The iBasso DX50 is a digital audio player (DAP) which is very popular and is mostly recognized for its excellent sound and sturdy construction. To really know the power of this DAP, it is going to be a must to combine it with right headphones. The ranking of headphones for the iBasso DX50 will be made in this thorough review taking into account sound quality, comfort, design, and price as the main and important aspects. At the end of this review, you will have a clear insight into which headphones will be the best match for your iBasso DX50, thus, your listening experience will be enhanced.
Criteria for Selection
Let’s first clarify the criteria that were applied for choosing the best headphones for the iBasso DX50 before we get into specific headphone models:
Sound Quality: The main point is to what extent the headphones will be able to copy the very high-fidelity audio output of the DX50.
Comfort: Listening sessions can go on for hours, so comfort becomes an important factor as it is the only way bringing a pleasant experience.
Design and Build Quality: The headphones’ robustness and aesthetic are factors contributing to their overall worth.
Price: A selection of price points will be included in order to accommodate different budgets.
Compatibility: The headphones should be all good with the DX50 when it comes to impedance and sensitivity.
Best Over-Ear Headphones
1. Sennheiser HD 650
Sound Quality: The Sennheiser HD 650 has a strong reputation for its balanced sound signature which has a slight upward trend in midrange making the HD 650 a go-to for vocal music and the instrumental which is, usually, the more detailed part of the music. The wide soundstage combined with excellent imaging brings out the very best in high-resolution audio files; thus, making it a perfect match for the iBasso DX50.
Comfort: The plush earpads along with a padded headband are characteristics of the HD 650 headphones and hence these features make them a clear winner when it comes to long listening sessions. Moreover, the open-back design tends to alleviate any pressure that might build up around the ears.
Design and Build Quality: The HD 650 is a very durable headphone and has a classic design that will never go out of style. The open-back design is great for sound quality, but the drawback is that it doesn’t work in noisy environments.
Price: HD 650, which is about $400, is definitely a performance winner, although it belongs to the higher price range.
Compatibility: the HD 650, being a 300 ohm headphone, might not work very well with low power output sources, though the DX50 is well enough powered for simple listening.
2. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Sound Quality: The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x receives great views regarding its sound quality. It is clear and detailed with a little bass emphasis. The headphone provides a good balance that is even-supportive to the iBasso DX50’s neutral output.
Comfort: The ATH-M50x has soft earpads and an adjustable headband ensuring comfort no matter how long the use is. The closed-back design also works as a good external noise isolator.
Design and Build Quality: The ATH-M50x, which is known for its durability, has a foldable design, thus making it portable and easy to carry. The headphones come in different colors, hence allowing some personalization.
Price: The ATH-M50x is priced at about $150, thus being a more economical choice but without losing quality in the sound.
Compatibility: The ATH-M50x has a low impedance of 38 ohms, thus perfectly matching with DX50 and giving superb performance without the extra need for an amplifier.
3. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
Sound Quality: The DT 770 Pro from Beyerdynamic gives a sound that is complete and dynamic, with a bass that is one of the main characteristics. The headphones produce a very clear and precise sound that makes them a great partner for the DX50’s high-resolution output.
Comfort: The headphones come with gentle velour earpads and a cushioned headband, thus providing very good comfort for prolonged periods of use. Besides, the closed-back design does an excellent job of blocking outside noise.
Design and Build Quality: The DT 770 Pro is characterized by its tough construction and professional look, which, in turn, make it a reliable for daily use over a long period.
Price: The DT 770 Pro, which costs around $180, is certainly one of the most affordable products given its performance level.
Compatibility: Sold in various impedance kinds (32 ohms, 80 ohms, and 250 ohms), the users have the power to select the one that fits their requirements the most. The 32-ohm version is excellent for DX50.
Best In-Ear Monitors (IEMs)
1. Shure SE846
Sound Quality: The Shure SE846 is very talented and provides a great experience with its wide and clear sound. The four-element driver provides an even and deeply engaging sound that is just right for the DX50’s remarkable sensitivity.
Comfort: This high-end model comes with many different ear tips to guarantee that anyone gets a secure and comfortable fit. The design is such that there is good noise isolation and thus it would be suitable in places with a lot of noise.
Design and Build Quality: These IEMs are the most reliable in terms of durability, thanks to their robust design and detachable cables that make replacements effortless. The transparent housings immerse them in a distinct and fashionable appearance.
