Headphones for a Laptop


I need to get a pair of headphones for in home use on my laptop, portability is not necessary. I'm looking for the best sound and comfort for a budget of $200 to $400. I would prefer one of the Audeze models but I cannot currently afford them.
I mainly listen to rock (acoustic and electric), blues and jazz. I'd like a pair that excel in the midrange, have natural but textured bass that's not too boomy and a treble that is not too bright.
I've read many reviews and posts on several headphone sites and have narrowed my choices to two but have not heard either:

Audiotechnica ATH m-50
Phiaton ms400

So. I'm looking for feedback on:
1. The sound qualities of these headphones from owners or those that have heard them.

2. Suggestions of others to consider based on my preferences.

3. Suggestions on other things I can do to get the best sound quality from a laptop, such as headphone amps or external dacs.

Thanks
noble100
I second the Nuforce uDac considering your budget. Also, the less expensive Grado headphones are a great value, such as the sr60 or sr80, and mate well with the uDac.
If you want to use your headphones directly from laptop, less likely you'll need to spend $$$ for these.
I believe that Audiotechnica ATH m50 is great choice, but they might not be comfortable.
I'd recommend Sennheiser EH350 for direct to laptop or to iphone/pad/pod.
If you plan to purchase headphone amp, than the choices are certainly different.
I believe the OP wants the quality headphones that he can run directly from laptop without any amp in between, but please, correct me if I am wrong.

I use Koss PortaPro all the time, great bargain, especially if you put extra pads on them, so you create a little more distance between drivers and your ears. To me, they are very hard to beat.

I am not sure about AKG K702, dont think they will work at their potentials at all. You have to check easy drive headphones only, not Sennheiser HD650 or something, if you know what I mean.