Budget Headphone Shootout! - AKG K361, Status CB1, OneOdio Monitor 60, Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
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- Опубліковано 7 жов 2024
- AKG K361 amzn.to/3JbrZaM
AKG K371 amzn.to/32o4tqp
Oneodio Monitor 60 amzn.to/3Emcfhq
Sennheiser HD280 Pro amzn.to/32sykxR
Status Audio CB1 amzn.to/3syNQTT
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Recommended Speaker List
Around $100 (These prices will fluctuate between $75 - $150)
Sony SSCS5 - Lively amzn.to/3pZNnGk
Pioneer AJ First Gen - Laid Back
Neumi BS5 -Neutral amzn.to/3q0SR3B
Around $200
Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ - Crystal Clear and Punchy emotiva.com?aff=9
Elac Debut b5.2 - Neutral amzn.to/2WPNQxw
Wharfedale Diamond 11.2 (In and Out of Stock) - Laid Back/Bassy/Detailed amzn.to/37W8hPA
JBL Stage A130 - Neutral/Great All Arounder at $179 the best value amzn.to/3t7gOHe
Around $400
Klipsch RP600M - Neutral amzn.to/3pBoXCf (This speaker’s price can fluctuate between $440-630 which is really dumb)
Jamo C93ii Bit - Boosted on Top amzn.to/3beIG6F (Can also be found cheaper at Crutchfield)
Q Acoustics 3030i - Neutral with Punch - amzn.to/2OQkpLo
Around $500
SVS Prime bit.ly/2LozJgF
Wharfedale Diamond 12.2 bit.ly/2ZckoD9
Around $600
Elac Uni-Fi UB5.2 - Neutral amzn.to/3s3srPG
Elac Debut Reference - Buttery but Detailed amzn.to/39bt6WC
Polk Reserve R100 - Neutral
Aperion Novus - Neutral and probably the best desktop speaker one can get $599 bit.ly/2Q1H9rW
Aperion Novus Open Box $449 bit.ly/3us8zGx
Wharfedale Diamonds Lush and Detailed amzn.to/3aBAso0 Come as singles
Recommended Amp List
Under $100
Aiyima A07 - Neutral and Full amzn.to/3g9YLNf
Around $130
SMSL AD18 - DAC/Amp Lively on top but solid tone controls amzn.to/3rVZxkN
SMSL SA300 $140 amzn.to/3u83oLs
Around $250
SMSL DA-9 Balanced Amp amzn.to/34SdbLs
Around $400
Emotiva TA-100 - DAC, Phono Stage, Pre Outs - Balanced and Tasty emotiva.com?aff=9
Vista Audio Spark www.vista-audio...
Recommended DACs
Ifi Zen DAC amzn.to/2T3wuyY
FX D01 amzn.to/3d9GY6U
SMSL SU8s amzn.to/2SWTGiw
Denafrips Ares 2 www.denafrips....
Subs
Emotiva SE8 emotiva.com?aff=9
Emotiva SE12 emotiva.com?aff=9
SVS SB1000 Pro bit.ly/3scmwsc
AKG K361 amzn.to/3JbrZaM
---AKG K371 amzn.to/32o4tqp
------Oneodio Monitor 60 amzn.to/3Emcfhq
--------Sennheiser HD280 Pro amzn.to/32sykxR
--------Status Audio CB1 amzn.to/3syNQTT
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------------Best Buy Holiday Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH
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massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5
Amazon Music and Disney Plus Free Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9
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Where is M40X? That is the top contender and not here. Why?
Great review, Randy. I appreciate you letting us know that there are advantages in the sub $100 to not spend money on something that won't bring as much joy. I use the KPH30's because I am old and didn't grow up in the headphone era and most feel restricting and make my head sweat.
I use KPH30s as my daily drivers. They are awesome. So light I forget I'm wearing them.
Yeah, KPH30!
Those are the only ones I keep returning to.
I got the OneOdio Pro 30 about a year ago because I was tired of using IEMs for my work calls. I’m actually shocked that they still look new. Not the greatest for music, but work fine for my calls. They are on my head for at least 4 hrs a day.
Thank you for saying unboxings are stupid I can't believe people will watch other people take something out of a bloody box!
The only UA-camr who makes unboxing actually fun is Unbox Therapy. Otherwise, Im skipping it. Lew is doing something no one else can.
Hey Randy. I just received my Sith Audio door hinges and already I can hear that a veil has been lifted in my music. They seem to improve the sound the closer I bring them to the stereo. Can't wait to hear what improvements they will bring when I actually install them. If they really move the music to the next level I will install them on all my doors and buy an extra set just to sit next to the rack.
Randy was spot on about the point of failure of the CB-1's that's EXACTLY where mine broke
wow. So sorry to hear that
I've owned my Sennheiser 280 Pros for around 20 years. I use them for audio/video production. The 280's flat eq makes great for listening for errors in recordings, not really for leisure listening. Mine were $100 back then and the same price now.
He is talking about the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro that was launched in 2016.
