[RedSky0]

So, use the D5000s now, owned AD700s previously, have heard and liked the AD900s but am willing to spend a bit more money.
 
Looking for a side-step from the D5000s with the same comfort level/lightness but am looking for something more airy and natural sounding which is good at classical, lean bass is fine, or perhaps something with higher detail levels (also good for classical but in a different way).
 
Primarily looking at either the AD2000s (detail) at the moment. Was also thinking of one of the other upper end open/closed A-T lines particularly the wood series, any ideas based on experience of which would be a good pick? There's so many :S. Open to other options too.
 
Cheers!

 

[idletime1213]

HD800? Can't get any better detail than that in a dynamic.

 

[RedSky0]

Was thinking about that. Decided against based on (1) durability and cost of replacement parts for my HD600s has not endeared me to the Sennheiser brand, (2) buying flagship is always horrible value, should probably mention my upper limit is around $500. They are quite lightweight and I generally liked them when I tried them out at a meet.

 

[n3rdling]

How about one of the entry level electrostat setups?  You could probably get a Koss ESP950/E90 or Stax SR202 and basic amp here for less than that.

 

[RedSky0]

It's a novel idea, I was considering the EPS950 a while back but now that I've invested a grand in a DAC/amp it's a bit hard to justify.
 
By the sounds of it then unless there are any other ideas I'll probably go with one of the A-Ts, any experience from you guys of say which wood version to consider?

 

[obobskivich]

I'd second the ESP/950 or one of the open Sony cans. All will be much lighter than the D5000 (in more ways than one). You might also consider the Beyerdynamic T70 if you want a closed can (price-watch these, they tend to yo-yo between $400 and $600). 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

[keanex]

As an Ad900 who upgraded to the AD2000, I have to nominate the Ad2000. They are everything I hoped and more, an upgrade in every way except soundstage size really.

 

[RedSky0]

Will have a look into the T70s. 
 
How would you compare the soundstage of the AD2000s to the AD900s?

 

[keanex]

Quote:

Will have a look into the T70s. 
 
How would you compare the soundstage of the AD2000s to the AD900s?

More narrow and intimate, but with better imaging and accuracy. It's as if the music is swirling around my head.