You can get these factory refurbished on Amazon for $63. I have purchased three of them and they all came in flawless condition. The packaging left a lot to be desired but the cans themselves looked brand new. All three still working flawlessly 2 months later. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FEEY9A/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A1VIZTAR4QSCZ0&psc=1)
Ok this is weird. Bose QC35 costs around $365 and Sennheiser HD558 costs around $470, in India. Even US pricing is around $250(for HD558).
Is this the HD558 you're talking about?
https://www.amazon.in/Sennheiser-HD-558-Over-Ear-Headphone/dp/B004FEEY9A
These are the 558s you can do an easy mod and make the 598 easily. just look up what to do on google
Sennheiser HD558
Go to Amazon. There's a product search box on the middle of the page. Type in gaming and check what the people there say. I saw good reports for "gaming". Also search for movies and other stuff you're looking for. It has a detachable cable and replaceable cushions. It's generally comfortable. You might get it for less then $90 if you shop around.
I use these for everything. Music, gaming, netflix. Audio leaks out, so others can hear, but that doesn't matter at home. These aren't headphones for your trip on the bus or subway downtown.
or
You could watch Massdrop for a Hifiman HE-350 drop again, although I would absolutely jump for the 558's above first.
What would be best practice for carrying headphones outside (Senn HD 558)? I see people at school here usually wrapping their cables the lazy way, putting it in their pocket/bag, and then putting the headphones on their neck.
I've considered putting the headphones in my bag when not in use, but it feels like that would just break them.
All new controllers have a 3.5 jack for those. If you're willing to spend 75 for turtles, I'd also suggest going for an actual solid set of audiophile headphones. I used to own the turtle x12s when I was on the 360, but made the switch to these Sennheiser HD 558s when they were on sale for $70 new, and they honestly make the x12s sound like complete garbage in comparison (basically turtle beaches are like the Alienwares of gaming headsets).
So this is a really noob question, I'm new to headphones. I got the Sennheiser HD 558 Headphones last year for Cyber Monday. Are these a big enough of an upgrade that it'd be worth dropping $100 on them or are they pretty much the same model for a non-audiophile?
Amazon sales, no idea if they've ended or not now though :s They kept going out of stock and then back in for me, at that price.
I did make a thread about the discount, but it didn't gain a huge amount of traction.
This. I've been using Sennheiser headphones for at least 7-8 years now, they've more than earned my loyalty.
At your budget you could go for these: Sennheiser HD 558
Good all around quality for everything from music to movies to games.
> You don't like gaming headsets? Why not? Aren't they like, really good quality for quite cheap?
Because they look good, but the sound quality is actually pretty horrible. A $50 set of quality headphones would beat out any and almost all gaming headsets, but that's not the worse part. The microphone, in every single one of them. Is on par with a $10 microphone. Even the cheap $30 standing ones are of higher quality than the most expensive Corsair, Steelseries, Razer etc headsets out there. I'm personally using the Corsair VOID RGB because I got them cheap, and the sound isn't bad, but the microphone is horrible, the only reason I keep them is because they're RGB and wireless. Wireless studio headphones cost a lot. But if you're going for wired headphones, look at the current https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A for $79
Also, don't go for 7.1 unless you're looking at $200+ headphones. Its usually just horrible.
+1 for the over-ear, open-backed headphone. I use these, Sennheiser HD 558, and I love the quality of sound without the environmental disconnectedness of backed phones or plugs/buds. They stay on well, and the cable management is pretty easy, I just wrap up the majority of the cable with a twist tie, and let it hang over my back. Can't even tell its there. Plus, I can easily disconnect and use the headphones for non-VR stuff too.
Personally I would go for these over the 598s, the frequency response is almost identical as far as I know and they're a fair bit cheaper.
Going to need a budget haha.
These are good and there is a free mod that upgrades them to the next model (HD 598) called the foam mod. I'd suggest trying open back headphones because of the better soundstage which is great for games
The linked self post was posted at 02:39 PM (UTC) on Wednesday April 20.
[Help] Headphones for Production
hello /r/edmproduction,
I am searching for headphones for my music production. As I started only a few months before I don't need the high-end headphones.
Already I am aiming at the "Sennheiser HD 558". Can you guys recommend them? Besides that I will use them for normal music listening at home and gaming.
(/r/edmproduction) (5 Karma) ([About](/r/EDMSaveBot))
Hi, I've been looking for a good pair of headphones to play video games and listen to music. I've had my eyes on the Sennheiser HD 558 ( http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-504631-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1391029286&sr=8-7&keywords=sennheiser ) for some time. But I would like some other options and opinions. edit: willing to spend up to $150
Thanks a lot for the advice again! I hope you don't mind me asking you a couple more questions?
So, I don't really need to worry about an amp for now if I'm just looking at things like the LSR30x's and those Sennheiser headphones, is what I'm getting, right?
My music is just kind of...rock I guess? So I have some bass/drums or whatever in it, but it's not prominently featured normally. So is that the type of thing I could get away with, not having a subwoofer? (I guess I technically have a sub now, with my current crappy set, right?)
Those Sennheiser HD280 ones are only $60 used on Amazon, so I think I'm gonna go for them. So I'll plug them into the front jack of my 2i2, the headphones jack, right? Right now I plug my speakers/headphones into that, and they're both 3.5mm but the jack is 1/4", so I use a little converter to one into the other. So I always assumed that nicer headphones use a 1/4" jack, but these HD280s use the same 3.5mm as my current ones. Is that not the case (and 3.5mm is fine), or are these ones not nice enough yet to be using the 1/4" jacks? So, these should also be a noticeable upgrade in audio quality from my current ones?
So I'm really on the edge of getting these LSR305s. They're on amazon for 100, used. I don't want the bass to sound really crappy, but getting the 308s instead would cost an extra 150.
Oh shit, I remembered one more important thing. I read with several of these that you really need space (at least a foot) of air behind them. I was planning on having them at my desk, which is right up against the wall. Would that be really bad?
edit, crap, one more thing. I read in the sidebar wiki thing here that these Senns are recommended highly at their price point, and I can also get them used for ~60. Would these be better than the HD280s?
