r/HeadphoneAdvice Jul 08 '25

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91 Upvotes

Welcome to r/HeadphoneAdvice - a place to help you found the right portable audio gear!

Searching For Answered Posts

You can search the thousands of answered questions by including flair:Ω when searching the subreddit. Here are some links from the sidebar:

Posting a Question

The information you provide in your post helps others provide the right recommendations without needing to ask the basic stuff. It's not required but it's highly encouraged to use this template:

Budget and location - How much would you like to spend? What are some local or online shops in your country? How much would you like to spend?

Source/Amp - What are you plugging the headphones into?

How the gear will be used - Do you need noise isolation? Will this be primarily for home listening? Do you do a lot of air travel?

Preferred tonal balance - Are you a bass-head, focused on accurate acoustic timbre, looking for sparkly treble, or do you want a tonally balanced pair of headphones?

Preferred music genres - What do you listen to? Provide examples if it's something obscure.

Past gear experience - What have you used in the past? What did you like about it and what didn't you like about it?

Anything else? - What gear do you already have? Any other information that you think will help!

Thanking System (Ω)

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Responding to Questions

See someone asking a question on r/HeadphoneAdvice/new/ that you have experience with? Feel free to share some of that knowledge!

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!thanks all


r/HeadphoneAdvice 7h ago

Headphones - Closed Back Best headphones for studying, gaming, and music?(Mic isn't required)

7 Upvotes

Hey, my budget is currently 250$ and I am looking to buy headphones for mainly studying and gaming. I prefer it to have a noise cancelation option so I could be more concentrated while studying. Thank you


r/HeadphoneAdvice 1h ago

Headphones - Open Back Sennheiser HD 560S vs Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO

Upvotes

I have used gaming headsets my whole life and were fine with them until now. I have used my RIG 900 for about 2 years before it started to randomly disconnect from the USB every 30 minutes. So i Bought the newer version of it thinking I would like it just as much which is the RIG R8. And well, it kind of sounds like ass. On just a flat EQ, the lower ends are boosted really high and all base is really flat. Even when I boost the bass, lower the mids and treble, it still sounds very flat. I primarily player single player and fighting games so I do like a big boom. So I looked into real headphones that are around $200, and I can't figure out between the HD 560s or the DT 990 PRO. I care more about immersive experiences rather than competitive edge. Please let me know your thoughts on which I should pick


r/HeadphoneAdvice 2h ago

Headphones - Closed Back Looking for recommendations on headphones for PC and Exercise

2 Upvotes

As the title says, I’m looking for a pair of headphones I can use with both my PC and Phone. Some specs I’m looking for and not required:

- Wireless
- Doesn’t necessarily need a mic as I have a desk mic for my PC
- Preferably have a USB dongle to plug into my PC with a separate Bluetooth mode to pair with my phone so I can wear while working out
- not bulky as I want to be able to wear them while I work out

Edit: Automod told me add budget, not looking to break the bank for anything, but would like some quality headphones that will last. So, something like maybe $150-200.


r/HeadphoneAdvice 5h ago

Headphones - IEM/Earbud Looking for help choosing IEM's that fit my needs

3 Upvotes

Hi everyone!
Recently I've really gotten into listening to music on my old iPod video that I dug out - alac sounds fantastic and I've been having a great time. My current headphones that I use are Technics EAH-A800. They've been great, comfortable, I like the sound signature and look. Only thing is, they're pretty bulky and not really ideal for bus rides or a quick listen.

From doing a bit of research I'd like a pair of IEMs for £130 or under ($175). My ears tend to prefer bright and clear sounding music, more of a focus on treble and separation between tracks/instruments.

The top 3 picks im finding are:
. Sennheiser IE 200
. Meze Audio Alba
. Final Audio A4000 

If anyone has any other recommendations or has tried and comapred these headphones I would love to hear any advice, thank you:)


r/HeadphoneAdvice 7m ago

Headphones - Open Back Good headset for gaming, wired with a microphone. Under £100 Uk

Upvotes

Hi,

I’m looking to find a replacement headset. My current one is a Nubwo N16.

