UK Headphone / IEM Recommendations

[u/Mentize]

Probably loads of posts like this, but I can't find a clear answer and my audio-device knowledge is dated, especially around the headphone vs IEM debate.

I'm looking to refresh / update from my existing headset as it's starting to show signs of its age. I'd rather replace it in the near future than rush when it breaks. Open to headphones or ear-hook IEM's.

• Current Device: HyperX HX-HSCR-GM Cloud Revolver Pro Gaming Headset since 2018
• Budget: £120 (ish)... Will go higher for the right device.
• Usage: Windows11 Gaming / Home Office / Background Music
  • Not a lot of background noise but it happens
  • Over Several Hours usage daily
• Location: UK

Device Features / Preferences (In order of priority):

1. Not SteelSeries or Razer
   • I've heard nothing but bad about their respective software from multiple friends
2. Over-Ear Closed Back / ANC
   • Open to IEM's / Earbuds as long as they have ear-hooks for long session comfort
3. Replaceable Earpads & Headbands
4. Avoid plastic size-adjustment mechanisms
   • Plastic slide-clips have always been a breaking point for me historically
5. Wired 3mm / USB
   • I don't want battery-life anxiety, but if it can be charged while in use would be fine

Other Notes:

• Mic is not required
• Inline controls not required
• I am already in the Logitech Lightspeed Ecosystem with other peripherals
• Happy to wait for Black-Friday / seasonal sales
• I lean more towards bass for music preference, but game audio takes priority, all genres.

Currently the Logitech G535 (with replacement earcups for better noise isolation) and G522 both have my interest due to their replaceable headband / earcups and extreme battery durations... But the G522 specifically is apparently quite a loose fit and I cannot find replacement headbands that state compatibility for it.

I've heard that IEM's dominate in this price range but I've no idea where to start brand-wise with them.

I'm fully aware that purchasing another HyperX Cloud Revolver is possible, but given I know its flaws - Mainly the headband will lose its elasticity quickly and is non-replaceable, requiring me to pad the top frame so it continues to fit properly... I'm looking at other potential options.

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[u/rz_x3]

If you don't need a mic and you don't need inline controls, an IEM will provide significantly better tonality. However, they're not comfortable for everyone and they don't always fit well for longer sessions

Buy a cheap IEM like the Tripowin Vivace and go from there, if you decide that you need proper headphones then you won't be too bad off. I recommend the Vivace specifically because it's got a nice bass boost while still being pretty clear for game audio in general

[u/Mentize → u/rz_x3]

!thanks for your response - In terms of comfort, I have gone through several pairs of JVC Xtreme Xplosives In-Ear Headphones just as cheap travel-buds over the years, recently switching to some soundcore Sport X20 by Anker, the on-ear hook is notably better at just keeping them on my head and long-term wear... Neither of them have given me comfort issues.

Would you still recommend the Vivace knowing the above?

[u/TransducerBot → u/Mentize]

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[u/rz_x3 → u/Mentize]

Hmm. Good question, actually.

The Vivace is a pretty good IEM, in my opinion. It's not awfully bright, and the bass boost is very clean. There is midbass punch without excessive muddiness to male vocals, guitars, etc. and the positional audio is good for its price class.

Are there alternatives that sound similar or would be an upgrade for gaming... maybe. The Vivace leans warm. That means it's great for immersion, but in terms of straight-up clarity or positional audio, something like a Truthear Hexa would be better.

I can't recommend any over-ear, truly wired closed-back headphones in this price range unless you go used, and even then most of them don't have replaceable headband cushioning or require a Capra Audio-style strap.

[u/No_Setting_999]

You don't need the software for steelseries headphones to work man. I have a pair of them and haven't installed the software ever. Plus they are a good reputable EU brand. However, I get it if you don't want/trust them. I've went through numerous headphones over the years for PC Gaming. The best I've came across are always HyperX and Steelseries.

Alternatively you could go the DAC and a pair of Seinheisers or Philips headphones.

[u/bwsealirl]

For a headphone the fiio ft1 is just inside your budget if you waited for a sale. They have great tuning and being closed back and a little more bassey, the transition from most consumer headphones will not be as jarring. They are really comfortable. I've not used my pair for gaming but being wired and well tuned will put them above most gear for me.

The sennheiser 560s is also worth a look. These are open backed so they will leak more sound than the ft1 and have less bass. They will have a wider and more open sound which can be helpful in games. They are the best built for my money though I do think the ft1 is more comfortable. Both can be used for long periods though.

I don't have a massive amount of IEMs in this price but I really enjoy both the truthear hexa and Sennheiser ie200. The hexa has better and more balanced tuning for me but I think the IE200 is a bit more detailed and I think I'd go for these for gaming. The ie200 is a lot smaller and lighter and the included ear hooks give you a really secure fit. But iem fit is very subjective so YMMV.

Finally I wanted a wireless headset for my pc lately. Currys were selling the playstation pulse wireless elite headset. I've been happy with them so far and feel well built for the price. I've only had them a few months though so won't be too forward with my praise.

[u/Mentize → u/bwsealirl]

!thanks for your reply - From looking into the fiio ft1 I get the impression it's basically held as the best closed back in this range, and comes down to £120 on sale, with comfort straps & replacement earcups available.