headphone buying guide

8/13/2019 Headphone Buying Guide

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S P E C I A L F E A T U R E S

SUMMIT-FI THE PINNACLE OF AUDIOPHILE PERFORMANCE

HEADPHONE AMPS GETTING THE FULL EXPERIENCEnew for summerGAMING HEADPHONES GET IN THE GAME

VISIT

OURP

REMIER

SPON

SO
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After we first published the Head-Fi Holiday Gift Guide, some

people asked me if I could make it more accessible, particularly

for non-Head-Fiers who might happen upon it. And while I may

think of ways to do that in future updates, the Head-Fi Gift Guide

is mostly for the more diehard Head-Fiersthe ones who probably

wont need to look up the definition of IEM, 24/192, DAC,

FLAC, XLR, or opamp. Of course, Id be thrilled if non-Head-

Fiers also find the guide interesting, but at its core, this gift guide

is for us, the denizens of the Head-Fi communitythe hardcore

headphone audio enthusiasts.

With each update (and were planning on doing at least two

updates per year), new products will be added to the guide; and

some may also be removed, as theyre value-bumped by the

introduction of better such products, or discontinued.

And, again, the Head-Fi Gift Guide is in no way intended to be

an encyclopedia of all the worlds headphone hi-fi products; but,

rather, a look at some of this communitys favorite products as

gift ideas. And, in most cases (unless otherwise indicated), the

products in the guide will be products I have direct experience

using and listening to.

I hope you find the Head-Fi Gift Guide helpful and fun!

Best Regards,

Jude MansillaFOUNDER, HEAD-FI.ORG

Founders Letter

JUDE MANSILLA
http://hifiman.com/


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OVER-EARHEADPHONES

N-EARHEADPHONES

WIRELESSHEADPHONES

HEADPHONEAMPS& OTHER GEAR)

SUMMITFI

eaturettes

GAMINGHEADSETS

POWERCORNER

HEADPHONECABLES

DESKTOPAUDIO

PORTABLEDEVICES

PAGE 74

BE HEARD.

From new breeds teeming withaudiophile potential, to old classicswe know and love, this selection of

over-the-ear headphones will keepyour favorite tracks playing loudand clear.

05


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SONY MDR-V6Closed, full-size, on-the-ear headphone (around $65)www.sony.com

If youre wondering why this headphone is included in the guide, call it a bit of sentimentality from methe SonyMDR-V6 was the headphone that got me started on this long, winding headphone hi-fi j ourney back in the 1980s.

Is it the best at the price? No, and hasnt been in a long time. You can find headphones that isolate more, sound morerefined, have better detail retrieval, etc.

Yeah, its old, but its still a rugged, well -isolating, fun, bright, livel y sounding headphone with good bass extensionand impact. The MDR-V6 (and its pro-audio twin, the Sony MDR-7506) is still widely used in studios and on-locationas a pro monitoring piece.

This many years later, I still like the classic ol V6, and still feel comfortable recommending it from time to time.

...the V6 has aged very well... It is well-built, comfortable, and isolating enough to compete with the best modernstudio and DJ headphones.

Head-Fi member/reviewer ljokerl

GRADO SR-60i AND GRADO SR-80iOpen, full-size, on-the-ear headphones (around $60 and $80, respectively)www.gradolabs.com

Why have I listed boththe Grado SR-60i and the SR-80i? Because, so often, SR-60i owners end up quickly upgradingto the SR-80i.

After many years being happy with the Sony MDR-V6, the Grado SR-60 and SR-80 represented the next steps in myHead-Fi journey. These entry-level Grado headphones have probably created more headphone audiophiles than anyother headphone models, for their affordability, for their accessibility at many audio retail locations, and for their livelypresentations.

The Grado SR-60i and Grado SR-80i sound immediately impressive, addictive, especially to those who arent alreadygrizzled Head-Fi veterans.

Ive gifted several sets of Grado SR-60i and SR-80i headphones, and theyve been met with great smiles andenthusiasm every single time.

The best thing about the Grados is that they dont try to be a jack of all trades. They are absolutely stunning for whatthey are; clear, detailed, bright, and aggressive Rock cans. As far as I am concerned the SR60i really is one of thebest all-around values in personal audio.

Head-Fi member/reviewerljokerl

The Grado SR80 is a classic headphone. It has a classic style... It has been around virtually unchanged for years. Itis a superb entry to audiophile headphone listening.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Prog Rock Man

SONY MDR-ZX700Closed, full-size, on-the-ear headphone (around $120)www.sony.com

The MDR-ZX700s bass is energetic, yet controlled, which is a trait I dont think is common enough in affordable headphones. The MDR-ZX700s mids and highs are resolving without being edgy.

If youve heard the Shure SRH440, but felt it on the colder side of your tonal preferences, then the Sonys more aubass (and a slightly warmer tilt than the Shure) might be more your speed.

I consider the MDR-ZX700 a sort of modern spin by Sony on its classic Sony MDR-V6a more current, affordableheadphone, and another classic in the making.

The bass-midrange balance of the ZX700 is a bit better than that of the V6, making the transition appear smoo

the general signature more balanced. Indeed, I couldnt think of a better term for the overall sound of the ZX7well-blended as the sound signature really does sit better with me than the sum of its parts.... Punchy and wawith excellent resolution and a strong midrange presence, the Sonys make for good all-rounders... the sound sigsimply works when taken as a whole.


AUDIO-TECHNICA ATH-M50Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $160)www.audio-technica.com

Im including the closed-back ATH-M50 in this guide because it is a veryfavorite in this price range with Head-Fiers, known for solid overall perfoat the price, with a tendency toward bass emphasis and sparkly treble. I headphones recommended as often by our community, both for starters lgood entry into Head-Fidom, as well as for seasoned Head-Fiers looking

closed around-the-ear headphone.

The ATH-M50 is one of those rare products where the quality/price ratio

the sweet spot, and in fact is like a small miracle in the world of pro aud

get Grammy Award-winning audio engineers and producers like George M

Frank Filipetti, Al Schmitt, etc., singing its praises publicly, you know its

something special.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Rob Chang (Lunatique)
http://www.sony.com/http://www.gradolabs.com/http://www.sony.com/http://www.audio-technica.com/http://www.audio-technica.com/http://www.sony.com/http://www.gradolabs.com/http://www.sony.com/


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SENNHEISER HD 558 AND SENNHEISER HD 598Open, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $190 and $250, respectively)www.sennheiser.com

For a nice open-backed full si ze headphone in this price range, Sennheisers HD 558 is one of the best choices Ive comeacross. Lightweight, and well padded, the HD 558 is among the most comfortable headphones Ive owned (at any price),and Ive owned a lot of headphones.

And, thankfully, the HD 558 sounds as good as it is comfortable, projecting a wide, open sonic image. Though its basspresentation is more on the neutral side, theres still a sense of fullness down low. Smooth, yet with outstanding detailoverall, is how Id characterize this headphone.

The HD 598 is like an HD 558 that went to sonic finishing schoolsimply put, its more refined. Most noticeable is thatthe HD 598s presentation is slightly more treble-tilted, and its bass more controlled. The HD 598s more polished sound

signature is, to my ears, higher-end, and earns the difference in price between it and its mid-line sibling.

I also lovethe HD 598s entirely unique color schemeno other headphone Im aware of looks like it, with its cream-colored leather-like chassis, and dark brown faux burl wood trim and velour ear cushions.

There is just too much to like about the HD598. I classify it as the best all-rounder, multi-purpose headphone that I

have ever had the privilege to listen to. Its just one of those headphones that are a joy to own, because there is always

something that it can be great at. And its flexible enough that it can *always* be used for something, if not everything.

Whether using it for its superb long term comfort, utilizing its expansive soundstage to gain an edge in gaming, or just

simply to enjoy tunes with its very special sound signature; the HD598 is sure to impress just about anyone in some

aspect or another. Quite the achievement by Sennheiser if you ask me.

Head-Fi memberKatun

PSB M4U 2Closed, full-size, active-noise-canceling, around-the-ear headphone ($399)www.psbspeakers.com

Paul Bartons company (PSB) is well known with audio enthusiasts as a loudspeaker company whose products typicallyperform well above their price points. When I found out Barton wanted to turn his attention to headphones (as anincreasing number of loudspeaker manufacturers are doing), he had my attention.

The M4U 2 is an impressive first go at headphones for Barton. First of all, it also operates passively, and in this mode theM4U 2 sounds very good, with some well-executed low bass emphasis, and good clarity throughout. The M4U 2 also hasan amplified mode withoutactive noise canceling, which could come in handy if all youve got on hand is a particularlyanemic headphone output. This amplified mode has a lively sound, but at the expense of a little self-noise from the

amp circuit, and some loss of clarity (compared to its passive mode). The M4U 2s active noise canceling circuit is good(though definitely not as effective as the Bose QC15s). And, again, like Sennheisers active noise-cancelers ( and unlikeBoses), the M4U 2 also operates passively, so that when your batteries die, youre music need not be cast aside.

The biggest downsides for me are the M4U 2s size (its large) and the fact that it doesnt fold flat (so the carrying caseis bulky). And, though the M4U 2 is rather comfortable on my huge head, it doesnt feel as light and gentle on the head(in terms of both weight and clamping force) as the QC15. It also has an imposing look on the head--rather heavy andsevere looking.

