[LFC_SL]

Therein the beauty of opinion. Whilst Head-Fi opinion may share the same thread, perception is individual to you. Demo is the only way to go, unless you can negotiate a zero % restocking fee with an online retailer. For me the SE535 mids epitomise emotion, particularly desirable given a lot of my music is comprised of female vocals.

 

[Spyro]

True,  If I had to put my finger on 1 single complaint with SE535 is lack of extension top and bottom. 
 
Then throw in a forward midrage and it makes for a very average sounding IEM.

 

[Pnguyen1028]

Pretty sure most everyone in this price range went through the same dilemma. I ended up going with the SE535 LTD's that you can find on accessoryjack for $485. Don't buy the normal SE535's.