Price: The price of the SE846 is about $1000, which is a premium choice, yet its performance convinces that the price is worth it for the most discerning audiophiles.
Compatibility: Coming with a low impedance of 9 ohms, the SE846 is easily powered, and pairing it with DX50 results in a great quality audio output.
Best On-Ear Headphones
1. Grado SR80e
Sound Quality: The Grado SR80e presents a vibrant and immersive sound signature with excellent mids and highs. The wide-open-back design gives a wide soundstage, and the listening experience with the iBasso DX50 is even more enjoyable.
Comfort: SR80e comes with foam earpads that provide comfort but are not everybody’s choice for the long listening period. The lightweight design minimizes the fatigue.
Design and Build Quality: Grado headphones have always been recognized for their vintage style and solid construction. The SR80e provides not only a different look but also a durable build.
Price: The SR80e is an impressive value for its sound quality selling for around $100.
Compatibility: The SR80e has a 32-ohm impedance that makes it a good DX50 partner in a way that they deliver great performance without an amplifier.
2. Bowers & Wilkins P5 Series 2
Sound Quality: The Bowers & Wilkins P5 Series 2 produces a rich and warm sound signature with a very nice balance of all frequencies. The sound quality makes a good match with the iBasso DX50 and gives very pleasant listening experience.
Comfort: The P5 Series 2 has luxurious leather ear caps and a non-slip adjustable headband which makes it very comfortable even for prolonged use. The on-ear design is therefore compact and portable.
Design and Build Quality: The P5 Series 2 is extremely durable and at the same time stylish thanks to its premium build quality and fashionable design. The choice of materials for its construction is a factor that adds to its charm.
Price: The P5 Series 2 at around $200 is a good deal considering its performance and build quality.
Compatibility: The P5 Series 2 has a low impedance of 22 ohms making it an easy drive and perfect pairing with the DX50 resulting in superb sound quality.
3. AKG Y50
Sound Quality: The AKG Y50 has a precise and thorough sound signature, with a bit of bass enhancement. Its sound quality goes very well with the iBasso DX50, thus giving a balanced listening experience.
Comfort: The Y50’s soft earpads and an adjustable headband make sure of comfort even in long listening sessions. Its lightweight design also facilitates portability and easy carrying.
Design and Build Quality: The Y50 is beautiful and strong, though robust yet stylish. The foldable design complements its portability.
Price: The AKG Y50 is approximately $100 and offers a remarkable deal in terms of sound quality and construction.
Compatibility: The Y50 mixer with the DX50, with the impedance of 32 ohms, is the perfect couple giving great audio performance without the additional need for amplifiers.
Best Wireless Headphones
The iBasso DX50 does not have integrated Bluetooth, nevertheless, a considerable portion of users prefers wireless headphones for convenience. You can use a Bluetooth transmitter with the DX50 to eliminate the wire.
1. Sony WH-1000XM4
Sound Quality: The Sony WH-1000XM4 is recognized by many as a top performer in the sound quality department, thanks to its well-balanced and detailed sound signature. Active noise cancellation (ANC) is one of the best in the business, allowing the listening experience to remain great even in noisy environments.
Comfort: WH-1000XM4 comes with very soft earpads and a light body which altogether provide comfort even in long listening sessions. The headband can be adjusted so that it is perfectly fit for heads of various sizes.
Design and Build Quality: Modern and sleek, the WH-1000XM4 is a stylish and a durable product in the same package. The quality of the build is exceptional, and the use of top-notch materials can be seen throughout the device.
Price: With a price tag of about $350, the WH-1000XM4 is considered as one of the most expensive headphones but its performance and features justify the price that comes along with it.
Compatibility: The WH-1000XM4 connects easily with the DX50 using a Bluetooth transmitter and thus provides a perfect high-quality wireless audio experience.
2. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Sound Quality: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II has a neutral and smooth sound signature with a slight increase in bass. The ANC is very effective making the headphones suitable for use in noisy conditions.
Comfort: The QuietComfort 35 II is a headset that is known for providing comfort, it has tender ear pads and a lightweight design. The headset is made for long use without giving rise to tiredness.
Design and Build Quality: The QC35 II presents an elegant design and has a robust build quality. In addition, it is made more portable with the folding design which allows easy carrying.
