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As a Beyerdynamic fanboi, how about the DT 770 Pro 80 ohm?
- Costs around $150 on Amazon (with over 6 thousand reviews with an average 4.5 stars)
- Easy to drive, so you won't need an amp
- V-shaped sound profile (emphasis on bass and treble, neutral mids) for fun and drama
- Excellent sound quality for music
- Excellent characteristics for gaming: -5dB isolation, wide soundstage, good imaging.
- Perhaps the most comfy headphones in the world?
- Also available in headset form
- Custom Game One Pro (with cable mic, $150)
- MMX 300 (with boom mic, $300)
Personally I combine mine with a AntLion ModMic Uni to great effect.
The XM3 are the best wireless headphones on the planet in literally every aspect you are looking for besides gaming id say. But for the possible upcoming XM4, I am not sure what to say towards that. Obviously it’ll be better, but by how much and if that much is worth waiting another several months, especially till possibly AFTER your upcoming flights in August.
As for gaming, if it’s PC or console, get yourself a good HyperX headset since your budget is $450. I really have no idea how the XM3s handle gaming. But I own the XM3s and they are the absolute best you can get with wireless ANC headphones. If you are NEEDING a pair of amazing headphones, get the XN3s now. But if it absolutely isn’t necessary and you can wait; wait for the XM4.
HyperX Headset:
HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset - 7.1 Surround Sound - Memory Foam Ear Pads - Durable Aluminum Frame - Multi Platform Headset - Works with PC, PS4, PS4 PRO, Xbox One, Xbox One S - Red (KHX-HSCP-RD) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SAYCXWG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_i2SgDb1N01ET5
From owning many, many headphones for bus travel / studying / working I recommend wireless active noise cancelling headphones. The Bose Quiet Comforts are excellent but pricey. The Sony WH-XB900N don't have nearly as good noise cancelling but are closer to $150 and go on sale a lot. These refurb Sony WH-CH700N are only $80
I had these Game One's before going with the Sennheiser Jubilee 58x and Modmic 4 setup. The 58x is easy to drive, and sound amazing! I also had the Philips SHP9500, and it did not sound nearly as good as the 58x, but it's so much cheaper that it's well within your budget. If listening to music is important to you, then I believe the separate mic setup would be a much better fit. Otherwise, I highly recommend the Game One's.
>One of the reasons I purchased the Drop THX AAA 789 was its option for multiple outputs that run at the same time.
It's possible with any headphone amp using a splitter.
>Can someone clarify why it is important to stay above a parallel impedance of of 16Ω?
The amp likely runs out of current (clips).
>Based on my understanding it would be perfectly fine to run for example two pairs of HD6XXs (300 Ω ), which result to a parallel impedance of 150 Ω with no risk?
Yep.
>Is there any issue running two headphones that have drastically different impedances? For example the HD6XX (300 Ω ) and the Focal Clears (55 Ω ) leading to a parellel impedance of ~46 Ω .
No, but the Clear will be much louder than the 6XX.
>My current understanding is that you just shouldn't run two very low impedance headphones/IEMs causing you to overdrive one or both of them? For example two 28 Ω impedance headphones will result to a parallel impedance of 14 Ω . Is this correct?
Correct.
>Would be great if THX AAA 789 owners could answer here.
THX Gang.
>Do any of you actually run two headphones at the same time out of this AMP?
Yes.
>Did you experience any issues?
Nope.
If you want try an on ear, open headphone, the KPH30i sounds very good for the price.
Lighweight, fairly comfortable (not something I would wear for hours), and easy to drive. I like to use mine out in the yard when I wouldn't take my nicer headphones
https://www.amazon.com/Koss-KPH30ik-Headphones-Microphone-Lightweight/dp/B075FBRYM1/
Amazon has free returns, so free shipping back if you don't like them.
What I think you are looking for is better quality with isolation not volume. I have a really old pair or Shure E2C earbuds (newer is SE215) with foam tips but they are closer to $100. They block all external noise to a creepy level so you can hear everything in the audio stream with zero external noise. This noise isolation works for both you and everyone around you, that is you wont hear them and they wont hear you. I bought these specifically for subway train commute so I did not have to hear anything.
The reason you don't need volume is that when these are shoved into your ear hole correctly they are pointing the audio directly at your ear drum and not just blasting noise in its general vicinity. If you take the E2C's and wiggle them a bit you will hear a massive audio quality change ranging from crappy apple earbuds to making you cry man tears. Needless to say you want them an the man tears setting. For me it took about two weeks to get used to the extra outward pressure that you get with these foam tips and you should expect quite a bit of discomfort as they conform to your ears during that period.
tl:dr - yes there are earbuds that are dead silent to others even when turned to eleven, just make sure they are really in ear with isolating material and not just hanging in your ear like stock crapple earbuds.
