(Part 3) Best products from r/HeadphoneAdvice

If you want, I can copy-paste the response I usually give to people asking about gaming headset. Hope it will help you.

Wall of text ahead. Please, read only if you are really interested...


What I usually recommend when someone ask for advice about gaming headsets is: Gaming headset are crap 99% of the time. They provide very poor sound quality, and any good headphone (literally, even 40$ ones) will sound far better than expensive 300$ headsets. The question is not if headphones are better than headset (the answer is “Hell, YEAH”). The question is, are they better for you?


What are you planning to use your headphones for? Just for gaming, or for gaming and music listening?


If the answer is “just for gaming”, then ask yourself if a Hifi headphone is what you need. Usually games don’t really need high quality headphones, since they provide low quality sound, and you will be more concentrated gaming than listening. In that scenario, everything will serve you, and gaming headsets have the advantage of the integrated microphone.


So, if you want something good for gaming, and just for gaming, with integrated microphone, then the only two headsets with good enough quality sound (aka don’t suck) are:


HyperX Cloud (70$)


Sennheiser G4me One (170$)


Both are good choices. Or go with any fancy RGB headset you find (Logitech, Razer, Corsair, Steelseries, etc), you will most probably don’t notice the difference while gaming.


BUT, if you plan to use them for music listening besides gaming, then keep reading.


About the microphone problem


Hifi headphones for gaming have the disadvantage of having to deal with the micro thing. None of them have microphone incorporated, and you must find a workaround to the problem. Options available are:


1- Use a desk microphone like this


2- Some headphones have detachable cable. If the connector is a 3.5mm jack, you can substitute the cable with this V-Moda micro. That way you can have a microphone attached and still use a single cable. Main problem is that you must use this cable, no matter what, and if you end buying an amplifier, you can no longer use this microphone, as amplifiers don’t have micro input. Also, not all headphones are compatible, as not all use 3.5mm jack connections (Audio-technica and Sennheiser headphones are NOT compatible with V-moda Boom micro, cause they use 2.5mm jack)


3- use a modmic like this one or if your budget is tight, something like this.


The first option requires desk space and it’s expensive. The second one is not compatible with every headphone, and forces you to use this cable. The third one are detachable micro, with an extra cable you’ll have to deal with. Any of them are a nuisance. Any solution is annoying. All of them are an extra expense that must be accounted. If micro is a must and you are not willing to bother with this solutions, please, go back to HyperX Cloud or G4me One.


Ok, so, you really want some damn good headphones, that also can be used for gaming! Keep reading, please (are you bored yet?).


You can choose Closed back headphones (the classic ones you have already used. Closed back models offer good isolation and do not leak sound. This is your choice when there are people around you, or you want isolation from noisy a environment.) or Open Back headphones (Open back models offer next to no isolation and will leak sound -and allow you to hear what happens around you-, but they are the best sounding models). Open headphones achieve the best sound, soundstage (feeling that sound is coming from around you) and imaging (ability to locate the source of one sound).


If you are here because you want to get a replacement for a gaming headset, I would recommend you Open back, but since they don’t isolate, you must choose. If isolation is required, get closed back, if that’s not a concern, go open.


Some closed back cans:


Audio-Technica ATH-M40x. 100$. Balanced headphones, very good feedback from lots of people. Typical entry level headphones to the rabbit hole.


Sennheiser HD 598Cs. 125$. Balanced, very very detailed, great instrumental separation. Comfortable as hell, very recommended.


Beyerdynamic DT770. 160$. V-shaped signature (lots of bass and lots of treble). Amazing soundstage (for a closed headphone). Great for explosions, movies, and rock. Treble can be harsh if you are sensible. Get the 32 ohm version, as the 80 (may) and 250 (do) need an amplifier to work properly.


Those are some examples of entry-mid level of closed cans. There are lots more, depending of your budget!


As for open cans:


Superlux HD668b. 40$. Those are THE CANS. The best quality for low budget you can get. Hands down. Great soundstage, Bass light. They are not too comfortable, but pads can be changed for a deluxe comfort (extra expense). You are not getting anything better at this price. For gaming in a budget, this are the headphones you were looking for.


Philips SHP9500. 80$. Mid-forward signature. Good soundstage, great comfort. Very detailed. Another amazing quality for the budget headphone. Due its popularity, they’re getting harder and harder to get.


Sennheiser HD 598 SR. 170$. Very similar to the HD 598Cs, but with open back. Wider soundstage, a little less bass. Very balanced headphones. Super-duper comfortable. Great for long gaming sessions.


Philips Fidelio X2. 250$. V-shaped signature. Those are in another league. Build quality is just.. OMG. Extreme soundstage and imaging. More comfortable than the HD 598. Bass is BOOOOOM!!!. A little pricey, and can be somewhat fatiguing to listen if you are treble sensible, due to high treble.


Well, that’s all. I have selected only headphones that don’t need an amplifier. Now is your turn to research, watch some Youtube videos, read some reviews, and give them a try.


