AKG K 701 (White)

These are some of the most of excellent cans I have ever heard. I am a big Grado fan, with the famed SR-80's being my first foray into Hi-Fi. I wanted to upgrade, my hobby has become a frenzied passion. I had heard that Sennheisers were dark and organic sounding, with many mixed reviews on whether they excelled with all genres, including rock. I finally got a chance to hear the fabled HD-650, their premium model, and I liked it, right, I just "liked" a 300 dollar purchase. So I gave them a chance and while doing so, I read about the new K701's. Well to be honest, I don't know if I'll need to purchase another headphone for some time.
They are fantastic, with as promised phenomenal imaging and instrument separation, able to handle complex passages and layering with ease. Their overall balance and transparent sound add nothing to the music that wasn't already intended. They are REALLY comfortable and never get warm due to the fabric on the earpads. (I live in Phoenix by the way!!!) They feel so light on your head. They could use a scunch more bass impact for rock genre, but it is no dealbreaker and I prefer it to the Sennheisers slightly boomy bass presence. The highs are nice and clear with not a trace of sibilance and the detail and resolution is astounding, especially with SACD's. Their most excellent attribute has to be their midrange prowess however, which AKG is renowned for. It is liquid and really comes alive, instead of being buried in the mix.
So, the only "cons" I can muster are the fact that they are very unforgiving of crappy music, garbage in, garbage out. Also, if you do not own an amp, well you had better start shopping, don't even bother trying to run these out of a DAP or computer sound card, they are far too power hungry. Overall, though, these are seriously great headphones that sound terrific with all genres of music and have an engaging sound with a good, solid amp.