Are they really that good? - the most popular gaming headphones tested

[@quincyfreeman2901]

Not gonna lie, I’m glad to see some “mainstream” support for the 6X0 line for gaming. I’ve been getting loads of flack over the years for claiming that despite the 3-blob style soundstage, it really is a competent gaming headphone due to its tonality, comfort, layering/image distinction, and detail/resolution. I’ve used loads of different headphones for gaming, and the HD600 actually became one of my very favorite, adding to the reasons to keep on around in my small headphone collection. Cheers!

[@jaimefernandes6811]

I have both a sundara and 6xx, and the benefit of the 6xx I hear is that with how small the scale of sounds are, it is very easy to gauge distance and placement over the sundara, where everything sounds larger and more full and can easily fill your entire side channel with a single sound. Also the inherent crossover on the 6xx is almost nonexistent, where the sundara is quite strong, which is why it sounds more natural in its raw sound presentation on music, but can easily muddle your image placement with sounds crossing over into the opposing channel for games. I too thought the 6xx would be bad for games but I am pleasantly surprised with how wrong that misconception is.

[@minidee2194]

People who said the hd6x0 line have 3-blob imaging either don't know what they are talking about or don't even own one of them and parrot off the elites. There's no "3-blob" imaging, there's no "5-blob" imaging, there's no encompassing imaging, and the r70x is definitely not as good as the hd600 cope harder reddit.

[@Tripokaridos22]

660s and s2 imaging is way better than 600 and 650 , that i also love ... but for imaging 660s and S2 .

[@smoloms]

it also definitely helps if you keep using the same headphones as opposed to switching a lot. you get more used to the sound stage a specific headphone has and what it means for the positioning of enemies. I found that switching from 6XX to 7506 to Aria to T1 on different sessions, i’d get confused sometimes because things sound different panning left to right and placement of sounds are different. so just stick to one

[@AlumarsX]

T1.2s are the shit for gaming, especially when you can score them for $300.

[@antiqq_]

@@AlumarsX how good are they for gaming? been hunting for a t1 for gaming & music.

[@AlumarsX]

@@antiqq_ Their soundstage is about a perfect circle probably slightly farther than your face is, and everything just surrounds you. The only thing my wife didn't enjoy was they don't have much bass stock, but if you can EQ an extra 2db at 2khz and 5db bass shelf at 100hz these have some slam. Don't push the bass shelf too hard though, the drivers don't love eq that much.

[@antiqq_]

@@AlumarsX alrighty then. quite hard to find someone with a t1 that games so ty lol. i've listened to the t1.3 and even with their mid bass heavy tonality, their imaging was really damn good. better than the dt 1990's by quite a bit imo. i think i should just get the t1.3 and eq/remove the foam. also how is the instrument separation/distinction of layers in the t1? I find that even with the DT 1990s, after EQing the highs out the layering of sounds isn't as good. it is easier to distinguish layers with the DT 770s after EQ. also how is the back imaging? the drivers are towards the front of the ear pointing back, so is the back imaging good?

[@AlumarsX]

​@@antiqq_ I have the DT770s and honestly do use them more than the T1.2 for gaming simply because they're closed, but I hate them lol. I have too much noise in the living room to use opens. Ear placement is definitely important, your ears have to be all the way forward to get the most detail, it's like falling off the V sweetspot on a speaker. Doesnt affect soundstage much imo I haven't gamed with an EQ on the T1s either, so I haven't listened to them at their best in that scenario, but I really do think they're the best imaging headphones I've tried yet. (HD600, 6XX, HE500, HE5se, K702, DT880, 770, Aeon Noire, ZMF Classic)

[@EpisodicGamer]

The DT 900 Pro X and HD560s are both pretty legendary for gaming, if all the reviews and testimonials are of any indication.

[@Rod95ok]

The DT 1990 is always slept on in regards to gaming. While I appreciate the 800S soundstage in music, it can often come off as a little unnaturally wide in gaming, as opposed to the 1990s moderate stage. It also extends well into the sub-bass region which for me adds to the immersion, and has top class imaging. It can be a bit bright for some but the DIYAudioHeaven paper towel mod takes care of that nicely and is very easy and non-destructive to do. It does lag behind the 800S in image separation, but all things considered the 1990 is my go to recommendation and personal pick. Not to mention it usually retails for not even a third of an 800S.

[@jamesrsk]

I agree, I use the DT 1990s for gaming and they are amazing

[@soraflame66]

Exactly I agree!! Ive tested all these plus more dt1990 easily beats everyrhing except the hd800s but its close in terms of the gaming performance only. The dt1990 are like a mini hd800s for gaming and definitely a close number 2 in the world

[@barlevi5683]

i have both,i do prefer the hd800s because of the stage but the bass of the dt1990 is great for single player games and the imaging is one of the best.

[@budstopseasyroadspence]

What about the 490s?

[@Rod95ok]

@@budstopseasyroadspence These have only been out for a few months, I haven't had a chance to try them.

[@En_Joshi-Godrez]

Could you test some of the more wacky headphones for gaming like the raals or e-stats, as well as just absurdly expensive stuff like the susvara? The dichotomy between music performance and gaming performance needs more metrics, even those that are impractal (because it would be entertaining).

