Headphone recommendations for music/casual gaming

[backflip118]

Alright, so I have accidentally tripped over and shorted my brothers headset. (a basic Logitech g230) I want to replace it with something nicer, but I know very little about audio and was hoping to get a better idea of what I need to be looking for.

I'm fairly set on moving away from a headset and getting him a modmic + headphones. He does not want a desktop mic but does a lot of voice chat and sometimes records little gameplay videos. Outside of casual gaming, he is a very good piano player and listens to a lot of classical piano music; he wants to record his playing in the future and I'd like to get him something that helps with that as well.

I assume that 3.5mm connection is standard, but if not, that's what he needs so he can use his 3DS amd other mobile devices.

So what might I be looking for? How much difference does open or closed make? I've seen plenty of suggestions to get an amp, but I would think getting headphones that work well with mobile would not benefit from an amp that much. Budget is around $100, not oppossed to going a little higher if the quality gain is worth it.

Thanks for the help!

 

[Robert Ban]

Depends, it doesn't matter with Just headphones, sometimes actually sound card can make difference. On my PC sound is awfull with realtek, after trying OLD 2003 soundblaster it blow my ears how good it was (1 hour on max sound).

Well over ear are good if you want to isolate sound, on ear are usually less painfull for long period of time (if finding soft ones).
I have random Gaming X headphones and they have a pretty awesome kick.
Logitech is good as usual with sound.

 

[Graybush]

Hi there!

Our writers have a Best Page dedicated to the Best Headphones you can find! You can find it here: https/www.tomsguide.com/us/best-headphones,review-1988.html

Hope that helps!

 

[backflip118]

Thanks Robert, guess I'll be looking for over ear. I'd go for a soundcard but he just needs the headset for now. and I'll check out that list Viddyvane, thanks!

 

[Robert Ban]

Well if he had over ear you should buy over ear but find comfortable ones.
Sound card was optional.

 

[Deleted member 217926]

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x. Closed back.

https/www.amazon.com/dp/B00HVLUR54?ref=emc_b_5_t

Philips SHP9500S. Open back.

https/www.amazon.com/dp/B00ENMK1DW/ref=psdc_12097479011_t3_B004FEEY9A

Sennheiser HD 579. Open back.

https/www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-HD-579-Open-Headphone/dp/B01L1IIF1K/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

These would all benefit from an amp/DAC but are easily driven with a phone or other mobile device. All these blow away any 'gaming' headset.

Edit:

Just reread that he likes classical. The SPH 9500s might be the best choice of the three for him then. They're often favorably compared to the Sennheiser HD 600s ( I own 600s ) and they are very resolving and accurate. Google some reviews.

 

[backflip118]

Thanks Anort3, I think that has put me on the right track.