Sennheiser HD535DSP Over-Ear Headphones with DSP-360 Surround Processor Review

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(More customer reviews)The DSP360 decoder/virtualizer, while small and lacking the 'high quality' finish of equivalent products from other makers, is surprisingly good. Several headphone enthusiast websites actually rate the DSP360 very highly, and consider it a great bargain.
my only complaint is that the unit (DSP360) defaults to 'speaker' mode when first powered up. of course, you buy this item expecting to use it with headphones, so why default to speaker mode? (And as the editorial review hints, the speaker mode is not worth the trouble.) Am I nitpicking? No, I'm trying to conserve my hearing. When in speaker mode, the volume control is basically disabled, so if the material you're listening to is very loud, you get first a shock, then painful ears. And worse, you frantically try to lower the volume, to no avail. To switch to 'headphone' mode, you have to press a button and HOLD it. It's in the manual, of course, but a lot of trouble could have been avoided if the DSP started with 'headphone' mode in the first place.
Audio is quite good, especially for the money. Using 'bypass' or disabling the 3D gives you stereo, useful when listening to CD's and other material not coded in Dolby Surround/Digital. In this mode, music really acquires 'space' and sounds more natural. I know it's not really a headphone amplifier to rival the best in the business, but the best in the business will set you back hundreds, even thousands of dollars more.
The headphones themselves are OK. You get what you pay for, as they say, and if you want still better headphones than the 535, then get the 580's. I'm saving up for those.

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Innovation and know-how - those are the hallmarks of one of the world's leading companies in the area of electro-acoustics. From individual audio products to complete system solutions - Sennheiser Electronic has the knowledge and the experience to lead the way in the constantly developing audio market. The key factors in its extraordinary success are its customer orientation, the performance of its employees, and its worldwide market presence.PRODUCT FEATURES:High quality entertainment hi-fi stereo headphone;Functional, advanced design which takes account of ergonomics;Neodymium magnets for powerful dynamics and high sensitivity;Extremely light AlCu power coils for high transient fidelity;Fresh graphic equalization - powerful bass and finely tuned treble;Very sturdy, plug-in connection cable of Kevlar fiber-reinforced;OFC copper;Gold-plated connector plug, ensuring a connection with lasting reliability for all playback equipment;Optimal wearer comfort - adjusts to allow a perfect fit.

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AUDIO TECHNICA ATH-ANC25 Noise-Canceling Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)The sound quality of these headphones is not the best, I was expecting more from a brand like Audio Technica. I like the removable cable, which also happens to have a small connector on the end which fits my iPhone 2G.
The noise canceling on these works VERY well. It takes a few seconds to recognize the noise after you turn it on, so it isn't immediately noticeable...but after a few seconds it drowns everything out. The difference is immediately noticeable when you turn the feature off.
The headphones are also very comfortable, I can wear them for hours with minimal discomfort.

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AUDIO TECHNICA ATH-ANC27 Noise-Canceling Headphones

