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Build your own Grado style headphones

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Grado

Build your own Grado style headphones tutorial with Symphones V8 drivers

  • Do you have a pair of Grados?
  • Have you upgraded them to wood cups?
  • Are you looking to build your own Grado style headphones?

If the answer to any of these is yes, then read ahead.

So who are Symphones? Symphones started off modifying Grado headphones with their original Magnum modifications. They then went on to develop Grado style drivers that slot right into most Grado cups and aftermarket cups. Today we are looking at the V8 drivers, their latest offering that are very different in design to the V7.
A big part of driver tuning is adding dampening materials to the diaphragm and magnet, and the new V8 have a completely new driver coating.

The V8 drivers in this review are installed in Rholupat spalted tamarind cups with a Grado SR60e headband and SMC connectors to allow for detachable cables. The cable used is made from Van Damme minature starquad.

So what do you need?

Some Symphones V8 Drivers: https://www.symphones.com/shop/symphones-v8

You will then need suitable cups to install the drivers in, the drivers will fit into all Grado cups excluding the PS/GS series. Please take care when removing the old drivers as to not damage the cups you will be installing the drivers into.

Alternatively you can buy wooden cups from a couple of places:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/ShipiboAudio

http://www.rholupat.com/

http://www.ellevenacoustica.com/

https://wabisabiheadphones.wordpress.com/

Once you have the cups you need a headband with gimbals from your old Grados, or a Sony MDR7506 headband. Alternatively Rholupat and Shipibo offer nice leather headbands and also aluminium gimbals and rodblocks.

The Symphones drivers will need soldering to your cable of choice and installing into the cups, to make sure they press fit tightly you may need a strip of insultion tape around the edge of the driver. I have installed SMC connectors into the cups so I can change cables if I need to.

Now you come to earpad selection, Grado OEM pads, or generic cheap eBay ones, take your pick but they all change the sound.

Symphones have tuned the V8 drivers to be used with OEM G-Cush pads, and the main review will be based using those.

Generic G-Cush pads add a little more body to the sound, but are not as detailed and clean sounding as the OEM G-Cush pads.

OEM L-Cush pads also work very well with these drivers, giving them the more aggressive Grado style sound, over the more spacious G-Cush sound.

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READ MORE: Grado SR80e Headphone Review

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Sound:

  • Bass:

The bass is not as full as the newer E series of Grado, but it is more controlled and also extends lower, digging right down into the sub-bass with ease. The bass is still quite Grado like being about quality over quantity but it is cleaner and more separated. The bass never encroaches on the midrange, and the punch is really good on the V8 drivers. Changing the earpads affects the bass the most, with generic G-Cush and OEM L-Cush pads adding a few extra dB’s of bass which may appeal to some people. The bass is more dynamic and full on the V8 drivers than the lower end Grados, sounding more realistic in tone.

  • Midrange:

The midrange sounds like a veil has been lifted, comparing to the Grado lineup you need to go to the PS500e at least to get this level of detail however the V8 are more spacious sounding. They still have the slightly aggressive tone to them, but are far more open soundstage wise. The upper midrange is not quite as upfront as Grados, leading to a slightly less fatiguing sound and also very minimal sibilance unless the recording has it. The midrange sits ever so slightly behind the lows and highs quantity wise, but not enough for it to be classed as recessed. The clarity and separation of the V8’s is what sets them apart from the original Grado drivers.

  • Treble:

The treble from the V8’s is smoother and more refined than the peakier Grado drivers. In terms of quantity it is still up there with most Grados however they are better separated and airy, with less peaks and more effortless extension. I never find them to be grating and they compliment the rest of the sound perfectly. If you are used to more bassy headphones, yes these will sound a little bright, however I find the highs to be quite well balanced with the rest of the range.

  • Soundstage and Imaging

More precise and also quite a lot wider than original Grados which are more direct and in your face. There is a lot of air between intruments and percussion comes through with excellent tone and control.

Conclusion:

These are an excellent upgrade for your current Grados or for a scratch build, they offer a more vivid and dynamic sound over original drivers. They sound as if a veil has been lifted from the whole sound, and the soundstage and imaging is far superior to lower end Grados. Articulate and dynamic lows, crystal clear midrange and sparkly highs, all that you love from Grados but supercharged.

Best On Ear Headphones To Buy in 2017 – Expert Reviews

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Best On Ear Headphones 2017

Looking for a new pair of on-ear headphones?  We’ve collected the best on ear, open back, closed back and portable headphones to buy in 2017 and reviewed them to help you choose.

Shop: Visit our on-ear headphones store

Read More: Best In Ear Headphone Buying Guide

Best On Ear Headphones under £50

SoundMAGIC P22C

SoundMAGIC takes a lot of beating in this price category – the brand is a natural at making low cost headphones which sound much pricier.

The P22C model is a lightweight portable with a flat tangle-free cable and good isolation. Ideal for travel and holidays, these will fit right in to any bag or backpack when stored in their low profile travel case. The P22C included a microphone for phone usage and the remote is compatible with both Android and Apple devices.

Sound is impressive for this price point, with plenty of detail and a good kick to the bass without overpowering the mid range.

Engaging and fun-sounding, the P22C will make the absolute most of the output from any portable player.

Edifier P650

The Edifier P650 is a smartphone friendly, easy to carry portable headphone that punch above their weight and price.

Offering a well balanced sound with a little added kick down low, the midrange is clean and detailed and the treble isn’t far behind. The bass does not have the most sub-bass rumble but for a quick and easy to use, on the go headphone they offer great sound.

What impresses most is their ability to portray the whole frequency range in a well controlled and balanced manner, too many budget headphones overload you with muddy bass, yet these offer plenty of detail but are also easy to listen to; a no brainer at this price point.

Koss PortaPro

The simple design and great sound keeps them viable while the open-back design, whilst not being the best for isolation of course, is perfect for those who wish to be aware of what’s going on around them such as joggers, and muggers.

The sound is generally well balanced between bass and treble, although the midrange can seem a bit distant and mushy. Bass is perhaps a bit on the heavy side, but it will definitely satisfy those who want a bassy sound. The Koss Porta Pro Classics offer a warmish sound overall.

Be aware though that their open-back nature means that they will be of limited use in noisy environments.

READ MORE: Koss PortaPro Full Review

Best On Ear Headphones under £150

B&W P3 Series 2

B&W have a long history of making excellent hifi products, and this has trickled down into their headphones.

The P3 are superbly built with an elegant and sophisticated look, the P3 really do impress. Lucikly they are not all about the look either, as the P3 offer a smooth and effortless sound that is akin to their house speaker sound. Offering excellent full bodied bass response with a non fatiguing and slightly sweet midrange and treble.

