I've tried various ones from Audio Technica, Beyer Dynamics, Sennheiser, - but not one has ever Given me the same listening pleasure. My configuration is neither the best nor, of course, perfect - just a desktop PC with FIIO E10k Olympus 2 DAC / headphone amplifier, - HOWEVER, unlike all previous brands - thesis AKG finally Appeared able to give me Exactly the sound I've been waiting for! The highs are exceptionally clear, the mids are juicy and powerful, the bass is just in the right amount (not artificially "over-done" and exactly as in recording one listens to), clarity is exceptional and the soundstage Sufficiently broad. All in all, I would take a liberty to insist That in Their price-range the AKG K550 rules! I think it can compete with 8-time more expensive Sennheiser HD800, while for Sennheiser HD598 Beyerdynamic and 990 - to my personal taste it's just better than theory ones. The headphones are solidly built and so look beautiful (they've got the modern but classy look). They are extremely comfortable on head, quite light and fine for long hours of listening. All in all, - thumbs up for AKG! They've definitely done it this time!
