Summary

Verdict - Good for pop, great with hip hop and dance music.

Pro’s - Big contemporary warm sound from these lightweight but sturdy on ear headphones. Perfect for commuting or travelling.

Cons - On ear headphones just do not work for some ears - they can become painful after long periods but there is an obvious advantage to this smaller style over full size headphones. Not for most Classical music fans unless you like more bass than average.

In-Depth Review

Introduction - Audio Technica was established in 1962, Audio-Technica is a worldwide group devoted to the design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of problem-solving audio equipment. They started out making phonograph cartridges and now create microphones, mixers and electronic products for home and professional use. Winner of numerous industry awards, Audio-Technica manufactures quality products that are used in professional and personal audio around the world.

Description -The ATH-ES55 is available in White and Black and has a closed back design, therefore cutting out external noises which may distract from your listening. Although they have impressive sound isolation this has the effect of reducing the sound stage and stereo image width and gives a slightly warm tone with an elevated bottom end.

Included peripherals - Both White and Black versions come with a carry pouch to help with transporting them.

Application -  The ES55 are excellent everyday use headphones. Sturdy with decent sized pads, very comfy for an on ear, these would make sense for commuting, listening whilst working or as headphones for someone who does not like in ear headphones but wants to keep their portable audio small and light.

Describe the sound - Contemporary feel, warm as with most closed backs, they are relaxed but feel detailed and exciting too, the overall sound is slightly laid back but not dull. Nice and easy to power from an iPod/MP3 player or Laptop so no volume problems.

Comparisons - The alternatives to ES55 are other well made on ears like the Beyerdynamic DTX501p, the AiAiAi Capital, the Audio-Technica ATH-WS55i, the RHA SA950i and the SoundMAGIC P30.

Product Information

Product -Audio-Technica ATH-ES55

Product Type - On-Ear Portable Headphones

Price - £86.95

Summary

Verdict -  For contemporary music fans who want to replace iPod ear buds with better fitting, fun and contemporary in-ears at a wallet friendly price.

Pro’s -  Warm and bass rich with some definition, fans of Hip Hop, Dance and contemporary Rock and Metal will enjoy the full and immediate sound.

Cons - Fans of Folk or Classical music or detail fanatics will need to up the budget and maybe take a look at the SoundMAGIC PL50 or to jump up to another tier, the Westone UM1 or Etymotic HF5.

In-Depth Review

Introduction - Sennheiser is the best known German headphone manufacturer. They make Studio, Audiophile and everyday headphones and even some technology used with the hard of hearing. German quality control is observed rigorously and a 2 Year warranty is given with all their products. Sennheiser seem to have a generally warm feel to their sound with a similar sonic idea running through their whole range.

Description -The CX300II is available in five colours (Black, Chrome, White, and Silver) and is a small, light in-ear isolating headphone. The cabling is copper, has a nice quality feel with anti tangle material used, it terminates in a 3.5mm right angle jack. There is adequate strain relief at the jack plug and driver units, the cable is asymmetrical which means it doesn’t evenly split in half under your chin but instead wraps around the neck.

Included peripherals - Inside the box - Small, Medium and large silicone tips, Cable clip, a little carry pouch.

Application -  The CX300II is an obvious Apple ear bud upgrade, many people find the apple earbuds fit badly and sound weak with little detail or bottom end. Weighing in at 14g and with different tips and a clothing clip getting a good comfortable fit is easy.

Describe the sound - Fit is all important with in ear headphones as without a good seal on the ear you will hear very little bass. Once you have found the correct tips there is plenty of bass. Very smooth and warm with a bit of control of the bottom end. Great for Contemporary music styles like Hip Hop and Dance, the bass line from London Girl by The Invisible feels massive, punchy and driving. The bass can be untidy and this lack of the subtlety doesn’t help Acoustic or Classical, Jazz does a bit better but lacks a natural feeling of space.

Comparisons - What are the alternatives? SoundMAGIC’s excellent PL11 is a little cheaper with a few more accessories. Another model from the Chinese brand, the E10 offers a bit more clarity and a little less bass while keeping the fun approach. The Audiofly AF33’s are great if you prefer more neutrality and less bottom end strength.

Product Information

Product - Sennheiser CX300-II

Product Type - In-Ear Isolating Headphones

Price - £35.95

Summary

Verdict - The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700 is a warm, pleasant sounding home listening set that carries plenty of detail but never steps in the fatiguing territory. Its lightweight design allows the listener to wear them for longer periods.

Pro’s - Fantastic stereo imaging with a great sense of space. Very comfortable headphones, a great partner to that favourite comfy chair. Excellent value for money.

Cons - Very gentle loose fit and combined with their size and the open back means these are definitely for home listening.

In-Depth Review

Introduction - Audio-Technica established in 1962 is a worldwide group devoted to the design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of problem-solving audio equipment. They started out making phonograph cartridges and now create microphones, mixers and electronic products for home and professional use. Winner of numerous awards, Audio-Technica manufactures quality products that are used in professional and personal audio around the world.

Description -The ATH-AD700 is only available in the exciting purple and silver colour way. For the purpose of this review a transparent amp was used, but with such a low impedance of only 32 ohms, the AD 700 can be powered quite easily by your portable devices such as an iPod, iPhone or other portable media player. You really get the impression that Audio-Technica produced these as an entry-level headphone for those not sure if they want to commit a huge amount of their well earned money into their hi-fi gear yet. There’s no need for a headphone amp or expensive audio equipment, anyone can enjoy these excellent hi-fi headphones.

Included peripherals - In the box you may find a 6.35mm jack adapter and not much else.

Application -  One of the main advantages of open back headphones is their accuracy, and as the AD700 are so very open, there are less sound wave reflections clouding the mix, and that will be part of the reason for their excellent accuracy and sound separation. However that also means that those around you will hear everything, so if the reason for purchasing headphones is to not disturb others in the same room then these probably would not be a good choice, you would be better choosing some closed back headphones.

Describe the sound - Generating the sound in the AD700 is a pair of 53mm neodymium drivers. As far as drivers go, that is pretty big, and big is beautiful in this case. Sound separation and stereo imaging is excellent, far exceeding headphones twice the price on that front. There’s such clarity right across the frequency spectrum, although the top end seems to struggle at a louder volume, for most people’s comfortable listening level they really deliver well. In particular the mid range is as good as anything within a reasonable price range. Some may feel that the bass region is lacking a touch but for the casual listener these have plenty to offer, it is only in the very low frequencies where there is quite a drop. In real listening terms I’d put it like this - you still get all the slap of the kick drum, just not so much of the boom. However what you can hear down there is very accurate and unlike the higher frequencies remains very clear even at high volumes.

Comparisons - Have a look at Sennheiser’s HD600 and 650 models in case you’re after a bit more warmth. In case you prefer a tad more articulation at the top, the SoundMAGIC HP200 is a great alternative. For an all around balanced sound, the German Maestro GMP400 is a great option.

Product Information

Product - Audio Technica ATH-AD700

Product Type - Open Back Hi-Fi Headphones

Price - £124.96

Based on the highly successful FiiO E7, the E07K Andes features many improvements. The FiiO E07K portable headphone amplifier with USB audio decoder (DAC) is designed for dual-functionality. It both replaces PC on-board sound cards as the primary audio decoder, which can lead to an increase in audio quality, as well as provide high quality sound amplification and drive high-powered high-end headphones.

• High performance with excellent resolution and low distortion
• 96kHz 24-Bit high resolution audio decoding
• Right and left channel balance can be adjusted to suit users with different ear sensitivity
• Separate fine bass and treble adjustments with 20 discreet steps from -10 to +20
• Output bypass feature allows user to output fixed line-level signal when used with E09K
• Three separate gain levels of 0dB, 6dB, and 12dB
• Hold switch prevents inadvertent adjustments and key presses
• Build-in rechargeable 1500mAH Li-ion battery for up to 24 hours of continuous use
• Dual colour OLED display with automatic key lock and sleep timer function

To purchase the unit, please visit our website:
Buy FiiO E07k Andes Headphone Amplifier & USB DAC

Summary

Verdict - The iGrado is one of the best sounding headphone it is possible to buy for around £50. They are a simple solution to the need for a sports headphone for road running or cycling when you need to be aware of your surroundings.

