Compared to the SR325i, the SE530s are a lot more laid back and lush (somewhat like the HD 650s w/o the veil). They are both very detailed. The SR325i are A LOT brighter than the SE530s, obviously. Vocals are also a lot more forward and realistic on the SR325i and although the SE530s are known to be bassy, it doesn't come close to the bass quality of the SR325i. When I listen to the SR325i I feel like I'm getting punched in the face by the bass. The muscles in my forehead actually twitch a little after a few hours. (Which I like, oddly enough.) Everything was just so much more "alive" and involving, compared to the SE530. The sound stage between the two seem about the same. (the SR325i might have a slight edge, but not huge)
After listening to the SR325i for the last 6 hours, I do prefer the SR325i sound over the SE530. Everything was just bigger and better I guess. The only thing I found the SE530s did better was with acoustic music, but then again, we are comparing full sized open cans to closed IEMs and also two different sound sigs and the Grado sound sig is of a completely different nature than anything I've heard before. I'm really that impressed by it. I'm actually thinking of selling the SE530s and buying a pair of Grado Gr8s.
After listening to the SR325i for the last 6 hours, I do prefer the SR325i sound over the SE530. Everything was just bigger and better I guess. The only thing I found the SE530s did better was with acoustic music, but then again, we are comparing full sized open cans to closed IEMs and also two different sound sigs and the Grado sound sig is of a completely different nature than anything I've heard before. I'm really that impressed by it. I'm actually thinking of selling the SE530s and buying a pair of Grado Gr8s.