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mtcicero
32
Apr 30, 2017
I'm debating getting these or the k7xx. I'm wondering if these are worth the $200 premium. Money's not a massive issue, but obviously $400 is bigger commitment than $200z. I'm looking to upgrade from a set of Shure srh440s.
amoeba1126
460
Apr 30, 2017
mtciceroBetween those 2 headphones, we are talking about some serious differences in sound signature. The K7xx is very much open (leaks sound in and out like crazy) and quite flat/neutral sounding. The bass cannot even be compared between the two in terms of mid-bass impact. The K7xx will also have a much larger soundstage, which can be better for FPS games. The TH-X00 on the other hand is what we call "fun" or "exciting" headphones. They color the sound (very bass heavy with an overall W-shape FR) and are closed (well... technically semi-closed).
Headphones are an investment given that they don't just die. Jacks and connectors may eventually need to be replaced a decade or so down the line given on frequency of usage, but they are what you paid for.
mtcicero
32
Apr 30, 2017
amoeba1126Thanks for the response-- yeah, on first thought, I'd assume it was better to go for something more neutral and accurate, but it sounds like the fostex ones are quite fun which I guess is the point of listening to music. The K7XX also are kinda less exciting considering the 6XXs are supposedly dropping again at some point this year and seem to be generally agreed to be the better neutral open headphones. I might go for the fostex then. Currently using Shure srh440s so i suppose either would be a massive improvement.
Len11
82
May 2, 2017
mtciceroGo with an HD600. I'm willing to bet most people would choose the HD600 over the TH-X00 if demoed side by side. I say this from demoing many mid-fi and hi-fi cans. The TH-X00 is incredibly V shaped, definitely not for everyone. On the other hand, the HD600 is very well balanced across all frequencies with terrific soundstage (even better than K7XX). Also detachable cables. I'd probably get a lot of hate for this, but I think most people who "fall in love with the TH-X00" are impressed only because they bought into the hype and purchased them as their first high end headphone. I'd much rather take the HD600, DT880, or Momentum 2.0 over them.
amoeba1126
460
May 3, 2017
Len11Most people I know of actually like colored headphones that have a lot of bass, something the HD600 definitely DO NOT have. In fact, most people I know actually prefer the HD650 over the HD600, precisely because the HD650 are more colored (warmer to be exact). You also have to consider factors like efficiency and design when choosing between the two headphones. Here are some of those factors for consideration for example:
HD6x0 Variants - High impedance meaning you want to use them with amps. There is a reason why these pair best with OTL tube amps. - Open design meaning they leak sound in and out, so people will be hesitant to use them outdoors or at the office. - Incredibly lightweight and comfortable, which is why they are popular for long listening sessions at home.
TH-X00 Variants - High efficiency meaning you don't need an amp and can easily use them with portable devices. - Semi-closed so you can use them outside and at the office and not bother people unless they are in your personal space. - Personal note, I love the wood cups and general design over the rather cheap looking (by design) HD6x0.
As you said, some people do not like V-shaped headphones, though the TH-X00 is W-shaped rather than V-shaped and that's why so many like them. If you want to talk about V-shaped headphones, we should be looking at the TH-600, Ultrasone Pro 900, or DT990 as opposed to the TH-X00. At the end of the day, it's about what you want out of your headphones. The TH-X00 are fun and exciting, while the HD650/600 are much more laid back (at times, downright boring) and inoffensive.
I currently own the TH-X00 (modded), HD650, and K553. I have also owned the D5000, HE400i, and LCD-2, so I can definitely say my appreciation is not derived from hype or first time buying high end headphones. Going by your preferences, it seems you like prefer much more neutral/linear headphones. As you mentioned, the TH-X00's sound signature is not for everyone. That also holds true for your HD600, which I owned for about a week before returning it and getting the HD650 instead.
mtcicero
32
May 3, 2017
amoeba1126Thanks for all the advice-- I ended up getting an hd650 and a little dot mkii tube amp for significantly less than the price of the x00s used on eBay. Still waiting on the package to arrive, fingers crossed everything is in good shape. I think it sounds like the 650s are a better fit for me, and anyways it really seems like you can't go wrong with them-- they seem to be a classic headphone.
amoeba1126
460
May 3, 2017
mtciceroThe HD650's are indeed very popular. They are laid back, warm, and have enough mid bass thump to satisfy the majority of listeners. They are also super light and comfortable with velour pads, allowing one to listen to them for hours.
Len11
82
May 3, 2017
amoeba1126I'm still convinced the majority would prefer a balanced neutral headphone over a V-shaped one (I don't think the TH-X00 is W-shaped) if given a fair chance to demo them side by side. Everyone I let demo my TH-X00 had mixed feelings about the recessed mids, even the casual listeners when I pointed out the weakness. I have actually demoed the Pro 900 and DT990 as well. Nothing stood out about the former (it was also a long time ago), but I remember the DT990 was colored in an awful way. Anyways, the point of my post was to warn the OP of the V-shaped sound that is often overlooked here in the comments.
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