Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around finding a suitable desktop headphone audio system that includes a USB DAC, an amplifier using transistor technology (class A or AB), and closed-design headphones that effectively cancel out ambient noise. Participants share recommendations, personal experiences, and preferences regarding brands and models.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant seeks recommendations for a reasonably priced headphone audio system that includes a USB DAC, an amplifier, and comfortable closed headphones.
- Another suggests checking out the head-fi forum but warns against fanboyism present there.
- A participant mentions Bose headphones as a top choice, although they express confusion about amplifier class types and share their preference for lightweight SONY headphones.
- One participant specifies a desire for a wired solution due to poor audio card performance and lack of Linux drivers for higher-end models.
- A recommendation for Sennheiser headphones is made, highlighting the comfort and sound quality of the HD 590 model, which was purchased at a discount.
- Another participant provides links to Headroom for reviews and frequency response plots of Sennheiser models, noting differences in sound quality among the HD580, HD595, and speculating about the HD590.
- One participant expresses a strong preference for Sennheisers and advises against Bose, citing marketing over substance, while sharing their personal experience with lower-cost headphones and their satisfaction with sound quality.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the quality of Sennheiser headphones, but there is disagreement regarding the value of high-end audiophile systems compared to more affordable options. The discussion remains unresolved on the best specific system to recommend.
Contextual Notes
Some participants express uncertainty about technical terms related to amplifier classes and the specific sound characteristics of various headphone models. There is also a lack of consensus on the importance of high-end audio equipment versus more budget-friendly alternatives.
but I like the ones I use everyday. Got muh cheap SONY headphones I got for my birthday, from Thailand. They are very light, no cups around your ears, sound quality is great, and you forget they are on you head. Except of the cord. Soon enough all headphones will be wireless... hopefully soon. 
I hate wires!