Quick update ...
Just listened to Sennheiser HD650 HD598 and then finished off with an audtion of the HD800 @ 1K
.
Since the purchase of my audiolab M-DAC I've been loving the impressive scale , openness and improved dynamics both in bass and treble. There seems to be endless top end with no harshness ( after a warm up period from new ). Luckily I was able to demo with an M-DAC as the headphone amp.
Demo was fed from audiolab CDQ cd to M-DAC, music was Blue Nile - A Walk Across the Rooftops - a mixture of some elegant guitar strings funky bass and synth effects . And then briefly another CD accoustic guitar, some piano can't remember the details.
First the HD598, had a pleasing forward and lively sound, nice and spacious. The top end was very revealing , but was a bit edgy for my tastes. Not harsh as such but may have been tiring for long listens. There was noticably more background hiss on quiet passages than the 650's, which was there but less noticable. The headphones felt fairly light and comfortable. They looked good as well, modern white all over with tan ear pads.
I kept swapping and repeating the same passage of play and I found that the HD650's were a very capable headphone and different to the 598's. More polished sound, but not as fun and lively as the 598. The top end was rolled off and I would have preferred a little more range here. Also they seem to have gone over board with the velour pads and were bit heavier to wear than the others. Not over bearing , but was more aware of them.
After the two auditions I reported my findings to the Audio T consultant. I was really after a headphone which gave me the good qualities of both sets. I'm not sure whether headphones require running in and perhaps the slight edginess of the 598's might soften slightly. With that in mind he persuaded me to have a quick listen to the HD800's and guess what ... yup, pretty much ticks all my requirements in what I like and as above was both lively and controlled across the range. Really is a magical headphone. Sorry no in depth analysis hear. I was expecting them to be heavy , by their appearance , but no they're light and although large really place themselve's quite nicely and cup your ears comfortably.
Best start saving
Not sure if I can justify 900/1K so will carry on in new year sales to find alternative ... if there is one.
BTW as reported best buy are closing down this week and have a sale starting Mon.
Denon AHD5000 £599 , Grado Rs-1i £849 Rs-2i £599
With upto 30% off ... any views welcome on the above 3.