I had an old pair for a long time and then I laughed when Zeos said he also did and they were his first pair of enthusiast headphones from when he didn't really care about headphones yet. I picked up a pair of the newer ones a while back. Great isolation
You beat me. I’ve got a set of hd25s but mine are only 15 years old
Ok… call me old fashioned, but Sony MDR7506. Built very well, battle tested, been around for quite awhile. They are “professional “ after all. Very balanced sound and under $100-all day long.
They are good, but they are not professional in the sense of listening music, they are professional to record music, they are in a lot of studio because for the price, they are good in the voice frequency, so you're sure the singer wearing them will hear what is singing clearly, more than hearing the rest clear but not his/her voice.
For having testing MDR-7506 and K361 (if found K371 even better), the AKG was better than Sony for listening music, and if you use EQ on your headphones (not one set of headphones is perfect), it's easier to EQ the AKG to make it really great
Now, they are also closed-back, which is not the best for long listening sessions. In this case, better try opened headphones. The Hifiman HE400SE seems to be (one of) the best sound/price ratio at this moment
I agree. Every set of headphones that I’ve listened to in that ballpark price always lacks the clarity and punch of Sony MDR-7506.
They are not just for studios especially if you are getting older like myself and have lost some top end in your hearing. Drawback of that they are no longer as convenient as modern Bluetooth headphones. The major problem to get the same clarity and punch of my 25ish old Sony headphones in a modern headphone is you would have to step up in price big time.
So I just use my AirPods for everyday use. Relaxing on my couch and getting deep into Pink Floyd or Led Zep, yeah I want my Sony headphones.
Looks like I ordered the right headphones to evaluate: I just ordered the K-361, the HD 280 Pro, and the DT 770 Pro 80 Ohms, along with some cheaper knockoffs to see how they stack up. My reference cans are DT 880 Edition 600 Ohms which sound awesome but don't work well for recording/practicing/jamming along with music on my bass guitar. They sound great for this purpose but are to quiet and too open. So what I'm looking for is a pretty much flat, maybe slightly sounded response, along with a reasonably strong but tidy bass response. Clear and even low mids are a must.
Had a set of SD280s for almost 20 years, love em. Was thinking of getting a set of 560S for my Christmas present but I can't get over the goofy cable /plug adapter.
they are one of my favorite headphones. I think they sound brilliant
I have the 560s and they sound OK for a bit, but the lack of bass and weird spike in the upper/mid freq made them too boring and fatiguing for long sessions. They are pretty neutral, but not a lot of fun when listening to music. They can be EQd pretty easily tho. IMO
I can see Saturday Headphone Shoot Out in the future? Great review and thanks for giving us the run down on these headphones.
GRADO SR80x or 60x would also be good alternatives in this price range. I was surprised how much I like my 80x.
ear bleeding
@@joelopez7459 You might want to get that looked at.
Thanks for a useful review. Have a Merry Christmas.
AKG 361 for me. I wear them for hours either YouTubing or listening to music while playing games. Adding Dekoni Suede pads made them a lot more comfortable and much cooler than stock pads. Just sorry I waited until the dogs ate the original pads before I replaced them!
The Phillips SHP9500 are my favorite headphones under $150
I'd have really liked to hear your views on the comparably priced Grado SR-60x and SR-80x. I've had a set of OG SR-60's for years and they have held up well and sound great. If you want a real bargain basement shocker, there's the Koss PortaPro - stunning for the money! The downside is the cheap head band tends to grab longer hair.
Grado SR60X is my choice for $99 bucks, also made in usa
I've got lots of headphones and I've gone through a lot. I've got the SR325e, just bought $15 (£20uk) PSYC ENZO and they beat the Grado.
Expensive isn't always the best.
I also have the Grado SR-60's and Koss PortaPros. I use the Grado's mostly when I'm hooked up to my home setup or don't mind bringing along my topping nx-2 amp. The PortaPros are perfect for when I just want something compact as they achieve adequate levels powered by my Android, and sound pretty damn good doing it. I also have a set of Audio Technica ATH-EQ300M clip on's for when I need something smaller. I tried some KZ in ears that sounded fantastic, and for only $25, but I quickly gave them away as I have never been able to enjoy any in ears beyond the initial listen. My ex took my Monoprice closed backs so I need to find a replacement. The Grado's are great.but not everything is meant for the world to hear..
Another great one, Randy. I totally agree about the Status; all show, no go! Cheaply built, and muddy sound. Had to return mine after getting them on sale for $49. Just got a pair of HifiMan 400SE for $129..........very nice.
Love my M40x , usually less than M50s also. Have several closed backs and always reach for those. Hard to beat “at this price point”. Thx Randy
I jus got th m40x for an early Christmas present & luv them. So glad I passed on m50x b/c of th way people describe their highs, got sensitive hearing & can't deal with th sharp/metallic treble🍻
The older M40fs were great. They were in production for around 20 years before the M40x and M50x took over.
I've used mine (m40fs) for a very, very long time. I even went around and bought all that I could find used in good condition. If the M40x is a reliable and consistent predecessor that'll be what I'll be buying I suppose.
