Audeze keeps going from strength to strength (the strength of our bank managers, that is). Ever more glitzy offerings are produced which are sure to exceed the last model at least in terms of price, but does the performance match up? We’re sure the folks at Audeze HQ realise that expectations go up along with the levels of cash we’re asked to part with, so they’d better have the trousers to go along with the proverbial mouth they’re exhibiting..
Pros:
Sturdy construction
Great looks
Smooth sound for those who want it
Sub bass is impressive
Cons:
Single-ended cable only
Heavy!
Some may require greater treble presence
Durability and Build Quality
The LCD-4z is built to last, with an all-metal construction. It’s weighty, coming in at 610 grams without the cable attached; so along with your brass, it demands a good neck. The cable itself is strong and well constructed. It’s a single-ended design ; it would have been good to see a balanced option in there too.
The carry case is quite large; much bigger, and we’d have been looking for wheels and a slide out handle for lugging it around. However it’s fitting for such a premium model and offers adequate protection should you wish to take it anywhere.
Comfort
As mentioned above, some may be affected by the weight of the LCD-4z during longer listening sessions. Clamping pressure is fairly high, but mitigated by the leather earpads which are soft and comfortable.
Sound Characteristics
The Audeze LCD-4z was tested with a Chord Hugo mk.1 as DAC and amp; it’s ironic that this is far cheaper than the headphones themselves! A more substantial setup may affect the LCD4z’s response somewhat.
Overall the LCD-4z has a warm feel to its output, with a sound which is comfortable and luxurious.
Bass
Low extension is very good which is well voiced and natural-sounding. If a particular track means to hit us with sub-bass, be sure to have your fillings certified by a qualified mouth doctor prior to listening.
Further up, bass presence may be a little too much for some in relation to mids and treble. This may be a nod toward those who are demanding more in the way of bass presence these days. Definition is very good; there’s a certain rounded quality to it which feels like it’s impinging on the midrange but it doesn’t get in the way of midrange detail.
Mids
Vocals are rich and very detailed; it feels like we’re peering into the singers’ throats with a broad wooden spatula. Backing vocals are very seductive, with some nice separation giving the impression of singers standing about the listener.
With tracks which generally push the limits of comfort in terms of midrange presence (such as with the upper registers of the clarinet), the LCD4z does rein it in a little, so if fatigue is an issue for you the LCD-4z is an option. Overall it’s a gooey, fun midrange and a very alluring one.
Treble
Treble presence is ideal for this self-confessed Sennheiser HD650 fan; some may find it a bit muted for their tastes but it allows the music to ooze out without the feeling that it’s being forced. It continues on from the midrange in a natural and pleasing way.
Fine details are well rendered with subtle harmonics present; trumpets and other brass instruments are really quite enjoyable.
Soundstage and Separation
Soundstage is about average for an open-back model, with imaging and separation doing a decent job whilst maintaining a natural feel.
Music genres good for and why
The warm nature of the LCD-4z complements modern, studio-produced genres such as pop and rock. If you like sub-bass laden offerings such as with rap or drum and bass, then the LCD4z is a sure winner. However those who favour classical, opera or live recordings may require a little more bite where it comes to treble.
Summary
Audeze’s new LCD-4z hits us hard; both with sub-bass and credit card bills. However, relaxing with a set of these in place will certainly mask the insistent knocks on the door from bailiffs.
We’ve have some of the best full size hi-fi headphones from under £100 to over £1000 from 2017. The reviews are designed to help you choose from the massive selection of hi-fi and audiophile headphones available with open back and closed back designs. From established brands like Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser, to new creative brands like MrSpeakers and Audeze.
Scroll down for in depth reviews of our favourite full size open back and closed back headphones.
The closed-back Edifier H840 has audio quality which belies its entry-level price. Low-cost headphones can emphasise the bass a little too much but the Edifier H840 has a good balance throughout the frequency range, with midrange and treble coming through with impressive clarity. Bass is there too, and prominent enough to give a bit of weight to those basslines without stealing the show.
Build quality is also impressive for headphones at this price; they are quite rugged, but light and comfortable as well.
