I am on the fence regarding cables, but as a scientist I hate to see the results of a study misrepresented. While Tyll's measurements found nothing audible, he does indicate "I've got enough experience measuring things that I know measuring the differences cables make on my headphone measurement...

Based on head time: HiFiMan HE-500 Sennheiser HD-650 Sennheiser HD-600 The 650s and 600s are virtually tied.

Quote: What exactly is the problem with the HE-500 and a tube amp? I have been running the 500 out of a Raptor and to my ears it sounds absolutely fantastic.

Quote: I completely agree. I used the HD650 for years and recently added the HE-500. IMO the HE-500 easily beats the HD650 for instrumentals and vocals. I am not sure how much head time the 650s are going to get.

X2 on the durability issues with the HE-500 original cable. For that reason and the micro phonics a replacement cable is worth considering irrespective of your beliefs on whether the cables can improve the headphones sound.

I started my headphone voyage on Head-Fi a number of years ago and finally ended up very satisfied with a Silver Dragon cabled HD650 driven by an RSA Raptor and drifted away from Head-Fi. I came back a few months ago and noticed all of the raves that the new orthos were getting. I finally...

I currently have six: HD650, HD580, HD595, DT880 600ohm, K701, SR80.

Count me in for one pair HD650.

I agree that you should try to listen to both; your ears and preferences are what counts. While both are excellent cans, I prefer the 650 over the 600 for the jazz that I listen to. I find it more refined with fabulous mids.

Quote: Originally Posted by koven keep hd580s, upgrade source & amp X2

Quote: Originally Posted by GuyDebord If you plan on getting an amp or have one then get the dt880 600ohm, this version of the 880's has no sibilance issues and is more richer and defined with than the 250ohm which IMO are more balanced than the 650. While I truly enjoy my DT880...

Both my 580 and 650 are very comfortable. The 650 has a tighter clamp and needed a small amount of adjustment but now it is quite comfortable.

Quote: Originally Posted by koven FWIR, the HD580/600 sound alike - very neutral. The HD650 is a bit darker with more bass. Grab the HD600's if you want something similar! X4. I prefer the 650 due to its darker and more refined nature, but if you love the sound of the 580 then...

A nicely balanced headphone with good extension on both ends, high levels of detail and good sound stage. The highs are definitely less fatiguing than the 250 ohm version. Regarding sibilence, I don't detect any when driven by the Raptor. At 600 ohms these cans cry out for a good OTL tube amp.

The 600 ohm DT880s definitely fit your interests in a refined, detailed and engaging headphone. It has extended but smooth highs and good bass extension. Mids may be a bit recessed but are very liquid. Definitely my second favorite can behind my 650s.