Simply put, with its active modes turned off, the PSB M4U 2 is a good 32-ohm closed headphone that responds wellto good portable and desktop amps, and yet can still be driven well directly from my iPhone 4S. Its self-amplified andactive noise canceling modes are ni ce bonuses. If youre in the market for a good over-ear travel headphoneand soundquality is your primary concernthe PSB M4U 2 should definitely be placed on your list of candidates.

BOSE QUIETCOMFORT 15Closed, full-size, active-noise-canceling, around-the-ear headphone ($299)www.bose.com

The Bose QuietComfort 15 has the most effective active noise cancellation circuit Ive yet used; and, for an activecanceler, this headphone sounds pretty good, too. If the amount of active noise attenuation is your primary considQC15 would be my top recommendationits uncannily good in this regard.

Musically, the QC15 sounds good, too; but, if youre used to ultra-high-end headphones (like ones we more typicaHead-Fi in this price range), the QC15 is not likely to wow you with its musical output while sitting in a quiet roomor in your easy chair. Use i t in its element (plane, train, data center, any place with loud droning background noisvery hard over-ear headphone to top.

Additionally, the Bose QC15 is exceptionally comfortable, even on my huge head, with its very moderate clampingsoft cushy earpads, and light weight. The QC15 also folds very flat into its compact semi-hardside case, so its ea

If youre type of person who travels a bunch, but cant get comfortable with in-ear headphones, then t he QC15 hato your must-try list. As far as over-ear headphones go, the Bose QC15 is my current first choice for international

SKULLCANDY ROC NATION AVIATORClosed, full-size, around-the-ear headphones (around $150)www.skullcandy.com

The Skullcandy Aviator, in my opinion, is one of the coolest looking headphones on the head, though it takes somespirit to pull it off.

Sonically, I think the Aviator holds its own as a portable headphone, even at $150, with its surprisi ngly even-hanpresentation (surprising considering rapper Jay Z had something to do with it), and a nice open sound. That openat the expense of isolation, which the Aviator is devoid of (despite technically being a closed headphone)so, inisolation, assume it similar to an open headphone.

I prefer the Aviators better when it comes to overall sound quality/clarity. Especially if youre listening to rock/a

alternative... They also scale up with a better source and are light and comfortable...

Head-Fi member Roma (Roma101)

SKULLCANDY MIX MASTER MIKEClosed, full-size, around-the-ear headphones (around $250)www.skullcandy.com

The Mix Master Mike is a DJ-type headphone (designed in conjunction with its legendary DJ namesake), with a cofeatures. DJs often do one-ear listening, so the Mix Master Mike sums both channels to mono when either earpiecfor one-ear listening. The single-side headphone cable can be plugged into either the left or right earpiece. And theres a

The Mix Master Mikes prominent (but not overwhelming) bass, good mids, and softer treble, all combine nicely foeasy-to-listen to sound signature that is modestly detailed. Overall, I think the Mix Master Mike is the most refineSkullcandy headphone so far. Build quality seems good, but rather plasticky in the hand. The Mix Master Mike misell, though, to Head-Fiers at $250, a price point at which many outstanding headphones reside. But I think its size closed headphone consideration, even at the price.
http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.psbspeakers.com/http://www.bose.com/http://www.skullcandy.com/http://www.skullcandy.com/http://www.bose.com/http://www.psbspeakers.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/


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V-MODA CROSSFADE M-80 AND CROSSFADE LP2Closed, portable...M-80 is on-the ear, and the LP2 is around-the-ear

(both around $200)www.v-moda.com

In the past year, V-MODAs M-80 has earned a place as one of the top choicesfor a closed, portable, around-the-ear headphone (alongside the likes of theSennheiser HD 25-1 II and the beyerdynamic DT 1350).

The M-80s sound signature includes rich, detailed mids, accompanied bysmooth treble response, and full bass (with emphasis placed where I think any

bass emphasis should be, which is down in the deep-bass region). Its a soundsignature that many audiophiles have found very easy to love, and with enoughof a down-low kick to also satisfy the more typical non-Head-Fier consumertastes. (I find most non-audiophile consumers tend to prefer bass emphasis toneutrality.)

On sonics alone, I think the M-80 is entirely in HD 25-1 II and DT 1350 territory.That the M-80 sounds so good and looks so stylish is a hugewin. I think its one ofthe headphones that will force the makers of its more conservatively styled (read:staidlystyled) competitors to take notice.

The full-size Crossfade LP2 is a refinement of V-MODAs Crossfade (which, bythe way, is still available), taming the original Crossfades very heavy bass, andadding in more present, more detailed treble. Despite the refinements (relativeto the original Crossfade), the LP2 is still a bass-heavy headphone, and a finechoice for a travel headphone for those who dont like in-ears or active noise-cancelers. (In noisy environments, I like some bass emphasis, to help strengthenthe sense of rhythm through the din.)

Like the original Crossfade, the Crossfade LP2 is a full-size around-the-earheadphone, and is verycomfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. Inaddition to their stunning looks, both the M-80 and LP2 are built verytough, andshould withstand much abuse. And, recently, V-MODA has improved i ts three-button remote/mic cable significantly, separating the mic unit from the remote(for ergonomic improvement) and improving sound quality on both the send andreceive sides. (This new cable is called the SpeakEasy cable.)

SHURE SRH440Closed, around-the-ear headphone (around $100)www.shure.com

A closed-back, pro-audio-oriented headphone, the SRH440 has found popularity f or studio use. However, manyaudiophiles also appreciate its more neutral tonal balance, the SRH440 having none of the bass bloat that manyclosed competitors have. Though a full-size headphone, it folds into a pretty compact, portable bundle.

At its street price of around $100, I think the Shure SRH440 is one of the better bargains in Head-Fidom, particubecause it can be challenging to find a good, affordable, neutral-ish closed headphone.

If you are looking for great closed headphones and are on a budget, my vote is for the Shure SRH-440 and no ot

Head-Fi member/reviewer gelocks

BEYERDYNAMIC DT 1350Closed, portable, on-the-ear headphone (around $300)

north-america.beyerdynamic.com

On sound alone, the beyerdynamic DT 1350 is my current favorite closed, portable around-the-ear headphone. Sosimply couldnt expect much more from something this compact, as the DT 1350 sounds to me like a very good fuclosed around-the-ear headphone.

This little beyerdynamic also seems durable enough to easily withstand the physical abuse of being crammed intbackpacks and messenger bags. The DT 1350 is part of beyerdynamics flagship Tesla line. Though it was designepro audio headphone, it still may be the most audiophile-friendly closed, portable around-the-ear Ive heard.

For portable use, its important to note that the DT 1350s plug housing is rather large (more like a full-size headpplug); and that it does not come with portable-use accoutrements like inline remote or a headset mic. Yes, Id lovhave those features, but, still, its sound quality currently puts the DT 1350 in my on-the-go bag very frequently.

Superb build quality and unprecedented isolation meet sound quality that can rival t he best portable headphoIve heard and many full-size sets. The construction is nothing short of bulletproof and - soundstage size aside DT1350 is technically the best truly portable headphone Ive come across, boasting superb detail and clarity, exbass control, and a level signature.


FISCHER AUDIO FA-003Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $180)

www.fischeraudio.com

A verywell-regarded, affordable closed headphone on Head-Fi.org, Ive only heard the FA-003 briefly ( and it madefirst impression). While I await more personal experience with this headphone, heres what veteran Head-Fi membreviewer, re-masterer LFF had to say about it:

They are light, comfy and sound fantastic. These are mastering grade headphones and I wouldnt hesitate for second to recommend them for such critical sound applications. The sonic picture the FA-003s painted time afnever failed to impress me.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Luis Flores (LFF)

Packaging and accessories are brilliant. Build

quality is top notch and very fitting for a portable

model. Comfort, a subjective thing to be sure, is

better (for me) than any similar type of headphone

Ive ever tried. These things alone add up to a

great user experience, even if that was all the

M-80s had going for them... And then theres the

sound. Large, solid, impactful bass that mostly

stays well controlled. Warm, full mids that makeany genre seem engaging. And a smooth balanced

top end that is reasonably detailed but extremely

forgiving of poor material or equipment. I enjoy

these. A lot. Even at home when I have plenty of

better options, these are still fun to listen to. That

seems like a successful product to me.

Head-Fi member/reviewer John Grandberg (project86)

0
http://www.v-moda.com/http://www.shure.com/http://north-america.beyerdynamic.com/http://www.fischeraudio.com/http://www.fischeraudio.com/http://north-america.beyerdynamic.com/http://www.shure.com/http://www.v-moda.com/


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SENNHEISER HD 25-1 II AND HD 25-1 II ORIGINALSClosed, portable, on-the-ear headphone (around $180 to $250)www.sennheiser.com

One of the all-time headphone hi-fi classics, the Sennheiser HD 25-1 II is still the top choice for a closed,portable on-the-ear headphone for manyHead-Fiers. Its one of my all-time favorites in that category.

With robust bass, relatively neutral mids, and a lively treble, the HD 25-1 II is definitely on the funside of theaudiophile-type sound signatures.

With an extremely tough build (yet still lightweight), the Sennheiser HD 25-1 II remains a popular DJ headphonefor its bombproof durability, outstanding isolation, and retro-hip utilitarian looks. And if you want one of thegrooviest looking portable headphone choices around, pick up the Originals version, which is a special adidasco-branded edition--same headphone, but with very cool, sporty adidas blue stripes, cable, and pads.

