Solved Require advice on audiophile/music headphones

[MadSupra354]

I'm planning on having 2 pairs of headphones. A set for gaming, a set for listening to music and everything else. I'm planning to attempt producing music in the future. I am currently choosing between an Audio-Technica ATH-M50 and ATH-AD700. Or maybe even an ATH-AD900, if that's worth the extra £100. What do you think?

 

[seekermeister]

I never had that brand, so I can't compare, but I doubt that they would be any better than Sennheiser.

 

[MadSupra354]

Their ATH-AD700 are popular. I'm open to other suggestions.

 

[seekermeister]

I don't see that model on this chart, but unless it is a lot better than the one there, it appears that Sennheiser is the top dog.

http://noise-cancelling-headphones-review.toptenreviews.com/

 

[MadSupra354]

Audio-Technica have a list of active noise-cancelling headphones. The ones I'm looking at, are Hi-Fi and Monitor. The ATH-M50 are monitors.

 

[seekermeister]

The biggest problem with that model for my taste is that it is corded. I hate feeling as though I'm on a leash.

 

[Wishmaster]

Whats your budget? And, do you have a setup with a good headphone amp or not? This will help a lot.

I had a similar question a while back, and got some very good advice that helped me find what I was looking for.

Personally, I found like the Sennheisers the best of all of them. Many think they sound plain,flat or vieled, but they are a flat heeadphone which is a good thing IMO. Some headphones will color the sound to some degree, these do not. Thats the EQ , soundcard, amps job.

These are great for music, games and movies.

The Sennheiser 418/19s and 518/19s are very good sets, depending on budget and wether you want a closed or open set. Open sound the best IMO, but .. best used in a quiet enviroment, and tend leak sound much more than closed designs.

These are not Bass Monsters though. I mean, they do have a deep, percussive bass to them .. and it is accurate and sound good. But its not that overpowering "boom" some prefer. If you are that type of listener they are not for you.


So, from my personal taste, Id say check into Sennheiser before making a final decision. If anywhere close to you has some on display, give them a good listen.

But, advice on headphone IMO is hard to give. We each have a different prefrence on what sounds good. My 2cents for what its worth.


Not sure what to suggest on a noise cancelling/production type set.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

MadSupra354, Neutrality is what you seek, clean, clear transients with a broad musical balance, accurate sound staging and correct musician placement in the room. Please except no substitute for quality and this would be a solid starting point!
K 702

 

[MadSupra354]

The biggest problem with that model for my taste is that it is corded. I hate feeling as though I'm on a leash.

Haha. Almost everything I own is on a leash.

Whats your budget? And, do you have a setup with a good headphone amp or not? This will help a lot.

I just want to clarify, I'm not an enthusiast. I'm planning just to have these headphones powered by my sound card, no attachments. Budget is ~£120. I said I'd buy the AD900s if they were worth it.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

I would shop around and if needed continue to save as there is no substitute for quality otherwise you'll wind up with Beats Audio or something boom boom sizzle sizzle..........
Fatigue is the enemy here (hear) and my 702's are absolutely fatigue free both worn and listened unless the source material is crap which is like 60% of the time but it won't ever be the headphones issue.....never !

 

[linnemeyerhere]

What ever you do........don't and I repeat don't get noise cancelling headphones for critical listening. You fly for business or take the bus to work then yes, but for a fledgling sound engineer/music producer.......not so much!

 

[MadSupra354]

I watched a video review of the AD700, and apparently they're more music and gaming heaphones, didn't provide much bass at all. Looks like it's either the M50s or something from Sennheiser.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

Well within the budget and musical and accurate.
Grado Labs | SR60i

 

[MadSupra354]

I forgot about Grado. What about the SR80i. Do you think that's OK or am I going too far and won't notice the difference?

 

[linnemeyerhere]

Likely won't notice the difference. The 60's are heralded as a true audio value. Of course they aren't in the league of the woodies.
Grado Labs | GS1000i
Really either would as well be a solid choice....the 60 or 80.

 

[MadSupra354]

I just read a review on their site. "I can't tell the difference between the SR60i and the SR325i without an AMP." I guess there's my answer. Unless anyone wants me to see something by Sennheiser.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

I think it's time to grab that great cd that you know like the back of your hand and listen to it till your sick of it. Then take it to the dealers with these fine products and have a go. Otherwise save the coin and get the Grado's and then save for the AKG after your first or second client buys you services and then break the 701's or 702's in for at least 100-150 hours with low level background music !
Cheers, Alan