[@1FlynnGaming]

From my experience Estats are the best ive tried for gaming. Have the Sundara, and in R6 Siege its hard to tell where front or back is while with some DIYd Estats I can tell you exactly the distance and direction of each sound

[@En_Joshi-Godrez]

@@1FlynnGaming what do you mean by DIY? You made them?

[@ResolveReviews]

Maybe we can include those in the next community poll.

[@1FlynnGaming]

@@En_Joshi-Godrez Yep. Its not too difficult. Theres a long thread on Head-Fi where a user describes how to.

[@En_Joshi-Godrez]

@@1FlynnGaming very impressive. I know someone made a entire business out of e-stats all on there own called nectar.

[@gabsriel]

HE400i with removed grills, thicker faux leather hybrids to add more bass and tame the treble, and a neodymium on each side on the rear part of the magnet to add mass. And it's a charm to game with at a fairly low price.

[@impuls60]

I have a pair and they suck in FPS shooters. Too much bass and imaging is poor.

[@gabsriel]

@@impuls60 Thanks, important to know. I do not play at FPS shooters or competitive gaming in general. So I do not know for that purpose. But for "casually" playing games (RPGs, Racing, Rogue like, Metroidvania etc.), and modded, they are very nice to my ears. Clearly nice enough. Better than the DT990 and more spacious sounding than my closed backs (which have more precise imaging).

[@JeSuisBacon]

I've been using AudioTechnica R70x for gaming for years, and still one of my favourites.

[@andikawidianto9060]

is it loud enough if I jack it straight to Xbox controller? cuz i heard r70x need amp to shine

[@harrysotter]

@@andikawidianto9060I’m wondering the same thing

[@soraflame66]

I've tested all these plus more number 1. Would obviously be the hd800s! 2. Dt1990 pro. These are insane for gaming and a very close second to hd800s in terms of gaming performance def number 2 in the world. 3. This is a hard one, for the price/performance definitely the hd560s they are only 150$ and just destroy most things for gaming but the number 3 in the world could also be like a Akg k712 pro or some high end planar or something else. Its a very competitive spot. Hope that helps and if anyone has questions plz feel free to comment :)

[@MykeBinaryMan]

I also use the DT1990 pro for competitive shooters

[@nhbjhbbhbhgvb]

Do you think the hd800 is better than any iem or is there like an expensive iem out there that could beat it? Something like the annihilator maybe

[@soraflame66]

@nhbjhbbhbhgvb probably not, I mean maybe something that comes close to it though a specific TOTL iem but usually not

[@budstopseasyroadspence]

The general consensus is that the 800s are the best. So the question is, what's the next best? From my research, the 490s are second best, beating out the 560s, which apparently beat out everything else including PC38x, h6pro, etc. Have you tried the 490s?

[@danieleturrin5625]

You'll never understand how good is the Koss ESP/95X at gaming until you try them personally. Crazy good imaging and super detailed.

[@PastafarianLemur]

In prior comments the Audio Technica ATH-R70X was brought up as a good gaming headphone (which I also own and definitely agree with). One headphone that still appears to be slept on is the AKG K702 which is light and comfortable (at least IMO) with an overall neutral tonality and the imaging and soundstage are quite good. At the very least some people did mention its siblings.

[@TreSwayy]

the r70x simply doesn't impress me at all. I have no idea why people like them so much.

Those were my daily drivers for almost a decade and I was at one point in the top 1% of Destiny 1 players in both PvP and PvE and I can tell you this; I have a pair of planar IEM's and they pale in comparion, despite the bigger price tag. I'm actually getting a pair of K712's and doing the balanced mod to paid them with my Fiio K7.

[@jeffcarrozzi5918]

I feel like you missed one of the biggest competitors, the hd560s.

[@soraflame66]

They would beat out all these except the hd800s they are extremely good for gaming. Id say #1: HD800S 2. DT 1990 Pro 3. hd560s

[@AusOpening]

wheres it comes to all-around music & gaming its very hard to beat the hd 560s

[@sergz8241]

indeed 800s > 560s > anything else XD

[@TL-in1lm]

The 650s are the closest thing you're gonna get to a pair of 800s

[@AusOpening]

@@TL-in1lm sonically they sound quite different, one is warmer the other is analytical - and that's not mentioning the soundstage

[@uul4289]

great review ! now I want to hear how these compare for competetive fps gaming: Sennheiser HD 560S, Audio Technica ATH-R70X, Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X, Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro, Beyerdynamic TYGR 300 R. and these headphones when they release: fiio ft3 and audeze mm-100. I have used the sundara for competetive fps gaming for 3 years and they work fine but I hear a lot of people dont recommend them for fps so I considering selling them and buy a new pair.

[@CletusDB]

HD 560S and ATH-R70X for sure

[@soraflame66]

I can answer part of that question for you! Comparing thr dt1990 to everything in this video its a mini hd800s in terms of gaming performance only. its insane and holds the number 2 spot under hd800s, the imaging and tonality and detail make them monsters for gaming especially shooters. Then number 3 would be the hd560s for 150$ they are mind boggingly good for gaming and beat out the hd600, the dt990, the pc38x, the audio technica, and the Tygr 300 plus several others. Next id put the Tygr 300r those are also exceptional for gaming and beat out the dt990 and hd600.

[@soraflame66]

I cant really answer for the rest but the audio technica open back series like the ad700x 900 1000 2000 rtc are all very good for gaming. Also id reccomend the AKG k712 pro they are fantastic for gaming as well especially for these shooters.