Foam tips I'm using https://www.amazon.com/Shure-EAORF2-10M-Included-QuietSpot-Earphones/dp/B001LEH7LE/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=shure+foam+tips&qid=1575844458&s=musical-instruments&sr=1-4
Where do you live? XM4s are not cheap at all.
Anyway, save your money and don't spend on a portable DAC. The difference will not be noticeable.
The XM4s are not audiophile headphones, they are not focused on providing audio quality, but on having an excellent ANC
Currently i use this to hang my headphones, they held up really well despite the one i got had slightly thinner wood and they sure look nice too imo 👌🏻
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SKJNCXM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_nCcgFb6NGVHD7
The Anker liberty sound core buds have been working well for me. Good sound and minimal connectivity issues, more troublesome on my windows PC than on my phone. They have the airpod design but I have found that I can run/exercise with them no problem.
I have the same issue, the most common fix ive fond is a 3.5mm extension cable (female to male basically) such as this one: https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-3-5mm-Stereo-Plug-Cable/dp/B003NN1XZM/
Bang & Olufsen H9i would fit your budget. You get better audio and anc quality. You can full blast the volume and not hear a single distortion while listening to audio. However, it will cost you $500. You might be able to find one for less on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Bang-Olufsen-Headphones-Cancellation-Transparency/dp/B078HSVK7M?th=1
I have the 560s with a cable boom microphone and it's perfect. Although I don't think the BTR5 can support a mic input so maybe just power the headphone with the mic through a headphone splitter to the PC, unless you have a standalone mic that you use. I use the setup to play Apex and COD so it's great at imaging.
Here's the mic in case you're interested: Cable Boom Microphone - Volume Control for Playstation PS4 or Xbox One Controller, PC - Boompro Gaming Mic Compatible with Bose QC25, QC35 II, QC35, QuietComfort 25/35 Headphones(150CM) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07W3W9LHV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_V6KQVP4M4FP9KSM7MTV8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
You may be wondering why a lot of people are advocating for different earbuds/IEMs and the simple answer is that you're paying too much for those Skullcandy.
They will sound very poorly, will likely break soon and are not worth the current price. For the same price, you can get better IEMs.
As others have recommended, get the Blon 03 for bass, the Tin T2 for the treble/highs, get the Final Audio E1000 for a neutral/flat sound or the Final Audio E2000 for a V shaped sound (bass and treble are the focus).
If you want something wireless for sports with a focus on detail, get the Tranya Rimor: https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-Wireless-TRANYA-Headphones-Classical/dp/B07ZNCDGM6/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Tranya%2Brimor&qid=1596380156&sr=8-2&th=1&psc=1
If you want something wireless for sports with bass, get these: https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-Wireless-TRANYA-Headphones-Classical/dp/B083K8J8RZ/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Tranya%2Brimor&qid=1596380156&sr=8-2&th=1&psc=1&ref_=d6k_applink_bb_marketplace
These will all sound much better for a similar price than the Skullcandy. If I had to choose between the two that you posted, the first link would be better due to the earbuds lasting much longer on average. That has been a problem for Skullcandy so I would stay clear of the second link.
If this has been useful, do give thanks by saying "! thanks" as that's the way to do so.
Dude, just get a headphone splitter and use one side.
This thing is $8 and can independently control volume without affecting windows volume. Both sides are stereo.
problem solved.
I have no experience with them but according to SimilarWeb they get a lot of traffic.
Sennheiser HD600 + FIIO K5 Pro
I currently have this setup and it sounds amazing.
You will need an RCA to 3.5mm cable to connect it to a computer (headphone jack or speaker jack in the back of a desktop) to use the dac inside the computer. Here is a link to one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002JTOLH8?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details
If you have a different audio source you may need a different cable.
If you want automatic noise cancelling, I highly recommend the Sennheiser PXC-550 II.
Very good sound, if a touch light on bass, solid noise cancelling and excellent fit and comfort. $197 at Amazon and a much better value package than the Sony XM3 or XM4 or the Bose 700 or QC35 II.
(sorry if posted in wrong thread)
New to Reddit. Kindly someone suggest Headphones 25$ for gaming ? over the ear ? cheap good ones. amazon US ?
I read that These are cheap and very good. but they are only available as used. should i get the used ones or are there any new/better. i am not from US but my friend from US will bring them to me soon. you guys are lucky to have stores like Amazon :D
Hifiman Deva.
Squarely in your budget, decently built, come with a Bluetooth module, can be driven by pretty much anything, are planar, etc.
For 300? You can't get much better.
here you go mate: it's a 6XX designed for Japanese men who don't want to mess up their meticulously gelled lid. Seriously, the designer's favourite headphone was the HD650 and this measures very similarly. Weighs almost nothing too.
