I have had my Sennheiser headphones for over 9 years and they are still awesome. No problems internally or externally. Therefore, I can highly recommend this brand and the old model of HD280Pro headphones.
I originally purchased the headphones so I could listen to music without disturbing anyone else in our home. We all have different sleeping hours and schedules. All too often, someone is sleeping when I would like to listen to music.
I have also discovered how wonderful the headphones are when I want to watch a movie on my laptop that other family members aren't interested in seeing, or hearing.
It is not unusual for several of us to be working in the same room on different projects. Sometimes noise, even music we all enjoy, can be disturbing when one is trying to concentrate. The Sennheiser headphones are essential to a happy "work" environment for everyone.
The Sennheiser HD280Pro Headphones
I didn't expect excellence when I purchased my headphones. The low price tag made me think they would be acceptable. However, I have been thrilled with the quality & clarity of sound, as well as, the noise isolation they provide.
Sennheiser HD280PRO Headphones
(old model - best model)Check PriceWhen I am using my headphones, I can't hear other things going on in the same room, unless I uncover one ear. Therefore, if another family member is talking on the phone, I am not disturbing them and they are not disturbing me. Previously, I had to mute my music or movie if someone was on the phone. It was the polite thing to do, but it often left me having to listen to one side of a conversation I wasn't the lest bit interested in hearing.
Other family members can't hear what is being "piped" through my headphones either. Therefore, their concentration is not being disturbed by whatever I am playing. I can even listen to instructional videos without bothering anyone else.
The Sennheiser headphones are also comfortable to wear. The padded earpieces allow me to wear them for hours without feeling pressure or pain. Even if I am wearing my glasses, the glasses arm is only slightly pressed against my face or ears. Not enough to hurt.
I plug my headphones into my laptop, but they could also be used with iPads, Android tablets, stereos, recording equipment, or whatever device uses a 1/4" plug.
Sure, you could pay a lot more for headphones, but I highly doubt you would get noticeably better headphones for sound or comfort.
One note, I do have the "old model". I have read there is a new model available, but I cannot personally comment on them. Their reviews would lead me to believe you would probably want to buy the "old model" if you are interested in purchasing the Sennheiser HD280Pro Headphones while they are still available.