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Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B Active Noise-Cancelling Closed-Back Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)Bose QC15 vs. Sennheiser PXC 450 vs. Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7b
Disclosure: I have tried all these on an airplane. I am not an audiophile. Noise Cancelation is the most important attribute to me.
The Carrying Case: All three are quite durable and stiff.
1.) Bose- the smallest, a low profile, room for an Ipod, accessories too.
2.) Sennheiser- Square shape, low profile, however not a lot of room for anything else in case.
3.)Audio Technica- Nice big case if you want to carry extra stuff (Nintendo DS, ipod, etc).
Build Quality:
1.) Sennheiser- you can tell this is built VERY well. Strong plastics, good components, thick cord. Top notch. You feel like you are getting something really high quality.
2.)Audio Technica- Nice solid construction, appears durable.
3.)Bose- If this had a Sanyo logo on the side, I would not have flinched. How can something $300 be so incredibly cheaply made.
Size:
1.) Bose- as far as over the ears go, these are pretty small.
2.)Audio-Technica- mid-sized.
3.)Sennheiser- These are big. No question, but they store flat.
Comfort:
1.) Sennheiser- Very comfortable, will fit almost any size ears. Keep on for hours.
2.)Bose- Also comfortable. I did not experience "highs" discomfort.
3.)Audio-Technica- Perfectly satisfactory. Larger opening than previous AT model.
Sound:
1.) Sennheiser- I actually wore these at home too, simply to hear parts of songs I had never heard before. Astounding. My 10yr old music collection sounded totally NEW.
2.)Audio-Technica- Well balanced, good sound.
3.)Bose- Great sound, but very heavy on the bass. I listen to a lot of rap and pop, so it was mildly annoying. I ultimately had to turn my treble settings up on my ipod to balance the sound.
Features:
1.) Sennheiser- nice cord, push to talk button (temporarily mutes NC and sound which is great for interruptions on airplanes).
2.)Bose/Audio Technica- just the basics. Bose simply an on/off switch.
Price:
1.) Audio Technica- $150 to $225 depending on how you shop.
2.)Sennheiser- $200 to $275
3.)Bose- Hard to find below $300+.
Noise Cancelation:
1.) Bose- No question here, far surpassed the other two. Best Noise Cancelation.
2.)Audio-Technica- Good Noise Cancelation.
3.)Sennheiser- Not sure what happened here. Incredible sound, satisfactory noise cancelation.
Summary:
I ultimately kept the Bose because I was only using these for flying and the Sennheiser's (as much as I loved them) let me down in the Noise Cancelation department. The Sennheiser's had by far the most superior sound, but the Bose Noise Cancelation was night and day. The Bose are made very poorly for a $300+ product, it was disappointing.
Final assessment:
Audio-Technica- best balance of value for money
Sennheiser- Best sound and comfort
Bose- Best Noise Cancelation


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Arrive refreshed after a long flight, avoid distractions in a noisy office, or find peace and quiet in your living room with ATH-ANC7b QuietPoint Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones.
Effectively reduces distracting background noise by 90%.

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Audio Technica ATH-FC700A Portable Headphones with 40mm Neodymium Drivers, Black Review

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(More customer reviews)Very musical with a linear frequency response to my ears. Sound is full with excellent bottom end (though could be a tad bit tighter). Silky smooth mid - range. Inner detail and soundstaging are decent though could be better. It really can't be faulted though at this price point. Overall sound is non - fatiguing for long listening sessions (the ear pads sit on the ear and do become annoying after awhile), although I did notice some bottom end clipping at higher volume levels on my ipod. I ended up purchasing a pair of Denon AH-D 1001's (and gave my 18y.o. son the A.T.'s who feels that they devour his Sennheiser PX 100's) because aside from a being more comfortable fit (goes around rather than on the ear) the inner detail, imaging and bottom end are far superior. But the Denons are also twice the price. I have to give the A.T.'s the edge in the mid range and could have easily lived with the ATH-FC700ABK's if the Denons weren't an option.

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Designed for pristine sound quality, long-wearing comfort & aesthetic design— these headphones deliver a real sense of depth to the sonic image. Newly developed 40 mm neodymium drivers ensure high quality sound with popular portable players. The headphones fold for extremely compact portability. With a lightweight body and soft ear-pads, Audio-Technica's ATH-FC700A fits comfortably around the ears for long listening.

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Audio Technica ATH-ANC1 QuietPoint Active Noise-Cancelling On-Ear Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)If you are looking for noise-canceling headphones for an MP3 player that deliver excellent sound reproduction at an affordable price, this product should be on your short list for consideration. I have owned noise-canceling headphones by Sony and Altec Lansing, as well as in-ear buds (which by their nature have a noise canceling effect) by Audio Technica and Etymotic Research, costing $200 and more. The earbuds were uncomfortable, difficult to insert and remove, and produced insufficient low-end sound and an uncomfortably sharp high-end. The noise-canceling headphones by Sony (MDR-NC6's - on ear) and Altec Lansing (over the ear) failed to produce acceptable sound in my opinion. Either they suffered from overall low fidelity (Sony MDR's), or mushy bass and poor sound separation (Altec Lansing). The Altec Lansing's were also too large to store and use easily during air travel (I fly a lot and economy of space is a major consideration). I've also owned the lower end Bose (on ear) headphones, but unfortunately found that they lived up to their snarky reputation among audiophiles (artificial sounding, way over-bassed, and a poor value for the money).
So these Audio Technica Quiet Point headphones, newly released this January, have been an extremely pleasant surprise. The sound reproduction is the best I have come across for portable music players. The overall sound is natural and full, without the juiced-up quality that some headphones substitute for real fidelity and which can quickly produce "ear-fatigue." Sound separation is excellent; bottom end sound is full and remarkably clean and sharp. The phones fit comfortably and securely, and can be worn for hours without ear-fatigue. They also reduce outside noise, whether from an airliner or a crowded coffee-shop, as well as any of the other players I've listened to.
These headphones are also well-designed. Whether you are a frequent air traveler or simply like to have your music player in your day pack for listening in a cafe or while shopping, the lightweight (1 pound) but sturdy construction, and a fold-up feature that makes the 'phones easy to store and also protects them from damage, are big plusses.
These headphones can't substitute for the fidelity of good full-size audiophile headphones for the home, but in my experience that is true with all headphones and earbuds designed for portable music players. Overall, they do a better job than any other product in this category that I have heard, and at about $100 the price can't be beat.
Highly recommended.