All this headphones are GOOD. No trash here, and all them will make you open your eyes when listening your music if you are coming from standard headsets. You will notice sounds, instruments, that you never realized they were there, even if you had listened this song a thousand times before. Try them, and be amazed.


Welcome to the rabbit hole.

Hey Black_Halcyon

Normally I avoid the trap of telling someone to just spend more money, but you left the door wide open

• Your $100 budget is flexible
  
• You're considering buying an amp (easily another $100)
  
• You've used the "A" word ;-)
  
  The golden rule in audio is that you should spend the majority of your budget on the best possible transducer you can afford and worry about the rest later. With this in mind, my advice is to pool your money and splurge on the most affordable headphones to be universally recognised as "audiophile-grade", i.e. the Sennheiser HD 600 series.
  
  For example:
  
  
• HD 600 (from $300 on Amazon)
  
• HD 650 (from $320 on Amazon)
  
• HD 6XX ($200 from Massdrop).
  
  Going by your criteria any of the above might be a good fit.
  
  

1. The Godfather(s) of all modern open-backed headphones
   
2. New from $200, but 2003 introduction (HD 600) means that buying secondhand is an option
   
3. Works OK from PC (debatable) but scales very well with dedicated amp
   
4. Smooth and natural-sounding (i.e. less bassy than PortaPro)
   
5. Makes any good recording sound good, reasonably tolerant of poor quality tracks
   
6. Detachable cables
   
   Some notes
   
   

• HD 600 is the most neutral of the trio
  
• HD 650 and HD 6XX are more bass orientated. This is relatively speaking. Coming from a PortaPro: prepare to have your mind blown (after the initial acclimatization period) with audiophile goodness.
  
  Good luck with the decision!
  
  PS - If you are too fiscally responsive to be tempted into spending the big bucks, you could always consider the HD 58X ($150 from Massdrop). While it is more bass-heavy than the 600s, it is perhaps the biggest bargain in audiophile headphones today. And it gives its best without any need for an additional amp.
  
  ​

SHP9500 's are an excellent budget starter open-back. I'll pretty much leave it at that, though they may leave you itching for something just a bit more on the low end to satisfy that basshead side of you. You could take care of that yourself if you're comfortable using an equalizer.

Other options you could consider are the:

Fidelio X2HR which I think are a great all-rounder and an easy decision at that price.

or

Monolith M560. You'd want to add these pads because the stock pads on the M560 suck. But it's a planar magnetic driver which is great for detail texture and speed if you listen to alot of rock like AC/DC with crunchy guitars and fast drums and supporting bass riffs. It's also a very well-built headphone, very comfortable once you do that pad change, and another excellent value at the price.

All of these headphones I own myself and would be just fine running straight from your motherboard giving you plenty of time to research considerations for an upgraded amp and/or dac if you still want to pursue one. And since it sounds like you're already on track for a motherboard upgrade, there are some pretty decent implementations using quality dac's and independent front/rear op-amps to tide you over.

To answer your question about straight vs Angled. It's just personal preference. I like angled better because the weight gets dispersed around your whole ear instead of just pulling down. also makes them more secure.

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I will list some options that i would consider:

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Pixel Phone to Bluetooth Cable AptX to IEM Cable for 2Pin/MMCX for 38$

Pros: Easy way to use, cheap

Cons: Soundquality is not the best possible, The bluetooth cable need to be charged

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Pixel Phone to Bluetooth AptX DAC/AMP to IEM via AUX Cable Fiio Bluetooth DAC/AMP for 35$

Pros: Better Soundquality, some Functions like EQ, Volume Control

Cons: Cost/Soundquality ratio is not very good, needs to be charged, one more thing to carry around

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Pixel Phone to USB C Connector Cable with included DAC to IEM Very good Cable for 80$

Pros: Easy to use Plug & Play, Better Soundquality than Bluetooth

Cons: Cost/Soundquality ratio is OK with DAC, is wired to the phone

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Small Hi-Res DAP to IEM via AUX Cable Shanling M0 with Clip for 112$

Pros: Almost best possible Soundquality, Easy to use and will not drain the Battery of your Phone/ Will still work if the Phone is dead, Cost/Soundquality ratio is amazing, up to 512 GB Storage, weights almost nothing

Cons: One more thing to carry, is still wired, no spotify or other streaming services

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My advice is the Digital Audio Player for the best sound Quality, maybe a cheap adapter for the Pixel. Link to USB C to AUX Adapter

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I hope this helps in making your decision. feel free to ask me about anything that you might consider buying or any other stuff. :)

I would split your budget to get two headphones for dedicated use.

1. a. Gaming Headphone => Since you mainly listed FPS titles that require you to pin point footsteps and shots, I would recommend the Audio Technica ATH AD 700x (AD700x Amazon Link) for $92. These headphones are well respected and loved for FPS titles with the same requirements as yours. They don't need an amp and can be driven from your motherboard with ease.
   b. Gaming microphone => Get the ModMic 4.0 (ModMic 4.0 Amazon Link) for $50. These are great and can be driven using your motherboard. However I would suggest pairing them with something like this (USB Sound Card Amazon Link) for best results - add another $15 for this.
   
