Accessories Included: Black Carrying pouch (faux leather), silver-plated 1/4″ adapter.
Amp needed: No.
Summary
What list is complete without the venerable MDR-7506; a headphone that’s been around since 1991 and still gets rave reviews to this day.
These are some of the most time-tested, durable, and reliable headphones on the planet, and will likely always remain a staple in any serious beatmaker’s collection.
They’re built very well, with a compact, lightweight profile and a design that folds up for added portability. The sound is incredible, especially for the price.
If there was ever a headphone that revealed minor details, the 7506 is it. They have a bright character in the treble, and yeah, it can get essy at times, but it’s a small price to pay for such great sound.
Remember: this headphone came out the same year Super Mario World was released for the Super Nintendo.
The cool part about the 7506 is that it also works well as a casual headphone, but I would categorize it as a mixing option first and foremost.
Comfort-wise, they feel very snug on my dome piece but will become slightly fatiguing after a while. Just make sure you take a break every so often.
Things to be aware of
The earcups do tend to peel over time. This is one of the only things I strongly dislike about them. It doesn’t happen immediately, but will over the course of a couple of years.
The earpads may fall off as well. This happened with my MDR-7506 but hasn’t happened with the V6. Something to keep in mind.
Video Discussion
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2/27/19 Update: The 9500 is back up on New Egg for the time being. I’m hoping it makes an official return sometime soon!
12/1/20 Update: 9500 has been back for a while!
I bought a pair in 2017 for around $54 on New Egg. I have always said (even before it was discontinued) that it’s worth way more than that.
I’d value these headphones around $200 and would gladly pay that price for them if I had to buy them again.
Specifications
Type: Open back.
Fit: Circumaural.
Impedance: 32 Ohm.
Frequency Response: 12 – 35,000 Hz.
Sensitivity: 101dB/mW.
Driver size: 50mm.
Material: Plastic, metal, cloth.
Color: black, silver
Cable replaceable/detachable: Yes.
Cable coiled: No.
Cable length:4.92 ft.
Plug style: straight.
Comes with straight cable: Yes.
Ear-pads replaceable: Yes.
Rotating ear-cups: Rotation inward slightly.
Headband Padding: Yes, cloth.
Headband Style: Traditional mechanism. Numbered with a small window for added convenience.
Foldable: No.
Weight: 0.65 lbs.
Accessories Included: Detachable chord.
Amp needed: No.
Summary
The SHP9500 is one of those headphones that everyone should try at least once. For a product well south of $100, these have near impeccable resolution and compete with products way out of their price range.
What continues to impress me over the years is the build quality. They haven’t so much as flinched; feeling incredibly sturdy and donning those wide and shiny metal headband adjustments.
Speaking of the headband, instead of guessing if both sides match up, the 9500 is numbered 1-6, with a small circular window on each side that you can easily stop at to get an accurate fit.
I lent these out to Metal571 to see what he thought, and I would agree and disagree with him.
He claims the Soundstage isn’t as wide as people claim, but I still think the overall image is fairly expansive and does immerse you quite well in the music.
They’re not going to provide that true 3D effect by any stretch (what headphone truly does?), but there is some really nice separation going on and the headphones are fantastic for gaming.
As far as the bass, the trend here continues: it’s fairly lean and light, but still runs deep even though it technically rolls off in the sub-regions.
This may seem like an oxymoron, but I’ve actually been able to hear individual sub-notes with the 9500 because the headphones don’t artificially try and boost those areas.
In other words, you’re hearing the notes rather than simply feeling them. A huge distinction and an absolute joy to listen to.
The SHP9500 is like a Mr. Clean type of sound. There’s sparkle, but it’s not overdone or harsh. The mid-range is definitely forward, as instruments and vocals really come to life.
It’s a bit frightening that these provide an eerily similar sound to headphones costing hundreds.
It’s also nice to be able to turn them up without having to worry about sibilance. To be honest, I kind of prefer these over an HD600, and I never thought I would say that.
