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Looking to buy a good pair of headphones? Use this image. (i.imgur.com)

submitted ago by kookajamo95

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[–]nightwraith35711 216 points217 points ago

Personally, I don't really put much stock in a 4chan post from almost three years ago. A much better guide, and much more recent, can be found here.

[–]krixo 57 points58 points ago

explains why OP's list doesn't have Beats by DRE at the top

Sarcasm

[–]beatsaudio[!] 43 points44 points ago

Because of my name I get downvoted all the time because of the association there is to my name. I hate the gimmick headphones of Beats by DRE. They are way over priced and not even a reasonably balanced in dynamics. My name stands for an audio organization called Beginning Engineering Audio Technical Students. We were students of Audio Production and I will tell you, you will get laughed at if you ever wear the Beats by Dre HPs. (I've waited almost a year to explain this, just because of it's irrelevance to everything.)
EDIT: It has been a year. wow!

[–]Rocketbird 7 points8 points ago

Happy cake day! I always laugh when I see people wearing Beats. They're the new Bose.

[–]IchthyoidPhalanges 1 point2 points ago

I have a pair of beats studios for more than a year now and I am very, very out of the loop when it comes to this shit. I like the way they fit and sound. Changing the batteries is a bit of a pain however. Overall though, I'm happy with them. It seems like they get a lot of hate but they do the job I bought them to do. Could you explain why people feel the way they do about this stuff? I mean, does it really matter which headphones other people are using?

[–]SeikanHikou 0 points1 point ago

I mean, does it really matter which headphones other people are using?

Ultimately no. But the problem is that many owners of Beats think they are the be all end all of headphones (because of the hype and the price point), and refuse to believe that not only are there better sounding, better quality headphones out there, but that those headphones cost less as well, and will argue the point. Those people almost always have also never tried on anything beyond "shit tier" (like Skullcandy, etc) headphones.

IMO, "active noise cancelling" headphones are bullshit. To me, active noise cancelling is only good for constant droning sounds (like on an airplane), and that touting active noise cancelling as an everyday feature is a sign that the headphones don't seal very well (i.e. passive noise cancelling).

Whenever I see someone with Beats, my first thought is that they are someone who got them for the look, and not for sound quality.

[–]IAmGarrisonKeillor 0 points1 point ago

I think the general consensus is that Beats are, like Bose, overpriced for their moderate quality. There are much better options available for less, but you're paying for the brand and image. They're also very bass heavy, which works fine for a lot of modern hip-hop and pop, but doesn't produce a full range of sound as well for other genres.

I can't explain why people get so angry and/or self-righteous at people buying things they don't like. I try to offer helpful advice to friends and family members and steer them away from Beats/Bose/Monster just because I want to help them get the most bang for their buck.

[–]IchthyoidPhalanges 0 points1 point ago

Fair enough. I really didn't do a whole heap of research before I bought them. I read a couple of reviews went to a store and tried them and to me (in perhaps my ignorance) they sounded fucking incredible. I heard things in tracks that I had never heard before. Plus they are a pair of sweet looking headphones, would you agree? To me, at that point, it seemed like a no brainer purchase. When they do finally bite the dust I'll probably shop around a bit more but for now, I'm super happy with them and for me that's enough.

[–]Rocketbird 0 points1 point ago

It's a mark of ignorance and submission to branding over quality. With some research, you'd have quickly found out that they're selling you a brand when there are better products available out there for the same price, or cheaper. It's only business, some companies choose to emphasize sleekness and style (they do look nice), and that comes at the cost of audio quality if they're trying to maintain the same price and profit margin. There's a lot to know about headphones and audio quality, but the short of it is that brands like Sennheiser, Shure, and even Sony (sometimes) produce a quality product because they're invested in the audio industry with other products such as microphones and amps, versus Bose and Beats who only produce consumer-end audio electronics.

In terms of people's reactions, it's exactly a matter of noting when someone's been sold a product solely due to advertising or looks instead of quality. I guess I shouldn't say I laugh when I see people wearing them, that's a bit severe, but it's like a stamp of "I don't really know anything about audio."

[–]hughi94 1 point2 points ago

/r/audiojerk

[–]Its_Porsch-ah 2 points3 points ago

Or Bose???

[–]phonetechgoon 3 points4 points ago

Actually, it mentions Bose at the bottom.

[–]alepov 1 point2 points ago

Bose is like Apple. Product is good, but the same quality can be obtained twice as cheap from a different brand.

[–]White_Luigi 1 point2 points ago

Bose can get crazy expensive.

[–]gargravarrr 0 points1 point ago

Not worth it. You're buying their advertising, the headphones (or anything else they make) aren't that great.

[–]Goodly 5 points6 points ago

It's not bad, just overpriced...

[–]ineedausernameplease 3 points4 points ago

It's a pretty good guide, I think. I own two pair from this (coincidentally). It is really old, though.

[–]DNZ_not_DMZ 4 points5 points ago

In general it's best to avoid products made by Skullcandy, Bose, Beats, or Monster unless otherwise specified in this thread.

