Top Headphones for Enjoying Music at Home: My Top Picks
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Choosing the Right Headphones for Home Listening
Initially, I planned to highlight the Philips X2HR in this article. However, I was disappointed to learn that these remarkable headphones have been quietly discontinued by their parent company. Since recommending a product that is no longer available wouldn't be helpful, I revisited my collection and testing database to find worthy alternatives. The two headphones featured in this article may be my second choices, but they still deliver exceptional value and performance—and most importantly, they are currently available for purchase.
It's important to note that I was not compensated or solicited by any of the brands mentioned here, nor do I use affiliate links. I’m simply an enthusiast who has spent years reviewing audio equipment and recently transitioned to gaming gear. Audio has been both a passion and a career for me, owing to nearly two decades of freelance work.
Understanding Home Listening Needs
Listening at home significantly differs from on-the-go listening. While you're likely using a phone as your main music source when out, at home you can afford to choose wired headphones, sit in a quiet environment, and potentially use more powerful devices like amplifiers or computers. Although my selections will still sound good with a phone, open-back headphones excel in home settings, offering a spacious sound while keeping your ears cool during extended listening sessions.
I selected these headphones based on their design and my personal preferences, while also drawing from fresh listening experiences. Though closed-back headphones and noise-canceling options can be suitable for home use, I believe these choices are particularly well-suited for a comfortable at-home listening environment.
HiFiMan HE400SE: A Budget-Friendly Gem
The HiFiMan HE400SE, typically priced around $100, is a fantastic option for anyone focused on price-to-performance ratio. These open-back headphones feature large drivers that create a wide soundstage, making them suitable for various audio experiences, including music, movies, and gaming. While they may not satisfy hardcore audiophiles due to slight alterations in bass and treble, they still produce an impressive sound.
This model requires a bit more power to drive, but with a sensitivity of 91dB and a low impedance of 25 ohms, they can still reach decent volumes from a phone. I’ve successfully used them with my PS5 and Xbox controllers, albeit needing to turn the volume up a bit more than with traditional gaming headsets. Despite not favoring loud volumes, the rich sound quality means you won’t feel the need to crank them up excessively—though an amplifier will enhance the experience.
For those new to planar headphones, you're in for a treat. They offer a unique bass presence compared to dynamic drivers. While open-back headphones usually lack impactful bass, the HE400SE provides accurate and beautiful bass. Interestingly, wearing glasses doesn’t diminish the bass experience. In fact, slightly moving the headphones away from your ears can enhance bass response, which is contrary to how dynamic drivers behave. You can be assured of getting quality sound even without a perfect fit.
The headphones have an adjustable headband and spacious ear pads that make them comfortable for extended listening. Although they are heavier and a bit more challenging to drive than the Philips X2HR, their sound quality and immersive experience make them one of my favorite choices for gaming.
Budget-Friendly Option: Monoprice Semi-Open Back Headphones
If you're seeking an economical option that doesn't compromise on sound quality, consider the Monoprice semi-open back headphones, which often retail for around $50. These headphones are a semi-open variant of the well-known Takstar Pro 80. You can frequently find them on sale for prices that are hard to resist.
The sound signature leans towards a V-shaped boost, offering a fun listening experience while retaining enough detail to avoid sounding poor. Though the bass is pleasantly present, it lacks some energy in the sub-bass range. The upper midrange and treble exhibit a similar character to more expensive Beyerdynamic headphones, making them a great choice for casual listening.
My initial impressions of these headphones were less than favorable. However, after revisiting them in preparation for this article, I’ve come to appreciate their sound quality much more than I did previously, especially given their low price point.
While the adjustment range may not be as extensive as the HiFiMan model, they fit comfortably enough for most users. The permanently attached cable is durable, and the included 6.3mm adapter adds versatility. You'll find that, while they allow some ambient sound in, they do a commendable job of containing audio at moderate volumes, so you won’t disturb those around you.
If you're looking for even cheaper alternatives, the Koss KPH30i is a solid on-ear option with great sound quality. For more bass and a removable cable, consider the SHP9600, although it’s slightly more expensive and may not provide as much detail in the treble range.
In conclusion, while my preferences have shifted over time, I still hold the HiFiMan HE400SE in high regard due to its superior sound quality. Recent changes in the audio market serve as a reminder that even iconic models can disappear unexpectedly, reinforcing the idea that it might be prudent to invest in headphones from brands that specialize in audio technology.