Best Closed Back Headphone Buying Guide! For every budget!

[@OGarcesArt]

Found your channel while dropping down this headphone rabbit hole. I enjoy your content! Thanks for all the work you put into it.

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks so much for the support!

[@jorr1313]

I'm scared how much watching this video might ultimately cost me. Thanks Joe!😉

[@3ildcard]

Not wrong. Althought i moved on to IEM's, i want the FT1's and Meze 99's just for the aesthetics alone, 450$ off the bat. The Aune's are pretty dang-good too although, the AR5000 sounds a bit more appealing price-wise.

[@bobwood4304]

AR5000 is good value and lovely to listen to but open backed mind you

[@jorr1313]

@@bobwood4304 I’m pretty content with my open backs right now. I am eyeing the Focal Azurys and the ZMF Boka. I really don’t like the color of the Azurys. Hoping the come out with more options.

[@Deatomizer]

Same. Had no idea what a DAC was until I starting watching these videos. Now my cool Logitech speakers have an expiry date :)

[@Silver_Joystix]

I’m impressed by your effort in putting this video together. Wide range of newer headphone models, price points, and good general descriptions.

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! This one took a bit haha

[@BucephalusHume]

Awesome. Love these roundups. As a non-audiophile but someone who likes having far more knowledge than necessary for their purchasing decisions. These are great. Looking forward to the open-back video purely so I can continue to feel good about my Edition XS purchase and justify the £250 I spent on them. 50 of which was for a mic and suspension strap.

[@GadgetryTech]

Great to hear! That XS is so good for the money!

[@icyneechee]

​@@GadgetryTechHi Joel, hope all is well... Again, another Brilliant In Depth Review where you Explain Absolutely Everything making it Easy for Everyone to Understand about each headset, so please Keep up the Amazing Work & Upload Videos as Quickly as you can, especially for us Gamers who are having a Hard time on Deciding "Which" $300 - $ 570 ( AUD ) Headset to buy for us Australian Call Of Duty Xbox S/X Players...to which I can buy the Audeze Maxwell Headset for Xbox here in Australia for "AUD $509 right NOW" & I would TRULY like to "KNOW" if You would Tell Me to GO BUY them "NOW" at such a Good Price (???) as it is a Headset I've ALWAYS had My Eye on to Buy for Playing ALOT of COD Multiplayer Daily ( NOT Warzone, as I Don't Play that nor like it ), so I would REALLY LIKE & Immensely Appreciate it if You could Review it "AGAIN" Now ( or even just Tell Me to "BUY" them "Right NOW" while they are at such a GREAT PRICE ??? ) & "Compare" the Maxwell to Many other same Price Range Headsets that came out only very Recently, like the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3, Astro A50 Gen 5 & then other Wireless Headsets that Released over the Past 6 Months ( or longer ) to Determine IF the Audeze Maxwell Headset for Xbox S/X FPS Gaming is STILL Highly Recommended Over ALL other New ( WIRELESS ) Headsets or whether You would Recommend another Newer Gaming Wireless Headset OVER the Maxwell ?? I've ALWAYS Loved & Preferred "Open Back" Headsets, which there ISN'T MANY Of ( the Astro's are "1/2 Open Back" to Me & I actually liked them for that...but would Love your Opinion whether You would RECOMMEND the Maxwell over the New Astro A50 Gen 5 or Vice Versa ( ??? ) & that also Includes "MIC" Sound as I Definitely look for & Want a Clear, Broadcast like Mic as Opposed to Any Great Headset Sound but that Unfortunately has a RUBBISH, TINNY, AWFUL MIC, like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless & others that have AWFUL MIC Clarity ) & I like to 'HEAR' My Surroundings, ( I don't have Anyone around Me to bother Anyone, but I Actually have Always Liked & Feel an Open Back Headset has a Wider Audio/Frequency Sound Stage Range )... Please Help Me out here URGENTLY "BEFORE" the "Audeze Maxwell Xbox Version" goes Back Up in Price...I would be EVER SO GRATEFUL & APPRECIATE, but I NEED To KNOW "NOW" as I Think the Maxwell will go back Up in Price probably Tomorrow ( Tuesday in Australia or Maybe by Wednesday ) ...hence the "URGENCY"... Thank You again SO SO MUCH" !!! 😺😸🐈‍⬛🐾

[@patrick600]

You did really great job with this guide! Personally I've finished my search for a closed-back some time ago and bought Fiio FT1 and these cans are absolutely amazing foe their price. IMO one of the best deals in audio at the moment.