Pro’s - For the price, the sound quality is just stunning.

Cons - Neck band headphones are not everyone’s cup of tea. Although the open back is great for cyclists or exercise in a busy public place, they are not really suitable for the gym or quiet public environments.

In-Depth Review

Introduction - Family owned Grado have been manufacturing beautiful headphones for over 50 years in their Brooklyn USA factory. Grado is famous for their remarkable headphone and phono cartridge designs and hold over 48 patents. Company founder, Joseph Grado is credited as the inventor of the stereo moving coil phono cartridge. Joseph Grado has passed on the mantle of President to his nephew John Grado. John has risen from sweeping the floors of the factory as a twelve year old, to President and Owner of Grado Laboratories.

Description - The iGrado is actually the only Grado made outside the US factory, this was decided so there was a Grado affordable for any budget. The iGrado actually shares the same driver design as the highly acclaimed SR60i which is twice the price!

Included peripherals - Inside the box you will find a Grado iGrado and not a lot else.

Application - Grado iGrado is a lightweight neckband model that will stay still during the hardest workout. The open back allows joggers or cyclists to be aware of their environment whilst exercising and listening to music. They work fantastically well for Classical, Folk and Acoustic music but do a great job with contemporary Rock and Pop and classics from the 60’s to the present day. They work with Hip Hop but having a flat controlled bottom end response, bass fanatic Dance fans should look for a bass dominant headphone instead.

Describe the sound - The Grado sound is detailed, brash and very sweet with a natural feel, basically really exciting. Bass is strong but tightly controlled and never overbearing. The upper mids and the highs really do send the soul soaring, vocals are believable and even difficult strings and brass have a texture which feels right. By venting the drivers a natural ease is gained, getting a closer listening experience to speakers.

Comparisons - The alternatives to this impressive Audiophile workout or even dog walk friendly Headphone are the Sennheiser PX100-II, for a balanced but musical approach a Sennheiser MOMENTUM would work really well if your budget will allow but is closed back. You could also check out the the full sized Grado models such as the SR60i and SR80i.

Product Information

Product -  Grado iGrado

Product Type - Open Back On-Ear Neckband Headphones

Price - £55.00

Sennheiser have created the HDVD800 to excel the current levels of audio quality for audiophile listening. As the perfect match for Sennheiser’s audiophile headphones, the HDVD800 delivers a balanced sound image, maximum precision and impressive tonal spatiality with perfect conversion of digital to analogue signals.

• D/A transducer for all common formats up to 24bit / 192kHz
• D/A transducer can be used for CD and DVD players
• AES/BU, S/PDIF, USB inputs
• Symmetrical (XLR) and asymmetrical (RCA) analogue inputs
• Sockets for four sets of headphones (two of which symmetrical)
• Consistently symmetrical signal processing for maximum sound quality
• High-end ALPS quadruple potentiometer achieve perfect channel equality
• Variable gain factor (five stages) for optimised use of low impedance headphones
• Sophisticated metal housing to protect against signal scatter and vibration
• Controls machined from solid metal, providing the utmost in long-term stability
• Perfect match with Sennheiser’s audiophile headphone range
• Extended 5-year warranty

To purchase the unit, please visit our website:

Buy Sennheiser HDVD800 Headphone Amplifier & DAC

Attention spans are ever shorter these days, and I’m no exception; planning to sit down and listen to music seems to require the will to be tethered to the spot for the duration. Maybe it’s psychology but the kettle starts to beckon, pressure builds in the bladder and - did I detect a knock at the door?

Not being one for compromise (too much), I found that Sennheiser’s current crop of wireless headphones using ‘Kleer’ technology give sound quality which easily matches most wired headphones in their price bracket. The advantage of being able to take the music with me should I need to cross the room cannot be underestimated; the cable on my good old AKG K240s has me creeping around like a cat burglar in case I snag it, or knock over something  brittle and expensive.

The Sennheiser RS170 is a closed-backed headphone; meaning that I am isolated from environmental sounds to a certain extent and those around me cannot easily be disturbed by what I am listening to. The ‘closed’ type of headphone historically has had problems with standing waves and resonance within the earcups, and any soundstage has appeared narrower. Which makes it all the more surprising when I have to remove the headphones to check I have not left my speakers on! I have also felt as if someone has crept up to me and purred a few lyrics over my shoulder. Closed-back headphones have really come a long way.

The headphones are very light which makes them excellent for wearing whilst engaged in various household tasks such as head-shaking, hand-wringing and general procrastination; also they are right at home outside, and can be used for working or relaxing in the garden. I find mine are invaluable if I’m working on or cleaning my motorbike at the front of the house; the noise from the road drowns out my radio, and the wire involved with in-ear headphones and a MP3 player causes problems. Over the winter they have also kept my ears warm out there!

The RS170 features a bass-boost button which works very well for a bass fan such as myself; although it is by no means overpowering. It is well balanced with the higher frequencies being slightly accentuated when this is active. Also there’s a virtual surround setting which works very well for watching films and the like, but not so well for music or speech/radio. I find that anything in the centre of the soundstage is shifted slightly to the right and a little bit of clarity is lost. The control buttons on the right earcup are a little bit of a struggle for a lot of people as they are close together and most find them tricky, but I got used to them within a week. Tip - feel for the gap between the volume/power buttons and the bass boost/surround buttons.

The leatherette earpads are comfortable enough and provide a good seal; however I have modded mine by using a thin, stretchy fabric intended for use as an insect screen and placing this over the parts which contact my head. My ears can breath a little more easily and I can listen for longer. Velour earpads are available as an alternative; these are for the RS180 but fit the RS170 also.

Being a practical-minded chap, I was happy to find the headphones are powered by a pair of the ubiquitous AAA-sized batteries which will be easy to replace when the time comes. Indeed I’m confident that other spares will be available for some time to come, as Sennheiser obviously realise the value of post-sales support when it comes to spare parts.

Verdict – Based on the ever so popular DJ headphones, the HD 25-1, the Sennheiser Amperior provide a consumer oriented alternative with their balanced audio reproduction, warm mids, deep powerful bass and smartphone features.

Pro’s – Impressive bass and excellent portable size.

Con’s – On-Ear headphones always become a bit uncomfortable during long listening sessions.

In-Depth Review

Introduction – The Amperior are essentially an update on the legendary HD25 DJ and soundman headphone of choice. Almost ubiquitous in some industries due to it’s superb design, diminutive size (considering the sound quality) and freely available spare parts. We live in a world filled with reboots and sequels so what have Sennheiser done to justify this cover version of a classic?

Description – Aside from a looks makeover, which is actually more than skin deep, there is real attention to the voicing of the Amperior – underneath the classy new paint colours are aluminium cups, making this headphone tougher and aiding with the improved sounds available. The earpads are velour, rather than pleather, giving extra comfort, the headband is nearly identical to the original HD25 split band but also has velour padding. Build quality is at least as good, if not better due to the new metal cups.

Included peripherals - The Sennheiser Amperior come with two sets of cables. The detachable bottom section comes in plain and iDevice compatible version.

Application – As previously mentioned, the size and shape of the Amperiors makes them a practical everyday set of cans. Comfort levels are pretty good although On-Ear headphones are never as comfy as their circumaural counterparts. The ability to swivel and the give in the connection of the cups to the headband means they are very adjustable. The closed-back design gives decent isolation making the Amperior a good choice for the commuter.

