The current DT-48E circa 2010 has a prominent high end - much more so than the rolled-off 48's of 20 or so years ago. Same goes for the bass. Although the bass on the current 48E is weak compared to most 'phones, it's far better than the old 48's, but for best results, requires a perfect seal. The current 48E headband is as good as any from the old 48's, and while my head on top has almost no hair and is sensitive to touch, I experience perfect comfort with the current 48E. The one area that the DT-48 changed in comfort from the old 48's is the cushions. The current cushions are easy on my ears, while the old cushions, being thinner, tended to pinch my outer ear parts and could be painful.