hmm I was under the impression that the reason behind this thread being made was that the hd650 sounds better than ever in its latest version. Marv/Purrin has tried many other hd650s from the past.

Just picked these up after being inspired by this thread and realizing over time how fatiguing my HE560's were. Initially, what impresses me most is the expressiveness of voices. I've been listening a lot to the new Alabama Shakes record, and the quality of Brittany Howard's voice is markedly more nuanced on the HD650 than what I've experienced on other systems (ortho headphones, speakers). Also, no fatigue after long listening sessions. So yeah, wish I had started here and saved a lot of money. Want to thank those on the thread who have sung the HD650's praises. I think I ignored it for all of these years because I wrongly assumed it was dated.

I use the HD650 and HD600 a lot more than I do the HD800.  Easier to just relax and get into the music. HD800 causes me to focus too much on picking everything apart instead of just enjoying the music.

well I'm actually EQing my HD800 to make them more enjoyable.

Still I'm interested in the HD650. What do you think about comfort wise?
I guess the HD650 is lighter?

Put on the Stax SRS-2170 for a while today, first listen as I just picked it up... I was thinking, "Mm, yes, there is that Stax sound... and these are fairly resolving... they sound decent!" Initial impression is they are less warm than the 650's, a touch on the lean side, but resolving nonetheless. Decent decay and worth giving a shot as keepers. A few tracks sounded very nice.

Swapped back to the 650's with the Zana Deux, and I'm as astounded as I was the first time I heard this combo. They sound clean, full, refined, detailed... just entirely enjoyable. I am waiting on the MB Gungnir to feed this, and I will convince myself to just submit and stop chasing. Maybe.

I'd also like to compare the new ZD to the original that I have. I can't imagine the 650's sounding any better.