Most competitive games have sound cues so damn apparent, EarPods are as useful as HD 800s. There’s no direct improvement in skill with better headphones, just enjoyment.

It’s all about flavors of headphones for me. Once in a while, I want to switch the sound and EQ isn’t always available. Some headphones are excess in my lineup, but they’re there for memories or for other uses. Like one time, I sent a friend a package, and I used gen 1 Beats studios as padding for the box. That’s the most I’ve used them this year for.

I was still collecting, so I got a bunch of stuff and sold a couple of things. My flairs were purchases within the past 12 months. I collected some vintage AKGs (k141s, 240 Sextetts, 340s), a K44, and a K702 Anniversary edition (and sold my k712s as I had the k812s, but I do like them better than the 702s). I got some Sony MDR-XB500s, and some HD 545s as side pieces I use from time to time depending on my mood. I tried the Hifiman HE-X4s (amazing for its sale value, and could be all one needs if you have a solid pair). I got a used Beats Solo Pro for cheap (great noise cancelling, much better tuning albeit shouty).

And for portable listening, I got myself an iPod Classic for on-the-go. It also works on my car, inspiring me to actually fix my stereo setup in there. And just recently I got a 1st gen iPod (the Scroll Wheel) that will stay connected to my O2 amp for when I want to listen with my vintage AKGs.

I think it’s impressive that I didn’t spend much on headphones. Factoring the headphones I sold this year compared to how much I spent on headphones, I think I spent more money on both iPods. I felt incredibly lucky with some of these used listings.

OP discovering advertisements for the first time.

They know their customers. Just like the ads from “respected audiophile” brands that just show the headphone, maybe some specs, or a picture in the studio.