These cans are tried and true, with a great all-rounder sound. Good energy throughout, the bottom endprovides a nice driving rhythm and the top end is tuned for just the right amount of shimmer with hi hats.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Armaegis

SENNHEISER AMPERIORClosed, portable, on-the-ear headphone (around $350)www.sennheiser.com

Despite the new name, theres no denying that t he new Amperior by Sennheiser was born of the Sennheiser HD25 line of headphones--I mean, just lookat it. And if you consider the Amperior a new addition to the HD 25family, then its the best sounding HD 25 Ive yet heard. The occasional tendency of the HD 25-1 II to be treble-peaky has been done away with in the Amperior. The Amperior also refines the HD 25s bass, exhibiting greatercontrol and definition. That the Amperior has a nominal impedance of only 18 ohms, and is quite sensitive,makes it easy to drive straight from your phone or media player. No amp? No problem. Not surprisingly, theAmperior has become one of my favorite grab-and-go over-ear headphones.

Construction quality feels every bit as solid as the HD 25s before it. Actually, its substantial use of metal makesit feel even more unyielding than the HD 25s before it. Its machined solid aluminum earcups feel bulletproof,and look verycool, in either blue or silver.

My only real quibble with the Amperior is that it comes with a 3-button remote/mic accessory dongle--Idhave preferred that its cable instead had an in-line, built-inversion. Also, like beyerdynamics DT 1350, the

Amperiors plug housing is quite large. But these are just minor quibbles with a headphone that sounds andlooks so darn good.

A worthy addition to the legacy of the HD 25 family, I think the Sennheiser Amperior is going to be a blockbusterheadphone with high-end headphone enthusiasts.

2

SENNHEISER PX 90 AND PX 200-IIPortable, on-the-ear headphones(PX 90 is open, PX 200 is closed. Priced around $30 and $90, respectively)www.sennheiser.com

The Sennheiser PX 90 has a charming, no-frills design. With the simplest of headbands, affixed to which are equally unadorned openearpieces, the PX 90 reminds me of the legendary (and equally stark) HD 414.

What you get for around $30 with the PX 90 is an elegant, well-balanced sounding headphone thats great for on-the-go use. I f youre aHead-Fier with several people on your gift list youd like to introduce to Head-Fidom, the PX 90 is an excellent, affordable choice.

The PX 200-II is an easy go-to for a portable around-the-ear headphone under $100 with a more neutral sound si gnature. If youve foundmost portable around-the-ears too bass-heavy for you, put the PX 200-II at the top of your list, especially if you want something ultra-portable. A closed, on-the-ear design, the PX 200-II provides good passive noise isolation, too.

(The PX 200-II is now also available with a three-button remote/mic cable, and that model is the PX 200-IIi, and is priced around $110.)

The PX200-II therefore has all the hallmarks of a critical and commercial success usability, excellent sonic characteristics, and a

respected name to back it all up - and will likely become more popular than the famed PX100 in the near future...


HIFIMAN HE-400Open, full-size, around-the-ear headphone ($399)www.hifiman.us

I wondered when something would come round to challenge the Sennheiser HD 600 and HD 650 for my top pick in the sub-$500 sit-down,high-end headphone category, and that something is the HE-400 planar magnetic headphone by HiFiMAN. Listen to this headphone,and its $399 price tag will have you wondering if its price was mismarkedlike you found something in the clearance bin that wasntsupposed to be there.

If the HD 600 and HD 650 arent pressing your sparkly-treble hot-button, the HE-400 probably will. Bringing to bear a lot of what makesthe higher-end planar magnetic headphones by HiFiMAN and Audeze so specialbut with a bargain price, and enough sensitivity to bedriven by an iPhone 4S in a pinchthe HE-400 is one of the easiest sub-$500 recommendations to make ri ght now.

Soaring, shimmering treble, and a greater sense of overall speedcertainly more so than any over-ear in this price range that Iveheardare the HE-400s hallmarks.

CREATIVE LABS AURVANA LIVE!Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $70)www.creative.com

Creative Labs has been discussed a lot on Head-Fis forums, particularly their audio/MIDI interface products. Of their slew of headphoneproducts, though, one routinely shines t hrough with frequent member recommendations, and thats the Creative Aurvana Live.

...the CAL!s are bass-heavy headphones with a very rich-sounding midrange and a warm tonality. However, the Creatives boast better

clarity in the (far less forward) midrange and a more dimensional sound - the soundstage has some depth in addition to the width. They

are more laid back and balanced and at the same time a l ittle faster when the music calls for it. The bass is textured, fairly well-controlled,

and surprisingly deep (capable of dropping below 30Hz).

http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.hifiman.us/http://www.creative.com/http://www.creative.com/http://www.hifiman.us/http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/


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BOWERS & WILKINS P5 MOBILEAND BLUEANT EMBRACEClosed, portable, on-the-ear headphones ($299 and $199)www.bowers-wilkins.comwww.myblueant.com

Another good around-the-ear passive isolator is the ber-stylish Bowers & Wilkins P5 Mobile.The P5 looks like something crafted by Swiss watchmakers. The P5 is so luxurious that yourfingers never come in contact with anything but metal or soft leather.

And the P5s style continues with its appearance when worn, its lines el egant and graceful,but bold enough to be tastefully noticeable.

How does the P5 sound? It doesnt quite have the sound quality and detail of the topaudiophile portables, but it still sounds very good, with a sonic signature best described assmooth. The Bowers & Wilkins P5 does provide extremely effective noise isolation (passively),inline controls and headset microphone, and so is a fantastic, voguish travel headphone.

Following is a quote from my review of the Bowers & Wilkins P5:

That the stunning looking P5 is such a huge hit isnt the least bit surprising to me. Iabsolutely lovethis headphone, for what it is.If $299 is just too much a stretch for you--but the allure of the P5 is too strong to resist--consider the BlueAnt Embrace, which I suspect may have been inspired by the P5.

From the standpoint of design, the Embrace looks like the P5s more conservative, less

extravagant sibling. The leather used on the Embrace isnt as fancy or supple as the P5s, butthe Embraces padding in the headband and earpads i s more abundant, and supercushionyits earpads are like fluffy pillows. I have to give the Embrace the edge in comfort.

In terms of sound, I prefer the P5s brand of smoothness to the Embraces, although theEmbraces warm signature (with mid-bass emphasis) and reasonable level of detail is bothpleasant and fun. For its first foray into premium wired headphones, the Embrace i s animpressive effort by BlueAnt (a company known for its Bluetooth headsets).

The P5s artisanal materials, fit, finish and style make

for a headphone that many of its owners will be proud

to own. Its delicate lines and light weight belie its

vault-strong construction. Almost a year later, and I

still love handling and wearing the P5. Something this

gorgeous, this well crafted, does instill that sense of

pride of ownership that one might feel owning, say, a

beautiful wristwatch.

KOSS PORTAPROOpen, portable, on-the-ear headphones (around $40 for standard version, and around $80 for the KTC version)www.koss.com

Theres something--a certainje ne sais quoithat makes Koss PortaPro timeless. Its not just its looks, as looks might render the mighty PortaPro dated (though theres no denying its vintage aesthetic is part of its charm).

This is a bassy headphone, and its bass defines it--heavy, just shy of sloppy by audiophile standards, but always fDespite its bassiness, the PortaPro still manages to sound coherent. Its mids and highs are good, but if youre looa mid-centric and/or bright headphone, youre going to have to look elsewhere. Also, if youre a detail freak, walk pPortaPro.

This year, Koss also released a version of the PortaPro called the PortaPro KTC (Koss Touch Control), which has anthree-button remote/mic. As an iPhone/iPad/iPod user, the KTC version has become my PortaPro of choice. I was sto see Koss give such a concession to smartphone modernity with a headphone as old school as the PortaPro, but thrilled they did. Heres the rub, though: expect to pay at least $30 to $40 more for the KTC version, which Im guesprobably due to licensing costs associated with using the made-for-Apple three-button mic/remot e design.

Looking for fun sound on the go? And served up with retro-hip style? Put the Koss PortaPro on your list.

The PortaPro is an age old design, but has held up over the years, despite newer portable cans coming along. Peris the very age of the design that keeps people coming back to it... The sound is fun. The PortaPros have a nice, pusound, and great bass for a small supra-aural set of phones.

Head-Fi member/reviewer TheWuss

KOSS PRODJ100Closed, full-size, portable, around-the-ear headphone (around $80)www.koss.com

Based on recommendations in Head-Fi community discussions, Im glad I finally experienced this headphone for mits not just one of the best value Koss headphones Ive heard, I think its one of the better headphone values in th$100 range, regardless of manufacturer.

Was this headphone designed with DJs in mind? Yes. Theres even a switch on it that le ts you sum both channels for one-ear listening. But do notlet that DJ label trick you into thinking the PRODJ100 is a boomy, bloated headpDJ designated headphones more typically tend to be. The bass is impactful, but in no way overdone.

The PRODJ100 is a headphone that does a lot of things very well, even if it doesnt (to my ears) do anything excepwell. Youll be hard pressed to find another sub-$100 headphone that is so well-rounded, and so able t o easily sata wide variety of listening preferences. If the Shure SRH440 is a bit light in the bass for you, try the Koss PRODJ10the entry-level Grados a little too lively up top for you? Try the PRODJ100. You know what, just try the PRODJ100 reof whatever other relatively affordable headphones you were already considering.

