Best Headphones For the Avid Listener

[flamingswordsman]

First off, toms hardware really needs to create a category for audio products. They don't even really have anything for monitors, and displays.
Now to the question. I listen to lots of techno and pop. With a little bit of disposable income in hand I feel the need to get a new set of cans. I am really open to any brand, with no hostility toward who makes it. I have $170 for the headphones, so any answers please stay in that range. I really could not give less of a *** about how they look, but comfort is definitely important to me. Above all, i want clear, balanced, great sound.

I have been looking at the ATH-M50, ATH-PRO700MK2, and V-MODA Crossfade LP. I am open to suggestions. Are these good headphones? Which of them is the best? Which is the worst? if these are not the best, what headphones are?

I am open to any suggestion, and further questions.

If possible, any headphones you suggest, provide a link for where i can get the for a good price.

as an example:

ATH-M50
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATHM50S-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B004ZG9TMA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1340950938&sr=8-3&keywords=m50

V-Moda Crossfade LP
http://www.amazon.com/V-MODA-Crossfade-Over-Ear-Headphones-Stealth/dp/B006FE0NXO/ref=sr_1_7?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1340951044&sr=1-7&keywords=crossfade

thanks in advance for all answers provided

 

[flamingswordsman]

In addition to what i said above, features like detachable cords, and coiled cords are a definite plus. I put every I buy under hard use, so build quality must be very high.

Once again thanks for any responses