Much-maligned around Head-Fi the audiophile community, the Beats by Dr Dre Solo is neither tuned nor marketed in a way that would appeal to audiophiles.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50 is the aging flagship of Audio-Technica’s extensive range of DJ headphones, interest in which has been unwavering for years.

Whether at the street price or at full retail, the Panasonic RP-HTF600 is an excellent value. The sound quality is superior to anything I’ve heard in the price range, with plentiful bass impact taking almost nothing away from the clean, detailed sound and spacious presentation.

The build quality, sound, and comfort make the Audio-Technica ATH-M30 a great all-rounder at home and on the go

First introduced in 1984, the Koss PortaPros have been a definitive staple of the portable headphones market for 25 years. They have survived through multiple model-line changes and their drivers have become the basis of the SportaPro and KSC55 street-style headphones and the KSC35/KSC50 clip-ons.

An open-box pair of these cost me $5.59 including shipping, but don’t let the miniscule price tag deceive you – the JVC HA-S150 Flats are very good headphones in their own right.

The Beyerdynamic DT1350 is a high-end portable headphone done right. Superb build quality and unprecedented isolation meet sound quality that can rival the best portable headphones I’ve heard and many full-size sets.