The best thing about this headphone is the quality of vocals. It just sounds amazing with both male and female vofeel like youre right there.

Head-Fi member/reviewer tdockweiler

4
http://www.bowers-wilkins.com/http://www.myblueant.com/http://www.koss.com/http://www.koss.com/http://www.koss.com/http://www.koss.com/http://www.myblueant.com/http://www.bowers-wilkins.com/


11/42

Lets go waaay back to 2011, when Head-Fi turned a hear ty ten yearsold. Up to that point, in millions of posts, in untold thousands ofthreads, in ten years of online headphone chatter, Philips rarely cameup in our discussions. Almost never, actually. Then, at CES 2012,from seemingly out of nowhere, Philips unveiled several headphonesthat hit it out of the park. Were talking reallygood headphones here.

Affordable. Awesome. Headphones.

The ones that wowed me the most were a few of their new over-earmodels. The first two are from an affordable premium line of urbanheadphones called CitiScape. The CitiScape Downtown (around $100)is a closed on-the-ear model very uniquely styled, with a headbandwrapped in a padded cloth that looks like an elegant cravat, andearpieces wrapped in a nice synthetic leather. The look, inspired byNew York casual street style, is graceful, modish, and suitable for menand women alike. The Downtown is also one of the most comfortableon-the-ear headphones Ive used.

The Downtown also sounds great, with a warmish tonal balance, butstill nicely detailed throughout. Bass is impactful, precise beyondthe price point, and emphasized mildly. Mids are smooth and nicelypresent. Treble is on the softer side, but theres enough of it to givejust a hint of sparkle. Closed though it is, the Downtown images well,too. At around $100, the Philips CitiScape Downtown is quite possiblymy favorite closed on-the-e ar headphone at or under $100, providingmusicality and balance at a level wellabove its price, and with allgenres I listen to.

The Philips CitiScape Uptown (around $150) is the slightly upmarketsibling of the Downtown, and is a closed around-the-ear headphone.Like the Downtown, the Uptown is stylish, albeit with a completelydifferent, retro-cool style. The abundance of synthetic leather is nicelooking, and attractively tuf ted on the headbands underside.

Tonally, the Uptown, like the Downtown, has a warmer tendency, butdoes have the advantage of having a touch more sparkle in the treble.Like its sibling, the Uptown images nicely. Having used the Downtownmore at the beginning, switching to the Uptown r evealed more of aclosed-cup resonance than is present with the Downtown. Its minorenough, though, that its easy to hear past as you get accustomed tothe Uptown. Sonically, which do I prefer, the Downtown or Uptown?Truth be told, its a toss-up for me. I also really like the Uptown, andrecommend it easily at its $150 price, but I think the Downtown at only$100 is the even easier recommendation.

Both the Downtown and the Uptown have a feature called MusicSeal,which is intended to keep the music in the headphone, and not

leaking out to bother those nearby. I havent examined or inquiredto find out exactly how it works, but MusicSeal doeswork (and alworks to provide good isolation from outside noise). And both theDowntown and the Uptown use flat, tangle-resistant fixed cablesDowntowns cable has an inline one-button remote/mic. The Uptocable also has an inline one-button remote/mic, but with the

unfortunate addition of a useless analog super-short-throw slidinvolume control. I have no idea how such a useless volume contromade it past testing on the otherwise wonderfully executed Uptowbut its hardly enough to dash my re commendation of it.

A huge piece of news, in my opinion, is that the Philips Citicapeline is slated to appear in not just big box electronics stores, butalso through some major department stores. That kind of channepresence is big news with headphones that sound this good.

Fidelio is Philips flagship audio brand, and the Philips Fidelio L(around $300) is the first of the Fidelio headphones. The Fidelio Lis, in my opinion, maybe the single best looking sub-$500 headpon the market today. To my eyes, theres no angleon the head off the headfrom which the Fidelio L1 doesnt look stunning. Ait feelsjust as impressive, with extensive use of real leather, protleather and aluminum. The design is a near-perfect blend of modand retro, and I still look admiringly at the L1 every single time I use

Coming from the left earpiece is a very short length of fixed cablewhich can be attached two differ ent headphone cable options, onplain, and one with a three-button remote/mic. By the way, the Lthree-button remote/mic cable is one of the best of its types thatyet used, with easily distinguishable buttons, and nice positive cl(The Fidelio L1 cables are fabric-lined.)

The Fidelio L1s sound signature is definitely on the warmer side,

but more refined, more polished than its CitiScape siblings. The Lbass is well north of neutral, but controlled enough to keep a lot the audiophile types happy. The mids are bloomysmooth; and the treble has nice presence (though Id prefer a moextended sounding higher register). No, the Fidelio L1 is not a defreaks dream headphone, but still I find it, overall, a verysatisfyheadphone to listen to.

As far as headphones go, this is definitely a breakout year for PhilipsAnd, again, given the retail presence Philips has, these new headphoare potentially very important for the industry, not just for Philips

PHILIPS CITISCAPE DOWNTOWN, PHILIPS CITISCAPE UPTOWN, AND PHILIPS FIDELIO L1CitiScape Downtown: Closed, full-size, on-the-ear headphone (around $150)

CitiScape Uptown: Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $150)

Fidelio L1: Semi-open, full-size, around-the-ear headphone (around $300)

www.philips.com

PHIATON MS400Closed, portable, around-the-ear headphone (around $230)www.phiaton.com

Phiaton makes some of the most striking looking headphones, and the MS 400 is, to my eyes, the most fetching of theirmany eye-catching designs. In a world littered with faux carbon fiber, Phiaton elected to use realcarbon fiber, along withan abundance of striking Ferrari-esque red l eather.

Fortunately, the MS400 also sounds good.

Ive worn dozens of different headphones to work in the past several years and none of them gathered as dense of astream of interest, comments, and compliments as the Phiatons do. But of course even in a portable set sound qualityshould come first and the smooth and easy-going sound of the MS400 is very appealing in a portable. Like Ultrasoneand AKG, Phiaton seems to understand that bass notes are the first to get drowned out on a busy city street, and theMS400 do a great job of compensating. Those in search of a more analytical signature should probably look elsewhere.For an involving, convenient, and strikingly beautiful audio experience on the go, however, the Phiatons come highlyrecommended.


SENNHEISER HD 600 AND HD 650Open, full-size, around-the-ear headphones (around $400 and $500, respectively)www.sennheiser.com

Is there a more widely owned and lauded pair of headphones than the Sennheiser HD 6XX series in the world of high-endaudio? And all the acclaim for these headphones is absolutely deserved, earned over manyyears on the market. TheSennheiser HD 600 and HD 650 both have sonic performance that can scale so far up in world-class rigs, I struggled withwhether or not to include them in the Summit-Fi (high-end audio) section instead.

Though detailed, both the HD 600 and HD 650 do not have the hyperdetail that some of the newer breed of high-enddynamic headphones have. Still, when Im listening to them, I dont find myself longing for more (even though I knowheadphones like its successor flagship HD 800 can cert ainly give me more).

I think the magic of these headphones is that, in terms of detail and tonality, they can be like listening to goodloudspeakers, and theres instant comfort in that. Some find this overly laid-back, but Im not one of them.

As for what differentiates these two headphones, the HD 650 is the slightly warmer of the two, and yet I personally find itmore refined than the HD 600, especially in the upper registers. Theres no question that there are more similarities thandifferences, so if youre already straining your budget, you can feel comfortable choosing the HD 600 to save some dough.

In my experience, getting the best out of the HD 600 and HD 650 absolutely requires the use of good headphoneamplification, so make sure to feed em right.

I quite like the Sennheiser sonic signaure, which many people refer to as being relaxed, or veiled. I think of it as beingvery smooth and non-offensive. The treble and upper mids never get fatiguing or too bright, and the overall tonal balanceis very good, with nothing sticking out or recessed in any of the frequency ranges.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Rob Chang (Lunatique)

6
http://www.philips.com/http://www.phiaton.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.phiaton.com/http://www.philips.com/


12/42

ET IN THE GAME.

ile my avid gaming days haveg since passed, I still enjoying my laptops video card

mething to overheat about frome to time. Favoring first-person

ooters, imaging is important;as rusty as I am with games

wadays, its mostly so that Iow precisely from which directionath is raining down on me. (Io use the headsets for telephonyd software speech recognition

tation.)

e are three headsets I feelmfortable reccomending.

ASTRO GAMING A30Closed, on-the-ear headset (around $130)www.astrogaming.com

Popular with serious gamersboth amateurs and tournament players alikeAstro Gamings iconicflaghip, the enormous A40, is probably the single most recognizable gaming headset in the world. Foraudio enthusiasts who only dabble in gaming, though, Id instead recommend the A40s littler sibling, theAstro Gaming A30.

Versus the A40, the A30s sound signature, for music listening, is more balanced, more clear. And,actually, even for gaming, I prefer the littler Astro, in terms of imaging and clarity (especially throughthe upper mids and treble). The only thing I personally favor the A40s more for is comfort, the A40 beingaround-the-ear, and the A30 being on-the-earbut, still, f or an on-the-ear headphone, the A30 is

comfortable.