Comfortable, well built with a smooth and pleasing sound signature, the P3 are perfect for on-the-go use.

Sennheiser HD25-1 II

The HD25-1 II are one of the most well known on-ear headphones, this is partly due to their popularity as a DJ headphone. Used by DJ’s and sound engineers globally the HD25-1 II are a rugged portable headphone that will last for years.

Offering an immediate and aggressive sound they won’t give you a wide soundstage but will give you an engaging and detailed signature. The bass is tight and digs deep with excellent control and presence, the midrange is smooth yet very detailed and the treble has good extension and is very well placed in the mix.

If you are looking for a smooth laid back sound, the B&W are probably a better choice, but if you want a fun, upfront and engaging listen the HD25-1 II is for you. All parts are easily replaceable too, should anything ever break.

Grado SR80e

The Grado SR80e are a definite improvement over the SR80i, with a slightly warmer, more balanced sound. Their retro styling may not appeal to all, but underneath the looks is a fine sounding open-back headphone. The undisputed king of headphones for rock music, these are sure to get you toe tapping and head banging in no time.

These will not appeal to bass heads, they fair better with music that is played on real instruments. They have long been favourites for people that enjoy rock music due to the speed and control of the sound.

At the price point I still think Grado hold their own with a well balanced, aggressive and detailed sound, there is nothing quite like them.

READ MORE: Grado SR80e Full Review

Best On Ear Headphones under £250

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 2.0i

The Momentum series are hugely popular with on the go commuters, and for good reason. Offering stylish looks, a comfortable fit and a smooth easy to listen to sound.

Built to last with replaceable parts, the Momentum has slightly retro looks and comes in an array of colours. With playback controls on the cable you no longer have to take your phone out of your pocket. The sound is dynamic and punchy, offrering a slightly bass driven sound without sacrificing the midrange and treble. Engaging and fun are the best word to sum up the Momentum 2.0i.

Good looks and great sound, it is easy to see why the Momentum 2.0i is so popular with commuters. For Android users there is also the Sennheiser Momentum 2.0G.

Beyerdynamic T51i

The T51i have been around for a while now and are still excellent on-the-go headphones. They have a sturdy and sophisticated look, and offer a well balanced and detailed sound.

The T51i again tilts towards an easier to listen to sound, with a slight bass boost that gives the whole sound a little added body. There is sufficient detail across the range to keep them from sounding boring and what comes to mind when you put the T51i on is refinement.

With excellent build, comfy fit and refined sound the T51i has a lot to offer.

READ MORE: Beyerdynamic T51i Full Review

Bowers & Wilkins P5 Series 2

Leather earpads and a metal headband, the P5 Series 2 screams quality and luxury. The earpads are soft lambskin leather with memory foam inside, like cushions against your ears.

Like the P3 the P5 Series 2 has the typical B&W house sound, which is smooth and effortless. Offering a well balanced but slightly rich sound with superb separation and articulation, from highs to lows these sound very refined and grown up.

The P5 Series 1 look stunning, have replaceable cables and a smooth effortless sound, what is not to like?

READ MORE: Bowers & Wilkins P5 Series 2 Full Review

Best On Ear Headphones Over £250

Audeze Sine

Built from leather and metal, the Audeze Sine are built to last and also come with detachable cables. Using planar magnetic drivers they take a little more power than most phones can output, so they are best used with a high quality music player.

Give them a good source and the Sine in return give you excellent audio with snappy dynamics that can keep up with the most demanding of music. The bass is full yet superbly controlled, the midrange is where these excel not allowing the lows to affect them. Guitars have excellent power, and vocals come across with plenty of detail. The highs are present and well defined, but never become too hot and harsh.

The Sine are a mighty fine sounding on-ear headphone when driven well, and give you a full and detailed sound all

Best Earphones To Buy In 2017 – Expert Reviews

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Best In-Ear Headphones For 2017

Looking for a new pair of in-ear headphones?  We’ve collected the best earphones and earbuds available in 2017 and reviewed them to help you choose.

Shop: Visit our in-ear earphones store

Read More: Best Full Size Headphone Buying Guide

Best In-Ear Headphones Under £50

Edifier P281 Sport

Sleek sporty look with a perfect fit, the P281 Sport are some new budget kings on the block. Coming in at £24.99 they are a huge step up to any headphones that come with a phone.

Offering a well balanced sound with good kick down low, they offer an engaging and fun listening experience when out and about, yet still allow plenty of detail to be heard. From top to bottom there are not real peaks or dips, they have a smooth and easy to listen to sound. What is also great is the inclusion of a microphone and button for taking calls or skipping tracks.

SoundMAGIC E10C

What can be better than the award winning SoundMAGIC E10 for under £50? The E10C has the same superb build quality and sound signature as the E10 but with the added function of a universal smartphone in-line microphone – need we say more?

The E10C has tight bass with plenty of weight – the mids are well defined and the top end sparkles. These earphones are perfect for listening on the go as the sound is fun and they will sound great with whatever you throw at them.
If you have £40 to spend on some new earphones then go for the SoundMAGIC E10 – if you need an in-line microphone then go for the E10C. Easy.

MEE Audio M6 Pro

If you are looking for a more detailed and neutral sound than the E10C, take a look at the MEE Audio M6 Pro. With it’s monitor like sound and styling, detachable cable and great looks, it is a steal for under £50.

Well the M6 Pro with Blackbird S20 foam tips may have become a new favourite for under £50. These really managed to have everything and sound very engaging, the highs do not disappoint with their presence and tone, the midrange is slightly up front and the mid bass has a mild boost, as a stage monitor I can see these being good and the sound would be easily tuneable with EQ.

For under £50 you won’t find this level of detail, clarity or separation from another in-ear headphone. Add to that brilliant build quality and you have a winner.

Best In-Ear Headphones Under £150

Oriveti Basic

Looking for a more bass oriented in-ear headphone with an upfront and engaging sound, yet without losing out on the finer details and comfort, you need the Oriveti Basic.

A 10mm titanium coated driver supplies an impressive amount of bass. Now I am not much of a bass head but after listening to these for a while I found myself really enjoying them.

They’re not audiophile and they won’t give you a reference sound but if you like your earphones to be fun and enjoyable with plenty of punch then these could be for you. The isolation and comfort is also really impressive and along with replaceable cables they are a great buy!

Oriveti are new on the scene and they certainly know how to make an entrance. The new Oriveti Basic earphone packs a punch and gives you plenty of features for its modest price tag.