[@GadgetryTech]

Thank you so much! It’s amazing to see that essentially everyone, or close to, loves the FT1 once they buy or hear it.

[@Gwinter452]

Can the FT1 be run from a phone, or would it not sound good?

[@max10hoop]

@@Gwinter452 you should probably use an apple dongle at least

[@cixtos]

The visuals for the sound profiles adds an insane amount of value to your review. I prefer open back headphones but still found this interesting which to watch all the way through. Thank you for all the effort you put into your content ❤

[@nekrozclockwork]

Sick guide, thanks. Hope you can get your hands on the ft1 pro openbacks, if they are as good as the closedbacks they could be a complete market killer.

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! I'll see how soon I can get my hands on one. I have a lot of content coming out over the next two months so I'll do my best.

[@dreaminalife8982]

Second this

[@PanHouba]

It seems like it was a while ago when I discovered your channel, because of a review of the Razzer Barracuda headphones I wanted to buy, and now (two years and a few months later) here I am ordering the Fiio FT1 on your recommendation. What a progress! 😁

[@linhnhiphanthi]

I waiting open back version, good video :>

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! Working on that one soon. Trying to fit single product reviews in with all of this too.

[@kuronisama2007]

Amazing reviews with a lot of headphones I was wondering about. Thank you. Can't wait for the Open back version.

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks!! Glad you found it helpful

[@icyneechee]

​@@GadgetryTechDo these come in Wireless with the "Open Back Version" that you haven't Reviewed Yet ?? The Reason I ask about "Wireless Headsets" is that for some Reason, if I have a Wired Headset ( Epos ) where One End of the Cable is Obviously Plugged into the Headset & the Other End Plugged into Your CONTROLLER...Well... because I Always Use the Elite Series 2 Controller, for Some Reason, the Mic won't Work, My Character ( Call Of Duty Multiplayer ) either Moves by ITSELF or just WON'T MOVE at All & I can ONLY Hear Game Sound...."WHY" does this HAPPEN ?? I've Returned Quite a Few for this Reason & gave Up on any Highly Rated WIRED Headsets....BUT...is there a Headset ( $200 to $700 AUD Price Range ) where there IS a Fantastic ( Preferably ) "Open Back" or if None, then "Closed Back Headset" that is Wired "BUT" One End of the Cable is Plugged into the Headset Ear Cup ( or Hard Wired ) & the Other End of the Cable CAN BE PLUGGED INTO MY "XBOX S/X" Somehow, whether that IS how a Particular Headset is to be Set up or IF You can Buy a "Particular ADAPTER" so You can Use the Wired Headset from the Headset & Directly to an "XBOX SX" ??? As I Game & Always Play COD HC Multiplayer ( Not Warzone...BORES Me ) on My Xbox S/X, even though I have a PS5 Too & are about to Upgrade to the PS5 PRO...I just Prefer & like the Xbox Series X as it Performs Much better than the PS5 for Me Personally & I have Great Fast FTTP Internet & of Course I Play "Wired" with Great "Ethernet Cables" ...so EVERYTHING is "Ethernet Wired" to get the Best Fastest Gaming Connection & Gameplay... I would Greatly Appreciate ANY Highly Recommended Wired Headsets that are WIRED from the "HEADSET" Straight to the "Xbox S/X" Console even if it NEEDS a Particular A, Adapter...then PLEASE Also "Advise On "WHICH ADAPTER" to Buy ?? I'm NOT Tech Savvy Enough to Buy a DAC for the Wired Headset to Plug into instead of the Controller or Console....& that would also mean I still would Want to be Able to Create My Own Personal "EQ Settings" for whichever Headset..."UNLESS" You can Recommend a Wired Headset AND a DAC where the DAC is EASY to Configure EQ Settings & Possibly Control Chat to Volume on the DAC if you can't On a Wired Headset ?? I would Greatly Appreciate ANY Help & RECOMMENDATIONS within My "AUD Price Range" ??? Thank You !!! 😸🐈‍⬛🐾🫶

[@ScottHermanFitness]

Great video bro! So many to choose from!

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks man!

[@Medsas]

still rocking my DCA Aeon Closed X 😅 hope you do an open back guide soon!

[@GadgetryTech]

I will soon! It takes so much work to do this and I have a couple other product reviews coming out first.