If youve seen the A40, you know that, even packed into its carrying case, its huge. The A30, however,folds flat, and tucks nicely into a reasonably compact carrying case. The A30 is also just a little over halfthe weight of the A40.

The design of the A30 is, to my eyes, very attractive for a headset, even with its boom microphoneattached. I also find it comfortable to wear for long sessions, although Id prefer earpad material with asofter touch on the skin.

The A30s boom microphone is outstanding, specifically in terms of vocal clarity, which makes it greatnot just for communicating in a network gaming environment, but also for internet telephony, and speechrecognition dictation. (I get uncanny accuracy with the A30s microphone with Dragon Dictate.) It simportant to note, however, that the A30s microphone is tuned specifically for voice cl arity, and is not afull range microphoneI would not recommend it as a podcasting headset.

8

BEYERDYNAMIC MMX 300Closed, full-size, around-the-ear headset (around $400)www.beyerdynamic.com

This imposing headset from beyerdynamic has earned many accolades wit h gamers everywhere, for combining thesound quality and durability of beyerdynamics famed DT family of audiophile and pro audio headphones, along the expertise in headset communications from beyerdynamics aviation headset products.

The MMX 300 is among the most serious looking of all the gaming headsets Ive seen. It may be built for somethinfun (gaming), but its styling seems to suggest very clearly that the MMX 300 is stony-faced serious about doing itjob very well.

Like the Astro A30, the MMX 300 is a closed headphone, but offers substantially more isolation than the A30 (andgiven its around-the-ear design, substantially more comfort, too). Its important to keep in mind that its also a ve

large headset that doesnt fold flat, and, even though its case is nice, the MMX 300 is still going to take up a lot ospace in your bag (assuming it fits in there at all).

The MMX 300 comes with a nice, small detachable in-line USB DAC with volume control and mute button. I like thUSB converters (my Sennheiser PC 166 USB came with one), and wish all wired gaming headsets had them includ

My experience with the MMX 300 is quite limited so far, but first impressions included just what Id have expectedfrom beyerdynamic, which is excellent clarity, good bass, and brighter-than-neutral (but not edgy) top end. Also, tmicrophone on the MMX 300 has a wider frequency response than the A30s, so the sound from it is more broadbamore full, making the MM X 300 a candidate for podcasting duties.

I may have to add the MMX 300 to my arsenal as my primary closed headset of choice.

SENNHEISER PC 360 G4MEOpen, full-size, around-the-ear headset (around $250)www.sennheiser.com

What a lot of Head-Fiers dont know is just how much experience Sennheiser has with communications products.They make countless products at the center of which is voice clarity. And, like beyerdynamic, Sennheiser also makwell-regarded aviation headsets. Now take all of their experience with the aforementioned, and couple it to SennhHD5XX family sound. What do you have? A killer headset.

If youve heard the Sennheiser HD 55X headphones, you have some idea of what to expect from the PC 360 in termits sound signature with music. That kind of clarity and fidelity tr anslates well to gaming, and its no surprise to s

some of the most serious gamers choosing audiophile-quality pieces by Sennheiser as their headsets of choice.

Unfortunately, the PC 360 G4M E does not come with a USB adapter, which, again, I wish all premium wired headsincluded. Though I could live without it, Ill poach the one from my PC 166 USB to use with the PC 360 when I desiUSB connectivity.

I expect the Sennheiser PC 360 G4ME will be my primary open headset of choice.
http://www.astrogaming.com/http://www.beyerdynamic.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.koss.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.beyerdynamic.com/http://www.astrogaming.com/


13/42

CUSTOM IN-EAR

UNIVERSALFITBOUT CUSTOM-FIT

N-EAR MONITORS

e a bespoke suit, custom in-earnitors (IEMs) are made just for, molded to the exact shape ofr ears (usually by an audiologist).

d like a custom suit, custom IEMsexceptionally comfortable, and

ually trsexpensive. To my ears,best custom IEMs are some ofbest sounding headphones of

y type currently available.

ichever custom you choose,ect to pay about an additional

0.00 to get molds of your earsde at a local audiologist (that you then send in to the IEM maker).

21

26ULTIMATE EARS PERSONALREFERENCE MONITORClosed, custom-voiced custom in-ear monitors ($2,000)www.logitech.com/ue

A custom-fit IEM is custom-molded toyourears, so it will fit only one person in the world perfectlyyou.One would think, then, that a custom-fit IEM is already as custom as it gets. Not anymore. Ultimate Earsrecently released what might reasonably be called a customcustom-fit IEMone in which the physicalfit isnt the only thing customized to fit you, but also the sonic fit. Its called the Ultimate Ears PersonalReference Monitor, and, as its name suggests, you tune it to your own personal sonic preferences.

To accommodate this level of customization, a higher level of personal service is required. Once an orderfor the Personal Reference Monitor is placed, the customer is assigned a personal service specialist to

guide him through the fitting, design, and custom-tuning of the Personal Reference Monitor. The custom-tuning of the Personal Reference Monitor involves a sit-down session with a device called the UltimateEars Personal Reference Tuning Box. To start, there will be four locations in the U.S. equipped with thePersonal Reference Tuning box, in Irvine (California), Los Angeles, Nashville, and New York City. If youdont happen to be lucky enough to be an easy trip away from one of these locations, Ultimate Ears iscurrently working on making the tuning experience more accessible, in more places.

Simply put, my right ear is better than my left one. My right ear has greater acuity through some of themids and treble than my left. It has been this way for years. Using the Personal Reference Tuning Box, Ituned my Personal Reference Monitor to help compensate for my left ears deficiency (versus my right).I also tuned the tonal balance to be neutralish, but with just a touch more bass than neutral, moreemphasis on the mids for greater midrange presence and bloom, and j ust a hairs breadth above neutralin the treble region. The resulting monitorsmy Personal Reference Monitoris now my favorite of allmy custom in-ear monitors, imaging better (perhaps because of the left-right compensation), and suitingmy preferences more closely than any other custom in-ear I currently have.

I strongly recommend the Ulti mate Ears Personal Reference Monitor for anyone whos wanted to trycompensating for differences between ones ears, and/or for anyone simply interested in reaching a higherlevel of customizability in custom in-ear monitors.

(For more details about the product and the process, click here.)
http://www.logitech.com/uehttp://www.head-fi.org/t/612445/ultimate-ears-personal-reference-monitors-the-custom-custom-in-ear-monitorhttp://www.head-fi.org/t/612445/ultimate-ears-personal-reference-monitors-the-custom-custom-in-ear-monitorhttp://www.logitech.com/ue


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ULTIMATE EARS CUSTOM IN-EAR REFERENCE MONITORClosed, custom in-ear monitors ($999)www.logitech.com/ue

As UE (Ultimate Ears) puts it, the three-drivers-per-side Custom In-Ear Reference Monitor is designed for professionalstudio engineers and producers for use during recording, mixing and mastering original music content. Other applicationsinclude front of the house venue tuning, live recording and mixing. This is also an excellent product for the audiophile orserious music listener because of its natural and authentic sound reproduction.

Given that description, it shouldnt be surprising that the IERM is the most neutral-sounding custom IEM Ive heard. Bothbass extension and treble extension sound excellent to me, the entire audioband presented without emphasis. The IERMis one of my neutral references, and perhaps the most neutral of all my headphones (regardless of type). As such, it is mysonic palate cleanserafter listening to more colored gear for extended periods, I can always count on the IERM to remind

me what neutral sounds like.

Imaging is also one of its strengths, the IERM edging out most of the other custom IEMs I use, in terms of presenting aconvincing, cohesive soundstage.

If youre in the market for a custom IEM, and pure neutrality is your goal, the IERM would be my first recommendation.

All in all the UERM has a place among the other custom IEMs I have heard in the price range as it offers a referencesound with an exceptional presentation; a combo I have not heard up to this point in a custom IEM. Combine that withthe accessories and cable and the UERM stands up well with the competition.

Head-Fi member/reviewer average_joe

WESTONE ES5Closed, custom in-ear monitors ($999)www.westonemusicproducts.com

If your tonal preference is more toward neutral, but not entirelyso, then Westones flagship five-drivers-per-side ES5 is afantastic choice. It is more neutral than the JH13 Pro, but with richer midrange than UEs IERM. In terms of detail retrieval,it is on par with the other flagships.

Other major selling points of the ES5 include its comfort and isolation. Westones ES series of custom IEMs all have theWestone heat-activated flex canal, which makes my ES5 one of the most comfortable IEMs Ive worn. That soft tip alsoresults in better isolation than most of my other custom-fit IEMs provide.

Also, Westones ES5 packaging is second-to-none, with a Pelican case, and a very cool dessicant cylinder fitted to theinterior of that case (to help keep your ES5 dry).

I would without a doubt recommend the Westone ES5 to anyone looking for a well balanced high-end custom IEM as Ifeel they are simply breathtaking.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Tronz

2

FITEAR MH334Closed, custom in-ear monitors ($1,800)fitear.jp

I thought I was aware of all the top custom-fit IEM makers. On a recent trip to Tokyo, however, the gentlemen at F(a store every Tokyo-bound Head-Fier must visit) asked me to listen to a demo model of the FitEar MH334. To sayI was impressed with what I heard. The next day, at the Tokyo Headphone Festival (which is put on by Fuji ya Avic)fitted for my very own custom MH334.

