[mattcrest]

I went through a search for quality headphones that can also work for Skype calls a while back. I ended up going with what is marketed as a gaming headset. While I'm not a gamer, I've found the SteelSeries Siberia V2 to be pretty great.

The pull-out mic is by far my favorite feature.

http://steelseries.com/products/audio/steelseries-siberia-v2

[wanderr]

Happy to see someone else mention steelseries. The headphones I love are the 5H V2 though. They sound great to me, but more important for long sessions is that they are fantastically comfortable. Not only do they fit completely over my ears but the foam is marvelously soft and supple, unlike anything I've seen on other headphones.

[gkop]

Agree on the need for the mic (isn't that a big draw of iPhone buds?), but those are so bulky!

I need something pocket-sized for hacking on the go.

Any suggestions for high-end buds with an in-cord mic a la iPhone buds?

[fourk]

Personally I use a pair of Shure SE-215-K in-ear monitors with the "Shure CBL-M+-K" cable that includes in-cord mic and volume adjustment. That cord will work with any in-ear monitor in the Shure SE line. I highly recommend this route if you're looking to spend within in the $150 to $500 range.

[mattcrest]

They are bulky for traveling. I use these at my office, and just use iPhone earbuds for when I'm on the go.

[noisebleed]

Check out Etymotics.. they have a few. I really like my HF3s.