READ MORE: Oriveti Basic Full Review

Westone UM Pro10

Looking for a in-ear headphone with quick snappy transients, whilst retaining a well balanced sound signature? Take a look at the New Westone UM Pro10, revised in 2017 to be even better and more comfortable.

Predictably, the balanced armature makes short work of replicating higher frequencies accurately, but the real interest is at the low end where single BA IEMs are concerned. Provided a decent seal can be achieved, the bass is in good balance with the rest of the presentation, although bassheads will be wanting more.

If you fancy the idea of a single balanced armature earphone, but don’t fancy the protruding capsules of the Etymotic designs then the UM Pro 10 is worth a close look. Sometimes the best designs are the simplest and I really think there is something to be said for single-driver IEMs. Makers may be able to tune the sound signature a little more with multiple drivers, but this risks muddying the sound with possible phase/imaging issues as the audio from these different drivers reaches our ears at different times.

In short – choose the simple life and get the UM Pro 10!

Best In-Ear Headphones Under £300

Oriveti New Primacy

One of our best sellers, the New Primacy has a well balanced sound signature with class leading separation and clarity.

The Oriveti New Primacy has a bit of a mid forward sound signature, with excellent clarity and air throughout the range, the bass digs deep and is very articulate, the mids have a habit of bringing out all the detail in recordings but not in an unpleasant way. The highs are airy and well extended, without fatiguing properties, overall a very comfortable and enjoyable listen. The New primacy manages to be a very coherent sounding hybrid design, with a very well textured and layered sound.

READ MORE: Oriveti New Primacy Full Review

Best In-Ear Headphones Under £600

Dunu DK-3001

Our top pick for under £500 is the Dunu DK-3001, with impressive technical capabilities that are really enjoyable to listen to as well. Punchy and clear sound with a wide soundstage, these are truly excellent.

The Dunu DK-3001 is a very well done hybrid IEM, the bass is dynamic and punchy, with excellent and realistic body. The midrange is well layered and very detailed, with a hint of smoothness to it. The highs are always present, yet not fatiguing. These work well with all genres, the bass is fun and energetic in EDM, and rock comes across with detail and layering. Jazz has a very natural tone, and they just take all genres in their stride, however their ability to control heavy metal is truly impressive.

READ MORE: Dunu DK-3001 Full Review

Audeze iSINE 20

If you don’t mind the open back design, the Audeze iSine20 will offer a listening experience more like a full size headphone than an in-ear model.

Offering an open sound with excellent punch the iSine20 offers a relaxing listening experience with slightly polite treble. Keeping in tone with their house sound the iSine20 offers good bass quantity with non-fatiguing treble and a natural tone. This is a very unique IEM that is well worth looking into if you want a more traditional headphone sound. The sound is slightly v-shaped; it’s a warmish, ‘fun’ tuning yet still retains excellent detail retrieval.

Best In-Ear Headphones Price No Object

Westone W80

The W80 are an incredible performer, with a very detailed, spacious yet smooth sound plus an added Alo Audio cable you are sure to be impressed. Fitting 8 BA drivers into this tiny housing is no easy task, yet Westone have done it without sacrificing anything at all.

Some of the most comfortable IEM’s available; the Westone W80 is a pleasure to use for long periods of time, especially with their non fatiguing sound. The bass has body and impact adding a little warmth to the overall sound, the midrange is smooth and non fatiguing, yet the finer details still shine thought. The treble is slightly relaxed but still retains a certain level of sparkle and extension; they are not analytical but still extract the finer details with ease. A very well balanced IEM, that is comfortable and easy to listen to.

Final FI-BA-SST35

The FI-BA-SST35 is one for the detail lovers, being very unforgiving of the source material you will want to listen to well recorded music to get the most out of these.

Final are kings at squeezing the most out of one single BA driver, and the FI-BA-SST35 is no different. Using their proprietary BAM design they move more air, and dig deeper than most conventional single BA driver designs. The bass is always well controlled but offers good impact and articulation without becoming overwhelming or adding much body to the overall sound. The midrange changes depending on the track you are listening to, yet is always very detailed and very transparent. The treble is not fatiguing yet offers incredible insight into the recording, again play well recorded tracks and you will be rewarded with great sound. The soundstage and separation are both excellent, and the timbre is very good for a single BA driver.

Indulgence Show 2017 – London

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Indulgence Show 2017 – London

Hifiheadphones will be at the Indulgence show in London later on this month, so here is some info about the show:

Where?

Hammersmith Novotel London West

When?

29 Sept-1 Oct (10am-6pm on Friday and Saturday, 10am-5pm on Sunday)

Effect Audio

We will be showing off the range of luxury handmade upgrade cables from Effect Audio which are sure to turn some heads.

Starting at £149 and going up to over £1000, there are cables to suit all tastes and headphones. Come by and hear the difference yourself!

Final

Alongside them will be the latest offerings from Final, including a prototype of their D8000 planar magnetic headphone.

Since 1974, Final have been producing hi-fi equipment that reflects a musician’s passion for art, as well as their own passion for engineering. Truly unique, Final’s headphones combine sleek retro styling and ground-breaking technology.

Oriveti

We will also be taking along the superb Oriveti New Primacy triple hybrid in-ear headphones, and their Basic model too.
The New Primacy sets a new standard for sub £300 headphones, offering excellent value for money with a highly resolving and detailed sound.
The Basic is a fun everyday in-ear headphone that is superbly built and costs under £100.

Grado SR80e Headphone Review

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Grado SR80e Open Back Headphone Review

The Grado SR80e are a definite improvement over the SR80i, with a slightly warmer, more balanced sound. Their retro styling may not appeal to all, but underneath the looks is a fine sounding open-back headphone. The undisputed king of headphones for rock music, these are sure to get you toe tapping and head banging in no time.

Pros:

  • Clean sound
  • Well balanced
  • Exciting

Cons:

  • Bass will not satisfy all
  • Comfort can be an issue for some

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The Grado SR80e do not stray far from the classic low end Grado style, with very retro looks that are a love or hate affair. I think there is something quite pleasing about the design; it is wonderfully simple yet stylish and functional. All black with silver lettering, they don’t stand out with colours, but they do with their unique styling.

The build quality is nothing spectacular but you can change nearly every part on it, with an extensive community dedicated to modifying them. The cups are plastic but well put together, the headband is a vinyl covered metal band; the sliders are metal rods in rod blocks. The cable is dual sided, and feels quite substantial, it is rubbery under the y-split and quite thick, above the y-split they are prone to twisting and kinking a little. The construction is so simple, yet it works and they last for years, the foam pads will need replacing from time to time, but apart from that you can expect many years of service from a pair of Grado.