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The ATH-ANC1 QuietPoint headphones from Audio Technica deliver natural sound and luxurious silence in a highly compact on-ear design.These fold-flat headphones incorporate Audio Technica’s acclaimed active noise-cancelling technology to block out up to 85% of outside noise, while delivering clear, detailed and natural sound.The active noise-cancelling circuitry is located in a handy external module attached to its connecting cord, for extremely light weight on-ear wear.The headphones also work when the noise-cancelling function is turned off, and operate in passive mode without batteries.Although compact, the headphones deliver powerful, immersive sound, thanks to their precision high-efficiency full-range drivers and premium internal components.They’re ideal for use with the Apple iPod, iPhone, iPod touch, portable music players, computers and in-flight entertainment systems.

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Audio-Technica ATH-M50 Studio Monitor Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)After trying on several pairs of headphones at a local professional audio store, I finally settled on these. What I like best is that they are comfortable, even when wearing glasses, which was a major concern. Even after several consecutive hours of listening, I felt extremely comfortable.
Although I am not an audiophile, here is my best critic's review. As I type, I'm listening to an extremely high quality Mozart concerto: High notes sound crisp and clear with being 'tinny'. Mid-tones also sound fantastic. Bass is also quite good; I've become used to the deep booms and now even my untrained ears cringe at the sound of simplistic speaker systems.
Going from a set of cheap $10 earbuds to these was definitely a shock to me. Most apparent was that I could hear subtleties in the music (even in songs I'm intimately familiar with) that had completely eluded me before. At first it was disconcerting, but now that I'm used to it I'm not sure it I can go back.
Also of note is how well they block out sound. They sport no advanced sound-cancelling technology, but they don't need it. With music going all but the loudest of outside noises are drowned out. The first time I listened to my music I didn't notice someone attempting to attract my attention until they got to within 8 feet and shouted at me.
The sound-blocking quality works in both directions, too, so at 80% volume people sitting right next to me can't hear a thing as long as you're wearing them. For an idea of what I mean, I told a friend to wear them and turned on a rock song at near full volume. He turned to me and yelled, "THIS IS AWESOME!" I replied (loudly), and he gave me a confused look, took them off, and immediately began talking at a normal volume, completely unaware that he his previous sentence could be heard halfway down the street.
From a hardware standpoint, I am extremely satisfied. So far they appear immune to standard wear and tear, surviving plane trips and typical abuse with no noticeable degradation. I'm not sure of the technical term, but the 'slinky-style' wire viewable in the picture is terrific for keeping the chord in good condition and out of my way.
Overall, these headphones pack excellent quality and durability in an affordable package. While they may not please those with more refined ears, for someone like me looking for a comfortable upgrade to better-sounding headphones, you really can't go wrong.