Too true. The amount of people who think that Beats By Dre or that Skullcandy shit is any good because of the fancy packaging is way too large. Poor fools.

[–]al3xtec 1 point2 points ago

I have owned the FMJ IEMs from Skullcandy and have had no issues for 4 years. The bass on those IEM are way better then the other IEMs I have ever tried. They have a lifetime warranty. What am i missing?

[–]elitegibson 2 points3 points ago

Thanks for the link. LifeProTips is awesome because if the tip is lacking the top comment will always provide the correct answer.

[–]7tenths 2 points3 points ago

Almost nothing in that made any sense to me, but have an upvote

[–]haiku1991 0 points1 point ago

i noticed that it was an old post, thanks for the updated one

[–]gargravarrr 0 points1 point ago

Your link is good too, but the original link is also pretty much spot on, except that it's a little outdated.

Source: four years of university training in audio engineering

[–]Fealiks 0 points1 point ago

Looks like a much more reliable guide, thanks. If anyone etc. Going to sleep now.

[–]mstrkrft- 0 points1 point ago

I own a pair of the Superlux HD-330 and while they're not mentioned in this guide, other models are. They're pretty much knockoffs of other brands and their build quality isn't necessarily the best, but they do sound great for the price. In Germany, you can get them for 30$ or even slightly less.. if you're on a budget, you can't do better than these, in my opinion.

[–]Xet 0 points1 point ago

Yep there's very little info regarding good quality cheaper full sized headsets, of which there are quite a lot available.

[–]evoLverR 46 points47 points ago

This is REALLY old. The updated threads are available here:

IEM : http://www.head-fi.org/t/478568/

Over-the-ear : http://www.head-fi.org/t/433318

[–]BenTK 0 points1 point ago

Oh, good post! I was going to paste the IEM link.

[–]oxgon 0 points1 point ago

Anyone have the same link for gaming head phones?

load more comments (1 reply)

    [–]minimumrockandroll 10 points11 points ago

    Old, but still good. I don't see the updated version doing anything new but giggling at people dumb enough to buy Beats.

    Them Grado 60i's are still the best deal going.

    [–]icecreamguy 5 points6 points ago

    Hell yes. I have the Grado SR80s and my brother had a pair when we were growing up. It really is mindblowing how different and how much more detailed music sounds going from something like your car or IEMs or an entertainment center to something like a pair of Grados. When you close your eyes it literally sounds like you are in the room with the musicians, depending on the quality of what you're listening to of course. I know it sounds hokey, but if you've never had anything nicer than Bose, moving to something like Grado will be a huge difference; you don't need to be an audiophile to appreciate it, either.

    When we were younger (15+ years ago), my brother's pair stopped working years after we had bought them. We called up Grado, they said to send them in, and they fixed them for free. Not sure if they still do stuff like that, but it was pretty nice of them and we are both happy to have working Grados to this day.

    [–]EccentricWyvern 2 points3 points ago

    I hear they still do. And I love my 80is.

    [–]anna-banana 0 points1 point ago

    Which is better, the Grado 60i or the Grado SR80?

    [–]roryborealis 0 points1 point ago

    I prefer the SR80.

    [–]Orgasmus 8 points9 points ago

    the Audio Technica m50 headphones are the best thing that I have exchanged money for. If you want headphones with unbiased sound and for production, I recommend these.

    [–]_Entropy 3 points4 points ago

    So much this.

    [–]Cheesus00Crust 2 points3 points ago

    Unfortunately no soundstage

    [–]VERYstuck 1 point2 points ago

    I recently purchased these headphones, and agree with this assessment.

    [–]yargdpirate 5 points6 points ago

    Can I get a Klipsch Image s4i up in here?

    [–]DeusIgnis 0 points1 point ago

    Do you know how good the rugged ones are?

    [–]yargdpirate 0 points1 point ago

    Haven't tried them, but assuming they're of the same quality as their predecessors, they cover for the only weakness of the originals, which is their durability.

    [–]DeusIgnis 0 points1 point ago

    Thanks! I'm just looking for a good pair to wear at the gym. The rugged ones look great.

    [–]kissarmymax 14 points15 points ago

    Meh, i used www.headphonemecca.com

    [–]Cloudy-Blue 4 points5 points ago

    Holy shit this is awesome !!!

    Edit : Well, not that awesome actually, those are DJ's headphones, I wanted portable headphones, thanks anyway.

    [–]SeikanHikou 3 points4 points ago

    Those aren't DJ headphones, those are full-sized headphones.

    Headphones recommended more for DJing will have a different set of priorities vs headphones intended for relaxed playback usage.

    [–]Cloudy-Blue 0 points1 point ago

    But all of them said -in my price range- DJ headphones (or something like that). I tend to believe it because they have 3+ meters of wire wich is not really necessary for relaxed playback. I'm confused now

    [–]SeikanHikou 1 point2 points ago

    Where are you seeing that?

    What makes a pair of headphones suitable for DJing is isolation, sound neutrality, and durability. A DJ needs a pair of headphones that can block out outside sound so they can cue tracks accurately, not "color" the sound so that they can adjust the EQ correctly both for mixing and to sound proper through speakers, and durable enough to withstand the abuse they'll see being thrown in a bag and taken out in different venues.

