Physically Comfortable Headphones


I anticipate that in the near future, I will have a greater dependance on headphone listening. I have a separate listening room at this time, and do not have to worry about affecting others as I listen, even into the night. But if/when we downsize, I am almost certain to not have this luxury again. 

I like headphones. But they never seem to like me. I can't find one that I don't want to rip off my head within a half-hour. My head is probably a bit bigger sized than average, but not outrageous. My temples, the source (or at least, location) for my frequent headaches, are sensitive to pressure. My ears get really hot really quickly.

I have owned Grado G1000's, Audeze LCD-2's, Meze 99's, Sennheiser 650's, Stax SR 80's, and the most comfortable of them all, the Audio Technica Air ATH AD700's. And while the AT 700's are the most physically comfortable, the sound is too thin, and not good enough for front line music listening. 

Does anyone know of headphones that fit slightly larger headed people? That have a lower "clamp-force" around the temples? I favor a fuller sound, with good bass, like my Audeze LCD-2's (pre-fazor). My budget is probably around $1500 or less.

Thanks for any suggestions...

David 

dtorc

I also find it difficult to get headphones to fit me. Two that I've found to be comfortable are

Sennheiser HD800 - much more comfortable than the 650s and extremely light.

Audeze LCD-XC - I need closed back phones for recording and while the XCs are heavy, they are incredibly comfortable.

I have not compared dozens of models, so my sample size is not large, but the Focal Elex headphones (open back) I ended up with I find I can wear for long stretches with no issue.  I often will have them on much of the day if listening while working, and do find them non-obtrusive and comfortable. 

Sennheiser HD800 for maximum comfort with clarity and ok bass.

 

Meze Empyrean for maximum comfort, bass, less clarity

 

I am very happy with my new Dan Clark Audio E3’s. They have a full sound with plenty of bass, detail without being too bright. I can listen for hours with no issues at all. They are very comfortable, even with my 7-7/8 dome. They aren’t all that expensive either. Highly recommend.

Echoing the comments regarding comfort of Hifiman headphones. I have the HE1000 V2 and they are very comfortable. Had the Arya v2 before that, and they are the same.