Yeah, good question. In Beyerworld, if it was mostly tracking with the possibilty of some mixing, I'd go with the 770s (closed back). Mostly mixing, then 990s. Mixing exclusively, then 880s (they spill quite a fair bit so would be unsuitable for tracking vocals, for example).
AKG have a few outstanding models, Sennheiser also have a fair few, Audio Technica have a decent reputation and I've read that the high-end Shures are killer. If possible, I'd take an iPod or such with some high resolution tracks alongside mp3s (good cans will highlight the difference in quality better than poorer ones) to a store and try a bunch out and get the ones that suit you the best within your budget.
Cheers,
Sam