Describe the sound – The Amperior comes with a copper cable, part of the reason sound is bigger, warmer and less scratchy at the top end when compared to the steel cabled HD25. The EQ is less flat than the monitoring ready HD25 and has more character, really decent instrument separation and stereo imaging. The Amperior is a great headphone for the contemporary music lover on the move. Practical with smart but not over-designed looks are complimented with refined but current sound – should be considered by any regular traveler.

Comparisons – Also see Sennheiser HD25-SP, AiAiAi TMA-1, GermanMAESTRO JFB 8.35d, Beyer DT1350.

Product Information

Product –  Sennheiser Amperior

Product Type – On-Ear Stereo Portable Headphone

Price – £259.95

Verdict

SoundMAGIC continues to impress with their full size models. The HP200s have great balance between accuracy and musicality making them a safe choice for home listening. They measure up really well against the best headphones in this price range.

Pro’s

Great build quality and adjustability, comfortable pads, easily driven and the price is right.

Con’s

Aesthetically unadventurous.

In-Depth Review

Introduction

The HP200 is SoundMAGICs first full size open backed headphone. It follows on from their very first full size, the excellent HP100 closed back, with very similar looks and build quality. Because open backed headphones allow sound to bounce around and even move away from the ear they give a more realistic sense of space. This means they do not isolate well but the sonic benefits can be spectacular.

Description

The HP200 is nearly entirely metal with some tough PE materials for the smaller mouldings. The large earpads and headband are extremely soft and comfortable, the unit itself beautifully ergonomic and relatively lightweight. The range of movement and adjustment is very well thought out with a higher than average amount of articulation, so they should work for anybody.

Included peripherals

The single-sided cable is replaceable with a simple locking connector on the left earcup. The cable is 120cm in length and terminates in a 3.5 mm threaded plug with a screw-on 6.35 mm adapter. Supplied with a very nice carry case that holds the 120cm cable, a 3m extension cable and an inflight adaptor, it all fits back into the case with ease.

Application

This airy sounding open back is really designed for Hifi listening at home but due to the foldable frame, carry case and low weight it could easily help save the sanity of a music loving business traveler confined to a basic hotel room for the evening.

Describe the sound

SoundMAGICs HP200 features angled 53mm Neodymium Drivers with a composite surface, are low impedance and quite easy to drive (although they will benefit from a dedicated headphone amplifier). The Sound is quick and bright but reaches down nice and low for thumpy bass when needed. The bass is a really interesting part of the sound – bass heavy instruments articulate extremely well, lower strings have real texture which helps the transparent presentation and dark background. The sound is very measured, no one thing is ruling the roost here, SoundMAGIC have not been tempted to make these overly warm but have also stopped them from sounding too analytical, they don’t fizz, the top end sparkles without being aggressive. Accurate but musical is normally the goal with open backs and thanks to well balanced EQ the HP200 achieve this impressively. Instrument separation is superb and these dynamic and exciting headphones are better than their price would suggest. They would definitely suit people who prefer focus on detail to warmth and clean articulation to big bass.

Comparisons

To go brighter look at the Grado 325is, to go darker have a look at the Sennheiser HD650. The Shure SRH940 is a similar sonic experience.

Product Information

Product Type - Open Back Hi-Fi Headphones

Price at the time of review - £219.00

Product Link - Buy SoundMAGIC HP200

Ultrasone’s IQ has a housing constructed using superior metal die casting, its unique ergonomics make it possible for the IQ to be worn comfortably for a extended listening periods. A dynamic 8mm driver, made with Ultrasone’s powerful Neodymium magnet, is responsible for the robust and precise bass playback. A micro driver (balanced armature) is controlled by a frequency separating filter, this is responsible for the reproduction of crystal-clear mid and high-tones. The outstanding isolation against background noise allows you to concentrate completely on the music.

• Metal earphones with bi-directional hybrid driver technology
• Superior strength metal die casting earpieces
• Suited for many mobile phones and MP3 players
• OMTP Adapter for smartphone use
• Two high-quality detachable cables
• Multimedia cable equipped with mic & remote
• Five pairs of silicone eartips and two pairs of Comply Foam Tips
• Includes flight adapter and luxury leather transport case

To purchase the unit, please visit our website:

Buy Ultrasone IQ In-Ear Headphones

It seems that headphone fans are being spoiled this September, not only is there a Headphone area for the first time at this years National Audio Show but also a Head-fi meet up in Cambridge!

Head-Fi is widely seen as the best forum to discuss everything headphone and earphone related. The American contingent have been holding large meet ups, forum members try out each others equipment and discover what all the fuss is about without spending thousands on an item they have no way to demo. Although there have been a few small events in the UK it looks like the largest to date will take place this September in Cambridge.

Last years head-fi meet in London was so successful many people expressed an interest in attending one this year, one forum member decided to take things into his own hands. With the help of other members and several Audio companies the UK meet up has been organised for Saturday 15th of September in Bar Hill Village hall in Cambridgeshire.

Doors are open at 10:00am with a trully incredible raffle draw taking place at 4pm, the meet will then finish at 5pm. The list of equipment on show is too huge to place here - Visit the Thread on Head-fi to get you excited.

Although HiFiHeadphones.co.uk cannot attend due to prior commitments, as a head-fi sponsor we have donated some raffle prizes and we will be running a special discount offer through the website for those who attend the meet up. We will run this for two weeks so that anyone attending either the Head-fi meet up or National Audio Show ‘12 has the chance to use it.

Headphone fans are being spoiled this September

The National Audio Show ’12 is held at Whittlebury Hall Hotel  & Spa, a geographically perfect location, being equidistant between two key arterial motorways (M40 & M1) and also equidistant from the M25 and South Midlands. For those that choose not to drive, there will be regular shuttle buses from Milton Keynes Railway station for just £4 return.

This year they have introduced an exciting and long awaited addition known as ‘HEADZONES’ which will feature a large range of Headphones and accessories from around the world. In fact this idea has been so popular that the organisers have had to increase the space originally allocated. Click here to read a Blog post about the The National Audio Show ’12.

Names already confirmed include Hifi-Man, Schiit Audio, STAX, Audio Technica, Omega Headphone Stands, Cavalli Audio, German Maestro, Audeze, SoundMAGIC, Just Audio, Sennheiser, AKG, harman/kardon, Grado, PSB, Beyerdynamic and more recently Phillips Fidelio.

Head-fi meet up travel info

Bar Hill village hall, which has good access to the M11 and A1(M) via the A14, has been booked for Saturday 15th September. There is ample onsite parking, tables/chairs, a kitchen, spacious hall and accessible toilets. The hall address is - 171 The Spinney, Bar Hill, Cambridge, CB23 8SU.

The hall is accessed via a residential area, so Sat Nav users enter the postcode and 171 The Spinney to pinpoint the exact location. Bar Hill village is well served by buses from Cambridge bus depot. The Citi 5 (operated by Stagecoach) leaves every 20 minutes on Saturdays. The closest stop to the village hall is near Apple Trees.

Relatively inexpensive accommodation is available at the nearby Travelodge.

Custom molded IEMs and pro monitoring specialists, EarSonics, are a French company making waves in the world of universal IEMs. The new EarSonics SM3 v2 is equipped with a triple balanced armature, three-way crossover design.

Despite being a new name in the UK EarSonics have a huge following amoungst French musicians, audio engineers, and celebs who use EarSonics products on-stage, or while mixing or monitoring.

The original SM3 was a little less slick looking but the version 2 has an ergonomically shaped body which sits comfortably in the ear and they are comfy to wear even for extended listening sessions. The SM3 v2 share the same long thin sound tube design of the Shure and Westone ranges. EarSonics uses a similar twisted cable on the SM3 v2 as most other pro IEM manufacturers use with custom IEMs, there is little cable noise and tangling is not a problem either. The cable is replaceable, an excellent lifeline for the more clumsy among us.

The EarSonics SM3 v2 is very clean sounding with an impressively dark background. With their surprisingly wide soundstage, superb handle on detail and instrument separation they are without doubt one of the best IEMs currently available. They feel very lively without fatiguing the listener, very natural sounding for IEMs, which can suffer from unrealistic soundstage and movement within the stereo image. Bottom end is superb but the mids are very special – a hard to describe sound but they feel “right”.