They can be used either in the home or as a portable model, since the closed-back design offers good isolation from exterior sounds and the H840 can be powered sufficiently by a phone, or a portable music player.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
If you’re on a budget, there is no need to compromise on sound quality. For the asking price, the Edifier H840 represents amazing value.
Sennheiser’s HD461 models come in two flavours, depending on whether you have an Apple handset (with a headphone socket!) or an Android handset. Designed primarily for portable use, the HD461 models can also be used with home equipment as they will still work in standard 3.5mm stereo sockets.
Also, the cables are available separately as spares, so if you change your phone from one type to the other, you only need to get the appropriate cable for full functionality with your new handset.
The design is light and comfortable with a sound akin to what Sennheiser generally prefers; a warm comfortable sound with enough sparkle at the treble end to keep things interesting and vibrant, but without any danger of listener fatigue. The HD461 design hsa a little bit of extra bass than usual however, so if you’re a bass fan then these are worth a try.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
For a bassy accompaniment at home or on the move, the HD461i (or HD461G) will give full functionality with your handset, whether Apple of Android. With spare cables available too, there is no need to change your headphones if you change your phone (iPhone 7 notwithstanding!).
The new HP151 from SoundMAGIC is perfect for those who want to treat themselves to some excellent sound and build quality, but without breaking the bank. The HP151 comes with a sturdy carry case and an extension cable for more options if listening at home, but is otherwise suitable for portable use, being of a closed-back design. Be aware however that whilst the HP151 will work well with commercial genres, classical or similar may require more amplification than a phone/handset can provide on its own, as those music types generally have quieter recordings, with less dynamic compression applied during production.
The HP151 sound has a good amount of well controlled bass from its 53mm drivers, and midrange/treble are clear and present. It’s a comfortable sound, and it is not likely that listener fatigue will set in.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The HP151 is a fantastic all-rounder, with a bassy yet crisp sound. It has a spacious and wide presentation considering the closed back design, and it looks really good too!
Final makes some excellent-sounding headphones with great build quality too. Their closed-back Sonorous range encompasses many models, but the Sonorous III is a point of interest as it gives some amazing sound quality for the price. With slightly boosted bass and treble, the Sonorous III gives a little added shine to your tracks without going overboard. The low impedance of this design makes it suitable for using with a portable device or phone, for enjoying your collection in the home, or out and about.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The Sonorous III is a favourite here for its relaxed, natural sound. However the Sonorous II is also noteworthy as a more neutral version, giving a more faithful rendition of your recordings and particularly suitable for classical and acoustic performances.
Best Full Size Headphones Under £800
Now we start to enter the price range of diminishing returns; for instance, headphones costing £800 will not sound twice as good as those costing £400, but if you are intent on raising your headphones game, these smaller improvements are still worthwhile to make your music collection come alive again.
Beyerdynamic has impressed us for many years and continues to do so with new models such as the Amiron Home. With sterling build quality and sound quality alike, the open-back Amiron Home does everything well. All frequencies are very well balanced with each other, with treble a little gentler than quite a few of Beyerdynamic’s previous models.
So the sound is natural and smooth; ideal for relaxing at home (where else?), and quite suitable for any music genres that can be thrown at it.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The Beyerdynamic Amiron Home is a real treat to use, and is as comfortable to wear as it is to listen to.
A relatively new maker, MrSpeakers has certainly caused a stir with their line of planar-magnetic models recently. Not least with the Aeon, a lightweight design which hits heavy with some excellent sound quality. The design lends itself well to portable uses, although additional amplification may be required if using with a phone.
The sound is fairly well balanced with a little extra bass and lovely clear midrange and treble. The Aeon is well suited for all genres, but a real treat with anything likely to get you moving!
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
If your portable audio game needs updating, the MrSpeakers Aeon is one to look at, although the Aeon is equally enjoyable if you like to stay put.
Focal’s recent additions to their lineup show a slight move away from the generally brighter sound of their previous models, to a gentler more laid-back sound which nevertheless gives detail in spades. The Elear is an exquisitely comfortable model to wear also, and gives the impression of the venerable HD650 but with a little bit of extra treble presence.
