Add the new Jmoney v3 pads and they get even better!
Having listened to all three, 2000/5000/7000 I would also agree that to my ears even if the only difference between the 2000's and 5000's is wooden cups and thicker cable then those two things make a considerable difference to my ears.I found the 2000's to be less involving/ musical than the stock 5000's
The difference between the 5000's and 7000's to my ears was a little more clarity in the mid range with the 7000's and a little more sparkle in the treble, also a little firmer bass.
Having said that I plumped for the 5000's as the cost difference was considerable at the time between them and the 7000's (over $300) and I thought the difference though noticeable did not justify to me the price increase.
I want to say this before I make this statement. I very much enjoy the stock 5000's so musical and engrossing, I simply forget I am listening to equipment and just get absorbed into the music. However, I took the plunge and decided to go for the V3 Jmoney pads.
For me, with the V3 pads fitted the sound is much closer to the 7000's, a little more space around the music, mids a little more clear, bass, still visceral but a little tighter and controlled and the treble has a little more sparkle. I would say from what I have heard adding the V3 pads brings the 5000's to within 85% of the 7000's. Now, having said that. If the 7000's come down a little more in price I would say go for them still as they are spectacular headphones, if they don't then add around $75 to the cost of your 5000's and get very close to the 7000 experience for a great deal less money (this is of course, just in my experience, others may have found differently)
For me these headphones are stunningly capable and do most things very right! from Wagner to intimate acoustic, from led zep to Kraftwerk these phones shine.. I love mine!
PS, I got mine for $389 a few months ago from Amazon.