[riker1384]

I have a pair of Sennheiser HD-497 that I got a few years ago. They were my first quality, open phones. I just picked up a pair of HD-555 that were going cheap on Craigslist. I looked them up, they have good Amazon reviews at a higher price point and several people there and in forums said they had also had the 497, and the 555 were better. I thought they were a safe bet.
 
I don't like to waste people's time kicking tires on Craigslist, so I just tested them for function with some techno the guy had. Now I've got them home, and they sound dark. The 497's were clearer. Am I nuts?

 

[Zombie_X]

No the HD555 is dark sounding so you aren't nuts or bonkers... at least yet This place will make you though
 
The HD600 sounds less dark IMO because it has more treble energy and would recommend those phones if you have a amp. An amp can make the HD555 sound more lively. Even a Fiio amp helps, the E5 unit that is.

 

[zaphod-159]

or get a cmoy 2.02 with it and enjoy.

 

[pp312]

I owned the 497 and I currently have a 555 and I can assure you the 555 is streets ahead in terms of resembling live music. However, if you're not listening to acoustic music and you've become accustomed to a lesser set of headphones with their own particular colourations it's not surprising you're having trouble adjusting. I would advise giving yourself time. The 555 is not "dark', it's remarkable neutral for its price, and an amp will not improve it much; but if you're used to false brightness in a phone it will take a while for your ears to adjust. 

 

[desktophifi]

If you are a basshead, the 555's are not for you.