The only good thing about an Ultrasone since 2010 which is a big deal though, especially if you can spare it. http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1446248477&sr=8-1&keywords=hd558. and this is a must.
Honestly I'd just get a decent pair of headphones. Something like these: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FEEY9A/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687642&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0042A8CW2&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1PS0FHAB5P1YRWY4P01P
Honestly, I recommend you stay away from the "Gaming Headsets" and spend your money on a good pair of studio headphones, the HD558s do exceptionally well for gaming.
Love the headphone mention. I use a desktop mic and other people use the add on mic as well to their headphones.
I was lucky and got Sennheiser's 363D for $200 and they're fantastic. That said, at their normal $300 I wouldn't recommend them, especially since the guys over at /r/headphones would say to get a pair of audiophile cans and a modmic.
If I were you, I'd go with these Sennheisers for sound quality, and get an external mic if you really want voice capabilities. You could also look into getting the Hyper X cloud, another great choice if you don't mind that they look a little more "gaming" than a regular old pair of headphones, and apparently they come with a 7.1 surround card (like my 363Ds did). That could be a huge plus if you're into immersion, but keep in mind that you can always buy a surround card by itself later down the road that would work just fine with the audiophile gear.
EDIT: Forgot to mention that if you're using these anywhere other than your computer, you'll look a lot less silly walking around with the Sennheisers (rather than the typical gaming headset) plugged into your phone or laptop or whatever.
Yeah man, no problem.
I hate myself for getting into things AFTER the sale is over. But think of it this way - the BF bundle had white M50x's. I personally don't like the white M50x's, especially because they get dirty easily. I know there were other deals like giving gift cards and such, but I can't recall exactly. Nevermind, the best BF deal was the white Blue Yeti + the black M50x's for 159.99. ~~Now I hate myself a little more.~~ White ones suck anyway.
In any case, today, I ended up getting the blackout edition Blue Yeti for little over 100 from Amazon, and the HD 598 from Amazon for little over 150 (I, again, missed the BF deal for 100). If you only play games in your room and like to watch movies and listen to music on a headset, go for a USB mic like the Blue Yeti and an open headset. The M50x's are closed, so you should be better off with the HD 598's, or even the HD 558 that is on sale right now on Amazon for 80 bucks.
Sorry links a bit broken for me
I notices a couple of variations special edition etc
Thanks for all the help Btw!
I've had a pair of Sennheiser HD 558 Headphones for almost 2 years now and they've been more than I could ask for. I've also dropped them a couple of times and they're still kicking.
Sennheiser HD 558. I like the open back just in case I hear a crash and I have to pause to go yell at the kids lol. I pair it up with an old mic stand I've had for almost 15 years now, still sounds great tho.
For your price range I saw these on Amazon, Sennheiser HD 558's. They're also open-back which is definitely what you want for mixing, and as long as you don't share your bedroom or plan on taking them everywhere with you since they do leak sound.
I love the HD 558s: http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443344148&sr=8-1&keywords=HD+558
But you also can't go wrong with the ATH-AD700X that someone else recommended. I've owned them both and they're both fantastic.
I know my 558s were on sale not too long ago for like 100 off, it was an insane deal haha. That was on Amazon.com though.
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1439931060&sr=8-1&keywords=sennheiser+558
Looks like they are on for $99.
Thanks for the suggestion!
In amazon:
Under "Technical Details", it says " Noise-Cancelling-Feature; Microphone-Feature", There aren't any more details regarding these "features"
Good to hear! Ana bout the voice thing, it'll get better with time, just how people have problems at first finding things to say. Just make a bit of conscious effort to vary your voice, and it'll get better with time!
and my headphones are the very same ones Markiplier uses! Sennheiser 558 HD Open ear headphones. They're a bit pricy, but I love them. Great quality audio and they're comfortable as heck to wear! Here's a link to the Amazon listing: http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437963040&sr=8-1&keywords=sennheiser+558+HD
I don't have these ones personally, but I have heard pretty good things about them especially at the price range. You could then get a Mod Mic from antlion i believe their name is or find a cheap mic to attach.
*Edit - There are articles covering good Affordable headphones for gaming I don't remember where I found it. I would check out the headphones subreddit or audiophile subreddit and doing some quick research there.
No one recommending the Sennheiser HD558? Because I'm recommending the Sennheiser HD558. a little above your budget right now (180 CAD), but they go on sale fairly frequently.
Open-backed, fantastic soundstage (great for gaming), pretty neutral (also good for gaming, imo), extreemely comfortable, and are a full-size over-ear (big ears, no problem)
also I don't why I responded to this as it falls under Rule 1, probably worth reposting to the sticky
Same price on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_jUgnub0WR5G9W
Misleading price drop by Frys, they are normally $99 on Amazon. Good headphones nevertheless.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnJoN5zBFEg I believe this will be a good place for you to start. It gives many good examples so you can choose the one that's best for you.
I will give you an example of mine, though.
I bought a pair of sennheiser 598SEs from Amazon warehouse for 70 bucks(because of this sub reddit). They're normally like 250. The box had a gash taken out of it where it looked like a warehouse worker who opened the box went a little deep with the cutters. They're still covered under amazon to work and all that.
I am still looking for a mic(using old headset sitting on table). I am stuck between a mod mic and a bm 800 mic.
bm 800 - http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=bm+800 will need a phantom power(20 bucks) and mic stand/arm for this one.
Sennheiser 598 SE Warehouse link: http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_5?m=A2L77EE7U53NWQ&s=warehouse-deals&ie=UTF8&qid=1456164812&sr=8-5&keywords=sennheiser price will change a whole lot keep an eye on it.
Note about these, though. They didn't have the bass I was used to, they focus more on sound stage(so the total sounds you hear, how much you pick up, the differences. As if you're there). Mine was terrible but then I discovered I didn't have my onboard sound installed(cause usb headset). The sound quality is much better than any gaming headset I've used.
Before taking my advice about anything watch reviews of anything I recommended.
Like another commenter had said. I too prefer the Headphone and Microphone separate. Looking into it, I see $200 AUD is roughly $140 USB, so I personally recommend Sennheiser HD 558 Headphones, they cost just under $100 USD on Amazon, are super comfortable and they sound amazing.