   
2. Music and movies headphone => Get something like the HD 599 (HD 599 Amazon Link) from Sennheiser if you want good balanced sound without breaking the bank. They are easy to drive using your mobo and if you get an amp down the line they will increase the volume of these headphones. These cans are like $149 now.
   
   ​
   
   So you will be spending $157 for the gaming headphone and mic and $148 for the music/movies headphone. I know this has a huge drawback of switching headphones when you want to do either, but you can also use the HD 599 for gaming as it has good imaging. The sound stage is not as wide as the AD700x but it is still good enough for positioning shots. However this will give you the (relatively) best of both worlds for your budget. :)

>general music (mostly hip-hop/rap)

So I'm guessing it has to have a strong bass-response and perhaps some sub bass as well ?

• Urbanfun ts1, don't be put off by the fact that it's an AliExpress only 'Chi-Fi' product, these are basically a rebranded RBH-HP2. I've emailed with RBH to confirm this.
  
• One More H1707, these are foldable and very portable. The padding is soft, but from what I've heard this, for most people, does duty as an over-ear headphone.
  
• Takstar pro 82, I own these. Oddly enough at this price point these could still be the most comfortable headphones of all time. Sound signature is warm-ish, easy going. Don't be fooled by the bass ports though .. whatever music you're listening to, never is opening more than one bass port warranted unless you want to pour hot mud in your ears.
  
• Hifiman edition S, listened to these once. They had nice bass response (listening to Cliff Burton, Scott Reeder) and comfortable for strange ears like mine. Comfortable for sure, the entire headband is padded and distributes the weight over your head very well. Also foldable.
  
• Argon MKII, I wish I had these (I have the stock Fostex Rp MKIII). Planars = fast (and in this case) insane sub-bass response. Listened to these once.Alas international shipping is a bitch
  
  ​
  
  Hope this helps

EDIT: I am dumb I just saw you wanted closed back.

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open back or closed back? Open back is better for gaming but others will be able to hear what you hear. If it doesn't matter then open back for gaming.

OPEN Headphones:

ATH-AD700X - ~95 - 100 new https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD700X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S332TQ/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=ATH-AD700x&qid=1563901733&s=gateway&sr=8-2

ATH-AD900x - ~135 new https://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATH-AD900X-Open-Back-Audiophile-Headphones/dp/B009S331VU/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=ATH-AD700x&qid=1563901733&s=gateway&sr=8-3

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HE4XX - $180 new https://drop.com/buy/massdrop-x-hifiman-he4xx-planar-magnetic-headphones

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Sennheiser HD 58X - 160 new - https://drop.com/buy/massdrop-x-sennheiser-hd-58x-jubilee-headphones

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Closed headphones:

ATH m40x - $100 new https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M40x-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B00HVLUR54/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=ATH+m40x&qid=1563902298&s=gateway&sr=8-3

These are deemed better than the m50x's

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DT770 80 ohm - 135 new https://www.amazon.com/beyerdynamic-770-PRO-Studio-Headphone/dp/B0016MNAAI/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=DT770+80+ohm&qid=1563902448&s=gateway&sr=8-3

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ATH-MSR7 - 175 new https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-MSR7BK-SonicPro-High-Resolution-Headphones/dp/B00PEUBIKM/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=ATH%2Bmsr7&qid=1563902327&s=gateway&sr=8-3&th=1

I owned these and played CSGO and I had no issues hearing anyone. I made it to LEM (if that matters to you) Very clear audio. I also never used an amp with these so they can only get better. if you have more questions on these just message me, I can compare them to the HE4xx's as I now own those.

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AMP & Dac:

FX Audio DAC X6 - ~54.99 new https://www.amazon.com/FX-Audio-Optical-Coaxial-Amplifier/dp/B072JJT7SF/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=FX+Audio+DAC+X6&qid=1563901865&s=gateway&sr=8-3

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Schiit Fulla 2 - ~120 new https://www.amazon.com/Schiit-Fulla-Converter-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B07KWG13Q4/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=Schiit+Fulla+2&qid=1563902076&s=gateway&sr=8-3

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Basically I am no expert as I am just getting into the DAC/AMP world but from my research and this subreddits wiki and other sources, it seems better to put your money into better headphones and then into a better DAC/AMP. I would look for a used pair of headphones from

/r/AVexchange or /r/hardwareswap if you are wanting something better, I picked up a pair of HE4xx for 110 shipped.

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Just my two cents. I could be wrong and anyone please feel free to correct me as I am still learning all this.

