Ask HN: Non-audiophile looking for first quality headphones

[caseyw]

In a recent HN post I saw people mention Bose as a less desirable brand for headphones. I’ve always thought it was the better brand likely due to marketing.

I’m not looking for any brand bashing, but more of what I should look for that will help make an educated decision when purchasing a nice set of cans.

Thanks HN!

[dfraser992]

If you are concerned about technical details, try [1]. I spent hours on this site when looking for a pair of wireless headphones - I got tired of dealing with the myriad of other (pseudo)review sites plugging specific brands that were more just marketing copy and so obviously untrustworthy. In the process, I learned about features I had no idea existed and ended up buying something slightly more expensive than I normally would buy, but it will cover all my possible needs.

[1] https://www.rtings.com/

[caseyw]

What did you end up going with?

[dfraser992]

I got the HD 4.40 BT from Sennheiser. I thought I'd buy something cheap (under $40) but ended up wanting NFC connectivity, cable connectivity, low enough latency to watch videos (did not realize that was a big issue)...

[karmakaze]

I concur that Bose isn't great for sound quality. Their noise-cancellation is quite good although others have caught up/surpassed them.

I'm a bit of an audio snob so don't do wireless. The Sony MDR-7506 is my default go-to. It's light and has the best midrange/mid-high detail and tone.

I do keep a pair of Bose QuietComfort for plane trips and office privacy (wearing better quality earbuds underneath).

I can't deny the convenience of wireless and will likely get the Sony which offers a wireless/wired combo in the same model.

[ansgri]

Go read guides at head-fi.org, there are multiple budget-conscious (as well as very hi-end) discussions for all kinds of applications. Very good forum.

Start here: https://www.head-fi.org/articles/headphone-buying-guide.1416...

My personal favorite for price/convenience/sound currently is Fiio F9 Pro.

[Finnucane]

Do you have a budget? I got pair of Audio-Technica headphones that weren’t very expensive and suit me pretty well. Do you care about noise-cancelling or other fancy features?

[caseyw]

I'd like to spend under 300, and noise cancelling would be nice.

[eightothree]

I like Panasonic ErgoFit RP-HJE120 Earbud Headphones. It's super cheap, sounds incredible and nearly indestructible. Great for gym or any outdoors work.

[pettycashstash2]

For Bluetooth I’ve enjoyed Sony Mx wireless version. Has Boise cancelling and quite good from a sound perspective