With this review I would like to settle the long standing question of how the MDR-Z1R and MDR-Z7M2 compare. Reviews are all over the map on the Z7M2 and how it compares to its older sibling. I am reviewing them against each other using the Sony WM1A Walkman set to direct output (no EQ/DSP), and each using its packed-in silver-coated OCF 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced cable. --But... why?-- Before I purchased my MDR-Z1R, I owned the previous Sony flagship, the MDR-Z7. I enjoyed it, but sold it when I upgraded. It had a bassy, rich sound signature, but...