Headphone upgrade

[milhouse74]

OK, so the first thing I did when I got my iPod was research some headphones. I decided that for the money and size, the Sennheiser PX100's were the best bet. I went with a headphone as opposed to an earphone because I wanted comfort and sound. I think they sound better, but I want something a little better than those. So my question is, is there a set of headphones that would sound a little bit better w/o breaking the bank($100 range)? Also, if I went with earphones(say the shure e2c's) are those going to sound atleast better than my PX100's? I'm a bit torn. I'm assuming that with earphones I won't get the sound or comfort I'm looking at. Oh, and as far as headphones, I was looking at the Sennheiser HD 485's. Anyone have any experience with those? THanks.

[Jackonicko]

You'll have to spend more on in-ear earbuds to get the same level of pure sound quality than you'll get from an over-the-ear headphone, though you will immediately get more isolation, and perhaps more 'Wow factor', just as you get better portability.

Some in-ear phones are EXTREMELY comfortable - generally those fitted with 'soft sleeves' like the Sony EX71 (that's not a recommendation for the Sony, whose sound quality is appalling, though manay here will recommend it as though it were the holy grail of ear-wear) and some people find those with foam tips comfortable.

I would caution you on the Shure E2 - it's extremely uncomfortable, with nasty hard tips and with wires (which have to run behind the ear) that are too thick and too stiff for comfort. And while the sound is good, it ain't that good. The Etymotic ER6i is another iPod favourite, but again the sound is less impressive than many might suggest (horribly flat). Both of these will probably just break your $100 barrier anyway. Among cheap earphones (below $100) the best I've found so far are Panasonic's HJE70s, which combine great design and 'funkyness' with well defined but powerful bass. You might find Sennheiser's CX300s better, but I've yet to sample these.

[milhouse74]

Any other opinions on some headphones?

[Jackonicko]

Sorry, I use Sennheiser PX200s, Sony G73s and an ancient set of Sennys whose designation I've forgotten, if I ever knew it. I tend to use over the ear phones very little, and these three suit my needs. Wish I could be more help.

[shixun]

I haven't heard the Sennheiser HD 485, but I like the smooth highs, forward presentation, and strong bass impact of the Alessandro Music Series One.

[jerome g]

If you like rock music, Grado SR60 is nice at $70