All right I made my decision!
Hey everyone,
Once again thanks for the suggestions. As I mentioned I was looking for over-the-ear or on-ear headphones with microphone. I decided on getting the B&W p5s.
A quick mini-review. I listened to One Republic - Secrets as it had a good sampling of different sounds (string music, somewhat punchy drums, vocals):
B&W: By far the p5s were the most well built and looked the most refined. The sound was also the most neutral out of all of them (though to me it wasn't as bass heavy as I was used to; but I have yet to try listening to a song with punchy bass like a techno or trance track. I expect that to work pretty nicely). The fit is quite snug but no problems w/ those who wear glasses. I do see a concern with them warming my ears if I am outside in a humid summer day.
Beats by Dr. Dre: These headphones are obviously geared towards hip hop music, with the lower and higher frequencies emphasized at the cost of poor midrange. Also, build quality sucks. Even the Apple employee that helped out said so and he mentioned a bunch of returned headphones due to damage.
V-Moda Crossfade: I must've had a defective sample because it sounded VERY muddy in the midrange; this was notable in the chorus. The worst sound quality out of the three. But if not, I am surprised they can sell them @ $250.
Bose QC15: I didn't like how noise-cancelling had to be activated to use this. Otherwise the sound is similar to the Dres.
Hope my thoughts help!
