[andersbk]

I really need some more sound for my small studio (iBook w/MBox + Behringer UB1622FX).

The situation is like this:

Up to now I've just used some Sony earplugs og the iBook speakers, but it doesn't give any good sound.

I've only got about $200 (could stretch to $250) to buy some more equipment.

And so I wonder, what's smart to buy?
I'm going to use it for mixing audio..

I've looked at a couple of alternatives:
- Pioneer or Sony DJ Headphones - about $180
- Sony MiniStereo - $220 (Compact with cd-, kassette-player, tuner, speakers and amp) or
- JBL Invader - $125 (I love the design, could buy a decent pair of headphones in addition)

Got any advice?

[memento]

for a studio, it's up to you. combo would probably be best. For headphones, closed-ear or sealed are the best.

closed-ear headphones provide the absolute most accurate audio

speakers provide a "real world" sound that most people will hear from their stereo - and this can be very different from headphones.

[tr]

andersbk, that's a sweet setup! i have a 1604A hooked up to my G4. how are the effects on the new behringer mixers?

i'd say, get cans and speakers. use the headphones for your main mixing, then audition final mix on speakers.

never heard of the invaders, so did a search. those are really nice!!! i have set of harman champagnes in black, and those invaders look like they use the same components, only in a 4.1 setup. the champagnes sound great, and i'm sure the invaders will too.

here is my opinion, i'm sure people will disagree with me, whatever: i'd say, if you like the invaders, then get them. for a set of headphones, my pick are Sony MDR 7506. these feature closed-ear design (which i find necessary for close monitoring, and for leak-free mic recording).
i don't really like the DJ specific headphones (like the ones from Sony). first, they feel cheap, with more plastics. the 7506's seem to be bullet proof, while i've seen many a broken MDRV700DJ. also, the 700DJ's frequency response seems to emphasize bass a little too much. while that's good in a club dj setting, for accturate mixing, it just gives you false readings.
the street price for the 7506's is about $100, so add that to the invaders, and you're within budget!

tr

[andersbk]

Thanks tr,

I think i'm gonna go for that setup, the headphones look great!, i've been a little sceptic about the DJ-ones, so thanks for the tip!

And yes, the effects work great on the mixer.
I haven't gotten to use it too much, but tried it on a small live job once and it's just so nice to have the effects built-in! saves space and cables, and it's so accesible! Behringer did a great job on these!

/Anders