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Designed especially for professional monitoring and mixing, the Audio Technica ATHM50 Studio Monitor Headphones feature an efficient collapsible design for space-saving portability and storage. Circumaural ear pieces swivel 180° for easy one-ear monitoring and luxuriously padded ear cushions create an outstanding seal for maximum isolation. The adjustable headband is generously padded for ultimate comfort during long mixing sessions. A coiled cable at the left earpiece terminates to a gold-plated mini plug with included screw-on 1/4 inch adapter. Audio-Technica's sophisticated driver technology and superior components deliver exceptional power handling and very high SPL capabilities while maintaining clarity of sound throughout their extended range, with deep, accurate bass and outstanding high-frequency extension. The headphones feature propriety large-aperture drivers with neodymium magnet systems for ultra-efficient signal transfer. With the ATHM50 Headphones, Audio-Technica has achieved an exceptionally accurate response and long-wearing listening comfort. Audio Technica ATHM50 Studio Monitor Headphones Features Exceptional audio quality for professional monitoring and mixing Collapsible design ideal for easy portability and convenient storage Proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers with neodymium magnet systems Closed-back cushioned earcup design creates an outstanding seal for maximum isolation Adjustable padded headband for comfort during long mixing/recording sessions Single-sided coiled cable terminates to gold-plated mini plug with screw-on 1/4 inch adapter AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of Audio-Technica products.

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AUDIO TECHNICA ATH-ANC27 Noise-Canceling Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)Initial impressions (may add more later on) - currently my rating is ~3.5, leaning towards 3 instead of 4:
This model seems to targeting the lower-end models of other brands, Sony's and JVC's mainly. I have to admit, compared to them, it performs better. (the same can also be said for ATH-ANC1, as it is targeting the market for the highly popular Sennheiser models and in my opinion, Audio Technica did pretty well in that aspect)
Noise-canceling is there, but so is the hissing. Unlike the more expensive ATH-ANC7 model, this model introduces a fair amount of hissing. But, since the hissing stays at a constant level and does not vary in time unlike other noise-canceling headphones (like all the Able-planet models that I tried), it does not have the potential of causing headaches, so for me this is acceptable. The performance of the noise-canceling is also acceptable. I think, if you exclude the hissing, the performance is similar to the ATH-ANC7 model (cannot say it is a golden standard but pretty close).
Regarding the design, well, not unexpectedly it is also on the lower-end of the scale. I think the outer layer of the cups is designed fairly well. The problem is mostly related to the padding. Also, they kept the size of the padding section of the earcups pretty small, so unless you have small ears, you may have hard time fitting inside. Also the material used for the padding is a bit on the tougher side. It is not soft and that means longer listening periods may become quite uncomfortable. I am guessing the same material is also used for the headband, which gives an enhanced discomfort effect! (frankly, right now, it feels like a tough object sitting on top of my head, instead of making itself fit nicely to the environment)
On the good side, the construction seems to be good, so unlike the currently-expired Logitech noise canceling headphones, I don't think it is going to break any time soon. Also, for the battery placement, I am glad they followed the second generation ATH-ANC7 model, and make it easier to replace the battery.
The accessories that come with the item are the same as the other models (a hard-shell case, airplane adapter, etc.). But, since this is a given for almost all the newer models, it is not a differentiating feature anymore. The only interesting thing I noticed is that the cable has a locking feature. You can lock the cable end that is inserted into the headphone. I don't know whether this is a needed feature or not, but maybe it was for some people.
I was planning to write about the audio quality after I use it for the next few days. But, after a few hours of use, it became really tiring for my ears. It feels as if the headphone is not only canceling the lower-frequency noise outside, but the lower frequency audio on the inside too. Interestingly the audio sounds better, when the noise-canceling feature is not turned on (at least it sounds more comfortable). When the noise canceling feature is on, the high-frequency content is enhanced more than needed (possibly, a side-effect of the hissing). You can change the settings of the audio player to reduce that effect, but it would have been better if that was not needed in the first place.
At the current price range, I can say it is a fairly acceptable model. If they hadn't missed the mark regarding the comfort and the sound, I would have given this model a 4.5...
(And if I were Audio Technica, I would reduce the price of this headphone and change its title to Quiet-Discomfort...Who knows, it may actually help them sell this product...)

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AUDIO TECHNICA ATH-ANC27 Noise-Canceling Headphones

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Able Planet NC600 Clear Harmony Noise Canceling Headphones with SRS Review

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(More customer reviews)In a word Awesome. I had been searching for really good Headphones for business travel and came across these. When I took them out of the case I noticed how well built they are and not cheap. They are very comfortable to wear and lightweight. The noise cancellation is top notch (I can't hear anything outside of these headphones). Now the sound, Incredible. Once you flip that SRS switch be prepared for Audio Heaven. The Bass reproduction is amazing and the clarity is very, very nice. Definitely a 5 out of 5. I can see why they were $160 at one time. I have had BOSE Quiet Comfort and these blow those out of the water (especially for the price). If you are looking to get a Excellent pair of Noise Canceling Headphone don't hesitate to pick these up.