AKG Q701

I got them recently. My first audiophile-grade headphones. The soundstage is to die for. They almost give the HD800 a run for their money when it comes to soundstage. They are really neutral, with a detailed bass (but in low quantity), decent midrange and great treble extension (both in quantity and quality). They are comfortable (at least for me) and built well. They can run off of computers or phones (you'll have to max out the volumes though) but they really shine when amped.

https://www.amazon.com/AKG-Signature-Reference-Class-Premium-Headphones/dp/B004444O3W/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3GC14BIS90AA9&keywords=akg+q701&qid=1558760370&s=gateway&sprefix=akg+q7%2Caps%2C341&sr=8-3

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An alternative you could consider:

https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-Open-Back-Professional-Headphone/dp/B00004SY4H/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3GC14BIS90AA9&keywords=akg+q701&qid=1558760370&s=gateway&sprefix=akg+q7%2Caps%2C341&sr=8-4

Some upgrades you could consider:

https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-650-Professional-Headphone/dp/B00018MSNI/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3GC14BIS90AA9&keywords=akg+q701&qid=1558760370&s=gateway&sprefix=akg+q7%2Caps%2C341&sr=8-5

https://www.amazon.com/AKG-Pro-Audio-Reference-Headphones/dp/B00DCXWXEI/ref=sr_1_16?crid=3GC14BIS90AA9&keywords=akg+q701&qid=1558760370&s=gateway&sprefix=akg+q7%2Caps%2C341&sr=8-16

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Phillips SHP9500

I've had them for quite some time now. While the AKG is great for critical and Hi-Fi listening, it is not that great for using for long periods of time like 3+ hours at a stretch. That's where these come in. These are the most comfortable pair of headphones I have ever put on my head (and I have put quite a few pairs on). They feel basically weightless on my head, and I can keep these on my head for hours (I think 14 hours is my record). Really cheap for what they offer, really great for Lo-Fi, but not great for Hi-Fi (not bad though). They have a good soundstage. They also have a mid-focused sound, which means that the vocals will be separated from the rest of the track and will take center stage, which is essential for movies. I would really recommend these. They went out of the market for a while but are back now.

https://www.newegg.com/p/pl?d=phillips+shp9500&N=-1&isNodeId=1&Submit=ENE&DEPA=0&Order=BESTMATCH

Good luck with your purchase!

Several good options on Amazon DE - there is a button to change language to english on the website.

Before we go into the options. Soundstage and imagining can help you determine where a gunshot or footsteps come from in an FPS for instance, or if there is something behind you in an RPG(Skyrim, Fallout(a mix of rpg and shooter) and in MMORPGs you can hear if the boss drops shit behind you. This is primarily regarding gaming, getting into how soundstage and imagine works in music would be too long to explain. But this is the basics.

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Open back: Better soundstage and Imaging - Mostly good for FPS games(but you can hear people in the room around you)

AKG K712 - I used to both listen to music and game with these, and they are a good value

Beyerdynamic DT 880 - I use this one for all genres, though it might be too analytical for you

Audio Technica ATH-AD700x - These are absolutely amazing for FPS games, but you might find them a bit boring in the music department coming from the A40s

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Closed back : These close you off from the outside world, imaging isn't as good, but you won't hear people around you as much IRL

Beyerdynamic Custon One Pro - They have a rather bass heavy sound signature, but the highs are clear and can be useful(depending on the game you play.

Sennheiser Momentum 2 Over-Ear(cabled version) - They aren't the best for shooters, but all other kinds of games they can do just fine. They are 56% off right now.

Audio Technica ATH-MSR7BK - These are highly regarded for gaming and are also an amazing all rounder for music

Audio Technica ATH-A700x - These are the closed back version of the AD700x they are good for gaming and a good all rounder, because of their closed back they have a warmer sound than the AD700x which is rather cold.

these, and these, and these, and these and these and these are probably the only your budget options, with the best being the last 3. The stuff I listed usually applies for people below 100 dollars but I am not aware of any great options apart maybe from the hd 4.50 that are between those prices. I think the best sounding headphones are hd 4.40, atleast according to people at r/headphones and reviewers, but their earcups, if you have above average ears, will be over ear and there won't be much comfort. The other pick would be the wh ch700n, I actually tested those and really liked them, they were a nice budget pair. If you have any chance to try them out yourself, I highly suggest you to do so

I know you said stretching would be tough, but in all honesty, Creative Aurvana Live sound like they'd work perfectly. $70 on Amazon. They punch well above their weight class. I don't imagine you'll upgrade for quite some time.

https://www.amazon.com/Creative-EF0060-Aurvana-Live-Headphones/dp/B000ZJZ7OA/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Creative+Aurvana+Live&qid=1564890924&s=electronics&sr=1-2

It sounds like you're looking for the exact same thing as me, haha. These days, I'm listening to a lot of k-pop, so there tends to be a solid emphasis on bass as well as vocal lines. These V-MODA headphones have the right marriage between the two, in my opinion. It's not overwhelming bass (unless you use an EQ to intentionally get that effect), and it's not overly harsh in terms of the vocal clarity like I've experienced on some other headphones. So if you're trying to grab something cheaper, then the Crossfade Wireless might be a good pick for you. The Gunmetal Black is still only $129, and you can grab some XL pads like these unofficial ones or the official V-MODA ones

Might be worth looking into for you. And if you don't like it, you can always return it and continue the search. The Crossfade 2 Wireless Codex that I have is quite a bit more expensive, but I think that the original Crossfade Wireless, even at $129 is a great choice for what you're trying to get.

