First of all the list price for the HD800 is 1299 euro, and the HD800S is 1599, which includes the balanced cable. Senn saying it is only a little better is a welcome change from the usual ridiculous hyperbole of the current market. The HD800 is the best dynamic headphone ever made so of course the new one is only a little better. In fact, even if you think some other headphone is better than the HD800, it is only a little better. So for 300 euro extra you get a better headphone, with a balanced cable which is because Senn is hoping you will also buy one of their amps. Obviously. It is a rational marketing strategy, even though many of you don't seem to understand why. In time (probably short) the headphone will have a similar percentage discounts off retail like the HD800. And there will be bundles with the amp offering discounts on both when bough together, at least that is what you see here in europe. But if you don't like it, go buy the $3000 slightly better (or worse depending on your taste) HE1000 or buy the slightly better or worse SR009 and an expensive amp, that you have to wait six months to be built for 9k or buy the definitely worse LCD4 for 4k.... jeez.