Since I am not an expert acoustics, I can not say anything here about frequency bands and the like, I can only play as ganu normal I-Pod users my opinion. I got myself the new 9701 because my previous 9700 unfortunately are completely scratched and have a loose connection. Anticipation, the predecessor who was 9700 probably the best or was the best you could get in the area to 50 EUR, the market's extremely confusing, as there are Senheiser, Bose and what I still remember everything partly with prices up to 180 EUR. But just the 9700 stood out here with an incredibly rich sound. Equal first, even the new 9701 comes with a stylish bag and change earplugs therefore, the wearing comfort is as class (if you like ear) and these headphones are anything before. For sound: In direct comparison falls on something, that the 9701 a bit less Bummert, the bass is full and clear, but not quite as boomy as its predecessor. But really just a tiny bit. The biggest difference is the "Light" sound, the high notes sound much clearer without sounding tinny. I like it, you can hear any more of the story! : O) So still better than comparable models of higher price range, with a little less bang for but a clearer sound. It's partly terrible it because models are 100 EUR where the bass is simply gone, where then but experts explain one which is the high art indeed in clear high frequency range, I do not think so, I finally wants Disco Pogo and not Brahms. But with the 9701, I think you could now hear more sophisticated music, but the bass is a little softer. But I repeat myself. : O) I beg to observe that I only go out of my subjective feelings and from the technique no idea. Strong buy recommendation!