How to choose the best headphones for myself

B1gbeard · 30 Jan 2017 at 09:56

Hi folks,

I've had a pair of AKG 702's for some time now but because of the headband, which I've found uncomfortable and causes headaches, I've stopped using them. I wasn't bowled over by the sound either although I'm not sure if my Asus Essence STX II is driving them adequately.

So I'm moving on and looking at other options.

I've tried something similar to the Sennheiser design and find these more comfortable.

So I'm wondering how you guys go about choosing headphones that are right for you? Is it a case of ordering and returning until you get it right (If you are unable to visit somewhere for a demo)? Should I get something to drive them first if my soundcard is inadequate and then try the headphones?

I'd want to spend about £400 on a setup that would be good for music but primarily for immersive gaming. Current options I've looked at would be some HD600/650's and something to drive them or the GSX1000 + HD599 which looked a good allrounder combo (although I have my heart set on trying some 650's for some reason).

Please help!

B1gbeard · 30 Jan 2017 at 12:04

Thanks for the detailed response.

I have the flat band on the K702's. To be honest the issue is more health related. The band just causes me problems.

I don't like the idea of buying stuff to test it but I think I've narrowed it down enough maybe.

The surround option on the GSX1000 sounds really appealing. Maybe seeing as my card can drive the 650's I might give them a go first. Just to get it out of my system.

B1gbeard · 30 Jan 2017 at 14:23

Might look at the X2's as well. They have that lower separate headband but it seems more padded.

B1gbeard · 3 Feb 2017 at 08:11

A pair of HD650's turned up yesterday and so will be getting some testing over the weekend. Do you guys use anything especially for testing or is just a selection of CD's the best way to go?

B1gbeard · 9 Feb 2017 at 11:45

I've been using the 650's now for a week and they are glorious for music. I'm not up on all the terms but each instrument just stands out on its own, is more noticeable and enjoyable. Vocals sound stunning.

For gaming I've swapped between the 650's and my K702's playing Resident Evil 7 and tbh I'm not sure that one is better than the other. The 702's sound more open, a bit more expansive whereas the 650's sound a bit like your hearing is more limited, but not by much. The quality of the sounds are better on the 650's. A trade off I guess.