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Clear Harmony Around-the-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones. Clear Harmony includes patented LINX Audio Technology, state of the art active noise cancellation to reduce undesirable sounds and background noises, operates as normal headphones when ANC is turned off or if the batteries run out, lightweight adjustable headband provides superior fit, ideal for creating your own personal space filled with crisp clear sound or nothing at all, full-sized ear cups with soft cushions swivel for maximum comfort, in-line volume control enables easy adjustment to safe listening levels for hearing preservation.

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Premium Wooden Portable Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Okay let me lend my 2 cents about these cans- my main points:
1. Yes, worth the money
2. No significant downside
3. Comfortable
4. Look great
5. Sounds like 250 bucks
On my first point: Once you pull the trigger on these cans, you can be assured you haven't been suckered by inflated reviews. I've tried all its contenders and you simply must pay more to meet its match. If you have a good ear and aren't mislead by the Bose and dr. dre bass subterfuge, you will appreciate every moment these are on your head. If you're worried about sound leakage-don't be. I've had people plug these babies into their iphones at max and there is hardly a peep from them. If you want noise cancellation buy the Bose, but you'll be getting inferior sound. And let me add to that- just placing these over your ears significantly deadens the ambient noise,and with the music on- it won't matter.
Downsides? Ideally, I'd like these to fit completely over the ears, however once you've worn them for a while its not an issue. Another downside I can see is the wood housing succumbing to someone sitting on them. ( get a hard case )
Comfort: Light, and the cushions are just perfect for long durations. Careful, you might fall asleep!
Looks: Wood cans- classy. Not overly large or rediculous looking.
The sound: This is why you're buying them! When you get these delivered, make sure you have a comfortable chair and plenty of music. Let me give you a warning about break in- it sounds like geek gibberish but its not. As I've listened, I've noticed a far deeper tone develope and low frequencies resonating more pleasantly, basically the 'mud/distortion' you think you hear at first actually does disappear.
If you're spending this kind of money, you obviously have quality music to listen to. Great songs that take these around the whole range of frequencies: Beneath Alrischa (DaVinci code soundtrack) -why mention it- the song contains some frequencies so low I was feeling as well as hearing the song. Also 'mad world' donnie darko.
Another mention. Pay 20 bucks for a cheapo headphone amp, I'm using the E5 Fiio- its chinsey but puts that extra bump my iphone doesn't provide without blasting my eardrums.
Enjoy.


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Wooden housings made of African Padauk not only look great?they contribute to the superior acoustic reproduction that these beautiful headphones offer. Audio-Technica?s specially designed 42 mm neodymium drivers project powerfully. Luxurious earpads deliver long-wearing comfort. The headphones fold for compact storage. Wooden housings made of African Padauk for superior acoustic reproduction, Specially designed 42 mm drivers deliver outstanding audio, Soft earpads provide luxurious comfort, Headphones fold for compact portability.Includes protective pouch

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Audio-Technica ATH-M30 Professional Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)After purchasing an iPod mini, I thought I could use much better headphones to test the quality of the aiff files provided by iTunes. I must emphasize that I am not an expert as the other reviewers. When choosing this pair, I read reviews and looked for high quality under 50 bucks. These headphones put my big stereo speakers to shame. I can hear the background singers and instruments I haven't heard before. They sound completely awesome! (no, really, they do). There is a little bit of leak, not much. and they are extremely comfortable and lightweight on the head. I'll be testing them out extensively this weekend while traveling on airplanes. Update on airplane use: they are not noise canceling headphones, but they did block the noise of a few verbally obnoxious passengers, and while volume was cranked up, no one knew how much the tunes were cranked up. My friends that have tried them out call them *amazing*, like a symphony hall.
Around the house, they block out flushing toilets, dishwashers, and those annoying sounds from the kids' room. The cord is super long, so I can keep my iPod in it's dock on the kitchen counter and walk around and cook dinner and clean. And the connector has a strain relief so I know that the cord won't break off from running around.
I also needed headphones to go with my laptop while watching DVDs and listening to music and other computer things. Unlike my other cd headphones, these are in stereo and pick up amazing sounds. Also, they block out the computer sounds of the dvd spinning.
I suppose they weren't made for household use, but they sound so good, that they will keep me happy for a long time, baby.