    Cable length doesn't matter. There are plenty of headphones out there that are aimed more towards audiophiles that have very long cables, and cable extensions are always available for someone who might need more.

    [–]Cloudy-Blue 0 points1 point ago

    I... must have misread O__o can't find it anymore, anyway, that means that I could buy any of those to my personal use and take them with me everywhere? (Bus, Tram, Train...)

    [–]SeikanHikou 2 points3 points ago

    Theoretically yeah.

    Ideally, you'll want to just use that as a guide to narrow down your choices, and then find somewhere or someone that has the headphones you're interested so you can try them on.

    You could have headphones with the best drivers in the world, but it won't mean anything if they don't sit right on your head or feel unwieldy or uncomfortable to wear.

    If you're going to be using a set of headphones everywhere (i.e. in public), you'll want to go with a set of closed cans that have at least decent isolation. If you use semi-open or open headphones in public, that one asshole that's blasting their music for everyone to hear is going to be you.

    When it comes to headphones that you can take and use everywhere, I usually suggest headphones that also tend to be popular in the DJ community: Sennheiser HD280 Pro, Sennheiser HD 25-1 II, Aiaiai TMA-1, or Beyerdynamic DT-770 PRO.

    When you move from headphones strictly for home use, to headphones for everywhere use, you have to give up some of the sound quality/sound stage for durability and courtesy for others.

    While that guide is a good jumping off point, just be aware that it's targeted more towards home-only usage.

    If you really want to melt your brain (and make your wallet hide in fear), spend some time over at Head-Fi.org

    [–]Cloudy-Blue 0 points1 point ago

    Okay i'll check this, thanks a lot for your answers!

    [–]Pollo_Bueno 0 points1 point ago

    Try www.urbanears.com

    They sound excellent for the price and have such a nice design, and feel great. I splurged on some Shures but my ears ring with them so I tried these out and absolutely loved them

    [–]Cloudy-Blue 1 point2 points ago

    Are the Zinken actually a good choice for the price? (Regarding sound quality, I don't care about the rest)

    [–]Pollo_Bueno 0 points1 point ago

    I've got the Plattan and they sound great for sixty but I've sadly never heard a pair of Zinkens so I can't tell you for sure.

    [–]CSharpSauce 2 points3 points ago

    I must not be an audiophile because I've been using my Bose headphones for 4 years, and am still pretty happy with them.

    [–]ChrisCipher 11 points12 points ago

    It's not that they aren't good headphones, they aren't good at the price they're sold at

    [–]Gian_Doe 1 point2 points ago

    Not to sound like I'm hawking bose here but I got a set of them a while back for free with Marriott rewards points. That pair frayed from heavy use a year later so I called bose and they said for 50 bucks I can get the warranty. I paid 50 bucks and they sent me a new pair.

    A year later those frayed, called them up, they sent me a new pair for free. Another year same story (I live in NYC and use them constantly), called them up, and they sent me the new model. I still have those and if they break I just call them up and they send me a new pair.

    What I'm getting at here is if you're the type of person who eats through headphones because of extremely high usage, I'm on my fourth pair and anytime they go bad they just send me new ones.

    [–]bluesoul 1 point2 points ago

    Anyone that's worked retail audio will tell you Bose does indeed go above and beyond their stated warranty for the vast majority of their customers. My gripe with them is their stubborn refusal to publish any real specs (sensitivity, attenuation, range and so forth).

    [–]Gian_Doe 0 points1 point ago

    Not publishing the specs is really annoying. They're pretty good, I think the last model had better sound than the new model but perhaps they're actually better and they're bringing out the shitty aspects of my mp3s.

    That said they're comfortable as hell with that gell stuff, they never come out when I'm running even with a ton of sweat, and I paid 50 bucks for a set of headphones that I can replace once a year no questions asked (just have to send back the old ones). Not a bad deal at all. I wonder how long they'll keep letting me to it, it's going on half a decade now.

    [–]bluesoul 1 point2 points ago

    If you're at (or above) 192kbps CBR or V0 VBR, you've really taken MP3 artifacting out of the equation, at least for it to be a meaningful difference. Far more likely they've changed some of the components.

    [–]Gian_Doe 0 points1 point ago

    Yeah all my stuff with a few exceptions is V0. The new model seems more tinny than the old ones which had a really warm sound. The earpieces are much much nicer though especially if you're spending a lot of time when they're in. After the second pair busted I bought some Klipsch because of the bose hate and I could afford it at the time. But they were uncomfortable so took them back, called bose, and then sent me the new models for free.

    I feel like the bass response on the first model was better, but that might be connected to the tinny/warm issue as well.

    [–]carlcon 4 points5 points ago

    What I need is a guide for people who wear glasses and want full-sized headphones.

    I wear contacts while out and about, but at home I want to be able to wear my glasses and headphones in comfort, which is something I've never experienced.

    [–]SeikanHikou 0 points1 point ago

    You're better off just going to Head-Fi and seeking out specific threads for recommendations, and then finding someone or somewhere that you can try those cans out.

