I’ve got the notifications on 
any nighthawk recommendations 
[definitely a good recommendation]
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Did someone say FUN…
---------> Grado SR80X
maybe the SR80E if you can find them (brighter and slightly less refined, but could be even more fun)
I could also maybe recommend the DT880, Not as bright, but not boring at all.
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I would second some Grado’s, especially when you can get out and test them out. Tons of dealers.
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My 4xx drivers crinkles a lot but still works. I’ve already had 2 die on me.
I don’t think 4xx are good for metal also. I tend to prefer my emu teaks but those are much more expensive so not a fair comparison.
Boosting the bass a bit on the hifimans does make them more enjoyable.
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For metal, most prefer something on the warm side. The HD 6XX is one of my favorites for metal. But the K3 may not drive them particularly well. Personally I don’t recommend the 4XX for metal specifically. But I’ve seen a few people who liked it for that.
How do you like your treble? Do you want boosted highs? Normally “fun” means something along the lines of a V-shaped sound signature. If you like listening at high volume, you probably want something with relatively relaxed treble (like the 6XX).
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X2hr, zeus, nighthawk carbon, pad swapped beyer dt 880(suede specifically)
Those are off the top of my head in this budget.
Can also use tubes on things like the 600 ohm beyers or sennheiser 600 series and they get quite alot of bass and warmth from it
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FUN??? I 2nd/3rd/4th on Grados. I own the 325e’s (havn’t listened to the new X’s) with G1000 pads. I use Schiit Lyr 3. Lots of headroom there but Grado and Tube 
VERY FUN.
I know little more than 300. The 225e’s sound pretty close if not the same anyways just plastic vs metal. That would be with in your budget
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I highly recommend swapping to the G pads as well, especially with the new X model. I’ve got hundreds of hours on the older SR80e with the stock pads on warmer amps.
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