SR 60, 80, iPod

[LeftofCool]

I'm getting an iPod for Christmas and recently broke my old headphones. I did some research and found the Grado SR 60's or the 80's as the best bet for me. My question, however, deals with how well either one would function with an iPod. I have scannned over this forum and many others, and have found conflicting opinions. Some say the 80's are too refined for portable mp3 players while others say they're just right. Some say that the iPod can't even drive the 80's while others say it can with ease. The 80's are supposed to produce better bass than the 60's, which is why I'm considering the 80's over the 60's. Which one would you guys recommend. Also, if the 80 is too refined for portables, would a portable amp make a difference? I've read that it would, but I have not done any research on amps and their importance to headphones, yet. If I needed one, what would you recommend?

[markw]

Chances are that the differences are so slight that it all boils down to a personal preference. Odds are that you will be more than pleased with either one.

[plextor guy]

No issues with the ipod (a 2nd gen) being able to drive them. My only gripe is with the sr80's design. The same can be said of the 60's. Thick, inflexible cabling that you can never quite forget about and that seems always in the way or catching on something. They're somewhat uncomfortable on the head too. I rarely use them anymore only because of the horrible ergonomics. It's ashame because I don't know of a better sounding headphone for the money than the 80's. If you don't have a problem with the ergonomics, you'll find the iPod and 60's or 80's a good match.

[ericl]

I set my girlfriend up with this combo. She really likes it, it sounds good. Only issue with the Grados is thy're not real portable. So she looks kinda silly using them at the gym.

-Eric

[LeftofCool]

Thanks for the replies. Would an amp bring out more in the 80's with the iPod or a CD player, or would it matter much?

[ericl]

I have used these combos:
iPod (using the docks line-out) >> total bithead headphone amp >> sennheiser 497 & grado sr60 = fantastic sound at the office

using the line out and a headphone amp really improves the sound of the iPod. It becomes amazingly neutral and musical. Very clear and clean sound. Not to mention that the headphones also come alive with a separate amp. You don't need a headphone amp, the headphone out on the ipod gives very satisfying sound, but I think that it is the weakest part of the iPod. You just have to decide if its worth it to you spend another $200 or so on a headphone amp. Be sure you use the line-out if you use an external amp of any kind.

-Eric

[LeftofCool]

I will be traveling with these things if I get them. How do they stack up against the Koss PortaPro and the Senny PX100 or 200 in your guys' opinion?