Comply foam tips, medium and large and double flanged silicone tips are accompanied by a small neat zip up case, a cleaning tool. There are also dual (SM2) and single (SM1) models from EarSonics as well.

More Information

For more information on the Earsonics Headphone range please visit the HiFi Headphones store.

DJ headphones are often used for a wide variety of tasks and have to satisfy a tough set of criteria, this makes creating the perfect DJ headphone quite difficult.

Essential Features

DJ Headphones need to have the option of a 6.3mm or ¼” jack plug (this can be a screw on adaptor) as this is what you will find at the headphone output of a mixer and other Pro Audio devices.
Closed back headphones keep other noises out and your noise in. DJ Headphones should isolate you from background noise, this helps with cueing up the next track or getting that clever new mix perfect. It also means you can use the same headphones for studio performance or if you make your own music or remix other peoples work they will help here too!

The Importance of Comfort
If you’re going to spend many hours DJing then comfort is obviously a key factor to consider. Some headphone headbands cause a clamping effect that can cause fatigue, this type of distraction will not aid the creative process. Other headphones have a very light grip on the head and will move around, again not an aid to concentration. You should aim for somewhere in the middle, comfy but you don’t want them falling off mid set. DJ headphones might also have articulated cups to help with single ear monitoring. As you will probably be wearing them for hours on end, the cups should feel good on your ears, also think about where the cable will be if you have an unconventional DJ style, they can be single or double sided.

Build Quality and Storage
DJ headphones must be tough, if you are gigging they will be stepped on, dragged around by the cable, stuffed in a bag or record box and will probably get very sweaty! If space in your travelling bag or case is limited then pick a small or folding model. Try not to choose your headphones by looks alone, sometimes it is much better to look professional than to look cool.

Pioneer HDJ Series

The logic seems to be that the models underneath the HDJ-2000 have benefited from the innovation and developments for the Flagship model. This always impresses me as not everyone can afford the top model in a range but it is nice to know you are benefiting from the same technology. Pioneer have made the HDJ range for live or studio monitoring but all the models work very well for listening to music on the go. DJ headphones do lend themselves to general portable use – Great sound, small size, folding parts, replaceable cables and tough construction. Whether you are a bedroom DJ or a Globe trotting superstar DJ you will probably use DJ headphones for listening to music too and possibly even making a little of your own. Pioneer have achieved three excellent models which could easily become the only pair of headphones you need.

Pioneer HDJ-2000

The HDJ-2000 itself is quite a hansom affair. Pioneer have straddled the difficult gap between Consumer and Pro Audio looks with impressive results. The magnesium alloy used in the swivel mechanism for the cups feels solid and lightweight. The Auto return feature, or i-hinge as they call it, swivels the cups back to their original position. This works really well and feels like it should be there. The headband is un-fussy and practical, it can be bent until it is nearly flat without any damage and the retractable arms for fit sizing are simple but sensible. The folding system works perfectly, the unit is actually quite small when folded. The Ear pads are made of an artificial Protein Leather, which I found convincingly leather like and comfy, these are filled with a heat reactive memory foam, not unlike the ever popular Comply tips. The heavy-duty build quality makes the HDJ-2000 durable and portable. The cable is fully replaceable, fitted to the headphone with a Mini XLR at the business end of a tough coiled 3m cable and a 3.5mm gold plated jack plug with 6.3mm adaptor at the other.

First Impressions

On first impressions, the sound is not exactly what I have come to expect from a DJ headphone, they have a more Hifi feel due to the level of detail, the sound feels pretty sophisticated. Although they have the typically short stereo imaging of a Closed back Headphone giving an inverted U shape to the audio, the separation is fantastic. You do not perceive that the sound extends far beyond your head but they feel uncluttered and the sense of space within the soundstage feels natural also the background is relatively dark.

The HDJ-2000s’ 50mm driver units with high-flux magnets create convincing resolution, the top end feels bright but not aggressive, there is plenty of detail here but it never becomes constantly oppressive. Cymbals are handled really well. The bottom end is bigger than necessary for a balanced sound. The bass has body – there is decent weight but it is not excessive - the overall response is definitely big and warm but textured and controlled. The transition to the lower mids is well achieved with little evidence of mud. Mids follow a similar theme to the bass, warm and immediate, textured believable and engaging. Vocals were the big surprise, sweet and lush, quite forward but not overbearing. As the volume gets loud some elements can leap out as a little brash which makes them exciting, in quieter numbers the same effect comes across as sweetness. I would describe the sound as at the technically impressive end of fun sounding – a contemporary HiFi sound that suits the fan of complex Electronic music.

Verdict
The HDJ-2000 have superb clarity, clear instrument separation and maximum comfort whether you’re performing in a packed club, listening for fun or practising at home. Even though they are very detailed, their fresh feel does not seem to fatigue or overpower. They definitely go a lot further than the average DJ headphone by offering greater fidelity, a few really innovative features and a tough but comfy build.

Pioneer HDJ-1000

Pioneer HDJ-1000 has become a common choice for the Pro DJ over the last few years but also appeal to serious music fans too. This headphone works well for basic studio applications and making music at home. They offer great sound quality, lightweight design and are not bad looking either. The 50mm driver units have the same high-flux magnet technology found in the HDJ-2000 creating a very decent level of detail and bass that is deep, warm and lush.
To improve monitoring, there is also a convenient stereo/mono switch. Each ear-cup gives excellent isolation and swivels a full 90 degrees, supporting DJs who prefer the ‘on-shoulder’ method of monitoring. When not in use the HDJ-1000 folds to reduce size, the cable is a 3m coiled type which terminates in a 3.5mm jack and comes with a 6.3mm adaptor.
A great sounding and well thought out unit which certainly fits the brief of the contemporary DJ. Robust build and great sound quality, folding cups and decent cable should put this on your shortlist.

Pioneer HDJ-500

Pioneer HDJ-500 Closed Back headphones are the junior model in the Pioneer range. They have been designed for a flexible DJ lifestyle by adapting to both DJing at home, in a club or listening on the go.The HDJ-500 is engineered with 40mm driver units to strongly reproduce a rich low-range and the mid level frequencies needed for accurate monitoring. The lightweight stylish design utilises technology from the Pioneer flagship model the HDJ-2000.
With its 60º rotating arm structure and flexible headband, the HDJ-500 is also completely adaptable to your personal DJing style. Top quality and style and sound are no longer reserved solely for professional DJs, but are now available to anyone who wants to get the most out of their Electronic music. Included are a 3m cord for DJ use and a 1.2m Single-sided coiled cable with 3.5 mm gold-plated jack plug and a screw-on 6.35mm stereo adapter.Professional sounding and looking headphones which will work on the train, in the bedroom or at the club.

More Information

For more information on the Pioneer Headphone range please visit the HiFi Headphones store.

They are very sturdily built, with steel headbands and ear cups made from a robust PU material that can be wiped clean easily. These headphones are built for maximum durability.

We’ve tried some really quite severe tests, e.g. kicking the headphones, stamping on the headphones, twisting the headband in all directions, and so far we haven’t been able to leave any mark on the headphone.  It’s clear that GermanMeastro aimed to have buid the most robust headphone on the market.

These German Maestro headphones are the toughest we have ever seen.

Reviews

Headfonics: Review of the German Maestro GMP 8.35D

Dale on HiFi Headphones forum: Review of the German Maestro GMP 8.35D

More Information

To find our more about the nearly indestructible headphones from GermanMeastro please visit the HiFI Headphones store.

ClarityOne™ earphones aim to deliver the clearest, truest, best sound on the market today. Developed out of the belief that better speakers are needed to accurately reproduce what the artist has recorded. The technology for sound reproduction has not had any major advancement in decades. It took 12 years, 6-patents with more pending, but they believe they have come up with the perfect solution, enter the PureSound Processor and the ClarityOne™ earphones. Here is the short version of how they do this.