Edit: comparison graph
The HE-350, even at $60 CAD…it’s really not a great headphone, and there’s a good reason as to why you’re finding it so cheap—the person who is selling it at $60 found out the hard way.
I own the HE-350, and I much preferred their follow up, the HE-35X, and now they’ve got the HE-X4 which launched in that same price bracket.
I honestly think you should wait. I prefer Koss Porta Pros over the HE-350. If you’re new to audiophile headphones, you really don’t want to sour that experience right off the bat with such a controversial headphone, IMO.
You’d be better off getting some in-ear monitors like this which will have far more clarity over the HE-350. There are many excellent budget IEM options that will handily beat those HE-350.
https://www.amazon.ca/Terminator-Headset-Headphones-Cancelling-Earphones/dp/B088NQP1DC
Meze 99 are very easy to drive. There's no reason to rush to buy any external amplification for them.
So you might want to wait and get them, and then see what you think. And then if you don't feel like spending any more money, but still want to try a better source, the Meizu Hifi will easily drive them
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Meizu-MasterHIFI-Converter-Headphone-Amplifier-Black/dp/B08H89VZKQ/
And these tips too
Comply Isolation Noise Cancelling Memory Foam Earphone Tips for Anker Soundbuds, KZ ZST, SoundPEATS Q30, Symphonized NRG 3.0 and More, Premium Replacement Noise Reducing Earbud Tips T-500 (Small/Medium/Large, 3 Pair) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B002DY92UA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_V6AXBG0TNBJSS78Q62ZX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This could be because of the sound, as both the bass and the treble are quite intense. You could tweak EQ settings if it's that. If it's the actual comfort of them I highly recommend getting some foam ear tips, they're more comfortable than silicone ones. If you want a cable like the other user suggested, I really recommend this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08N4KQ67N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_kSQbGbF32SGCH?psc=1 and believe me, it's worth the 30 bucks just because of the quality, not sure if it's gonna make your ears less sore tho.
Amazon has them for that price but note that they are the Buds, not Buds Plus. There isn't much difference in sound quality but I think the Buds Plus is better for batter life and etc...
At that budget most "wireless" headphones will be pretty bad... That said I've heard good things about Anker soundbuds...
It doesn't have to be these that you pick up, but if you really want something that's a step up from the no name Bluetooth wireless buds that are everywhere, try to find out if your audio source (phone I assume) can use aptx. If you have an iPhone then you can't. If you can use aptx then look for buds with aptx and also generally good reviews I suppose. You can use a fake review checker if you're browsing through amazon to make sure that the reviews are legit, like this one:
Hope you find what you're looking for!
You may have saved yourself US$1.45 off the Prime eligible US$29.99 price from Amazon in exchange for slow delivery and a low change of being able to track your package.
The active drop of the Massdrop x Koss Porta Pro X Headphones is for US$37.99
Look into the 1More Triple Driver Over Ear
https://www.amazon.com/1MORE-Headphones-Comfortable-Tangle-Free-Smartphones/dp/B0798TVDVJ/
They are currently at a very low price, and Amazon has free returns on them. So you get free shipping back if you don't like them.
They're also fairly easy to drive.
Fully agree. How many CD do you have? You can easily rip 600+ CDs (~8000 songs) worth as high quality (320kbps) MP3s using Lame + Exact Audio Copy via a laptop or PC that has a CD/DVD drive and and fit them on a 64GB micro SD card. Such cards cost a mere $10 these days.
A cheap MP3 player of off Amazon that would work with it costs less than than $20: https://www.amazon.com/Dyzeryk-Support-Speaker-Recorder-Supports/dp/B082HGGXSB
No CD's to worry about losing or carrying around, much smaller, more rugged, more portable, and will last/play a lot longer - plus other bonuses like shuffle playing the entire collection, playlists, etc.
If you are really dead set on a CD player, another option you can explore is just using a laptop or PC with an external CD/DVD drive. If you don't have one, they make USB compatible external ones that are dirt cheap ($20) and it would play music CD's just fine via your laptop or PC.
Properly powered, the 770-80 can deliver very deep, textured, powerful bass when the music calls for it. So, something is very wrong here :), but, it's an easy fix.
Low volume and poor bass response are the first indicators that headphones are being underpowered. You need an amp. Might I suggest a FiiO E10K? It has excellent quality and is cheap.
I also did this. It is very much worth doing. A 5 second google search for "beyerdynamic cable braiding" returned this result: https://lifehacker.com/braid-long-cords-for-better-cable-management-1477800487
I understand what you are saying and I think I found a webpage that has a few good options that are reasonably priced, durable, and well reviewed. I hope this sight helps. Feel free to ask me any questions you may have. I just mention I am not super knowledgeable on earbuds. I know 1more has some really good stuff at a good price and it's earbud is number one on the list. The klipsch earbud mentioned is another one that might be a good match and is more affordable than the 1more. Here is the link https://www.slant.co/topics/882/~best-rugged-and-durable-earbuds-iems-that-last
It really depends on the source and the encoding process.
