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Ask HN: Non-audiophile looking for first quality headphones

2 points by caseyw ↗ HN
In a recent HN post I saw people mention Bose as a less desirable brand for headphones. I’ve always thought it was the better brand likely due to marketing.

I’m not looking for any brand bashing, but more of what I should look for that will help make an educated decision when purchasing a nice set of cans.

Thanks HN!

9 comments

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Finnucane
Do you have a budget? I got pair of Audio-Technica headphones that weren’t very expensive and suit me pretty well. Do you care about noise-cancelling or other fancy features?
caseyw
I'd like to spend under 300, and noise cancelling would be nice.
pettycashstash2
For Bluetooth I’ve enjoyed Sony Mx wireless version. Has Boise cancelling and quite good from a sound perspective
eightothree
I like Panasonic ErgoFit RP-HJE120 Earbud Headphones. It's super cheap, sounds incredible and nearly indestructible. Great for gym or any outdoors work.
dfraser992
If you are concerned about technical details, try [1]. I spent hours on this site when looking for a pair of wireless headphones - I got tired of dealing with the myriad of other (pseudo)review sites plugging specific brands that were more just marketing copy and so obviously untrustworthy. In the process, I learned about features I had no idea existed and ended up buying something slightly more expensive than I normally would buy, but it will cover all my possible needs.

[1] https://www.rtings.com/

caseyw
What did you end up going with?
dfraser992
I got the HD 4.40 BT from Sennheiser. I thought I'd buy something cheap (under $40) but ended up wanting NFC connectivity, cable connectivity, low enough latency to watch videos (did not realize that was a big issue)...
karmakaze
I concur that Bose isn't great for sound quality. Their noise-cancellation is quite good although others have caught up/surpassed them.

I'm a bit of an audio snob so don't do wireless. The Sony MDR-7506 is my default go-to. It's light and has the best midrange/mid-high detail and tone.

I do keep a pair of Bose QuietComfort for plane trips and office privacy (wearing better quality earbuds underneath).

I can't deny the convenience of wireless and will likely get the Sony which offers a wireless/wired combo in the same model.