Accessory wise you get a a 3.5mm to 6.3mm jack adaptor, that is it. I know some models now come with the genuine Grado hard carry case which is a nice little added extra.

Comfort and Usage

The comfort of Grados has been talked about a lot, and as with the styling, it is a love or hate affair. I personally don’t find them uncomfortable; the earpads do need some time to settle in as they are a little stiff out of the box. The headphones are very light, they clamp a little tightly but the headband can be stretched to alleviate this. The weight of the headphones and the way they sit means they don’t really create a hot spot on the top of your head easily, even if they do lack proper headband padding. Some people do not find on-ear headphones very comfy, as for pads, the stock are very comfy but the L cush from Grado are even better if you want an upgrade.

The SR80e are an open back, on-ear headphone so they will not isolate from outside noise, also this means they leak sound. This means that using them around other people can cause annoyance, so please be considerate. There are benefits of an open-back headphone for out and about usage, you stay aware of your surroundings.
These headphones are perfect for home listening too; especially with the recent vinyl boom these play wonderfully with a good vinyl setup.

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READ MORE: Effect Audio Thor Silver II Cable Review

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Sound

Contrary to the belief that open headphone have a wide soundstage, Grado have a very unique sound for an open back design, being airy but very intimate, engaging and slightly aggressive.

  • Bass

These are not for the bass heads of the world; these are for those that appreciate the quality over quantity. The Grado of old used to be considered a little bass light, yet the new E series has more articulate and present bass response. It is far from being overwhelming but it is tight and fast, yet at the same time incredibly articulate. Bass guitar lines are so easy to follow, kick drums hit with authority and the PRAT (Pace, Rhythm and Timing) is class leading at this price. The bass fills out the sound keeping it exciting, yet they are so controlled, never encroaching on the rest of the frequency range.

  • Midrange

The SR80e has such a clean midrange; this is partly due to the incredibly well controlled bass. The midrange has no big dips or peaks; it is relatively well balanced handling male and female both with ease. Distorted guitars in rock music have power and authority, and the air and layering in softer acoustic and slower rock is excellent.

  • Treble

These is a bit of a peak in the treble but it does not induce fatigue or harshness, the old SR80 was slightly leaner sounding which lead them to be a little more fatiguing. The treble has been toned down a little over the ears, and they have become a more balanced sounding headphone. The peak brings out energy and sparkle in the initial cymbal crash in music, making them really engaging and not lacking up top at all. The treble is still refined though, and does not sound strained or forced.

As stated before the SR80e has an airy sound with excellent separation, however the soundstage is very small and intimate sounding.

Conclusion

The SR80e is a real step forward for Grado, toning down the highs a little, adding a little extra bass presence has made these less fatiguing and more balanced sounding. These will not appeal to bass heads, they fair better with music that is played on real instruments. They have long been favourites for people that enjoy rock music due to the speed and control of the sound. At the price point I still think Grado hold their own with a well balanced, aggressive and detailed sound, there is nothing quite like them.

Modifying

Now there is a whole community dedicated to modifying Grados, which can improve their sound for very little money sometimes. Please be aware that modifying them will void your warranty, but the benefits can be great. For under £200 you could have a set of wood cupped Grados that will sound nearly as good as their higher end models, and will be unique to you.
Here is an excellent thread dedicated to this:

https://www.head-fi.org/threads/post-your-grado-mods.119314/

And also great places to get custom parts:

And I personally have a pair of SR60e which I replaced the cups and put dynamat on the back of the driver, along with getting some L cush pads and changing the cable. They are incredibly light and comfortable for long listening and the sound is just really fun. What I personally really like about the Grados is their way of allowing you to enjoy the music rather than try and pick flaws in it.

Effect Audio Thor Silver II Cable Review

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Effect Audio Thor Silver II Replacement Cable Review

The Effect Audio Thor Silver II will inject a little extra space and sparkle into your IEM’s without taking away the qualities you love.

Pros:

  • Increased clarity
  • Increased soundstage
  • Slightly more sparkle
  • Smooth

Cons:

  • None if you know what you want

Aesthetics and Build Quality

Buying an upgrade cable is a decision based on many things, and one of those is cosmetic reasons. The Thor Silver II is a pure silver headphone cable that looks fantastic, the braid is even and tight and the carbon fibre plugs and splitter look great.

The build quality of the Thor Silver II is the same as all Effect audio cables, impeccable. The braid is even with no faults, the jack plug feels sturdy as does the y-split. All in all the Thor Silver II is well built and should last a long time with some care.

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READ MORE: Focal Elear Audiophile Headphone Review

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Ergonomics

I don’t quite know what kind of insulation Effect audio use, but it is soft and supple. Their cables are very ergonomic with no hard memory wire, instead a soft moulded piece of heat-shrink. The cable is very comfortable in use with no cable noise to be heard.

Sound

What I like about the Thor Silver II is that is it not what you think it will sound like. It is not your typical bright sounding, hyper detailed and aggressive silver cable. Instead it retains the coherent and full bodied lows of your IEM’s with excellent impact but with slightly better speed, recovery and control.

The midrange gains some air around the notes, making things easier to separate. The highs do have a certain amount of extra presence and sparkle however I never found them to come across bright or shrill. Cymbal crashes shimmer with more detail and real tone to them, with more effortless extension.

There is more air around notes, and the soundstage is a little wider with better separation and layering whilst still sounding coherent and natural.

Cables are a much debated topic in the audio industry, I am a believer in small changes between cables and that synergy is king. The Thor Silver II adds a little extra sparkle up top without sounding harsh or ruining the dynamics of your headphones of choice. The lows are still articulate just a bit better controlled, the midrange clearer and highs more realistic. If you feel your IEM’s could do with a bit better separation, control and a bit of a treble lift whilst still retaining a smooth sound, the Thor Silver II is well worth looking in to.

Shanling M1 Portable Audio Player Review

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Shanling M1 DAP Review

The Shanling M1 is the perfect everyday DAP, also doubling up as the perfect gym companion, offering a clean and detailed sound for under £150, very impressive.

Pros:

  • Size
  • Features
  • Price to performance

Cons:

  • Button layout could be more like the M2s

Aesthetics, Accessories and User Interface

The Shanling M1 is a tiny player, it is shaped like the later iPod Nano and is sleek and easily slips into your pocket. The front is glass, the edges are aluminium and the back is plastic, you have a volume wheel (which is also the select button) on the top right hand side and the power button underneath. On the other side you have playback buttons (skip track and back), on the bottom you have the USB C port for charging and also file transfer along with the headphone jack and MicroSD slot. The power button also works to unlock the screen, overall the look and feel of this player is excellent.