[@uul4289]

adding 1 more headphones to the list I would like a review of, the sony mdr-mv1

[@ZenithWest169]

What DAC/AMP are you using? In particularly are you using Windows Sonic or Dolby Atmos? You keep comparing the imaging, but like are you on straight up stereo (in which how are you having good imaging)? Dolby Atmos seems to provide the most realistic (more precise) imaging experience, but can make distant sounds extremely quiet to where you can miss them. Windows Sonic isn't as precise and doesn't provide no where near as good depth (which might in some cases not be a bad thing, like if you were playing S&D and wanted to hear someone as soon as possible Dolby might delay you hearing it as the sound begins off extremely quiet).

[@stephen_hynes]

Such a nicely presented review! My own experience with designing headphones (as a layman hobbyist) is that the pads are a big variable in performance. A ring of heavy felt inserted into an over ear pad can change overall sound quite dramatically, taming treble harshness and refining spatial presentation in some designs. Less than a dollar spent at any arts and crafts store for a totally reversible mod that takes a few minutes to do. Adding a 1/8" connector to Beyer Dynamic phones is also an easy process, then you can choose any cable you like.

[@10AndreG]

The sennheiser hd 560s are also great for gaming, i actually have the HD 600 for music and the 560s for gaming

[@codysantmyer5781]

Yea surprised he didn’t include the 560s, one of the most recommended headphones for gaming

[@quincyfreeman2901]

Also surprised this wasn’t included🤷🏼‍♂️

[@Jamie-666]

DMS is a fan of the 560

[@soraflame66]

Yup hd560s are insane for gaming and right behind hd800s and DT1990 Pro. Its crazy how good they are they deserve more recognition!!

[@TweakOF]

Would you say it’s worth getting the 560 or the 600 if I’m planning on using it for both music and gaming?

[@MykeBinaryMan]

My main headphone for gaming is the DT1990 pro. This has been for Pubg, Apex and Fortnite. This is mostly due to the the details and stage so I can tell shots from distance. I also have used the 6XX which I found better for Overwatch and Valorant think that's because they are smaller maps.

[@MarkvanVaals]

The Beyerdynamic DT880 is a lot better for gaming than the DT990, after a few years I upgraded to the DT1990. I quite enjoy rock and metal on both of those as well besides using them for gaming. Edit: to give some context I also own the HD6XX, Sundara and ATH-AD700x. The Audio Technica AD700x is also very good for gaming IMHO, it's very comfortable with thicker replacement pads from eBay.

[@YummehPyroFlakes]

Is the DT880 superior when tracking sounds and trying to guess the range of it?

[@Britalex]

i have had my DT880s and they#re looking a little tired so I am thinking of changing them but thoroughly stuck. HD600 perhaps? What are your thoughts? (gaming, simming and music mainly).

[@Jonymankitty]

​@YummehPornFlakes I have the DT 880 (250ohm) and they're remarkable. It's so easy to hear where people are and where they're coming from. Apex, call of duty, remnant II, Chivalry 2, ect. Paired with a small amp and the semi-open design on it really makes sounds pop. I use them turned up loud and never had problems with piercing sounds or nothing

[@bash3245]

Chrono is killing these comparison, keep up the good work but wish Maxwell was in the mix as well ;)

[@kai0zen-669]

My headphone rotation for gaming: hd 800s, hd 700, and Neumann ndh30s love them all equally for music and games :)

[@rukkit8705]

Would you say the HD700 are close to HD800S in terms of gaming use?

[@kai0zen-669]

@@rukkit8705 mostly yes because they both have a very natural spaciousness to them. They are honestly both great and the 700s really surprised me outside of gaming as well, if you are on the fence because of polarizing reviews I would advise you listen to your gut and get one if possible they are such over hated headphones :)

[@BuzzKora]

i use a dt990 pro limited black edition at 80ohms. i already enjoyed them for gaming but always found them a bit too intense bcs of the vshape response curve. i bought some thick ass dekoni pads and i must say the soundstage is magnificent, widest soundstage ive heard, its so nice. im using a hd660s now and just slowly inserting it for gaming to see how they compare.

[@wackojc706]

@BuzzKora how did the hd 660s perform on gaming?

[@BuzzKora]

@@wackojc706 gonna be honest they are pretty good ahah. I would say 990 is more precise but with the thicker pads i got it feels a bit unnatural, 660 with default pads are less intense but basically just as accurate

[@wackojc706]

@BuzzKora Niceeee I'm planning on getting the 660s hoping it would deliver well on gaming and music. Do you have anything extra that you're using to pair with the headphones?

[@BuzzKora]

@@wackojc706 using dx5 atm, honestly hd660s dont need much power, my dt990 use more and its on low gain on the dac for both. A decent dac/amp will always help but you can start with the headphones and upgrade later

[@onliketron7107]

just came across this video and love how objective your opinions are on the different headphones without just simping hardcore over any particular one. that being said im on a bit of a budget at the moment and will be making the transition from some a50's to the dt 990 pros and seeing if im going to like it or not. here goes nothing.

[@neudels4896]

Don't you use the hd560s for gaming?