As for a microphone, you could either give a Antlion Audio ModMic 4.0 Attachable Boom Microphone - Omni-Directional with Mute Switch a try if you wanted something similar to a gaming headphone setup, with a detachable microphone, OR go for a desk stand microphone, most basic ones will work, especially if you only use it for online gaming (audio quality wouldn't be a HUGE deal as opposed to if you were streaming or something.)
These are normally about USD $100 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A
Checkout massdrop for a DAC/amp combo
This one is pretty good and should last you a while (it's portable too which is nice)
The cans themselves depend on your listening environment. If you are going to be using it that is somewhat noisy go for a closed back, otherwise i'd recommend semi-open or open back. Massdrop also has some great deals for headphones, or you can get some good ones from amazon for pretty cheap.
Those will put you a bit closer to $300 but you will definitely enjoy them. I use the x-duoo and the 439s at work (open floor plan) and they've been great
Hmm. Alright, let me throw some options at ya, then:
If you're willing to be flexible on price, want some nice bass, prefer isolation, need positional audio, and are okay with importing, I'd probably say the best pick would be Audio-Technica's A900X via Buydig for US$140, honestly. It's a comfortable, closed-backed headphone with acceptable (though not amazing) isolation and a "euphonic" v-shaped sound signature with boosted bass and treble. The main issue with it, in fact, is the price: It's CA$176 straight-up, and you may have to pay addition for shipping and duty on it. Other than that, however, it seems to be just about everything you're looking for.
Another good option would be Sennheiser's HD558 ($192 via Amazon CA, but US$110 on the Amazon US page, though I'm not sure of the logistics of ordering across borders on Amazon). It's definitely less ideal than the A900X for your tastes, being open-backed (and, thus, having no isolation), and more neutral in sound signature, but it's still mildly bass boosted, and it's quite capable in terms of positional audio - more so than the A900X, in fact.
A cheaper option if you want to stick to buying in your nation would be Audio-Technica's open-backed AD500X ($139 via Amazon CA). Open-backed and, by most accounts, fairly neutral, the AD500x would likely fall down relative to the HD558 in terms of both bass quantity and sound quality, but its positional audio, like the rest of the Air series, is quite famously good.
I'm sorry for the options to be so sparse - Canada's audio equipment prices are, in many respects, even more dire than other electronics for some reason, so I'm having a great deal of trouble fitting my usual <$250 picks into your price range.
Sennheiser HD 558 Headphones https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fD9JDbH8J6590
These are what you want. Removable cable, open-air design so your ears won’t sweat, etc. I’ve had the much older hd 255s for over 6 years.
https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A I have these and they are the best headphones I’ve ever had. Ridiculously comfy and sound amazing
My budget is 200/250 dollars I am currently using these https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A and this https://antlionaudio.com/products/modmic-5would I would prefer noise canceling and obviously good audio there is no need for outside use only gaming and music I was thinking about the turtle beach elite pro headset but I'm up for all suggestions.
> WIRELESS headphones for PC gaming
will lag and struggle with interference from other wireless devices like routers. Proper RF-based entertainment models will cost you more than $250.
I suggest you get a good,open back over the ear headphone with detachable cables. This way you can easily replace the cable once it brakes. The solution that comes closes to your budget is the Sennheiser HD558.
If you require isolation from the outside world Brainwavz HM5
Sennheiser HD558 are currently on a decent sale for less than $100.
I was also feeling the same, so I went ahead and bought some Sennheiser HD 558s and just attached a ModMic onto the side for whenever I talk to people. I heard they're good open-back headphones with a great soundstage and got them for around $90. If your room is loud though, you'll hear more background noise while wearing them compared to closed-back.
Also worth noting that there's less bass with these when compared to most other gaming headsets, so it'll be more neutral sounding, so if you're really in love with bass there should be better options to suit that taste.
Sennheiser HD558 headphones pretty high quality. If you need a microphone, you can add on a modmic for 55$
Están los muy aclamados Philips SHP9500 por 2,500 MXN; no hay necesidad de amplificador ni nada. O también la versión anterior a los HD598, los HD558 (https://www.amazon.com.mx/Sennheiser-HD-558-Aud%C3%ADfonos-diadema/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=pd_sbs_23_4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=ZMV726R3523B71J5K8HA) que, como verás, están a 2,800 MXN.
La opción de los Sennheiser HD598cs creo que no es mala para nada, es un auricular más a tener en cuenta a la hora de elegir.
EDIT: Translate: There are the highly acclaimed Philips SHP9500 for $ 2,500; No need for amplifier or anything. Or also the previous version to the HD598, the HD558 ((https://www.amazon.com.mx/Sennheiser-HD-558-Aud%C3%ADfonos-diadema/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=pd_sbs_23_4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=ZMV726R3523B71J5K8HA) which, as you will see, they are 2,800 MXN.
The option of the Sennheiser HD598cs I think is not bad at all, it is a headphone more to keep in mind when choosing.
Sennheiser HD 558, Schiit Fulla 2 is optional, and modmic.
How about these Sennheiser HD 558s or these Audio Technica ATH-AD700X, they're a bit over your budget but they're both great headphones.
Sennheiser HD 558s with the 1.2m cord. Main benefit over the 598s is that the 558s use a fabric headband that grips perfectly for use in VR. These are really the ultimate Vive companion headphones, they sound wonderful for the price, they're comfy as fuck, they stay on your head, and they play nice with the Vive straps. So far I've found nothing else that does everything they do half as well. The only downside is needing to purchase the additional cable if you don't already own one (shorter cable came with the 598s in my case).