AKG are the best budget 🎧 . Happy Christmas from across the pond in England 🇬🇧🇺🇸💕
Keep up the good work! Recently bought a amazon fire tablet with USB charging. Then bought a USB C headphone DAC (tons of the on Amazon) RCA to 1/4 cable. I use the tablet for Amazon music streaming and get full HD quality. Also downloaded the itunes apk and installed it. Amazon music and itunes now both stream in HD , and gapless. I use my Yamaha stereo . Sounds alot better than Bluetooth
Sony MDR-7506 are still my go to headphones for relaxing on the couch and going into a Pink Floyd, Led Zep, and Van Halen listening binge. Best $100 headphones IMO.
Everyday I will just use AirPods.
randy my man, thanks to you now im so happy with the loxjie d30, but the hd280pro with eq are such a great headphones, build like a take, amazing detail, and 100usd.
i remember hearing the monk 3 headphones from a friend, literally 3$ and to this day they are the best bang for the buck buds ive ever heard, if your looking for disposable headphones, i have no idea if there still available
Great video. I'd throw in the Koss PortaPro's. They're great for the price and light and easy to travel with. They're only about $50 or less so not expensive.
If portability and efficiency are paramount to you they are hard to beat. Comfortable as hell as well. They look like something from an 80's dollar store, but damn do they rock out, and they don';t need an amp to do so.
Thumbs up for the "audiophile pliers" I chuckled quite a bit.
Right well you were talking about the Status ads I got the very ad you were showing 🤣
Samson sr850. Best headphone I’ve ever experienced. Extremely cheaply built, but very bright and “cheerful” sounding. I think they sound better than my Sennheiser dt770 pro’s. They may have cut costs on the chassis, but they sound way better than $50 headphones should!
you mean beyer
just found this guy.
awesome deadpan guy.... love him
subscribed!
Creative Aurvana Live (CAL) are incredible for $50. Sound great and can handle lots of power.
Nice orange handle channel locks! Excellente.
The 40x is better then 50x just tryin to pass good info around!
I love my k361's . They're tanks . Ears get warm but I love them . They can be eq'd and they resolve really . I bought them for my Brother now the more I listen to them I don't wanna give them to him 😹😹😹
Review the Roda NTH-100 at $150 price tag, I like to know your opinion
At that price the Grado SR60 (sometimes SR80 on sale) is worth looking at too. They’re an open can, which is not for everyone. But man they’re a delight to listen to.
I love my SR-60's, but I listen to too much hate and discontent for them to be appropriate on a 4 hour flight. Need to find a decent closed back to replace my cheapo Tascams.
never tried those though i know UA-camr "Dankpods" likes them. These dont have deep bass but everything else sounds great (and dont get me wrong, the bass IS THERE) ... Another one of Dankpod's picks, the Samson SR850's I love
Those pliers are also ideal for pulling teeth. I use AKG52 to listen on my computer because AKGs are so comfortable. Sony MDR7506 to mix because they are flat but still sound great. And ATH M40X to master because I like the bass boost once I am no longer doing anything but setting volume. My 280s pro also add too much bass like the ATH M40X.
you are too fun wow i can believe something as serious as looking for good headphone can be fun without trying toooo hard
Randy, love your channel and I'm a super happy subscriber! You do great work. But.... really would like to see the Sony MDR-7506 included as a baseline for this comparo. They seem like the "standard" at this price range.
I have them. they're super hot on top. I should have included
Enjoyed the headphone content. Could you do an affordable planar shootout?
Sure
Love your videos great fun and really interesting. Merry Xmas from Switzerland.
Take off your glasses while listening to the K361. You have thicker glasses like me. Dan Clark taught me to always wear my glasses in a way that doesn't break the seal around my ears when listening to headphones and since then I've been amazed by how much of a bass boost I get with many different headphones. You can test this by taking your glasses off while music is playing. Once you get a good seal you can reposition your glasses in a way that doesn't break that seal.
I picked up a set of AKGK612 for very little money. They sound great with my Zen DAC. They need quite a bit of driving though.
Koss KPH30i or KPH40 are very good for the money. Would love to see your review on them.
GRADO SR80x
Great work as always. I do wish you would have weighed in on the AT M50x in comparison though. I've bought every pair of the ancient AT M40fs that I'm likely to find. It's my go to mixing headphone and has been for a long time. I'd love to hear your take on the newer AT M series stuff someday.
Keep up the good work sir! You're always entertaining.
The m40x is good. My favorite closed back by audiotechnica rn is the msr7b, the second iteration of the msr7.
I don't have the K361's, but I do have the AKG K240 "Studio" headphones, which have more in common soundwise with the K240 mkII model than they do with the same vintage headphones made in Austria. That aside, they are good for what they are; Semi-open but they're great for phone calls, and they're warm and toasty for music listening too. Light on bass but fixed with an EQ if that's your bag.
No complaints. Except the detachable XLR cord is turning brittle and cracking after 3 years of daily use. One complaint.