As Apple described they are able to get better dynamic range than a lossless CD rip since they encode straight from the higher-bit masters.
It's probably why I can't tell the difference between Apple Music and Tidal on my Focal Clear with Schiit Lyr3 / Bifrost2.
Start with your computer's headphone jacks. If you are a gamer, do you buy gaming computers? Motherboards specifically targeted for gamers tend to have good audio.
If you have older computers or inexpensive laptops where the audio is suspect, consider a USB audio adaptor. Check this site for some reviews. All just one guys opinion, but he's keeping up to date with the latest, and for the handful of dongles I've tested his opinions seem to match pretty well with my experiences. And honestly, it's worth having at least one of these around just in case.
Headphones is where I think you will get the most bang for your buck. For the Phillips models, check on Amazon in the used section, as they are often available from one of the major Phillips retailers there in "like new" condition at very good prices. I think those are your best value option.
If you go for one of the Sennheisers, the 560s is a good choice because it is also easy to drive, and should do fine with one of those common dongles, or your computer headphone jack. The 58x and 6xx require a little more to fully appreciate them.
I recently got the 58x summer special myself, and was initially a little disappointed. When connecting with 1 Vrms dongles (Apple USB-C and Meizu Hifi), it was plainly underperforming my Phillips SHP9600. After adding this $25 dongle, I'm happier now with the 58x. Perhaps something better would help even more.
So I'll say that in my experience, while you will get enough volume @ 1 Vrms with the 58x, you will hear substantial improvement in the frequency response curve stepping up to something a little more (1.4-2.0 Vrms). And I expect the related 6xx model (even slightly more power demanding) would behave similarly.
PDP Gaming LVL30 Wired Chat Headset With Noise Cancelling Microphone: Black - Xbox https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VFCCTP1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AD4V0A3M00Y3ENN00D6G
My real advice? Have her buy her own shit if she ruins and loses it all the time.
In that case, I think you'd really enjoy the SHP 9500. My PS4 controller is not able to sufficiently power the SHP 9500, but a laptop will be able to. I used my SHP 9500 on a laptop for a while too. I would strongly suggest getting at least a cheap USB DAC. My laptop has a lot of noise straight out of the headphone jack and I got this USB DAC and it sounded far better. The SHP 9500 does have good bass, just not as much as a closed back. You can always EQ it to give it a little more bass. I actually enjoy my SHP 9500 better in some violin tracks because of the wider soundstage.
You could always try bone conduction, which doesn't even touch your ears. Don't bother with any other company, as Aftershokz is the only one that makes transducers worth a damn.
AFTERSHOKZ Air Open-Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones with Reflective Strips, Slate Grey, AS650SG-BR https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G3HTB1X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_i_EDG17BRE73RQ770AZKEB
These are annoyingly expensive from being such a niche product, but i use them myself and they have their advantages.
Sony Xperia Ear Duo True Wireless headset – Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079WDK6S3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_i_0TRNEQ4YRKW3NMESJTDX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
KZ ZS10 Pro
Cable replacement w/ 2.5mm balanced.
HiFiHear 16 Core Silver Plated Upgrade Replacement Audio Cable,Balanced IEM Cable C Pin 0.78mm Audio Detachable Replacement Cable for KZ ZSN ZSN Pro AS16 CCA A10 CA4 QDC Series (C-PIN, 2.5MM)HiFiHear 16 Core Silver Plated Upgrade Replacement Audio Cable,Balanced IEM Cable C Pin 0.78mm Audio Detachable Replacement Cable for KZ ZSN ZSN Pro AS16 CCA A10 CA4 QDC Series (C-PIN, 2.5MM)
(No link as there is no more in stock.. but at least you know which one to buy.
If you are interested in portable options, it is worth also considering those with bluetooth ability, such as the Qudelix-5k, or Fiio BTR5k or BTR3k. Typically these can also connect via USB when you don't need the bluetooth ability.
But if you are sticking to iems, and won't be needing to drive over the ear headphones, you really have no need for an external amp at all, as iems are very easy to drive. The FH7 especially needs very little power.
On top of which, the DAC on the inexpensive Apple lighting to USB dongle is quite decent. So maybe start there.
And that may be all you need. But if you do want something better, and don't want the bluetooth, the Fiio Q1 Mark II is an Apple certified DAC/amp which comes with a lightning to micro usb adaptor for use with iphones. Even with the iems, I do think you might hear some improvement over the Apple dongle with this. But I think it will be small.
