Fun thread, but my forehead is sore. I really have to stop smacking it each time I read something that has no bearing on reality or is based solely on conjecture.
But come on... they are headphones, and this is a site for those who post their opinions about headphones. Absolutes are idiotic. (Yes, that's ironic and oxymoronic).
And those who spew absolutes should absolutely be ignored (what's wrong with me today??).
The M50 ws never King of anything. It was only popular because it had the atributes to make it so. It 'was' an inexpensive (relatively) HP that had very good sonic and build qualities. Simple. Think... Toyota Camry. Somewhat inexpensive, and does a pretty good job of getting someone somewhere in relative comfort. King of sedans? No, but very popular because it shows well in its pricepoint.
No need to knock it off it's pedestal. It will do that on its own, or not depending on several factors... including competition.
There will always be someone who feels that there is a better HP for the money. So? What is it, and why? That's all we need to know. We will take or leave your opinion based on several things. But, I can assure you that to judge a set of cans based on poorly recorded, mastered, produced music, run through inferior equipment is not the way to garner credibility or be taken seriously. <facepalm> Really.