Sony's studio headphones are seriously underrated. I suspect because they aren't marketed to the hip and trendy crowd. They actually look pretty ugly (like a 1970s reject) but they work so freaking well.

I've had mine for twenty years, no issues, no frays, and I'd replace them with other Sony studio headphones if something were to happen.

The cord is a beast. I'm not worried about it failing.

Yep. The MDR-7506 and the similar Sony MDR-V6 are stellar choices. Might as well listen to the music on the same headphones that were likely used when they recorded it.

I love my MDR-V6s (one for home and work). You really hear everything and (tight) Bass. Comfortable too. Durable, though I've only had mine for 10 years (GP 18 years... wow)

My only gripe is the material they use for the padding degrades after 5 or 6 years. Its super easy to replace however. I like the coiled cord too. I think the "Pro"MDR-7507 which have the same form factor cost the same as the V-6s now.

They're also the (review site) Wirecutter's best $150 (although street price is cheaper) headphones.

http://thewirecutter.com/reviews/the-best-150-over-ear-headp...

It's a classic model, used a lot in the TV/studio industry too.

And here's (offbeat but interesting and knowledgable photo gear reviewer) Ken Rockwell's review:

http://kenrockwell.com/audio/sony/mdr-7506.htm

AT M50x, M40x is another solid choice for around $150.

I've also done the removable cable mod[1] on one of my pairs and it works great. I use them for both listening and gaming now because I can attach a cable with a boom mic on it, or I can switch it out for the stock cable for listening normally, or even a short cable for the rest of the time.

[1] http://www.head-fi.org/t/606937/sony-mdr-v6-detachable-cable...