Samson SR850 Semi-Open Studio Reference Headphones

 (22 customer reviews)

I picked up a set of these recently and have found that I really enjoy owning them. They borrow a lot from classic AKG headphones in terms of styling and construction but the sound is not the same. Doing some research online, you will find that the drivers are a different diameter than AKG's. They have a little more high end emphasis than the AKG K240's (also own). The high end is something that K240's lack, or rather don't exaggerate. While you can tell that Samson cuts some corners on the SR850 (how could they NOT?) the build quality is excellent and likely to impress most people considering the price point. The auto adjusting strap works just great. It allows the headphones to instantly adjust to anyone's head size. Thanks AKG! The earpads are very comfortable and they sit off of your ears enough that most peoples lobes aren't going to touch the vinyl or be bothered. The earpads will smell for a little while, but they are quite nice. I've had no problems leaving these on for hours...Read more

I initially did a review on theses SR850 but I wasn't happy with it because I haven't burned them in. Since burn in the SAMSONs smooth out and much like the AD700s. The Samson highs smoothed out and now is coheasive with the other ranges.. I am loving the sound of this can.. Definately one of those phones you must have in your collection.//.

Truely Dynamic these phones have the overall BEST sound quality I have heard for GAMING online. Even over the Audio Technica AD700..If you are a gamer and use directional sound enhancement with sound cards and or amp. Try this phone out..It produces the most accurate sound I have heard in game and the best positional sounds even over the AD700s.. The SR850 is superior due to it having a wide sound stage with BASS notes that let you know you are in a GAME.. IT does not skimp on any type of sounds in the game...Directional sound more accurate to my ears vs AD700s as I find the AD700s to have too much of an open sound sometimes causing...Read more

I'll keep the review short. I consider myself an audiophile having bought a good amount of expensive gear, and these headphones can at the very least compete with headphones the likes of the ATH-M50 and Denon D1100. They are clear, balanced, yet bassy and sparkly all at once. The best value in headphones I know of.