I had the same problem. The best solution I found was open backed headphones. I've been using the Sennheiser HD 558 headphones from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A
Here's MKBHD talking about it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RskGkGYtgg
If you have amazon prime or if you can sign-up for a free trail then you can get a pair pf Sennheiser 558's for 60 and a mod mic for 40
Yeah, take a look at these for example:
MSR7, great fucking sound for this price
And for further info, head to /r/headphones ;)
Can confirm HD 558's are $100 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1475198038&sr=8-1&keywords=sennheiser%2Bhd-558&th=1
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant
Link to monitor on sale https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapcsales/comments/54vvlg/monitor_acer_xg270hu_27_1ms_144hz_wqhd_free_sync/
i have the same monitor
I'd also recommend getting open-back headphones if you're after sound quality. Not that there's anything wrong with bookshelf speakers
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant
cheaper cooler
cheaper mobo
more/faster ram
cheaper ssd for not much difference
gtx 1080
cheaper case
better psu
1440p 144hz monitor. You could alslo get the Dell Gaming S2716DG for $200 more if you really want GSYNC
I left the gaming headset the same but i'd recommend openback headphones. Better sound quality and comfort
Aren't the platinum like 160?
https://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A
with this
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HZOVW0Q/ref=twister_B00HZOVVXE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
is a very good option for around that price range.
Trust me, any decent headphones by Sennheiser, Audio Technica, AKG, or brands like that will stomp out these "gaming headphones" which are really just 30 dollar headphones with some marketing gimmicks.
here are the links to the 558 and modmic, since i looked them up before reading this guy's post.
> HD 558
These guys?
And a Blue Yeti i've heard is quite a good mic?
Sennheiser HD 558s come recommended from some previous "good $100 headphones" threads I've read. IIRC there's some lining or glue or something on the inside of the headphones that can be removed to improve sound quality, too. There's also this thread on Head-Fi that could help you pick out some alternatives if the HD 558s aren't quite what you had in mind. If you're still not sure, go ahead and put the question to Head-Fi or r/Headphones. Those guys know their audio.
I think the Sennheiser 558's would be a better purchase for gaming. They have great positional audio due to the open back, as long as you don't care if people around you hearing your game, then they're definitely one of the best purchases in that price range. Antlion mod mics and zalman clip ons are great for the convenience and little space they use, but they don't sound too great (very tinny), a blue snowball will give way clearer voice but I'm not sure if the ps4 supports it.
Dude, just buy a Sennheiser HD 558 Headphones and attach a ModMic 4.0 to it.
Uhhhh I honestly don't know the model, got them from a friend. I think they are these Sennheiser HD 558 Headphones https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_IPFtxb6WZG1FS
And my mic is this in a shock mount Audio-Technica ATR2500-USB Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004QJREXM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_qQFtxbX3Z21XS
As everyone else suggested, get some good stereo headphones instead.
Here are some to look at:
Well that's easy then
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A
http://www.amazon.com/V-MODA-BoomPro-Gaming-Headset-Headphone/dp/B00BJ17WKK
We can go lower in the headphones if you want there are other very good headphones.
Any particular reason why you stopped at these two? Based on what I think is your budget (up to $100?) and the music you listen to I think there are better all-rounders out there. Sennheiser HD558 and Philips SHP9500 are some great examples. Unfortunately both are [semi]open so offer little isolation, but you say that's not a big problem. You really can't go wrong with either of them. If it makes a difference, you can attach a BoomPro to the SHP9500 so you can also use them for gaming.
Oh, and here's something to listen to when you get your new headphones: Rod's Stewart's "Rock Album". I know, it's a compilation not a "real" album, but it's probably the best combination of Rod's rock I've ever heard in one place. You probably won't find the album as such on Spotify so you'll have to make a playlist from the individual songs (the lengths on the page I linked will help you pick between the different versions).
Get these:
or save a little more and get these:
You can mod the 558s to sound pretty identical to the 598s.
Sennheiser HD558's <3 Mine, Can find the 598's on sale for a similar price sometimes. http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A
Some headphones i've looked, Sennheiser HD558, Sennheiser HD598, AKG K 702, Beyerdynamic DT 880
I'm unsure on spending more and getting the DT880, but if they give me sound quality comparable with Sennheiser HD 600 (which cost 285€) they are a very solid option.
Budget - $200 (before tax), maybe $250 (before taxes) if it is worth the $50 increase
Source - Realtek ALC1150 onboard sound (PC)
Requirements for Isolation - Some or more, will only be using it in the house.
Preferred Type of Headphone - Full-sized Opened
Preferred Tonal Balance - I do like good bass
Past Headphones - Creative Fatal1ty
Preferred Music - I listen to a variety, but lately tend to listen to more electronic, indie rock, and indie pop.
Other - I would also like a mic (preferably with good noise cancellation) on it since I use it to chat and game too.
What would you like to improve from your set-up - Better sound and mic quality.
I also wear glasses. I found that when I tried some closed full-size headphones, it was uncomfortable.
My cousin did recommend me on getting a Sennheiser HD 558 & a Antlion Audio ModMic Attachable Boom Microphone - Uni-Directional w/ Noise Cancelling & Mute Switch. Can I get an opinion on this? Or a better option?
Here it is, from ears to PC!
Hi,
I'm just wondering if this is a good price for these Sennheiser HD 558 or if I should wait a little bit.
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8
Hey guys, really noobish and simple question. Getting slightly nice (for me) headphones. Choosing between the Sennheiser 558 (recommended by the sidebar wiki) and the 280, which someone recommended.
They're both ~70 used on Amazon. I like the look of the velour on the 558s. I've read reviews/comparisons of both but honestly it's not giving me a whole lot, the reviews seem to disagree with each other. I like the closed aspect of the 280s, but I also like the 1/4" jack of the 558s (for plugging into my audio interface).
I assume they're pretty similar, right? Any advice about which I should go for?
for the price there are so many better alternatives, for example: the HD558, the krakens don't go anything remotely close to those, or if the virtual 7.1 support is important to you there's also the HyperX Cloud 2
If you can, I'd get these.
I personally own the HD 598se and love them. (note the SE edition is all black made for amazon) They do lack slightly in the bass department, but the sound reproduction is top notch. I've heard the 558 are similar but a slight step down. Wasn't sure of your budget so I threw both out there.
Im also not super familiar with the ATH MX 50 as I've listen to them only once, but they are near the top of the list for best headphones for ~$100
It's very hard to find good headphones in the store because that market is flooded by bose, beats and other brands who spend more onmarketing than R & D.
