Looking for an entry level audio set up

Hello all,

For the longest time I have had the HD 380 pro’s, and after 8 years they are finally dying. I am looking for an all purpose set up, that can be used for Gaming, TV/Movies and listening to music. This includes the headphones and dac/amp required to power it.

Budget - $600
Source - Home Desktop
Requirements for Isolation - Strong enough to block out tv sound from other rooms
Preferred Type of Headphone - Full Sized
Preferred Music - Rock&Roll, R&B, EDM, Orchestral and classical

If you require anymore info let me know.

Thank you,

Naknowbyte

I do have a headphone in mind but I am not sure about choosing DACs, AMPs or even a DAC/AMP combos since I am still technically a beginner who is still learning about those other aspects of audio. The headphones that I can think of since you require a lot of noise isolation, I think the Neumann NDH-20s are a good fit for you, for I have heard a lot of good things about it and man for that price I think it is worth it.

Any good closed back should provide adequate isolation if you only need to block out noise from other rooms. Just depends how loud that noise is. I don’t know if I would recommend the Neumann’s. They lean more neutral and some people say they can be a little uncomfortable after longer sessions. Depends what the OP wants sound signature wise though. Since gaming, TV, movies, and music are mentioned, I would probably go a little warm/fun. Budget wise, I would do something like $400-450 for the headphones and use the rest on a DAC + amp or combo unit.

Maybe look for a used Focal Elegia, Emu Teak, Denon or Fostex close backs. An IFI Hip Dac or Zen could help the Elegia with a bass boost when wanted, and should pair fine with the other headphones mentioned. hifishark.com is a good place for a search. Should put you roughly around $600

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If you’re factoring in gaming the DT 880 or Philipps Fidelio might be good choices.