    Headphones with glasses is definitely a hit or miss case by case thing based on a whole host of factors.

    By virtue of design, you'll probably be recommended supra aural headphones (and suggestions to just go the IEM route), as your glasses might interfere with how well a pair of circumaural headphones will seal (as well as probably not feel comfortable).

    [–]starofthelid 0 points1 point ago

    I have Sennheiser HD598s. I wear them with glasses all the time and there's no discomfort whatsoever. They have very large and soft cups.

    [–]cadav 4 points5 points ago

    No Sennheiser HD 25? Boo

    [–]whencanistop 6 points7 points ago

    Just to go against the grain, I use cheap £8 marshmallow headphones that last about 4 months until they break or a lose them. I'd spend more, but I'm not convinced an extra £100 for a pair I'd lose or break in 4 months is worth the increase in quality when 95% of the time you're listening to the Killers and the like on a busy train.

    [–]djnathanv 10 points11 points ago

    I've been using Sennheiser HD280Pro headphones here in Afghanistan and I travel constantly. They're holding up great and have a nice solid and neutral sound for under $100.

    [–]proudhighway 7 points8 points ago

    I've had my HD280s for nearly 3 years, they are fantastic headphones.

    [–]SeikanHikou 0 points1 point ago

    I've (ab)used my pair of HD280s for both home and DJ use for more than 5 years with no problems. They are absolutely a great bang for the buck.

    [–]Namika 3 points4 points ago

    For using in the bus or on an airplane, then yea get whatever cheap $5 you can find.

    But headphones for use on a desk? (Most PC gamers use headphones rather than speakers) For desk headphones you should really put buy the best ones you can afford. I bought some $200 Sennheisers back in 2006 and I still use them daily. It's not like I'm going to break/lose them since they are either on my desk or on my head (the more sturdy construction helps too)

    Six full years of having awesome headphones that I use everyday. Better sound quality and better comfort every day for six years. That's worth every penny.

    [–]ChrisCipher 1 point2 points ago

    I get super cheap earbuds (often just Apple ones) for when I'm on the go. If I'm at my desk or something, though, I like to have a nice pair

    [–]Biscuitaddict 0 points1 point ago

    JVC Gumy for me, I can find them for as cheap as £4 sometimes, they've lasted well longer than 6 months for me and I've lost them more than they've broke. One pair broke after about 5 months use and was able to get a replacement under warranty.

    IEM/Marshmallow headphones just will not stay put in my ears, I think it might be due to the fact that my ears are ridiculously flat to my head, so the canal might be shaped a bit odd.

    [–]batski 0 points1 point ago

    The graphic does indeed recommend those marshmallow earbuds! I'm currently listening to Mumford&Sons on my trusty pair.

    [–]whencanistop 1 point2 points ago

    I stand corrected. I probably have loads of spare marshmallows from when I've only replaced one or had to throw away before replacing any.

    [–]batski 0 points1 point ago

    yooooooo if you have any unused small ear cushions I'd pay you for them! My marshmallow ear cushiony things are falling apart but the electronics still work great, and I don't wanna have to pay $20 to replace the whole thing...

    [–]whencanistop 0 points1 point ago

    We need to start a new sub-reddit for people who have spare parts to odd bits of machinery and electronics that are willing to swap.

    In this case it would probably cost more to send them and I don't know where they are (scattered across the house probably in places that were easy to locate when I put them there, but lost to the sands of time two minutes later).

    [–]batski 0 points1 point ago

    Sadface, ok. I know there's some kind of swap subreddit but I don't remember the url and it was a little daunting.

    [–]GymIn26Minutes 0 points1 point ago

    Here are some that are extremely well built (milled aluminum and shit), and quite reasonably priced. If you manage to destroy those in four months you should not be trusted around any electronics.

    [–]HeyitsClay 0 points1 point ago

    Its more once u hear the difference u never can go back. Some people can't really notice it but for those of us that do u can never take a step back to cheep headphones realm

    [–]plopliar 5 points6 points ago

    Now all I need is a FUCKING HEADSET GUIDE

    [–]RIPnRhyme 15 points16 points ago

    Don't buy headsets. Buy a $3 zalman clip on mic with headphones, much better quality, much cheaper.

    [–]orangeh 2 points3 points ago

    You may be a genius. I will have to spend some money to confirm this however.

    [–]RIPnRhyme 8 points9 points ago

    Read some reviews, I don't think you will be disappointed. "Gaming" headsets are sort of a ripoff, you are likely to get better quality when a company is focusing on each aspect individually.

    [–]orangeh 0 points1 point ago

    I saw the zalman on amazon and its omni directional. Know of any that would be good to use in a loud environment?

    [–]RIPnRhyme 2 points3 points ago

    I doubt it would be good in a loud environment as it has no noise cancelling or anything of the sort whatsoever. That being said there are standing desk mics that do.

    I've never used this one, it's just what came up on google with a quick search. labtech desk mic $10, noise cancelling

    [–]orangeh 1 point2 points ago

    standing desk mic wouldnt be ideal for gaming. Hmm thanks for the info. I'll have to look around for a mic separate from the headphones for future purchases. It seems a gaming headset might be a necessity if you have any kind of background noise though.

