[ParanoidAndroid]

So my current HD 555s are on their death bed and I need a new pair in the $200 - $300 CAD price range. I've always been bias towards Sennheiser because I really enjoy there style and sound. The three I'm debating about are as follows:
 
Sennheiser HD 595 - $200 CAD
 
Sennheiser HD 598 - $300 CAD
 
AKG K-701  - $250
 
I don't have a headphone amp and buying one would put more over my budget. What do you guys suggest in this price range? thanks !

 

[SoSpecial]

How much does a new pair of HD555's cost? The Foam mod will get you right close to an HD595.

 

[bisayaboi]

First off what kind of sound do you like? That's the most important info.
 
Also what kind of genre of music do you like?
 
All Sennheiser's from 500-600 I know of all have that smooth and warm sound; the 595 version being the most forward version (Grado-like).
I don't know if the 598 sound any better.. I think it's the same.
 
If you really like the Sennheiser sound I recommend getting the HD580, HD600, or HD650.
 
K701's are supposed to have a good midrange, good treble, and even less bass than the DT880 (which is unsatisfactory for bassheads).

 

[ParanoidAndroid]

I like a clear and warm sound with a decent sound stage. I mostly listen to all genres of rock (very little heavy metal) and some electronic music.
I was considering the HD600 and HD650 but I'd have to buy a head phone amp for those two right?

 

[bisayaboi]

Quote:

I like a clear and warm sound with a decent sound stage. I mostly listen to all genres of rock (very little heavy metal) and some electronic music.
I was considering the HD600 and HD650 but I'd have to buy a head phone amp for those two right?

Oh I forgot about unamped.. that makes it a bit tougher then.
Indeed, you need an amp for the HD600 and HD650.
 
Clear and warm sound with decent soundstage...
Off the top of my head I can think of the SRH840.
 
But the HD595/598 I think are a better choice for you. They have that Sennheiser (warm, great midrange, good bass)sound with the added forwardness and treble which for many make rock better. (for me it's midrange)
The SRH840 are nice and warm but their mids just don't have that signature Shure midrange (which could be EQ'd...).
However the SRH840 might be able to do better unamped than the 595/598 can.
 
Also, there is that 555 foam mod which supposedly converts it into a 595.
 

 

[ffdpmaggot]

Haven't heard the 598, but I love my 595, i think they run about 140 USD

 

[ParanoidAndroid]

Yea I think it's going to come down to either the HD595 or HD598. I'm trying to justify if the $80 - 100 price difference between the two.

 

[Sennheiser]

X2 on HD 595 / HD 598. Both are excellent cans though the HD 598 will offer you improved spatiality and better reproduction of lower frequencies.

 

[sugarkang]

Don't forget about the 598 deal going on. 
Difference ends up being $30 or so between the 595/598.
I think it's a USA deal though, not sure.

 

[ParanoidAndroid]

Which site currently has a deal on HD598? I have family in the US who would be able to buy it for me.