“Your music is a signal. Every other speaker in the world is made the same, based on ideas dating back to before there were cars. When your player sends the signal to your earbuds a field is built around the voice coil and it robs you of harmonics, volume and creates distortion. Our patented processor holds this field in a magnetic gap and does not allow it to alter the signal in any way so you have all the music that was recorded in perfect Clarity. The industry benchmark for testing this is a square wave test. The reason is the only a square wave has all harmonics and the associated sub harmonics. We are THE ONLY audio reproduction company that can achieve this and promise perfect sound quality. Square wave in, square wave out. A bonus is that it actually makes your players battery last longer because we can use 8 ohms, less resistance, and we have no counter EMF back to your player.” - ClarityOne

This is breakthrough technology. The earphones sound incredibly clean - So clean they make you question what you have heard from every single earphone you have previously spent time with. The difference is so shocking its hard to even make comparisons in the same price bracket, in fact, the general feel of Electrostatics and Magna-planers is the closest I can come.

PureSound Processor - IEMs may never be the same!

The PureSound Processor circuit provides an economical solution for achieving perfect phase unity between amplifiers and multiple driver systems, it is not a crossover, it is a coupling unit. Unlike traditional crossovers, PureSound Processor´s patented technology cancels out the Counter EMF and at the same time provides a two way magnetic brake on the voice coil which “couple” it to the amplifier, therefore allowing it to operate freely with no added distortions allowing for pure sound to enter the system (at Crossover) and pure sound to exit (to the speaker).

The sound signature is a gentle smile curve with tons of bottom end and a rich cool feel to the mids and highs. Talking about sound with this product is tough because they really do sound very different, really open and spacious. The result is a very natural sweet sound which is really quite compelling. The worst part is going back to your original earphones, I have what I consider to be very good earphones but it is just not possible to feel that the ClarityOnes’s are anything other than a huge step forward.

“Modern day speakers use a simple voice coil or a single coil crossover, a technology that was developed almost a century ago. Its original design was for electric motors. Early audio engineering pioneers found a way they could make it work in a new speaker design at the time but in doing so they also created audio’s greatest Achilles heel. The reason is that all audio signals that go through a voice coil or a coil crossover are subject to interference. We know of this evil as distortion and loss of harmonics or your sound.” - ClarityOne

ClarityOne™ aim to test all traditionally accepted limits of technical beliefs and design, they say they didn’t want to create just good headphones, they wanted to create the best headphones ever. ClarityOne™ are well aware that sound is a very subjective area, the best IEM in the world is a noble goal, at the moment they will have to be happy with possibly revolutionising the market.

More Information

More information on the full range of ClarityOne™ can be found here.

Compared to giant PA stacks at festivals and floor standing HiFi Speakers, headphones and earphones look small and harmless. But what matters is how much the sound makes your eardrums vibrate. In fact, most earphones can produce a louder sound at the eardrum than all but the largest and most powerful studio monitoring loudspeakers, and can easily give noise exposures well above the accepted safety limits.

Earphones don’t sound as loud as loudspeakers even when the sound level at the eardrum is the same. This may happen because the brain isn’t fooled into thinking the sound is “outside” - it can work out that that the music is right next to your head and so expects it to sound loud and compensates.

Unlike loudspeakers neighbours will not complain if kids are listening at high volumes, with earphones people can get an excessive dose of sound without themselves or anyone else realising it! You can’t assume that equipment made for the domestic market will be safe to do a lot of listening. A 2010 study found that an iPod Nano set on maximum volume, using the standard ear-buds, produced a one-hour average sound level of 96 dB with a popular album, a higher average than is allowed in the workplace.

Should MP3 player use be limited?

Noise-induced hearing loss can be caused by two types of noise. Sudden bursts, such as firearms and fireworks, can immediately cause hearing loss in children, who are often reluctant to report such exposures to their parents. The other type is continuous exposure to loud noise, which can damage the ears over time. Sources of continuous noise include motorized recreational vehicles, loud sporting events, power tools and amplified music.

Although the maximum volume limit is adjustable on many current MP3 players you cannot be certain children will not disable this function. A survey sponsored by the Australian government found that about 25 percent of people using portable stereos had daily noise exposures high enough to cause long term hearing damage. Further research from the Netherlands reports that 90 percent of adolescents listened to music through earphones on MP3 players, almost half used high-volume settings, and only 7 percent used a noise limiter.

Medical Studies

Researchers at Boston Children’s Hospital determined that listening to a portable music player with headphones at 60 percent of their potential volume for one hour a day is relatively safe. For continuous noise exposure such as music, the level and duration of exposure are important. It takes repeated exposures over many years to cause a gradual onset of noise-induced hearing loss in both children and adults

Portable music players have sparked recent concern since they are used frequently and with earphones that deliver the sound directly to the ear. This is however not the whole of the story as the MP3 player used is not the only factor in deciding the actual volume at the ear. Headphones themselves have an electrical resistance, the higher this resistance the lower the volume outcome for the power of the MP3 Player. Choosing Headphones correctly can stop hearing damage from occurring at all.

MP3 players were investigated thoroughly by Portnuff, a graduate student at the University of Colorado, and Fligor, Director of Diagnostic Audiology at Children’s Medical Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston.

Portnuff and Fligor measured specific sound levels that come out of five common portable music players including the Apple iPod, the Creative Zen Micro and the SanDisk Sansa. For each player, they measured sound levels in music transmitted by several different types of headphones. Interestingly, they found that all five music players output very similar sound levels, especially at the highest volume levels. The highest volumes can be so dangerous that the researchers only recommend listening at those levels a few minutes a day, if at all.

“Damage to hearing occurs when a person is exposed to loud sounds over time…the risk of hearing loss increases as sound is played louder and louder for longer durations.” explains Portnuff.

“It is important to note, though, that not everyone shares the same risk of hearing loss,” Portnuff explains. Some people have “tougher” ears, for them the recommendations are overly cautious. For other people with more “tender” ears, these recommendations do not eliminate the risk of hearing loss.

Do speech and music affect hearing differently from industrial noise?

Many people find it difficult to believe that listening to music can be a hazard to hearing. But there’s little evidence that loud music, however harmonious, is actually safer than unpleasant noise that would measure the same on a sound level meter. So far as the law protecting people at work is concerned, loud music or speech is just another hazardous noise. Speech on earphones can give an excessive noise dose, just as much as music so when people are working with reproduced sound, safety must be taken seriously.

Noise and the causes of hearing loss?

The American National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders reports approximately 28 million Americans have lost some or all of their hearing, including 17 in 1,000 children under age 18. Overexposure to noise can cause both temporary and permanent hearing loss, sadly very little has been reported on the risk of such hearing loss in children.

Very loud sounds damage the inner ear by damaging the hair cells of the cochlea. When loud sounds are exposed to the ear for a short time, one may experience what’s called a temporary threshold shift, or a temporary hearing loss. This hearing loss may be accompanied by tinnitus (a ringing in the ears). One may recover from the temporary loss. But if the ear is exposed to loud sounds over longer periods of time, the hair cells can be permanently damaged, causing permanent sensorineural hearing loss.

Effects on preschool Children and School age Children

The following effects on preschool children and schoolchildren have been

considered by researchers from around the world:

-Hearing impairment

-Effects on sleep

-Stress-related somatic effects

-Cognitive effects

-Vocal nodules

Noise-induced somatic effects (such as on blood pressure and hormone levels) can best be considered as part of a stress response of children to their noisy environment.

Psychological and cognitive processes also play a role in this stress response of children. Somatic (physiological) results should therefore be considered together with psychological outcomes to give an overall insight in the problem. As in adults, children can react very differently to stimulus. Some children can find loud noises terrifying whilst others do not seem bothered, this is not an indication that damage is or is not occurring.