    [–]SeikanHikou 3 points4 points ago

    http://hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1578093

    tl;dr: if you have to deal with background noise, adjust the settings so that whatever mic you use is less sensitive (since it's going to be near your mouth anyways), and then boost those levels.

    When it comes to using headphones and a microphone, the headphones should take priority.

    [–]RIPnRhyme 3 points4 points ago

    Why wouldn't it be ideal for gaming? Any sort of clip on mic or desk mic is going to have the same quality that is stuck to a headset, if not better.

    [–]Deuce23 0 points1 point ago

    I'm also looking for a headset to replace my desk mic for gaming, because it's getting annoying having to hunch over the mic to speak clearly enough. I want to lean back in my chair... a clip-on sounds like a good idea, I'll have to look into some better models with noise canceling I guess.

    [–]RIPnRhyme 1 point2 points ago

    I just ordered the Samson SR850's last night from bestbuy. They are a $60.. but bestbuy has them on sale for $18 for some reason. They outperform anything less than $150 according to what the reviews say, I'm excited to see what I got. I use the zalman mic, and my friends can hear my dog bark or whatever, but I've never had any complaints about things like static, or fans.. etc. Good luck finding something you like though, it's all about personal preference.

    [–]kickm3 1 point2 points ago

    Also you might hear the pounding on the keyboard.

    [–]Boshaft 0 points1 point ago

    With a mix close to your mouth, you can fine time the sensitivity to the point that you can put Ventrilo on voice activation. It's a lot harder not to broadcast background noise if the mic is 2-3 feet away.

    [–]FiveDragons 1 point2 points ago

    Maybe something like this?

    [–]Deuce23 0 points1 point ago

    At first I was like "sweet, exactly what I wanted" but then I saw it's still not released :( Isn't a magnet likely to interfere with the sound though?

    [–]SeikanHikou 4 points5 points ago

    When it comes to "gaming headsets", you're paying for the fact that they are for "gaming", and not for anything important to you, like sound quality. RIPnRhyme is dead on, in that you will find better value and performance by getting a good set of headphones and a cheap clip on mic.

    [–]Namika 4 points5 points ago

    My audiophile friend told me never to spend more than $100 on a gaming headset. It's just throwing your money away since gaming headsets can never compare to premium headphones in terms of sound quality since they focus more on better directional sound and higher levels of bass. I asked my friend that ok, if I had 100 to spend on a headset, what should I buy. He told me I had essentially 3 options.

    1) Buy a cheap $15 headset, then spend the other $85 on a nice pair of headphones. Only use the headset when you actively need the mic, otherwise use the headphones.

    2) Spend all $100 on a nice pair of headphones. Then just put one of those $1 USB mics on your desk and use that instead of buying an actual headset. People on the receiving end will still hear you fine, and this was you can use your good headphones all the time instead of switching back and forth with a cheap headset

    3) If you really want a good headset, don't spend more than $100 and realize it won't be as good as headphones of the same price. Realize even the best professional gamers that rely on their equipment in $500,000 tournaments don't use headsets that cost more than $100. A pair of Siberia V2s costs under $90 and that's what most pro's end up using. Seeing some non-professional gamer spend >$200 on a headset is facepalm worthy.

    [–]plopliar 0 points1 point ago

    Don't worry I couldn't and wouldn't spend that kind of money on headsets. The one I'm currently using is a $15 logitech one, and works fine, but since I beat it up the cable is broken and the sounds cuts in and out which is aggravating.

    I don't even want a good sounding headset, as long as it works and is durable. I'm not an audiophile and don't care much about sound quality. I would also be totally fine with using my current headphones and just buying a $1 mic like you suggested.

    [–]tinklepee 0 points1 point ago

    The Sennheiser PC360 is a >$200 headset that's worth the money.

    [–]GophaKyorselv 4 points5 points ago

    Do Sennheiser HD800's make you orgasm money or something?

    [–]ChrisCipher 5 points6 points ago

    that's exactly what they do

    [–]rotorworx 0 points1 point ago

    I don't have 800s, but my Sennheisers are pretty damn awesome.

    [–]vt_pete 2 points3 points ago

    I have the koss ones pictured, they are great for a lightweight portable, way better than buds.

    [–]Pedantic_Redditor 0 points1 point ago

    Shure SRH 440 are the best bang for your buck if you want to spend $100

    [–]Polymira 2 points3 points ago

    For amazing sounding full size headphones for dirt cheap, the Monoprice house brand headphones are fantastic.

    [–]kayabwmn 0 points1 point ago

    I got a pair of beyerdynamic dt 990 pro's for like, 200 bucks on amazon. I'd recommend them to anyone who wants to make music, or the non-pro version if you just want to listen.

    [–]IS_THIS_ONE_TAKEN 0 points1 point ago

    The "pro" has nothing to do with making vs listening... In fact, the pro is actually arguably less accurate and thus not as good for music production.

    [–]kayabwmn 0 points1 point ago

    sources?