[@musicofnote1]

I've had a pair of AKG 371 for over a year now and as a professional orchestral musician, I'm thrilled with them. But I wanted something decent for the gym and the Soundcore Liberty 4 irritate my ear canals. So I just got a pair of JBL Live 460nc and I have to say, they are every bit as good as the AKG. Especially when listening cabled. With all of these, one does need to consider the basic price on the one hand and the design (closed back) on the other. What that means is, that although Mahler and Bruckner sound deep dark are impressively powerful on all 3, the sound-stage is not as wide as the open back Grado 80's I loved, but my wife hated because of the leakage - she's also a professional musician and doesn't always want to listen to what I'm listening to on the headphones. I'm also a big fan of early baroque instrumental music and 70's, 80's 90's jazz-rock. And all three fill the bill there too. And yes even Baroque church music through the classics of Mozart are lovely to listen to.

[@Kenjis9965]

I bought the 770 LE recently due to my need for a new gaming headset and I'm in love with it. The brightness was weird at first but I kind of got used to it and actually started really enjoying it

[@namvu1956]

You had my curiosity, but now you have my subscribe

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks for the support!

[@roco9504]

So glad I’m hearing lots of good things on the 620S especially with isolation which is one of the most important parts for me! Yay and I get mine tomorrow!! Looking forward to it

[@raphaelmeillat8527]

Great video. Nicely put together, insightful and covering a great range of prices and products. Well done!

[@GadgetryTech]

Much appreciated!

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

Thanks as always for your in-depth and grounded perspectives and content. I would be interested in both an open back and headphone amp, including the G8, review, too.

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks Simon! The G8 needed more testing but I should have the video done this week!

[@czdot]

Fiio FT1 surprised me. It sounds great, but I had no idea it was gonna come in a really nice case. I also have Rode NTH-100. Bought them when they came out and ended up ripping the felt discs of the earphones because they a bit muffled. Awesome headphones.

[@pinoylanggaming9449]

thank for this video. I am in the market getting closed back HP. More success to you ! ! !

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! Hopefully it gets you in the right path

[@TherealOni36]

exactly the video i was looking for the last few days

[@GadgetryTech]

Awesome! That was the hope!! I don't expect my videos to be "absolute" or "all encompassing" but I hope it at least helps to start narrowing things down a bit.

[@Cpt_FoxMox]

i really needed this. i was scared of buying headphones and was just gonna give up and go back to not using any audio at all. this helped me a lot and i think i'll be going to the FT1 but the DT 770 is also right there but probably FT1. its hard since i cant tested both..

[@Cpt_FoxMox]

@andonlytheone111 so, what is treble??

[@skullblaster360]

Fiio is really putting out banger after banger. Now they just released the Fiio FT1 Pro which are open back planars. They are eventually gonna take over the whole audio market 😭

[@GadgetryTech]

I’m definitely trying to get my hands on one! It will be pretty impressive if they pull it off at $200

[@timmasters4893]

Please keep Ohms in mind when doing these videos - as some will run off phones and others you need a dedicated amp to get the character of the headphones. Great vid. I own the Emu Teak and they live on my desk.

[@Gwinter452]

What about the Fiio FT1? Will they spund good from a phone?

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! Ohms alone are misleading because sensitivity plays a major role with overall volume. I have 120 ohm headphones that get noticeably louder than some 32 ohm or lower headphones just because they are more sensitive.

[@jakesullivan9179]

⁠@@Gwinter452The FT1, is easy to drive. It can run off your phone without issue. It’s higher impedance dynamic driver headphones and planar magnetics (have low impedance but some have -10 dB sensitivity) that benefit from amplifiers.

[@ToysForTheGods]

I have a wall of headphones, from most major brands, and honestly my ridiculously cheap FIIO JT1 is what I grab the most, they are pad rolled with a cheap pair of 33mm "Frog" pads from aliexpress and just that one change has made these headphones an absolute amazing headphone for all around everyday use. I love them for vocal emphasized music, as well as gaming. They take almost no power to drive, have not had great luck with them on a pure tube amp like the Xduo ta-66 but work great with a MT-602 or just any solid state amp. I find myself suggesting these to anyone just getting into headphones that doesn't want to spend a ton of money but still enjoy great sound. You can pretty much make them sound anyway you like with nothing but a pad change.

