Although I just missed the Massdrop on the HD 600, I can still buy it new local for $300 (looks like Senn has loosened the pricing restrictions on authorized dealers for the HD600 and HD650). I had always said that if the HD600 dropped to $300 or less I would get them as they are a great can to have but I never thought I could justify full retail at $399 for them. However, now that the price has dropped I still see it as $300 less available for another can (and related upstream gear) if I decide to go higher-end. I am not trying to amass a collection, but rather find the best all-rounder for my budget with my AKG Q701 as my go-to can when soundstage is a priority.

I think at this point I will just hold off until next week's NY Audio show.  Looks like all the big boys and usual suspects will be there and there will be a dedicated headphone lounge again.  Oppo is supposed to be there so I should be able to finally listen to the PM-1 and PM-2.  Also, Stereo Exchange will be having their own "show".  I think between the two I will be able to listen (or listen again) to most of the cans on my list. Harman/AKG is also listed for the Audio Show. I really hope they bring the K812 and K712.  I am so jonesing for something new but I think at this point it makes sense to wait out the next week and then just make the best decision based on what my ears (and my gut) is telling me.

Scotch?

 

I don't often have friends coming from America. Well, actually, I don't now --- but my wife does, and if they have any space after loading up gifts for the family, we might be able to get a thing or two carried here for us.

Whilst my mind is very much taken up with the idea of trying a pair of HD800s, that would really be a little too much for the budget to bear and, by a quirk of fate, they can be had in this country (where such things often cost much more) at a very competitive price anyway. I'm thinking of a pair of HD600 as a stepping stone. Currently, it costs not-a-huge-amount on Amazon.com.

I have little experience of headphones, I'm a recent convert. My current, and first serious, headphone is Audia-technica ATH-AD900. They are so blissfully comfortable that I'd go for a higher-end model in the range, except I seem to see people saying that the one I have is probably the best value for money, and the more expensive ones aren't worth it.

At home, I listen to... well, you know, stuff like The Grateful Dead and Mahler symphonies (and recently, Steve Miller and JJ Cale). I like to pick out the details in stuff, whether it is the melody of a bass guitar, or some tinkly bit in an orchestra.   I suffer from high-frequency hearing loss anyway, so the highs must not be lacking, but I like the bass as well. I suppose I don't object to mids!  Quite possibly what I want is a fairly well balanced sound.

Oh, I also like the colour blue, even when it is marbled, but I don't like too much pressure on my ears.

Can anyone make any suggestion ---or even wild speculation--- as to whether or not HD600s would be good thing for me to buy?