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A perfect choice for project studio engineers, home recordists and recording musicians, Audio-Technica's ATH-M30 dynamic stereo headphones offer the highest level of sonic accuracy in a design engineered to provide maximum comfort for hours of listening. The headphones' low-profile, closed-back design provides exceptional clarity and superior isolation in high-volume listening situations. Features include: neodymium magnet structure; lightweight, adjustable cushioned headband; gold-plated stereo 1/8-inch (3.5 mm) connector with strain relief and screw-on 1/4-inch (6.3 mm) adapter; ultra-flexible 11-foot cable with single-side exit.

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AKG K 430 Foldable Mini Headphone - Silver Review

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(More customer reviews)At home, I use a pair for AKG K601s and Grado 325is, but needed something closed to use at the library. I've developed a discerning ear when it comes to headphones so I considered the less expensive Koss Porta Pros which have quite a following and these since I'm a big fan of my K601s. I've only listened to the Porta Pros briefly, but I can already say in the short amount of time that I've had these that they blow those out of the water in terms of clarity and crispness. I'm not a huge bass guy and my music isn't very bass-heavy, but these have just the right amount--i.e., they don't exaggerate the sound that's in the original recording. They're also a lot more comfortable and offer great sound isolation compared to other headphones which just sit on your ears.
So, 5 stars for portability, looks, sound quality, comfort. 3 Stars for value. But, if you're willing to pay the premium, it's well worth it.

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When you want a high performance upgrade to typical on-ear headphones, look no further than the AKG K 430 mini, on-ear headphones. Deisgned to deliver true AKG performance - high-output sound and excellent frequency response - from virtually any portable device, including iPhone, they are the high-performance upgrade for an improved personal listening experience. By using a closed-back deisgn that fits comfortably on the ear with soft ear pads, theK 430s deliver exceptional dynamic range and detailed sound that is free of distortion, even at high listening levels. AKG has even made tucking these headphones away very easy as the patented 3D-Axis folding mechanism allows you to fold these headphones into very easy size to carry. Include an integrated volume control and a single sided cable and these headphones are the perfect companion for everyday use. A protective carrying case is even included to keep your headphones safe and secure when not in use.

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Sony MDR-F1 Full-Open-Air Headphones with Impedance Compensator Review