Hearing impairment

Young children may be more susceptible to noise-induced hearing impairment than adults. Results of experiments with mice, an animal with the same physiology of the hearing organ as humans, give the effect of exposure to very high noise levels as a function of the age of the mouse. The effect has been assessed by counting hair cell loss in exposed mice killed after noise exposure or by measuring cochlear microphonics in living mice. The effect is presented relative to the effect at the age of 4 days. If developmental stage of mice is converted to that of human children (the lower figure), susceptibility to hearing impairment in preschool and school children is greater than that of adults, at least for very high levels of noise exposure. Whether this also applies to the real-life noise exposure of children is currently unknown.

Acoustic Shock – Could Children be safer wearing Headphones?

Acoustic Shock is a temporary or permanent disturbance of the functioning of the ear, or of the nervous system. It is noted that an acoustic shock usually results from the occurrence, in abnormal circumstances, of short-lived high voltages at the terminals of a telephone headset or similar.

There are several different design approaches to combating these occurrences, including low-powered active circuits, but all provide the same protection for the end user. Some use signal processing to significantly enhance the user’s listening comfort and require batteries. Now power free acoustic technology is beginning to appear more readily – this is a passive form of protection using a fast acting system which closes in response to high sound pressure levels. This type of is likely to be recommended for children as there are no batteries and the products are hard to damage in normal use. These types of headphones may even protect a child from external noise as closed back headphones give a reduction in the region of 17db – 27db, enough to avoid acoustic shock in some circumstances.

What does the law say about high sound levels?

Noise at work in the UK is governed by the Control of Noise at Work Regulations (part of the Health and Safety at Work Act.) The regulations affect employers, employed people, and the self-employed (who count as both). The current UK law came into force on 6 April 2006.

The new Noise at Work Directive, introduced on 6 April 2006, stipulates that employees must not be exposed to more than a maximum 87dB(A) when at work. This is really important as agents need reassurance that hours of headset use won’t damage their health.

The directive defines two critical levels for noise exposure throughout a working day. For up to 80dB(A) the employer has no obligations. Between 80dB(A) and 85dB(A) the employer should offer hearing protection and education. For levels exceeding 85dB the employees must be provided with and wear hearing protective equipment. Employees of companies producing high noise levels must even attend formal courses with safety training.

How can I Protect Children from excessive noise in Headphones?

If children will be using portable audio equipment (you try to stop them!) then responsible parents will want a safety method that limits noise exposure without constant supervision. Protection in the form of powered adapter using signal processing to significantly enhance the user’s listening comfort is a safe method but requires batteries to work. Modern headphones are usually very sensitive as they have to work with battery powered mp3 players and similar devices. So when you plug them into a mains operated unit they can usually produce very high sound levels!

Passive Acoustic limiting technology is beginning to appear more readily (dB Logic Childrens headphones) which is a form of protection which pulls volume back in response to high sound pressure levels. This technology is likely to become commonly recommended for children as there are no batteries and the units are very robust and resistant to play use.

dB Logic HP-100 Closed Back Sound Pressure Limiting Headphones with No Batteries! Limited to 85dB of Sound Pressure

More Information

More information on the full range of dB Logic products can be found here.

Hand built in Germany and supplied with a 3 year warranty, the German Maestro headphone range is designed to be suitable for studio and home listening.

After the ultra successful MB Quart speaker Brand was purchased (and it’s operations moved to the USA) it was decided that the team responsible for the designs should carry on creating beautifully engineered German products.

The GermanMAESTRO Team are continuing their tradition of best-in-class loudspeaker and headphone design, hand crafting in their renowned Obrigheim German factory, and now their products are here available in the UK.

GermanMAESTRO creates

for audio enthusiasts

The new products are designed to deliver superior levels of detail, long term product durability, and high SPL capabilities for ProAudio. GermanMAESTRO promise nothing about their new listening systems will be anything less than extraordinary and say their goal is “ultimate satisfaction” for the end user.

“To hear is to distinguish. The human ear receives acoustic vibrations and translates every whisper, thunderclap and minute detail into the listening experience. When our auditory senses are stimulated by an acoustic source that satisfies the spirit, a feeling of true listening pleasure is achieved.” GermanMAESTRO

GermanMAESTRO seem to have a real love of invention and pursue new design technologies and materials in their search for excellence. The use of titanium, fiberglass reinforced ABS, unique Poly-comp cone material, and special crossover technologies were key to the development of this new range of headphones. Plastics which cannot tear or shatter and are near impossible to deform are used for the housing construction. Equipped with high-grade drivers, lightweight sandwich diaphragms and copper-plated aluminium voice coils, there are some serious ideas at work inside these cans. Some models, like the GMP400 and GMP450 Pro, have the driver suspended and isolated from the frame, just like a high end vocal microphone sitting in it’s nest. This is called “cardamatic suspension” and is designed to stop external vibration translating to the voice coil but also increases comfort for the wearer too.

It has become fashionable to claim products are used by the professionals, GermanMAESTRO headphones can genuinely be found performing a multitude of Pro Audio tasks. The GMP 8.35 D is part of the 8.000 Series which encompasses similar looking but differently featured pro models. Each model within the 8.000 Series has a distinct job and therefore individual features, they are diverse in application with uses from Pilot headsets to high end display units in National chain stores. There is a high impedance 8.000 Series model, the GMP 8.300 D, which has a nominal impedance of 300ohms and might be of interest to audiophiles or studio musicians.

Almost to temper the hard edge of scientific invention, handcrafted precision is incorporated into the GermanMAESTRO final assembly process. This guarantees that in both form and function every headphone will meet or exceed performance expectations, in fact every headphone has it’s own unique serial number. We might call this level of attention to detail German Engineering, but they insist it is nothing more than the passion of the GermanMAESTRO Team who feel you can hear the difference this makes.

Standout GermanMAESTRO models

GMP 400 - The GMP 400 is designed as an Open Back Studio mix tool and for Audiophile listening. Uncompromising sound reproduction with crystal clear trebles, rich detail in the mid-range and precise dynamic response of bass reproduction. The technical features are very impressive: Sandwich-diaphragm, copper plated aluminium voice coils, ear cups with cardamatic suspension. Immediately I find myself comparing the build, sound and feel to that of the Beyerdynamic DT880 250ohm (housing is near indestructible plastic rather than metal), there is plenty of space with excellent sound stage, tons of detail but a natural and ‘real’ weight to the sound. The DT880 is slightly more musical with a bit more speed and presence, slightly prettier sounding I guess. Pro Audio is the natural stomping ground for these very accurate cans, I believe they would make a fantastic mix tool with plenty enough definition to really get to the bottom of serious mix problems. For Audiophile listening a powerful well chosen amp (the drivers are 300ohm) will light up the GMP 400′, twinned with the excellent Icon Audio HP8 MkII they completely blew our pair of Sennheiser HD650’s away. Ear pads made of a top-quality soft velour and a gold plated screw on 3.5mm - 6.3mm Jack plug give an extra touch of comfort and functionality.

GMP 450 PRO - The GMP 450 like the GMP 400, the GMP 450 follows the specific needs of professional users in special environments, all the characteristics of the GMP 400 have been packed into an acoustically closed version. Ideally suited for a variety of studio applications and recording sessions where noise shielding is required. Perfect for monitoring playback during performance, although sound stage is inevitably shortened due to the closed back there is still a clean clear stereo image to work with, in fact it is surprising how much of the character of the open backed GMP400 the closed GMP450’s retain. Audiophiles who are listening in a room where noise from others will interfere with a listening session will find them similarly accomplished to an Audio Technica ATH-M50 or a slightly livelier version of Beyers excellent DT770 with much lighter housing. 300ohm drivers will again need a powerful amp, the model is finished with soft leatherette ear pads which musicians or any active wearer will certainly find practical.