What about sound leakage? If you're not worried about that, this idea goes a little above your price range: the open-backed Sennheiser HD558 are on sale for $97 on Amazon + Antlion Mod Mic 4.0 - $54.99.
Sennheiser HD 558
Like, I can't express to you enough you should get these. I've owned and used many headsets and these are the best there is (sub $150).
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FEEY9A/?tag=pcpapi-20
When you need a mic get the Mod-Mic
http://www.modmic.com/collections/modmic/products/modmic-4-0
<strong>Sennheiser HD 558</strong>
Best bang for buck high-end headset on the market. I own a pair, they are highly suggested.
If you need a mic, get the <strong>ModMic</strong>
<strong>Longer cable</strong> to help keep the cable out of the way.
Could always ask for some nice fans? or maybe a nice pair of headphones? something like these fans or these headphones? No clue what you're working with atm so just a few ideas
well, that depends on your budget
I own a pair of Sennheiser HD558's, Philips Fidelio x2's, and AKG K7XX's.
I would highly recommend all three of them but it depends on what kind of use you are using them for, the genre of music, your budget, style choices and your personal tastes.
I should also mention that due to some QC issues on the X2's (the earpads are glued in) you can get them for about 160 right now, which is an amazing price for these cans. the pair i bought was that cheap because it was sent back without the cord. so I bought a nice braided cord from amazon
I use the k7xx's and x2's at my computer with a monoprice amp/dac
I use the k7xx's for instrument driven music such as acoustic/rock/classical and competitive games where I need to hear everything they have a fairly flat eq which make them incredibly clear and nothing drowns out anything else so you can hear everything
The x2's have a v-shaped eq that is considered more fun (Increased treble and bass) which makes them better for EDM/electronic/pop/hip hop and action movies/games
open-back headphones have decreased bass over closed back but the bass is much tighter and clean and with the x2's bass increase they are almost like a open-closed hybrid sound
This is my first time really looking for some serious headphones now that I have some disposable income.
Budget: $100
Source Onboard audio from my motherboard. I am not an audiophile by any means, plus I don't have that much desk space, so I feel as if a DAC/Amp wouldn't be worth it for me.
Usage: Almost entirely for PC gaming.
Isolation Would really only be using these at home, so not necessary.
Will you be using these headphones in public? Nope/
Preferred Type of Headphone: Over the ear
Preferred Tonal Balance: I would say more balanced.
Past Headphones Currently I am using a Logitech G430 headset for mainly Discord chatting, as well as a discontinued AKG K141 that I found in my dad's music stuff. I love the sound of the AKG but I find them extremely uncomfortable after a while.
Preferred Music: Classic rock in all sorts of genres. Mainly heavier sounding bands like AC/DC.
From looking around this sub and from Amazon recommendations, I have found that people tend to recommend the Sennheiser 558 or the HyperX Cloud. I know gaming headsets are frowned upon here, but I have heard that the HyperX Cloud is better than most other ones, and I do like the built in mics of headsets, although I do have a desktop mic as well.
These are really good and it's a great price:
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1450021269&sr=8-6&keywords=sennheiser+headphones
Those are pretty nice. I went back and found the pair I got, they were cheaper than I thought http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FEEY9A/ref=s9_dcbhz_bw_g23_i1_sh
Do you need a mic included? If not these are pretty great.
or
Hey guys, before I start I just want to thank you for taking the time.
Budget: $200 (whatever cheaper than this for same quality does the trick
Source: Desktop, laptop, phone, ipod
Isolation: None required. Comfort is more important
Type: Anything but IEMs and buds. I have cheap ones.
Tonal Balance: I honestly don't know what I want here as I'm new to this concept. But some booms and bass without losing mid and highs would be nice
Past Experience: Skullcandy {Skullcrushers, Hesh, Lowriders, Smoking Buds, Jackets, cheap buds} Bose { 1 closed over ear active noise isolation} Steelseries {Siberia V3 and some neckband model I can't remember} and I borrowed some gaming headsets.
Music: I listen to everything but I'm going to be mostly focused on EDM, DnB, Trance, Indie/Altern, R&B, Jazz and Hip Hop. So something like the bass on this I'm going to be listening to stuff like this:
Improvements: The comfort of the Siberia V3 but hopefully with a less mediocre sound and something better than my Skullcandy experiences. Though I must say my cheap $20 dollar Skullcandy IEMs sound better than the V3.
Location: Northern Virginia, US.
I've read the guides (that are 4 month old) and I came with these options:
Sennheiser HD 598 I'm more inclined to this because of looks
Beyerdynamic DT-880 Pro Headphones (250 Ohm)
If anybody has any recommendations on which one I should pick out of this or even recommend something else that'd be nice, since the guides are 4 month old and lots of things come out in 4 months. I also noticed nobody mentioned Shure. In a future I'd love to learn more about DACs and buy stuff to build my setup.
Yup. Current price of the 558 on Amazon.ca is $200. It really sucks
Here's a list for ya.
Shit deal, get the sennheiser hd 558's much better. http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=pd_sim_23_5?ie=UTF8&dpID=41ljcZIdgGL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR123%2C160_&refRID=1390DG1MD5TX2D515E2N
Does anyone know if it's worth it to replace my current Sennheiser HD 558's for this? Thanks
Get a modmic and some good headphones. Right now I have the Sennheiser 558s and the ModMic 4.0. It's a pretty nice setup and I've been enjoying it for awhile.
In the words of Shia Labeouf, JUST DO IT!!!
Seriously these headphones are about as good as it gets for $100 or less.
Then I'd recommend the Sennheiser HD558.
I really like this setup. This would be a wired setup however sounds great.
I use headphones (Sennheiser RS 180 or HD 598 depending on my mood) and a cheap Logitech desk mic I picked up 6 or 7 years ago that still works. The mic picks up more background noise than I'd like but my friends can still hear me clearly on skype and in-game voice chats.
If you're looking for a nice combo that won't cost you over $300 (CAD), try this:
Hey guys, I could really use some advice on headphones I'm deciding on for general use (movies, music, games.) I have some credit at Best Buy for around $100, and right now I'm deciding between these two:
Although a part of me is wondering if I get the Seinheisers should I just find a way to pay more to get these, since I've wanted them for a while:
Let me know what you guys think, I'd honestly be happy with any of them. I appreciate it!
