Grrr...Headphone Issues (Want to Buy)

[BDawg]

So, I've been out looking for a new set of headphones (<$150) for home.

I stopped by Best Buy and Circuit City, found models that I wanted to try out, but neither place would let me. The aren't allowed to demo headphone models. I mentioned that they allow demoing of speakers that cost less than the headphones, but they didn't seem to understand the connection.

If I'm going to spend $150 on headphones, I think I should be able to try them out...after all, isn't that the advantage of a B&M store over a web store? Higher prices, but more touch/feel.

So anyway, now that I've found out I won't be able to listen to them before I buy (which I accept for crappy $10 phones, but not ones costing over $100), where's a good place to buy and models I should consider?

I checked out headphone.com, but their prices are the same as BB, plus I have to pay shipping. Does anyone else have an idea?

Someone's mentioned the Grado SR60s before, but I'm not using for portable, they'll plug into my Yamaha RX-V2095.

I still can't believe that I can walk into Best Buy, ready to blow $150, and they won't do what it takes to sell me the product.

 

[chiwawa626]

Sony V700 studio monitor headphones, i use these their grrrreeat!
checkout some of the proffesional studio headphones at pssl.com a lot are better then the home ones...

 

[N8Magic]

Go to a dedicated hi-fi shop.

They'll have better prices than the major chains, the service will be better AND they'll let you try out the headphones before you buy.

 

[Siva]

the sony mdr v-6 are awesome and about half the price that you are shooting for, they'll beat most headphones that go twice as high too.

 

[apoppin]

I still can't believe that I can walk into Best Buy, ready to blow $150, and they won't do what it takes to sell me the product.

Consider yourself lucky you weren't arrested.



Try a stereo/hi-fi store. Usually, headphones are set up for comparison purposes.

You might also read the online reviews to narrow your search down. There are entire forums devoted to fan's "cans".

The Grado series is awesome (IMO) . . . not just for portables . . . audiophile also . . .

Finally, make sure you can RETURN them if you are not satisfied.

 

[erikiksaz]

Grados aren't only for portable use. I'd either just grab the sr60 or a Sony V6, i think they would probably fit your bill nicely.

 

[BDawg]

Why not the SR80s instead of the 60s? They're not much more.

 

[yellowperil]

I've heard good things about the AKG K240M ($90) and Sony MDR7506 ($100). Both are used frequently in studios for tracking and mixing.

 

[erikiksaz]

Originally posted by: BDawg
Why not the SR80s instead of the 60s? They're not much more.

It's been a while since i've checked on this issue, but many people agreed that the Sr80 needed some sort of headphone amp to get the best sound possible. I don't remember though, this was over a year ago, so try checking out headwize.com or head-fi.org.

 

[BDawg]

I currently have a pair of Sony MDRV600s, but they're at work and my thought had been buy something exclusively for home. Would I be better off buying bringing the Sony's home, or leaving them at work?

Why does no one reccommend the Sennheiser HD570s? Those are the ones I wanted to try out. I've heard they make nice stuff.

 

[manly]

Any recommendations on an affordable computer headset? A basic (non-USB) headphone with swing-away microphone for gaming. Besides comfort, audio and mike quality, I'd prefer to have some durable ear cushions.

This low end unit at Amazon.com has some solid reviews, but it's out of stock. FWIW, I'd say my budget is under $50.