I've owned a couple of pair of status audio CB ones and they didn't used to make commercials. I have noticed a difference between an older pair and the newer ones there was a big Sonic difference in them. I only use these for my podcast and when I'm recording but it's only my voice so it really doesn't make that much difference. I've had other status audio products that I've sent back because the quality just wasn't there. It seems when they first got started they were better than they are now. I wonder if anyone else has had that theory or thought
I believe I've owned (or still own) nearly every single status product they've made over the past 6 years or so. I've enjoyed almost every single one, too. BUT, wow, are they cheaply made. In fact, their over-ear Bluetooth Flagship ANC (which have been out of production for about 2 years now) broke right at the hinge after only about 2 years of use, but I still use them almost daily bc they sound so good (better than the Sony 1000XM5s which I also own and were twice the price). I rigged the cup back into place using wire and duct tape and, tho' they barely set on my head now (haha), they work fine for lying in bed at night watching TV.
I have the CB-1s too but I only spent $41 on them with a coupon code (plus shipping)--so, in my mind, for under $50, I think they sound great for that price. Amazingly, despite their cheap construction, I've had them for about 5 or 6 years now and they're still holding up, but I also haven't used them as consistently as my old Sennheiser HD280 Pro's, which eventually broke after many years of frequent use.
I can't speak exactly to your theory because it's likely the CB-1s I own are that revised variant, and the only other wired product of theirs I own are wired IEMs I received from them free with the purchase of their first Bluetooth headphones, the BT-1 (both items since discontinued).
To me it seems that their focus has simply changed. They've streamlined their product offerings, with the CB-1 as their only wired option, and basically only have 3 other models (disregarding color variants), all wireless.
It seems they are primarily focused on promoting their bluetooth triple driver in-ears. I also own both models (the Between Pro and Between 3ANC). The Between Pros sounded very good, but had really spotty bluetooth connectivity and poor case design (the buds recessed too deeply into the case, so pulling them out was difficult). I eventually stopped using them because getting both buds to pair simultaneously (imagine that) was a frustrating exercise in futility. It's possible my pair were simply faulty, but I opted to just use the Samsung Bud Pros I had instead, which didn't sound as good or clear, but at least they paired seamlessly with my Samsung phone.
When Status released the updated version--the Between 3ANC--in their marketing emails they claimed to address some of the issues users had with the previous model, namely the poor case design (not to mention also adding features like active noise canceling and IPX-5 water resistance). Indeed, they did--they sound just as good as the previous model, no connectivity issues this time and, lo and behold, I can simply grab them from their case without feeling like I need to carefully claw them out with my nails.
Some caveats--I've noticed some users have shown that the buds have snapped when replacing tips. To me, this does not seem like an easy thing to do, and I've replaced the tips several times without issue. Can't say whether these individuals were simply being careless, or possibly there is a weak spot in the buds' construction.
Indeed, I have not been happy with everything Status has made. Their Core ANC Bluetooth over-ear, which they released around the time they discontinued their Flagship model, are the worst sounding product I've heard from them. These were considerably cheaper than the Flagships were, and they sound like it, but surprisingly are better constructed--meaning they don't feel like they'll easily break at the hinge like the Flagships did, but they are also not nearly as comfortable as the Flagships were, and they sound really muddy and distant. I received these also at a considerable discount after I told them about the broken Flagships.
But it's hard to say whether I recommend them to everyone. I think for how much you spend, you get very good sound quality (tho' perhaps my ears aren't as discerning as most audiophiles), but not much longevity. For how easily their products can break tho', especially if one is not particularly careful, I think the Status "MSRP" is too high. But they frequently have significant promotions and sales so you almost never have to spend that much. And my experience with their customer service has always been positive.
Again to your inquiry, it would seem that in several cases, their products have downgraded in quality, but in the case of products they really want to focus on--where I suppose they may believe the biggest market is, such as wireless earbuds--they have not.
I guess time will tell whether they choose to expand their product line again. I'd like to see a revised Flagship over-ear--something with the same sound signature as the previous one, but with much better build quality.
Any sub-$100 should probably include the Monoprice 8323. You can buy and repad them (if you want) for less than $40
For anyone not afraid to buy off eBay, there are some k361 headphones available around $75
Great review man, I think sennheiser hd58x also a great budget headphone under $150-170. Please review those.
One of my favs ( I have a few) are my sennheiser hd25s
I've had the Sony MDR-V6 and its bigger brother, the 50mm DJ version and neither could compare to the Monoprice Retro at... dare I say it... at $30.00. I've tried other Monoprice headphones and thought they were awful, but the Retros... goodness gracious. OTOH, I am getting old, and I can't hear well above 12K, but a LOT of people like the Retros, yet they are never included in budget comparos. Anyone have any thoughts?
What, no Grado's?
THE STORY OF THE FIRST CHRISTMAS:
Said the shepherd boy to the little lamb. Do you hear what I hear? Way up in the sky little lamb. A sound, a sound high above the tree, with a voice as big as the sea. I wonder what stereo equipment God has. The voice is as a big as the sea.
LAMB: Then it's not a stereo stupid. And that friggin' star was not ever there before and its so bright it's hurtin' my eyes. You can see my fleece in the dark now. This is REALLY HAPPENING.