You really should look into something with active noise cancelling. ANC was literally invented because a guy from Sony got stressed out over airplane noise.

The M50 is fine, but it's not really very isolating.

The $200 budget does limit your choices a little, but a pair of Bose Quietcomfort 25 might be just the ticket. A lot (a LOT) of people buy those for ANC and good (if not kick-ass) sound.

The QC25 should be in the $170-ish price point. You can Bluetooth-ify them for $30-ish - https://www.amazon.com/FiiO-uBTR-Bluetooth-Wireless-Receiver/dp/B07D8K76F4 but personally I'd pay the $69 for a FiiO BTR3 which is just outstanding in my book (have one, use one daily, love it to bits).

If you don't mind a single cable, I love the MEE M6B buds. Fantastic battery life (8+ hours), bluetooth 5.0, and sound great. IPX5. $30 USD

If you don't mind using a set of cables, You can use any 3.5mm headphone with the Fiio BTR3 bluetooth receiver. Built in AK Dac, Can be used as a USB Dac from any computer, 11 hours of playtime (can use while charging), and works with any normal impedance headphone (i can use with 300 ohm headphones, but they aren't that loud.). $70 USD.

There is a less expensive model uBTR that comes without the DAC/9 hours battery life. $30 USD.

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I haven't had too much experience in this price range, but these products I own myself and use them both for difference reasons. Good luck hunting!

Fair enough. At $179, the HE400i is a great deal. At $319 (or $259 refurbished) the HD650 is less competitive. Of course there are deals to be had in r/AVexchange as buyer and seller for those interested in auditioning.

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I don't have an opinion on the venerable E10K or the shiny new K3 having tried neither, but FiiO makes comparison easy. As a long-time happy FiiO customer, the only thing which would give me pause before buying the $110 K3 is the $100 Q1 Mark II.

Open back vs closed back.

Closed back means the back of them is literally closed so no (or minimal) sound leaks out. Closed usually has higher bass response (technical reason being standing waves, I believe, as sound bounces around inside the cans). Sennheiser Momentum 2 are closed.

Open back is just that. Sound waves leak out the back of them. Sennheiser HD 558 are open.

Open back is easier to get better sound out of, technical reason being there are no or minimal standing waves, which can unintentionally boost certain frequencies. Open back also usually has a wider sound stage, things sound like they're coming from farther away from your head, as opposed to inside your head. Not sure the technical reason for that. :) But probably something to do with being able to control bouncing or standing waves easily because they just run out the back.

Closed back is kinder to people around you, or if you don't want to listen to things going on around you. Noise-cancelling headphones are something else entirely and actively try to cancel out outside sound using an opposite sound wave generator, so the sound waves are quite literally cancelled out.

I've been having the same debate as you for a while. I think the answer is to get both (if you can) because they're built for different things, but do them excellently.

What I did was buy the PC37X, because I'll mainly be using them for gaming, and since they provide a more open soundstage, more base and have an excellent mic, I think that they'll work better for me.

I'm going to try pairing them with a cheap DAC/amp, I'm going to be testing them this week with either the Fiio BTR3 connected through USB C (which I can also use wirelessly with my iPhone over Bluetooth and other headphones). So they're convenient but may be lacking a bit in power.

I'll also be testing it with Syba Sonic's UBS 24 bit 96 KHz DAC/Amp (For under $40 it's hard to argue with)

I also considered the Sennheiser GSX 1000 Gaming Audio Amplifier, but will only test it out if the other options don't perform well for me.

I'll let you know how it goes. What option did you end up going with u/HasHooves?

One option is to get something like the Fiio BTR3 https://smile.amazon.com/FiiO-BTR3-Bluetooth-Receiver-Portable/dp/B07FVN14FH and then get whatever headphones you like. :) If you go this route, you'll ideally want headphones with a short or easily replaceable cord.

The V-moda Wireless used to be a lot more expensive but dropped in price once the Vmoda Wireless 2 hit the scene. They don't go for an audiophile sound, but they are really engaging to listen to when you embrace how "fun" the sound signature is. I bought them for my wife last month and I now steal them when I want a good, V-shaped (emphasized bass and treble) over ear headphone. AND they don't have ANC, as per your specifications.