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(More customer reviews)The Sony MDR-F1 Headphones are a respected headphone in the industry, and for a good many number of reasons. You don't know what 'music to my ears' really means until you hear these. In this review, I compare them to many of my large collection of headphones, which I reference in the review, and major differences are included. I rated the sound of the MDR's without an amp on a 1-10 scale, with 1 at disgusting and 10 for unbelievable.
For lower frequencies like a bass guitar or the main beat of an R&B song, they get the job done, but not perfectly. In their description from Sony, it is pointed out that they have a special driver on the speaker that aids in clarity and pronouncement of the bass. They work wonderfully, and make those Bose cans sound like garbage. If you are a person who demands bass, go Sennheiser HD 595 for can style or Ultimate Ear triple-fi's for in-ear design, but these still work great. 8/10 for bass.
For mid-tones Sony did what they do normally, giving it the standard design aimed for those mid frequencies that include slightly lower voices and classical music. But don't underestimate the beauty of Sony and mid's. If your music is more male singing and has guitar, look no further than here. Beyerdynamic beat these out due to how they can make any voice sound like it's in the room with you, so those are a great option for spoken vocal and indie music. For the MDR's, I give it 9/10 for mids.
The High Notes; To me this is the most important, and can make or break a listening experience. However even on the highest pitches, there was no hiss or the very common rattle most headphones make. Absolutely perfect. Cymbal crashes and clapping sound so real they can send shivers down your spine when you realize it isn't live music. The other headphones didn't come close to the MDR-F1 for any frequencies at and above 8000 kHz, where most make it sound like high pitches are an afterthought, coming out unpronounced and lifeless. I have yet to hear any better sound from a headphone in this range, and that's coming against Grado GS1000's and AKG 7000 cans. 10/10.
Now a word on the open-air design of the MDR-F1's: due to the round rings by the speakers, there is no place where they even graze your ear, even with a large ear like me. And since you have nothing else there, any other environment sound comes in. So depending on where you will use the headphones means a great deal. These won't do if you live on airplanes, as you will hear the hum constantly due to their open style. If you plan on using these at home, walking on campus to class, or in the office, these are a very viable option, as these environments are less noisy. They won't block out the environment at all; rather, they make you feel like you're at the concert or studio. And when someone needs to talk to you, they don't have to yell and punch your arm to get your attention, which is good for everyone. 8/10 for design, but is highly subjective to the user.
When you wear them, you may forget after a while; They weigh practically nothing on your head because of the band that lifts them from your head. They float on your head like they are on shocks, and keep evenly balanced at all times. They look a little weird with the two wires sticking up, especially if you have a flat head. But unlike any other headphone I've ever owned, you can wear these for hours both safely and comfortably. 8.5/10 for style.
However what happens when all of this comes together is the sweet spot for music. A full song will meld in perfectly, where nothing overpowers anything else and a wonderful soundstage is created. This is why I give full props to these headphones. If you get a bass-centered headphone, the rest of the music can be lost in the background; for most listeners you want the full song, not just part of it. These give it to you in a shiny, gracefully made bow. Since my music tastes are so broad, I wanted a headphone that could play it all, making the MDR-F1's a blessing from God.
EDIT 6/9/2010: I've had these headphones for what I think will be 8 years now, and the sound has molded into something so wonderful I can't really describe. I have never had such a good break-in on any of my headphones before. The padding on the ears has completely worn off, and one of the hinges broke, but they still work perfectly when I'm listening at the computer or somewhere stationary. If you can get these headphones and take care of them over time, you will have made one of the best investments in music.

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Sony MDR-F1 Your personal audio experience begins with Sony's MDR-F1 Full-Open-Air Stereo Headphones. Featuring a New Full-Open-Air System for a wider stereo soundstage, a Newly Developed Extra-Large Driver Unit with an Acoustic Bass Lens, and New Ecsaine Head and Ear Pad Material, these headphones bring you exploding sound and comfort as you listen. Its Magnesium Alloy Frame and Super Duralumin Headband add to its creative design.

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Sony MDRNC7/WHI Noise Canceling on-ear headphones (White) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Uncomfortable = ridge at the top of headphones (where it bends) becomes distracting and painful after short period of time.
Headphones doesn't cover entire ear, somewhat "housing" ears; it lays on top of your ears, causing them to hurt after long usage.
Sound quality = great.


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Noise Canceling Headphones --- Reduces unwanted ambient noise by 87.4%, providing a quieter environment to enhance your listening experience. Foldable and swivel design --- Allows the headphones to fold up to a small and compact size. Dual use capability --- Allows for the option to listen to music with or without noise cancellation. This allows you to still beable to use the headphones as headphones when the battery runs dry. Plug Adaptor --- is supplied to connect directly to stereo or dual jack of in-flight music services.

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AKG K 172 HD High-Definition Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)These have excellent sound quality just the way AKG is known for.
High treble and thumping bass. Personally I think this particular set of headphones have better sound quality than the Bose headphones, which I have used before.
It doesn't use noise-cancelling technology but cuts out most of ambient noise so it should work very well in noisy environments as well.


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The AKG K 172 HD high performance headphone is a must have when you desire a high-end personal listening experience from nearly any audio device.Deisgned to deliver the ultimate in AKG performance - high-output sound and the widest, distortion free frequency response -they are the designed for the highest, distortion free output possible, making them a perfect companion for a professional DJ. With an on-ear, closed back design that sits comfortably on the ear with ultrasoft velvet ear pads, the K 172 HD headphones deliver sparkling high frequencies, rich mid-range and tight deep bass. Their ultra-efficient design and 99.9% oxygen-free, single-sided, detachable cable means you have the purest sound transmission possible. Add gold plated contacts and plugs for the best connection and you have a truely amazing listening experience.