More on all that in the video review and the comments on YouTube. 🙂
Things to be aware of
They have a somewhat odd fit at first. When you put them on initially, you’ll be a little taken aback. “There’s no rhyme or reason to this at all. What have I done? Why did I buy these?” Just stay calm and don’t be alarmed. Lol. After a while, you’ll get used to the fit and it will blow your socks off.
Your ears will touch the drivers. This seems to be a commonality with entry-level open backs. It’s not really a big deal to me, but it might bother you.
Oh man, these babies just came out of nowhere one day and blessed me greatly. Besides the venerable AKG K240, I can think of very few other headphones that deliver so mightily for the price.
Like the headphones just mentioned, I believe these to be in that same category of best price-to-performance as they compete with headphones way out of the price range. Like, far out, man.
The sound signature is incredibly detailed, airy, and open.
You’ll start to notice minor details that truly make the song come together. In fact, I’ve heard things with the 850 that I haven’t heard with any other headphones.
It’s truly remarkable.
The bass, while leaner, is extremely articulate and enjoyable. It knows its place for sure, and the sound just has this ability to make you smile with delight.
Things to be aware of
They do tend to be a bit “essy” or hissy at times, but it’s not a deal-breaker.
They are very lightweight, and the earcups are very shallow like the 240s.
My Video Review
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The K240 still remains relevant over 30 years later.
Specifications
Type: Semi-open.
Fit: Circumaural.
Impedance: 55 Ohm.
Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 25 kHz.
Sensitivity: 91dB/mW.
Driver size: 30mm.
Material: Plastic, faux leather.
Color: black, gold.
Cable replaceable/detachable: Yes.
Cable coiled: No.
Cable length:9.8 ft.
Plug style: straight.
Comes with straight cable: Yes.
Ear-pads replaceable: Yes.
Rotating ear-cups: No.
Headband Padding: No.
Headband Style: Hammock, self-adjusting.
Foldable: No.
Weight: 8.5 oz.
Accessories Included: gold plated 1/4″ adapter.
Amp needed: Highly recommended.
Summary
Upon first listening, the AKG K240s are a bit uninspiring and dull.
It’s only after spending some time with them that you really start to appreciate their open Soundstage and detailed signature.
This is a headphone that simply won’t sound as good out of your phone or laptop.
I would highly recommend using at least an audio interface with these, preferably something like the Universal Audio Volt 2. I would also advise you to keep these in the studio at all times.
Like the 850, the bass on the 240 may leave you desiring more. If those other bass responses were lean, this is bordering on anorexia.
With that said, the bass is very textured and nuanced and runs pretty deep without all the impact. The treble isn’t recessed nor is it too bright.
There is a wonderful sparkle to certain tracks, but unlike the 850, it doesn’t get out of line.
Of course, the mid-range is the highlight of these headphones.
Vocals and instruments come to life on a level you wouldn’t believe. Go ahead, fire up some Motown, but don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Out of all of the headphones I’ve ever listened to, (130+) the K240 certainly has some of the best resolution you’ll ever experience – at this price range, anyway.
Even so, I’d pit this against a LOT of more expensive headphones and challenge you to tell me the resolution isn’t right there.
*Hank Hill voice initiated*
Say what you will about AKG, but daggum they know how to tune their headphones I’ll tell you hwat.
Things to be aware of
The build of the 240s is rather flimsy. I wouldn’t feel that comfortable dropping these or generally being rough with them. Proceed with caution. They really should never leave your studio. That said, my mom’s husband recently gifted me a K240M 600 Ohm from about 1910 and it’s still kicking like an angry elephant.
The earcups, like the 850s, are round enough, but not deep enough. Your ears will likely touch the drivers.
Video Comparison with the 850
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The CAL has officially replaced the 40x and its long-held position in the #3 spot in Budget Kings.
I believe this to be because the CAL sounds infinitely smoother, more musical, and more neutral than the sometimes overly flamboyant (and pretty bad) sound of the 40x.
The CAL does everything better and sounds more enjoyable from a casual, relaxation standpoint.