    [–]BCSteve 2 points3 points ago

    The image might be old, but the Audio-Technica ATH-M50's are still amazing headphones, and they're (comparatively) cheap, too.

    [–]bluebomber1815 0 points1 point ago

    Right on, these headphones are an incredible value and sound amazing

    [–]Holiace 3 points4 points ago

    This guide is OLD.

    [–]ballsdeep_inlove 0 points1 point ago

    Saving this for when I got cash :D

    [–]jbatch0311 0 points1 point ago

    I've been waiting a while for the FA-011's to come back at decent prices. I've heard some really good things about them.

    [–]RIPnRhyme 1 point2 points ago

    I just bought a pair of these last night, I think it might be a mistake that they are this cheap.

    Samson - SR850's

    Here is a different page, the last one error's

    They are from bestbuy.com

    [–]eltocliousus 0 points1 point ago

    SR850s are good, not great but good for the price, perfectly well purchased item.

    [–]Yinz_Gahn_Dahntahn 0 points1 point ago

    If you're in the market for over the ear headphones <$100; check out the Noontec Zoro's.

    InnerFidelity Review

    Cnet Review

    And I can personally vouch that they rule. I love mine.

    [–]MerrMan 0 points1 point ago

    I got some lower end custom IEMs made a little over two years ago. Some of the best money I have ever spent.

    [–]Seaskimmer 0 points1 point ago

    All about the JH16's... but seriously, it surprises me how many people think Monster is the headphone brand in existence.

    [–]tian2992 1 point2 points ago

    /r/headphones

    [–]bluesoul 1 point2 points ago

    No love for the Sennheiser HD25-1 II, eh?

    [–]mutualconfusion 0 points1 point ago

    Seriously. I looked up and down this list looking for them, and they were nowhere to be found. These are easily the best portable/on-ear cans I've ever used. Perfect from everything to DJing to classical.

    [–]bluesoul 0 points1 point ago

    Totally agree. I don't really considered myself to have "listened" to an album/song until I hear it on the HD25s.

    [–]Cloo159 0 points1 point ago

    I just sent this to my dad and never read the title on the page. oh god why.

    [–]rm249 0 points1 point ago

    Jlab Jbud J3's are great. By far the best pair of in-ear headphones I've ever owned.

    [–]kidblast 0 points1 point ago

    Phonaks are excellent and good value. Swiss company that mainly builds hearing aids.

    [–]shriek 0 points1 point ago

    Glad that I found atleast one fellow Phonak user. Hi!!

    [–]tstevensonrocks 1 point2 points ago

    I use Sol Republic Tracks HD and I've never looked back. These are the best headphones I've used for only $130. Everything is super clear, it's well balanced and the tone is phenomenal.

    [–]xolieo 0 points1 point ago

    How about the new apple headphones?

    [–]Eist 1 point2 points ago

    There are better guides out there, also why is it a "Fucking Headphone Guide"? How racy it is using swear words. I feel like I'm in primary school again.

    [–]bink_uk 0 points1 point ago

    No mention of Scosche (maker of the best earbuds I've ever owned)? Nah, I'm good thanks.

    Grado headphones are fucking amazing though, I give them that.

    [–]LouTheCop -1 points0 points ago

    i get that the dude thinks bose is overpriced, but why wouldn't he at least include their headphones in the "money to burn" category? they're still fantastic sound quality, even if they're too expensive.

    [–]kokowam 0 points1 point ago

    I'm cheap as fuck so I always just look up this thread whenever I need any IEMs.

    [–]stupidrobots 0 points1 point ago

    Coby Jammerz Platinum are WAY better than JVC Gummies and can be had for under 10 bucks.

    [–]unicornfarmer 0 points1 point ago

    Just bought a pair of Polk's UltraFocus 8000. While they're ANC, which requires two AA batteries and doesn't block out all noises (voices are an issue), I've been quite pleased. But YMMV

    [–]Gian_Doe 0 points1 point ago

    This might be an unpopular request but here it goes.

    I want earbuds with the deepest bass there is. Most of the fancy ones people have recommended (Kliptch, Shure, etc) for me are probably dynamically superior but they just don't have that bass so the type of music I listen to sounds hollow.

    Spare me the comments about how you can't get great bass on in ear design, I'm aware. Within the constraints of that design what's the best because I need to be able to roll them up and throw them in my pocket. So far I have the new bose designed ones because they're comfortable and have pretty good bass, sound isn't great though but they are really fucking comfortable which helps on long wearing days in NYC.

    It can be any type of ear bud, in ear, whatever, as long as I can roll them up and fit in my pocket with my phone without a big bulge.

    [–]prochobo -2 points-1 points ago

    Beats man, get some beats. You’ll feel the kind of bass that resonates deep in your chest when you play your music and hear the music just as if you were in the studio.

    EDIT: Whoosh

    [–]Gian_Doe 0 points1 point ago

    I see guys with those on the subway and they don't look like they secure in the ear really well like my bose ones. Do you have familiarity with running in them or being active? With the ear shape thing the bose ones are difficult to dislodge.

