I'm also not much of a bass-head (I listen mainly to classical). I am not a fan of punchy or overwhelming bass, but when I listen to things like http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQAyFk66DTI, the 598's provide a sort of warm flood of bass. It's gentle but somehow always leaves me in awe.

"WHY PAY AU $ 395.00 RETAIL?"

  Sennheiser HD 448 3.5mm/ 6.3mm Connector Around-Ear Stereo Headphone Was $129.99, now $49.99 at newegg. Ends 1/8   http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16826106297&nm_mc=EMC-IGNEFL010612&cm_mmc=EMC-IGNEFL010612-_-EMC-010612-Index-_-HeadphonesAccessories-_-26106297-L019A

Thanks so much for all of your help, expertise, and input! :)

I just used cheap apple earbuds incl in the box. I use earplugs, and am quite comfortable with them, although they are foam and not triple-flange or anything. What do you think about the senn ie8?   Thanks so much for your help so far!

Did you find them comfortable? My main issue with them is comfort. I had to return them because the skin on my ears got very sensitive, and my head would in generally be in quite a bit of pain after a few hours of listening. I tried shampooing and conditioning the original pads, but to no avail. 

Hello all!   I am looking to buy an IEM now that I've realized how important portability is for gear (since my over-ear + amp are not terribly convenient to lug around).   I'm a bit vague on my budget. I'd prefer to stay at $200 max, although I'll push a little higher if it's REALLY...