When it arrived, the build quality was the first thing I noticed, including the flawless bubble-free transparent maearpiece bodies and the well-dressed internal wiring.

Wearing the MH334 revealed the best isolating custom-fit IEM Ive yet used. I dont know if its particularly outstanisolation is due to a perfect fit, something specific to the MH334s construction, or both.

And the sound! Voiced by one of Japans top mastering engineers, the four-drivers-per-side MH334 is the best-soIEM I have heard driven straight from my iPhone 4S (compared to others driven similarly), a nearly perfect blend orevealing and smooth, impactful and balanced. Im looking forward to also using it in a wide variety of externally-portable rigs.

Currently available only direct from FitEar, the only negative Ive got for the FitEar MH334 is its price, which, as ofwriting, translates to $1908! Im hoping FitEar soon finds broader distribution, as they may be poised to shake ththe custom-fit IEM market, if this MH334 is any indication.

The detail and imaging is fantastic.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Sean (AnakChan)

These are some of the most transparent and linear IEMs Ive experienced. These are not basshead IEMs. They acolored or fun, but rather extremely accurate in conveying a recording. You wont get a single bit of extra bass beyond what is there in a given track. That being said, tracks with a lot of bass are still rendered well, and I thin334 handles most genres with ease.

Head-Fi member/reviewer MuppetFace
http://www.logitech.com/uehttp://www.westonemusicproducts.com/http://fitear.jp/http://fitear.jp/http://www.westonemusicproducts.com/http://www.logitech.com/ue


15/42

JH AUDIO JH13 PRO AND JH16 PROClosed, custom in-ear monitors (starting at $1,099 and $1,149, respectively)www.jhaudio.com

Only three years old, but already a legend, JH Audios JH13 Pro is coming up against several new competitors in the cost-no-object custom in-ear monitor realm, but its still the first custom IEM I recommend for those who arent quite sure whattheir preferred sound signature is. Why? Because I find most people prefer mildly emphasized bass, which the JH13 Prohas, along with neutral mids and treble, and quite possibly unmatched treble extension in an in-ear monitor. The JH13 Prosports six balanced armature drivers per side.

The JH16 Pro is the go-to custom for those who want more strongly emphasized bass (emphasis that Jerry Harvey madesure to tune way down low, as it should be, and in such a manner that it leaves the mids virtually untouched). The JH16Pro--because of that perfectly executed bass emphasis--is my go-to custom IEM for air or train travel, as extra bass is

always welcome in the din of those environments.

Each JH16 Pro earpiece contains eight balanced armature drivers. Yes, eight. How Jerry Harvey coaxes completecohesiveness from that many drivers (and, trust me, he does) is one of Head-Fis great mysteries, as far as Im concerned.

If you are in the market for a high-end headphone, stereo system, monitors for mixing, or custom IEMs, you shouldconsider the JH Audio JH 13 Pro. The accuracy and stereo i maging you get with the JH 13 Pros are worth every penny youcan find. I know that the JH 13 Pro will make people rethink their collective headphones, if not customs in general - Iknow I have.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Nicholas (Audiofiler)

The JH16 gives new meaning to bass with a performance that combines enhancement with dynamics, detail, punch,speed, and rumble. Instrument detail is plentiful across the spectrum with an added liquidity to the vocal range and anenhancement in the upper mids/lower treble that accentuates the clarity. Soundstage width is great and competes with/bests similarly priced custom IEMs I have heard.

Head-Fi member/revieweraverage_joe

4

UNIQUE MELODY MERLINClosed, custom in-ear monitors ($779)www.custom-iem.com

I havent yet heard anything made by Unique Melody. But the guys from UM came all the way from Australia to ex2011 CanJam @ Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in Denver; and several people whose ears I trust didlisten to their deDenver and told me very good things about what theyd heard.

I felt compelled, then, to search the forums to see how Unique Melody was faring within our community, and the avery well, to say the least.

One of their products that I find fascinating, in concept, is the Merlin custom-fit IEM. Sporting a driver combinatiois entirely unique to it, the Merlin has five drivers per side, four of which are balanced armatures, and one of whic

dynamic driver. The Merlin is promoted as a bit of a sidestep from [Unique Melodys] house sound signature andinto the world of unabated fun. The dynamic bass driver takes thi ngs down to 10Hz.

At RMAF, one of my buddies, grinning big, said of the Merlin, Did you hear the bass on those things?! I didnt, b

sure not to miss it next time.

This high end hybrid custom delivers on its promise of outstanding bass performance with very natural and webalanced mids and highs. Soundstage is phenomenal and t he entire presentation is somewhat unique.

Head-Fi member/reviewer John Grandberg (project86)
http://www.jhaudio.com/http://www.custom-iem.com/http://www.custom-iem.com/http://www.jhaudio.com/


16/42

WESTONE 4RClosed, in-ear monitor (around $500)www.westone.com

The Westone 4R is one of my favorite universal-fit IEMs (in-ear monitors), especially when Im looking for a more tonally flat soundsignature. And the 4Rs detail retrieval is outstanding from bottom to top.

Across the audioband, the Westone 4R does not provide any specific area of emphasis, and certainly no over-emphasis. Bassextends low, but without any extra weight imparted by the 4R. Though detailed throughout, I find the 4Rs midrange detail t obe one of its greatest strengths--again, without any emphasis imparted to achieve it. The treble balance is also excellent, withenough to provide some sparkle, but never enough to impart any edginess.

The 4R also is very comfortable to wear, with a surprisingly compact chassis (considering there are four drivers per side). Like

Westones other universal-fit IEMs, it sits very flat in the ear, which results in an IEM that can be worn while laying your headdown.

Put the Westone 4R at or near the top of your list if youre looking for a more neutral sound signature, but look elsewhere if youprefer tonal emphasis of any kind (like bumped-up bass), as thats not what this IEM is about.

I have both the Westone 4 and the Westone 4R, and they sound the same to me. From what I can tell, the key difference is that theWestone 4s cable is permanently affixed, whereas the 4Rs cable is detachable.

The new W4s find themselves at the top of BA universal heap, having Dynamic Driver quality timbre; Drums sound absolutelyamazing on the W4. If you are looking for superb balance and refined detail retrieval, give the Westone 4 a try!

Head-Fi member/reviewer Shawn (Shotgunshane)

PORTABLE HEADPHONE AMPS DESIGNED FOR IEMswww.ttvjaudio.com www.headamp.com www.raysamuelsaudio.com

In-ear monitors (whether universal-fit or custom-fit) often have a couple of thingsin common: high sensitivity and good isolation from ambient noise. This presentsan interesting challenge to those devices driving them.

Whether an external headphone amplifier or the built-in headphone output ofyour digital audio player (be it a dedicated portable media player or smartphone),many IEMs will quickly reveal any noise in the audio chain, as well as anychannel imbalance (especially at the lowest part of the volume range).

Three of most popular designed-for-IEM portable headphone amps in the Head-Fi

community are the TTVJ SLIM($349), HEADAMP PICO SLIM($399), and theRAY SAMUELS AUDIO SHADOW($395). These amps maintain perfect channelbalance at any volume level, and virtually background-noise-free performance.All three of these portable amps accomplish this with the use of stepped volumecontrols and special attention to low circuit noise.

[The Pico Slim] is a very smooth and refined sounding portable, without anyedge or grain, and good extension in the bass and treble.

Head-Fi member/reviewer HeadphoneAddict

FEATURED PORTABLE AMPS(from left to right)

Ray Samuels Audio ShadowHeadamp Pico SlimTTVJ Slim

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MONSTER MILES DAVIS TRUMPET AND MONSTER GRATITUDEClosed in-ear monitors (around $350 and $200, respectively)www.monsterproducts.com

If youve only listened to Monsters Beats line of headphones, you definitely have not heard the best headphones Monsterhas to offer. In my opinion, theMonster Miles Davis Trumpet is their current best. Many simply refer to it as theTrumpet, and the Trumpet has substantially trumped the Turbine Pro Copper, in my opinion, as the best of Monstersin-ear lineup.

Some might consider the Trumpets styling gauche in its literalness. The outside ends of the earpieces arent merelyinfluenced by a trumpets mouthpiece, they look j ust like Lilliputian trumpet mouthpieces. With some of the Trumpetsincluded eartips, the main flange towards the ear looks like a trumpet with a mute inserted. Its three-button remote/micbuttons look like itsy-bitsy replicas of the buttons atop a trumpets valves. And, like a brand new trumpet, the MonsterMiles Davis Trumpet is gleamingwith polished metallic surfaces. Maybe its because its so out-there, maybe its because

Im such a huge Miles Davis fan, but I love the way the Trumpet looks.

The Trumpets design is unique beyond its appearance, too. It has a driver-forward design that pushes the Trumpetsdynamic drivers out to the ends of the earpieces, closer to the inner ears. This shifts the weight forward, so that that theearpieces are less likely to break seal or fall out.

Most importantly, Im impressed with the way the Trumpet sounds. It has, of all the headphones Ive heard so far fromMonster, the most audiophile-friendly tonal balance. Bass extension is good; but, in a departure from most of Monstersother headphones, the Trumpet has comparatively mild bass emphasis (and with good extension). I also find its treblemore refined than the Coppers. Soundstaging is also good, with a much wider presentation than I might otherwiseexpect from an in-ear that places its drivers deeper in the ears than most other dynamic driver in-ears do. Relative tothe Copper, which I still enjoy, the Miles Davis Trumpet simply sounds more serious, less funand I mean that as a verypositive nod in the Trumpets favor.

