Suggested retail prices and market prices can vary widely with ear gear.
Some web sellers, and old time discounters (B & H photo had a catalog and phone sales before they also sold on line) frequently discount heavily. Like every other product these days, it pays to do some comparison shopping.
Some web sellers are better than others. Both TTVJ and Headroom have an unconditional 30 day return on headphones. Some have different policies but are totally reputable. Some aren't. Check reputations and policies.
If, as a prior post has noted, you see the item at several sellers for around the same price, it is probably real, and first quality. Again find a seller with a good reputation.
If it looks too good to be true, then it probably is. Still, you are free to try to verify that the deal is real, just be careful.
One example-I just looked: Sennheiser HD650
Retail: $499 (with items that are regularly discounted and widely available, the suggested retail price is more of a joke, or a marketing gimmick, than a reality. What we want to know, and don't is the retailer's cost. Like with new cars, the real question is how little profit is the retailer willing to accept.
B&H Photo: I do a lot of photography, and have dealt with B&H for years. They are totally reputable. Their return policy, on most opened items, is full for defects. I do not believe they guarantee satisfaction (so know what you want before you order. Actual, if you use their "coupon" or whatever which is available on their site: $325
TTVJ Says retail $499. Headroom says "list price" is $549 and "our price" is $499. Each site explains why they can't "show" a lower price. But, ask the magic question (which is pretty automatic-they make sure you ask) and TA-DA, you get an e-mail with the real price which is a tad more than B&H but you get the 30 day satisfaction bit. Also TTVJ and HR are sponsors here and we like them.
Moral: if you are too lazy to do a little homework, don't complain about paying more money.
