Grado Prestige Series SR-60i

Pros: Sound quality, and Price

Cons: They apply more pressure to the ears than othes cans

Summary: The Grado SR-60s are fantastic! I have found that these headphones offer incredibly accurate sound with clear highs and sufficient, but not overpowering, lows. The detail in sound is phenomenal. The listener will enjoy very subtle differences in tone color and dynamic level, and the sound always comes across naturally.

The SR-60s (and SR-80s) are perfect for portable listening devices, such as iPods, because the headphones present the best sound possible for players that lack an amplifier or a powerful driver. More expensive headphones with more power, detail, and precision are just wasted (and in some cases, don't even sounds as good) on portable devices.

On the downside, I find that my SR-60s cease being comfortable after about an hour or so because they apply pressure to my ears. But I think this is a very small price to pay given the quality of sound and the price. (And sadly I rarely have much more than an hour at a time to listen anyway.) Plus, these cans are incredibly durable. I've used mine consistently for six years now, and they've held up perfectly.

Just a word of caution: Grado headphones are "open air." While this contributes to their fantastic sound, be aware that people sitting near you will hear your music. These may not be the best headphones for people on the go. Besides, they are not the most portable headphones anyway.

The bottom line: (1) If you are an audiophile who primarily listens to your music on a portable device, these headphones, or perhaps the SR-80s(provide more powerful bass output), are the best on the market. Your iPod doesn't even allow you to fully enjoy these cans, let alone more expensive ones. (2) If you primarily listen on more powerful systems, these cans are still incredible, and highly recommendable for the price. But if you have extra cash and are looking for something even higher end, you might want to consider Grado's other products.