GMP 8.35 D Monitor - The GMP 8.35 D Professional music production and monitoring is the intended application for this model, acoustically the GMP 8.35 D Monitor has dynamic bass response and overall transparency in the midrange with plenty of detail and control throughout. The headphone’s low-impedance and highly sensitive drivers are able to adapt to the widest range of equipment, at home with a mixing desk or your iPod. The sound is similar to a Beyer DT770 but a little brighter with slightly less weight at the bottom. Superior diaphragms with copper-plated voice coils create a precise resolution across the frequency-range. With a closed leatherette ear cup and one-sided cable design the GMP 8.35 D is the ideal partner for the project studio or Field Recordist. The GMP 8.35 D is constructed from durable PE material which makes them nearly indestructible. The padded headband and leatherette earpads create a really comfortable listening experience, they would work well as an everyday headphone for the Audiophile who requires awesome sound quality and low impedance with maximum durability for portable use.

The GermanMAESTRO Look

Apparently a favourite for many German engineers, their commitment to technical detail has enabled GermanMAESTRO to produce a range of accurate headphones which are not clinical in sound but actually quite natural feeling. They see their goal as providing the listener access to every nuance, an excellent sound experience for Audio Professionals or enthusiasts alike. If I had to find a fault with these I would probably say that the Germans should have had a brief word with the Italians before they styled them, they do lack sex appeal. I don’t see this as a problem though. These days everything from your soap dish to your stapler has had the designer treatment. In a market where recent brands want (Justin Bieber) to convince you that their fashionable noise cancellers are actually studio headphones in disguise, many feel it refreshing when an object looks like it should. GermanMAESTRO have (intentionally or un-intentionally) given their range an Anti-Fashion appeal - they look like studio quality headphones because they are studio quality headphones.

More Information

More information on the full range of GermanMAESTRO can be found here.

Meet the New

SoundMAGIC Earphones

The new range updates some existing models but also adds some completely new ideas, some previously unused materials and more colour choices.

The SoundMAGIC E10 is a beautifully finished in-ear sound isolating earphone made from brushed metal with a choice of four vibrant colours. The E10’s internal acoustic design follows on from the massively popular PL11, but with some serious improvements to the aesthetics and sound. The earphone body is made from metal, features high quality cabling and a robust metal jack plug to give a long life.

The SoundMAGIC E30 is for those who are serious about their portable listening the E30 in-ear monitor features pro-fit over ear cabling and a robust metal jack plug.  Why compromise with audio quality when listening to music on the move, when you can enjoy a high definition audio experience from these pocket sized earphones.

The SoundMAGIC EH11 is a rugged sports headphone designed for serious everyday use by sports men and women.  Made from a lightweight metal frame the EH11 headphone stays in the ear no matter how hard you are training thanks to an over ear design that can be adjusted to fit perfectly.

Finally and possibly most interesting is the SoundMAGIC P30, is a serious portable headphone featuring an on-ear closed back design with soft, comfortable ear pads that also ensure maximum noise isolation.

These new products will appear over the Summer of 2011, expect reviewers to urge you to upgrade your present SoundMAGICs, or if you’re new to the brand, to grab yourself some inexpensive audio treasure!

More Information

More information on the full range of SoundMAGIC products can be found here.

Who are Just Audio?

Just Audio is the brain child of Justin Harris, an experienced electronics/embedded software engineer with a love of Music and Hi Fi, whom previously has worked professionally in the mobile/wireless devices product creation domain. His passion is infectious, he obviously relishes the chance to talk about his ideas, electronics in general and getting the very best out of Hi Fi gear. Justin has worked for some of the mobile phone manufacturing giants, you may even have some kit he was involved in already.
“This all started with designing some functionality to incorporate into my modified Quad 405 power amplifiers, to enable standby and best in class audio detection and wake-up functionality, with the intention to make this in such a way that it could be retro-fitted without making a mess of the existing internals. ”

It was a desire to get the very best of his own Hi Fi kit which lead to the ground up designs for the uHA-120 and now it’s Class A big brother the AHA-120.

In 2009 he decided to start his own company. “The main theme originally was modularity and utilisation of surface mount technology to enable making the modules small enough to fit in tight spaces. I wanted to make operation seem natural and intuitive to the end-user and perform better than other implementations that I’d experienced myself.”
Having such a strong engineering background seems to have provided Justin with an understanding that  individuality, through modularity and customisation, will develop products with the end user always in mind. It can take a long time to find the bit of kit which has all the required abilities and compliments existing headphones or source. By understanding the wants and needs of the enthusiast he hopes to be able to bridge these difficult gaps for customers whilst keeping an eye on the shifting sands of the audiophile landscape.

“By early 2010 We had started to think along the lines of making a complete product that could be tested to the relevant standards. We had already built up a library of components and a capability to produce electronics modules. I’d been studying on various audio amplifier topologies and experimenting with my own Hi-Fi system at home, attaining both measurable and perceivable improvements. I’d also been looking at headphone amplification projects and products out of passing interest for some time and had already built my own headphone amp for use when I was working at the office. The idea occurred too me, why not use the technological advances to make a pocket sized headphone amplifier more akin to the standard one would expect from a respectable desktop amplifier. Of course, the idea of creating a pocket sized amp isn’t new, but we noticed that everyone in this market seemed to be just using an operational amplifier or some form of dedicated amplifier IC combination. Coming more from a Hi-Fi power amplifier interest area, we felt that using a commercial IC would never provide the same level of audio quality as a carefully crafted discrete circuit, so I set about building some prototypes of more discrete topologies usually found in larger power amplifiers. A few months later we had determined most of the system level components (battery, charging, connectors, volume control pot), along with a hybrid class AB topology that we had built in enough flexibility to fine tune and provide what I felt is a more High Fidelity sound, yet able to operate from a low voltage power source.”

With a direction that many enthusiasts will recognise Justin is still committed to customisation and the minor adjustments that provide the best possible performance. So far he has carried out many mods working closely with customers requirements. Several such projects have seen him build a range of Studio quality cabling and adding mods to hardware which have helped  him shape the future direction of the Just Audio range and additional services. More about Justin’s big plans for the future of Just Audio and functionality upgrades (which will be available for existing Just Audio amp owners too) later on.

AHA-120 Put To The Test

Having a Pair of  the truly excellent Beyerdynamic 600ohm Tesla T1 Headphones at my disposal, Justin suggested he send me the Just Audio Class A AHA-120 to test. Quite a few manufacturers have products in this small niche market, some fail to deliver improved sound quality or improved player usability with hard to power headphones, Justin expects the AHA-120 will be a great match to the T1’s. I have been using the excellent iBasso D10 with headphones regularly and also other acclaimed portable amps for some time now, this will be the first proper portable test with the Beyer T1’s.

Many audiophiles believe that class A gives the best sound quality with its absence of crossover distortion and reduced harmonic distortion. Class A amplifiers are typically more linear and less complex than other types, but they are very inefficient. This type of amplifier is perfect though for driving sensitive low distortion headphones where the listener wants the very best audio quality, without the massive electricity bill potential of a full sized class A HiFi system at home! Operating in class A means that the amplifier is always passing current through upper and lower sections of the electronics even when there is no signal, negating any artifacts as a result of the transistors turning off and back on again during the amplification process. The Amp arrives in it’s plain box  - usually an exciting sign. Inside the box there is bubble wrapped AHA-120, a mini usb cable and four self adhesive stick on feet. Inside the bubble wrap bag with the amp is a silica gel sachet, included to prevent any moisture in the air from condensing and damaging the product. Removing the amp from the bubble wrap bag it becomes clear that extruded aluminium case is flawless with a soft anodised finish, and ultra fine print on both the front and rear panels. The company logo on the front panel is in colour and the serial number on the rear panel is engraved, which is a nice touch. The version I have is a product sample and is already burned in.