On second thought I better not. Merry Christmas.
No Grado SR60x?
I don't have them in house unfortunately
I've got a ton of headphones. My favorites Wired On/Over Ear ones are the Alessandro MS1 by Grado, the Harman Kardon CL, and by a solid measure, the Massdrop Sennheiser 6xx. All under $200 when purchased ✌️
I'm a big fan of the Harman-Kardon CL too, along with the Beyerdynamic DT235, and AKG K451. The Kawai SH-9 is also well worth a listen - it's designed by Audio Technica and marketed at digital piano users, but it's an impressive all-round performer.
@@thisisnev I was unaware of the Kawai. Thanks for the heads up. Yes, the HK CLs got little love when they came out, but they're rock solid beauties ✌️
under $100 akg k240 all day everyday! neutral not for bass heads but beautiful tone and texture. i also have a pair of one odio pro 10... dj style for kids.they were only $35. i thought they sound fun. clamping was too much for me. at this price point, you have to mention koss!
Another awesome video. Thank you.
Randy, Check out the Shure SRH440 closed back professional headphones for $100 at Amazon, Sweetwater, and Sam Ash. They are beautifully balanced and very natural sounding. Very good baas but not exagerated: great mids and crisp highs (not over done). The build quality is also quite good and they come with a detachable cord (standard and mini jacks). Love your great reviews and sense of humor! Joe C
m50x's are also definitely more for making music rather than listening. With them, I'm just trying to make things sound bearable but never really getting there. Then I try the mix on k240's which sound really agreeable and open in comparison and I feel like I'm a mixing god.
I have a 3-yr-old OneOdio Pro50s and an almost 3-yr-old ATH-M40x. Simply because I despised the ATH-M50x. 😅
What can you say about the OneOdio Pro 50? How are they expressed in relation to m40x?
Hi Randy, wow, I have a different experience with the Status Audio CB1s.
Yes, they are cheap Chinese made, but I knew that going in. Most headphones are made in China and with few exceptions all plastic (yes, even the ones that cost thousands). I own two pair of the Status CB1s. I got the first pair specifically for audio work such as vinyl record sonic grading during restoration.
I spent an undue amount of money looking for neutral headphones (aka studio monitors) for that task. I also prefer a more neutral sound for music listening, which for me is speakers 99% of the time.
My current stable of cans (with no intent to add more) are:
Sennheiser HD518s ($120) (My first pair of "audiophile" cans) My most comfortable headphones, but also my worst sounding. At first I thought they were great, but after about 3 hours I discovered I was not hearing music at all, just mud. Not good for anything except keeping my ears warm, which I do not like. That is when I quickly learned that "Audiophile" generally means crappy 99% of the time.
Takstar Pro 80s. I bought these because they were around $70 and came with a nice hardshell case. (I like to call it one of those things where you are buying the case and get the headphones free). As it turned out, they are half metal or aluminum or whatever. They are closed back. However, they are one of my least comfortable cans around the ears. The sound is a major U shape, but they are surprisingly fun to listen with and not incredibly fatiguing. You will be ripping them off your head from the discomfort long before you notice fatigue.
AKG K7xx - I bought these on the promise they were neutral and had excellent staging. My experience is different, but they aren't bad. They are comfortable and good for listening I'd say.
Status Audio CB1 version 1 = I got these on the promise they are studio monitors and therefore neutral and they were cheap at $50. When I inquired about them I got a further discount on the promise that I would let them know what I think. (ok, no problem). Note: They are different from the version 2s you have. More on that later.
Sennheiser HD6XX (AKA HD650) - I bought these based on reviews as I was looking for my last pair of cans that could be used for listening on rare occasion. I also find them expensive. I had assumed that they would have the Sennheiser comfort of my HD518s. Wrong, they are one notch more comfortable than my Takstars, which means pretty uncomfortable. It is the clamping force on them. Why did Sennheiser make the clamping force enough to hold large pieces of wood together for using pressure active adhesives? I asked Sennheiser this as well and got a non-answer. I got a pair of nuggets from Dekoni to see if it helps, which I have not tried yet. The HD6XX is also not broken in yet. Out of box sonics, it sounds like they have potential to be alright for listening, better than the HD518s and far better than the HD800s.
I don't use headphones often, I find them to be a necessary evil on occasion. That said though it still makes sense to find a pair you like.
One reason I do not like headphones for listening is the lack of staging. No headphone no matter the brand, has even decent staging in my experience. That is just the nature though. Unless you use some sort of processing, you can't have staging with headphones. Speakers are a different matter, because you have "setup" involved with speakers where you can manipulate the staging.
So after my AKGs I gave up looking for staging. In regards to that though, I will say my AKGs are my best performers in that area for what its worth.
