430051691&sr=8-6&keywords=headphone+amp+fiio

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27762680)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 4:39 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

I had an earlier version of that. It isn't bad, but there's obviously better out there if you're willing to spend a bit more.

http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Digital-Converter-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B00GCDVNHI

http://www.amazon.com/HIGH-RESOLUTION-TECHNOLOGIES-355-HRT/dp/B0067Z6BNC

http://www.amazon.com/AUDIOQUEST-DRAGONFLY-V1-2-USB-DAC/dp/B00H00VLZQ

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FG9MJTA

All pop into mind. Which one depends on the direction you want to go with your setup. Something like an HD600 will require something with more power than some of the other headphones I linked to.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27765002)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 11:39 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Thanks

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27769647)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 12:19 AM
Author: Histrionic Light Genital Piercing

i have the bose qc25 and love them. best headphones ever

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27761458)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:30 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Are bose headphones legit or are they marketing bs like their stereo products?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27762672)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 11:49 AM
Author: Histrionic Light Genital Piercing

bose is killing it with the qc series - great sound quality and unrivaled noise cancellation. I wore them on a 13-hour flight without removing them once and they completely blocked everything out.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27763174)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 4:42 PM
Author: Vibrant up-to-no-good sanctuary



(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27765020)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:56 AM
Author: Orchid marvelous senate

Sennheiser IE80's HTH.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27762700)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 9:26 AM
Author: irradiated violent market

Happy to recommend a pair of headphones to you. I'll even only charge you $250. (DBG)

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27762741)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 6:49 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

TMF - you are killing this thread. Thanks very much. $300 budget is not set in stone and I could find a good deal or something used.

With iPhone/laptop, do I gain a lot by getting a <$200 dac/amp? Is open ear generally a better sound for rock/live music if you're not worried about bothering people or blocking out noise? Or does closed ear have its own benefits besides blocking out noise?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27765911)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 7:19 PM
Author: Cocky house

Closed has better bass.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27766098)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:02 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

I kind of hate saying that because some open headphones are known for good bass, while some closed are fairly bass-shy. But that tends to be what the generalization is.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27766385)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:01 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

Laptop and iPhone are different ballgames. For laptop I generally recommend getting a dac/amp (I provided a list above) - around $150 or so seems to be the sweet spot. iPhone is all about portability, so I think a DAC is silly. Plus, built in sound is actually quite decent.

Closed vs open: open tends to have a more airy sound (comes with more soundstage generally), closed tends to have a thicker sound. Seriously, I would suggest trying to find a place around you to demo some - listening for yourself is probably worth more than my explanation.

My 2c: if I were you I would get closed unless you plan on listening from a closed off, noise isolated room.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27766378)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 8:06 PM
Author: Orchid marvelous senate

I want an IEM that doesnt push bass like the IE80. Basically I want an IEM thats like a reference unit. Most sets push bass. Is there a good reference IEM?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27766404)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 26th, 2015 10:23 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

I'm probably the wrong person to ask since I'm a basshead. I absolutely love my IE80s. However, armature based headphones are going to almost always produce far less bass. Check out whatever is in your price range from Shure, Westone or Etymotics.



(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27767412)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 11:37 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Besides going to high end audio stores to listen, does Best Buy have a decent selection of models in-store to listen to?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27769639)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 11:57 AM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

Honestly, no, Best Buy isn't going to cut it. They mostly sell overmarketed overpriced crap.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27769699)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 11:59 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

So is high end audio store the only place worth going to? Anything like guitar center or Sam ash worth checking out?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27769713)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 12:02 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

They can be, yes. Just a question of what selection they have out for you to sample. But most Best Buy type places will just shill for Beats or Bose or some other nonsense. So yeah, stick to either dedicated stores or professional music stores.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27769727)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 11:58 AM
Author: startled amethyst menage famous landscape painting

Beats by Dre are $12 Chinese garbage sold for $300.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27769704)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 1:30 PM
Author: Soul-stirring stag film

Bose QC IEMs for flights.

Sennheiser open cans with DAC/amp for sitting at desk.

Shure IEMs for walking around, gym, chores, etc.

I end up using my Shure 846's 99% the time.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27770049)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 1:35 PM
Author: Vengeful zippy coffee pot really tough guy

BOSE

/thread

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27770070)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 3:31 PM
Author: Cocky house

The good news is that the DAC in the iPhone is good.

http://www.kenrockwell.com/apple/iphone-5/audio-quality.htm

So if you're listening from your iPhone, all you really need is MAYBE an amp, depending on the headphones.