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https://www.amazon.com/V-MODA-Crossfade-Wireless-Over-Ear-Headphone/dp/B015R7AGHC/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=vmoda%2Bwireless&qid=1556940707&s=gateway&sr=8-2&th=1

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Would highly recommend spending a little extra and getting the XL pads for them too.

https://www.amazon.com/V-MODA-XL-Cushions-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B00K3K8TKA/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=vmoda+XL+pads&qid=1556940952&s=gateway&sr=8-2

I found these M50x's the other day, and you can save $30 usd if you don't mind or like them in blue : https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50xBB-Limited-Professional-Headphones/dp/B071236L4G/ref=pd_cp_267_1/147-4675144-1090053?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B071236L4G&pd_rd_r=625b20fd-9467-44f7-886e-2da01de822bb&pd_rd_w=0SsZ0&pd_rd_wg=2dGS6&pf_rd_p=0e5324e1-c848-4872-bbd5-5be6baedf80e&pf_rd_r=F0VWJJYCSAGQ0TPRZAYF&psc=1&refRID=F0VWJJYCSAGQ0TPRZAYF
This bluetooth adapter works well: https://www.amazon.com/FiiO-BTA10-Bluetooth-Amplifier-ATH-M50X/dp/B07L6DL863/ref=pd_cp_267_4/147-4675144-1090053?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07L6DL863&pd_rd_r=3d71ade9-fee3-493e-9214-0fbea20b0691&pd_rd_w=OZkAR&pd_rd_wg=oOfcV&pf_rd_p=0e5324e1-c848-4872-bbd5-5be6baedf80e&pf_rd_r=4VATMVWH7K2EW2GB8892&psc=1&refRID=4VATMVWH7K2EW2GB8892 There are cheaper adapters than this but this one sounds really clean for bluetooth and delivers decent power.
Speaking of cheaper:https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50x-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B07NDBZNG1/ref=sr_1_3?crid=TBN971UVGJN8&keywords=audio%2Btechnica%2Bm50x&qid=1572457929&sprefix=audio%2Btechnica%2Bm%2Caps%2C244&sr=8-3&th=1 This is a 'renewed' M50x with a generic bluetooth adapter for $120 Personally I'd buy new.
I really like Vmoda Crossfades, they're a little darker sounding, more punch to bass, but the construction is much more durable than the AT's: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015R7AGHC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thanks for the advice, as well as the info about DAC :). I decided to buy these. Thank you for the help! Also, think I need to buy anything along side it, or will I be well off with just the headset itself?

Have you considered bluetooth? FiiO's BTR3 is LDAC compatible and (in the best circumstances) the compression should be unnoticeable and the sound should be as good as any other wired DAC at this price. Plus you can use it wired for your phone and PC. The Mi8 came out with android 8, so it will be LDAC capable. £55 worth taking a look-

​

https://www.amazon.co.uk/FiiO-BTR3-Bluetooth-Headphone-Amp/dp/B07FVN14FH

Since you need them to be closed-back for isolation, I would suggest these (in ascending cost order):

Audio Technica mx50 ($150)

V-MODA Crossfade M-100 ($250)

Meze 99 Classics ($300)

The Audio Technicas are a good all-rounder, which a slight emphasis on the bass. The even cheaper mx40s are more neutral. The V-Moda Crossfades are the most "exciting" in that the frequency response is going to be more v-shaped with emphasized bass and sparkly treble. The Meze 99s are, honestly, a big step up and are some of the most universally-acclaimed closed-back cans around. But I know they're a bit out of your price range. Just read the reviews of these models and see which one you think is the best fit.

This is so hard because everything I want is so freaking EXPENSIVE!!!!

But I'll do my best.

All links below will be to items I can get online. No eBay or 2nd hand sales.

My dream cans, Mr. Speaker Ether C - $1,500
https://www.musicdirect.com/mrspeakers-ether-c-closed-back-headphones

Questyle CMA 400i DAC/Amp - $800
https://www.moon-audio.com/questyle-audio-cma400i-dac-headphone-amplifier.html

Fiio Q1 Mk. 2 - $100
https://www.amazon.com/Q1-Mark-II-Native-Amplifier/dp/B0757MH46M

HD 58x Jubilee - $150 (Massdrop)

Dark Voice 336SE Tube Amp - $310
https://www.amazon.com/DarkVoice-336SE-Headphone-Tube-Amplifier/dp/B00CF9JON8

KZ ZST - $20
https://www.amazon.com/Yinyoo-ZST-Banlance-Armature-monitors/dp/B01LZ6Y51W

https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-Momentum-Wireless-Active-Cancellation/dp/B00SNI44CQ

​

These? If so, they look good. Really nice sale on them right now too. Thanks for the recommendation!

Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250 Ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones in Black.

JDS Labs Atom Headphone Amp

Schiit Modi 3 D/A Converter - Delta-Sigma DAC

It's important to note to get the Modi 3 DAC, not the Modi 1 or 2. The Modi 3 is a much-improved device according to Audio Science Review. JDS Atom amp is one of the best new amps on the market and is also highly reviewed from Audio Science Review. There are different impedance versions of the DT 770. You'll need to pick between 80 ohm vs 250 ohm. Unless you plan on taking your headphones on the road to be powered by a cellphone or laptop, I'd recommend the 250-ohm version. Collectively these are roughly $140 + $100 + $120 = $360 excluding taxes/shipping and expenses acquiring the necessary cables.

and this is probably one of the best Bluetooth adapters, it also got a mic and the 70 dolar version is much better, but this one is also good: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D8K76F4/ref=twister_B07K65X5KB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

they ARE NOT hd 660s no matter what the z review tells you.