[@imanji17]

Any chance there's a video that will cover wireless headphones coming up soon? Was looking to snag something this black friday/cyber monday that would be a good balance for gaming and general music/movie use, but the sheer number of options is overwhelming, especially around my budget range of ~$250 - $300. Based on all your other videos and reviews I've watched in the last few days, the Audeze Maxwell seems like the obvious choice for the best audio, which is my main concern; however, the huge amount of complaints I've seen regarding its fragility and the number of people that have RMA'd their sets have turned me away from it. And other than the Maxwells, it seems really difficult to pinpoint which wireless headsets have the "best" sound quality

[@icyneechee]

I am just as Confused as You on "Which" Wireless Headset to buy, Especially since I can Buy the Audeze Maxwell for Xbox S/X for "AUD $509" RIGHT NOW as of Me Writing this...which the Price WILL GO Back Up maybe Tomorrow or by Wednesday here in Australia...so I'm Wondering whether to "BUY" them Right NOW while On SPECIAL (???) as this is the 1st Time I've seen them at such a Low Special Price whether from Australia or another Country that SHIPS them to Australia.... Any Suggestions would be Greatly Appreciated ?? Thank You 😸🐈‍⬛🐾🫶

[@hardXful]

Agreed, also waiting for a video on wireless headphones.

[@LukeR1M]

I have Audeze Maxwell and it seems bizzare to me that fragility would be a concern. They are almost entirely made of metal and they seem very well built and durable compared to my Steelseries which are plastic.

[@imanji17]

@@LukeR1M From what i've read and heard online, it's less of a structural issue with the construction and more of an issue with the drivers. Complaints about 'static' or 'foil' sounds from people who treat their headsets very well. Even other youtube reviewers i've seen have said that same.

[@Some__Rando]

I got the Sony MDR-M1. They are very lightweight, with accurate-neutral-warm sound that is good for all uses. They are keepers.

[@Frank_Krueger]

Need another one of these for gaming headsets!

[@GadgetryTech]

I wish I never had to sleep haha. This video took me a week to fully test out, prep, film, etc. more vids coming for sure

[@Frank_Krueger]

@GadgetryTech We get it brother! And we appreciate the hard work you put into you videos to make sure they are thoughtfully put together and well informed. You are amazing brother, keep it up!

[@aowwii]

@@Frank_Krueger It's definitely a grind! I'm needing one for wireless headsets too. It's a shame how difficult it must be to sort it all out. Wired, wireless. PC, music, microphone, etc

[@Sturmx]

Love my FT1 headphones. I would suggest a capra audio headstrap with it. Its pretty uncomfortable in my opinion but with the strap its one of the most comfortable. Excited for the FT1 Pro's as well!

[@GadgetryTech]

Good to know! I'll either buy or print one out and give it a shot. The Capra guys are awesome.

[@k.w5804]

There's a FT1 Pro coming? Lol hard to imagine FT1 can get any better without a huge increase in price

[@arielext]

@@k.w5804 Don't worry :) The Pro is an open-back planar. It shares the design and price(ish) with the FT1 non-pro.

[@k.w5804]

@@arielext lol it feels like all the headphone manufacturers agreed to not put in so much effort and make stuff too good below $200. And then FiiO comes in flipping the table, twice. 😂

[@wana.me003]

Good job on the video... That timeline was🤣🤣! Thanks man!

[@GadgetryTech]

Lol... yeah there's a lot to jam in there

[@nottheonlyjustin]

These 1770 mkii are the most bassy headphones I’ve ever heard. They are my new favorite of any I’ve tried

[@jamesstevens968]

Hi I just ordered the beyerdynamic dt 1770 mk2 how are they for gaming and movies and are they fatiguing thanks.

[@nottheonlyjustin]

@ they aren’t fatiguing for me, I’ve tested them vs the mk1 and the 1990 pro mk1. I’ve also tested them with all the pads and the wicked cushion pads. The 1770 mk2 are great all around. Especially with the velour stock pads. I preferred the mk1 with the leather pads but the mk2 velour for sure. Imaging is good but I had to new slightly to make it a bit better. They are better for music to me than my 1990s and they make games really fun because of the bass. For raw the best gaming imaging the 1990 with the Dekoni elite velour pads can’t be beat though. So for fun, music, and decent imaging the 1770 mk2 are awesome, for the absolute best imaging the 1990

[@thespicyswede9302]

I just got my FT1s from B&H a couple days ago and they are very impressive! I'm a relatively new audiophile but these definitely seem to punch above their weight.