I can’t resist turning the large volume knob, switching the unit on revealing two things - a warm Amber glow from the LED and the silky smoothness with which the volume turns. The Aluminium case with soft anodised finish is solid and picking it up the unit weighs neither more nor less than expected - it is a little large though compared to most portable amps (26mm x 80mm x126mm, the uHA-120 is much smaller - 23mm x 52mm x 85mm) but still has a very small footprint when used as a desktop amp. Print work is detailed is flawless with all controls well labelled, panel fixings appear to be stainless steel. At the front, right to left, you have the chunky volume knob with accompanying Amber on/off LED, next the 3.5mm output then the input and finally a five-way selector nob for impedance matching your headphones. This feature is probably more accurately described as class A biasing level, most users would like to match current setting to  their headphones, this is simplified by just providing a selector for selecting the amount of bias needed to maintain class A operation for a given headphone impedance. Without this feature the battery would apparently only last around 18 hours whereas now you can get up to 60 hours of battery operation when driving 600 ohm headphones. Round the back there is an engraved serial number, USB charging socket and red to Green Charge LED and two small charging operation switches for charging management with other USB devices. The AHA-120 contains a Vishay P11 potentiometer mounted on a solid ground plain PCB, low ESR Capacitors, Burr Brown Opamp to provide a FET input stage and Alps switches. The flat front panel sockets feel rather nice and connection seems very solid and reliable with a very positive feel to the connection.

The first device I connect to the AHA-120 is my iPod touch via an iBasso CB07 pure Oxy sealed LOD cable, I plug in the Beyer T1’s and turn the five-way switch to 600. Firing up the first lossless track, Radiohead - Pyramid Song, I am instantly impressed with the balance of weight and air, there is an instant feeling of synergy between amp and headphones.  As the song unfolds I find myself closing my eyes and feeling my way around the stereo image. There is real texture to the sound which is vivid, heavy and fluid - detail is is apparent but subtle giving structure and very accurate movement to each instrument. The piano in this track is distractingly pretty and I am already excited to try plenty of other favourite music. There is a ton of headroom and I never get the white marker on the volume control much past 12 o’ clock.The iPod touch is surprisingly charged twice in two days before the amps lithium polymer battery runs flat, which I had not expected at all. It isn’t the best I’ve heard from the T1’s, but the iPod is the most likely culprit and I will put that to the test next. After a decent couple of hours with this initial setup I connect the AHA-120 to the analogue outs on a broadcast quality sound card (running .WAVs from a Mac Book Pro) and revisit the first track I heard. Within seconds I’m glaring at my iPod and shaking my head in disappointment as if it had just kicked a football through my kitchen window. This shows the pairing has real merit, as inferior sources are often shown up by a great headphone/amp combination. The sound is more lush with even more realistic texture and structure, solid and powerful but lighter, quicker. I run through a few classical favourites (this is, to date, the best I have heard Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No2) and the first bad thing I think is when I realise that I have to give the amp back. It follows me everywhere with the iPod touch, great results with Ultrasone Pro 900, Beyer DT770 and DT880, Sennheiser HD650 and HD600 and fantastic in 32ohm mode with my Grado 325is, until sadly it has to go back. Just Audio have a balanced configuration ,using two AHA-120, which includes either balanced XLR or Jack output into the amps and a HD650 balanced cable. Justin expects Beyer T1 and Sennheiser HD800 users will be interested in a cable mod or replacement cable to use this configuration too.

The AHA-120 is very accurate but has a lush warmth which adds to its very real sound. It seemed to encourage the already super clean Beyer T1’s to find convincing sculptural depth in some quite difficult recordings. As promised Just Audio seem to have built a portable Class A which can contribute the power and finesse needed for high impedance, flagship model headphones.

Future Just Audio Projects

Just Audio have some exciting projects under way. They are currently designing a very forward thinking DAC which may be modular, new Balanced operation cables are available now with more cable variants to come and Balanced amps may eventually appear. Due to customer demand some iPod modifications may be added to their service repertoire and customisation of Just Audio amps will continue to be carried out for the best possible operation with specific headphones. Thanks to Justin for talking to me, the loan of the AHA-120 and for the use of the Photos.

Just Audio at Head-fi Meet

Just Audio will be attending the London Head-fi meet where you can try the AHA-120 and uHA-120 for yourself and pick Justin’s brain about his approach to Audio Design. He will be there with another of our favourite HiFi people, Mark Dolbear who will have the latest HiFiMan HE-5LE and HE-6 and Schiit Audio amps on display and for you to try.

More Information

More information on the full range of Just Audio Products can be found here.

STAX Earspeakers return with a new range of their world famous STAX Electrostatic headphones for 2011

Founded in 1938, originally manufacturing high frequency condenser microphones and later Record Player cartridges, in 1960 STAX launched the Electrostatic Earspeaker with the STAX SR-1 and has been building amazing headphones ever since.

Electrostatic Technology

Electrostatic drivers consist of a very thin electrically charged diaphragm, typically stretched and coated polyethylene terephthalate (a unique STAX polymer formula) is used for its high tensile strength to create the membrane. This is suspended between two perforated metal plates (the electrodes), when an electrical sound signal is applied to the electrodes, creating an electrical field, the diaphragm is drawn towards one of the plates depending on the polarity of the field. Air is then forced through the perforations, when combined with the continuously fluctuating electrical signal driving the membrane a sound wave is generated.

Due to the extremely thin diaphragm membrane, which is only a few micrometers thick, the frequency response of electrostatic headphones usually extends far beyond the normal human hearing range of up to 20kHz. The high frequency response means that the low mid band distortion level is maintained right to the top of our audible frequency band. The peaks regularly seen in higher frequency regions with moving coil drivers is almost completely absent with the result being much more stable and accurate sound reproduction.

Electrostatic headphones are powered  by a special amplifier that is required to create the signal to deflect the membrane and needs electrical potential in the range of 100 to 1000 volts, these are often referred to as energisers. With this amount of power in proximity to a user’s head the usual method of making this safe is to limit the possible fault current to a low value with resistors.

What do they sound like?

Well, they sound great! Fast and fluid with superb separation - it is this separation of the instruments which really provides the difference between dynamic headphones and Electrostatics. You have the same sense of space normally associated with open backs but each instrument really feels contained in its own bubble, the incredible detail gives the sharpest image that seems vivid and realistic, strangely natural in its lack of grain. The precision of the sound, their natural airy feel and the sculptural solidity they give to instruments lends itself to Classical music, Vocal and Choral music, Folk and Acoustic and Jazz. Classic Rock and Pop mostly work well but the Contemporary love of heavy limiting and compression means many recent recordings have too little space and punch too hard to take advantage of the subtlety on offer.

STAX New range for 2011

This is the biggest shake up of the STAX range for a very long time. New features include -

-10 position ratchet adjustment on headband   (SR-507 Only)

-New Diaphragm assembly (higher resolution)

-Casing is now a less resonant resin formula

-Sheepskin cushions   (SR-507 Only)

Basic System SRS-2170-This is a combination of the SR-207 Earspeaker and SRM-252S compact size Driver unit. The SR-207 employs the same elements developed for the new Lambda Series. The LC-OFC cable of the SR207 gives clear high-frequency sound and lowered capacitance. The SRM-252S Driver unit incorporates an all-stage balanced circuit DC amplifier configuration despite its diminutive size.

Classic System SRS-3170- This is a standard combination of SR-307and SRM-323S with all-stage direct-coupled balanced output. The SR-307 has a completely new diaphragm, now sharing more features with the Signature System there has been a fundamental change of specification, low capacity PC-OCC cable, gold plated terminals and open air enclosure all appear in the Classic System.

Signature System SRS-4170- This is the high-quality combination of the SR-407 Earspeaker and the SRM-006tS Driver unit with balanced input. The SR-407 features the same membrane technology as the SR-507, the top model of the lambda series. The SRM-006tS Driver unit with balanced input boasts a fully balanced circuit configuration from input to output through the custom made double-axis 4-gang volume controller.

More Information

For more information on the STAX Earspeakers range please visit the HiFi Headphones store.