>Currently I will only use them with my shure se846, moondrop blessing 2, grado sr60e and b&o h6 but I am planning on getting a zmf aeolus in the future.
All of those except for the ZMF are fairly easy to drive and can be driven by a dongle. There are dongles that measure highly accurate and would sound the same as the JDS Labs Atom stack or Heresy/Modi.
In fact, I have two Tempotec Sonata HD Pro dongles because I use one as a DAC with my THX 789, and previously with the Atom amp, on Windows, and keep the other with my phone. It sounded the same as my $250 Topping D50S desktop DAC, so I got rid of the D50S.
And it should. The measurements indicate its noise and distortion levels are such that they should be inaudible, just like the Modi and Atom DAC+
https://www.amazon.com/TempoTec-Sonata-HD-PRO-Android/dp/B084YX4MZD/
So you might start with one of those and an Atom or Heresy amp, and then you have it to use with the phone. If you have an iphone, they do have it version on Amazon for it.
And then later on, you could upgrade to the matching desktop DAC and still have the Sonata HD Pro for mobile use. Or you might do like me and just get another Sonata HD Pro.
if you dont mind open backs^ I also have Status Audio CB-1 Closed Back Studio Monitor Headphones as my closed backs using the same mic. $59.00
https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Wireless-Headset-Black-Tico/dp/B084TFWTH5/
Better audio than the Razer. Don't know anything about the Virtuoso. These G733 have a couple of more features than those other headphones software-wise, but the mic isn't better or worse than the rest, just okay. I'd imagine it feels very similar to the Arctic 7P with the mesh pads.
Not particularly a pick that is an obvious choice over the other choices, but it's good for its price IMO.
I think a really good dac/amp is the Audient Evo 4 which can easily run your HD 660s, it has really great features, you can connect your speakers, your 2 XLR microphones, a musical instrument like an electric guitar, and of course your Headphones. you can control the volume for your speakers/headphones with the big dial at the top, and the volume of your microphones, just click 1 or 2 to select which microphone you want to control and use the volume dial to set the volume. if you have your headphones and microphone connected to the Evo 4, you can control how much you want to hear yourself when you speak to the microphone, or how much you want to hear whatever you're doing on your computer, that way you can balance whether you want to hear both, just yourself, or just the game.
I hope you found this helpful
Bye!
Maybe, but I used to have one of those and the audio quality isn't that great. personally, I'd go for something like the Phillips x2HR with a V-Moda Boompro mic. They are open back with great soundstage and imaging, which is perfect for gaming. The only downside compared to the Razer Nari is that it isn't wireless.
This is $70 off so it's $129 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HZ6YWNB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_CS8TWG2YVS94W878YMK2
It supports a cable and is also wireless
That plus the optional insurance seems like a good deal to me if you aren't doing a ton of music
The mic retracts into the headset which is nice
I'm assuming you're using the btr5 on high gain and not low gain.
I would try a balanced cable first. If you look at the independent measurements for the UP4, which is fairly similar to the BTR5, the power boost is quite significant for higher impedance when you switch to balanced output
I believe the HD560S uses the same cable connection as the HD598 and HD599. This balanced cable on Amazon has free returns, which means free return shipping if you don't like it
I believe the HD598/599 cable is the same.
I have used this brand of aftermarket cables with other headphones, and they have worked great https://www.amazon.com/NewFantasia-Replacement-Sennheiser-Headphones-1-5meters/dp/B00KAKGQCQ/
I am using a set of OneOdio headphones Amazon
Install EqualizerAPO and Peace and tweak bass. They sound pretty good for the price.
Meze 99 Neo. Monoprice Modern Metro or 1060C are other possibilities
Thanks! According to Amazon they’re still “pro”, but they could be wrong. I think my piano has a built in amp but I wouldn’t be interested in 250 ohms:
It's well known now by many DT 1990 owners that if you want the best sound you just buy a pair of the brainwavz round velour pads for the headphone. I've tested about 10 different pads on my DT 1990, and the brainwavz ones are the best sounding. They completely remove the 8kHz spike, improve soundstage, and also improve bass. IMO, Beyerdynamic should have just put these pads on the headphone all along. With these pads, the headphones sound excellent.
it's just as thin of wire underneath but the slightly more expensive Monoprice cables hold up better to regular wear and tear in my experience.
Well, most of the headphones that I mentioned can make use of modular mics like the SHP9500.
All of the Sivga models, the H6gen.2, the Custom Studio (Beyer also sells their own modular mic), and the Fidelio L2 can all use the VModa BoomPro, just like the SHP9500. The Pro82 can use a modular mic with a 2.5mm jack, like this one.
sennheiser 560s. it’s much better than the 58x if you can’t stretch for 6xx and it’s cheaper.
then get a meizu dongle as a great portable dac amp for v cheap (you can just use a cheap usbc to usba adapter if your pc doesn’t have usb-c) that’ll be plenty powerful to drive the 560s
Do you need a DAC?
