So, I will ask again. Does anyone have any experience with the TH-500rp compared to the 400i? Some (helpful) feedback would be much appreciated, as I'm trying to decide which deal I may jump on.
Much thanks
I purchased both during the recent Black Friday sales. I am keeping the 400i and selling the 500rp.
Both have good build quality and excellent comfort. The Fostex ear shaped pads do not quite fit my larger than ear shaped ears, but very comfortable none-the-less. The Hifiman pads tilt the cups forward a bit, which I think improves the imaging a bit.
They do not sound at all alike. The Fostex are much darker, more bass, enhanced I would say, and less treble. I have slightly rolled off high ears, so for younger ears it they may be preferable, but for me too dark.
The HE-400i are brighter and more detailed, with excellent bass, but not as much, Midrange is significantly smoother. In my OMG look at that price Nov buying spree I also picked up the HE-400s and HE-560. The HE-400s highs seem rolled off to me in comparison to the 560-400i. Less detail. I really like the 400s and only find fault when I quickly switch to the 400is. The 400s sound great but seem less detailed, a bit looser.
The 560s are a bit better than the 400i in most respects, but the sound is similar and I would be very happy with the 400i without the direct comparison. The biggest difference I hear with the 560s are improved bass and bass slam, and a bit better imaging. I have not decided whether to keep the 400i or 560s, I can really fall into the music with either. When listening to music with promenant bass (the newest Snoop Dogg), the 560s are definitely more exciting, but both sound great.
If you do not mind returning headphones then you might buy both the 500rp and 400i, I think you would determine pretty quickly which is more to your taste.