The M1 comes with a USB cable, Card reader and 4 screen protectors, all you need is a microSD card with music on. Available separately is a leather case, and you can also purchase extra screen protectors.

The user interface is easy to get around, you have plenty of settings and then when in your music you can either browse by Artist, Album, Genre, Playlist, Favourites or display all tracks. The wheel acts as the scrolling mechanism, and click inwards on the wheel to select. The playing screen displays the album artwork, with the format below and the track name and artist. The button layout is not as intuitive and natural as the M2s, but it doesn’t take long to get used to it.

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READ MORE: Thomson WHP3311 Wireless TV Headphone Review

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This player has some added functions, it can be used as an external USB DAC for your computer.
The USB C port can feed a digital signal to an external DAC too, it has high and low gain settings, EQ, two way Bluetooth (AptX) support and more.

Sound

I would class the Shanling M1 as one of the more neutral sounding players, it’s sibling the M2s has a noticeable warmth to the sound that the M1 doesn’t have. The M1 has plenty of gain, but the actual output power is lower than the M2s, meaning the M1 is best paired with in-ear headphones and easier to drive full size ones.

There is still a slight smoothness to the sound, which makes this an easy listen. The lows are slightly full and easy to follow, they are not lacking in extension are definition but they are slightly fuller than a strictly neutral sound.
The mids are detailed and present, and the highs are well extended with possibly a hint of softness making this a non fatiguing and easy listening player.

Conclusion

The M1 is the perfect player for everyday easy listening and also for sports use. It’s size and aftermarket case allow you to clip it to an armband, and the bluetooth support allows you to go wireless when out jogging.

It has some great features like USB DAC support, USB output support, Bluetooth and more, it may not be the most powerful player but for under £150 you get a surprisingly clean and detailed sound.

Optoma NuForce uDAC5 Review

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NuForce uDAC5 Mobile DAC/Amp Review

The Optoma Nuforce uDAC5 is an excellent little DAC/Amp that cannot be beaten in size or sound for the price. It is a solid unit with a slightly smooth sound that is sure to please.

Pros:

  • Size
  • Build
  • Sound

Cons:

  • None for the price

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The Nuforce uDAC5 is a tiny little thing, that looks great with a clean metal housing and good sized volume knob. The casing is all metal with a LED light on the front indicating it is on, along with the volume knob and headphone socket, inputs and outputs on the back and that is it.

Built quality is excellent, with the all metal case and solid sockets this little thing is built to survive. The volume pot moves smoothly and everthing feels well put together, the finish of the case is impeccable.

Accessories are not really included, all you get is the DAC, USB cable and quick start guide. I would have like to have seen some rubber feet included, maybe a pair of RCA cables too. But most people already have interconnects so not a huge issue.

Ease of use and Features

The uDAC5 is simple and easy to use, with the latest Windows 10 update, it is plug and play with no need to install drivers. Otherwise the drivers are available from the Nuforce website, I had no issues getting the DAC to work and it just started playing music instantly.

The RCA outputs are controlled by the volume pot, and not a fixed line out. This means you can use this with active monitors, but if you are going into an external amp set the volume to 100%.

It can also be used to convert USB signal to a coaxial for use with an external DAC that has no USB input.

Sound Quality

First off I will say the headphone output has fairly high gain and can drive the Beyerdynamic DT990 600 Ohm with ease, it also worked well with less sensitive IEM’s but won’t be the best match with very sensitive IEM’s unless you lower the volume in windows.

Out of the headphone output the uDAC5 has excellent sound throughout the range, it is not bright and clinical yet still brings out the detail in music. It is a big step up from on board audio out of a PC/Laptop, the sound is sightly warm and euphoric with good separation. I do find the internal amp to be fine for casual listening with easy to drive headphones, but you will notice a difference when going to a full size desktop amp with harder to drive headphones.

Everything is well placed in the mix, the lows hit hard and dig deep, vocals have a sweetness to them that is quite pleasing and highs have good definition and extension, lacking only the micro detail and air that higher end equipment offers.

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READ MORE: Grado SR80e Audiophile Headphone Review

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As a pure DAC the uDAC5 is clean and clear without any real flaws, it works really well in any system providing a big step up from on-board audio. I feel there is still a slight smoothness to the overall sound which does get rid of any potential harshness but can slightly hide some micro detail.

Conclusion

For the price the Nuforce uDAC5 is an excellent piece of kit, it would be perfect for a coffee shop setup, or a small office rig, it is also perfect as a DAC for active desktop monitors and to feed an external amp at home.

It is not for driving really demanding headphones to their full potential, it is for casual listening and getting better sound out of a PC on a budget, and for this purpose it is a no brainer.

Edifier H850 Headphone Review

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Edifier H850 Closed Back Headphone Review

The Edifier H850 Headphones offer excellent sound quality for the modest price of £39.99, offering a clean and clear, well balanced sound.

Pros:

  • Build quality
  • Balanced sound

Cons:

  • Not the most natural timbre
  • Lacks some high end refinement

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The Edifier H850 are a fairly standard looking headphone, nothing stands out with a mainly matt black design and brushed aluminium faceplates. The H850 won’t win any beauty competitions, but they look stylish for a headphone at this price.

The build quality is perfectly acceptable for the price, with plastic cups, metal reinforced headband and metal faceplates. The cups swivel flat, the earpads are replaceable and a big plus point is the cable is user replaceable with a standard 3.5mm jack (however the stock one has a locking mechanism).

The H850 accessories are kept to a minimum, only a 6.3mm jack adaptor is supplied as extra, however this means that costs are kept to a minimum, leaving you with better sound quality for the price over luxurious accessories.

Comfort and Isolation

The Edifier H850 are very light, but the cups are not the most spacious, however I find them to be comfortable for long periods of time. The headband is well padded and again the weight comes into play here not creating a hot spot on the top of your head.

Isolation is good, this is a closed back headphone but there are vents in the cups that do leak a minimal amount of sound. If you listen at moderate volumes you are unlikely to bother people around you.

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READ MORE: Shanling H1 Portable Headphone Amplifier Review

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Sound Quality

  • Bass

The bass on the H850 is surprisingly punchy and well in line with the rest of the frequency range. It is articulate and well layered, bass guitar lines are easy to follow. They do roll off around 50hz, and there is a bit of a mid bass hump but, overall the bass is well controlled and does not shadow the rest of the frequency range. The lows are quick in attack and recovery making them handle heavy rock music very well, yet they can still offer some body in acoustic and electronic tracks.