[@bla_ank]

You should try out the 900 Pro X, I found the imaging to be slightly sharper than the older Beyer drivers. Very impressive for games like Valorant. It's more expensive, but you can make a value argument when you factor in amplification, as the 900 Pro X is extremely efficient. If one was going to go with an older Beyer, the 880 Pro is a far better option than the 990, imo. The bass is less obtrusive, the highs are more even, and it still has that solid Beyer imaging I found the HD560s to be a great pairing with chaotic games like Overwatch. The angled drivers + clean tuning give it better sound separation than a 600 series headphone, but the imaging (while great) is not as precise as the 900 Pro X. When I owned both the HD560s and the 6xx, I basically always reached for the 560s for gaming (and music, tbh) And I have never found a Planar that works for gaming. My perception of sound depth is always screwed up, for some reason Overall, your perceptions seemed to line up with mine. Imaging is supreme for tactical shooters, sound separation becomes more important for chaotic games, and single player games benefit more from qualities like soundstage and bass presence

[@maltakar9879]

This might be a shot in the dark since this comment is pretty old… Which DT 990 Pro would you recommend between the 250 and 80 ohms? I heard the 80 ohm verison is less bright than the 250’ ohm.

[@bla_ank]

@@maltakar9879 I don't have any firsthand experience with those models/variants. I would probably get whichever version your source equipment can handle. That said, I've heard a similar sentiment regarding the 770

[@jefhelmes]

I repeat the calls to follow up with HD560S & R70x (my personal choice for FPS gaming). I've used DT990, Sundara, & HD6XX... Completely agree with your assessments. Heard the HD800S' soundstage can actually be too big, making distances of footsteps harder to determine... Plus I've drawn a hard endgame line at Focal Clear at its clearance price! Also would be curious to hear your take on the Clear for gaming...

[@haoyuwang5995]

is hd 6xx great for gaming I heard some ppl said the soundstage is not that kinda good

[@snakev7140]

Sennheiser in general is mostly for music and not gaming, you're better off using the DT 990 pro or the AKG k702 which are very good.@@haoyuwang5995

[@medivhh]

Hey this was great, you should keep this as an ongoing series where you take a bunch of headphones into shooters and talk about them.

[@SugaFree2387]

I used to catch a lot of hate for always stating that HD600s were much better headphones for gaming, compared to the so called “wide soundstage” counterparts that everyone kept recommending. I guess I wasn’t really wrong, or my hearing isn’t broken, like so many people have told me.

[@potion95]

I use Hifiman Ananda non-stealth and they are easily the best gaming headphones I’ve tried especially for competitive fps games. Truly feels like you are cheating with how accurate the imaging and directional audio in general are. The soundstage is also pretty wide but not in an artificial way. I also own the Arya stealth but those are terrible for directional audio and imaging placement surprisingly so I only use those for music.

[@potion95]

The DT990s 250ohm were also great for gaming but the treble can be VERY aggressive and hurts your ears sometimes. Not everyone will be as sensitive to this though.

[@pablogalianoarjona7073]

what means non- stealth version?

[@garygriffiths7353]

I use dt990 a lot for movies, KZbin, gaming and even meetings for work. I do eq them though. With eq I happily use them to listen to music too. Unpopular take but for the money they are great

[@Find_the_Door]

I've been using the HD800-S for about 7 years now. The 990 Pro yielded the same results for me. I found them more "fun" and immersive to me than the HD800-S but when the sound got busy it just jumbled all together. Back to the HD-800-S for me Only issue with them is the default pads and cables wear unusually fast. I use third party durable replacements.

[@christianhuffman7440]

Hd800s is 1300$ that's avsolutley atrocious

[@joecaner]

Interesting. I have the HD600's, and I love how they sound.

[@shadeshotTV]

i chose my first non-gaming headphone for gaming, and that was the ad1000x, bass is pretty limited but the highs hit you in the face (but with a pillow type of way, not like a brick wall), for more open map type games like battlefield they are insanely immersive and after 6+ years of owning them i still have to take them off to make sure there isnt something outside my door, when people describe the hd800s i get all of that with my ad1000x but with much less technical performance of course after getting the sundara for listening and watching content the gaming performance is as described in this video, you can hear everything distinctly but the imaging isnt precise enough for you to naturally place a sound in a fully 3d space

[@5ChSP2UxVtswQh-Znzkpbg]

Ad500x here, for PUBG too, i love them.

[@noenken]

Surprised to see only open back cans here, tbh. I agree on the HD600. I use the 650s because I like the sound better for everything other than gaming, they are more multipurpose for me. Strictly for games I use DT770 Pro 80 Ohm closed back cans. They are a nice mix of isolation from the real world, comfort and "gaming sound" for a reasonable price. I did own a pair of DT990 Pro but did not get along with those. The treble was too harsh.

[@JimmyNuisance]

If you want the TD 990 Pro but hate that dumb cable, get the 900 Pro X instead. Similar headphones, replacable cable (comes with two, one 1.5 meter and one 3 meter cable) with no swirlies. Great quality, but more expensive. I got mine yesterday after dismissing the 990s pro due to that bad cable, and the 900 Pro X are faaaantastic so far. So nice and open. They're lower impedence and also the highs are nowhere near as harsh as the DT990s are.

[@sheep7255]

Ninja doesn't use the 990's anymore, he has upgraded to the 1990's

[@yuh6812]

Nerd

[@rubenterminiello6704]

@@yuh6812 ???????????????

