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Looking for closed back headphone advice

So I haven't purchased headphones in many years. I just recently updated my home stereo and am very happy with what I have. However, I'd like to relax with some headphones and I'd like to ask about some good, quality closed back headphones. My budget is around $700. There's only one audio store in town and they don't carry very much and they tend to have poor customer service. I'd like to purchase from a dealer who has a 30-60 return policy in case I don't like them and need an exchange. Any suggestions would greatly be appreciated. Thanks!
bluorion
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,308 posts
 
I have been looking for a new pair of closed back phones.

Stopped by a dealer today and ended up with a pair of Sony mdr 1am2.

Was looking for something closed back not too far off from Open back Grados.
These really hit the mark.


Clean but not as lively through the midrange as Grado but a wonderful balanced delivery with lots of detail top to bottom and with nice wide soundstage for closed phones.

Also very lightweight and comfortable.

You hear everything and everything sounds good.

Also only 16 ohm: easy to drive.

A winner at $299.
bluorion OP
477 posts
 
As for my amp, I have a Luxman 505uxii integrated amp. I saw the Sony headphones mentioned below and they look interesting as well as the Beyerdynamic. I'm not very well versed on headphone specs and amps so I appreciate the input. Would the Sony 1am2 or the Beyerdynamic work well with my Luxman?
freediver
1,216 posts
 
I dug around & find absolutely NO mention of headphone specs on your amp.I suggest before you spend $ you find out exactly what the Output Impedance of the headphone circuit is..Without that information ANY suggestions on what will sound good are purely SPECulation!
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,308 posts
 
The Sony’s are low 16ohm impedance and most any device can drive them including mere cell phone.

I recall certain Beyerdynamic models Come with different impedance options. 

In general higher impedance phones will require beefier amps to drive properly while low impedance models less so. 

Always check that and decide how you will use the phones and with what devices driving them for best results.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,471 posts
 
Earphones are best run from a dedicated headphone amp.....the connection to receivers et al is very usually inferior.
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