All of us have our own kind of music that we listen to; and we would like to have out special headphones that perform exceedingly well when playing the music that we like. For rock enthusiasts, there are varied ranges wherein music plays around; so what we are left looking for is a pair of headphones for rock & metal music that has a holistic music experience. Also, the headphones need to look the part-rugged, durable, and comfortable along with the best sonic renditions. Well, we are going to discuss some headphones that fit the bill.
Some of the headphones for rock & metal music
V-MODA XS
The V-MODA XS is another addition to their list of handsomely made headphones. Unlike the M-100, the ear cups have been made to shrink in size, even though the shape has been retained.
The metallic finish, the panache and the elegance- all have been retained. Also, unlike the M-80, the headband has hinges that help the ear cups to fold on the inside and into a more compact size to fit the carrying case that accompanies the headphones.
V-MODA also ensures that there is little to almost no room between the headband and the user’s head; since they believe that it brings about a more comfortable and snug fitting of the headphones for rock & metal music.
They appear fairly smaller owing to this feature and it also magnifies the comfort. There are some more added features besides the carrying case that is not only durable but also rather stylish. The cables are detachable and are Kevlar reinforced. They are also inlaid with a remote and an inline microphone and they can terminate in either ear cup. The V-MODA XS has been fancied up by adding a V-shaped cork to the ear cup that is not in use, or in other words, the ear cup that does have the cable attached to it is safe from dust. Or you could also choose to share the music by plugging in another cable.
The sound in the XS is more natural, although some of the bass feel from the original V-MODA has been retained. Vocals contain impeccable clarity, as do stringed instruments. There is just brilliant sound detailing that is evident in the V-MODA XS. More importantly, the V-MODA XS can endure some major rough handling and with two year warranty. They are a genuinely amazing pair of headphones within their price range.
Audio Technica ATH M30
The Audio Technica ATH M30 faces a lot of competition from its compatriot, the ATH M50. However, for starters the M30 weighs only 7 ounces. The M30 also swivels along only one axis unlike the M50. It does not fold flat either. But it is made to endure rough behavior. Its tenacity is apparent in its cable that is attached to the ear cup. It’s a heavy duty cable that is 11m long and terminates into an equally prominent plug. Also, the cable is not inlaid with a remote or a microphone. The ear cups are designed as open back, over the ear feature, which is likely to make the ears feel a little warm. However, they are comprehensively padded and promise a lot of comfort over long wear. The ear cups being of the over ear nature also grant a lot of noise isolation. Also, some sound is likely to bleed out with headphones for rock & metal music with the circumaural feature. The ATH M30 is directed very much at audiophiles, not only in terms of the provisions made with regards to the cable, but also the kind of sonic experiences that it promises. Clarity and balance all the way. All the ranges exude brilliant detailing and sensitivity. The 40mm neodymium drivers can pose no questions. A rich bass that is not overwhelming meets a crisp higher range. They have a ¼ inches adapter plug to plug into the home receiver. In its price range, the ATH M30 is a brilliant piece of technology.
AKG K550
The AKG K550 seems like a massive pair of headphones for rock & metal music that engulf your ears, which is true. However, irrespective of how ominous they may look, they compensate for all of it by the comfort they provide.
The evidently huge cans are padded with really comfortable foams with leatherette covering that sit snug on the ears. The K550 is also a pair of open back, circumaural headphones, which inevitably grants some noise isolation.
The noise isolation is not a feature in the headphone; just an advantage of wearing them. It also protects from bleeding out. Also, irrespective how big they are, they have really nice detailing done in terms of styling. Metallic finish and dual colours is likely to make heads turn around, besides the sheer size of it. The singular problem with the headphones is the cable, which, although perfectly durable, is very long and terminates in a 3.5mm connection. 3m long cables are cumbersome in terms of movement. That apart, it is surprising that the K550 has not found more takers. The sound is brilliantly rich and perfectly balanced. The treble extension and clarity is warm and devoid of any muddling or any hiss. It is brilliant for stringed instruments and vocals, but not so great for electro or music that requires a heavy bass.