Initial impressions of these was a bit ho hum, but in reflection that is where these headphones really shine.  No matter what you throw at them they will retain an air of dignity and restraint, and they would never do anything so vulgar as to shout in ones ear.   The overall presentation is very neutral and refined, and not unlike my HD650's in their measured and polished manner.   Treble or bass junkies these are not the headphones for you, however they will surprise you in their ability to reach the lowest of the lows, and the highest of the...

One of my favorite headphones period.  This side of the 225i's, there really is no reason to buy any Grados, the MS1's sound better and costs much less.

Being fair here with four stars as i really didnt get on with them, odd as i love the cheaper MS1's and the more expensive 225i's.

Coming from the 80i, MS1i, to the 225i they are a cut above the rest, really cannot fault them.  Well ok, the cable is like having a power cord hanging from your neck, and there not the most comfortable headphone ever made, but sonically i cannot fault them.

The headphone i compare all others to, my reference point, my grounding. Wearing the HD650's is like coming home from a trip, wrapping yourself in your dressing gown and curling up on the sofa in front of the fire. Warm and cosy, and there really is no place like home.

All lows, no highs. Only headphone i have ever heard to distort when properly amped. Just hopeless.