It also improves on 2 things the 40x has issues with: the mid-bass and treble.
The 40x’s treble could get out of line and essy at times, with a metallic character that didn’t sit well with me.
CAL’s treble is much better and more relaxed.
The mid-bass on the 40x could also become overdone like your mom’s meatloaf. It had just a bit too much energy whereas the CAL’s is smoother and more natural sounding.
Things to be aware of
1. Build on the CAL is rather flimsy.
My Video Review!
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Accessories Included: 1/4″ adapter, Box, extra cable.
Amp needed: No.
Summary
The Status Audio CB-1’s best feature is Soundstage. Point blank.
These do tend to open up quite a bit, which is surprising considering they are closed-back headphones.
The deep ear cups and their 50mm drivers have a lot to do with this I think, and the comfort level is phenomenal.
This makes them a relatively easy recommendation, but they aren’t without their flaws.
In fact, I’m fully convinced that these would be the best budget headphones of all time if not for some glaring issues.
The detail retrieval and Soundstage are that good.
It’s shocking how much these pick up. It’s just that the signature is too raspy and rough around the edges, which is of course why they’re budget cans.
Things to be aware of
The mid-range does have a tendency of sounding sucked out in some regards, with the music kind of taking a back seat and appearing somewhat distant.
I perceive some bloat in the mid-bass, and the bass as a whole can sound kind of flabby at times.
Treble is good overall but can become a little too metallic with certain songs.
Overall, the sound sometimes has this overly wispy, feathery light character that can make it sound a bit thin.
Video Comparison to the 40x
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Amp needed: No, but the BTR3K pictured above is a perfect pair!
Summary
I snagged a pair of KPH30i for about $20 after hearing amazing things about them.
I was not disappointed.
In fact, it’s borderline embarrassing how good these are in relation to headphones costing hundreds of dollars.
In other words, all of the hype surrounding them is most certainly warranted.
The first thing that jumps out at you is how natural they sound. No one frequency overpowers the other.
The bass, mid-range, and treble are all done perfectly. There’s not one single thing I could ever complain about, and frankly, it’s really astonishing.
When I go back into the recesses of my mind and think about how many headphones I’ve demoed, I can nearly always find something to complain about with the sound.
Either the treble is too bright, the mids recessed (or a bit too forward as is the case with the Senny HD600s), the bass either rolls off too much or there’s too much mid-bass, etc.
Koss has yet to update the design, and I’m glad. I love how nerdy they are.
Not only that but why change something when it’s been working for so long?
Comfort is good for extended periods, as they are extremely light and rest on your head quite well.
The “Comfort Zone” is a spring-loaded mechanism that allows you to adjust how tight they sit, and won’t remain in position after the headphones are taken off.
This could prove to be somewhat irritating, however.
The build is very impressive though, especially since they’re light as a feather. You also get a lifetime warranty, so don’t fret!
The sound is crisp and clean overall, with a bass that seomtimes sounds a bit too mid-bass happy. The good news is that Koss opted for a somewhat subtle rise vs. the dreaded BUMP that most consumer headphones fall victim to.
The mid-range is very present, lively, and well-balanced, but may be slightly overshadowed by the bass.
The treble is crisp as well, though sometimes can sound a bit muffled.
Overall it’s a warm, fun signature, without any high-end harshness or fatigue.
Things to be aware of
Mid-bass.
These are ’80s headphones designed for ’80s music and it’s clearly heard. Mid-bass for the most part sounds pretty good, but it can be a bit too much at times depending on the track.
Headband Adjustment
Though the headband adjustment mechanism is very effective, there is a tendency for your hair to catch it. THAT is very 90’s, man.
Since I’m an 80’s baby, I remember this sort of thing happening with cheaper sets; you know, the ones you’d find in your local drugstore.
Warranty
The lifetime warranty is cool, but you may have to pay Koss to ship them back should you have any issues.
The Comfort Zone feature, while a good idea, doesn’t always work the way it should. The adjustment tends to change without your consent.
Mod
To further enhance the treble and make it come alive, employ the “quarter mod.”
