Ok, although new here I am an avid visitor and I have read a plethora of reviews. Although, I find myself stuck. I am going to try to keep this as short as possible but I find it necessary to give a background of myself to help with a solid recommendation. I might get a bit of flame for what I'm about to say, but it's just my personal experience.
I wouldn't consider myself a fanboy at all but I aesthetics are important to me. I don't want ugly speakers regardless as to how good they may sound. I went through pages and pages of reviews for headphones and tried so hard not to fall into the Dre Beats obsession. I wound up purchasing many brands between sure, bose, Astro, and many others and I still think my Beats by Dre HD are the best fit FOR ME. I really wanted to like others better and the reason I mention this is because I know how hated they are which leads me to my other points. I am a rapper and make music, but am not the engineer. I tried several reference monitors and nothing really blew my mind. I recently went to go check out the Bose C20s and really liked the way they sounded, but reading some audiophile threads has me hesitant to buy them at the moment. Because like I said, I am not a fan boy, however, considering the mixed reviews for other alternatives I find it necessary to ask for help with my specific needs.
I am an avid PC gamer who will be using these for playing games, listening to music and watching Netflix movies and shows. I use my headphones for intense play and communicating but want something with quality for when it's less intense and I don't want to wear my beloved A50s. The music I listen to is pretty much only Hip Hop, R&B with a touch of alternative. I like vocals a lot and music such as Woodkid (not sure what genre that is). I don't want a sub woofer considering most of my listening will come from me sitting in my battle station and with modern technogy I feel it is not necessary unless going for a home theater set up. My budget is $250 and for my needs, I think that is plenty with no need to stretch it. I heard some things about A2s, C20s and other but also read a lot of inconsistencies. I've heard the C20s in person like I said and thought they sounded great and heard Bose reprieved themselves with this product. I also can't tell if the bad reviews are just hate for the company and not the product. I love base and what other people might feel is muddy, might sound better to me than flatter, more closer to intended alternatives.
I hope you geniuses can help me without making it too confusing or brand argumentative.
Thanks in advanced. If you need more information let me know.
