greenvneck
New Head-Fier
- Joined
- Nov 13, 2011
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Can anyone tell me how much of a difference there is between them? Also can someone compare both of them to Shure SRH440?
I've been considering these two, as well. Most reports I have read indicate a very subtle improvement in sound in the 598s, compared to the 558s. Is it $70 better? Right now, I can't find anyone who will discount either model substantially, so they're selling at list: $180 for the 558s, and $250 for the 598s. Unfortunately, nobody in my area carries them, so I'm forced to buy on reviews alone.
Beyond sound, I definitely prefer the look of the 558s. Additionally, I think I would prefer the velour/fabric head pad of the 558. In my experience, faux leather eventually ends up flaking off. Plus, I have a shaved head, so the 558 would seem to have a better sweat factor. None of these criteria would be enough offset a significant difference in sound, but if the difference is slight (or nearly unnoticeable, as some have indicated), they could tip the balance toward the 558s - especially once price is factored in.
Also, for those who have heard either model, along with the Denon AH-D2000, I'm interested in how they compare. My preferred genres are classical, some jazz, pop and classic rock.
I've been considering these two, as well. Most reports I have read indicate a very subtle improvement in sound in the 598s, compared to the 558s. Is it $70 better? Right now, I can't find anyone who will discount either model substantially, so they're selling at list: $180 for the 558s, and $250 for the 598s. Unfortunately, nobody in my area carries them, so I'm forced to buy on reviews alone.
Beyond sound, I definitely prefer the look of the 558s. Additionally, I think I would prefer the velour/fabric head pad of the 558. In my experience, faux leather eventually ends up flaking off. Plus, I have a shaved head, so the 558 would seem to have a better sweat factor. None of these criteria would be enough offset a significant difference in sound, but if the difference is slight (or nearly unnoticeable, as some have indicated), they could tip the balance toward the 558s - especially once price is factored in.
Also, for those who have heard either model, along with the Denon AH-D2000, I'm interested in how they compare. My preferred genres are classical, some jazz, pop and classic rock.
For the Sennheisers, personally, I'd take the 558 over the 598 if the price difference was a factor since the difference is very slight in sound.
Thanks, KG - very helpful response. I'm currently listening to the HD570, powering it off a Denon or Yamaha receiver. I enjoy the open sound, except for some odd tonality in the top end, so my goal was to find a more refined version of the same sound, preferably with a little more clarity - hence, my interest in the HD5X8 line. I threw in the Denon option just because I've read some good things about it, but I do understand it is quite a different thing.
Speaking of which, is the D2000 being discontinued? Head Room says it is on their product page, but B&H claims it is just temporarily out of stock, and they expect more in July. There have been rumors of a discontinuation before, but turned out to be just a temporary shortage. I was thinking this might be a similar situation.
My Yamaha Adventage receiver pushes these harder to drive than the HD 5xx line cans, but I don't know how your receivers will do with them.
My Yamaha Adventage receiver pushes these harder to drive than the HD 5xx line cans, but I don't know how your receivers will do with them.