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Audio-Technica ATH-M50S Studio Monitor Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I'll say this first off: I don't record, DJ, or do any mixes with this headphone (no prosumer work). These Audio Technica M50's (straight cable) are used purely for listening to my music. One phrase comes to mind about these cans: O MiE GaWd!
I currently own these and the Beyerdynamic DT-770 pro (80 ohm), and have owned everything under the sun from Bose's headphone offerings; except their noise-canceling variants, although I've heard those as well. The M50's overall are the best sounding period that I've heard yet. They sound so ridiculously good that I can't even imagine if I need, let alone want to hear more expensive offerings.
Highs 5/5 - Imagine a dedicated tweeter per cup. The highs are PERFECT. Sirens, cymbals, piano notes, you name it comes in crystal clear with a pristine pitch. No harshness or fatigue comes with it. No roll-off or sibilance either, even if you crank it up to stratospheric levels.
Mids 5/5 - Like 2 miniaturized, mid-range drivers for your dome piece. When I heard Bose, I thought I HEARD everything, which was very nice. With the M50's, YOU WILL HEAR EVERYTHING. There were hidden voices and notes that even the Bose's missed in songs that I knew by heart. Voices came out clear and articulate. No recessed mid-range here. It's all up in your grill with pleasing authority and with the natural fullness that is to be expected with your tunes.
Lows 5/5 - I wish I could rate this higher. No other headphone (that I've heard) can touch this. Take two, high quality, sealed sub woofers. Shrink them, and somehow stuff them into the M50's. Then listen. Your brain will become grits. Your eyeballs will shake furiously. Your jawbone will uncontrollably vibrate. The bass in this headphone can resurrect the dead (and then some). The bass notes come in with such passion, that you instantly fall in love. It is highly textured, laser-accurate, and tightly controlled with ZERO distortion. There is no need to crank up the EQ on this. You can, but you've been warned. The bass is the best part about the M50. It is FLAWLESS.
Soundstage 4/5 - For a studio monitor, the soundstage is very good. There is a wide sense of space and depth to the sound. Nevertheless, they aren't as open-sounding as others such as the DT-770 pros, which have a closed design as well. This can sometimes take you out of the "scenario" when watching movies or playing games, which is why I use these primarily for music. I use the DT-770 pro's for movies and games, which those excel in this area.
Detail Retrieval 5/5 - Plain and simple, if it's in the audio track, you will hear it with no problem at all. Every nuance, sound, intricate detail, and mouse-fart will have a direct line to your eardrum for your listening pleasure. No complaints.
Value 5/5 - You need a pair (no, not those) of Audio Technica M50's. These are more than worthy to add to your headphone stable. Comfort is also quite excellent. Other studio monitor headphones pinch too tight for me (I also wear glasses), these are just right. Not too loose or constricted. The Beyers beat these in this area though (those are like Serta pillows :).
The cord is terminated into a slick-looking, metal housing, with a flexible end connected to a 1/8" plug, that also can be mated to a screw on 1/4" adapter. In other words, you can plug the M50's into whatever device you want; Ipod, home receiver, amp, etc., right out of the box. Durability is also the best I've seen yet. Can't see these breaking in any way, even if it's in the hands of a toddler.
Audio Technica M50's = A slice of musical heaven with whipped cream.
UPDATE: 4/8/09 - Burn in definitely changes the sound. Other owners have suggested 40 hours of cooking. The headphones sound more distinct, clear, and the instruments have better separation. Even the bass is more lively and the soundstage is more expanded. All said, don't judge yet until you've pumped tunes through them for many hours. Which then, the end result will surely be a smile on your face.

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With the ATH-M50S professional studio monitor headphones, Audio-Technica has achieved an exceptionally accurate response and long-wearing listening comfort. Designed especially for professional monitoring and mixing, these studiophones feature an efficient collapsible design for space-saving portability and storage. Circumaural ear pieces swivel 180 for easy one-ear monitoring and luxuriously padded ear cushions create an outstanding seal for maximum isolation. The adjustable headband is generously padded for ultimate comfort during long mixing sessions. Audio-Technicas sophisticated driver technology and superior components deliver exceptional power handling and very high SPL capabilities while maintaining clarity of sound throughout their extended range, with deep, accurate bass and outstanding high-frequency extension. The headphones feature proprietary large-aperture drivers with neodymium magnet systems for ultra-efficient signal transfer.

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