As mentioned, I have 2 pair of the Status CB1s, versions 1 and 2. I prefer the version 1 slightly over the version 2, which are the ones you reviewed. I do agree, they did something to the voicing on version 2 that I also don't care for. They also changed the ear pads (which can make a large difference as well). The pads on version one are much thicker than version two and yes, they are also voiced differently. The version 1 does not have the very obvious bump in the 300Hz or the upper frequencies. (I have no measurement devices for that task though). I use my CB1s strictly for checking my work so to speak and not for listening. I did try them for listening and while I am one who prefers neutral, I found them fatiguing (both versions) after about 15 minutes. There are other headphones I tried in the three to four figure range that I found fatiguing in around 2 minutes.
In my journey, I found that you have to choose headphones based on use and personal sonic preference of course, the same goes for speakers. I find reviews on headphones and speakers pointless beyond discussion of build quality and measurements and should be taken with a salt lick. It is not the fault of the reviewer or anything, it is the nature of it. We all have different hearing, different preferences, etc. One persons sonic bliss is another's nightmare. I have tried hundreds of headphones from $29 to $4000. With the exception of ear pads and sonic signature, they all sound either meh or terrible to me.
The sound also depends on the amplification. Using a phone or PC to evaluate headphones is not useful at all. The amplification and such are crap. The best you will get from phones and PCs is crap, I don't care what outrageous claims Audioquest makes or whatever. For example (again personal experience): I don't find the CB1s to be a huge problem especially for my uses. The version 2 I do notice the bumps, but I would not call them as extreme as you did. Again, I prefer the version ones where the bumps are subtle at best. That said though amplification makes a huge difference as well. I generally use a 2nd generation Schiit Audio Magni or a straight connect to my CD player or Preamp. That will be vastly different than a phone or PC.
As for Status Audio advertising, I have the same opinion for all advertising: Pay zero attention to it, it is all BS, period! I have not even seen the ads for Status Audio (I found them from watching a review from Steve Guttenberg). If you want outlandish claims, read or watch an Audioquest ad or any number of "Audiophile" companies. When I shop for something I only look at hard data. Reviews have their place as long as one understands them and the item being reviewed. Reviews are a bit more useful for things like amps and such, but less so for speakers, headphones and even music because all those are 100% subjective.
I also own the CB-1 version one and find them very listenable. I'd be interested in hearing version two sometime to compare and see if I can hear what this review found so objectionable. A note on the HD6XX's, I have a set of the HD58X's and found that the clamping force is drastically improved by straightening the headband gently for a minute or two. They are very comfortable after that.
@@jeffberg8015 Yes, as I mentioned, I find the CB-1 version one and two rather listenable and non-fatiguing, but again that is all in the ears of the beholder. I like a neutral sound signature and some folks don't. I just can't wear them for long as they are uncomfortable for me, but most headphones are anyway. My Takstar Pro 80s while super fun sonically, are not only uncomfortable to wear, but can be fatiguing. My Sennheiser HD518s I find fatiguing for the opposite direction, total lack of treble and detail and the bass is muddy. I hate muddy bass.
The difference between the two versions of the CB-1s I found was that first, the ear cups are very different and that can change the sound dramatically. The cups on the version one are twice as big as version two. They also tweaked the drivers or (crossover if you will) ever so slightly. I do notice a bump up in treble and bass, but not enough to be fatiguing to my ears, it is relatively subtle, but I noticed partly because of trained ears but also I am used to version one. Between them I prefer version one, but don't find version two so objectionable.
I tried gently straightening the HD6XX headband and no difference. Have to be careful as Sennheiser headbands are pretty fragile in my opinion. Like I said though my HD6XX are not broken in fully and I have not installed the nuggets yet. I may wait on that to see if it loosens naturally over time. (Might be a long time as I don't listen with headphones much).
Many "knock off" headphones are from the very factories that make the brand names. They just remove the branding and ship them out the back door. For instance, if you did not know you could make the error of thinking that my Takstar Pro 80s are Beyerdynamics in build and sound. That is how it goes more often the people think. In fact, for a while, a few years back, there was warnings on Amazon and other places about fake Sennhieser HD598s that were done well enough to fool a lot of folks because they were from the same factory.
That's kind of how Massdrop does it, only in their case it is wholly legit, they get direct permission and only a slight change to the model number is done by the maker (I guess for legal reasons), but it is the exact same. In other words The Sennheiser HD6xx is in fact, the HD650, the HD58X is the HD589 and so on.
Monoprice is the manufacture of Monster cable back in the day. Now days they have made a name for themselves and their stuff is not half bad at all! (Except the premium RCA interconnects where the terminators are concerned).
i actually think the status audio are the flattest of the bunch when it comes to the bass area between 20db and 500db and right there on 500db there is a slightly bump going down a -1 or -2db and another bump going up +5db between 2.5k and 5k but other then that they are great for mixing and mastering which is how i use them, im a mobile beat maker i used my iphone as my my complete audio work station !!
@@SLPGroundSoundMusic That is why I use my Status Audio cans for my work. Not that record restoration requires flat monitors, but it is what I am used to and prefer. However, where they really shine and any flat monitor cans or otherwise shine is in mastering or post remixing, etc.
Thank you
I own the HD 280's and the Audio Tech 50's . I think it's time to try some AKG's. I thought the Sivga sv021's looked interesting as well.
