Sennheiser HD280Pro Headphones

[Wotto]

Hey guys,

I work in the AV industry and I can get these cheap - REAL cheap compared to retail price out here in Oz.

Has anyone used them / does anyone use them with electronic drum kits?

I have read pretty much nothing but damn fine reviews about them in general but the reviews are obviously based around hifi/ music and not E-drums.

If anyone can offer up any info I would appreciate it.:D


Cheers

Wotto

[Axe_Grinder]

I have the 280Pro's.

I have mixed feelings about them. They are very nice. By far the best headphone/reference I've ever owned.

Keep in mind that I am extremely critical of sound.

The bass is weak and easy to overload. The highs are too prominent when the EQ is lifted. Although this sounds critical... it isn't. For the money I paid, these are awesome. I really don't care for them with edrums. But, compared to most of what's out there, they kick butt and I’m sure you would be thrilled. Remember, these aren’t for listening enjoyment. They’re for mixing. Hence, the weak bass and strong treble. These are made to give you a flat response.

One thing I should add, the slide has broken on them under normal use, not abuse. Not to the point that they can't be used. Just doesn't look so pretty. Although I'm not convinced that my old drummer didn't smack them with one of those clubs he called sticks and didn't want to say anything. But, just in case he didn't... I thought it should be mentioned.

[Wotto]

WOW - thanks for that detailed reply.

Damn- BASS was what I was hoping would be perfect as I know E-drums can easily overload the bass and get h'phones crackling , which sounds sh*t.:(

[Axe_Grinder]

I would personally suggest a plain pair of home headphones with nice bass response. They will definitely color the sound to your liking. Keep in mind that the 280pro is meant as a headphone reference monitor system (mixing). They are not meant for listening enjoyment/pleasure. However, at that (mixing), they are fantastic.

Personally I love listening to music through my reference monitors, external, not headphones. But, that's just me.

As I mentioned above, I am a little disappointed with the build quality. Although, I have yet to rule out misuse.

Hope this all helps :)

[Wotto]

In the end I have gone with Sennheisser HD25 II Headphones.
VERY VERY good bass coming through these ( DJ ) headphones.

[drum4ever]

Sounds like you have solved your selection dilemma. The main thing to consider (even before sound fidelity) is whether you will use them in a live stage application. Most home phones, even really good home phones, can't take the sound pressure required to get over stage/house levels.
I use the AKG K240s. However, they seem to have been replaced with a new model. I don't know if they messed with the pressure limits. They have been great for stage levels at around $100. They are semi-open, allowing outside sound in on a limited basis, and can still drive over the surroundings.