[bmf0]

I own a pair of AKG K701s (~400+ hours burn in) currently paired with the LD 1+ hybrid amp. I also have the portable MK1+ but find that it sounds better with the hybrid.

Anyway, these are my first higher end headphones and I'm having mixed feelings about them. Sometimes they blow me away by how good they sound (nice clarity and big soundstage) and sometimes they sound very harsh/peircing. I also find the bass doesn't have enough presence...it sounds good but I can't feel it.

How would the HD580s compare to the K701? Would they be a better choice for Trance, Metal, and Rock? How is the bass?

Is there another <$200 pair of headphones I should be looking at? D2000 perhaps?

Thanks

 

[tisb0b]

I'd be looking at the Ultrasone HFI-580 or the Grado SR225 both should be good choices given the genres you've listed.

 

[Mr Joboto]

Yup, try looking into an Ultrasone or Gradossandro model.

 

[danzal]

Can't comment on the above responses, but 580s and 600s are better than K701s for metal (less thrashy/shrill) and electronica (more bass). I have K701s, HD580s and 600s.

They are both far easier on the ear with poorly recorded material.