by Thomas Figueroa

Created on: December 13, 2006   Last Updated: April 16, 2011

When one is seeking a higher plethora in headphone audio, there are indeed many paths to choose. One such road that dawns on most people's minds, is that of Bose. While this seems to be a good choice, further delving into the topic quickly reveals that Bose isn't what it's necessarily made out to be in headphones. Manufacturers of audiophile headphones rarely ever are mentioned in normal audio conversations, so I thought I'd mention some of the greater alternatives to Bose headphones that offer greater sound, at a usually lower price.

Sennheiser, Grado, AKG, Audio-Technica, Etymotic Research, Shure, Westone, Sony (SA-series), Koss (budget-Fi), Beyerdynamic, Ultrasone, and Stax all make headphones tailored to those willing to seek better sound (albeit at a higher cost).

I highly recommend floating around www.head-fi.org to get a good idea on how most of these companies' headphones sound. And join the board to ask about certain headphones, as they're always willing to help.

When looking at these many options, it seems almost impossible that one will find the perfect headphone for them. Rather, I see it as a nice variety so that everyone has something for them.

First, one must decide whether the headphones are going to be used portably or in a stationary setup. Generally, if you are looking to go portable, you want to find closed headphones as they provide isolation from noise and seal in the sound. Open headphones are just that, open, and allow sound to leak outside of the headphone itself and provide little to no isolation. These headphones are generally better suited to stationary setups.

Secondly, the form factor of the headphone must be taken into consideration. Comfort in the area of headphones is ideal, as no one wants something uncomfortable sitting on their head for more than required. Everyone's comfort ideas are different though, so trying before buying is definately something that needs to be considered.

Thirdly, we come upon the price bracket. This is of course, up to you, and how much you're willing to fork out for good sound. Personally, I find this the most limiting factor of all (as do all Head-Fiers). Generally, better sound can be had at a higher price.

Lastly, we come upon the type of sound wanted. Everyone's tastes are different, so I highly recommend trying before buying (www.headphone.com has a 30 day money back guarentee). Try buying used (nothing wrong with used headphones, of all things, they're broken in; they're nice and ready for your usage.)

Again, I highly recommend visiting www.head-fi.org so as to get a good idea on how most headphones sound (as it definately varies) and how to find "synergy" with your system. These websites below are websites that will show you which headphones suit your needs and will put a smile on your face (as it has done to mine):

• www.head-fi.org: A site dediceated to hi-end headphones and headphone enthusiasts.

• www.headphone.com: A website for buying these said headphones

• www.headwize.com: A website dedicated more to the DIYer headphone person (amplification for headphones primarily)

Happy Headphoning!

Learn more about this author, Thomas Figueroa.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.