Sometimes, what you want is a simple, dedicated bit of kit that does one thing, and does it well.

These headphones aren't packed with fripperies that push up the price. We wanted to test nice big cans that simply played your music as well as can possible. Not only that, but we wanted to set a realistic budget so that you're not thinking about dropping hundreds of pounds just to listen to [insert cool band you like here].

We went for big over- or on-ear headphones this time round; they're comfortable to wear for hours at a time, and there's plenty of space for chunky drivers that are usually inexpensive (and bassier) compared to the miniature marvels used for in-ear headphones.

The good news is that we've found the perfect set of audio-focussed headphones - and they don't break the bank. Which ones? Read on…

How we selected...

Usually, we're very careful to select stuff that's specifically built for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch; with headphones, this often means in-line remotes and mics. Here, though, we just wanted pure 'phones focussed on music. We set the target price point at around £75 from an online retailer.

What we tested...

JVC HA-NC250 - £79

JVC ha-nc250

Philips SHO9560/10 - £70

Philips sho9560/10

Sennheiser HD 518 - £84

Sennheiser hd 518

Shure SRH550DJ - £59

Shure srh55

Sony MDR-ZX700 - £70

Sony mdr-zx700