Looking for first pair of headphones for about $150

I'm looking for decent headphones for around $150 (around $200 with a modmic). I've never owned decent headphones, and the amount of options out there are is pretty overwhelming.

First, I've watched a lot of tek syndicate's headphone videos that highly promote open headphones, and I love the idea, but I'm going to be in a college dorm next year and probably listening to music in public, and I really don't think I can make it work. Maybe I'm overestimating how loud open headphones are, but I don't know.

A few years ago, I bought Astro's A40 headset, and they were crap. Both the mic and the headphones were very subpar, especially for the price. I ended up returning it and using the store credit on steam gift cards.

I'll be using these headphones for both listening to music (from iPhone and motherboard. I'd prefer not to need an amp) and playing games. I primarily listen to rock, jazz, and electronic music, so there isn't really a specific sound I need. I play almost all types of games.

I'm fine with buying used.

 

I think Logan mentioned these closed headphones as pretty good, but he didn't say much about them (as he focused on open headphones)

http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-Custom-One-Pro-Discontinued/dp/B008XEYT48

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-A900X-Closed-Back-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B006V386UG

http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-770-PRO-250-ohms/dp/B0006NL5SM

 

Thanks! If there's any more information needed from me, I can give it.

(I'm on steam and skype with the same username if it would be easier to communicate that way :) )

I think you're probably over estimating the amount of sound leak open headphones have.  It's really not that bad.  Take a normal pair of headphones, turn the volume to a normal listening volume, and set them on your desk.  That's about the amount of sound leak you'll get from open headphones.  I wouldn't use them in a quiet library, but other than that, I wouldn't be too concerned.

Of the closed cans you posted, the Custom One Pros would be the easiest to drive.  They are 16ohms, and while an amp would certainly bring more out of them, they will sound perfectly fine without one.  The A900X have 42ohm drivers, so they are still fairly easy to drive, but an amp would be recommended.  The DT 770 Pros you linked to are 250 ohm though.  They aren't going to sound great without an amp.  The 770 Pros do have a 32 ohm version as well, so that would be a better option for the 770s if you absolutely don't want an amp.  Though, again, an amp will bring them to life.

If you are willing to amp, you could grab a used ATH M50 for $80-$90, and pair it with a Fiio E11k for $60, or if you want a dac as well for desktop use, an extra $30 will get you the E07k.  That said, the M50 doesn't NEED to be amped either @ 38ohms, so if you're dead set against amping, then it's an option to consider and would compete unamped with the others you posted.

There are plenty of good options within your budget.  Sound is very subjective, so if you get the chance, get out to a store and listen to some cans.  See what you prefer.