[@Gwinter452]

Do you need an amp for these, or can you run them directly from a phone?

[@kristoffer8740]

@@Gwinter452 They have a low impedance and high sensitivity so you can easily run them directly from a phone.

[@Gomajor7]

The Fiio FT1 is literally my favorite sounding thing ever! Though sadly I had send it back for a replacement because someone dropped a bead or something in the left ear cup during assembly, causing that ear cup to rattle when ever the headphones moved at all. Between this and having brand new DT770 Pro's experience distortion with low frequencies (also on the left ear cup), I am having the worst QC experiences ever with "higher quality" brands of headphones.

[@nickbdy]

Excellent guide. Thanks!

[@GadgetryTech]

No problem!

[@JamesKimSydney]

I really enjoy watching your videos, would love to see reviews on: - Cambridge P100 - AKG N9 Hybrid - Shure AONIC 50 gen 2

[@greccoox]

better than your reviews, are your long reviews. The best in the game GadgetryTech!

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks!

[@LewisM1984]

Great video Joe. are you going to do the same for open back too? I’ve got the HD490 pros and love them. Be interesting to see thoughts in there combined against others. Plus any news on the creative G8 review??

[@north08]

Love the look of the 99 classic

[@GadgetryTech]

It's a stunner for sure

[@tracycrum3788]

Thanks for doing this video! It's a very well done comparison. Too the point but very informative.

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! I tried balancing helpful info without being too long on winded on each model.

[@TheG102]

Waiting for the video of the Open Back picks! 👍 *curious about H6pro vs Atlas.. *Maybe comparing vs Maxwell soundstage

[@CDubbsW0rld]

The video I've been looking for.

[@mainiotaainetta]

Sonys and mezes look the best. I will try those. Thanks for the tips!

[@Tinyboyyy]

My new Christmas tradition!

[@mike.soto_]

Dan Clark e3 is the best closed back I’ve ever listened to

[@GadgetryTech]

It really is incredible. Things get a little bit more difficult to single out when you get to high end pricing. I was trying to keep this concise but 100% agree on the E3 performance. It sounds fantastic.

[@DJ_PROMO_PR]

I bought the FiiO FT1 in Beech color. The real budget king!

[@Silver_Joystix]

I’m not really a FiiO person, but I saw the picture of this model and I am very intrigued

[@chepesk132004]

Amazing video bro

[@leon_adl]

First of all great video, I am a fan of closed back headphones and will definitely check out the Fiio FT1. How would you rate the DT 770 Pro X Limited Edition compared to the DT 700 Pro X especially for FPS Gaming?

[@KING_DRANZER]

Been waiting for this. FINALLY. HURRAY!!!!

[@GadgetryTech]

I gotchu!

[@Slambear]

I have an Elex and 6XX, but that FT1 got me temped. Hopefully it goes on sale for black friday. Maybe I can justify the purchase as it's my first closed back

[@GadgetryTech]

It’s such a steel at $150 that even if it goes $5 off that’s an instant buy for me haha

[@Kamakurajoe]

Thank you for this clip. Love your channel ❤❤

[@jello2tube]

Yes... My annual video thar I look for...ty. Just in time for the holidays.

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! More to come :)

[@extro_9101]

Great Video! How dose the Audeze Maxwell compare in this list? I purchased a set this morning after watching your original review, should I cancel that order? primarily play games and listen to music/youtube.

[@Joniyah444]

That’s planar right? Try them out first. I love love planars now after hearing , I’m hooked.

[@VitiateTheImmortal]

I really want a bokeh. Got an ft1 in today. That’ll do it for now lol together with my favourites the He1000 Stealth, I’m satisfied

[@FORZEFUL]

Awesome video, hoping to see some GT custom Wicked Cushion models to come for the TB Stealth Pros!

[@GadgetryTech]

Haha I'm not sure I can do that model yet but we'll see! Our next batch does not include Turtle Beach yet, but I'm also waiting to see what they do with the Pro lineup for long term support.

[@mikafoxx2717]

Of these the FT1 looks like the winner. Neutral is king and makes everything sound good, and its better built and a closed back to boot.

[@mattialemboluscari8774]

YOOOOO there we gooo 🤩🤩🤩🤩

[@hacorn96]

this was a very helpful guide. will you be making one for wireless headphones as well?

