Mine should be here in a few days, and I'm super excited. I think these will be the last headphones I buy for a very, very long time. I'm getting to the point where I'm tired of spending money and worrying about gear. I have other things to worry about.
I just want to sit and enjoy...and I think these will allow me to do that very nicely.

Would you consider them to be of similar blood as the D7000 - i.e., smooth with slight coloration towards the bassy end -, or simply better in all aspects?

I consider them significantly better than the D7000 in all aspects (and I both own, and like, the D7000)

Strong praise indeed, I will have to try this one for myself. THanks for the heads-up on the Paper Airplane release, looks like their first one in 4 years. How do you like it?

LOVE the new AKUS - it's absolutely terrific - if you like them, I would run out to get it!

Once more impressions are put up, I might actually consider these. I just have difficulty considering any headphone better than my Denons.

I will see if my local Target has the bonus track version, if not I will pre-order the vinyl that comes out next month.

do you think this will have good synergy with the Meier Audio Corda Stepdance? and will the Stepdance have enough power to properly drive them?

I did not try the HE-500 with the Stepdance.

Nice write-up ...
I am considering one ref headphone for portable and home - can HE-500 be powered with a portable headphone amp - if yes which one ... I have the same question for LCD-2 ...
Thanks ...
Sunil