Best Closed Back Headphone Buying Guide! For every budget!

[@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 :)

[@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!

[@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! 😁

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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 ❤

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@raphaelmeillat8527]

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

[@GadgetryTech]

Much appreciated!

[@nottheonlyjustin]

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

[@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

[@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??

[@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.

[@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?

[@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!

[@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.

[@namvu1956]

You had my curiosity, but now you have my subscribe

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks for the support!

[@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

[@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

[@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??

[@greccoox]

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

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks!

[@ScottHermanFitness]

Great video bro! So many to choose from!

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks man!

[@JamesKimSydney]

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

[@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. 😂

[@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

[@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?

[@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

[@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.

[@krystofkatrusak903]

Great video man, keep it up!

[@GadgetryTech]

Thank you!

[@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

[@davidstrong2689]

FiiO FT1 or Audeze Maxwell for both pc gaming (mostly single player games and fps) and music for best sound quality? Other features are just a bonus (wireless, mic, etc.). Currently using Audio-technica ATH-AD700x for the last 5+ years, so looking for a good closed back set. Thank you and enjoy the content.

[@GadgetryTech]

FiiO FT1 is a better value purely on sound. The Maxwell just has a ton of extra features so you pay for that.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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?

[@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.

[@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.

[@cheesychester9647]

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

[@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.

[@hacorn96]

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

[@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?

[@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?

[@wana.me003]

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

[@GadgetryTech]

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

[@north08]

Love the look of the 99 classic

[@GadgetryTech]

It's a stunner for sure

[@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?

[@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

[@EvanMann7]

Great review. Whats your thoughts on the Sivga sv 21 Robins.

[@nickbdy]

Excellent guide. Thanks!

[@GadgetryTech]

No problem!

[@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!

[@Tinyboyyy]

My new Christmas tradition!

[@ThePh34R]

Going in circles trying to decide between the DT700 pro x and the Senn HD 620S. Judging by reviews, they're really similar in terms of performance, though I'd say more people prefer the Sennheisers. Plus they're apparently built way better. The most obvious advantage of the DT700 for me would be its XLR connector, which would allow me to easily swap between my K712s and them when I need more isolation. Oh, and the price :D Decisions, decisions...

[@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/

[@Kamakurajoe]

Thank you for this clip. Love your channel ❤❤

[@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?

[@KING_DRANZER]

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

[@GadgetryTech]

I gotchu!

[@laithorabi9571]

Every video you keep surprising me with your professional reviews and for sure your personal opinions that I do take by for sure. I'm looking for a headset within the price range of Epos H6 Pro Open/Closed and lower, which headset would you recommend for me in that price range for mixed usage and mixed gaming SP/MP games? If your answer is the H6 Pros, would you recommend the open back even if i have a somewhat noisy room?

[@GadgetryTech]

If you have a somewhat noisy room that can be difficult. Technically the Drop PC38X is a better option if you can get it, but it's still an open back. The closed back H6 Pro is great, but the gaming division of EPOS was shut down so I have no idea what kind of support you would get. Plus it needs a pretty decent bass reduction to be more neutral for mixed gaming. If you want wired and need a headset under $200 that's a closed back, then the Rode NTH-100M may be a better option for you at that point. Otherwise you could consider wireless, or spend a little more for a custom headset setup like the FiiO FT1 + Meze Boom Mic, which is an insane combo.

[@laithorabi9571]

Every video you keep surprising me with your professional reviews and for sure your personal opinions that I do take by for sure. I'm looking for a headset within the price range of 125$ such as the following headsets and lower, which headset would you recommend for me in that price range for movies, music, and mixed gaming SP/MP games? Epos H6 Pro Closed Back Steelseries Nova 4/3/1/Prime Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Gen 3 / 600 Gen 3 / 600 Gen 2 Max Razer Blackshark V2 / V2 Hyperspeed Razer Kraken V3 X / V3 / V3 Hypersense / V4 X HyperX Cloud 3 / Alpha / Alpha S / Alpha Pro Logitech G Pro X 2nd Gen Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Astro A40 Corsait HS80 / 65 / 55 One last option I have is the FiiO JT1 which I can buy with a seperate mic as the VModa Boom Pro or a standalone mic like the fifine AM8 If your answer is the H6 Pros, would you recommend the closed back version as my room is a bit noisy so I can't get open backs? Note: the H6 Pro and the JT1 are on sale that's why I considered it actually. Also Even though I'd love a wireless headset but I'm trying to stay away from wireless unless it has a wired option due to my doctor's instructions.

