The Best Affordable Headphones: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to headphones, the old adage 'you get what you pay for' is not always true. Everyone's hearing is different, just as everyone's palate is different when it comes to wine. The quality of sound you're experiencing from a headset can be highly subjective and deeply personal.

Testing and Subjectivity

Many reviews and comparisons can be misleading due to the methods used by the reviewers. Some tests are conducted in a manner that doesn't accurately represent the potential of a product. For example, a set of basic PC speakers is often tested on an on-board motherboard sound stage, resulting in lackluster results. However, the same speakers tested with a high-end sound card may show a drastically different outcome because of the quality of the playback device and not the speaker itself.

Essential Considerations

For a quality listening experience, headphone amplification is a must. It's important to have a good source, such as a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC). One recommendation is the Schiit Magni 3, a powerful headphone amplifier that's suitable for a variety of headphones. You may need to supplement this with a USB audio interface to serve as a DAC, and there are many affordable options available on websites like Craigslist or from manufacturers like M-Audio, Presonus, and Steinberg.

Finding Affordable Headphones

When looking for good deals, websites like Craigslist can be your ally. Many users sell headphones at discounted prices, and you can often find a great pair. Since my experience, the Sony MDR-V700 has proven to be among the best, but as it's been around for quite some time, it may no longer be available. My current favorite are the Pioneer SE-A1000, which are known for their excellent sound quality and comfort. However, they may not be as easy to find.

Types of Headphones

To make the right purchase, you need to determine the type of headphones that suit your needs. There are mainly two types of headphones: circumaural and on-ear. Circumaural headphones cover the entire ear, whereas on-ear headphones just rest on the central part of the ear. On-ear headphones are less preferred due to comfort issues. Additionally, you need to decide whether you want open-back or closed-back headphones. Open-back headphones allow ambient noise, making them suitable for use in public or while traveling, while closed-back headphones provide a more isolated listening experience.

Avoid Wireless Headphones

Wireless or Bluetooth headphones are not recommended for a superior listening experience. They are limited by the quality of their internal DAC and amplification, which is often inferior to a dedicated stand-alone DAC and amplifier. If you don't need the mobility of wireless headphones, stick to wired ones for the best sound quality.

Driver Size Matters

A larger driver size, such as at least 30mm, is recommended for better bass performance. This is crucial for a fuller sound experience. Smaller drivers may result in a compromised sound, with bass being significantly less impactful and rich.

Conclusion

Before you invest in more headphones, make sure you have a proper DAC and amplifier. This will not only enhance the sound quality of your existing headphones but also make them more enjoyable to use. Whether you're a music lover or a professional requiring high-quality sound, investing in the right equipment can mean a world of difference in your listening experience.