OT > Need new Headphones

[Sergius]

I have a really old set of Sony MDR V6 (yes, really old but they've been good to me), and I'm ready to get new ones.

My first impulse was just to get a set of Sony's current model similar to the ones I have, but I wanted to shop around a little more.

I do a lot of work on headphones, and would like to see some recommendations on what's the best out there these days. I'm looking for studio grade, over ear headphones under $500. I want true sound response, not the exaggerated bass response from stuff like those Beats by Dre headphones. If there's a certain Beats model that does this, then it'd be considered as well.

Thanks in advance.

[Pinball Wizard]

I've been using Grados. They sound excellent, but they may not be good for you. They don't have a tight fit so there is more leakage out of them than with the Sonys. Also they are rather low impedance. That's not a problem in the studio but it does make them difficult to drive with some portable equipment.

[Rubicon]

+1 for Grado PS 1000's

The best headphone I have ever owned.

Rubicon

[CME]

If you'll consider in-ear I just got some Etymotic ER4's. They sound incredible and within your budget.


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[barstool719]

I love my Audio Technica ATH-M50s. Full frequency range, amazing sound, lightweight and comfortable, and no leakage.

[Cliffy_Boy]

I too use the Grado RS-1 for mixing and they sound like my Genelecs. Sometimes I forget which I'm using. Big thumbs up.

For tracking I need closed phones and use Sony MDR-7509HD because they're flattering and I like the sound.

[PD-John]

I do a fair bit of mixing on the AKG K702's and I love them; super comfortable, very neutral and unhyped with pinpoint stereo imaging accuracy. They need a beefy amp to run them at their best though. Two downsides are they're rather huge so not at all portable, and lots of leakage because of the open back so everyone in the room will know hear what you're hearing too.