I agree. I bought two Fostex T-40s and was very dissappointed because of the heavy bass response. The AT M40fs's (I bought two of those last week) give a great flat response so I really know what I've got.
I've got the audio technicas and i really like them
they give a great sound
I don't know how the other ones u listed sound but the m40's are great for me
I've tried out a lot of cans.....but I always come back to the AKG's......they just give a great flat response...and are really comfy.........I use the 240 DF & 270S models all the time now........give 'em a try and your'll see what I mean.....