Well, it's been a few years since I sent mine in. I got the gel cushions when I sent mine in. Good to know that they aren't doing that anymore and using foam... I agree with you about the mineral filled ones. I use them all the time mixing my (and other) bands locally. I also use them for recording and mixdown in my studio. They sound great for everything. I love how they sound using them on my digital drums with a headphone amp!