[alexrose1uk]

IEMs:
Well, as I can sometimes get away with music at work, and I've fancied trying something new for a while, please spec me some IEMs at ~£30 (I'd love to spend more but I don't use them enough to justify spending £60-70)

I've currently got CX300s, they sound reasonable, but I'd agree the bass can become bloated/fatiguing, and it'd be nice to try something else. I play bass guitar and listen to rock/metal/random as well, which influences my tastes in so far as I don't want something that has NO bass or very relaxed bass, as I like a good combination of mids, bass and some treble.

Currently considering the EX-85 as a couple of guys on another forum I frequent keep mentioning them and they seem to have a fond place for many, but at £33 from the famous rainforest store they're not as cheap as they used to be.
Also seen CX300 Precision II which are meant to be upgraded better sounding CX300s [but hell if I can find any reviews!], and have been looking around at a few others, but suggestions would be well appreciated, as trying to swim through this subject can be a minefield with people going 'oh spend £70 these are much better'...which would be great if i could afford it!

Headphones:
I'm not confined as much on budget, as I use a headset more often (I can try one of these elara clip-on mics if no mic is ever an issue). I currently have some HD280 Pros I run through my Yamaha, however they're a little too neutral for me for everyday listening, although not bad for production, they can also be a bit uncomfortable and picky on head positioning.
I'd really like something thats a little more punchy and in your face with bass reproduction as the 280s go low, but they're not very forward about it, and the 280s can also sometimes be a little shrill in the top-end, I'd really like something with a smoother, more rounded sound for music listening and perhaps some gaming and the occasional film (long lead handy for this).
I house share with a friend, and have private room so open/closed is not an issue for me.

I'd considered some of the higher end Senns (595, 580 if could find any etc) but they're apparently similar in this bass relaxed sound, not to mention most mention you need a dedicated headphone amp to get the most out of them, and for someone who's 21 and paying rent they are expensive (bills/food/car/car service hit the tab!). I'd also considered the Goldring 150s at £60, but they seem to have mixed opinions, and some of the feedback mentions they also tend to be a lil bass shy, so I'm not sure whether I'd gain anything from them.
AKG, Grados etc I'll admit to not knowing a huge amount about.

[Tautitan]

Headphone-wise I can recommend the Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro 80 Ohm. I don't have the budget to buy and test many headphones to see what's best but I am very happy with the sound quality and level of bass they produce.

[alexrose1uk]

Thanks will take a look at those, anyone else have any suggestions?

[fxytimi121]

If you could afford it I would recommend the super fi 5 pro, for a grand sum or 115 quid. But for less you could look at the shure se110, but expensive though.

[leeb-1977]

Ive tried many sets of cans over the years but ultimatley always end up back at my AKG 240S. Semi closed and sound immense when put through an amp.... you DO need to amp them though to get the best out of them.

although - if you can find a set.... the Equation Audio RP21 is a good everyday set with nice punchy bass without the need for an external amp.

[Steven]

You could consider second hand IEMs. Due to their nature, as long as they have been looked after all you need to do is buy new tips and it is 'as new'

For example I purchased my Westone UM2 second hand for £120. I would also throw in the UM1 given your music taste

[Steven]

Shure just announced some new budget IEMs as well
Shure debuts colorful new $99 SE115 earphones - Engadget