​

They are just 90% of an hd660 at 40% the price lol. Seriously though, if you are looking for a headphone under 200 dollars and you like the sennheiser sound these are number one on your list.

​

Yeah you do need a dac amp, but you can get away with a lot because of the low impedance. Here is what I got https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0757MH46M/ref=dp_cr_wdg_tit_nw_mr.. Total expenditure for both items $270. The JDS labs atom I am sure would make these sound better still and is within your budget

This is what I ended up getting, and it's pretty great. I almost always listen to music on my phone, which is doesn't have a 3.5mm port (I really dislike this trend), and the uBTR is a good way to still use my wired headphones.

https://www.amazon.com/FiiO-uBTR-Bluetooth-Wireless-Receiver/dp/B07D8K76F4

yep the bass is pretty good: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZJZ7OA/

Enable high quality stream on your iDevice.


The A3 I'm sure is a great amp but you'll be running quite a few wires so if your fine with that I would get this little badboy instead since you won't being needing too much to drive your cans.



But if you want to run higher res files go with this FiiO. Built for iDevices, dongle and everything, so less cables. (I don't run iDevices but I do use that FiiO mentioned and it runs fine on my android).


P.S. Get a cheap tpu case the former has velcro the latter doesn't, if your like Bane "Time to go mobile".

Definitely go with BoomPro compatible headphones exclusively, here are the good ones:


$80 Phillips SHP9500 (Legendary at this point. Neutral, budget open backs)
https://www.amazon.com/Philips-SHP9500S-Precision-Over-ear-Headphones/dp/B00ENMK1DW/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=shp9500&qid=1563772615&s=electronics&sr=1-1
$150 Phillips X2 are insanely cheap right now (Very fun open-back V, bassy, wide, lots of highs)

https://www.amazon.com/Philips-X2-27-Fidelio-Headphone/dp/B00O2Y2MZG/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=Phillips+x2&qid=1563772390&s=gateway&sr=8-5


$155 Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro Plus (closed, wide and sub bass)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PK2LJ4E/?coliid=I3S3RARRY1S5EG&colid=2SEGBNT3SLW9V&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it


$299 T60RP. Just about the highest end headphones that are BoomPro compatible. Can be Argon modded as well for another $100 (adds even more bass, detail, and wider sound stage)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07995MGX7/?coliid=INUMNQICQATPS&colid=2SEGBNT3SLW9V&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it


Onboard PC audio is fine, but the $150 Sennheiser GSX 1000 is an end game DAC/MIXAMP/audio controller for gaming headsets and really enhances the experience.

V Moda M100

You'll almost certainly have to get the XL pads, which is an extra expense.

Newegg in Canada is having a good sale on the Philips X2HR. It is an open back headphone with more bass than the vast majority of open back sets, it just doesn't reach into the sub bass as well as some closed back headphones.

The X2 is compatible with your Boompro mic.

AD700x and just grab a
Zalman mic until you can save for a better one.

https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-Momentum-Wireless-Active-Cancellation/dp/B00SNI44CQ

Perfect value for price.

> aurvana live 1

Are you talking about these? If yes, then they are too expensive for me:( its almost double the price here in canada for some reason. Thanks for the suggestions tho.

i have these and i love them https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD700X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S332TQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1540851471&sr=1-1&keywords=Audio-Technica+ATH-AD700X

If you do not mind ordering from the UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Philips-X2HR-Resolution-Headphones-Isolation-Black/dp/B01N5VHLUG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=NTBOG01Z1L2H&keywords=fidelio+x2&qid=1571085764&smid=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&sprefix=fidil%2Caps%2C210&sr=8-1

and this mic

https://www.amazon.co.uk/V-MODA-BoomPro-Microphone-Gaming-Communication/dp/B00BJ17WKK/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1TJ0DRCWQKYXS&keywords=vmoda+boompro&qid=1571085897&sprefix=v+moda+boo%2Caps%2C421&sr=8-2

​

More expensive and better soundstage, but poor bass, but great for fps games. But you need to run 2 cables, on for the headphone and one for the mic.

https://www.amazon.es/AKG-K712PRO-Auriculares-frecuencia-10-39800Hz/dp/B00DCXWXEI/ref=sr_1_4?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=2WE5LUPKHXMU3&keywords=akg+k712+pro&qid=1571085971&sprefix=akg+k712%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-4

and this mic

https://www.amazon.es/Micrófono-Audio-cancelación-Interruptor-Silencio/dp/B00R98O6R4/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&keywords=modmic&qid=1571086013&sr=8-1

I got ya: V-MODA Crossfade Wireless @ Amazon for $185 new, $144 used on avg. Let me know how you like em, I've been thinking of grabbing a pair myself once things level out.