[@tiborch]

Nice, waiting for Open :)

[@GadgetryTech]

Haha thanks! I think a lot of people are. Narrowing that down will be a TASK!

[@SUREILLBYTE]

cant wait for open back video

[@cheesychester9647]

Enjoying my Focal Azurys a lot. These are my only “hifi” headphones; they’re the partner to my Sennheiser IE900.

[@letsplayfan8891]

Quite an interesting, eclectic selection of headphones, yet zero overlap with my collection, except maybe for the Sony MDR-M1. I own a pair of Focusrite HP60v headphones, which were included for free with some audio interface / XLR microphone bundle. As far as I know, these are based on an OEM version of the Sony MDR-M1, and I really like them a lot. The main reason for the zero overlap may well be that all of my higher end headphones are open back, and this is no coincidence. So I'll be skipping this video, but still thank you for your great work, and I am looking forward to your next one!

[@GadgetryTech]

Haha thanks!! Hopefully we have some overlap on that video.

[@ANDREININJA1243]

Hello. Any plans to review the new Focal Lensys headphones?

[@GadgetryTech]

Hi! Perhaps down the road but likely not until January. Sorry!

[@lindholdt7550]

Another great video, thanks a lot for taking the time and effort to make this. I bet it's super helpful for a lot of people 👍

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks so much! I hope it helps for sure

[@rilchu3037]

Great video! Now how do the MMX 300 Pro compare to these other models?

[@evergrinding]

Thanks for the awesome and thorough roundup! Shame about the SR7000 pricing. It would be an easier pickup at roughly 450-500.

[@418792316]

tbh yeah while ar5k avg price is about 300 and i could get them for 220 and got sivga luan for 180 instead i was expecting sr7k doubling that price of 220 which is about 450-500 as you say but inititally when it start selling there was even prices around 800-900 which is absurd and right now i can get them for about 600 just cos transportation tax so they actually sit around 550

[@GadgetryTech]

Man that Sivga Luan was still such an awesome headphone for the money. Such a good value at 180!

[@418792316]

@@GadgetryTech i actually want to ask question which one you would recommend buying and if difference in price can be justified for sr7k thing is i dont really need closed back headphones cos im sitting at home most of the time but bassy closed back feature i guess could be nice but if i compare to hifiman planars and i never had one organic for 700 arya stealth magnet 500 anando nano 420 comparing to sr7k at 600 i feel like its not worth it at the same time i dont know which one option in term of value but my guess is nano?

[@5_i_v_e]

🙌🏽🔥🔥🔥🙌🏽 P.S- The StealthZ pads are badass!!

[@GadgetryTech]

So glad to hear it!! I'm making more stock now

[@mbaba09]

I have the Fiio JT1 and am thoroughly impressed with what it can deliver at it's price point. Is the FT1 a worthwhile upgrade to these?

[@unafflicted]

curious about this too

[@GadgetryTech]

I think it depends what is worth it to you? I loved the JT1 in my review but would take the FT1 any day of the week over it. It's not some miracle headphone, but it takes everything I like about the JT1 but does it slightly better.

[@mbaba09]

@ That answers my question. Thanks!

[@madmacq2577]

Awesome video, been exactly what i was looking for with the black friday coming ! Not sure you'll see this comment but would love your thoughts on it. I wanted to get some closed back headphones, but tried my hands on the 660S2/560S recently and been absolutely in love with the sound of these. I tried the 620S after it, and it felt really muffled and didn't sound great... I was wondering if any of the headphones presented would somewhat get close r to the the 660S2 sound ? I know they are open, but so far haven't found anything that sounds really close to these... Would the DT1770 Pro Mark 2 or the Sony MDR closer to any of these ? Thank you !

[@GadgetryTech]

Hey! So I think it's going to be tough to beat to ever expect a closed back to perform to the level of your open back headphones. I think the only ones here that come close are the FT1 and the SR7000. You can definitely tell when it's a closed back, and they have to design certain characteristics into it to make sure they don't have major sound issues.

[@GiLLyMGL]

Hey Joe! great vid as always. Can you please help me decide between the Audeze Maxwell and the Hifiman EditionXs for general use and fps gaming /cs2/

[@timschwarze1739]

Lovely video! How would you compare the DT770 Pro X LE to the DT700 Pro X?

[@GadgetryTech]

770 X LE is more comparable after a bit of EQ, but the 700 Pro X to me is noticeably better out of the box

[@timschwarze1739]

​@@GadgetryTechThanks for letting me know! I only have the LE and never got a chance to compare the two.

