[jwusoccer]

Quote:

With the HD558 you listen to, was the black rubber tape removed from the cans?

Yes, but even with the tape removed they do not sound the same.

 

[WiR3D]

Arg no
 
AKG K240MkII: $135 bargain, used to retail $250 on Amazon
Asus Xonar Essence STX: $163 at Newegg
 
 
And then thats on budget, and I am sure you can get some more discount if you shop around.
 
FYI
AKG k240MKII and AKG K242HD are the same, just different pads and the latter has no detachable cable.
Asus ST and STX are the same, but the ST has better clocks.
 
for a special treat upgrade the opamps on the Soundcard to the AD797BR dual
 
 
Open back, great soundstage, good bass. good clarity, Dolby headphone, and lots of upgrade room on both sides

 

[hally115]

I thinks HD600 is the best headphone all time.

 

[Bad Santa]

Quote:

I thinks HD600 is the best headphone all time.

 
Bit outside the budget though.