Edit: looks like the Senn's have it. Thanks guys!
Hey, I'm gonna skip the formatting since I'm really just making an A/B choice here.
I'm looking at the Sennheiser HD 558 at $109 vs the Audio Technica ATH-AD900X at $145. Mainly gaming and music, using an old Yamaha stereo receiver for amplification, but I also have a little Fiio that I take to LAN parties. What I really want to know is which is going to be more comfortable for long periods of time. I've got some Sennheiser Momentums right now, but they start to get uncomfortable after an hour or so.
The HD 558's look more comfortable, but the AD900X's don't look half bad, and $145 looks like a pretty good deal as well. Thoughts?
For slightly over your budget I'd say at $110 the Sennheiser 558s are the best.
These are an option if you can spend a little over http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A if you can't get these instead http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0042A68R8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1440762798&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=Sennheiser+hd+518&dpPl=1&dpID=41tl1dOXS4L&ref=plSrch
Headsets are marketing BS. You can find headphones in just about any style that will smash a (especially closed headsets like 90% of them are) for sound quality and soundstage. Then, add a unidirectional ModMic and poof, the headsets get sent to the peasants where they belong.
Edit: whoops, forgot these. How on earth could I forget them?
Amazon seems to have pricematched this deal. Also if you look under "Used" you can find a few warehouse deals for $86.58 (shipped).
Maybe have a look at these?
Also try looking at this: http://www.head-fi.org/t/534479/mad-lust-envys-headphone-gaming-guide-5-31-2015-beyer-cop-and-shure-1540-added
Thats how I ended up with my Beyerdynamic DT 990s but they are crazy expensive in america for some reason
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FEEY9A
Grab a pair of those for ~$100, then do this easy mod:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-kJ7sN16qw
Then they'll sound nearly identical to their more expensive sibling, the HD598. Miles ahead of any gaming headset.
Alrighty! Thank you for answering all the questions.
The first thing that comes to mind at your price point, although it doesn't perfectly match your preferences, would be Sennheiser's HD 558 ($115 via Amazon). An open (and thus isolation-less) headphone, the HD558 is famed for its comfort and soundstage/spacial audio, with a warm and approachable take on a neutral sound signature. I consider it one of the most fundamentally easy to like headphones in its price bracket, though it's not my own personal favourite.
Another absolutely stellar option, albeit one just slightly above your budget (though not much of a flex) would be Audio-Technica's A900X ($140 via Buydig, $99 refurbished via Focus Camera). A comfortable, airy closed-back headphone, the A900X has often been my fallback for people who want a very open sound while still maintaining some noise isolation, though many consider its unique (and, by many accounts, quite beautiful) tuning to be its greatest strength. Quite comfortable for some, the wing design Audio-Technica uses for their headbands doesn't work for everyone, so if you've got an atypically large or small head, you might want to give this a miss.
Another open option would be Audio-Technica's A*<em>D</em>*900X ($140 from Buydig), which is a very spacious, somewhat bright but generally neutral headphone. It, like most of the Air series, is exceptionally light, breathable, and comfortable, and for those for whom the ATH wing system works, I consider these among the most comfortable of headphones.
In all cases, an add-on mic, such as Zalman's ZM-Mic1 on the cheap end or Antlion's Modmic on the high end will functionally turn a headphone into a headset.
Now, the problem with all of the above is that they leave essentially no money for a keyboard. I love headphones, but a good mech is also a damn solid investment, so I'd entirely understand if you want to allocate some of those funds in that direction instead. If you do, a cheaper keyboard like a Kailh or ALPS board can save you enough over Cherry switches to afford some decent headphones.
Of the headphones that would (roughly) fit in budget with those boards, the NVX XPT100 ($85 via Buysonic) is probably the best option. Comfortable, neutral, and fairly detailed, the XPT100 is a pretty solid entry-level monitor, and it has some of the best stock pads of any headphone I've ever seen, much less at its price point. I actually took the extra pair of slanted pads from mine to replace the stock pads of one of my main, markedly more expensive headphones.
Another solid option would be AKG's K240 ($67 via Amazon). Comparatively cheap and quite well-regarded, the K240 has two major issues for your use: #1, it's an open headphone, so it will leak sound in and out, and #2, it's fairly hard to drive, the product of a bygone era of higher-powered outputs and less efficient headphones.
Sorry if the descriptions are a tad short, it's quite late where I am and I'm not at my most eloquent. Hopefully the linked reviews can flesh out the options a bit more.
As someone who just got a new gaming headset (only to shortly replace it with a combo set-up), don't bother with combo headsets. Get a good pair of headphones and get either a desktop mic and a modmic.
Here are a few guides by Tek Syndicate that have combo ideas through multiple budgets:
Aaaand 200-1000 dollar set-ups, because WHY NOT?!
Me, personally? I own a mod mic that's attached to a pair of Sennheiser HD 558s. I love the combo, and it's roughly $150 after shipping.
However, if you're dead set on getting a combo headset, the only one I'd recommend is the Kingston Hyper X Cloud 2. Those ones are pretty damn decent from what I've heard, but I skipped out on them, because I was willing to pay the extra money. Here's a review by Linus-- although it's only the Hyper X Cloud 1 and here's a review of the Cloud 2 by JayzTwoCents.
Hope this helps!
I use Sennheiser HD 558 for gaming, music, etc. They are really quite good. Sound quality is excellent and they are known for durability. I have mine for about 3 or 4 years now and they work just fine. Only thing I thought was a bit off is the length of the cable (too long for my taste) so you might have to order a shorter one in addition.
If you're willing to go a bit beyond your budget, Sennheiser HD 650 might also be able to build a tent in your pants.
Would you be open to using the mic and spending all your budget on these? http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_cc_3?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1435344593&sr=1-3-catcorr&keywords=sennheiser+HD
If not I would go for this headset: http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-PC-320-Gaming-Headset/dp/B005HWEZ02/ref=sr_1_10?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1435344649&sr=1-10&keywords=sennheiser+headset
I know I'm plugging Sennheiser but that's only because my experience with them has been fantastic. I would also (if you can) save a bit more up and also buy a soundcard or USB sound interface. I got the Asus Xonar DGX for £20 and its transformed my music and gaming listening experiences.
