Thanks for the input...   I have said some prayers. We will see how it goes...

Well, I just took the plunge...again.  I hope this, my second, A-5VL is quieter.  I will provide comments.

I just called Onkyo to inquire about the unit's operational characteristics and reliability. The Onkyo representative stated that they have never had a complaint on the A-5VL integrated. He said I should try another unit. Hmm...

Wow, maarek99, this shocks me, as I could easily hear mine hum.  Perhaps I did get a defective unit...or perhaps the EU version is somehow different?  I cannot see why it would be different.

Thanks very much, folks.  I very much appreciate the feedback.   In terms of testing, all I needed to do was put my ear within a foot or two of the amp.  I could hear it even from eight or so feet away, too.  It is a hum/buzz type of sound.  I could even hear it--when the music got...

Do you (or any other a-5VL users out there) notice an issue in regard to noisy transformers?  I had an A-5VL, but returned it because I could hear transformer noise (external, not in the line/headphones/speakers) when the music would get lower in level.  I could even hear it in the background...

Is there a good way to remove the kinks in a stock AKG K701 or Q701 cable?  I am always disappointed to see these wires come so bunched up, and the result is an awkward, ugly cable.  Thus, any ideas on removing the kinks effectively?

One is certain one is an audiophile when one sells a component, buys it back later on, and then cannot remember why he/she had sold it in the first place.

Yes, I had looked at their specs, and I knew they would be "brother" or "sister" headphones.  In comparison, I parted with my HD650 because I thought they were a bit dark.  They had excellent bass and dynamics, but the Q701 was better in terms of space and air.  The Q701 is also more comfortable.

After being impressed by the Q701, I have just ordered the K701.  What can I expect?  I have two good headphone amps, the Schiit Asgard and the headphone section in my Yamaha integrated.  I welcome your thoughts.    Before I forget: is it hard to straighten the K701's cable?  I am always...

I could not agree more about the Q701--it is about as perfect a headphone as I can imagine.  I think I will just send back the 702-65 when it arrives.  Memory foam is not for me.

What do the cups look like on the latest MS2i?  Chrome?  Brushed?  Gray-ish?  I have seen different pictures, but want to confirm what is current.  Also, please let me know if there are any quality issues, as I have read at least one negative comment in regard to the 325is. 

Memory foam is about the last thing I would want in a headphone pad.

Has anyone noticed an odor coming off of the 702-65's pads?  Memory foam contains a number of chemicals, some of which may be bothersome to some.  My Q701's pads do not give off an odor, but I am concerned about the 702-65's pads.

I think I see the elastics now.  It appears they are on the sides.   I just looked at my Q701, and they have thin elastics on the sides.  I agree that they would look lame when worn out.