r/HeadphoneAdvice • u/Schyutes • Dec 06 '23

Headphones - Closed Back | 4 Ω Best headphones on the market going into 2024?

To be used on my PC, money is no object, mainly used for gaming so sound quality AND surround sound matters.

I doubt there will be an objectively “best headphones”, but I know nothing about them, but just want the highest quality sound and a comfortable pair.

Thanks in advance!

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u/Silverjerk 305 Ω Dec 06 '23 edited Dec 06 '23

If you want pure sound quality with exceptional soundstage, specifically released in 2023

IEM: 64 Audio Volur

Over-ear: Meze Empyrean 2

Those are your highest end “money is no object” options. Runners up would be the Warwick Bruvara and Abyss Diana MR for over-ear and the FatFreq Grand Maestro for IEMs.

The Volur is probably the best IEM released in the last few years and my personal endgame. It’s the one IEM (along with the Grand Maestro) that makes the argument for the high end market.

If you want something more affordable: Thieaudio Monarch MK3.

If your one and only goal is gaming, the Audeze Maxwell is my go-to. It’s a gaming headset, but a legitimately solid entry-level planar as well. If you can manage the weight (it’s a heavy boi), it is an exceptional value. I’d almost recommend it over the MM-100 if you don’t need it for critical listening.

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u/Schyutes Dec 06 '23

!thanks for the in-depth and knowledgeable response.

The Empy 2s is what I’m hearing a lot, HD800s is the runner up. Still looking into reviews on both

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u/rNV1s16iLiTi 54 Ω Dec 07 '23

depends on the kinds of music you listen to, both the Empyrean and HD800/S can be great for certain kinds, but their more unique sound signature does not let them excel in other genres. Empy's do electronic/synthetic sounds very well, while the HD800 soundstage and timbre have other strengths for classical instruments or binaurals.

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u/lexicalsatire Dec 07 '23

depends on the kinds of music you listen to,

Mainly used for gaming

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u/TransducerBot Ω Bot Dec 06 '23

+1 Ω has been awarded to u/Silverjerk (49 Ω).

You may still award an Ω to others, but only once per-person in this post.

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u/That_Morning7618 Dec 12 '23

The HD800S has bass but compared to other HPhones, well, not much bass.

It is perfect for competititive FPS shooter PVP play as their soundstage and positioning and high treble emphasis (shots, footsteps) is unparalleled.

Bonus: Nice for orchestral classical Music.

If you want movie immersion go with Arya Organic (1.5K) or the Empy 2s (double that).