Those DT 770s look pretty good. He doesn't like iems, so those wouldn't work. Thanks for your response! I wound up ordering these: Koss ProDJ200
They seemed sturdy, and I liked that it comes with 2 detachable cables and has a mic, although I may need to get another cable that will work with an android phone. I think it also comes with a case that might fit in a backpack without being too bulky. The jury is out on whether such a thing would get much actual use, haha. Kids these days are modding them out with different readily available ear cushions that apparently improve comfort and even sound to some degree. As they are, the cushions apparently are right on the cusp between over and on the ear. Even with these two improvements entire cost is less than 100, with all the features I (or my son claimed he) wanted. I also ran across a forum post by a drummer who found them to have just the right balance between suppressing outside sounds and allowing enough drums in so as not to encourage "artificial" balance that could be detrimental to technique. A fine point for sure, but could be helpful.
Hopefully they will sound OK
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007CNC79A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
thx again for the feedback!
