DPPThrow45 t1_j1xupnw wrote on December 28, 2022 at 4:54 AM

Ear buds suck IMHO for getting details from music.

Along with that, distractions hinder it, too.

YMMV, but a good set of over the ear headphones and a non-internet connect playback mechanism would be a great start

Fluffy_Little_Fox t1_j1z8mqr wrote on December 28, 2022 at 2:36 PM

I like cheap "but still good" type stuff.

Skullcandy Ink Plus ~wired~ in-ear buds.

One Odio A71 Non-BT "Over Ear" Cans.

A nice little cheapie-cheap SD05 mini amp.

arlondiluthel t1_j1xvttp wrote on December 28, 2022 at 5:05 AM

I would make two counter-arguments: OP does mention they're using AirPod Pros, I would say that the 'phone manufacturer' Pro models (both the AirPod and Pixel Bud Pros) are very good for a beginner who is just starting out with ear training. If they had more experience and were looking to get beyond just enjoyment/understanding of music, then spring for quality, corded, over-ear headphones.

Also, internet-based playback mechanisms are fine (for beginners). Most of them have high-quality modes (I'm most familiar with Spotify because that what I use for basic day-to-day music enjoyment, and their high-quality playback is restricted to Premium members). What you don't want is one with ads.

DPPThrow45 t1_j1xwbfp wrote on December 28, 2022 at 5:09 AM

What you want is one that picks up the banjo on a LZ II song, which I haven't heard on Spotify.

arlondiluthel t1_j1xwh37 wrote on December 28, 2022 at 5:11 AM

Which song? I'll pull it up real quick and pop in my Pixel Buds Pro.

DPPThrow45 t1_j1xx4kc wrote on December 28, 2022 at 5:17 AM

Gallows Pole

arlondiluthel t1_j1xxexk wrote on December 28, 2022 at 5:20 AM

That one's on LZ III, lol. Banjo kicks in at 1:05, clear as a bell.

At 2:09, once the drums and bass come in stronger, I can hear another banjo part as well.