Hi everyone!
Im in the market for some headphones and thought I would ask for some help. At the moment I am looking at getting a pair that will be used for my home studio and also just daily use for when I'm on the bus etc.
I've narrowed it down to the following but I am more than happy to hear other suggestions or if these are not the best for what I want to use them for.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50S
KRK KNS8400
V-MODA Crossfade M-80
i will buy m50s if they come in red.
found ath-pro500 mk2 in red, almost bought but i have small head so it doesnt rest properly on my head
These are out of your budget by $50, but the Sennheiser HD25-1-ii Closed supra-aural (on-ear) headphones are around $200 if you shop around, or go on eBay (check for positive feedback before buying; I got mine on eBay for $190, couldn't be happier).
These have an extremely balanced sound (unlike the M50s) a conveniently sized cord (unlike the M50s) and are very easy to drive (again, unlike the M50s). They are also smaller and lighter, and extremely durable. I would say the M50 are more comfortable (being circumaural), but I comfortably wear my HD25 all day as well, I just had to switch to the velour ear-pads that come with them, and now they're worn in, they're perfect.
They are an all round better set of headphones than the ATH-M50, and unfortunately they are priced as such. However, for what you get, they are exceptional value, and if you're spending money on headphones, this is $50 I would be glad to spend.
Thanks for the responses. Just curious Tunblor, what do you mean when you say the Sennheiser HD25-1-ii are easy to drive. Im fairly inexperienced when it comes to this sort of thing.
"Easy to drive" means that the HD25-1 ii headphones can be run with a low power source such as an iPod or iPhone (even the old ones). With many headphones, you need an amp (portable pocket-sized ones are available too) in order to meet the power needed to run the headphones.
The M50s and the HD25-1 ii both are pretty easy to run. Both headphones will be great without an amp and should be even better with one (although its not a necessity). If you are looking for an amp to go with your headphones, Fiio has a lot to offer as a great mobile amp brand.
How about the KRK KNS8400, would that need an amp? And does the amp boost overall quality or would it vary depending on the phones?
Now I'll have to research amps as well :P
Nah. It should do just fine without one. An amp will improve audio quality however the amount will ultimately be affected by the quality of the music files being played (a 128kbps mp3 won't sound as good as a lossless file) and also the device. Either way, an improvement is a given.
Look at getting Allesandro MS-1, the best quality sound you will find for under $200 ($140rrp), very well balanced, just up to you if you like the look and on-ear feel.
But you should probably get some Superlux phones either the HD681 or HD668b, both can be had for under $50 and are better than all the ones you listed.
+1 for Alessandro MS-1, I personally love the sound of them. But they're not as portable (quite a long and thick cable) and are "open" headphones so will leak sound.
Maybe also consider Audio Technica ATH-ES7, especially if you plan to use them when you're out (on a bus etc). They're relatively light, short cable, and have decent sound.
Depends what's most important to you, I guess (using at home vs on the go). Both pairs are under $150 AUD.
From the ones you have listed, I'd say the M50s are a pretty good choice.
Great headphones with a great build.
The V-Moda get some mixed feeling by people. I say not bad quality but the sound isn't as good as that of the M50. Note: These are on-ear headphones.
The KNS8400 are some of the best 'phones for studio use at that price. Relatively flat and clear. The detachable cable is a nice addition.
I'd say either the KNS8400 or M50s, leaning towards the KNS8400