Guide to headphones.

Do you need to get separate headphones? 

The answer to this question is both yes and no. There are certain parameters to judge if a person needs to even go beyond that pair of earbuds that came with his/her mobile phone. 

• Do you listen to different genres of music?

• Do you wear your headphones most of the day?

• Do you think you can spot any differences while trying different headphones?

If most of these are yes, then you might want to try a new pair. As someone who oscillates between the extreme polarities of musical genres, I find that no headphone can cover them all. Its fascinating to me how different pairs can musically differ and bring variety to that same song. I am also aware that there are variations with which people perceive those sounds. So, a lot of people may find it unnecessary to use separate headphones, which is fine. 

Is using my phone okay? How much will it cost me?

Its perfectly fine to use your phone. Though it is better if you can use a DAP(Digital Audio Player) with higher bit rates, lossless files and better Digital to analog converters it is a such a hassle for the normal consumer. 

Personally I do most of my listening with my phone, which is why what I hear wont be very different from what the average person does. With Youtube and Soundcloud its indeed very hard to ignore streaming services as the primary source for media consumption. For now, I'll stick to my phone, though I hope to atleast get a DAC AMP later, in which case it will be mentioned in my blogs.

And now to address the elephant in the room (you looking at me? >_< ) yes, it will cost you. Atleast more than buying ones from the local China market or your neighborhood stationary store. Rs. 500 is the bare minimum one should spend to hear a difference. And as we go up, it just gets better. Sound, comfort, isolation, its a steady growth curve.  
So bear with me, ill set a list for my future purchase goal, so everyone can keep track. And help you see if the one you want is there too.