Great comparison and review, thanks. I also should have a better quality balanced HD700 cable on the way shortly. I can tell I haven't been getting the most out of their potential with a cheap crap aftermarket cable. Looking forward to comparing it apples to apples with the HE-560.

Thanks, I briefly looked at the Shure models, but wasn't sure which would have the right value:performance for me. I suppose I should look into the IE8 too...

Yes :)

At first glance, not really sold on the Darkvoice. Would like something with a balanced connection as well.

Or if anyone can direct me to some more info I can read up on, that would be very welcome as well.

What about the Schiit Jotunheim?

Does that really limit its performance, though? Or, do alternatives really provide a perceivable performance boost due to not having that throughput limit?

Thanks, I do like slightly bass-heavy signatures, but I'm more concerned with detail, clarity, and balanced spectrum.

I've been using the JDS Labs O2+ODAC with my HD700 and HE-560s, and have been pretty happy with all of these. I hope to upgrade to the HD800S and HE-1000 before too long, and would like some recommendations on a good performing and good value amp/DAC upgrade that would accommodate these well...

I just tried the RE-400 because of the consensus that they're a great value for their performance, but their performance isn't anywhere near what I'm looking for. I have been considering the Klipsch x20i for a while, but have seen so many mixed perspectives on them that I'm unconvinced I'll be...

  Haha probably not the best idea, in general ;)

  Thanks for the quick response. I got my HD700 secondhand from a member here and it came with a cheap aftermarket cable, so I don't have the stock cable to compare to when I do get the balanced cable for it. But, if it even gets me half the benefit that I experienced with using balanced cables...

  I'm curious what you decided on; I'm also looking at the Surf Cables option but haven't pulled the trigger yet. I noticed a huge improvement in sound quality and clarity going from unbalanced to balanced with the HE-400i from my C5D, so I expect the HD700 to have a similar improvement.

  It's obviously a bad driver.

  I totally agree, they're good enough to be able to focus on whatever activity I'm doing without having this nagging sensation of totally crappy audio in the background. I like fun-sounding signatures too, but unfortunately they always lose too much clarity and detail for me to stick with...