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I have very limited experience with headphones and don't normally wear them. The most I've ever paid was about $100 for a pair of Sonys or my Grado SR80. Here's what I'm looking for within a budget of under $1000, and preferably in the $500 range +/- or less.
- Somewhat lightweight and comfortable 'on ear' headphones with comfy cushions, rather than large over the ear headphones.
- Needs some passive ambient noise attenuation but doesn't have to be dead quiet from outside noise.
- The headphones will be used in my home office at my desk and will be driven by my Oppo HA-1 headphone amp/DAC, or the 1/4" headphone jack from an integrated amp. The headphones do not have to work well with an iPhone, iPod, etc.
- What impedance do I need? I see some headphones rated 32-Ohms, 250-Ohms, 600-Ohms within the same model family. What is 'standard'?
- Magnets and driver materials? I have no clue but if there's something I should look for or avoid I'd like to know more.
- And finally, I listen mostly to rock and prefer a clean transparent sound with great dynamics and well defined bass. Not that I need extra bass emphasis but I prefer that it not be 'rolled off' or too smooth down there. I would prefer tight, detailed, well defined bass vs ultimate 'thump'. I don't want the treble rolled-off either but prefer that it not be annoyingly bright. I forgot to mention that I also enjoy female vocals and jazz.
Again, must be reasonably lightweight, on ears with comfy cushions, some background noise attenuation, and they need to be transparent and dynamic. For use at my home office desk. Thanks!
Follow Ups:
I wanted to first thank everyone for the suggestions. I'm a total headphone newbie so I truly appreciate all the input.
I'm hardly qualified to give a detailed headphone review but I'll post my initial impressions of the Sennheiser Momentum 2 and compare them to my Grado SR80. I have only 3 hours on the Sennheisers and I'm not sure if I should expect things to change with break-in.
I'm driving the headphones with my Oppo HA-1 headphone amp / DAC using 'hi-res' 24/96 music files from my Mac Mini.
The Sennheisers are noticeably more sensitive (louder) than my Grados so I have to adjust and match the volume level when swapping headphones.
The Mementum 2 have ear 'cups' that fit perfectly over my average sized ears. My ears are completely 'inside' these cups with no room to spare so if you have big ears, these might be uncomfortable. I can barely feel the leather (or faux leather?) wrapped band on my head and the ear cups feel like soft foam wrapped in very soft leather or faux leather.... like the soft leather seats in some luxury cars. They're nice and they don't feel tight on my head or ears. They're comfortable but they eventually make my ears feel a little warm. That's fine because I wanted a closed headphone to block ambient noise.
Coming off the Grado SR80 the first thing I noticed in the Momentum 2 is the deep rich bass. It doesn't sound wooly to me but it's more prominent vs the Grados. Is this to be expected in a closed headphone vs open air design? Everything sounds clear and transparent with great dynamics and treble extension through the Momentum 2. I also like the fact that they passively block outside noise which my Grados can't do.
On the other hand, for ultimate comfort I still prefer my inexpensive Grado SR80 with foam ear pads that rest on my ears rather cupping my ears. The ventilation and lightness of these cheapies are wonderful. The Grados sound more 'distant' if that's the right way to explain it while the Sennheiser Momentum 2 are more immediate and enveloping. They both sound good to me but I'm not yet sure which 'sound' I prefer.
If I recall, the Grados were $99 and I think I paid full price on these Momentum 2 at $350 since they're brand new just announced at CES. They replace the earlier Momentum headphones. Is it fair to compare a $99 headphone to a $350 pair? I don't know but both sound very good to me.
I would love to try a pair of Grado RS1e so those are probably in my future when budget allows.
For now, it's the Momentum 2 when I want to block outside noise... and the Grado SR80 when I want more comfort.
Seems as if you like them, glad to hear.
Re your question as to whether prominent bass is to be expected in a closed headphone v. an open one, I would say that in general a closed headphone would have more bass, other things being equal, because of the reverberations within the earcup.
But, it probably just as much reflects the "tuning" of the closed headphone, since manufacturers have significant leeway to adjust the bass (and other frequencies too). For example, Sennheiser has other closed headphones that don't have nearly as much bass as the Momentum, such as the HD25 (also very light and sometimes likened to a closed Grado) and its iterations, Amperior and HD25 Aluminum. (I've had both the Momentum and HD25-1 II.) There are even closed headphones which are light on bass, e.g., the AKG K550, which I auditioned at the now defunct J&R in Manhattan.
Manufacturers can adjust the bass (both in amount and in other characteristics) mainly by adjusting the padding within the earcup.
The fact that the Momentum has a fairly prominent bass means that Sennheiser wanted it that way. For the Mom. 2, they reportedly tightened up the bass by adjusting the earcup padding, but didn't change the amount of the bass v. the M.1 Yet, Momentums are not considered "bassy" headphones such as Beats, Skullcandy, and others, but it seems Senn. wanted a fairly prominent bass, likely because that's what the customer demographic for the M. would want, given the customers' expected type of music, the fact that it's portable, and related factors. For me the bass was a bit too prominent but it seems most really like the Momentum sound.
