"Monitors" - this sweet word not too long ago brought on music lovers an abiding sadness, as it was impossible to buy good headphones, you could only "get" them. Today, few can be surprised by the possession of great headphones - there are a lot of different products in stores, the more we need to understand what these "monitor headphones" are, before we give them "hard-earned money".
In fact, the "monitors" are divided into two unequal parts: studio and other. The former are used by sound engineers, musicians and other sound professionals and are usually expensive, closed models with high impedance. The latter are intended for the average consumer and the purpose of listening to music at home.
They too are divided into two categories: budget and "premium". As it follows: the "premium" monitor headphones are high-end products of famous companies, characterized by their superior design and use of quality expensive materials in their manufacture. Budget products and look simpler, and may not be from such well-known brands.
Here we should decide: What do you need? Arrogance and conceit from owning a popular brand or headphones that honestly perform their functions in terms of natural sound, but not so expensive.
No one will argue that premium products are superior to their budget counterparts in terms of accuracy of sound reproduction. Expensive full-size headphones, giving out the smallest details of the sound recording, bring minimal distortion to the sound engineer's idea, but does the music to be listened through them meet these requirements?
Most of the tracks of modern popular music are recorded with not very high quality and high-end expensive "monitors" will immediately detect this. So is it worth spending exorbitant money on a product that is suitable only for listening to classical music.
As proof of this "redoubtable" for sellers of high-end audio equipment thought, consider several models of inexpensive full-size monitor headphones, which enjoy deserved popularity among buyers.
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The best full-size monitor headphones
Sony MDR-ZX310
Folding headphones from a well-known company have powerful bass, as do most products in the MDR line. Elements of minimalism give a beautiful and interesting look to this model. Reliable design, comfortable use, excellent sound - all this is offered at a very reasonable price. In addition, the model is equipped with a remote control, so it can be used as a headset.
The widest range: from 10 to 24 thousand Hertz, a small weight of 125 grams, two-way cable connection, gold-plated plugs and L-shaped connector, different colors and clear sound - all this is Sony MDR-ZX310.
Advantages:
- Small size when folded;
- Excellent sound insulation;
- Punchy bass and clear sound;
- Original design, looking significantly more expensive than its cost.
Disadvantages:
- The headband is not provided with a gasket. With sudden movements of the head the headphones can fall down.
Sennheiser HD 180
Brand from Germany Sennheiser is famous for producing a variety of different, but always quality headphones. They are the standard of quality, yet affordable and very reliable. Sennheiser HD 180 is designed for home use. This is evidenced by the long cable (3 meters) and the complete set with an adapter to the 6.3 mm jack.
If you are tired of the regular headphones from the phone, you can safely recommend the purchase of Sennheiser HD 180. They are perfect for watching TV and playing games on your home computer. Full-size headphones from a well-known brand with good sound for reasonable money - this is Sennheiser HD 180.
Advantages:
- Operating comfort. The model fits comfortably on the head;
- Noise isolation. The owner does not disturb others while playing computer or listening to loud music;
- Decent sound. You don't have any glaring failures. There is both "top" and "bass". The middle section of the frequency response is well audible;
- Appearance. The model does not look like a Chinese "mass-produced goods". A stylish design with the logo of the famous company;
- Reliability. The simple design increases durability in use.
Disadvantages:
- Too long and thin cable. Weak attachment to the cups, prone to tangling;
- Quality of materials used. Fast wear and tear of the headband and loss of appearance due to paint abrasion;
- Poor ergonomics. When used in a portable version, the headphones are uncomfortable to wear on the neck - the headband interferes.
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Sennheiser HD 201
Another worthy representative of the famous company. This model is one of the most popular among the budget full-size headphones. Sennheiser HD 201 is distinguished by a unique combination of high quality and low price. The sound is excellent for its price category in an attractive case of unusual design, made of reliable materials (up to two years of service life).
Comfortable fit - the headphones do not press on your head, even after long periods of use. And all this for about 30 North American dollars. A wide range: from 21 to 18 thousand hertz, high sensitivity of 108 decibels, the small weight of 165 grams - all this guarantees a quality product from the German manufacturer at an affordable price.
Advantages:
- Design. Stylish appearance - a distinctive feature of this model;
- Reliability. The plastic used in the manufacture is strong and makes the body durable;
- Comfort. Big and movable ear cushions completely cover your ears. Soft headband also adds to the pleasure of use;
- Great sound. Great bass, no "squeaky" highs and clear midrange.
Disadvantages:
- A strong signal source is needed. If you listen to this model through the phone, you get a rather quiet sound;
- Some users note a slight bassiness HD 201.
Sony MDR-XB450AP
The MDR-XB450AP from the reputable Sony stands out with its recognizable MDR line design, comfortable wearing comfort and excellent sound with a bias towards powerful bass. The remote control, low weight (165 grams) and rotating ear cushions add to the comfort of use. The aluminum construction makes the monitors lightweight, protecting them from damage from the inevitable falls.
Advantages:
- Great sound. All important frequencies are well balanced, but there is a clear bias towards the bass fans;
- Noise isolation. The original design of the headphones provides a leading position MDR-XB450AP in this regard among its analogues;
- Use of Aluminum. The lightest metal in the design ensures that the reliability of this model is very high. They are not killable. The use of metal also benefits the design of the model;
- Full-featured remote control, equipped with an excellent microphone and able to switch tracks;
- Low price. So many advantages should cost more.
Disadvantages:
- Wire length. In some cases, such as when used at home, users find it short;
- Usability. Some customers don't like the increased pressure on their ears.
Philips SHP2000.
Philips is known among audiophiles for its budget models. Philips SHP2000 is an excellent choice in terms of quality to price ratio. The model has been produced for over ten years, but it is still not outdated, because to find a better sound and comfort among the "budget" is not easy.
Advantages:
- Sound. Most consumers find the sound for such a low price is very decent;
- Comfort. Lightweight because of the plastic housing, yet fit securely. Ears are less tired because of the fabric ear cushions;
- durability. There are a lot of reviews about the years of service;
- Minimal distortion. High impedance and low sensitivity contribute to this.
Disadvantages:
- Unimpressive design. Against the backdrop of competitors looks like a "gray mouse";
- Narrow specialization. Open design and two-meter cable made for home use;
- Quiet. To work properly you need a powerful sound source. The phone will not "rock them".
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