This is a modification in which you take off the foam pads, and place a quarter in the center of them. Then cut around it with a sharp knife and put them back on. This will allow the high-end to come through a lot better.
Headband Style: Traditional, but with a slightly different look.
Foldable: No.
Weight: 0.75 lbs.
Accessories Included: 1/4″ adapter.
Amp needed: No.
Summary
Yes, I dog Grado a lot but the 60e is a fine headphone in a lot of ways.
The overall resolution here is top notch, and great for anything rock, metal, or guitar-related as you’ll hear with the intricacy and small nuances you undoubtedly missed before in other headphones.
The trend is similar to many of the headphones we’ve gone over thus far. Nuance, subtlety, detail, clarity.
Things to be aware of
Mid-range issues around 2kHz.
It’s there, and it’s obnoxious for sure. This is one of the main reasons why I always put the 60e near the bottom of any “best of” lists. It’s good but very flawed.
Build Quality
As good as these headphones are, the build is lacking.
I didn’t have any issues, but I could see how over time they might break down if you tend to abuse your gear a lot. Still, I think the risk-to-reward ratio is worth it.
Comfort
Comfort is pretty good, but you will find yourself adjusting them.
The On-ear cups are prone to hurt your ears after a while, but all in all these headphones are worth the price of admission because they’re cheap and pretty good.
Cord
I don’t like the cord and find it much too bulky for a headphone of this weight. What were they thinking?
The headphone is like a feather yet there’s this girthy cable pulling the cans in all directions.
Stu is determined to help you make sound decisions, and strives to deliver the best and most in depth content on the internet! In his spare time, he likes to fish, paint, play guitar, pray, rap, make beats, take photos, record videos, graphic design, and more. His sense of humour, coupled with a knack for excellence and strict attention to detail are what allow him to stand out in an crowded industry.
Hmm.. First thought was the Superlux HD330 that I just reviewed. Excellent Soundstage for Gaming and very good on the go although they don’t fold up or anything. They are semi-open but have a nice sound signature. Good bass. Treble is a tad metallic.
The CB-1’s are also great for Gaming as their Soundstage is probably their overall best quality. They do fold up similar to an M50x so that could be an option.
Check out the HD330 and get back to me if you think that would be feasible. I don’t want to overwhelm you with a bunch of options.
Thanks Stuart! The HD330 don’t look bad. Right now I found a used pair of M50x’s for $70 would you go with those or the Audio Technica ATH-AD900X if they were the same price? I read some of your gaming headphones article and it is inline with what I’ve been thinking in terms of open back or closed.
M50x isn’t going to be that great for Gaming although I remember the Soundstage being pretty good for a closed back. I got some nice out of my head moments back in 2013 but that was with the original M50. Still I wouldn’t rely on that for Gaming. It’s tough because it’s a great headphone for everything else.
The 900x is probably the best overall but just as a forewarning: The bass is kind of lean (which is what makes it a great Gaming headphone actually). You’re able to hear EVERYTHING.
If it was me I’d probably go with the 900x since it’s also very good as a casual/easy listening can. The only thing is that it leaks sound so you may bother peeps on the go. I don’t know. This is tough! 900x is a pretty flat overall signature with quite a bit of bass roll off. Very revealing and detailed though.
Regarding the Sony MDR V6 eventual peeling of the ear pads, replace them with velour ear cushions. They should fit the V6 perfectly and the velour ear pads are even more comfortable than the original Sony ear pads. Furthermore, they have no effect on the sound of the V6.
Hey man! Can you link the exact ones you’re referring to? I would love to try them on my V6 even though the pads are still okay (I don’t use them everyday). Please let me know!!
Hey man! Yeah I think so. The headphones sound signatures are completely opposite. The Alpha’s have a dip at 5k which negatively affects vocal and instrument articulation, while the K240’s actually rise at that point. It’s what makes them sound so lifelike and detailed, actually. The treble on the Alpha’s is boosted while the K240’s is more subdued. I think it works better over longer listening sessions because you’ll never really feel fatigued by it. Sometimes it can seem like they’re lacking a bit of energy though. Bass is also more rolled off on the 240, which will likely help in a gaming environment to be sure.