Honestly IEMs aren't usually hard to drive and a DAC kinda useless if your phone still has a headphone jack of course.
The Apple Dongle is cheap and good. No reason to spend more unless you have a specific need to fill.
Really. DACs are simple and not really crazy tech, if all you need is just a DAC, the Apple Dongle does an excellent job.
There are lots of devices people also tend to call DACs but are actually a bunch of things, the FiiO BTR5 for example. That's a DAC, and an amp, and it does Bluetooth, and has an app and symmetric output and a whole bunch of stuff. If you need a device that does all of these things, you should spend a good bit more than 30$ to get something actually decent (like the FiiO).
But really, you most likely don't. Phones generally drive anything that isn't in 100+ Ohm territory just fine and also generally sound just fine. Don't buy into the audiophile hype of needing this and that and whatever to get great sound. The vast majority of your gear will sound the exact same no matter if it's your phone or an expensive tower of boxes that fandangle your audio. Especially if you're just using IEMs.
Buy things for a purpose. If you have headphones that need a lot of juice, buy an amp that can provide that juice. If you want a specific feature, buy the thing that has that feature. Don't just buy stuff because the hivemind does.
Perhaps more importantly, buying better headphones is almost always the better choice. 150$ headphones and a 150$ amp won't sound as good as 300$ headphones. Simple as that. (Unless you actually need an amp of course).
If you want further reading, this is good:
http://nwavguy.blogspot.com/2011/02/gain-and-headphone-ampsdacs.html
The S9 is great if you are going to used balanced cables. But if not, then the S8 or Tempotec Sonata HD Pro is going to work about as well. You can get the Sonata HD Pro off Amazon for $60, with free return shipping if you don't like it. So I would recommend trying it
https://www.amazon.com/TempoTec-Sonata-HD-PRO-Android/dp/B084YX4MZD/
Meanwhile, I use my Sonata HD Pro as a DAC with my headphone amp. So you could always get a JDS Labs Atom or Schiit Heresy to use with later on.
I use the Tempotec Sonata HD Pro dongle with my S21+
$59 on Amazon with free returns, which means free return shipping if you don't like it
https://www.amazon.com/TempoTec-Sonata-HD-PRO-Android/dp/B084YX4MZD/
I can't tell if it's 16 or 24 bit... I'd look at something with more specs and it's name brand.
Maybe this but idk the brand https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08L9C7233/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_5MFMX0T1KAHRNYNXV901
Linsoul makes some nice thicker cables for about $17-20. Could always get these
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZQCJ7QC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_YnZ-FbV58348D?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Make sure you get the right connector for ur particular iem
Subjective. All I can say is that I listen to my 58x more than my 6xx and even my hd600 after I replaced the pads and front foam with these:
NewFantasia Replacement Earpads Compatible with Sennheiser HD650 / HD600 / HD580 / HD565 / HD545 Headphones Sheepskin Leather Memory Foam Ear Pad Cushions https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B9M6GVV/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_fabc_w4W3FbP46CS5T?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Bass is more engaging on the 58x. Mids are equal but 58x is bigger sounding. Treble detail and transient response goes to 6xx.
Then you have the price difference.
Powerbeats High-Performance Wireless Earphones - Apple H1 Headphone Chip, Class 1 Bluetooth, 15 Hours Of Listening Time, Sweat Resistant Earbuds - Black (Latest Model) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0858JWG2S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_dlC_OdT0Fb7EVE2GM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
These may interest you
Right now a renewed pair of WF-1000XM3s are $130 and I have gotten them for lower off eBay.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07X8QHKFV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_t1_odwUFb240XCA6
IMO, if you’re not planning to use any of these options while working out I’d go with the WF-1000XM3s. The sound is easily the best out of the 3 and noise canceling is in its own league. Otherwise Galaxy Buds+ if you plan on working out.
I am very happy with my KZ ES4 IEM's.
I think they sound a lot less sibilant and have much smoother treble than my KZ ZS6's.
I use the New Bee foam tips. They are similar to the Comply Brand but much cheaper.
This comes in just under $30 and is a terrific sounding combo to my ears.
yeah the DM6 is exactly $200 + 5 shipping on amazon https://www.amazon.com/BGVP-DM6-Customized-Audiophiles-Detachable/dp/B07HH33SXL
Phillips has a line of Bluetooth earbuds MyJam that have same structure and I believe they have a wired version too, though I don't remember the model name. I haven't used these particular earbuds but I have used others from Phillips and they have performed well. You can check them out on Amazon. Hope this helps.