If you want something more balanced than the Turbine Pro Copper, but with more bass emphasis and more fun than theTrumpet, then consider my second favorite M onster in-ear, the Monster Gratitude. Inspired by the music of Earth, Wind& Fire (and, of course, endorsed by them), the Gratitude might be the best value in the Monster line, and an outstandingvalue, period. To my ears, the Gratitude sounds like an evolution of the flagship Monster Turbine Pro models, but cangenerally be found for a significantly lower price than the Turbine Pro Gold, and far less than the Turbine Pro Copper. Tome, the Gratitude is a sign that Monster is stepping up its game, in terms of performance and value.

In terms of packaging, Monster really hits it out of the park with both the Trumpet and the Gratitude. Both come withvery nice carrying cases, the Trumpet comes with a special edition CD of Miles Davis Sketches of Spainalbum, and bothcome with a rather staggering array of eartips, all showcased in cool hinged heavy-duty boxes youll probably never throwaway. With such an impressive in-box collection of eartips, its obvious Monster is very serious about making sure theuser can find a good fit right off the bat (which so important to both sound and comfort with in-ears).

The brilliant vocals, the added benefit of the control talk, the great blend of bass that boasts both quantity/quality,and the rather neutral presentation are all winners in my book. I really cant stress the mids; theyre just beautiful!

Head-Fi member/reviewer i2ehan

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HIFIMAN RE-262Closed, in-ear monitor ($149)www.head-direct.com

The HiFiMAN RE-262 has a somewhat unorthodox look, and an even more unique sound signature. Rich andsweet, the RE-262 has magical midrange, and an eminently musical quality that I think many would findimmediately seductive. The bass extension is good, but some may find it on the lighter side. The RE-262streble is nicely textured and smooth. But, again, that midrangethe emphasis there lends a lusher tint tothe overall presentation, and I love it. Its like a little taste of tube soundliquid single-ended triode tubesoundsomehow packaged into diminutive IEMs.

Though the RE-262s chassis looks rather different from most of the IEMs on the market, you get used to itquickly, and it is very easy to insert into your ears. I also find the RE-262 very comfortable for long-term wear.

Keep in mind that though the RE-262 isolates, I dont find it to isolate quite as much as much of its IEMcompetition.

The midrange is where its at; its sophisticated and beautiful. Vocals carry amazing intimacy that are veryaddicting, engrossing and full of emotion. The entire midrange is velvety smooth with excellent clarity anddetail. Every little detail of the midrange is easily discovered. Singers lips parting, the inhaling of breath,inflections from the throat are beautifully rendered.

Head-Fi member/reviewer Shawn (Shotgunshane)

Aside from the seductively fluid midrange the biggest strength of the RE262 for me is the presentation. Theearphones boast both and excellent soundstage and headstage still a relatively rare occurrence in theIEM realm... It really gives a great sense of ambient space without losing track of individual instruments ordiluting other location cues. Positioning is helped by good -- perhaps even excessive layering; the RE262really leaves no doubts as to what is in a tracks foreground and what is in the background.


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MOSHI AUDIO CLARUSClosed, in-ear, earhook-type headphone (around $200)http://moshimonde.com

First of all, the Moshi Audio Clarus comes in one of the best-executed fancy little boxes Ive seen in quite a while. youre past the outer cardboard bits, the Clarus product packaging looks more the par t of a small museum displathan something youd pick off a store shelfeven the clear plastic they use to make the Clarus look like its floatimid-air seems to be of a higher-than-average grade to help accomplish the illusion.

The appearance and build of the Clarus itself only accentuates the fancy feeling unboxing experience. The Claruslargely made of a steel alloy, with styled creases and folds that give it a sort of origamiappearance. Its very attrto look at, feels substantial in the hands, and looks good on the head, too.

Fortunately the Clarus has the sonic chops to merit the packaging. While it likely wont open up sonic vistas thatexperienced Head-Fiers havent yet heard, it will be clear to even grizzled Head-Fi veterans that this is a headphovoiced to appeal to audio enthusiasts. Theres enough mid-bass emphasis, though, to still ke ep the general consumarket happy.

Overall, the Moshi Clarus balance is on the warmer side, with the weightiness of its midbass prominent, but neveoverwhelming to me. The mids are also warm, and treble extension is good, though certainly not soaring. This kintonal balance works well for me when on the go (I like some bass emphasis when Im out and about).

The Clarus specifications list a two-way dynamic driver in each ear (consisting of a 7mm treble drive, 15mm wooHowever this two-way driver is configured (I havent seen it), it presents itself as tonally coherent.

Moshi describes the Clarus ear coupling as loose-fit silicone designed torest on the cusp of the ear canals, noinside of them, thereby eliminating ear fatigue.And the Clarus is very comfortable. I can easily wear it for hours. (do sacrifice some isolation for the loose-fit comfort, though.) Ive found its earhook design to be eyeglass friendlywhether Im wearing thick plastic frames or thin metal ones. And the Clarus feels light when worn.

The Clarus also has an in-line three-button remote/mic cable, which, as an iPhone/iPod/iPad user, is a great bona portable headphone.

The Moshi Clarus is a wonderful choice for a portable on-the-go headphone, and it was a pleasant surprise for mwas previously unfamiliar with Moshi.
http://www.head-direct.com/http://moshimonde.com/http://moshimonde.com/http://www.head-direct.com/


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VELODYNE VPULSEClosed, in-ear monitor (around $90)http://www.velodyne.com

It seems everyone and his subsidiaries want to peddle headphones nowadays, with loudspeaker manufacturersseemingly unable to resist the call. One such entry in the last several months that I found particularly interesting:Velodyne. Sure, their subwoofers have been well regarded for years, but I was intrigued to find out how a companythat essentially specializes in the spectrum below 200Hz (and often well below 20Hz) would do with their firstheadphone. As it turns out, theyve done very well.

One might think that a subwoofer company would choose a bass-emphasized tonal balance with their firstheadphone, and, indeed, it did. One might fear that a subwoofer company might overdothat bass, but thankfullyit didnt. The vPulses bass is emphasized, and sounds to me to be centered in the deep bass region, without

adulterating the mids. In fact, the v Pulses mids and treble seem to breathe f reely, and the overall balance is justwhat Id want when I feel like listening to a bass-emphasized in-ear. The vPulses resolution is good, but dont buythe vPulse if youre a detail freak. Soundstaging is good, but, again, if this is your lead criterion, the vPulse maynot win you over.

The vPulse looks very nice and stylish (and youthful) in blue (its also available in a more conservative black/silver), and has a very nice three-button inline remote/mic. The vPulse is an outstanding value at around $90.

The first in-ear earphone from the bass experts at Velodyne, the vPulse does a good job of combining user-friendliness and functionality in a single package. While the design is derivative in many ways, the vPulse has alot going for it - tangle-resistant cables, low microphonics, comfortable angled-nozzle earpieces, and a 3-buttonremote are all standard features. The sound combines solid bass rumble and depth with slightly subdued but stillclean and detailed mids and highs. The bass can be a touch overpowering on some tracks but normally remainswell-behaved for such a bassy earphone, making the vPulse highly suitable for anyone in search of a reasonably-priced headset with plentiful rumble and power.


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SONY XBA-3IPClosed, in-ear monitor (around $250 to $300)http://www.sony.com

Last year, Sony announced seven new headphone models (constitut ing 11 total new SKUs) using balanced armatdrivers. I havent heard them all, but, of the ones I did hear, the XBA-3iP was the one that most caught my attent

Unlike most manufacturers that source balanced armature drivers from other companies, my understanding is thSony developed their own BAs. Using three of their new BA drivers per side in the XBA-3iP, Sony has achieved a lerefinement and balance with the XBA-3iP that some companies have taken years to realize.

The XBA-3iP also has a ver y nice form factor, with earpieces that look simple and elegant, and with a nice shape very easy to grab between your thumb and forefinger for very quick and easy ear insertion.

With weighty yet detailed bass, neutralish (if somewhat subdued) mids, and detailed, well-extended neutral-balatreble, the XBA-3iP is a verygood universal-fit in-ear monitor. While it doesnt quite reach the performance heighears) of the Westone 4R or Phonak Audo PFE232, it also doesnt reach their price strata. At its price point, the XBhas become one of my favorite universal-fit IEMs.

(There is also a version without the three-button remote/mic called the XBA-3, which is priced around $200 to $2

THINKSOUND MS01Closed, in-ear monitor (around $100)http://www.thinksound.com

Big sound. Small footprint.Thats thinksounds motto, their mission st atement being to create incredible soundheadphones with the smallest eco-footprint possible.At a time when so many of us are becoming increasingly conabout how we impact the environment, how could I not include something from thinksound in this guide? This waeven easier by the fact their flagship product, the ms01, sounds quite good for i ts street price of around $100.