This was a great review, cause I'm looking to expand my headphone world.
Sivga are really good. very boosted in the bass and the treble though. I don't mind it because it's done in a way that doesn't cover up midrange clarity
Have you tried the Philips SHP9500? I know there are a lot of other reviews out there but you being the CheapAudioMan, It will be really interesting to hear your thoughts about it!
Hey Randy, I really like your reviews man great content. Unfortunatly in Europe where I live half the speaker in your videos aren´t available. So I wanted to ask you if you know the Brand Heco. I read they are available in the US. I mean not that I want you to buy one to test it out just for me but I would really appreciate it if in some video in the future this brand gets covered.
I have heard of them. I’ll see if I can get a pair
Can you maybe keep the title on the screen during the duration of each headphone review? It's really hard to keep track of the one you are currently talking about.
Awesome. 😐 I don't have the money for expensive headphones right now and asked for a set of Oneodio bluetooth headphones for x-mas. Hopefully I don't hate their sound signature as much as you.
My favorite headphone is pioneer se a 1000 all day mybe my Bose ae2 or hd280 pro MK2 . All other vmoda lp and Bluedio had harsh even listen to Michael Bolton or poilice
I am a pretty solid Sennheiser guy (picky on them though)...casual on headphones but never liked the 280's. I have HD439's I picked up on a budget I like okay but for a little more money you can pick up some of the Drop (559. 599 or 58X Jubilees) that are solid. Honestly though you have to listen for yourself on your source if you can and like it. Everyone hears it a little different and prefers something different.
The Status Audio CB-1 is a sad story of silent revisions. The first generation of CB-1's came with large, angled hybrid pads, a different driver, a different dispersion plate, and damping materials for the cup and driver. They were great, for the price. Then everyone started posting reviews, and they started selling out regularly. The first revision they changed to really small pads, and people started complaining, so they made the pads a little thicker, but kept that ridiculous inner shape that makes them guaranteed mud slingers. Then the driver and dispersion plate changed to whatever they're using now, so they're mud slinging treble cannons. It just makes me wonder what happened to the original version, and why did they change a good thing? All the expensive videos in the world won't matter, if your product gets worse.
Just like what happened to the QKZ VK4, those IEMs were hot stuff a while ago, even crinacle praised them, they were the best audio gear under 30 dolars (heck, id go up to 50) but when they gained traction, they got a nasty revision, they changed the drivers, the shells, and even the cables, the resulting tuning was the typical 5 usd Chi-fi IEM, an inofensive, unbalanced tuning.
Shortly after that mess, they discontinued them.
Hey big guy! Thanks again for the awesome content! I just got a Moukey small amount for headphones and some smaller monitor/desktop/bookshelves. Not sure if you have reviewed these at all as I have to go back and look through the vids.
If you haven’t revised any products from this company I was wondering if you could do a review. They are class D and about $67 at the time of this.
I’m gonna do a rundown on quite a few of my favorite bookies and smaller monitors along with some of my headphones 🎧 and see how it does.
Anyone else try Moukey?
Koss Kph 40 when in stock at 40
Kph30i at 25 like others have said
Maybe Phillip 9600 also
What did you say the audio source was? And the system you listened on? Oh, that’s right, you didn’t say. I just spent a couple of hours listening to Dr. Chesky’s SFaSABSS, Steely Dan’s Aja and Rodrigo y Gabriela’s self titled album on my iPad through my AKG, Grado, and my Status headphones and enjoyed it completely. Thanks for reminding me that audio gear sound is mostly subjective - except for build quality and driver specs, frequency response, etc. And that the enjoyment is somewhat dependent on the production quality of the source material and other factors beyond my control. My impression of Status is that they are trying to offer competitively priced headphones that sound great. BTW, their UA-cam ad is hilarious and only disses Apple headphones - I think Apple can take it - . It’s not a big budget ad, but it’s well done and did I mention, very, very funny. I bought my first Status < $100 headphones on recommendation by the Audiophiliac. I might try the OneOdio Monitor 60s at some point.
Nice video on the budget headphone world. I have a set of Bowers & Wilkens P5's on-ear (just under $200 CDN) which sound decent but i am sure there are affordable better (especially going to over ear open back?). My question is regarding you stated during review that you equalized and adjusted certain frequency ranges. What device (or software) did you use? I am in the market for an EQ and would love to hear your input on them....maybe a video review someday? Cheers and Marry Christmas to you and your family.
What's your opinion or comparison between the k361 and the Phillips 9500 . I know they're different headphones but about the same price I believe . Thank you
Philips Fidelio X2HR is made like a tank. It's all aluminium and leather and costs 95euro on the European Amazon. Just remember it's openback so people can hear what you are listen to.
I'm quite partial to pre Samsung true 80s-90s AKG full can studio phones and classroom (often mono) phones W/ 4+ port hub.
Any affordable recommendations I should bookmark on eBay or Gumtree when the price is right?
They are comfortable to bearable yet sound so warm and vibrant.
If not maybe Panasonic Technics from same era.
What no Grado SR60 ?
