[happyslug]

So I always have 2 pairs of headphones on the go - one at work the other at home.

I listen to a lot of music at work through a laptop via Spotify or Groveshark

If I have a better pair they are at work.

My home headphones have just broken

Currently at work I have some AKG 451 - which I really like.

I need a new pair - if better than the AKG 451 they will be my work ones and the 451s come home.

My initial thought was to buy a 2nd pair of 451s

But what about the AKG Y40 - how do they compare?

Any other suggestions? I'm not averse to slightly bigger headphones for work

But I guess max price would be £100


All help will be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[GREQ]

If you like AKG, get an AKG K551.
That's in your price range and does everything very well.
It is a bit bigger and heavier than what you're used to though.

 

[happyslug]

Thanks GREQ - I will check it out.

 

[Jacktaris]

+1 to Akg 550/551. Although 550/551 are full size cans and not as portable as your 451. If you need something similar size as 451, can consider V-moda XS. V-MODA XS is more coloured sounding than 451 or 550/551 though. It presents a different kind of sound than 451, with bass having more quantity due to it being a close back. Clarity and soundstaging is quite impressive for a small on-ear close backed headphones. It is more relaxing to listen to than 451, as it is not so fatiguing IMO (YMMV).

Do audition both if you get the chance.

 

[fabio-fi]

Been using the K550 for a while and they are great for many genres (basically the same headphone as the 551's which are suited for on-the go use) 
 
The only problem is the light clamp force. If you have a big head it shouldn't be an issue

 

[happyslug]

Thanks for the replies.
 
Should be buying something on pay day
 
I've checked out the AKG 550 so might go for those.
 
But what about the Grado SR80e - much the same price.
 
I know they leak sound as my boss has an old pair of SR60 I think - which do sound good.

 

[GREQ]

Depends on your priorities.
 
AKG has better soundstage, isolation, neutrality, long-term comfort and bass - definitely closer to the true sound of the recording.
Grado has better excitement(?-subjective), electric guitar crunch/tone and livens up old 'flat' sounding recordings. 
 
Overall, the AKG does more things better.
If you want an open headphone, you're better off thinking about the Sennheiser HD598