The eco-friendly vibe is strong with this one, with extensive use of natural-color cardboard, and very minimal useplastic. The carrying case is also a simple unbleached cotton drawstring pouch. Each earpiece consists of a beaubrown wood housing with gunmetal-colored aluminum baffles. At first glance, the aluminum baffles look like somhammered to shape. The cables are tangle-resistant and PVC-free. Aesthetically, the ms01 is a very simple, elegadesign. Im not sure why, but every time I look at the ms01, I think of little craft art shops in Bridgetown, Barbadothat makes me smile.

The ms in ms01 stands for monitor series, and I can see where theyre coming from with that label, especiahow it sounds relative to most other in-ears in its price range, which tend to be either bass-heavy or bass-and-trheavy. The ms01 takes a rather even-keeled approach to its tonal balance, with impactful, fast bass, good claritythe midrange, and what sounds to me like a dash of treble emphasis, but thankfully not in the sibilance range. Thalso images nicely.

On sound alone, its a worthy competitor at its price. Throw its eco-cool spirit into the mix, and it becomes more ofstandout in an increasingly crowded space.
http://www.velodyne.com/http://www.sony.com/http://www.thinksound.com/http://www.thinksound.com/http://www.sony.com/http://www.velodyne.com/


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BE AMAZED.

If you were under the impressionthat there was no such thing asgood wireless headphonesletalone outstandingonesthenconnect yourself to your music onlyvia the ether tether of the followingheadphones. Youll be amazed.

SENNHEISER RS 220Closed, around-the-ear, wireless headphone (around $599)www.sennheiser.com

This headphone is a remarkable feat of engineeringa solid bridge between wireless freedom and wired fidelity.If this was easy to do at a reasonable price, it would have been done before, many times overand that hasnthappened, because it most certainly is noteasy to do. Not surprisingly, it took Sennheiserto do it.

Prior to the RS 220, Sennheiser made valiant strides toward this end, especially with the RS 170 and RS 180, botimpressive Kleer-equipped wireless headphones (and both still available). Impressive as the RS 170 and RS 180were, however, they were a different flavor of awesome, that flavor being outstanding-for-wirelessheadphones;whereas the RS 220 is an outstanding headphone, period, even by wiredstandards.

The RS 220s low-latency, bit-perfect wireless transmission means full preservation of dynamic range, and thisprobably helps explain one area (but certainly not the only area) the RS 220 simply outclasses all other wirelessheadphonesdiaphanous, delicate detail. Its macrodynamic abilities are also outstanding, but keep in mindthat the RS 220 maxes out at 106 decibels (which is plenty high enough for me, and I certainly hope for you, too).

The RS 220 has become my most-used full-sized over-ear headphone, as it gives m e the freedom to move aroundmy home office area, moving from my desk to my chaise to my sofa, with fidelity that evokes the sound of a nicely

driven Sennheiser HD 600.

After so many years of expecting this kind of sound only from wired headphones, I still find myself motioning withmy hands to move the non-existent headphone cables out of the way as I adjust my seating position. And I stillregularly take the RS 220 headphone off my head when I get up from my office chair, forgetting its wireless.

RS 220. MM 450-X. Yes, I think it safe to say that, right now, Sennheiser rules the roost in the world of wirelessheadphones, whether at home or on the go.
http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.sennheiser.com/


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SENNHEISER MM 450-X TRAVELClosed, on-the-ear, portable, wireless Bluetooth headphone (street price around $450.00)www.sennheiser.com

My experience with stereo Bluetooth headphones had not been at all encouraging until I came across the MM450 Travel. And, recently, Sennheiser further improved this headphone with the MM 450-X. This feature-packedclosed-back headphone is far and away the best sounding Bluetooth stereo headphone I have ever heard. No,you wont mistake it for Sennheisers flagship HD 800, but you also wont believe your music is being piped t o youthrough Bluetooth.

The MM 450-X also has very good active noise cancellation (no, not as good as the Bose QC15s noisecancellation, but still very good), can be used passively (via an included cable) when the battery dies (or whenyoud rather not drain its rechargeable battery), includes a very nifty TalkThrough feature that allows you to hear

the world around you (using its built-in stereo microphones), can be used as a Bluetooth headset, and has controlbuttons with which to easily control your calls and music.

New with the MM 450-X is support for the hi-fi apt-X audio codec, for improved sound quality with other apt-X-supported devices). In case your computer doesnt support apt-X, pick up the $60Sennheiser BTD 500 USBdongle, which will give your Windows or Mac computer apt-X, A2DP and HSP capabilities. Another improvementIve found with the MM 450-X (versus the MM 450) is a lower noise floor when used wirelessly, and/or with activenoise-cancellation enabled.

Ive logged manythousands of miles of travel with the Sennheiser MM 450 Travel (and will likely log even morewith the MM 450-X), and it has been fantastic for use on buses, planes and trains. Of all the active noise-cancelers that Sennheiser currently offers, the MM 450-X offers the best balance of portability, utility and sound,in my opinion.

(We discussed the Sennheiser MM 450 Travel in Episode 007 of Head-Fi TV.)

SLEEK AUDIO CT7 W-1 WIRELESS CUSTOMClosed, Kleer wireless, custom in-ear monitors (starting around $800) Pictured at right.www.sleekaudio.com

Until I heard the Sennheiser RS 220, the best-sounding wireless headphones Id heard all used Kleer wirelesstechnology. Ive heard a prototype of Sleek Audios universal-fit in-ear Kleer wireless system, and it was extremelyimpressiveand that was a few years ago.

A Sleek Audio Kleer wireless system is available with Sleek Audios CT7 custom-fit in-ear monitor earpieces. The

CT7 has been well reviewed on Head-Fi ( in both wired and wireless setups), and Sleek has had a few years sincelast I heard their prototype to further refine their wireless rigs.

A wireless custom-fit IEM? I dont think Ill be able to resist.

NOTE: For the CT7, expect to pay about an additional $50.00 to get molds of your ears made at a local audiologist(that you will then send in to Sleek Audio).

8

The CT7s midrange follows itsbass. It is forward, edgy, andfun. Its got detail. Its got space.Its got bite. It even has softnesswhere needed. You can hear veryclearly the small wet sounds ofthe mouth, stray breaths into the

microphone, the gnarled stringsof a guitar. Its all there.Head-Fi member/reviewer Shigzeo
http://www.sennheiser.com/http://www.head-fi.org/t/557750/sennheiser-mm-450-travel-and-the-wowee-one-for-the-traveling-head-fiers-head-fi-tv-episode-007http://www.sleekaudio.com/http://www.sleekaudio.com/http://www.head-fi.org/t/557750/sennheiser-mm-450-travel-and-the-wowee-one-for-the-traveling-head-fiers-head-fi-tv-episode-007http://www.sennheiser.com/


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EADPHONE AMPS &THER HEAD-FI GEAR

ere is a lot of other gearcussed by Head-Fiers other thanadphones, including amps tower those headphones, digital-analog converters (DACs), otherurce components to feed the ampsat power those headphones, otherdio accessories, and occasionallyen loudspeakers for when we dontl like listening to headphones.

CHITT AUDIO VALHALLA ANDOO AUDIO WA5

DESKTOPAMPSHEADPHONECABLESPORTABLEAMPSBUDAUDACDESKTOPAUDIOCOMPUTERAUDIOPORTABLEDEVICES

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DESKTOP HEADPHONE AMPLIFIERS

At the 2011 CanJam at Rocky MountainAudio Fest, I plugged the Audeze LCD-3 into the solid stateAPEX HIFIAUDIO BUTTE($495), www.ttvj.com, and smiled big. Physically, the Butte is unimposing. Aesthetically, itsunassuming. Sonically, it drove the LCD-3 beautifully and transparently, allowing the new Audeze flagship do its thing,unembellished, unencumbered.

Several Head-Fiers were gathered round i t at one point, toward the end of the show, and every single one of us walkedaway impressed by the combo. Knowing that the LCD-3 was in my immediate future, I knew the Butte had to be, too, soI ordered one on the spot.

Right away I found this amp to be neutral and smooth. Transparency and midrange clarity are delivered in spadeswith the Butte. These are the major strengths of the Butte. The midrange is where a lot of the magic happens for manyof us and I found the Buttes midrange to be natural and uncolored. You can push this amp without any significantedginess/harshness at the top or bloat at the bottom. There is no chance of amp-induced fatigue here.

Head-Fi member/reviewer John White (WNBC)

Another affordable desktop amp I use and recommend is theSCHIIT AUDIO VALHALLA($349),www.schiit.com,which is a Class-A, single-ended triode amp. Its an affordable trip into beautiful tube sound, and with good flexibilit y,supporting headphones with nominal impedance of 32-600 ohms.

Here is what the Valhalla is: an outstanding sounding headphone amp for the money. Its dynamic, essentiallytransparent, and essentially neutral.

Head-Fi member/reviewer skylab

In the context of the Sennheiser HD 800 (which itself is priced at around $1,500), we have to adjust the definition ofaffordable a bit. With that in mind, thebest affordabletube amp Ive used with the HD 800 happens to be the RAYSAMUELS AUDIO RAPTOR($1,175), www.raysamuelsaudio.com. This is a glorious pairing, and Ive brought it withme to two CanJam at RMAF events to let others hear it, too.

On of the best tube amps Ive heard, in a variety of rigs, is the WOO AUDIO WA 5 LE (starting at $2,500), www.wooaudio.com, a two-chassis, single-ended triode, transformer-coupled, Class-A headphone amp that uses thevenerable 300B tube. I personally love the sound of a great 300B

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