[@zlevelx]

Quality Gear wont inherently make anyone better if you're trash you're trash BUT it will allow you to play at your full potential and as you practice and get better that small difference in quality gear can mean alot in overall competitiveness

[@BuckieJr]

I’ve got the hd 600’s , sundara’s and moondrop Venus amongst some others that i don’t use as often. Have to say that disagree with him about the sundara and 600’s. My sundara’s are my go to gaming headphones as they just do everything better for me. Now it may have to do with the fact I’ve swapped pads to something like the lcd-2 has, the big squishy pads, but sound stage and imaging is fantastic compared to my hd 600. The Venus beats both but they’re uncomfortable to wear longer then an hour or so. So don’t game with ‘em much.

[@warriora7245]

Why don’t people talk about the Tygr 300R…..it’s literally a better 990 pro in every way my opinion.

[@deluxebulls5939]

crosshair placement on point. This guy games

[@VicharB]

For several years I am rocking Sennheiser GAME ONE (50 ohm), used on PS4 then PS5 and PC, and will continue to use for few years to come; really like them. Also have HD600 for years now, but not for gaming for me, as also have HD58X. I am not into competitive multiplayer gaming, mostly single player, which may dictate my choice. Tried playing with my Momentum 4 wireless (but wired) - nah. If I were to go with new ones today I would be inclined to tilt towards something like Drop + Sennheiser PC38X.

[@Dex4Sure]

After buying HD 650 have felt don't need another headphone, but might get HD 600 as well just for that bit more airy sound signature.

[@Shyniz_]

Hey man I'm looking for a headphone, do you think the hd600 will be a great choice for gaming, music etc... ??

Reply to both... if you already have the HD650, the HD600s aren't going to be very different. They have slightly more treble, but the difference between them is less than the difference between new and well worn pads on either. I ended up with HD600s because they were on sale for £20 less than the 650s, and the same price as the Mass Drop HD6XX after shipping and tax to the UK. I'd say have a play at modding your 650s, it will cost you far less and likely get you closer to your preferred sound. Or spend the money on a better DAC/AMP depending on what you currently run. The HD600 are lovely for music, and for gaming they are supremely light and comfy. But their presentation is quite close and intimate. Not ideal for spatial awareness. But also not bad, either. Using Dolby Atmos for headphones in Windows is the best upgrade you can.do for gaming, IMO. But swi5h that, and Windows audio enhancement, OFF for music unless you happen to prefer it for whatever reason. Incidentally, I use DT990s for gaming. The deeper reach into sub-bass being more immersive to me.

[@TheFatalintention]

You need have to test the 560s, those cans top tier and half the price!

[@geegee9765]

SHP9500 and HD560S is missing in this comparison.

[@nhk403]

In Overwatch, which sound profile were you on? Studio? And was headphone mode enabled for all of them? Interesting video though! Great work.

[@ZenTunE-]

I have sundaras as my only headphone. I mostly play single player games where pinpoint imaging isn't that crucial. Recently played the last of us 2 with them and I never had issues telling where enemies were. Game sounded great. So for anything other than serious competetive, I'd recommend them.

[@ZenTunE-]

I hate how the term gaming is used, they are not bad for gaming. Story games will be an awesome experience on these.

[@cassiothird]

I would love to see a piecr checking if eqing all the headphones to the hd800s curve would improve their results. Also would be nice to see more models tested

[@soraflame66]

Very curious how Arya Stealth, HE1kV2 Stealth, and Focal Clear would perform compared to these for gaming :) i know hd800s will always be the king but still curious!!

[@linlong3440]

same

[@Tripokaridos22]

I dont have 800s i Have SUndara, Focal Clear , all HD 5 and HD 6 line , and some others. Imaging and ONLY imaging HD 660s2 are way better than all of them ( imaging not Soundstage ) with 660s2 u can clearly pin point every direction also up and down. i am playing a lot of game and from Look there are people at 140 degrees i am Look there are people behind that tree ... Also the NONE so wide Soundstage helps a bit make it easier to pin point . Huge Soundstage is amazing for immersion mostly .

[@jacobbarfield7828]

Shocked that the HD560s, R70x and DT 900 Pro X aren’t here, especially since they’re way more affordable than the HD800s.

[@fatsparr0w525]

Can you recommend a headphone that can hear the overwatch 2 pve?

[@jackjack9735]

I've heard sennheiser were bringing out a collab 600 series but it got canned

[@LateBandwagon]

Idk if that’s the joke or not but they cancelled pve

[@jackjack9735]

@@LateBandwagon si, it got "canned"

[@gigolocalypsetv5520]

Would have loved to hear your thoughts, on this subject matter, with the ATH-R70X!

[@joseroncero8379]

I have them. They have poor imaging and you won't be able to pinpoint footsteps and enemy location in a game such as CS. They are very comfortable.

[@gigolocalypsetv5520]

@@joseroncero8379 I actually own them too, and feels it's the opposite from what I could tell on 2042. I wouldn't call it my daily driver, but I've enjoyed them. Always wonder about other's thoughts on it, though.

[@FromWitchSide]

An idea for follow up video, aside people demanding HD560S, DT990 vs DT880. For some reason (higher number?) people are skipping DT880 and recommending DT990, but it seems like it should be the other way around.

[@Twistid5one3]

I'd like to know what dac/amp you're using because with the sennheiser gsx 1000 and jds atom stack there is a setting on the gsx 1000 to boost the sound in front of you which helps pin point where sounds come from. Your headset alone can only do so much your dac plays a huge part in your imaging and being able to tell where things are. Currently have been using the dt990 pro for a few years and about to order the sundara.