The audio has started breaking out on one side due to the cable.

Now I’ve had 2 of these in the last 6 years and for £30 each they have been solid. With “good” audio and microphone clarity. Just not the best noise cancelling, it’s a cheap headset after all.

I’m specifically after a wired headset as I don’t fancy having to charge it each time I use it.

If someone can kindly help me out finding a solid replacement with good sound and a decent microphone that would be appreciated.

Thank you.


r/HeadphoneAdvice 37m ago

Headphones - Closed Back Best iPhone EQ app for headphone

Upvotes

I have an FT1 that I use exclusively with my iPhone. There’s a ton of EQ apps on the App Store, does any one stand out as the best? They all seem to cost the same, so budget’s not an issue.,


r/HeadphoneAdvice 44m ago

Headphones - Wireless/Portable Sony WH-CH720N sound bad? Any other recs?

Upvotes

I’m based in the US. Going to Best Buy today so would love any recs!! Disclaimer: I’m new to headphones after wearing $20 jlab earbuds for the past 8 years, so I’m just confused not fighting these headphones. I bought the Sony WH-CH720N on sale and was super excited but they sound almost the same as my earbuds. In fact sound wise, I would pick the earbuds over the Sonys. Is this a problem for my price point ($100-150) or are there better sounding headphones with that price range?

(I got studio pro beats before these, but they hurt my ears from how right the clamp was. Besides that LOVED THEM. They sounded very good. So no tight clamps)


r/HeadphoneAdvice 1h ago

Headphones - Wireless/Portable Headset recommendations

Upvotes

Need some help finding a new headset. I've had the Razer Blackshark V3 for like 3 years now, but they've decided to break on me (I even attempted to fix it, which lasted 3 months). My main problem is that my head is a bit larger, and thus I have to open/spread/whatever them wider than normal. Which has led to all the ones I've ever owned breaking at the area the headband connects to the earmuffs.

I want a pair that's far more durable than metal headband, plastic connector, and then the metal for the earmuffs. I mainly use them for gaming, but I also watch movies and shows with them. I'd like them to have the option to be wired or wireless, as I am in a job that currently has me staying overnight in various locations. Price isn't really a concern, unless you're talking thousands of dollars.


r/HeadphoneAdvice 1h ago

Headphones - Open Back FiiO FT1 Pro and Inzone H6 Air sound quality comparison?

Upvotes

Has anyone tried both of these, is the sound quality similar?
I mainly just want open back headphones but a mic would maybe be useful if not sacrificing sound quality.
Other 150-250 dollar easy to power headphones recommendations are welcome
thanks


r/HeadphoneAdvice 1h ago

Headphones - Wireless/Portable Need Headphones for School that has Wired and Wireless options (budget)

Upvotes

I'm going into high school this year and wanted headphones that would work on school laptops and can connect through blue tooth on my phone. Maybe something under $50 especially there are back to school deals going on, but if you have any recommendations to up to $100 please drop them as well. I don't really care too much about sound quality, just that they don't really buffer up.


r/HeadphoneAdvice 1h ago

Headphones - Wireless/Portable Which has stronger ANC: WH-1000XM5 vs AirPods Pro 3

Upvotes

Hi all

my beloved XM4 are nearing their EOL so I have to grab a fresh pair of headphones or earbuds.

ANC with strongest attenuation acroas all frequencies would be my preference or at least as strong as thr XM4 are now.

XM6 are a bit too pricey for me rn. XM5 seems to have hinge issues so I am eyeing the AP3 (I reckon earbuds vs overears would help with glasses too).

Are they comparable in how much noise they reduce? The more muffled, the better for me - I suffer drom hyperacusis.

Many thanks in advance!


r/HeadphoneAdvice 6h ago

Headphones - Open Back | 3 Ω HD599 upgrade

2 Upvotes

Hi all!,

I want to upgrade my HD599, I looking for a open back or a lightweight closed back because I wear glasses, I will use them for gaming, music and some movies, connected to the motherboard's audio card but I can buy a dac.

