Have tried and used various headphones for CW and phone work but they always sound a bit odd or noisy. Finally broke down and got some nice headphones that are specifically designed for radio communication work. Kenwood HSD-5 at about $100
Great reviews on eHam and elsewhere. They are designed specifically to narrow the audio range, unlike the stereo audio headphones I have been using. Clarity is much better and they are reasonably confortable. General blurb: Kenwood HS-5 deluxe communications headphones are engineered and tuned for radio communications purposes to provide distinctive voice sound (150-4000 Hz -6 dB). They are supplied with removable foam-type ear pads. They are also supplied with a second set of leatherette pads with a cavity in the center. It is easy to change the pads. Black metal and plastic. 8 Ohms. With ΒΌ inch, mono plug and 6.6 foot (2m) non-coiled cord.
Because it has a 1/4 mono plug I use a short adapter cable which works great.
AF5NP 