Better than the Superlux HD-681 - question for switchers

[h66]

If you were happy with the Superlux HD-681, you'll probably be wondering – like me – if there are any better headphones out there. Over the years, I've tried various models (AKG, Beyerdynamic, others, but not all Superlux). Have you switched from the Superlux HD-681 and found something better, better in the sense of being better for detailed monitoring during the production process?

[h66]

Today would also be Cyber ​​Monday

[Funky40]

Have you switched from the Superlux HD-681 and found something better, ......

I wanted to do that. I´ve donne it......
But more with a main focus to get some more Bass.
And 2nd,with a focus to see -in general- how good "real cans" can be.

i went thru two bigger orders, tested alots, and "Had" to go up to the (at that time) 400.- bucks class ! I finally took several cans around that price area. And only one set of cans in the 100.- area ( ATH-X50 or something, with MUCH enhanced Bass)

i listened at that time over weeks rotating several cans in a row vs. whatever i was doing.

my verdict was, that the HD-681 do not sound cheap or anything like 2 classes below, compared to the 400.- cans.

You can look at spectogramms, the HD681 has some "harsh-er" peak in the highs.
the Bass is linear. I find it good to have an enhanced Bass.
Other than that are these good Cans in my opinion. Lest call it: very OK-cans

To me, the 100-200.- cans were not worth it.
IF go better, fork out more. That´s my opinion, you have to, to make it be worth it.

To notes: The Hifiman sundara came down in price. I saw these at around 279.- or even 259.- at Amazon. i payed 379.- or 359.- at thomann. Its my most used Cans. They work for me just about on anything without a need of a dedicated pre AMP ( i have some, but had problems).
My other more expensive Cans are not as flexible for my taste.

So, the sundara would be my tip for "a first look into something else". Since it´s quite affordable ( at around 279.- or lower)


"More Details" can mean many things.
The HD 681 are stunningly good compared to what they cost.

personally, i think to have many Cans helps too. It is not just about to have "better ones".
It helps to understand "your" cans. It gives them a perspective, a measure, a frame. THIS helps.

final one:
To me alots depends if one is into specific Music Genres ! From there:; which one........

[cryophonik]

Superlux HD-681 are cheap headphones for a reason - their frequency response is far from flat, has piercing highs, and feel very cheap. The K240s that they ripped off (and I own and use as a reference) are a big improvement in every aspect, but still not something I would use for critical listening, mixing, or mastering.

[foosnark]

I really liked the HD-688, at a time when I wasn't willing to spend more on headphones. I liked them enough to buy a second pair just to listen to music at work. The bang for the buck is incredible IMHO.

When I started feeling the need for closed-back headphones for better isolation, I went to German Maestro GMP 8.35D. I do get more detail and clarity with them I think, but then we're talking about punches-above-its-weight $200 headphones vs. punches-above-its-weight $40 headphones...

On both of those I feel like replacing the ear pads is really helpful. The velvety foam pads I have now have slightly less isolation than the standard ones, but are much more comfortable to wear.

[akeia]

And only one set of cans in the 100.- area ( ATH-X50 or something, with MUCH enhanced Bass)

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X is kind of a legend if you like *mucho basso*.

Is there a Superlux equivalent that people recommend? Closed cans with a lot of bass and similar overall quality to the ATH-M50X?

[h66]

yes, but for true monitoring

[Uncle Bastard]

I use Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro 80ohms, which have pronounced bass. They are very comfortable and repairable ( apparently; I haven't damaged mine ).