Do you mean these

Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 Wireless with Active Noise Cancellation- Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SNI44CQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_62MYDb7EHC4BY

Thanks for the insight!

>I see some $99 V-Moda model thrown quite a lot around here, but I haven't listened to it.

These ones maybe ? https://www.amazon.com/V-MODA-Crossfade-Wireless-Over-Ear-Headphone/dp/B015R7AGHC/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=V-Moda&qid=1555377950&s=gateway&sr=8-3

I also recommend the ES100. It is double your state budget though. The FiiO BTR3 is a bit cheaper and will be more than sufficient for the IEMs you mentioned.

>I plan to use them mainly with my computer and sometimes my phone.

If you're going to use it sometimes on your phone then choose the 32 ohms.

It will be significantly easier to drive out of the box, no dac/amp required.

However, throwing in even a small inexpensive but quality dac/amp will significantly improve sound especially on the lower bass end.

• http://www.schiit.com/products/fulla-1
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/FiiO-A3-Portable-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B00Z9BIODA/ref=sr_1_12?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1543455349&sr=1-12&keywords=fiio
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Fiio-E17K-ALPEN-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B00RPD7KP8/ref=sr_1_19?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1543455373&sr=1-19&keywords=fiio
  
  
• And if you're a mac person

$24.50 on the Monoprice site (which you might want to try on mobile or something because you may have internet issues; the link works for me).

The price is higher on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0783GX57G

Monolith M1060, K712, HD660s (Secondhand), DT1990 (secondhand) come to mind. I'm leaning towards the M1060 as top recommendation taking all that into account, but the build might seem "cheap" to you, I'll link them so you can see.

https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD700X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S332TQ/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=ad700x&qid=1565556384&s=gateway&sr=8-1

Here are some options that match your Description:


Ghostek Cannon price: $75 - Full Match


iTeknic price: $70 - Full Match


Creative Aurvana Live! price: $70 - Full Match


Status Audio CB-1 price: $70 - Full Match


Avantree ANC031 price: $70 - Full Match


DACOM HF002 price: $66 - Full Match


Seneo Hybrid price: $60 - Full Match


LyxPro OEH-10 price: $60 - Full Match


Mpow H10 price: $60 - Full Match


Paww WaveSound 2.1 price: $60 - Full Match


Source: BudgetSet


if you find this reply useless, downvote for removal.

https://www.amazon.com/Creative-EF0060-Aurvana-Live-Headphones/dp/B000ZJZ7OA/

https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-650-Professional-Headphone/dp/B00018MSNI

Reading the reviews on those led me to this https://smile.amazon.com/V-MODA-Crossfade-Wireless-Over-Ear-Headphone/dp/B015R7AGHC/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=vmoda&qid=1571951497&sr=8-1&sa-no-redirect=1&th=1

https://www.amazon.com/Q1-Mark-II-Native-Amplifier/dp/B0757MH46M

i would try the fiio q1 mk2

Fiio makes portable DAC/amps: https://www.amazon.com/FiiO-Q1-Mark-II-Amplifier/dp/B0757MH46M/

Not a ton of good choices at that price but here are two to read about that might work for you:

Philips SPH9500
https://www.amazon.com/Philips-SHP9500S-Precision-Over-ear-Headphones/dp/B00ENMK1DW


Audio Technica ATH-AD700x
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD700X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S332TQ

Why would you go to the trouble of all those extra things to plug in instead or an all in one?


Like these you were mentioning?


https://www.amazon.com/V-MODA-Crossfade-Wireless-Over-Ear-Headphone/dp/B015R7AGHC/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1540234845&sr=8-2-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=vmoda%2Bcrossfade%2B2%2Bwireless&psc=1&th=1

is your budget flexible at all?

if you can stretch $10 get these. build quality unparalleled for sub $100. quality sound, signature is poor man's Beyerdynamic DT 770. mic is detachable.

these are also good and closer to your budget, but the build quality is not as nice and they are not as comfortable. sound signature is analogous to a Th-x00

https://www.amazon.com/FiiO-uBTR-Bluetooth-Wireless-Receiver/dp/B07D8K76F4

​

You can get one of the many bluetooth dongles for your sennheiser. You aren't going to get open back over ear bluetooth headphones sadly. Feel free to ignore the link and research yourself. Actually if you have the time I recomend going down to your local audio store ask for bluetooth receivers to try out.

Would you advise the AD700X at 91.20$ (Link = https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-AD700X-Audiophile-Open-Air-Headphones/dp/B009S332TQ?th=1) or get the 58X or 6XX? also I have no DAC, will I need one for the AD700X?

Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009S332TQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_D0NvCbYYV4HNX


It's on sale now. Quick pick it up!!!! It's a steal at that price.