Price: Available for approximately $300, the QC35 II is a good investment if you consider sound quality and ANC capabilities.
Compatibility: Using a Bluetooth transmitter, the QC35 II works great with the DX50, thus delivering a superb wireless audio experience.
3. Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 3
Sound Quality: The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 3 gives a rich and detailed sound character with a frequency response that is well balanced throughout the range. The ANC is quite efficient but doesn’t match the strength of the Sony or Bose models.
Comfort: The Wireless 3 model comes with the softest leather ear pads and an adjustable headband that will keep you comfortable even if you listen for hours on end. The over-ear design also contributes to good noise isolation.
Design and Build Quality: The Sennheiser Wireless 3 is a great investment in both durability and aesthetics due to its premium build and stylish looks. The use of high-end materials makes it feel just as luxurious as it is.
Price: Selling at about $400, the Wireless 3 option is high-end but still it offers great sound performance and top-notch build quality.
Compatibility: Using a Bluetooth transmitter, the Wireless 3 pairs great with the DX50, providing an excellent quality wireless audio experience.
Best Budget Headphones
If you are looking for budget-friendly headphones, you can choose several options that will offer good performance without having to spend a lot.
1. Koss Porta Pro
Sound Quality: The sound signature of the Koss Porta Pro is characterized as warm and engaging, featuring a proper balance of bass, mids, and highs. It certainly is a good quality product sound-wise.
Comfort: The Porta Pro has foam ear pads and an adjustable headband that give nice-fitting comfort. Also, its light weight allows wearing it for a long time without any discomfort.
Design and Build Quality: The Porta Pro has a vintage design with a sturdy construction that makes it both fancy and long-lasting. Furthermore, the foldable design increases its portability.
Price: The Porta Pro retail price is around $50 which is very reasonable considering its sound quality and comfort.
Compatibility: The DX50 can pair with the Porta Pro easily due to its 60-ohm impedance, and it will perform well even without an amplifier.
2. Superlux HD668B
Sound Quality: The sound of the Superlux HD668B is characterized by being very detailed and well balanced. Besides this, the headphone has a very wide soundstage and good imaging. The headphone is an excellent choice for budget-conscious audiophiles who want to enjoy top-notch sound.
Comfort: The HD668B has soft earpads and an adjustable headband at the same time that guarantees comfort for prolonged use. The semi-open design gives a reasonable amount of isolation and a natural sound.
Design and Build Quality: The HD668B has a strong build quality and an unpretentious design; thus, it is both durable and functional. It is convenient because of the detachable cable.
Price: At a price point of around $40, the HD668B is an excellent choice because its sound quality and construction are comparable to more expensive headphones.
Compatibility: The DX50 and the HD668B make a good match—the latter’s 56-ohm impedance guarantees decent performance without extra amplication required.
3. Monoprice Modern Retro
Sound Quality: The Monoprice Modern Retro is characterized by a warm and smooth sound signature with bass, mids and highs well balanced. Impressive sound quality at its price level.
Comfort: The Modern Retro has soft earpads plus the lightweight design which assures comfort even during prolonged listening sessions. The over-ear type of design ensures good noise isolation.
Design and Build Quality: The Modern Retro is a throwback to the past with its design and at the same time, very durable. The foldable design is an additional aspect that makes it easy to carry.
Price: For the price of around $30, the Modern Retro is indeed a good buy in terms of sound quality and comfort.
Compatibility: The Modern Retro’s impedance of 32 ohms makes it a perfect pair with the DX50, giving decent performance without an amplifier.
Conclusion
The selection of the best headphones for the iBasso DX50 is a question of personal taste and comes down to several essential factors such as budget, listening habits, and feature preferences. There are great alternatives to meet your needs no matter if you are looking for the traditional over-the-ear, on-ear, in-ear, or wireless headphones.
The headphones that are among the top choices for providing premium sound and comfort are the Sennheiser HD 650, Shure SE846, and Sony WH-1000XM4. On the other hand, if you want to buy the most affordable headphones which still perform well, Koss Porta Pro, Superlux HD668B, and Monoprice Modern Retro are the ones to consider.
In the end, it is all about the headphones that give you the most pleasurable listening experience that are the best for the iBasso DX50. You can easily identify the right pair of headphones that will elevate your music listening by weighing sound quality, comfort, design, and compatibility with the DX50.