As TMF alluded to, laptop listening can be very different. Sometimes the built-in DAC and amp inside a laptop is good enough, especially if the headphones are easy to drive. I personally use the built-in headphone jack on my Thinkpad to drive my Grados. However, if the built-in audio is shit you may just have yourself a can of worms. Buying an external DAC frequently solves the problem, but it doesn't always solve the problem. In fact, sometimes the problem gets worse with an external DAC! See, a lot of the most affordable external DACs are USB-powered. And a lot of computers have fairly shitty electrical regulation on their USB ports, which leads to noise from USB-powered DACs. If that's the case with your machine, you then need to hook the DAC up to an externally-powered USB hub, or a specifically engineered product like the $99 Schiit Wyrd, or you need to get a DAC with its own power supply.

To make a long story short, you should plan on doing your most critical listening with your iPhone.

Your budget is in something of a weird spot. $300 is something of a local minima of sorts. The more you spend on headphones, the more likely it is that you'll see a benefit from an amp. But good amps start at about $100 or so, and there's not a lot of headphones under $200 that benefit all that much from an amp (unless you really like to listen loud). Further complicating things is that you don't seem to have a great idea of what you want.

You may want to consider AKGs. AKG makes a lot of semi-open headphones. The idea with those is that they are open enough that you get the airy spaciousness of open headphones, but they are also closed off a bit which will help lend more impact to the bass. AKG Q 701 for $250 along with a Fiio E11k portable amp for $60 should be a choice that won't make you feel like you might have screwed up.

Alternatively you could buy 2-3 pair in the $75 - $150 range rather than splurge on a single pair in the $300 range. That might be a satisfying enough endgame for you. If you did that and turned out to be unsatisfied in some regard, you would at least have a better idea of what kind of sound you are looking for.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27770849)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 4:24 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Thanks. Budget is flexible and I may ultimately go used so I definitely don't want to get a headphone dac/amp combo that doesn't make sense.

Primarily listening off iPhone is a possibility, it's certainly more convenient. What's the sound quality of Spotify (pay version) like on ~$300 headphones? Benefit of laptop is I can access tons of hq FLAC but if the other factors that you mentioned hurt sound quality it wouldn't make sense to use laptop at all.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27771141)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 4:38 PM
Author: Soul-stirring stag film

Spotify at 320k is good (make sure to choose highest quality in settings). Tidal has lossless for $20/mo.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27771226)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 5:43 PM
Author: Cocky house

There are ways to set things up so that you stream FLAC to your phone. You run a server like Subsonic, Logitech Media Server, MPD, etc. on your computer. Each of these servers has playback apps for iPhone.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27771666)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 27th, 2015 6:01 PM
Author: grizzly theatre

Koss KSC 75s with a parts express headband.

Optional but nice: any random portable amp.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27771764)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 28th, 2015 11:20 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Going to try to stop by guitar center at lunch today. Hi fi place is too far away for lunch but may go after work

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27777314)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 28th, 2015 4:52 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Stopped by GC. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro was the only thing they had available to listen to that I was interested in Liked them but iPhone didn't drive it nearly enough. Read up this afternoon and realized it was either the wrong ohm model or cord for iPhone use, guy at GC was useless. I'm going to stop by a hi fi store an hope for some more choices or just buy something online that's been recommended in this thread and has great reviews on headfi

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27779955)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 28th, 2015 5:32 PM
Author: Multi-colored hyperactive spot hominid

some of those beyerdynamics are like 250 ohms and a straight iphone won't drive them enough. something with lower impedance will work though. i have some audiotechnica M50s that are 32 ohms and they work fine with my iphone. if you're listening on a computer it's probably going to sound better to get a digital dac/amp and then you won't have to worry about impedance

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27780207)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 11:52 AM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

I used to have the DT770/80 version. They were great headphones but not really suitable to an iPhone. They require a real amp. In addition, they come in 32, 250 and 600 ohm versions, each sounding quite different.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27785116)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 28th, 2015 5:07 PM
Author: Talking box office

http://www.dansdeals.com/archives/64325

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27780052)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 28th, 2015 5:17 PM
Author: Alcoholic messiness

I have an old pair of Senn HD 595's and they are still fantastic. Extremely comfortable and amazing sound. I think if you grab the newer model you will be pleasantly surprised.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27780126)



Reply Favorite

Date: May 7th, 2015 10:04 PM
Author: Supple Abode

Same and would make the same recommendation

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27845074)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 28th, 2015 10:35 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Made a relatively brief stop at a hifi store. I think I had some trouble with the connection to my iPhone through the case which the guy warned me about as I was getting slight buzzing in silent parts of tracks w/ certain models. Is this just a connection issue or something I should consider more?