I’ve owned a pair of K240S’s and K240M’s (600 Ohm) and loved both. Don’t know why I sold the S (it was back in 2016), but the M version I bought from eBay and the guy failed to mention the slight buzz in the left ear. So I sold them. I’d like to have a perfect pair in the future. Right now I’m running the K702 with a K5 Pro for console gaming and also love it.
Overall, you’re getting a more even response out of the 240 but do be aware that it is a pretty ruler flat signature. That said, it’s extremely hard to beat as far as detail retrieval, instrument and overall timbre, as well as general resolution. It’s one of those “aha” moments that I just had to smile from ear to ear at.
Lastly, there are no differences in terms of sound signature between the MK I and MK II 240. The MK II comes with an extra set of pads as well as a coiled and straight cable. So yeah, easy decision there to go with the K240 MK II.
Let me know your thoughts!! Do you need a mic with them?
Hi Stu,
Thank you for the very thorough reviews and articles. I have been doing an extensive search of monitors cans for the past weeks, and I have to admit, I have a headache, and no solution, yet!
I live in a country where every set of headphones is 1.5 more expensive! Call me old-school, I thought buying in a shop may be more safe, in case of issues, than sending it back to wherever I ordered it from. And ordering from the US Amazon will cost me almost the same amount when adding shipping and taxes.
Would you recommend buying online?
I am looking for closed back since I want to record music and maybe launch a podcast.. as well, I won’t be able to afford several pairs. From my research, I learned that I would need a flat response, but at this stage, I am a beginner. Which ones would you advise for an all-around use and versatility? I thought of the Sony MDR-7506, it costs 150$ here (what a difference with the 84$!!), so it makes me wonder if I could find better options for the money? In comparison the Audio-Technica Ath-M40X is 140$, the Sennheiser DT 280 pro is 160$, the Sennheiser DT 25 is 180$, … and I also saw the Beyerdynamic DT 240 PRO, which is the cheapest in the list (130$). Actually the latter is the only one that would be really cheaper to order from abroad, since I won’t have to pay tax on it.
I would love to hear your opinion, and of course, if there is any other headphones that I should be looking into?
Hi Stu,
Thank you for the very thorough reviews and articles. You’re very welcome! I have been doing an extensive search of monitors cans for the past weeks, and I have to admit, I have a headache, and no solution, yet!
No worries!
I live in a country where every set of headphones is 1.5 more expensive!
I know right? I talk to folks with this problem often.
Call me old-school, I thought buying in a shop may be more safe, in case of issues, than sending it back to wherever I ordered it from. And ordering from the US Amazon will cost me almost the same amount when adding shipping and taxes.
Would you recommend buying online?
I mostly buy online, yes. Audiophile gear where I live is kind of scarce outside of a couple of stores.
I am looking for closed back since I want to record music and maybe launch a podcast.. as well, I won’t be able to afford several pairs. From my research, I learned that I would need a flat response, but at this stage, I am a beginner. Which ones would you advise for an all-around use and versatility?
I thought of the Sony MDR-7506, it costs 150$ here (what a difference with the 84$!!), so it makes me wonder if I could find better options for the money?
Hmm. Yeah. $150 is a tad high because of the pad issues with extended use, as well as the annoying coiled cable.
In comparison the Audio-Technica Ath-M40X is 140$,
I would not get the 40x for mixing as it’s not flat at all lol
the Sennheiser DT 280 pro is 160$, the Sennheiser DT 25 is 180$, … and I also saw the Beyerdynamic DT 240 PRO, which is the cheapest in the list (130$). Actually the latter is the only one that would be really cheaper to order from abroad, since I won’t have to pay tax on it.
I would love to hear your opinion, and of course, if there is any other headphones that I should be looking into?
Hmm. What about the Status Audio CB-1? Dirt cheap, amazing sound, comfortable, incredibly revealing, sounds like an open back, exemplary Sounstage. You can hear so much with it.