    [–]dmoreholt 3 points4 points ago

    Don't get beats, they're notorious among people that know headphones for being a ripoff, even if you're looking for a strong bass response. If you want something to be active I especially don't know why this guy would suggest beats. I have Etymotic Er-4Ps and they're incredible (he has them on the black/purple chart in the bottom right corner). But they're the kind of headphones that deliver the exact sound that the producers intended, so they're not flooded with bass, just incredibly clear.

    [–]TheWalrusCometh 0 points1 point ago

    Upvote for the ER-4Ps. I've owned a pair since the early 2000s and have been very happy with them. The filters are easily and cheaply replaced, the various ear-gear can conform to anyone ear, and if you buy the Ps you can get a P-to-S transition cable if your device has the amperage to drive the S.

    [–]dmoreholt 0 points1 point ago

    Yeah, they're really well designed and the isolation is impeccable. I didn't know about the transition cable, I'm actually working on beefing up my vinyl setup. Do you think that getting the transition cable is a viable alternative to getting another pair of headphones for the receiver? Sound quality is very important.

    [–]TheWalrusCometh 0 points1 point ago

    Judge for yourself - http://www.headphone.com/accessories/etymotic-er-4p-to-er-4s-adapter.php

    [–]dmoreholt 0 points1 point ago

    Awesome thanks!

    [–]Gian_Doe 0 points1 point ago

    Thing is I want flooded with bass. I want the deepest bass available in the smallest package available. I don't care if it sacrifices sound quality elsewhere. An unpopular opinion I'm sure, but I never get this question answered. What would have the best low bass response available in something I can roll up and stick in my pocket? Clear isn't important to me. I've tried Ety's and they don't have enough bass for my liking.

    [–]dmoreholt 0 points1 point ago

    I can't help you ... and I really don't understand why you would want that, but whatever, good luck!

    [–]Gian_Doe 0 points1 point ago

    I listen to a lot of drum and bass and I'm constantly in the city and can't stand lugging around over the ear headphones. They need to be able to go in my pocket and disappear and have the most bass available. Those are my only two criteria.

    [–]dmoreholt 0 points1 point ago

    Ahh ok, yeah I don't know what to recommend. I will say that you should be able to find some high bass response in ear headphones though, but I can't tell you where to start

    [–]dmoreholt 0 points1 point ago

    Those things are ripoffs. I laugh every time I see someone wearing them because you can get something sooo much nicer with such a clearer sound for much less and still get all that bass response.

    [–]Gian_Doe 0 points1 point ago

    I saw your woosh edit so I'm replying again to clarify. The reason I took your recommendation seriously is because like I said in my original post I'm not looking for literally the best headphones. I would sacrifice audio quality for bass power. I want the deepest bass possible in the smallest package regardless of what the other ranges are like. It's an unpopular request no doubt, but that's my request nonetheless. I don't watch TV so wasn't familiar with the catchphrase joke, never seen a beats commercial in my life but a bit of googling cleared up the woosh.

    [–]dmoreholt 0 points1 point ago

    Yeah ... sarcasm doesn't work well in writing

    [–]HydrogenxPi 0 points1 point ago

    Fucking nothing beats Grados.

    Nothing.

    [–]CoughingZombie 0 points1 point ago

    Etymotics are the best sounding plugs ive ever heard but i wont buy them again. I don't like that the inserts get really disgusting and need replacing...

    [–]CoughingZombie 0 points1 point ago

    Grados are as amazing as everyone says but what isn't amazing is that everyone around you can hear (loudly) what you're listening to.

    [–]fair_in_height 0 points1 point ago

    Can anyone help with selecting good workout headphones? I'm assuming IEM's are the best, but I find it hard to find ones that stay in my ears (especially my left ear for some reason)

    [–]Col_Monstrosity 0 points1 point ago

    Some words this article is lacking: ohm, frequency response, decibels. Know those words, and you'll find good headphones.

    [–]aaipod 1 point2 points ago

    Too little Shure imo

    [–]Thrice_Eye 0 points1 point ago

    Not one mention of Nuforce. I'm disappointed.

    I have some Nuforce ne-700x's (http://www.nuforce.com/hp/products/ne700mx/index.php) iem's and they are the best sounding in-ear you can find for under $70. Not to mention they have fantastic customer service.

    [–]PsyChuan -1 points0 points ago

    I've never owned Skullcandy Headphones, only borrowed them, and dear god, for the same price as my Senn HD215's they're fucking atrocious. The ONLY reason to buy Skullcandy Headphones is if you're the kind of person who cares about #SWAG.

    And if you are then you're terrible and I hate you.

    [–]MineTorA 0 points1 point ago

    Have a pair of Grado Sr-60s... Great sound but I really miss my circumaural headphones... Eventually I'll have money to replace them.

    [–]dmoreholt 0 points1 point ago

    I own a pair of ER-4Ps and they're incredible. I often feel like I'm completely rediscovering whatever piece of music I'm listening to when I've got them in.

