[theBigD]

If you get a chance to get some D5000, I say go for it!  I like the grado sound but the comfort is definently sub-par and the bass isn't quite there.  For me D5000 is just right maybe just a little colored but with some modding they really shine and are uber COMFY!  And I would under rate the importance of comfort, its the only thing that keeps me from diving in to the HE-400 or HE-500 or the LCD 2  I understand they are a little heavy.  Plus Ive listned to my share of headphones and the D5000 sounds awesome to me.
 

 

[TMRaven]

If you have a good neck on you the HE-400's weight is a non factor.  

 

[jfindon]

I'm a powerlifter so I don't think the weight is going to annoy me
 
Currently on page 20 of the HE-400 thread.  Lots of reading.  I wish there was an in depth comparison of them and the D5000s.

 

[orrb_05]

I've had the SR225s and the PS500s, and the PS500s are not cheap feeling at all. They also ahve a different sound signature than the SR225s, with deeper, smoother bass and better clarity. I can't compare the D7K or 5k, as I've not heard those, nor have I listened to the HE-4s. But, I have had the HE-5s and the HE-500s, and I'd take the PS500s over both of those anyday for - just my opinion. Plus, I was able to drive the PS500s with my iPod and Macbook with no need for an amp, while the Hifimans required amplfication. I think you'd be more than pleased with the build qaulity (wood and alloy housing), as well as the sound. There's a set on the forum for sale as we speak for $475 http://www.head-fi.org/t/611939/fs-grado-ps500-mint-condition
I honestly believe the PS500 are a far better headphone than the HE-400.

 

[jfindon]

Quote:

I've had the SR225s and the PS500s, and the PS500s are not cheap feeling at all. They also ahve a different sound signature than the SR225s, with deeper. smoother bass and better clarity. I can't compare to the D7K or 5k, as I've not heard those, nor have I listened to the HE-4s. I have had the HE-5s and the HE-500s, and I'd take the PS500s over both of those for rock. Plus, i was able to drive the PS500s with my iPod and Macbook with no need for an amp, while the Hifimans required amplfication. I think you'd be more than pleased with the build qaulity (wood and alloy housing), as well as the sound. There's a set on the forum for sale as we speak for $475 http://www.head-fi.org/t/611939/fs-grado-ps500-mint-condition

HE-4s and HE-400s are different headphones though.
 
It's not really the cheap feeling about the Grados, they're just not comfortable enough.  I guess I could still give them a listen if that one place I got in touch with has them in stock, maybe the sound will sway me.

 

[orrb_05]

...sorry - meant to say HE-400. If you can demo the PS500s that would be better than any advice your going to receive here - only your ears know what you like.

 

[orrb_05]

I've heard nothing but great things about the D7Ks. I'd like to give them a listen too.

 

[orrb_05]

Can you stretch your budget a bit - I've seen some LCD-2s on here in the $600+ range, and they will meet your bass needs. I've had the rev-1s and currently have the rev-2s and the LCD-3. I'm pretty sure your HM-601 will drive these and give you good sound - though an amp is going to give you the best results. I was able to drive the LCDs out of the iPod and the Macbook with great sound - the HE-5s and HE-500s were weak out of both - not sure how the HE-400s might work out of your HM-601.

 

[jfindon]

Quote:

Can you stretch your budget a bit - I've seen some LCD-2s on here in the $600+ range, and they will meet your bass needs. I've had the rev-1s and currently have the rev-2s and the LCD-3. I'm pretty sure your HM-601 will drive these and give you good sound - though an amp is going to give you the best results. I was able to drive the LCDs out of the iPod and the Macbook with great sound - the HE-5s and HE-500s were weak out of both - not sure how the HE-400s might work out of your HM-601.

 
I'd really prefer not to right now, I don't really want to spend any more than mid to upper 5s.  I also have a thing with buying something used, I've been burned in the past and therefore shy away from anything pre-owned like this.  I'm sure there are awesome deals to be had but it's something mental I can't get past.  Whatever I get will have to be NIB.

 

[bbophead]

If you get a chance to audition the PS500's, see if you can try the G-Cush's with them (like I do).  Much more comfortable but it does change the sound sig a bit.  They have more mid-bass than my 325i's and a little less mid-range.  Actually, I like whichever one I'm wearing.

 

[jerg]

Quote:

I'm a powerlifter so I don't think the weight is going to annoy me
 
Currently on page 20 of the HE-400 thread.  Lots of reading.  I wish there was an in depth comparison of them and the D5000s.

 
Shame right? AFAIK there are only HE400 vs D2000 reviews (in which the HE400s crush the D2000s in everything except bass quantity, which in excess is not necessarily a good trait in the first place). A few people have both HE400 and D5000 but I've yet to see any of em write a detailed sample-based comparative shootout.

 

[jfindon]

Maybe what I should do is order the HE400s and then audition the PS500s within the 30 days. At least then I can compare SOMETHING.

 

[skit]

Well the akg k550 is worth considering,I think people underestimate there bass ,since alot of people are used to headphones like the denon 2k and pro 900 but since you havn't heard them the bass should be fine.I think its a better headphone then denon 2k in alot of areas.

 

[paradoxper]

I would say the HE-400 as well. And if you're in the $500 range you'd be mistaken not to flirt with LFF's Paradox mod.