Hi
Great review!
I have the Koss KPH30i which is a great set. Which would you recommend to add to my collection:
-Samson SR850
-AKG 240
-Grado SR60e
-Audio Technica M20X
-Shure STH440
-Superlux HD681 EVO
or should I save my money and buy another Koss when/if this one breaks?
Hey man! I’d probably hold tight. None of those jump out at me as being better but you may like an 850 or 240. The 240 is a very unique type of sound. Check this article out: https://homestudiobasics.com/akg-k240-vs-samson-sr850/
| Official Review: Here!
12 comments
Hey,
I’m looking for some headphones to listen to music with on the go, and also to game with in this price range. Any suggestions?
Hey TJ!
Hmm.. First thought was the Superlux HD330 that I just reviewed. Excellent Soundstage for Gaming and very good on the go although they don’t fold up or anything. They are semi-open but have a nice sound signature. Good bass. Treble is a tad metallic.
The CB-1’s are also great for Gaming as their Soundstage is probably their overall best quality. They do fold up similar to an M50x so that could be an option.
Check out the HD330 and get back to me if you think that would be feasible. I don’t want to overwhelm you with a bunch of options.
I will also link you to my article on The Best Headphones for Gaming. Perhaps we could find something there as well. 🙂
Thanks Stuart! The HD330 don’t look bad. Right now I found a used pair of M50x’s for $70 would you go with those or the Audio Technica ATH-AD900X if they were the same price? I read some of your gaming headphones article and it is inline with what I’ve been thinking in terms of open back or closed.
Thanks for the sub man!
M50x isn’t going to be that great for Gaming although I remember the Soundstage being pretty good for a closed back. I got some nice out of my head moments back in 2013 but that was with the original M50. Still I wouldn’t rely on that for Gaming. It’s tough because it’s a great headphone for everything else.
The 900x is probably the best overall but just as a forewarning: The bass is kind of lean (which is what makes it a great Gaming headphone actually). You’re able to hear EVERYTHING.
If it was me I’d probably go with the 900x since it’s also very good as a casual/easy listening can. The only thing is that it leaks sound so you may bother peeps on the go. I don’t know. This is tough! 900x is a pretty flat overall signature with quite a bit of bass roll off. Very revealing and detailed though.
What kind of genres are you into?
Regarding the Sony MDR V6 eventual peeling of the ear pads, replace them with velour ear cushions. They should fit the V6 perfectly and the velour ear pads are even more comfortable than the original Sony ear pads. Furthermore, they have no effect on the sound of the V6.
Hey man! Can you link the exact ones you’re referring to? I would love to try them on my V6 even though the pads are still okay (I don’t use them everyday). Please let me know!!
Hi,
Will the AKG k240 mkII be a upgrade from my Hyperx Cloud Alphas?
Hey man! Yeah I think so. The headphones sound signatures are completely opposite. The Alpha’s have a dip at 5k which negatively affects vocal and instrument articulation, while the K240’s actually rise at that point. It’s what makes them sound so lifelike and detailed, actually. The treble on the Alpha’s is boosted while the K240’s is more subdued. I think it works better over longer listening sessions because you’ll never really feel fatigued by it. Sometimes it can seem like they’re lacking a bit of energy though. Bass is also more rolled off on the 240, which will likely help in a gaming environment to be sure.
I’ve owned a pair of K240S’s and K240M’s (600 Ohm) and loved both. Don’t know why I sold the S (it was back in 2016), but the M version I bought from eBay and the guy failed to mention the slight buzz in the left ear. So I sold them. I’d like to have a perfect pair in the future. Right now I’m running the K702 with a K5 Pro for console gaming and also love it.
Overall, you’re getting a more even response out of the 240 but do be aware that it is a pretty ruler flat signature. That said, it’s extremely hard to beat as far as detail retrieval, instrument and overall timbre, as well as general resolution. It’s one of those “aha” moments that I just had to smile from ear to ear at.