[@scotty_teee4226]

Add the 900 pro x and the 560s to this mix of headphones. They seem to be really good for gaming too

[@Milchschndde]

I tired them, they sound a little damped imo. Nice neutral with enought bass tho. My dt 990 and dt 1990 have bether imaging, so the 900 is not worth it at this pricepoint for comp gaming imo.

[@scotty_teee4226]

@Milchschndde I think the 560 is better than all of the above, for music and gaming. The new 490 pro looks really good too

[@Milchschndde]

@@scotty_teee4226 I respectfully disagree even I rly like my 560s too. I prefer the 560s for music too, for most songs, but the imaging and soundstage are way bether on the beyer. I use all my headphones with eq tho, so i can use the bigger soundstage and bether imaging (most important for gaming imo) on my dt 1990 while still enjoying music to its fullest. I prefer the 560s in any way over the 900 tho, with or without eq. The 560s are great out of the box and punch above their pricepoint.

[@Milchschndde]

@@scotty_teee4226 I use the 560s for my e piano, they are great and pretty neutral out of the box. For gaming I prefer my dt 1990 because of the bether imaging and bigger soundstage. With the use of eq the beyer become unbeatable because it gets rid of the trebble peak and you can enjoy great imaging, sounstage while gaming and music. Wihout eq its close to a draw to me between the dt 1990 and the 560s wit the beyer slghtly ahead. I prefer the 560s wit or without eq over the 900 tho. They sound to damped for me. the 560s punch way above their price class and I get why they are so loved, I rly like them too.

[@Milchschndde]

I use the 560s for my e piano, they are great and pretty neutral out of the box. For gaming I prefer my dt 1990 because of the bether imaging and bigger soundstage. With the use of eq the beyer become unbeatable because it gets rid of the trebble peak and you can enjoy great imaging, sounstage while gaming and music. Wihout eq its close to a draw to me between the dt 1990 and the 560s wit the beyer slghtly ahead. I prefer the 560s wit or without eq over the 900 tho. They sound to damped for me. the 560s punch way above their price class and I get why they are so loved, I rly like them too.

[@Lead_Foot]

I don't really care about audio for competitiveness. I only care about audio for immersion. E-sports games aren't the only games that exist.

[@chrono-headphonereviews242]

I don’t mean to isolate those games out, and I might make a list of audio setups I enjoy for those type of games, too! Been playing a lot of Ghostwire Tokyo and Tears of the Kingdom recently, and my favorite setup for those games has been my KEF LS50 Wireless II speakers paired up with my LG C1-a superb experience for single player games in a small room like my office.

[@soraflame66]

For immersion a Fostex thx00, hd660s, Hifiman Ananda/Arya, Focals, are the best ive ever experienced! For competitive stuff like FPS hd800s dt1990 pro and Hd560d are the best. Hope my answer helps :)

[@ItsStep_]

Is this still up to date in 2024? Which of these are great for also listening to music or for movies/shows?

[@chungang7037]

The 800s is great for Project Zomboid.

[@mooseclappin11]

My daily driver for gaming is the AKG K712. The soundstage is pretty crazy for the price point.

[@Hakku1403]

AKG 712 Pro is the best soundstage & Imaging Headphone after the HD800s. try it out and thank me later

[@docpic18]

I have watched many contradictory reviews on the lcd gx. Where would you put it between those in terms of sound stage/imaging quality?

[@ZRay507]

Would love a "benchmark" for the DT1990

[@soraflame66]

Number 2 in the world for gaming behind the hd800s its a close margin. Hope that helps!! :)

[@ssolx5527]

what about the tygr300r since beyer says its made for gaming?? also any recommendations for openback headphones for music listening at home(mostly techno,edm,trance and some hypetrailers and faster orchestra music)(got focal elegia they slam quite hard but i need to change & wanna go openback) ? are hifiman edition xs , ananda v2/nano a good fit? or is the ananda not worth the price for fun listening? any other ones that come to mind - the tygr are 4-5 times less expensive, but where do the lack for music listening compared to edition xs/ananda? thanks:)

[@soraflame66]

Lcd-x 2021 edition or Arya Stealth!! :)

[@soraflame66]

But if you're trying to save money and mainly EDM then definitely edition xs if not then i'd still say lcd x or arya stealth

[@ssolx5527]

@@soraflame66 thanks for the reply , which amp is good for edition xs? Hows ananda compared to edition xs, since xs is Like 150-200 Euros cheaper , dunno If ananda (nano) improves Sound that much or i should Go xs+better AMP for example.. since idk If Arya wirhout amp Makes Sense -- also can u just buy a cheap amp and eq some bass on these headphones?

[@soraflame66]

@@ssolx5527 I think the ananda stealth/nano is better and in a noticable way than the xs. Its definitely worth the upgrade but it all depends on your budget and tastes and if u want to eq/bass boost. The xs does have more bass though and a tuning more suited towards edm but that doesnt mean the bass is better. If u were to eq/bass boost the ananda its a beast for Electronic music and other modern genres but it all depends on what u want. Most amps are great for them as long as it has enough power and as long as its not a analytical amp that boosts those hifimans treble in any way. u certainly dont want that. All the ifi amps work great for it, topping a90d, and many others

[@leonardoaviles8738]

i use my hd800s for valorant, cs, and overwatch. what amp dac combos would you recommend? (preferably under $400). thank you!