  • Mids

The midrange is quite clean and clear, there is a slight dip in the lower mids making male vocals not as prominent as female vocals. However they do not suffer from bleed from the lows, being well separated. Finer details are not the H850’s strong point, but they are well balanced and there is good space and air. For the price the midrange is very good, there is a slight peak in the upper midrange which does highlight some sibilance in certain recordings. Electric guitars fair well with good energy and crunch when called for, and acoustic guitars come across with good body but perhaps a little cold in tonality.

  • Highs

The highs are well presented but do lack extension and air, I find them to roll off too early and lack refinement. They are a bit one toned with lack of distinct definition, but then again they are present and at this price point I don’t think any headphone can match these in the treble range. The highs do have good placement and directionality being able to pinpoint where they are coming from in the recording.

  • Separation and Soundstage

The instrument separation is good on these, during faster tracks they do have a tendency to become a little congested but for the most part everything is well separated and easy to pick out in the recording.
The soundstage is not huge, it is just outside the headphones in terms of width, so they won’t be the best for large orchestral pieces.

Conclusion

Now for the price, the Edifier H850 is possibly best in class, most headphones around this range have boosted bass, or non-existent highs, these do not. These actually have good balance across the board, yes they won’t have the natural tone of high end models, or the effortless high end extension, but they do offer a very pleasant listening experience for an excellent price.

DUNU DK-3001 Hybrid Quad Driver Earphone Review – Hybrid Theory

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DUNU DK-3001 Hybrid Quad Driver IEM Review

The Dunu DK-3001 is a detailed and well balanced IEM, lending it’s hand to all genres and never becoming congested or peaky. A technical achiever that is also a lot of fun to listen to.

Pros:

  • Overall balanced and detailed sound
  • Layering
  • Soundstage

Cons:

  • Ergonomics
  • Treble may be borderline bright to some

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The Dunu DK-3001 are an interesting looking IEM, and very difficult to describe so it’s best to look at the pictures. The stainless housing is low key in black, with Dunu laser etched onto the outside.

The DK-3001 feel very well built, the stainless housing feels tough, the cables have very good strain relief and these use standard MMCX connectors so changing cables out is easy. I cannot find fault with the build, althought the MMCX connectors are extemly tight when first out of the box.

Accessory wise, if you have bought Dunu before, you know they include a ton of extras, these are no exception. They come with a hard plastic case, cable clip, flight adaptor, 3.5mm to 6.3mm adaptor, 2.5mm TRRS balanced spare cable, a pair of Comply foam tips in M, Spinfit tips in SS, S, M and L, and two different types of silicone tips in S, M and L.

Everything you need to get a good fit, and having a balanced cable is a big plus in my opinion, there is nothing missing with these.

Comfort, Isolation and Cable Noise

Well the housing of the DK-3001 is subject to some comfort issues, as they are not the most ergonomic IEMs out there. However I did find these to be more comfortable than the Dunu DN-2002. There are some sharp edges on the housing that can cause some discomfort over prolonged periods of time for some people, but once I got a good fit I found them to be quite comfortable. On a personal note I dislike memory wire, so getting a good upgrade cable could be useful for some.

Isolation is fairly average as these are vented, they don’t block out much outside noise so are not the best for very noisy environments, but general commuting and use will be fine.

Cable noise is not an issue with these.

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READ MORE: MrSpeakers Aeon Audiophile Headphone Review

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Sound

  • Bass

The bass on these is dynamic and full, it is quick and nimble when needed yet comes out in full when called for. Bass guitar lines are superbly controlled and easy to follow, kick drums hit with punch and authority, but all in line with the rest of the sound. The bass is not dominating in any way, it is well behaved but extremely articulate and well layered. They extend right down into the sub-bass with ease, acoustic guitars have very real body and the bass never gets in the way of the mids.

  • Midrange

The midrange is well detailed, the bass does not create additional warmth which allows the midrange to shine. I find the midrange to be quite smooth without huge peaks or dips, these is however slightly more presence in the upper mids. The don’t however suffer from sibilance in the upper mids, and what is excellent is the amount of fine detail that can be extracted from the mids.

  • Treble

The treble is crisp and clear, it has some added sparkle and presence and could be borderline bright for treble sensitive people. I find them to have excellent definition, extension and presence. The treble is not laid back, it is there allowing you to hear and distinguish every cymbal tap.

  • Soundstage

The soundstage is quite wide and airy, these is plenty of space between instruments and the soundstage is accurate and not artificial sounding. Instrument separation is excellent, with everything being easy to pick out, even in fast and technical tracks.

Conclusion

The Dunu DK-3001 is a very well done hybrid IEM, the bass is dynamic and punchy, with excellent and realistic body. The midrange is well layered and very detailed, with and hint of smoothness to it. The highs are always present, yet not fatiguing. These work well with all genres, the bass is fun and energetic in EDM, and rock comes across with detail and layering. Jazz has a very natural tone, and they just take all genres in their stride, however their ability to control heavy metal is truly impressive.

Dita Dream Earphone Review

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Dita Audio Dream IEM Review

The Dita Dream are a dream to listen to with well recorded lossless files, transparent and effortless, with an excellent soundstage to boot, a true TOTL IEM.

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The Dita dream come in a very high quality white card box, lift off the top and the Dita Dream are held in a velvet coated foam insert. Lift this up and you will find another compartment with the accessories underneath.
The Dream themselves are metal bodied, matte black IEM’s which look great and feel like the premium product they are. The cable is very well built and comes with the Awesome plug, and interchangeable plug system that really is nifty. The overall look and feel of these is excellent and they ooze quality as well as being rather understated.

The build quality of the Dita Dream is superb, the metal housing is sturdy yet relatively lightweight, the cable is thick and detachable, the Awesome plug is a system that allows you to change the plug from 3.5mm single ended to 2.5mm balanced, or many others that you can purchase separately. There is good strain relief throughout, and I see not issues arising from the build quality.

Accessory wise you get a very nice leather pouch to store them in, and a plethora of tips. You get S, M and L in 3 types of silicone tips, one is wide bore soft stem, one is wide bore stiffer stem, and the last one has a blue stem and slightly stiffer outer silicone. Also included is a flight adaptor, so you get everything you need to get started.

Comfort, Isolation, Cable Noise and Driver Flex

The Dita Dream are a dream to wear, the shape of the housing is perfect and fits my small ears well, the angle of the nozzle means they don’t protrude at and odd angle and you can achieve quite a deep fit with them. The cable to begin with is a little unruly and stiff, but I am sure it will soften up with some use.