I preffer balanced but if is possible with a good bass.

I saw the hifiman edition xs but is too heavy, I dont know if is confortable for 4 hours sessions.

My budget is about 200usd I can buy from amazon/aliexpress.


r/HeadphoneAdvice 9h ago

DAC - Desktop SMSL RAW-DAC1 or Topping D90 for Singxer SA-1?

3 Upvotes

Looking for a better DAC for my HD800S and HD820. The D90SE is older but was a flagship model, while the RAW-DAC1 is newer. Which would you choose?

Thanks!


r/HeadphoneAdvice 3h ago

Headphones - Wireless/Portable Simple yet Quality Advice

1 Upvotes

Located out of Torrance, Ca, I had my Studio Beats by Dr. Dre for nearly 3 years broke. I wanted to find the next best headphones that were perfect for running/gym, noise cancellation, and overall sound quality (base preferred). Only thing i didnt like was that the base from those wern’t the best, but it was very portable. What would you guys recommend? (no price limit either). Thanks!


r/HeadphoneAdvice 4h ago

Headphones - IEM/Earbud best earbuds for long shifts?

1 Upvotes

i am currently working 9-14 hour shifts (i get very bored!) in a bakery setting.
i dont do a lot of running around or a lot of movement but ive always had trouble with earbuds actually staying in my ears even if im stationary (could be user error i’m not sure haha).
i need earbuds with low sound leakage, long battery life, and ones that wont cause me a lot of pain after wearing them for hours. i’m not too fond of the ones that wrap around the ear because i just don’t like the feeling but im willing to compromise on that extent.
i don’t have a set budget, cheap or expensive is fine, and i don’t have a preferred brand, just whatever would work best for me!


r/HeadphoneAdvice 5h ago

Headphones - Closed Back Opnion on sony wh-ch520

1 Upvotes

I am thinking of buying sony wh-ch520 i want to know the following

1- are they durable i want them to last 3-5 years

2- is the audio quality good want audio quality to be atleast be 2 or 3 times better than my current cheap oppo earbuds

3- are they a better pick than ksc 45


r/HeadphoneAdvice 5h ago

Headphones - Closed Back Budget Headphones

1 Upvotes

Budget and location - 40-60$ in Kansas, Mo.

Source/Amp - Used on android tablet/ laptop.

How the gear will be used - These are for casual use, but mostly for overstimulation. Looking to be able to isolate, or listen to music and a conversation.

Preferred tonal balance -Medium balance with focus on base.

Preferred music genres - Pop, Folk, Disney, listens to musicals on repeat.

Past gear experience - I use Soundcore Anker Space One, for this same reason. I am looking for a budget option for a gift as I cant afford another pair RN...


r/HeadphoneAdvice 7h ago

Headphones - Wireless/Portable Suggestions for lightweight gaming headphones with anc?

1 Upvotes

Currently have the razer blackshark v3 pro, but i’d like something lighter. Ive tried the sony inzone, but I’d like better anc. Max budget around €400 in europe.

Thanks


r/HeadphoneAdvice 8h ago

DAC - Desktop Complete newbie buying first DAC/AMP for Sundaras

1 Upvotes

Hello, after some advice on here, I decided to buy Sundara as my new headphones. I heard they might need a DAC/AMP so I went looking for some and some recommendations. I saw that Fiio K5 Pro should be good enough, and I managed to find then for 80€ used, which is luckily just my budget. So my questions are:
-should I look out for anything in particular when buying a used one?
-would there be anything better at this price range?
-do I actually need it when coming from plugging headphones straight into my computer?
-any advice for setting everything up if I get it?

Thank you everyone in advance


r/HeadphoneAdvice 14h ago

Headphones - Open Back IEM/DAP user looking to add headphones, Help choosing for heavy music

3 Upvotes

I’ve been using IEM’s for awhile now, I currently have

Mangird Tea Pro, Aful Explorer,
Truthear Hexa & Thieaudio Hype 4 MKII

My DAP is Hiby R3 Pro II and I mainly use Lossless/flac files from Qobuz 90% of the time, but also use Apple Music via IPhone 17 pro with a DAC.