Did not have this issue with the b&W P5 and P7, which were crystal clear and I liked a lot, but think it may have been because it was completely clear rather than best sound. I also liked the Grado 325 but seemed maybe a little bright for my taste.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27782403)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 9:56 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Thoughts on NAD VISO HP 50? They look like something that would fit my needs but can't demo them anywhere nearby

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27784373)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 10:39 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Thoughts on these? Built in amp

http://mofiheadphones.com/mobile/

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27784608)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 2:00 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Can a ~$100-150 amp drive the Sennheiser HD 650 for use from iPhone, or so you really need something like a $600 amp?

I realize this isn't a portable headphone, but would like to listen on the back deck, probably from iPhone

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27786137)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 2:35 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

...

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27786414)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 3:56 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

...

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27786890)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 30th, 2015 3:24 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

Should be able to find that, but don't have a specific rec.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27794207)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 5:29 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Thoughts on this setup for use around the house/deck (not portable, but not completely stationary)

Headphones: Sennheiser 600 for $250 new

Amp: FiiO 12 portable amp for $100 used

iPhone 5S w/ Spotify Premium, some FLAC, maybe Tidal

I realize the amp is entry level for these headphones, but has good reviews and gives me room to get a great amp if I get into headphones.

Another thing I'm considering is getting a cheaper over ear headphone that's iPhone friendly and a good/very good IEM to see what I like more over time, such as:

AKG K553 (on sale for $120) + very good Shure or Sennheiser IEM ($200+)

Sennheiser Momentum (old model new for $180) OR NAD VISO HP 50 (refurb w/ warranty for $190) + Shure 215 new for $100

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27787458)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 8:04 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

...

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27788445)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 30th, 2015 10:17 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

...

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27792132)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 30th, 2015 3:25 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

A bunch of radically different paths there.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27794213)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 30th, 2015 3:44 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Obviously, leaning towards path A, but pros and cons to each

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27794348)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 29th, 2015 8:40 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

...

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27788707)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 30th, 2015 12:31 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

...

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27790601)



Reply Favorite

Date: April 30th, 2015 3:14 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

...

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27794117)



Reply Favorite

Date: May 5th, 2015 12:10 AM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

been swamped at work but hope to get out and listen to some stuff soon

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27824420)



Reply Favorite

Date: May 7th, 2015 5:20 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Sennheiser HD 650 for $300 new? Audio Technica ATH W1000X used for $375?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27843037)



Reply Favorite

Date: May 8th, 2015 12:23 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

Just ordered the Sennheiser HD 650

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27848781)



Reply Favorite

Date: May 8th, 2015 12:39 PM
Author: Appetizing greedy factory reset button becky

Not a bad choice at all and a great all arounder, but you should get an amp. Did you see the slickdeals on it?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27848862)



Reply Favorite

Date: May 12th, 2015 5:45 PM
Author: learning disabled talented trailer park

No, I got them off Amazon Prime for 300 even with free shipping, may have lost a few bucks but seemed like a good price and I like the ease of shipping and return with Amazon.

I need to settle into an amp. Trying a couple from friends:

FiiO E 12 Mont Blanc - definitely a big noticeable improvement relatively cheap, but probably won't buy it.

IFI iCAN Micro - cool device, more expensive than FiiO, but sounds much better. It's not a portable unit but might work for my purposes - can just plug it into whatever room I'm in or on the deck and it's fairly small. The HD 650s obviously have sound leak so not planning on leaving the house with them, just don't want to be tied to stereo room

This looks promising: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/hifi-skyn-iphone-case-made-for-music

Lots of excellent reviews w/ HD650s on their larger more expensive products for people that want a stationary setup, so hopefully they get this right, the description sounds like just what I need.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=2863179&forum_id=2#27876847)