Because the Axiom search sucks and I can't find the thread that most probably answers my questions.

My daughter needs a new set of headphones.

Budget: approximately $100
Use: music and movies on her laptop

Sound: She used that audiopile word, but I know she really means high quality audio with a neutral presentation.

She will be using them without an amp.

I'll put in a plug for my current favs, which I know several others hate for having too much bass: Audio Technica ATH-M50s.

Koss Porta Pro, well below budget but with really good sound.

Fred, a few months ago I bought these for a gift and also listened to them. Well within your budget and a great bargain.

How do you do that John? I found an old review of this headphone from 2009 that raved about them, but there seemed to be a lot of contradicting opinion on them on the rest of that site that left me wondering.

Of course, the 50 hour break in had me concerned as well. Based on your recommendation I will ignore those concerns.

Fred - take a hard look at these. I have had a set for several years and they are stupid good for the price. They fold down into a small carrying pouch and are comfortable for long sessions. I use them with my iPod when I take a walk.

I like the Koss Porta Pros, too.

Well, CV clinches it. Now I felt the need to put them in my Amazon basket!

Fred, those reviews that you mention probably are of the older 681 rather than the 681 EVO(out around a year). The EVO has a smoother treble response.

It was actually the 668B John. I read a few reviews of the Evo and even the less flattering reviews suggest they are an outstanding value.

I'll pass the recommendation for the Portapro to my daughter as well, but the Evo seems like a solid step up for not a lot more money. Both seem to be excellent values.

The Porta Pros are some seriously ugly headphones. I don't think any owner of them has gotten laid since the '80s.

Oh, they're for your daughter... Carry on.

Yeah, Chris, that's why Ray likes them so much.

Anyway, I'm interested in some closed-back headphones. I have various cheap earbuds that I like fine, and my Grados are just dandy, too.

Do I need to spend $100-150, or is there something less expensive that I might enjoy?

I use the Etymotic HF5 for noise cancelling headphones.

http://www.etymotic.com/ephp/hf5.html

Tom, no need to pay that much; these should be fine.

Thank you, John. You always come through. I was envisioning a circumaural arrangement, though.

The Shure 440 and Sennheiser 280 seem to fit the bill, but you all often have excellent low cost suggestions.

I much prefer the AudioTechnicas to the Sennheiser 280s, for what it's worth. More money, but much better quality.