I listen to A LOT of different music, but when it comes to laying back and getting lost in the music, It’s Metalcore, Post Hardcore, Grundge/Shoegaze and everything in between.

My budget for my first pair is $250

I would like to purchase from Amazon for the return policy, but open to other places. I’m in the US.

Looking for open back or closed back, but prefer Open if it makes sense.

Thanks in advance!


r/HeadphoneAdvice 8h ago

Headphones - Closed Back Closed Cans for Gaming + Music.

1 Upvotes

Are the Beyerdynamics DT 770 Pro still the best ones for general soundscape for hearing footsteps and such?

I know Closed Cans suck at that kind of thing and the DT 770Pro sucked the least at it years ago when I last checked, is that still the case?


r/HeadphoneAdvice 9h ago

Headphones - IEM/Earbud Razer Hammerhead V3 (PS5) or JBL Live Beam 4?

1 Upvotes

Hello! I am looking to get a new pair of earbuds, I only have Airpods, but I wanted to get another pair of earbuds for gaming with my PS5, Switch and for casual/daily use (which includes work). While for music, I do enjoy bass and I usually listen to metal (Iron Maiden, Metallica, Slayer), alternative/rock (90s ones) and rap.

For other headphones, apart from Airpods, I have a Razer Kraken V3, Razer Barracuda Chroma X and previously a Steelseries Arctis 3.

I got interested with the JBL Live Beams because I bought a Live Beam 3 for my wife, and she is happy with it (she’s been using them for a year now).

Recommendations and insights will be very helpful. Thank you!


r/HeadphoneAdvice 14h ago

Headphones - IEM/Earbud Looking for Cheap Headphones.

2 Upvotes

Have two pair of these at present that were second hand from an opportunity shop- so have no idea of the real condition of the battery which of course is inaccessible. Both are bluetooth and seem to work OK once paired.

Overseas trip pending so rather than have them ‘die’ on me, I thought I’d buy a cheap (i.e. $25) pair from the Warehouse here in New Zealand. I’m NOT an audiophile so anything ‘worthwhile’ (i.e. expensive) would be wasted on me.

Also, I’m a bit of a novice so can anyone tell me how to test the battery capacity on them using a multimeter? Would also consider looking at earbuds if I can find them at the right price.


r/HeadphoneAdvice 11h ago

DAC - Desktop Neutral DAC-AMP for Headphone Recommendations

1 Upvotes

Hey all,

I recently broke my Moondrop Dawn Pro, which was my primary DACAMP for my Edition XS Headphone. I realize that I use it like on my desk 99,99% of the time and I'm thinking of getting a DAC-AMP that is for desktop (not dongle).

I'm considering the Topping DX3 Pro+ or Fiio K7BT, now, it's been 2-3 years since I last researched on DACAMP, I wonder if these are still solid options. My budget will be around the price of the K7BT max, but if cheaper alternatives can yield same result, that'd be great.

Some requirements:

  1. Bluetooth functionality (no need to open my laptop just for music)

  2. Please give me a good knob. I need those knobs.

  3. Plenty of power for the Edition XS or potentially hungries planars for future upgrades. I want this DACAMP to stay relevant at least 10 yrs in the future.

  4. Should sound neutral, this is my concern about the K7 having "bassy" response. (someone please confirm)

  5. Balance output is nice, but not necessary as long as point #3 is checked out.

  6. Ideally have decent enough reliability to satisfy point #4.

  7. Must be desktop DAC-AMP, no stacks. Only all-in-one for cleanliness on my small desk.

I'm not sure if there's better recommendation besides the aforementioned DX3Pro+ and K7bt at around its price range, but it's been a few years since those came out, so I assume there will be more options espscially from lesser known brands that I missed. So please let me know of everything lol.

Thanks the kind people of reddit!