had just listened to fostex t40rp, dt 770 (80ohm), and akg 553. First, akg553 is the most comfortable (although i have relatively big head), and t40rp is least comfortable (you could get better pads but the price increases); dt770 pads are pretty nice, roomier than akg553, but they are short for my head and ear---my earlobes are touching the bottom of the inside of the pad, then again, my head is pretty big. dt 770 is analytical as it advertises, akg 553 is a little more lively and bassier, personally i feel t40rp is very ok....akg is the best looking one. definitely portable if you take care of the cable. overall akg533 is best value i think. and monk plus is really excellent for the price.