Closed back headphone recommendations

dannywaugh1

dannywaugh1

dannywaugh1

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Newcastle upon tyne
Hi all,

Currently using Audio Technica M30x headphones, had then for 4-5 years now and starting to crackle. I think now is the time for something new / better.

I mainly use them for gaming, music, watching videos I dont have a DAC (is one needed?).

I have looked at the M50x but I dont really know much about headphones.

Thanks!
 
dannywaugh1 said:
They will be plugging into my computer 3.5mm jack.

Motherboard is a Z97x sli (https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/GA-Z97X-SLI-rev-10#ov)

But will be going into a x870x asrock nova wifi soon.
Click to expand...

I can't see anything about the Nova having a built in amp.

I'm assuming that your budget is around £100-150 given you're looking at the M50X, you might prefer them over the Beyerdynamics, many do, but I'm not personally a fan. The DT770 80ohms would be my preference, but I'd pick up a DAC/AMP even if it's something cheap like a SYBA Sonic USB SD-DAC63057 for £25-30.
 
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You can always start off cheap with like the basic Apple dongle dac amp or a JCally £5 one. JCally also make one for about £18 that has more power.


They will work just fine.
 
Leaning towards the Fiio FT1's with a K11 DAC, been looking at some reviews and all are good. Compared to my current Audio Technica M30x headphones I will hopefully notice a difference.
 
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dannywaugh1 said:
They will be plugging into my computer 3.5mm jack.

Motherboard is a Z97x sli (https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/GA-Z97X-SLI-rev-10#ov)

But will be going into a x870x asrock nova wifi soon.
Click to expand...


Just use a dac or amp if high ohm headset. Avoiding the motherboard jacks to avoid any risk of interference or line noise. I'm not an audiophile but even I can hear a tiny bit of noise if I plug headphones into a motherboard/case 3.5mm jack, where as if I plug into even just a $5 dac, the noise is instantly gone and the sound is cleaner

I find even wireless headphones sound clearer than plugging directly into a PCs 3.5mm jack
 
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Not really about ohms, sensitivity matters too. Probably best to try it out first.

Steer clear of the DT770, totally wonky midrange. Build quality is definitely top notch but I can't stand the sound.

I've owned the DT770, K361, K371, Rode NTH-100, and Focal Azurys, and those are just the closed backs - and I'm probably forgetting a few.

Most of them are great. The K361/71 are pretty special. The NTH-100 comfort and fit feels amazing but the headband can snap a little easier than the others. The Focal Azurys are expensive and don't offer a whole lot more. Just steer clear of the DT770.

I second the suggestion about getting a cheap dongle, but do try it with your onboard audio first. K11 is probably overkill for the price but nice if you want a volume knob on your desk and a fancy device to plug stuff into and look pretty.

The FT1 you're leaning towards seem cool, I've not tried them yet though. Have fun!
 
I'm not having that! I have 3 pairs of DT770s. However, the two originals are modded with mass load and damping kits. Then I have the anniversary edition that uses a newer driver that I do not feel needs changing at all - the best closed headphones I've ever owned.

Also a shout out for the ATH MX50s too, I just find the fit uncomfortable for longer periods.
 
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