[@budstopseasyroadspence]

They're super expensive, how do you like em? Best pair of headphones you've ever had?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

This content seems familiar.

[@zerotactix5739]

Shieet! Fresh here, and nobody even noticed.

[@AZREDFERN]

I need to stop buying headphones. All but one of my headphones are open back except the ATH-M50x, which is pretty muddy. Even the 3D printed Headamame sounds better, except it’s technically semi-open back with venting behind the cups. Most of my headphones can’t be driven by a Steam Deck or VR headset. I’m still looking for that golden travel gaming goose that’s a closed back, 32ohm, and purely focused on imaging more than being a good audiophile headphone. I don’t think it exists. I probably spoiled myself with the HD800s and the big Schiit stack.

[@r4yker442]

It's called an IEM

[@saricubra2867]

DT770 Pro blows the M50X out of the water. Flatter, godlike soundstage for a closed-back and it has a 32ohm version. The weakness is the lack of portability, very bulky but totally worth it. The M50X sound profile disappointed me so much, it sounded colored to me. Meanwhile when i hear music through the DT 770s it's like a better Dynaudio BM6A studio monitors for the ears.

[@xskyzel]

I'd love seeing one of those comparing the VZR Model One too

[@BRK-ee2se]

I mean, the dt990 pro with a amp is cheaper then all the others tested. Price to performance there the best option

[@Crisheight]

Adding to the suggestion list: 560s have a bigger soundstage and good imaging 660s have a smaller soundstage but more precise imaging, better layering

[@KYO_999]

Is koss ksc75 good for tight budget?

[@Crisheight]

While I'm not familiar with that set, or IEMs, I do believe the popular reviewer Crinacle holds the belief that those are probably the best thing you can get under $50. I would guide you to that channel.@@KYO_999

[@SpookyFairy]

@@KYO_999 I bought them, when they arrive I'll test them out. I bought them just to test the open back type of headset before I invest in a better open back one.

[@joseroncero8379]

I've owned and tried the HD800s, every model of the Beyerdynamic tested here, the ATH-R70x, the Sundara, and several other Sennheiser (560, 8xx etc). By far, the best are the HD800s, the gap is too big and nothing on this list comes close. However, the next best headphones are actually the AKG K7XX. They have a massive soundstage and excellent imaging, of course, not to the level of the HD800s, but they are by far the next best choice if you can find them. The problem with them is that they get this annoying creaking noise from the plastic casing.

[@budstopseasyroadspence]

Uh, are you rich lol? The 800s are so expensive. Do you buy all of these headphones or do you go somewhere to try them on and test them out? Lastly, have you tried the Sennheiser 490? Those are apparently the #2, the 800s being the #1 of course.

[@joseroncero8379]

@@budstopseasyroadspence I wish I was rich! I love inmersion in my gaming, which is my hobby so I do splurge on it. I bought all the headsets I've tested in search of the perfect headset for PC gaming. I retuned them all and only ended up keeping the AKG k7XX since it was the second best for gaming, but way cheaper than the HD800s. I also kept the HiFiman HE6E for music. I have not tried the 490, but I did have the 560s which are supposed to be slightly better yet I found them to be very mediocre and inferior to the AKG K7XX for gaming. However, my go to now are the XENNS Mangird Top IEMs. These are perfection for both gaming and music. Ever since I bought them the search is over. This is my last set until they fall apart which I hope will take years of use. They have excellent imaging, soundstage, good base all in a tiny form factor. A close second to the king hd800s in terms of soundstage and way better in every other aspect - especially comfort. PS: for reference, all these headsets and IEM I've powered with Schiit Bifrost, and Jotun 2. I also use a Buttkicker transducer attached to my chair for base you can feel.

[@budstopseasyroadspence]

@@joseroncero8379 Interesting, thanks! Do you have discord?

[@budstopseasyroadspence]

@@joseroncero8379 lowkeygodly

[@budstopseasyroadspence]

@@joseroncero8379 4dd m3 on d1sc0rd lowkeygodly

[@uncle3883]

What interface/amp were you using?

[@Tripokaridos22]

Honestly HD700, HD660s, HD660s2 imaging is way better than all of them and even more expensive headphones. Even Compared to the KING HD800 because HD800 soundstage is so big that some times in Competitive games like PUBG ,CS i can hear people and spot them but the distance feels off ... with HD660s and S2 imaging is pin point but with smaller soundstage so when u can hear the footsteps the time u want and when i see the enemy the distance feels more natural .

[@dani_i8942]

Why do people only talk about imaging and soundstage? None of that makes you a better gamer. I'll stick to my Sundara because the sound quality, with a bit of EQ, is clean, crisp and punchy - excellent headphones for any type of game.

[@MrJabinho]

What about old Hd700 ?

[@Tripokaridos22]

HD 700 have way better imaging than all of them except HD800s, Honestly HD 660s s2 and 700 are my best imaging headphones.

[@darknesseclipse538]

What do you think about Focal Bathys as gaming headphones? I mainly use them for single player games (including FPS) and did not seem bad.