Isolation is very good, blocking out a large amount of outside noise, they are vented but this doesn’t seem to affect the isolation much.

Cable noise is minimal as it is routed behind your ear.

Driver flex is present upon initial insertion, but is not a big problem.

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READ MORE: Final E3000 & E2000 Earphone Review

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Sound Quality

  • Bass

The bass is incredibly punchy and the sub-bass response is truly impressive, extending right down into the sub-bass without any early roll-off. Listen to some rock and you can feel the kick drums, listen to some EDM and the lows are equally as happy being full and vibrant, yet never sounding out of control. I have not heard rumble like this, from any other IEM, yet it isn’t over the top, the rumble only comes out when called for. The lows also do a good job at staying separate from the lower mids, not warming them up. I will also add the the layering and resolution down low is excellent.

  • Mids

The midrange is delicate, and wonderfully detailed, you can really pick apart the recording with these, hearing every nuance. The midrange is very clean, having the tendency to be a little more on the analytical side. Here you can hear every pick of a guitar string, every breath a singer takes, very insightful but not fatiguing. There is no sibilance up top either, and during harmonies you can clearly tell where each singer is positioned.

  • Treble

Not lacking in any way up top yet also not fatiguing, the highs are as good as the recording allows them to be. With well recorded music you will be presented with effortlessly extended highs that have excellent transparency and also air. Never fading to the back even during faster tracks, you can always hear the energy and detail up top.

Soundstage

The soundstage is both deep and wide, with excellent imaging and they give you a real sense of the space in ambient and live recordings.

Conclusion

The Dita Dream are a fun sounding IEM where everything is on a level playing field, nothing sticks out and nothing is missing. They are incredibly detailed, yet not analytical, however they do allow great insight into the recording should you want to analyse it. The space and air around each instrument is a highlight, and the transparency means you will definitely want to listen to better recorded lossless files on these. These have dynamics that mulitple BA designs cannot hope to match, they are a true TOTL dynamic driver IEM.

Oriveti New Primacy Earphone Review

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Oriveti New Primacy IEM Review

The Oriveti New Primacy are a slightly mid forward sounding in-ear headphone, with excellent air, detail retrieval and layering, a must listen at this price range.

Pros:

  • Clarity
  • Control
  • Detail retrieval

Cons:

  • Highs could be a little more refined

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The Oriveti New Primacy are a beautiful in-ear headphone, with seductive curves and a smooth finish. With a simple logo on each earpiece, they are understated, and the braided cable adds to the quality feel.

The build quality is top notch, the New Primacy housing is metal and very well finished, the cable is a 8 core braided cable with MMCX connectors. The MMCX connectors are tight and do not detach easily, or cut out, the jack is right angled with excellent traind relief and the y-split is a small piece of heatshrink. There is a chin slider, but there is lack of strain relief where the cable goes into the MMCX connector. Overall a very well built headphone that should last a long time.

Accessory wise these do not disappoint, they come with a multitude of tips 2 pairs of each silicon tip (S,M,L), 2 pairs of bi-flange tips, along with 2 pairs of medium foam tips, you also get a sleek metal carry case, flight adaptor, 3.5 to 6.3mm adaptor and a pair of earhooks. An excellent amount of accessories, to ensure everyone will be able to get a good fit.

Comfort, Isolation, Cable Noise and Driver Flex

The New Primacy are extremely comfortable due to their smooth shape and ease of insertion. The cable is soft and flexible and you really don’t feel them once inserted properly.

Isolation is good, they managed to block out a lot of outside noise effectivey and would be perfect for the daily commute.

Cable noise is not an issue with these, however there is a slight bit of driver flex upon insertion.

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READ MORE: Dunu DN-2002 Hybrid Quad Driver IEM Review

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Sound Quality

  • Bass

The bass on these will not overpower the rest of the sound, but they will create a solid foundation for the whole sound. They are full bodied, yet tight and impactful when called for, with excellent extension. They won’t satisfy bassheads, but for most there will be enough presence to keep things fun without excess. The dyanmic driver really gives these an articulate and well balanced low end, that can keep up with heavy rock, yet also the full body of acoustic recordings. I find there is a bit of mid-bass bloom, but this only adds a little extra body and does not affect the lower midrange.

  • Mids

The midrange is detailed and linear, nothing stands out apart from the excellent clarity and air. Both male and female vocals sound exceptional with very good detail retrieval, only the slightest hint of sibilance. Tonally they are good but maybe a litte dry for some tastes, not sounding as warm and euphoric as some out there.

  • Highs

The highs have good air and extension, and they are well presented in the mix. The great thing about the highs on these is the lack of peakiness, meaning whilst they are always present they are never fatiguing. They are sparkly and have good detail and resolution with great layering, overall very good treble indeed.

  • Soundstage

The soundstage is fairly intimate, with slightly forward mids, the instrument separation is very good with an airy presentation though.

Conclusion

The Oriveti New Primacy has a bit of a mid forward sound signature, with excellent clarity and air throughout the range, the bass digs deep and is very articulate, the mids have a habit of bringing out all the detail in recordings but not in an unpleasant way. The highs are airy and well extended, without fatiguing properties, overall a very comfortable and enjoyable listen. The New primacy manages to be a very coherent sounding hybrid design, with a very well textured an layered sound.

Shanling M2s Digital Audio Player Review

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Shanling M2s DAP Review

The Shanling M2s is a highly capable, small footprint, high resolution DAP that is feature packed and has superb sonic abilities, do not look further for a sub £200 player.

Pros:

  • Excellent value for money
  • Feature packed
  • Power

Cons:

  • 4.8 Ohm output impedance

Aesthetics, Accessories and User Interface

The Shanling M2s is a great looking player, it is small, sleek and easily slips into your pocket. The front is glass, the edges are aluminium and the back is plastic, you have a volume wheel on the side, a back button underneath. On the other side you have playback buttons (skip track and play/pause) and the MicroSD card slot, on the bottom you have the USB C port for charging and also file transfer, and the headphone jack next to it. The power button on the top also works to unlock the screen, overall the look and feel of this player is excellent.

The M2s comes with a USB cable, Card ready and 4 screen protectors, all you need is a microSD card with music on. Available separately is a leather case, and you can also purchase extra screen protectors.

The user interface is easy to get around, you have plenty of settings and then when in your music you can either browse by Artist, Album, Genre, Playlist, Favourites or display all tracks. The wheel acts as the scrolling mechanism, and click inwards on the wheel to select. The playing screen displays the album artwork, with the format below and the track name and artist.

