Audio Headphones under 10k

D

Dark Star

Innovator
Title says it all, need it for the whole shebang.

I was planning to buy the Sony 1000 XM4 or 5, but I read here that performance gains over specific spend ain't worth it.

Here are few items based on Amazon reviews only -

1. soundcore by Anker A3035
2. Sennheiser Accentum
3. Sony WH-1000XM4 (during sale it goes around ~15k)
4. Srhythm NC25

I am not averse to wired headphones, the only catch is that the wire should be detachable else its a pain to store it.

Some other features that will sweeten the deal are a good mic, foldable design, case, extended warranty etc.

Obviously, audio and audio features takes precedence.

Source will be computer, I don't have local audio files so its mostly be sourced from the net.

TIA.
 
I love my WH-1000XM4s and use them all the time (wirelessly). The key reasons for that are the convenience of being wireless and foldable, the ability to confidently throw them in a bag with their hard shell case on while travelling, and the amazing ANC when needed.

I don't think I've used my Meze 99 Neos or HD 598s in a long time since being wireless helps a lot and I don't consider myself an audiophile so the sound quality feels perfectly fine for the type of stuff I listen to - Alternative/Indie, Bedroom Pop, Hip Hop, and some Indian Indie stuff that's vocal-centric. I was disappointed with the sound quality when I got them but I tried a few suggested EQ settings via the app and the difference was significant, making them sound much better and I was happy with the result.

The mic is okayish (according to friends and colleagues) and not too great so if audio quality during calls/meetings is very important to you, then you can consider looking into other headphones or getting one of those detachable boom mics. I got the headphones for a little under 15k a year and a half ago and I'm really happy with them. If your focus is only on sound quality and nothing else matters, you'll probably find something better for the same price or less.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Dark Star
Thanks for such a detailed reply, I really appreciate your inputs..

Waiting for others to chip in. Some hands on experience with other cans might help narrow down my choice.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Simar
I have been quite happy with the Fiio JT1. Good audio for the price. Detachable cables and comfortable for long hours for me. Bought it as a beater headphone but I tend it use it a lot more for work. Comes with a inline mic which is good enough for calls.

For wireless I had quite a few but I like the Oppo Enco Air3 Pro. Light and easy to carry around with dual device connectivity. I have used wireless headphones like Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 until it fell apart due to heavy usage and traveling. Big ear pads can be quite uncomfortable in a hot weather. A tws are much comfortable for on the go usage. Even at home using the PC it works great. Dual connectivity is great for same device being connected to PC and phone.

Both of these headphones and wireless IEM would be around 9.5k combined.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: Dark Star
You can try posting on r/HeadphoneAdvice as well, although it won't be India centric so pricing and availability could be a concern.
 
Top Bottom