Since people are talking pads, I have to mention sticking (literally; carpet tape rules) Q701 pads on some spare HE-500 mounting rings. They may be a bit stiff for some, but they're angled and relatively inexpensive (in the US, direct from AKG/Harman; can't speak to availability elsewhere). They keep the driver further from ones ears, at least compared to my decently made JergulorX pads (props to modulor for his guide; can't say that enough; and I'd be remiss if I didn't mention jerg! where are my manners! his methodical experimentation and persistence is
par excellence). I assume that distance, plus angle, plus materials, changes the sound and stage somewhat. I'd assume a little less bass impact (no lack of bass for me) and bigger soundstage, with the angle maybe helping imaging... a lot of assumptions there, I know; never compared them properly. One can do jerg's back vent mod, or not, or tape it up if you do it and want to mess around. Also, in some high-end cans review thread (flagships, maybe), the AKG pads passed the test (lack of resonances, IIRC).
As for the new cans and their connectors, someone mentioned consistency, and that seems a reasonable assumption. They already know how to implement them and make it work. Are they a bit more of a PITA than just about every other connector? Well, duh, but as others just pointed out, once you have the method down, it's not that hard. And for people with aftermarket and DIY cables, that consistency is a big plus. As for the cables they'll provide with the new cans... so much room for improvement that I'd be seriously disappointed if that's not addressed (thinking HE-500 cable here). I suppose it's all down to the insulation around the wiring, and lack of sleeving. My plusSounds cable is wonderfully light and supple, with
excellent sleeving, and dead quiet. Can't cost that much for decent sleeving. Last thought: if they angled the connectors even a little, as the photos suggest, that's a big plus.
But hey -- enough of my yakkin'. Whaddaya say, let's boogie!