This player has some added functions, you can set the headphone out as a line-out for use with a hifi system for example, or portable amp. And also it can be used as an external USB DAC for your computer.
The USB C port can feed a digital signal to an external DAC too, it has high and low gain settings, EQ, Bluetooth (AptX) and more. All this for under £200, but none of that matters if it doesn’t sound good.

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READ MORE: SoundMAGIC ST80 Bluetooth Earphone Review

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Sound

The Shanling M2s does not disappoint in the sound department, you would have thought with all those features they may have forgotten about the sound. But they have not, the M2s comes across as a very clean and balanced player, with plenty of power and authority. There is no part of the sound that stands out in particular, it just gets out of the way and lets you enjoy your music.
From sensitive in-ear monitors, to full size headphones, this player can handle most easy to medium hard to drive headphones with ease.

Ok so what’s the catch? Well more expensive players do have the upper hand in build quality and features most of the time (This has lots, but no balanced output). But also high end players are more resolving of the finer detail in music.

Now for on the go use, the extra detail from high end players is not needed, and the M2s is truly excellent for the price, it is balanced with maybe a hint of warmth to the sound, never fatiguing but also not altering the sound of your headphones to a huge extent. It has good dynamics, but a slightly limited soundstage, this is nitpicking however.

Conclusion

The M2s is a perfect partner for your daily commute, or exercise routine, it is also the perfect transport for the audiophiles out there. Hook it up to an external DAC and you have an excellent rig. But on it’s own it really doesn’t disappoint with a clear, balanced if not slightly smooth sound that works with all sorts of headphones.

DUNU DN-2002 Quad Hybrid Driver Earphone Review

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DUNU DN-2002 Earphone Review

With the DUNU DN-2002, they have made a very coherent sounding IEM, that impresses with its clarity, natural tone and larger than normal soundstage.

Pros:

  • Resolution
  • Extension on both ends

Cons

  • Comfort (size and weight)
  • Cable is not easy to remove

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The DN-2002 are and odd looking IEM, it is easier to see in the pictures than to describe them. They don’t look bad, but they are quite big as they have managed to get 2 dynamic drivers, and 2 balanced armatures into them.

Build quality is excellent as with the rest of the Dunu line, the housing is metal, the cable is detachable and feels well built with good strain relief. These will last a long time.

Accessories again are plentiful, Dunu are well known for including a wide array of accessories and these are no exception. You get some ear-hooks that should help them stay in your ear and relieve some of the weight, you get a pack of various Spinfit tips, a pack or regular silicone tips, and a pair of Comply tips. Also included is a jack adaptor and a cable clip, all the accessories are held in a neat hard plastic case.

Comfort and Isolation

The DUNU DN-2002 are metal and heavy with all those drivers inside, I personally have small ears and they are not the best fitting for me. They stick out quite far and do not have the most secure fit. If you have slightly larger ears I can see these fitting fine, but once I have a good seal they fit fine.
They can be worn with the cable straight down, or over the ear.

Isolation is perfectly fine for on the go use, but do not block out as much as fully sealed models.

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READ MORE: Pioneer Monitor5 Closed Back Headphone Review

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Sound

  • Bass

The bass on the DN-2002 is well placed with effortless extension right down to the sub-bass. The dynamic drivers are working well here giving the sound a natural tone. What I like with these is that they don’t suffer from a mid bass hump, the bass is linear and the sub-bass response is very impressive.

  • Mids

The DUNU DN-2002 has crystal clear mids with no bleed from the bass, they are very transparent and true to the source. Another thing that stands out in the mids is the separation and layering, you can easily pick apart the recording and hear all the details.

  • Treble

The treble is smooth with great extension, these never become bright or strident but the detail is there. No real issues with the treble, it is present and very well controlled and detailed without grain or splashiness.

  • Soundstage

One of the standout features of the DN-2002, it is very wide and expansive with excellent placement and air around each instrument. The separation and imaging is all so precise.

Conclusion

The DUNU DN-2002 offer a very coherent sound, everything is there and well balanced. They are not neutral, but natural and balanced sounding. The extension on both ends, and the expansive soundstage are what will grab you first, but listen closer and the resolution of the sound will impress too. Now if only they were a little smaller.

Meze 99 Neo Headphone Review

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Meze 99 Neo Headphone Review

The Meze 99 Neo are an aesthetically pleasing, warm sounding, easy listening headphone suitable for kicking back and enjoying rather than analysing.

Pros:

  • Looks
  • Build quality
  • Smooth sound

Cons:

  • Bass is not the tightest
  • Not the widest soundstage

Aesthetics, Build quality and Accessories

The Meze 99 Neo have a vintage look about them, with silver accents and black cups the colours compliment each other perfectly. There is nothing overly remarkable about the appearance of these headphones, but they do look very sleek and stylish.

They are well built, the cups are plastic the headband is solid metal, the cable and earpads are replaceable, all in all a very well built headphone.

The Meze 99 Neo comes with a great range of accessories, you get a hardcase to transport them in, a 1.2m cable with microphone and a regular 3m cable and a jack adaptor, a great array of accessories and all that is needed.

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READ MORE: Pioneer SE-MS7BT Bluetooth Headphone Review

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Comfort and Isolation

These headphones are very comfortable, the earpads encapsulate your ears nicely, and are deep enough so that your ear does not touch the driver. I am a big fan of the headband pad as it is elasticated and conforms to the shape of you head better than most headphones out there.
These are closed back, and use pleather pads so your ears will heat up over long listening sessions, but overall they are a very comfortable headphone.

Isolation is fine for general home, office and most portable use, but they are not the best for very noisy environments.

Sound quality

  • Bass

The bass on these is very full, almost too full sometimes, but manages to keep controlled and not affect the mids too much. The bass manages to dig deep with excellent rumble when called for, the punch is backed up with good body but is not the fastest and struggles to keep up with heavy rock music.

  • Mids

Male vocals sit a little farther behind in the mix, due to the full nature of the lows, whereas female vocals come across a little more forward and cleaner. Separation and placement is well done, and the tonality is good, and there is no harshness at all in the mids.

  • Treble

Laid back is how I would describe the treble on these, the treble is well detailed and present, but not in huge quantities.

  • Soundstage and Separation

The soundstage is not huge, they offer quite an intimate presentation but the separation is very good, and layering is very well done.

Conclusion

The Meze 99 Neo are a relaxed sounding headphone, they are easy to sit back and listen to, the bass sounds a little uncontrolled during certain tracks, but they offer great build quality, looks and good sound quality for the price.