[@DANKKrish]

k712 is pretty good too for gaming

[@impuls60]

Instead of just trying a bunch of headsets, why not talk about the desired traits a user should look for. We know that we want the sound energy to absorbed/dissapated quickly so it doesnt mask new low level audio cues. That means soft earpads is a pluss, leather is bad. You want a bass/midrange balance to be good so you hear changes in the upper bass so you know if player is above or below you. Also correct amount of threble and lack of resonnances in the 1000-7000Hz region gives good imaging. That leaves out headphones with suckouts in that freq range. Angled drivers gives better forward imaging on the expense of rear imaging. Open back headphones with a less open grill gives a 300Hz boost which increases tha ambient bass and fullness, while open grills gives better imaging whith a thinner analytical sound profile.(Because of less reflected sound energy towards the ear). I would like all these characteristics tested and summed up in a buyers guide. It would atleast be an first innovative guide on headphones in the YT space and a true benchmark for your channel :)

[@mossie125]

great idea!

[@drm3819]

„ON A BUDGET”, who spends €1500 on a headphone to play a game, apart from the person making headphone reviews. Lmao

[@asthmaticrhino]

My thoughts on what ive tried so far, chief Val and Apex AD 700x: just okay, soundstage is good but not much for precise. Anemic bass. DT770: i find the treble makes gunshots too piercing and drowns out other stuff, so i have to reduce volume, wich defeats purpose PC37x: its pretty vauge on imaging compated to the 770s and the bass is pretty anemic. Hifiman HE4xx: widest soundstage but ironically that makes them worse for directionality, has an odd "crunchy" sound that i attribute to its lower treble/upper mids characteristics. HD560s: probably my personal favorite, it has less agressive treble. The soundstage isnt as wide as the hifimana but as a result finding direction seems to be easier I will say rn my favorite for gaming is actually my IEMs, ive been using myS12 pros. I find that you wamt *enough* soundstage to provide some distance queues, but quickly it becomes a tradeoff for imaging precision, or it seems to with how game audio is engineered. I remember when i was sweaty in siege, they reccomended "night mode" which was the lowest dynamic range so you could hear footsteps better. Same concept i think apolies to headphones when you put soundstage too far out, youre less likely to pick up pn the more subtle queues

[@zeitneit2837]

Did you try just to reduce trebles in EQ for ur dt770pro?

[@JayCruz49er]

No PC38X? That’s like THE gaming headset. Even has a boom mic included. Great for console gaming as well!

[@silkroad1201]

They weren't designed for gaming, or for listening. Just because they're used in audio production, doesn't mean they should be used for recreation. They're designed to be flat. Which means no added bass or any other type of "color". This is great for making accurate audio, but not so much for listening to music or gaming. Whoever is regarding the 990s as a great gaming headphone has no idea what they're talking about

[@DMS3TV]

Fun fact, they're also bad for pro use as they're extremely colored and not remotely "flat".

[@Tripokaridos22]

I have all of them and HD5 and HD 6 line ... HD 660s2 have by FAR the best imaging. When Reviewers said that Sundara had better Imaging from HD 660s i always told them u are Wrong ...

[@Darviielol]

A mei zing😭 this dudes definitely a gamer 😭

[@blessedred]

I would like to see your opinion on Hifiman Arya's being used for gaming.

[@koksikxxxx]

why aren't headphones tested in hunt showdown ?!?!

[@andrewetos]

Audeze Maxwell mopping the floor with all of these

[@Richard-vi3ec]

What DAC and Amplifier did you use in the HD800S?

[@8lec_R]

What's up with the approx 45s silence at the end of the video

[@Pizza____God]

HD560s overlooked again

[@kadozack]

These lineup are old. HD560s over HD6x0, DT900 over DT990 and R70x over SUNDRA,

[@rpenm]

I tried the Sundara recently and found it worse at resolving detail than my AKG K550s or Salnotes Zero. The strings on The Flashbulb's "Treaty" were barely audible. So I didn't even bother evaluating imaging.

[@hawaiian-cerveza]

I want the hd800S but from what I've veen told the AKG Q701 (which I've had) come the closest to the soundstage of the 800S. I would get it again but they arent sold at 100ish anymore.

[@SuperReview]

KPH30i is endgame gaming headphone.

[@chrono-headphonereviews242]

👀

[@ZWortek]

Sundara imaging sucks for competitive gaming imo. There is a weird thing where you lose direction of footsteps near center that doesn't happen with something like Edition XS, PC38X, or even Focal Elegia.

[@lazykun_]

where do you place the hd58X? near the hd6xx or closer to the sundara?

[@whoshotya117]

I think the 800s is too wide for gaming. In R6 Siege people sound farther away than they are and then when I went back to my 660s it felt more accurate and up close.

[@TreSwayy]

very good point to make

[@HobbyTalk]

You know he means business cause he has his compression sleeve on… fr fr no cap

[@chrono-headphonereviews242]

Oh naaaah you saw the sleeve 😱 Once I got used to it I couldn’t stop using it hehehe

[@HobbyTalk]

@@chrono-headphonereviews242 haha 😆 I get it tho… the reduction of my arm sticking to the desk would be enough

[@Febrezerr]

Have you tried the DT 900 Pro X?

[@fabian3112]

Love my Dt1990pro with Amiron Discs and Dekoni Velour Pads

[@LonewolfSZN]

are you using dac or an amp? or are they just raw 3.5mm?

[@wolfman929]

what sound card are you plugging the dt 990 pro into ?

[@xxgordonhayward]

What amp do you use for the hd800s and then how do you plug an xlr mic into the setup as well

[@acsgdo02]

So what IEM for you would be at the hd800 level ?