I've had a pair of the these headphone for around a month, when I originally received them they came pre-installed with the 'Analytical' pads, I've read a lot about these headphones over the years, so much so that I was already looking into getting them modded with the 8k filter switch before I even received them, naturally, based off what I read regarding the 8K peak I ripped the 'Analytical' pads off straightaway and proceeded to install the 'Balanced' pads, it sounded ok, v-shaped which isn't really my cup of tea, but not too bad, ideal for TV, gaming etc, a fun comfortable listen, bass was little wolly sounding in my opinion, lacking refinement and definition, and the the mids scooped out a little, but still not a bad listen really, what helped was the soundstage and imaging which was still good, so technically an overall good warm fun sounding headphone..
Today, I decided to try the 'Analytical' pads, wow!, what an improvement, everything is cleaned up, bass tightened, midrange brought back into play, more realistic tonality, I don't even get the naming convention of the pads really, I think the 'Analytical' pads actually sound balanced to me, and the balanced pads in comparison do not sound balanced at all, doesn't make sense to me, if you're reading this don't be put off the Analytical pads because of the fabled 8k peak, give them a try (week at least).
Recent tracks tested with the Analytical pads,