[@laithorabi9571]

After all that I'm really sorry for my complicated request for help but I've been lost for months about which headset to get in my case

[@jello2tube]

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

[@GadgetryTech]

Thanks! More to come :)

[@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!

[@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

[@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?

[@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.

[@mattialemboluscari8774]

YOOOOO there we gooo 🤩🤩🤩🤩

[@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.

[@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.

[@rilchu3037]

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

[@chepesk132004]

Amazing video bro

[@5_i_v_e]

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

[@GadgetryTech]

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

[@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.

[@gamersintech]

I use and love focal celestee

[@CDubbsW0rld]

The video I've been looking for.

[@gdemirjian]

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

[@SUREILLBYTE]

cant wait for open back video

[@ragu4545]

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

[@SheepDude-qp7ux]

K371 my beloved

[@_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

[@audie-cashstack-uk4881]

Jt1/ft3 Epps h3. EPOS h6 pro openback / corsair hs65 / hd599. Sb G6. Fiio k11…. My collection gaming movies music.

[@mikes41720]

I just picked up the FiiO FT1 a few days ago. Really, really, really surprised at how much headphone you're getting for 150 bucks.

[@GadgetryTech]

Agreed! They absolutely knocked it out of the park with the FT1. I think one of the best headphone values in a long time, along with Sennheiser HD 6x0 line (650/6xx).

[@otg6744]

Would you recommend a closed back over open back for single player gaming? I thought the better soundstage achievable by an open back would make it superior for single player gaming

[@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 💯

[@kookichi2034]

Hi! Since I’m looking for some isolation, I was considering going for closed-back headphones, mainly for music, gaming, and watching series/movies/anime (with a bit of editing too). Design is important to me, so I’ve been eyeing the Aune SR7000, which supposedly has the sound of an open-back. It seems perfect, but is spending that much on closed-backs really worth it? Would I get better sound quality with open-backs in the 400-euro range (I’m thinking of Sennheiser, HiFiMAN, and the AR5000, which I love)? Does the SR7000 avoid the compressed/underwater effect that some closed-backs tend to have? I’m having a hard time deciding...

[@lowercasegoat]

I have been absolutely loving the DT770 PRO X LE. I know you didn't love that pick, but it's one of the few headphones that I've really disagreed with you on. To me the driver is an upgrade in every way over the DT990/770, and it has become my daily driver (lots of background noise here, so my open back headphones are mostly out right now). I've wondered a number of times if maybe you got a poor example, or if source makes some sort of difference (I use an SMSL SU-8S/SH-8S stack)....

[@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?

[@killer2382]

Which one is better for competitive multi-player fps, fio ft1 or dt770 pro?

[@GadgetryTech]

FT1 and 700 Pro X are better

[@Jaytiss]

Great content!

[@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 ❤❤

[@TOM7952]

You look tired in the thumbnail 😅 I appreciate the work you put in.

[@GadgetryTech]

Haha yeah I definitely was! This video took me a couple weeks to pull off. Lots of testing, notes, editing, etc. lol

[@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.

[@kaskalo2]

So, if Maxwell (for example) is categorized as "headset" being wireless, with mic and all those features, it doesn't qualify for this list? 🤔 I mean, it's also technically a headphone... 🤷

[@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.

[@eamonalex1]

Please do one for wireless headphones!

[@SCAR-FACE-99]

Best gaming headsets with mics video?

[@GadgetryTech]

Coming soon :)

[@SCAR-FACE-99]

@GadgetryTech You legend!

[@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.