Headphones? Anyone?

Definitely roll tubes I rolled a number of nos tubes in my yarland to great effect.

I just got a pair of Shure SRH-1440's in the mail for $300. Return item, open box. What a deal!! I would agree with those who say this is a midrange-centric listening experience. The midrange is lush. The highs are extended without being harsh or grainy, and there is more bass than my RS2i's. I can listen to my japanese import king crimson on cd at fairly loud volume, for example, and it does not sound harsh at all. Listening to vinyl is also quite a treat. Can't wait to try some classical.

Just picked up a mint (less than 50 hrs) set of AKG K702 phones from a freind. Guy started at $175 and kept dropping. When he got too low I had to bite! Listening to "I am Shelby Lynn", and I am loving them!
Four cans I have bagged go for $560 (street price not MSRP), I have a total of $255 in them. Been lucky and having big fun!
Just switched to Brandi Carlile "The Story", never sounded this good on other cans or speakers. Apparently although these things are very detailed and natural, they are somehow forgiving of less than stellar recordings. Happy.

The other new addition is a the Monoprice 8323, available for $28. Amazingly good cheapies, these will be my portable knock-arounds. Happy

AKG has always had a lot to offer audiophiles for quite some time now. If I were to add another pair, AKG is where I might look first.

When your budget is $100-$250, your choices are limited. Everybody wants great stuff, but doesn't want to spend. Doesn't happen. Sorry. I would say the $100 Sonys are pretty good, but not great.