I was looking for some trusty headphones for producing/mixing/mastering and having tried the Audio Technica R70x before, i knew those were the ones to get as i liked the way they sounded in the mid and high frequencies, the space, even though i had noticed the lack in low and sub frequencies (as always with open back headphones). By the time I checked they were out of stock and I did some research for any better, new options. It was the right time because it was 2-3 weeks from the release of Sennheiser HD 490 Pro. They looked very promising and i was willing to pay a little bit more for something newer. I got them and i have to say i am very happy that i did. The first time i get the low end precise on open back headphones with the producer earpads. I loved it. It’s clear and punchy without being overwhelming at all. At first I expected them to be more “airy” in the highs, they don’t give you that sparkle in the highs as you would expect from headphones in this price range, but after listening/working on them for 2-3 days I adapted to the sound and i made a few mixes that translated very well. I have to say they sound better combined with a good preamp (listening through Motu M4 interface i could feel slightly a deeper sound wider soundstage and more clear highs). The mixing earpads tend to be more flat and have a little bit more highs but i prefer the producer earpads for the nice sub translation.
The sound quality is the main focus for me when it comes to headphones but i have to say, the comfort on these is another 5 stars, i worked on them for hours and i forgot i was wearing headphones after a while!