In a portable headphone, generally you would want a more prominent bass because bass is really adversely affected by outside noise on a plane, bus or train. Also, since you like rock, I would think a more prominent bass would be desirable, the only question is how prominent.
Grados are considered to be good for rock since they're dynamic with a prominent treble (some would say too prominent) and a pronounced bass which, however, doesn't extend very deep (into the so-called sub bass region). Grados are very light and some think they're uncomfortable, while others like their comfort. I had the RS-1 for a year or so and thought they were a nice improvement on the SR-80, while still retaining the Grado sound. I didn't like the soft wood though, which was easily dented.
BTW, the bass on the M. 2 probably won't change from break-in, since a friend ran the M. 1 for a week and the bass didn't change.
Ned, thanks again for the detailed comments."Yet, Momentums are not considered "bassy" headphones such as Beats, Skullcandy, and others,...."
I'll be sure to stay away from those "bassy" headphones since I find the Momentum 2 bass to be just fine for my taste. Any more would be over the top too much.
I do like the Grados for their lightness and I consider them to be very comfortable long term but they wouldn't have cut it today. I was working in the home office when my wife decided to vacuum the house. I am so glad I have the Momemtum 2. I listened to music and didn't even notice her dragging and banging the vacuum around.
Edits: 03/02/15
I just set up the Oppo HA-!, and I love it. Meets all the hype, and then some.
I use it as a DAC primarily, but also with HD 600's.
Same here. I use my Oppo HA-1 primarily as a DAC driving my ARC integrated amp. Otherwise, it drives my headphones to keep the music in my ears and the noise out. It's a very versatile headphone amp / DAC. Enjoy!
I use my Monentums for travel. The combo of SQ, effeciency, isolation and comfort is great.
I haven't tried my Momentums direct from the iPhone or iPad for travel but I suspect it will do fine as it seems sensitive not requiring a lot of drive.
I think much of what you have described is the difference between closed and open headphones. I prefer the open sound of my 325i but I keep a pair of DT660 around for those rare occasions where I need isolation.
Congratulations!
"If people don't want to come, nothing will stop them" - Sol Hurok
FYI - Announced at CES 2015: Sennheiser showed the new Momentum 2 Over Ear, which is an upgrade to the Momentum discussed and recommended by some members below. There will also be a Momentum 2 On Ear. If you're thinking of the Sennheiser Momentum, it probably pays to get the new version.
The Momentum 2 Over Ear, as per a review done by someone on Head-FI, improves upon and "corrects' certain issues with the original Momentum. These improvements mainly consist of:
- Larger earcups to better fit most ears and also improve the soundstage
- Foldable, with a smaller carrying case
- Improved bass, which is now faster and much less boomy (the reason why I had returned my Momentums awhile back.)
- Improved treble
As a result, the reviewer now rates the Momentum 2 Over Ear as the no.1 portable headphone, while the original Momentum was rated lower.
I haven't really checked much but don't really see them listed yet (or a price shown) so they may not be in stores yet.
I'll probably get a pair at some point. But for portable closed headphones, also coming along soon are two excellent competitors: the Oppo PM-3 ($399) to be available end of March, and the Audeze EL-8 ($699)
Thanks for the info! I was about to pull the trigger on the Momentum from Amazon at $187 but after reading your post I found the Momentum 2.0 so I ordered it.
I'll give them a try but I'm also very curious about the Grado RS1e which I might get much later as budget allows.
Glad I saw your post! Thanks again Ned
You're welcome! Enjoy them.
Have the AKG 701s and like them very much. Light, but they are rather large. And as mentioned, open, so no isolation. Sitting and working with these on wouldn't be very easy IMHO. But they sound very sweet.
I've picked up a pair of Beyer DT1350s to use as a light pair around the house, and also when travelling. Good isolation, great sound, well balanced, but as an on-ear, light and comfy. Before these, had Senn Amperior (upgraded HD25s), also very good, but the Beyers seem more refined and easier to listen to. Besides, the wife stole the Senns.
http://www.amazon.com/beyerdynamic-Beyerdynamic-DT-1350-Headphones/dp/B00821MTYE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1424789923&sr=8-2&keywords=beyerdynamic+dt1350
For a 'primer', check out Inner Fidelity's site, lots of great info/reviews.
http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/innerfidelitys-wall-fame
HeadFi is also a great resource. Forums have tons of reviews.
http://www.head-fi.org/
Whatever you do, good luck and enjoy.