[@RenegadeOnStar]

I use the dt 770 pro x for gaming and let me say they’re amazing it feels like cheating I can hear people crouch walking from 40m away in fortnite and in COD I recommend them if you want good sounding clean headphones

[@tylermcbeath5059]

I’m torn. I demo’d the fiio ft1 today and I didn’t feel it had enough bass. I’ve been in love with my fiio fh3 IEMS for years. The drums sounded great but guitars sounded like they weren’t distorted. That being said, Hans Zimmer’s Seville sounded amazing. Maybe these fiio ft1’s aren’t meant for rock / metal.

[@joltingonwards2017]

Very good video! Which one is your favourite overall?

[@GadgetryTech]

Best value? FT1. Best for mixed content, FPS gaming, I lean towards 700 Pro X. For my daily driver use around the use type headphone, Sony MDR-M1 all day

[@joltingonwards2017]

@GadgetryTech thanks for the response, Ive been looking around for the ft1 but Im not sure they've been released yet (in the UK anyway) Any idea when they might be for sale?

[@gamersintech]

I use and love focal celestee

[@rorse6834]

Would you reccomend the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X at $190 USD for someone who enjoys a mix of singleplayer casual gaming, a few fps games, metal/rock but also more vocal and jazzy music? I'm contemplating between the 700 Pro X or the FiiO JT1 and I'm wondering if you would recommend the Beyerdynamics over the Fiio's?

[@bonanzabrandon6877]

I haven't had a chance to try the zmf Bokeh, but I have heard good things about them and I personally am a fan of zmf headphones in general.

[@jc1990yt]

Thanks so much for this video! I am looking for something to daily and need something that doesn’t look too ridiculous for work calls. As nice as the FiiO FT1 sounds for the price, they do look a bit bulky. In your opinion is the SR7000 worth the extra money compared to something like the FiiO?

[@MechFrankaTLieu]

I think there's really should be a suggestion section for Bluetooth Closed Back Headphones as many would be wanting that for general convenience and usage for ( usually non critical ) daily consumption of medias and contents , while this category do not had much there's still some good even very good one around

[@Jaytiss]

Great content!

[@theflyerpr40d]

Hi for gaming FPS I seen in your videos you like the following: Aune AR5000 Fiio FT1 Beyer 700 Pro X VZR Model One Which one would be your overall pick? In what order would you place them? Thanks

[@mikafoxx2717]

First two definitely. Pick open or closed back depending on noise level.

[@graelstream2353]

Nice vid~! Thanks for making vids like this, really liking the FT1. I have it in rotation with my AT x Apos ATH r70x refine :D

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! That's a killer combo!

[@graelstream2353]

@@GadgetryTech hoping you'd do a planar magnetic tier list hehe. Recently got my hands on a 2nd hand schiit stack. Already ordered the FiiO k11 r2r based on your reviews so I guess more fun?

[@sosa_911]

I would be really interested to see a video between wireless and wired for PC gaming only. I have been debating a lot on this subject.

[@kosmonument2682]

The Sony 720N were 100 bucks this Black Friday. Easily one of the best deals on closed headphones.

[@mitchellnash8628]

Awesome video Joe!! Of these, what ones would you recommend to be used on the PS5 straight into the Dualsense if any?

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! I found myself playing on the FT1 and DT 700 Pro X the most when I played on PS5. Both are just amazing for gaming.

[@mitchellnash8628]

@GadgetryTech fantastic thanks I'll check them out!

[@max10hoop]

Would you say the 700 Pro X is better for gaming, and the FT1 is better for music?

[@GadgetryTech]

Both are so good tbh. I think the FT1 is a better value. The 700 Pro X bass is more punchy for rock, but the FT1 is deeper sounding.

[@DOWWADC]

Really interesting hearing about these headphones, I feel like ive revisited this hobby a decade later and there is a changing of the guard. How do ATH-M50(x) hold up against the current favorites?

[@ragu4545]

How do the FT1s sound when compared to the Audeze Maxwell?

[@baboom007]

Hi. I need an answer please. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wired or FiiO FT1. They are at the same price in my country. Games, Movies, Music is the order of importance. 200$ budget. I like single player immersive games so i want something to fit that preference. I like a bit of bass but i like to hear all sounds if possible, decent soundstage. I have Razer Blackshark V2 right now, i am happy with them but i want to see if i find something better. I am open to other suggestions. Thank you.