Take a look at Sennheiser HD558 with a Zalman mic, or if you're willing to go a little over budget, get a ModMic instead. It's also on Massdrop now if you can wait for it to ship.
If you're really set on a headset, the only one you'll see recommended here is HyperX Cloud.
For what it's worth, the 668B isn't terrible, but you can definitely get significant improvements by investing more in audio.
At $100, for open circumaurals, two options stand out. The first would be Sennheiser's HD558 ($115 via Amazon), which is probably the single most common $100ish recommendation there days. It has a neutralish tuning with a mild lean toward the lower end, giving a very smooth, warm, and fairly agreeable sound signature. The HD558 is quite well-respected for its positional audio and soundstage as well, making it a solid choice for gaming.
There is, however, a second solid choice: Audio-Technica's ATH-AD700x ($115 via Amazon as well). The Air series has long been held up as one of the greats in terms of soundstage, imaging, and "airiness", and by all accounts the AD700x follows in that tradition. The ADs typically lean bright (that is, boosted treble, less bass), opposite the warm (lower treble, more bass/mids) tuning of the HD5x8 series, so which you pick would likely come down to what you'd like more of. Either should be quite neutral, but at this price range there's no such thing as "truly" neutral, everything's going to have its own characteristic coloration.
Hey all - new here with an upcoming birthday, and I had a couple questions before taking the plunge on amazon.
Budget - $160 or under
Source - Iphone and Macbook
Isolation - Some. Primary use would be work/study in libraries, coffee shop, on planes/buses, etc.
Preferred Type - No idea
Tonal - I'd guess balanced
Past Headphones - None of real quality, earbuds mostly
Music - I mostly listen to indie, hip hop, electronic(chilled out trap/house, nothing too dubby), and classic rock.
Location - United States
Some recommended by friends:
Sennheiser HD 558 - http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1430758242&sr=1-2&keywords=sennheiser+598[1]
Seem to be good based on what little I've read around here, and are on sale. Would they work with the kind of music I listened well? Bose QC3 - http://www.amazon.com/Bose-QuietComfort-Cancelling-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B0030XXH1S/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1430758764&sr=1-1&keywords=bose+q3[2]
Friend highly recommended them, but I've heard Bose is overpriced. These look relatively cheap, but I am wary of buying used.
Sennheiser - Audiophile Over-the-ear Headphones - Titan
Recommended by a bot over at /r/audiophiles. Looks solid enough, and super in my price range
Thoughts?
Appreciate any and all feedback with this.
Hey all - new here with an upcoming birthday, and I had a couple questions before taking the plunge on amazon. I want a solid pair of comfortable headphones for work/studying, travel, etc. I mostly listen to indie, hip hop, electronic(chilled out, nothing too dubby), and general rock. Noise cancellation would be a big plus. What kind of headphones would you recommended for under $160? Here a few options I was looking at:
Sennheiser HD 558 - http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1430758242&sr=1-2&keywords=sennheiser+598
Seem to be good based on what little I've read around here, and are on sale. Would they work with the kind of music I listened well?
Friend highly recommended them, but I've heard Bose is overpriced. These look relatively cheap, but I am wary of buying used.
Thoughts? Appreciate any and all feedback with this.
Same price on amazon with 2 day shipping... http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1428595507&sr=8-1&keywords=558
Non-mobile:
^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?
Alternatively to the ATH-AD700x + Zalman, I'd consider:
and
http://www.modmic.com/collections/frontpage/products/modmic-4-0
The modmic is going to sound a WHOLE lot better than a Zalman and is all-around a much nicer product. It's a lot more expensive though, as you can tell.
The HD558 is the HD598's little, and way less ugly brother. It's super-comfortable, sounds very good and spacious, and should last you a long, long time.
http://www.modmic.com/collections/frontpage/products/modmic-4-0
$150 and it'll be a shitload better than a shitty console headset.
Depends on what you're wanting to spend but honestly, when anyone mentions how Astros, Razer, etc are good quality, I just kinda laugh. I thought the same until doing some actual research and not just following the hype.
I use a set of Sennheiser HD 558s for my headphones, amazing quality, super comfortable, and don't cause much sweating. The way are designed makes it sound like you are in a room full of speakers, not wearing headphones. Sometimes I actually wonder if my 5.1s are on and I'm wearing headphones for no reason haha. However, Sennheiser and Audio Technica make the best headphones.
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1423343829&sr=8-1&keywords=sennheiser+hd+558
As for a mic, go with an XLR mic if you want the best quality, however if you get an XLR mic, they usually don't come with a mount, so you will probably need to get a stand or something for it, however the quality is much better than USB. I use an Audio Technica AT2020 XLR with Behringer Q502USB. Good setup, especially if you are new to mixer / xlr mic setups. The Q502USB allows you to adjust your highs, lows, pan, as well as has the 48v phantom power needed for a condenser mics, and has a compressor. Even if you yell at the top of your lungs, the compressor will keep the sound in a good range, not blow out anyone's ears and keep it from being distorted. I love this setup and I would recommend it to anyone. If you don't want to go XLR, then get yourself with a Samson Meteor USB mic (cheaper but better than the snowball and almost as good as the Yeti) or the USB version of the AT2020 (better quality, and better looking than the Yeti).
Samson Meteor: http://www.amazon.com/Samson-Meteor-Studio-Microphone-Titanium/dp/B00FQE337M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1423344167&sr=8-2&keywords=Samson+Meteor
Behringer Q502USB: http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-Q502USB-5-Channel-Mixer/dp/B00CTKI10A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1423344238&sr=8-1&keywords=Behringer+Q502usb
Well, a pair of headphones can be expensive for two reasons:
The biggest offenders in the #3 category are Beats, Skullcandy and Bose. Some companies that make good headphones at reasonable prices are Sennheiser, AKG and Beyerdynamic (sometimes known as "the big three"), Grado, Shure, Audio-Technica and Sony—though there's a number of others.