    [–]ShockerOnShockStreet 1 point2 points ago

    Skullcandy shit is cheap as hell, I don't see why they get grouped in with ripoff artists like Monster or Bose. They're pretty open with the fact that their stuff is supposed to look cool and be cheap so you can wear them doing xxxtreme sports and not give a fuck if they break. Hence them sponsoring snowboarders and skateboarders. A friend of mine was sponsored by them and only wore Icons and broke 2 pairs a season.

    [–]timrbrady 0 points1 point ago

    I ordered some Monoprice IEMs for about $8 and they sound as good asn the ~$80 pair I carelessly slammed in my car door last year.

    [–]shaurz 0 points1 point ago

    That is a very confusing image.

    [–]EndThisGame 0 points1 point ago

    /r/ing the one that shows the mice with that one good laser technology

    [–]wzmb 0 points1 point ago

    commenting to save.... also upvotes around

    [–]Andaroodle 0 points1 point ago

    I went to an electronics store to try out all of the headphones and the Beats sounded the best...am I crazy?

    [–]azzazzin123 0 points1 point ago

    AKG 701 here with Heed Canamp, IT IS AMAZING!!!!!! and I know I will not have to replace this setup for a long time.

    [–]superchibisan2 0 points1 point ago

    All of the posts are missing over half of the headphone choices. Do more research and don't use these lists! Good starting points though!

    [–]stretch_nuts 0 points1 point ago

    i dont know who the hell these people are, ive never spent over $30 on a pair of headphones...they get lost, stepped on, stolen, left somewhere..so easy to lose them.

    [–]Schmackadoodle 0 points1 point ago

    If you want a pair of high-quality, relatively low-cost headphones or earbuds that actually look good, check this out: http://www.jays.se/

    I use the a-Jays One+, they're awesome and only cost 399 kr which in the US would probably be $39.99. :)

    [–]Le_Petit_Lapin 0 points1 point ago

    I'm just chipping in that I use SoundMagic PL11's because my dog is a right little bastard for eating headphones.

    They're excellent acoustically, and they're cheap, which is great when you dog ruins another pair.

    Don't bother with any of the other shit you can buy for £20. Get these.

    [–]500cats 0 points1 point ago

    Take off the Grado SR125s, the 225is are much better. The 125s are kind of the awkward child between the sweet spot that is the SR225is and the deal of the SR60/SR80.

    [–]Amarowar 0 points1 point ago

    Kinda mad that v-modas not there.

    [–]al3xtec 0 points1 point ago

    Thanks!

    [–]Chernab0g -4 points-3 points ago

    Wtf why isn't Dr. Dre's Beats up there? /s

    EDIT: THE /s IS SARCASM

    [–]Pedantic_Redditor 0 points1 point ago

    so many reasons

    [–]Chernab0g -2 points-1 points ago

    ......I was being sarcastic hence the /s

    [–]Goredby21 3 points4 points ago

    Came for the Dre Beats are literally Hitler. Am not disappointed.

    [–]DrBubbles 1 point2 points ago

    I really can't tell you how happy I was to not see Beats on there.

    [–]Chernab0g -5 points-4 points ago

    The /s is for SARCASM. Beats are really shitty headphones.

    [–]DrBubbles 1 point2 points ago

    Right, I got that. I was agreeing with you. Calm down. They are over priced garbage.

    [–]squirtis 0 points1 point ago

    cuz they're terrible for their price.

    [–]Chernab0g -4 points-3 points ago

    The /s is for sarcasm. I was joking. Beats are pure shit.

    [–]squirtis -1 points0 points ago

    oh, lol. call me a noob then

    [–]Chernab0g -1 points0 points ago

    No I won't do that. Just stop downvote brigading me

    [–]squirtis -1 points0 points ago

    lol, i didn't downvote anyone

    [–]YouHaveShitTaste 0 points1 point ago

    This guide was shit when it was created, it's even worse now. Never post this image again, anywhere.

    [–]dachusa -3 points-2 points ago

    I used to agree with the general statement of Skullcandy is crap, but then I decided to buy a pair because I found it cheap on amazon and didn't want any expensive ones in my office.

    I originally had some Skullcandy Hesh headphones, which were kinda crappy. They sounded ok, but they hurt to wear for too long because of poor shape. Then they decided to break, so I sent them into Skullcandy for waranty.

    Skullcandy gave me credit to their site, so I got a set of Skullcandy G.I. headphones. I have had these for about a year now and they are pretty good. Overall my Skullcandy G.I. headphones have been good, the sound isn't anything amazing, but it is good. They don't hurt to wear for extended periods of time.

    I'm won't recommend Skullcandy headphones for a professional sound, but they are consumer quality sound and the company is good about their customer service. If you want to buy Skullcandy headphones I would recommend getting them from their ebay store or amazon, don't pay full price.

    TLDR; Not all Skullcandy is crap. Some is worth purchasing.

    Edit: Not sure why this is being downvoted. Guess some people need to review reddiquette.

    Please don't: Downvote opinions just because you disagree with them. The down arrow is for comments that add little or nothing to the discussion.

    [–]dhanson94 0 points1 point ago

    I don't know I've had some SC 50/50's for about 6 months and they are wonderful.

    [–]soggit -4 points-3 points ago

    ATH 700 are bad

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