I've heard the MDR-1A with different pads and tested the Cascade at Can Jam NYC. First its ear cups don't extend far enough for my head. Second it has even more mid bass bloom vs. every variation of the Sony MDR-1A. People are divided on the 1AM2 vs. the older Sony I have. Some say same bass, some less. The Sony MDR-1A with Meze 99 pads to me will win, as it improves higher end detail and spatial qualities. The Cascade had similar bright but not fatiguing highs (at moderate to lower volume). The MDR-1A has fuller mids, close to perfect there. The Cascade would not have a recessed midrange honestly, it is just a bit overshadowed by the huge mid bass bump. Low mids stock are similar, but the Meze 99 pads clean those up. Sub bass is similar stock, but with Meze pads I'd get sub bass from the MDR-1A like I've never heard from any other can. Huge quantity equal to the mid bass area but no bleed into the lower mids. I just couldn't spend long with the Cascade due to fit issues.