Philips FreshTones MyJam in Ear Wireless Bluetooth Headset, Black (SHB5250BK/27) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DY57MGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8UheDb40CZGKF
Snake oil, just get the other suggestion or the Amazon Basics cables for a very solid cable with good aesthetics. Solid black, matte, minimal logos, good build quality.
wtf is this OP: https://www.amazon.com/Moondrop-Shiro-Dynamic-Earbuds-Earphones/dp/B07S2QSV68
Get the starfields or the ER2XR
If you are on android you can use this app:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.pittvandewitt.wavelet&hl=en
no root required
The really cool part is that you can load these AutoEQs from the app.
On PC you can use Peace, inputing these values and creating a profile for the headphone:
5.1 and 7.1 for gaming headphones is not true multi-channel surround. It's just digital signal processing. If you search online, you can find software to do that.
Tempotec Sonata HD Pro dongle for $40 will work well with the DT 770 80 ohm, and it measures more accurate than the E10K.
https://www.amazon.com/TempoTec-Sonata-HD-PRO-Android/dp/B084YX4MZD/
Drop 5 more pounds and get Beyerdynamic 990Pro's:
​
Edit: Theyre absolutely amazing for gaming, but check your soundcard specs, cause these are 250ohms and might sound quiet if your sound system isnt powerful enough
>Many people have mentioned that since they're 150 ohms they don't need an amp but they won't get loud without them.
That's not necessarily true. They are fairly easy to drive and work pretty well on a PC.
I would get them first, and see what you think. Don't feel you have to run out to buy an amp/DAC.
You do decide you want one, the Tempotec Sonata HD Pro dongle for $40 on Amazon measures as accurate as the best $200 desktop amp/ DACs. It just doesn't have as much power output. But plenty to drive the HD58X to moderately loud volume with crystal clear sound
https://www.amazon.com/TempoTec-Sonata-HD-PRO-Android/dp/B084YX4MZD/
It really depends on your headphones. I have some fairly easy to drive headphones and I use the FiiO K3 which is a dac/amp combo with pretty decent reviews. I was skeptical at first due to it's lower power compared to some stand alone amps but it powers well. The dac is unnecessarily good when you have it in 32bit mode. I've seen some people mention success with the older version (e10k) and those specific headphones so I would assume the newer, better one should work too. That is assuming you need an amp/dac at all. My onboard sound has shielding and is a 32bit dac with good reviews but I use that for my speakers. I am also pretty new to this stuff so maybe one of the smarter people can come along and give a better opinion.
I’m going to hop in here with another recommendation. Not wireless, noise canceling, or anything. Koss KSC75 https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0006B486K/
Ears won’t get sweaty, no problems falling out of canal, 4ft cord, cheap enough that you won’t feel bad shoving them in a sweaty shoe.
I don’t understand. You say you’re ok with a neckband, but you say you don’t want what I recommend with a neckband? All IEMs made for sound quality don’t come with a Bluetooth cable (or as a complete package). I don’t know what you mean with “not as comfortable”. All you would need to do is remove the stock cable and replace it with something like this or this. If you can stretch your budget, then I’d recommend the FiiO FH5...with a replacement Bluetooth cable for a total of around $280-$300. What I outline above will give you literally everything you want and meets all of your requirements; I have to assume that there is some form of misunderstanding. There is not a “complete package” at any price point better than these.
I don't check on in ear posts usually, because I am not up to news with the latest in ear tech because I occasionally get pimples in my ears, but I just couldn't pass through this beautifully written post :). Every major review site, at least that's a tech related website, not those serious headphone amateur website, crown jabra elite 65t as the best, although they were created for sports, their durability is probably good, considering many people use them for exercising and complain about them failing. Also I pick I would really consider if looking for something durable would be this or v moda crossfade 2 wireless, although they are different, they are durable and atleast for the jabra move, very compact which makes it great for commuting
The Kato, Tanchjim Hana(2021), Final Audio E4000 and the Tri i3 Pro are the best bet under in that price category that doesn't offend any sensibilities but since you're a beginner you may still favour V Shaped tuning so get the Truthear x Crinacle Zero (https://www.amazon.com/TRUTHEAR-Crinacle-Earphone-Dynamic-Drivers/dp/B0B7DS1QHZ) first... Then you can go from there to the Kato or anyone I've listed u/txrtlebruh
I have the same phone and I settled on the HiBy FC3:
HiBy FC3 USB DAC Headphone Amp... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09YLVW9MQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
The reason I like this one is because I don't have to worry about the cable being damaged eventually and it has volume/next/previous buttons.