FWIW I'm hung up on headphone comfort, both head band as well as ear pressure. I never found a light on ear headphone that didn't press too hard for me. I've been using Senn 650's for the past 5 years and was happy if not estatic. I do like their sound (I drive them with a Woo3).I recently picked up a pair of Mr Speaker planar phones (Mad Dogs - $300) and I was amazed by the comfort level - no head band or ear pressure at all. They are the most comfortable head phones I've ever worn. Sound wise they are warm in tone, being neither as extended or 'airy' as the Senn's but they are an excellent compromise. There are 2 other models in the line which offer alternative design and tone but use the same ear pads and headband system and should be equally comfortable. They are 'over the ear' however so they may not be what you want, but it is something to think about.
Edits: 02/10/15
they have stood the test of time and are priced right.
iBasso DX100,DX50 DX90. Chord Hugo. HiFiman 901 balanced. RSA Intruder, The Lightning. Fostex TH900 balanced, Hifiman HE-6, 560, 500, JH13 Pro balanced. Lyr2, Audeze. All phones balanced mostly with Whiplash cables. Photo gallery: www.pbase.com/jamato8
.
I have used HD600 for over ten years. The HD580 and HD650 are almost the same thing. I have owned supposedly "better" (anyway, more expensive and heavily tweaked) headphones that just couldn't get to sound anywhere near as good as the HD600. Also, I have used the HD800 at 3x the price and thought the HD600 was substantially better.
Headphones are personal. Not only are there fit issues, but different people really want different things from their headphones. I suppose that is true of all audio.
For me, in general I would suggest that the "classic high-end" headphones in the $200-$400 range are the sweet spot. This includes Sennheiser HD580, HD600 and HD650, Beyerdynamic 880, Grado SR325 and AKG 701. Headphones are not that complicated, and a company can pretty much do everything it is capable of for under $400. My experience with the HD800 showed me that more money does not equal better at all -- even within the same company's lineup!
As for impedance, the 300-600 ohm headphones are good with "line preamps" and tube gear. The 32-ohm-range headphones are good for solid-state gear.
My advice: get the HD600 and listen to it for a year. Later, go try other headphones and see if you can find a better one.
but certainly better than anything under $1000, including most other Senn.
My 325i is good with my tube gear.
"If people don't want to come, nothing will stop them" - Sol Hurok
+1
+2
This place has headphone lending (no experience with it).
http://www.thecableco.com/Product/NEW-Headphone-Lending-Library
The Sennheiser Momentum is good, but for rock I'd suggest V-Moda's M100. Closed, lightweight, and rocking.
--eNjoY YouRseLf!.....
If you can't audition headphones, I suggest buying used, because their fit on your ears is something you can only evaluate by wearing them. Buy used, and you can sell them with minimal loss.
AKG 701s might be good, if you can tolerate no isolation (open back.) Much smoother response than the Grados, less thumpy in the bottom, though extended way down, and much smoother extension in the highs. While they are big, they sit very gently on the ears, and aren't heavyweights. The cheapie Grados are a great value, but they are a little too "in your face" and too thumpy for my taste. The 701s are far more refined sounding. They should be an easy load for any good headphone amp.
WW
"A man need merely light the filaments of his receiving set and the world's greatest artists will perform for him." Alfred N. Goldsmith, RCA, 1922
I found the K701's VERY uncomfortable. They're known for that. That and no bass.
I have high-end Sennheisers and love them (more than my Quads) but have no experience with the less expensive Sennheisers.
I've heard good things about the 'Momentum' series from them.
If you buy from Amazon you can return them if they don't fit on your head comfortably.
"We are all in God's hands... and God is a malign thug."
-Mark Twain
I briefly listened to the Momentums at a local Best Buy. Despite the circumstances, I thought they sounded very good. Good clarity and accurate reproduction of musical timbres. I have Grado RS-2's and I like them, but if I didn't, I would seriously consider the Momentums.
.
"We are all in God's hands... and God is a malign thug."
-Mark Twain
I checked out Amazon and they also have the 'on ear' version of the Momentum and it's actually less expensive. I wonder how it sounds. Thanks.
The Momentum On Ear is widely considered to be a step or two down from the regular Momentum. There are reviews of both on line and there's a reason why the On Ears are cheaper.
Re the regular Momentun, it's pretty good but... I had a pair briefly and thought the midrange and highs were fine but found the bass to be a bit too prominent for my taste and a bit "wooly", i.e., not tightly drawn, and returned them. Tyl Herstens of InnerFidelity.com said the same thing. But others seem to think the bass is fine -- depends on your taste, the kind of music you listen to and other phones you're using for comparison.
That said, for a reasonably priced pair of portable closed phones, they were as good or better than the best competition in their price range.
By all means let us know what you think.
If you're a brave soul you can try hitting headfi.org for some opinions.
"We are all in God's hands... and God is a malign thug."
-Mark Twain
If you like your SR80 why not go up the Grado food chain? As you know, all Grados are open concept so there's not much attenuation. Beyer makes some semi-open, ex. DT880, in various ohmages. Generally, I would think low impedance cans to work better with the Oppo jack.
"If people don't want to come, nothing will stop them" - Sol Hurok
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