[yukihiro]

I agree that this mod is essential for about 90% of the people out there. The clamping force didn't bother me, but the weird shape that the headband makes while on the head was extremely awkward for a small set of headphones. The sides stuck out way too much before the mod. I don't even know if I would consider this a mod. It's more of an adjustment since the rods bend so easily.

As for putting something inside the earpads to make them more comfortable. I tried it and thought it made a positive difference at first, but realized that it was a lot more comfortable without anything done to it.

All of these "mods" are pretty much reversible so trying them doesn't do any permanent damage.