Blasphemy
The one Odio monitor 80 open back pro
For once I actually have my coffee while watching one of your videos. Noice
I have oneodio pro m or something like that i think. Bought them as a temporary headphones for my pc for playing games. Expected a year from them at most because im prone to breaking headphones. It's been three years now. The hinges look super fragile but i didn't manage to break them,the foam on the cups is still ok,they sound the same so the drivers didn't crap out. They are light and feel cheap but are actually quite durable. I think i payed 30€ for them. I never had better headphones in my life when i look at price/value i got from these. I have better sounding headphones,the jbl live 500 i have sound 5x better but looking at the bang for the buck i never had anything comparable to oneodio.
Try ROCCAT Elo X close audiophile on budget can handle amps
Currently enjoying the AKG K92 (a bargain at £37), wonder if the K361 is worth getting.
I really enjoy them. My daughter has kind of used them as her daily driver for a while. She really enjoys them
OneOdio is super underrated among the audiophile community, my Mom has a OneOdio Bluetooth headphone and whilst my M50X is better in every way the OneOdio comes close enough.
Edit: I see what you mean about the Oneodios, they do distort at higher volumes and are muddy but they feel like a baby M50X to me. I used to say 70% of M50X but maybe moreso 60%. I consider them a good headphone when compared to most other stuff
Any way to get a decent cable with a mic for the k361?? I'm new to headphones and the ones I've come across were like $40-80 or something and doesn't look ideal. Why is it such an oddity for them to come with a mic cable once in a while?
@5:18 you see chintzy leather bag, I see the beginnings of a gimp suit
M40x's with upgraded pads. Just over $100.
What do you recommend for under $70.00 I like loud bass n clean Highs?????
How about the Sony MDR-V6, MDR-7506 or Technics EAH-DJ1200?
not 100% sure if those are the same ones i had like a year and 1/2 ago but I like my audio and oh boy were the one pair of $35+ OneOdios bad ... like a reverse V or something ... maybe even something else. And to be clear that i am not super snobby ... look up wired Sonys ... those ones in the say $9.99 to $20 range ... i have a few and with the right V EQ set they sound ... ok to fairly good. Those OneOdios I have seen compared to Samson SR850's (which while they may not have deep bass all the time ... that soundstage i LOVE) .... the OneOdios I had sounded horrible... it was an insult in my view to compare them to those Samsons really
if i remember (I returned them) I remember heavy MUDDY bass, but that alone ruins the mids and the highs .... and remember ... I use say a $15 Sonys (with EQ'ing with say a V signature) for music at times and like them ... though my last pair i had to EQ the mids different than prior pair.
The first pair he reviewed the sound for sounds (no pun) what i remember about the oneodios i had.
my only issue with the headphones I see compared to my OneOdios ... the Samson SR850's at below $40 by the way. ... is on some tracks and genres that do well with heavy bass (say rap) does not have deep bass ... the bass IS THERE but with too much bass (I tried) ... the mids and treble starts to not sound as good. Basically with some genres like that i'd just use different headphones if i wanted that deep bass
I still say i love the Samson SR850's
As for the Sith Audio Pliers, I was made to understand that here would be no math
Used headphones are also a decent option, beyerdynamic stuff is usually dirt cheap used, and it's Beyerdynamic, so can't really tell they're used, my custom one pro was 50$ used and had like 5 years one them, still looked and functioned like new, same goes for the Sennheiser hd25 (the Nokia 3310 of headphones)
Never had a bad experience buying used to be honest.
You want to buy a pair of a focal elegia. Like new! Only one left!
@@cheapaudioman I'm in Denmark, so shipping would be a bitch and a half, but thanks for the offer!
@@cheapaudioman also. I'm buying a used set of dt1770 nexth month, assuming the guy doesn't sell them before my next payday lol.
Hey Randy. What do you think about the Yamaha MT5? It's also in this price range and I'm curious what you think of it compared to something like the AKG.
My vote goes to the Koss KPH30i. Under $30.00. Comfy. But then I haven't heard all the phancy stuff.
Is it possible that you getting the boosts at 300 Hz and 2000 Hz was a result of plugging low impedance headphones into a high impedance amp? there's a Julian Krause video demonstrating this
Shhhh, Randy! Don't tell them about the headphone Illuminati
Hey Randy the cables removable on any of these? Or are they all fixed? Thanks! 👍
Removable on all of them except for the Sennheiser HD280 Pro, G
@@cheapaudioman Thank You!!!
There are some broad strokes that are true. You can’t get away from production/manufacturing cost to profit ratios. The more they spend money on packaging, hype and gimmicks, the less they spend on the actual product. I’m a bit spoiled from my, now ancient, Sennheiser HD650s. I recently picked up a pair of AKG K92 and they are awful in comparison. Very comfortable but ugh, way too much bass, boomy, muffled mid highs to all h3ll and exaggerated top end. Great for checking what a mix sounds like on “popular” headphones but that’s about it, at least for me.
i just grabbed a cup of really great coffee
The Status CB you tested is not what they are talking about in the commercials...their Core, and Flagship models are what they are promoting....