Audeze MM-100 or Sennheiser HD 490 Pro? (First open-back for Techno production & mixing)
Hey everyone! I need some help choosing my next pair of reference headphones.
I’m currently using the Adam Audio H200 (closed-back), but to be honest, I'm not sure if I'm totally happy with the results I'm getting from them. The thing is, I've never used open-back headphones in my life, and I really want to make the switch to experience the soundstage and see if it helps with ear fatigue during longer sessions.
My main focus is producing and mixing Techno. This means I need headphones that are surgical for mixing, but at the same time can deliver the low-end and transients quickly and accurately, since the kick and rumble/bass are the soul of the genre.
After a lot of research, I've narrowed it down to two finalists, but I'm really torn:
- Audeze MM-100: Because they are planar magnetic, I see a lot of people praising the bass extension and transient speed. It seems incredible for electronic music, but I'm a bit worried about the weight and long-term comfort.
- Sennheiser HD 490 Pro: I've heard they are absurdly comfortable and excellent for mixing (very flat and analytical), plus it's great that they come with two different sets of pads. My only fear is whether they will have enough "punch" and low-end clarity to properly mix techno.
Has anyone here had the chance to test these two (or at least one of them) in an EDM/electronic music context?
I am also totally open to other recommendations! If you think there is another open-back headphone around this price point that would be better for techno, please let me know.
Also, how was your experience transitioning from closed-back directly to an open-back for the first time? Any tips or insights are highly appreciated. Thanks!