It's difficult to explain how better headphones sound better than cheaper ones. (There's an old saying that writing about music is like dancing about architecture...) You may try reading Amazon reviews for $100+ headphones from some of these brands, written by folks who never before had expensive headphones. A typical comment is that they are able to hear details in their favorite music that they had never noticed before.
Navigating descriptions about headphones' sound is generally very confusing. It also doesn't help that different people listen to different music and have different preferences about how headphones should sound. For example, some people like very strong bass; others complain that with most headphones that have very strong bass, the bass is too "slow" (bass notes that start and end suddenly don't have enough impact). So unless you can listen to various headphones in person before you purchase, you're perhaps shooting in the dark.
Some recommendations:
Maybe this one?
http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A
You'll have better luck at /r/headphones.
I'd advise against getting a headset. Buy something like the HD 558, or the HD 518, then clip a cheap mic onto the cable.
Whatever you do, don't buy a gaming headset. You'll end up overpaying for a crappy set of headphones with a build in mic.
If you're super cheap, a set of headphones plugged into your mic input will work, in a pinch. They'll sound terrible, adn you'll have to boost your mic output under recording devices, but it'll work.
If you wanna buy a set of good headphones, I can help you with that. I just finished a bunch of reseach that ended up with me getting a pair of HD 558s for ~$80 refurbished.
Now that you've realized sound is important, you should get a nice set of headphones, and a separate mic if you playing online. Being able to hear the lowest of lows, and the highest of highs will make you want to go back to old games just to see what your ears missed.
Currently rocking Sennheiser HD 558s with Livewire Headphone amp. I'd recommend getting USB DAC instead since the headphones pick up the amp's sound floor (light hissing/white noise).
Guess I'll have to go swing by a store and see if they got them.... Cannot order online.
70 on amazon - I guess if the store doesn't have them this is my option.
Better soundstage, better quality, better frequency sprectrum
Couple of dollars more than a VOID headset and miles ahead. Lets not even take into consideration the fact that the ATH-M50s go on sale for 99 all the time, and the Sennheiser HD598s are usually on sale too.
ok, so the HDMI will be carrying the audio from the PS4 to your monitor. You will be able to connect your headset to your monitor for the PS4 sound.
Welcome to the life of the <strong>Sennheiser HD 558</strong>
Pair it with the <strong>Antlion Mod-Mic 4.0 Uni-Directional</strong>
You will not need an amp or anything, just plug the 558 into the monitor for sound, and plug the mod-mic into the PS4 controller.
I have the 558, like they are almost as good as they get for gaming. What does <strong>Reddit</strong> think about A40 vs 558?
Comes out cheaper with that set-up, and the quality is far more superior.
And of course, this set-up will work with your PC, as well.
I would purchase Windows 10. It's not much more expensive and it easier to take with you if you ever upgrade your motherboard. If you get 7/8.1 and upgrade, it stays on your motherboard.
As for peripherals, these matter a lot in my opinion. They're what you use to physically interact with your sweet PC. I recommend a mechanical keyboard. Depending on your budget, there are many many different kinds you can get. I recommend looking at what Corsair has to offer. They have very nice mechs.
I also really recommend the Logitech G502. It's not my first mouse, but it's the first mouse I love. It's comfortable, looks good, has buttons that are fully remapable, and is Logitech so you know it's gonna be good.
Headphones are also important (at least for me). If you aren't gonna be using speakers most of the time, don't sell yourself short with crappy earbuds. A great entry level hi-fi pair of headphones are the Sennheiser HD 558. I cannot recommend these enough. They're only $100 right now which is a steal also.
http://www.amazon.ca/Sennheiser-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A
Amazon Canada has a good deal right now. Might be with it with shipping
If you don't want to spend that much money consider buying these headphones instead. They are (supposedly) almost identical with a few minor differences. HD558's can be also be easily modded to sound even more like 598's.
Don't buy a 'gaming' headset. Unless you go with a Sennheiser (which, on it's own is an excellent audio company) PC 350/360, it's not going to be as good as a solid set of Headphones & a separate mic. You're paying extra for the convenience of a built-in microphone, which will also be sub-par quality.
Same price on amazon as of 7pm PST 10/7/14
Sennheiser HD558 or HD598 with Vmoda BoomPro Mic . With this combination you basically have a headset.
If your requirements are something easily portable that can run fine on absolutely anything, then I would suppose the M50's are the best bet, but wait for them to drop in price or get them used. They have shot up to $150 in recent months, and they really shouldn't cost that much.
My personal choice at that price would be the Sennheiser 558's which can easily be modded to the more expensive 598. The downside though is that these aren't really portable, since they leak sound and should be used with an amp/dac.
No matter what you choose a headset is going to require multiple wires. For mic quality no gaming headset is going to give you good quality (and they'll give you even worse sound quality). This setup is around the same as the Astros with their mixamp and is infinitely better quality in both sound and mic along with comfort.
If money is no option you could also get the AKG 701's which are amazing headphones.
Also here's a little quality comparison with the mod mic to other headsets.
People who say Astros are good don't know what good headphones actually sound like.
I use a pair of Sennheiser hd 558s ( http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-504631-HD-558-Headphones/dp/B004FEEY9A ). In my opinion, they are the best headphones you will find for under $150 as far as gaming is concerned. Sennheiser's HD line is known for the quality of its soundstage (the ability to recreate the illusion of space and depth, which is obviously very desirable for an fps gamer). They are a bit weak on bass, but for pure gaming they are as good as they come.
Go for the 558s. Same driver and cheaper. Also the material used in the headband is a felt-type material rather than a fake leather/plastic. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sennheiser-High-Headphones-E-A-R-Technology/dp/B004FEEY9A/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1385408370&sr=1-1&keywords=Sennheiser+HD+558
How about these: Sennheiser HD 558
The 558s are closed back. Couldn't spend a couple seconds to google it. Dumbass Amazon Link
>more than double this price
This is 49.99. On Amazon they are 92.99. That's not more than double this price.
On Bestbuy it's even cheaper at 69.99 which is 20% more than the cost the hyperx headset.