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Over-ear closed back headphone for long flight EDITED**** I Went with the Sennheiser PXC 550II!

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Taking a long flight coming up at the end of the month. I am looking for an over-ear headphone that won't disturb who I am sitting next to. I am waiting on the arrival of my 6XX's but have read that they may disturb others sitting next to me. I wanted to start researching some options. Does anyone have a recommendation for around $200? I will be using a XdSd to power them/Dac.
(Edited)
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VRacer111
491
Nov 18, 2019
I would have recommended Etymotic ER3XR IEMs... unparalleled isolation with a clarity and sound signature that very much remind me of the top tier STAX L series Lambdas... for well under $200. Take EQ very well too. Use them at work under loud flow hoods/clean benches... clear, noise free music at lowish volumes.
(Edited)
PeteMtl
440
Nov 14, 2019
You could try to get the Sennheiser PXC550 or the Sennheiser HD1/Momentum 2 over ear Wireless, both of which are now superseded by the PXC550 II and the Momentum 3 headphones. The reason I suggest these two older models is that these headphones are still available in some stores and on Amazon and are quite a bargain compared to the newer versions. In Canada these headphone can be bought for around 260$-280$, so I guess that in the US you may catch these for about 200$. the PXC550II and the Momentum 3 are about 2x the price of the older models, more or less. Now the question: are you better with the 550 or the Momentum? My answer: it depends on your needs. the Momentums sound better, warmer, but the 550s are clearer and have better noise cancelling circuits and are easier to carry and use while travelling. You should buy both on Amazon and return the one that you dislike and keep the one you prefer. Both may be used with the wire or wireless by Bluetooth, and both have ANC, although on the Momentum II you may not desactivate ANC (except in passive mode with a wire). Also both headphones have no need for a DAC/amp on long flights.
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MRphotographycom
71
Nov 15, 2019
PeteMtlthank you! I ordered the PXC550II
rastus
1391
Nov 11, 2019
Just spent 12 1/2 hours flying with IEM’s vs ANC cans. Sound quality with passive isolation on the cheap, IEM. Comfort with a hit in the fidelity department, and more bucks, cans, Sony 1000’s. Had Bose 35’s, stolen,, got Sony ANC wired, still have, would get the 1000’s today.
MRphotographycom
71
Nov 16, 2019
After about 5 hours of use I can say that I am very happy with the sound signature of the PXC 50-II's with the iFi xDsD pushing them along with the great DAC in the xDsD. This is going to be my go to travel setup. Not only that they are so comfortable! Compared to my 6XX's the comfort level is incredible. Honestly, I am really impressed. I haven't used the bluetooth, or noise cancelling features yet. Just listening so far, and so far so GREAT!
MRphotographycom
71
Nov 16, 2019
After about 5 hours of use I can say that I am very happy with the sound signature of the PXC 50-II's with the iFi xDsD pushing them along with the great DAC in the xDsD. This is going to be my go to travel setup. Not only that they are so comfortable! Compared to my 6XX's the comfort level is incredible. Honestly, I am really impressed. I haven't used the bluetooth, or noise cancelling features yet. Just listening so far, and so far so GREAT! 
UchihaItachi
4
Nov 9, 2019
Hi there. You'll have to do your research, but your options are closed back headphones or IEMs. I bought the Meze and I like them a lot, though they may be too bassy to some people. Sennheiser got the Momentum 2 (something like that) which comes in a lot of different variations, some with ANC. A friend of mind has them and they are pretty awesome, but may be a bit above your budget. Looking at IEMs, I bought the shure se215 a few years ago and they were amazing for their price. Thing is, time has passed and the market is now flooded with IEMs of that style, and I guess you can find something better at the 200$ price range. I prefer over ear headphones, so I haven't checked any IEM lately, but there are plenty here on MD and I bet you can find something that can fit you or at least give you a direction. Hope you'll find something soon, and wish you luck. Have fun buddy
MRphotographycom
71
Nov 14, 2019
thank you!! I will check them out, I was Wanting to avoid headphones With the Bluetooth or noise cancelling and other features built in so I could limit my Bluetooth headphone use to only one pair my iem but a few have recommend so definitely with a listen and look!
MRphotographycom
71
Nov 14, 2019
I ended up going with ANC's! I read so much great stuff about the Sony's but ended going with the new PXC 550 II.
joeftan
388
Nov 8, 2019
6XXs are useless on a flight. No isolation at all, for you or those next to you. ANC headphones are best for such a scenario, but won’t have a typical “audiophile” sound. Sony and Bose seem to have the best ANC tech right now, but they’re all over $200. Too bad they’re not running the Drop deal for the 6XX and the Sony ANC headphones for $400 total, right now.
joeftan
388
Nov 15, 2019
👍 I hope they work out great for you! Let us know how you like them. Build up that Senn family.
MRphotographycom
71
Nov 15, 2019
joeftanThanks!! I am hoping so too.
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