What’s a “step up” from the Sennheiser HD 490 Pros?

[Schnozinator]

Hey ASR! I’m very much still an amateur when it comes to all things audio. With that being said, I’ve been enjoying this new little hobby of mine and have been looking for some new headphones that would be considered a “step up” from my current Sennheiser HD 490 Pros.

I have no preference as far as open back or closed back goes, but would prefer something that’s fairly easy to drive out of the box (no EQ). I WFH and spend 8-10 hours daily at my desk with frequent breaks, so comfort is also important to me. Budget wise I’m not looking to exceed $700.

Thanks a lot!

 

[Multicore]

Welcome.

From what I can tell from Amir's review, those cans are an ok platform for experimenting to learn more about your preferences.

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Headphone Review

This is a review, detailed measurements, listening tests and equalization of Sennheiser HD 490 Pro open back headphone. It was kindly drop shipped to me and costs US $399. The headphone is ultra light courtesy of plastic composite that manage to also feel extremely solid. The included cord...

www.audiosciencereview.com

Learn to apply EQ roughly as Amir did. It's not very difficult. Do you like that better than the ootb sound? If unsure, try something halfway between. Or try applying a bit of a smile. A high shelf. Trial and error. With some practice over time you'll get an idea of what you like and that's a really good idea if you're going to spend a lot of money on and time listening to your headphones.

Think of this work as developing your requirements. Without them people will likely tell you about their favorite ear warmers, not yours.

 

[Blumlein 88]

If you are happy with the current form factor, maybe the HD650's. They are usually a bit less than $400 these days.

Sennheiser HD650 Review (Headphone)

This is a review and detailed measurements of the Sennheiser HD650 open back headphone. I purchase mine back in 2017. It costs US $400 with free shipping as of this writing from Amazon. My sample is near new because I don't use it everyday (due to high noise level, I have to wear closed back...

www.audiosciencereview.com

As an example of what Multicore said about recommending what someone else likes, AKG 371 phones. Around $160 and closed back. It is what I use, and I tried the HD600 and 650 phones first. I thought these were better. You might want to try on a pair first. Some don't like the way the cord can transmit your movement into the cup on one side. Also to make sure the fit comfort is to your liking. Unless you switch to velour pads they can get a bit hot after long periods of use. The AKG 371s are fairly sensitive, a bit better than the Senns, but are a lower impedance.

AKG K371 Review (closed back headphone)

This is a review and detailed measurements of the AKG K371 closed-back headphone. I purchased this last summer and it currently costs US $149 on Amazon including shipping. Note: our company, Madrona Digital, carries various Harman brand products although not the AKG products. The K371 is made...

www.audiosciencereview.com

 

[Blumlein 88]

Oh and if you really want to move up maybe some Dan Clark Aeon RT phones. They have a very low impedance. $500, and you'll need an amp. But a JDS Atom 2 amp for $129 will play them. So still within your budget.

Dan Clark Audio AEON RT Review (closed headphone)

This is a review and detailed measurements of the Dan Clark ÆON RT closed back headphone. It was kindly sent to me by the company for testing and costs US $500. In a sea of similar looking headphones, the ÆON RT manages to distinguish itself with a uniqe shape: This makes the cup smaller...

www.audiosciencereview.com

JDS Atom Amp 2 Headphone Amplifier Review

This is a review, listening tests and detailed measurements of the JDS Labs Atom Amp 2 headphone amplifier. It was sent to me by the company and costs US $129. The solid metal case makes an instant impression, erasing memories of the plastic case of the previous generation. A white LED...

www.audiosciencereview.com