Lastly, there are no differences in terms of sound signature between the MK I and MK II 240. The MK II comes with an extra set of pads as well as a coiled and straight cable. So yeah, easy decision there to go with the K240 MK II.
Let me know your thoughts!! Do you need a mic with them?
Hi Stu,
Thank you for the very thorough reviews and articles. I have been doing an extensive search of monitors cans for the past weeks, and I have to admit, I have a headache, and no solution, yet!
I live in a country where every set of headphones is 1.5 more expensive! Call me old-school, I thought buying in a shop may be more safe, in case of issues, than sending it back to wherever I ordered it from. And ordering from the US Amazon will cost me almost the same amount when adding shipping and taxes.
Would you recommend buying online?
I am looking for closed back since I want to record music and maybe launch a podcast.. as well, I won’t be able to afford several pairs. From my research, I learned that I would need a flat response, but at this stage, I am a beginner. Which ones would you advise for an all-around use and versatility? I thought of the Sony MDR-7506, it costs 150$ here (what a difference with the 84$!!), so it makes me wonder if I could find better options for the money? In comparison the Audio-Technica Ath-M40X is 140$, the Sennheiser DT 280 pro is 160$, the Sennheiser DT 25 is 180$, … and I also saw the Beyerdynamic DT 240 PRO, which is the cheapest in the list (130$). Actually the latter is the only one that would be really cheaper to order from abroad, since I won’t have to pay tax on it.
I would love to hear your opinion, and of course, if there is any other headphones that I should be looking into?
Hey Ethel!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
My replies are in bold/italic
Hi Stu,
Thank you for the very thorough reviews and articles. You’re very welcome! I have been doing an extensive search of monitors cans for the past weeks, and I have to admit, I have a headache, and no solution, yet!
No worries!
I live in a country where every set of headphones is 1.5 more expensive!
I know right? I talk to folks with this problem often.
Call me old-school, I thought buying in a shop may be more safe, in case of issues, than sending it back to wherever I ordered it from. And ordering from the US Amazon will cost me almost the same amount when adding shipping and taxes.
Would you recommend buying online?
I mostly buy online, yes. Audiophile gear where I live is kind of scarce outside of a couple of stores.
I am looking for closed back since I want to record music and maybe launch a podcast.. as well, I won’t be able to afford several pairs. From my research, I learned that I would need a flat response, but at this stage, I am a beginner. Which ones would you advise for an all-around use and versatility?
I thought of the Sony MDR-7506, it costs 150$ here (what a difference with the 84$!!), so it makes me wonder if I could find better options for the money?
Hmm. Yeah. $150 is a tad high because of the pad issues with extended use, as well as the annoying coiled cable.
In comparison the Audio-Technica Ath-M40X is 140$,
I would not get the 40x for mixing as it’s not flat at all lol
the Sennheiser DT 280 pro is 160$, the Sennheiser DT 25 is 180$, … and I also saw the Beyerdynamic DT 240 PRO, which is the cheapest in the list (130$). Actually the latter is the only one that would be really cheaper to order from abroad, since I won’t have to pay tax on it.
I would love to hear your opinion, and of course, if there is any other headphones that I should be looking into?
Hmm. What about the Status Audio CB-1? Dirt cheap, amazing sound, comfortable, incredibly revealing, sounds like an open back, exemplary Sounstage. You can hear so much with it.
Here’s my review!!
Hi
Great review!
I have the Koss KPH30i which is a great set. Which would you recommend to add to my collection:
-Samson SR850
-AKG 240
-Grado SR60e
-Audio Technica M20X
-Shure STH440
-Superlux HD681 EVO
or should I save my money and buy another Koss when/if this one breaks?
Hey man! I’d probably hold tight. None of those jump out at me as being better but you may like an 850 or 240. The 240 is a very unique type of sound. Check this article out: https://homestudiobasics.com/akg-k240-vs-samson-sr850/
I would probably just skip all of those and wait for a true upgrade – something like an HD6XX/Sundara would be a nice step up. https://homestudiobasics.com/the-5-best-audiophile-headphones-for-under-500/