MDR-1AM2

Interesting, I also own the MSR7. See the great reviewer Tyll, from Inner Fidelity: [https://www.stereophile.com/content/incisive-audio-technica-ath-msr7](https://www.stereophile.com/content/incisive-audio-technica-ath-msr7) The sound signature of the MSR7 is pretty bright. Shows how we are all different. I can't handle them at high volumes, with the stock EQ. I found a website that posted some good EQ settings for them, and they sound *much* better to me now. (diyaudioheaven.wordpress.com). Increased the bass, adjusted the treble, etc. Not saying that I don't like treble, because these have superb treble, and very quick transient response. I also own the Sony MDR-1AM2. That headphone was developed years after the MSR7, as Sony's response to it. The 1AM2 has a warmer signature, (although the treble can still get me at times). The Sony is lighter, more comfortable, and has a better soundstage. Nevertheless, the MSR7 has more energy, and character. I still like the MSR7 more. The MSR7 responds very well to EQ. I can get strong, clean, tight bass out of them, and that excellent treble, it is just an amazing headphone, imho. One of my favorites. (Also they do sound much better with an amp, 😜)

I've always been really impressed with my Sony MDR-1am2 - have felt they punch above their price point - got mine off ebay 5 or 6 years ago and they're still going along just fine. They are easy to drive, super comfortable and IMO have a really great clear but punchy sound.

I also have a studio mic on an arm, saw [this post](https://www.reddit.com/r/headphones/comments/ho6ome/converted_my_fidelio_x2hrs_into_lowlatency/) back in 2020, copied it and haven't gone back to wired. I've switched out cans since, my current go-to's are the Sony MDR-1AM2 but still use the X2HRs when I miss the comfortable headband, but this setup lets you switch headphones on the fly or use IEMs as needed (in my case, VR). One of the FiiO receivers should run you about $70, and you can pretty much go after any of the recommended $100-150 headphones in this sub.

I like my Sony MDR 1AM2's pretty well. Lightweight, super comfortable, HUGE soundstage. Reasonable price for the value.

Most importantly pick an headset that fits nicely because we dont have the same head proportions yet alone ear shapes. Most shops have those popular headsets ready to give them a try! I think it's a bit tricky to find a pair of headphones that will be loud enough for shootings, small enough for your field recording bag, neutral enough for monitoring and confortable enough for editing so I would go for Sony MDR series that kinda checks all categories. The Audio technica that you mentionned are a pretty solid pick too ! Maybe dont go for the full 250$ as you will probable get another pair to keep at the studio a some point. On a more personnal note after 6 years working as an audio tech, I hate recording with hd25 without its modded accessories and I cannot spend hours editing on closed back headphones (buying senn HD650 was the best gear acquisition I've made). I went with DT770 for shootings and field recordings because I know its sharpness quite well but it just wont fit in any bag so mort of the time I use an old Sony mdr 1a that I know very much (not very neutral). In the end its really about knowing your headphones' freq response and been able to carry it / wear it nicely