AKG K371

“This isn't a comprehensive review/comparison, but here are my ratings in a few categories (more to the right = worse) Build quality: HD58x > K553 > HD560s > K361 > K371 Note: The K553 feels the nicest, but also has a weak spot in the headband, though much less likely to be a problem than the K371. The K371 loses to the K361 because the K361's headband is also less likely to break. Comfort: K361 > everything else Note: The K361 feels a bit like a toy (in a good way) because of how light it is and it also fits like a glove (like the K371, with the K371 being heavier). The rest are kind of a wash, really, with a trade-off between clamping force (higher on the Sennheisers) and hotness (due to the leather pads on the AKGs). None of them is what I would consider uncomfortable. Balanced sound: K371 > K553 > K361 > HD560s > HD58x Note: Here's a spicy little opinion! The K371 isn't perfect, but it's the closest I've heard to my ideal FR. It may not excel at many things, but its sound is never bothersome. It sounds the most natural to my ears. The K553 comes in at a close second with more energy in the 2-4KHz area (and more "air"), the 560s is leaning a bit too bright (on some music), 58x - a bit too warm (on most music). The K361 is an interesting one. It's similar enough to the K371, but to my ears the treble is subdued to the point where it becomes a bit dull. I'd even go as far as to say it sounds a bit like a 58x with better bass extension and very slightly less warmth. None of the headphones deserve to be at the bottom of the scale and I feel kinda bad for having the 58x there, but it is what it is. If I had to summarise each headphone with as few words as possible: HD560s - impressive, bright HD58x - a warm hug K553 - overall great K371 - balanced, fragile K361 - comfortable, inoffensive Curious to hear your thoughts!”