[@GadgetryTech]

The Nova Pro wired is loaded with features and that’s a big part of what you’re paying for. If you don’t need all those features then FT1 sounds noticeably better. It’s pure analog 3.5mm connection though, so make sure that works for you.

[@_baron_8153]

Thanks for this video, it appeared just at the moment when I was choosing headphones. Now I choose between Fiio ft1 and 700 pro x. I want a universal option, both for work and for everyday use. Is it worth paying $100 extra?

[@GadgetryTech]

To be honest, I feel the FT1 is a better value. It's looser on the head though, so I'm not sure if that's an issue or not. It seems more clear/energetic sounding, but the 700 Pro X I typically grabbed more for FPS gaming and rock music. Both are amazing options and I feel you can't go wrong with either one

[@krystofkatrusak903]

Great video man, keep it up!

[@GadgetryTech]

Thank you!

[@KasperG87]

Are you dropping a similar video for gaming headset wired+wireless?

[@KasperG87]

Nevermind! just found your collab with Frankp! Awesome! thanks for the help :D

[@gdemirjian]

Should have Denon D5200 or 7200 up there. Hifiman Sundara Closed is also amazing.

[@mikeyhope7577]

Don’t even need to watch the video. Best value? FT1. Have 1500 dollars to drop on headphones? Get the FT1 and pocket 1350. Are you a billionaire? Get the FT1 and donate your money to a good cause.

[@GadgetryTech]

FiiO FT1 is indeed an incredible value

[@timschwarze1739]

Could not agree more. They are THAT good!

[@Joniyah444]

Okay now I’m going to have to buy them even though I have focal clears and Arya organic…. Idk 😂

[@wahidtafsir33]

how's the FT1 compared to FT5 , I just want immersion in games with good soundstage and listen to pop music

[@JagsP95]

​No point then its not better than either of those @@Joniyah444

[@Pegasus_Gr]

Can you please make a video comparing Astro A30 s to A50 X / Gen 5

[@mr.circus1648]

Hello. im quite new to the IEMs overall, but find it quite intresting. Im looking to buy one for gaming (with music in the backround). im around the 300 dollar benchmark. im looking at the xeens tea Pro and the ZiiGaat x Fresh. do you have recomendations? and are these just as good as headphones for the same price? much love ❤❤

[@Enkeh]

Would've liked to see some mention of how these compare to the best headsets (I use a nova pro without its mic for the most part), or is that a separate upcoming video?

[@pigmanny]

honestly I've been wanting to get a closed back I'm between bokeh and dca e3

[@GadgetryTech]

Amazing choices either way. The E3 is more technically accurate and has wonderful bass as well. The Bokeh is more of a "special listen". The bass is very strong and punchy, and vocals are warm sounding. If you want to listen to every genre under the sun with only one headphone, the E3 is a better pick. If you want some sounds to just sound extra special, that's where the Bokeh comes in.

[@kael_mnmc]

Hello! New to headsets here. Is there really a big difference between 3.5mm compared to USB headsets? Because I saw that 3.5mm is dependent on your device's sound card compared to a USB one? Does this have a huge impact on sound or nah just yolo and buy? (I'm planning on buying the beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X)

[@GadgetryTech]

USB basically means you have a cheap DAC built in to the cable to power the headset. A $10 Apple USB-C dongle is usually enough for a lot of headphones. Otherwise something like the FiiO K11 or SMSL RAW MDA1 is a good option. If you live in the US, the Schiit Magni Unity or the JDS Atom stack are great picks as well.

[@kael_mnmc]

@@GadgetryTech thanks man! Keep up the great videos 💯

[@kobbyampofo]

So what are your thoughts on the mdr m1 vs the 620s for monitoring and mixing?

[@GadgetryTech]

Both are fine for it, but I'm not a pro when it comes to that particular profession. I would imagine that the closer to neutral the better it is for that particular task. The Sony has a decent bass lift and then some relaxed low treble in the 4k region, where the 620S may make vocals sound thinner than the actually are. I think the 700 Pro X may be a better pick in that particular area for that price.

[@mrnuutnuut4314]

I literally just bought the Beyerdynamic MMX 300 pro's this morning, let's hope I made a good choice xD

[@GadgetryTech]

You did! I stuck with headphones only on this one to keep things concise. Headsets come later.