MQA and DSD support too, I use them with my audexe lcd 1 and my tin t2 plus
a friend and i have been putting together this database of headphones with some prices/reviews that you can sort/filter if you want to browse that! we've mainly ported over the headphone assistant so far but are continuing to add more to it. hope this helps!
a friend and i have been putting together this database of headphones with some prices/reviews that you can sort/filter if you want to browse that! we've mainly ported over the headphone assistant so far but are continuing to add more to it. hope this helps!
a friend and i have been putting together this database of headphones (filtered by open back) with some prices/reviews if you want to browse that! we've mainly ported over the headphone assistant so far so it might not be super up to date but are continuing to add more to it. hope this helps at least a bit!
By the way, there happens to be a torrent here for the vinyl album of Nier Automata in DSD if you are interested. That's where I tried mine out and seems to deliver great results if your setup can handle it, try it out. Weight of the World sounds heavenly on it.
You can get a cheaper USB dac , this was the first one I bought : https://www.amazon.co.uk/XtremPro-X1-1-Performance-Headphone-Amplifier-Grey/dp/B07P6SYQG9 but the Apple USB dongle has really good output and measurements for a dac and at 16Ohm the 1AM2 doesn't need an amp.
I bought the iFi because of the balanced output and there is a slight difference in sound quality, I remember the first time I switched cables on the same song I smiled as it just seemed to have a bit more clarity with the balanced cable.
There's also this one that's balanced https://www.amazon.co.uk/iBasso-Audio-DC01-High-Resolution-Balanced/dp/B083RRGGDT and much cheaper than the iFi but not in stock on Amazon most of the times. My sugestion DAC wise is to hunt for a deal or a cheap balanced dac as that would bring an improvement to the sound, besides this the headphones offer almost everything you'd expect at this price point.
You might be looking for something fancier but I use Syba Sonic with shp9500 and totally satisfied. Good bonus is that it has separate mic input.
Sleep Headphones Bluetooth Sports Headband Wireless Music Headband Handfree Sleeping Headset, IPX6 Waterproof Headphones, Perfect for Workout Travel Insomnia AMSR Meditation Yoga and Relaxation (Sleep Headphones-Gray) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B083Z6PYFD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glc_i_J9PKK7M2HQPNVRXEFG8D?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 What about something like this?
Sound improvements in cables is pretty much snake oil unless it is very poorly soldered to the connecter (you would notice lots of distortion likely). Honestly I wouldn't worry about the audio quality of a cable until after EVERYTHING else. With replacement cables there are several places to look such as hart audio, periapt or cables made by small businesses on etsy. There is also a cable I have seen a fair few people say was good on amazon if you want something cheaper-
if you have soldering skills or know someone who has soldering skills you can by replacement jacks online, you'll lose a couple inches of length tho.
Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Ancable-Replacement-Connector-Headphones-Headset/dp/B077XS77FG
They’re wireless earbuds. I just hate for you to waste your money on a product that is just rebranded from AliExpress
USB-C cables do not affect the sound.
What amp?
In general, Lightning to type-C cables don't work with DACs. They only work for charging & sync of the iOS device. There are a few non-MFi certified cables intended for use with DACs that apparently work (I was going to try this one). Otherwise you have to use a lightning camera connector + a Type A to Type C cable.
LINK for cable. It should work with the aria. I don't have the cable(i dont need a mic), but you'll be happy with the aria. It's a great iem.
Koss KPH30i
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075FBRYM1
Very cheap, designed to fit Adult sized heads.
Volume limit should be done in software on the PC.
No you’ll need a special sennheiser cable. You’ll most commonly find them listed as cables compatible with the HD598/HD599.
Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Replacement-Sennheiser-Headphones-Tangle-Free-Headphone/dp/B075Q1MPWF/ref=mp_s_a_1_10?dchild=1&keywords=hd+599+cable&qid=1627644903&sr=8-10 (or shorter).
The Qudelix 5K is a tiny bluetooth receiver DAC/AMP combo. It also has a very powerful EQ function built into it which you can control via an app. It works great to clip it to your top/pants while running, and means you can use your phone freely without worrying about the cable hanging from it all the time.
Its not critical, but after spending a bunch of money on this hobby over the past year, it’s tied with the HD560s as my best purchase.
I have never heard of the XtremPro X1-1.
This is the dongle that is often recommended on this subreddit in that budget range
https://www.amazon.com/Meizu-MasterHIFI-Converter-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B08H89VZKQ/
I'd recommend the fidelio X2 (btw, they're £100 on amazon rn) and a v-moda boom pro mic for £30. The X2 are a LOT of fun single player gaming.
Be aware that you probably want to have a quiet pc and/or adjust your fan curves to keep noise to a minimum when using open backs.
Sorry to hear about financial condition. Hope things will keep on improving.
Cheap headphones may break easily, so I would consider something sturdy. If you fine with IEMs, BLON BL-03 are cheap and sturdy, don't think it will break easily. It's comfortable to my ears.
There also cheaper IEMS that sound good like this:
However, I am not sure how durable are they.