Headphone Choices

[nickl]

Hi All,

I am helping put together what my school will need to buy for a new video production class, and we are planning on making mobile filming kits which kits can grab and go and shoot videos, most likely in small groups. I am assuming that we will have 1 pair of headphones per kit, and that they should be closed back since we want to minimize outside noise. I have looked at the general equipment recommendations page and have looked at a few headphones, in about the same price range. They are:

• Sony MDR-7506 Headphone ($79)
• Audio-Technica ATH-M40x ($99)
• AKG K553 ($199)
• Sennheiser HD 280 ($99)

Based on durability, sound quality and price, which would you guys recommend for this use case? We are not limited to these specific headphones, but I would like to keep the ones we choose to the under $200 price range, if possible. Feel free to suggest others.

 

We also will be buying headphones for editing stations, preferably also closed back to block out unwanted classroom noise. Due to the likely more gentle scenario and handling by students, what headphones would be optimal in that case? I was considering the same ones for the editing rigs, but I'm completely open to others as well.

[rafazafar]

These might look like ass. but they are light, comfy and have overall good sound. oh its also closed back.
Beyerdynamic DT231 or the newer DT235

Owned a few years ago. Looks cheap and simple, but comfort is huge and its suprisingly durable.
Well at that price, it shouldnt hurt too bad if its stolen or damaged in the field.

both should be around the 50-60usd range. Its just 30usd here in germany

[nickl]

Cool! Would you suggest the same pair for editing stations, or would we want something better?

[Dackzy]

well they use the Sony mdr 7506 in studios so I can't see why you should not get them. I would stay far away from the m40. The k553 should also be good because they a very detailed and the HD 280 I am not sure, they would maybe be nr. 3 on my list.

[Rodinski]

Studios should always produce on flat responses.  Out of the 4, the K553s would be the closest to that.  When I had my 550s, I thought they were pretty decent.  Definitely go with the 553s.