The Elear is not a light model at 434g, so this may be worth bearing in mind but the sound is very pleasing indeed.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
French company Focal has produced a real hit with the Elear, and it is easy to understand how; they’re great fun!
Pioneer’s new SE-Monitor5 is where headphones start to get sumptuous and luxurious! Build quality is like an executive car, and the plush padding is much the same. The SE-Monitor5 may be a little heavy for some at 480g but they are made for relaxing at home and swallow up the sides of the head with their huge earcups.
The sound is as you would expect from Pioneer at this price, with well-controlled bass doing just what it needs to according to the music genre being enjoyed. Higher frequencies follow suit and remain faithful to the music, only to add a little bit of extra excitement and glamour to proceedings, whilst staying very relaxing.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The SE-Monitor5 is incredibly comfortable and bound to please anyone who gives them a listen.
If you have got bored of circling Switzerland in your yacht then you’re probably lost, but you may be wealthy enough to consider the following models for your floating games room! These higher priced models may seem as steep as a black route ski slope, but those who accept no compromise will find the following offerings very interesting.
Sennheiser is no stranger to premium headphones, and has followed up on the excellent HD800, released a few years ago. Some felt that the HD800 is incredibly detailed but at the cost of a certain amount of musicality, so Sennheiser now has the HD800S which offers a little more in the way of ‘soul’. Bass is very responsive to what different music genres need without overdoing things, and midrange/treble give some excellent soundstage and imaging with a slightly gentler presentation when compared to the older HD800.
The HD800S is however just as comfortable as its older brother the HD800; these models can be worn for hours on end with no trouble.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The HD800S is a very popular model and with good reason; it’s as enjoyable as it is comfortable and has a fair amount of visual impact as well.
Audeze has plenty of models, but at the top of the range we have the planar-magnetic LCD-4. Top notch build quality is to be expected at this price, including unique drivers which feature NASA technology in their nano-scale diaphragms. These light, thin diaphragms can move very quickly with no inertia, making transient response times very fast, and bass precise with nice extension and very good control.
Made from 30 year old Macassar wood, the earcups are set off by bright silver grilles making the LCD-4 a treat to look at as well as to listen to. As well as the excellent bass, midrange and treble follow in good order with a smooth transition between, but with perhaps a slightly recessed midrange, putting bass and treble at the forefront of the presentation.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
For the last word in headphones, this may need to be your first stop!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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
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.
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:
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.
Focal has caused a stir recently with their two new additions; the Utopia and the Focal Elear headphones. In the hunt for a snappy title, we have found that the word ‘Elear’ has no definition in either English or French, so we had to make do with a click-baity title instead.
With the Utopia at a wallet-wilting £3499, the Elear has missed out on a lot of attention due to its less sensational price. However, £899 is still a fair whack for a pair of headphones so let’s see if we can define ‘Elear’ here.
Pros:
Excellent clear sound
Strong, well made cable
Great presentation, beautiful!
Cons:
Some may find them heavy
Design and Appearance
The Focal Elear comes in a very impressive looking box, although it won’t stand up to much use without starting to look scruffy, as it’s made of paper-coated wood or card. Given the Elear’s intended uses however, we don’t imagine that it will need to go back in very often. The headphones themselves are very well built, with great styling. Imagine the Sennheiser HD600 being designed by a Frenchman and the Elear would not be far off.
Durability and Build Quality
The Elear is of relatively light construction in terms of the way the components fit together. For instance the headband and earcups have a little bit of give to them, but this is down to helping achieve a good fit rather than poor design. Whether these parts loosen in years to come, time will tell but we don’t think so. That’s where the lightness ends though, as the Elear weighs in at a relatively hefty 434 grams (15.3 Oz – nearly a pound!).
Also the cable is quite substantial; it makes most other cables look like spider silk but it’s not cumbersome; ‘reassuringly lavish’ probably fits. It’s a rubber-coated affair and matches the headphones very well.
Comfort
There’s plenty of padding under the headband and with the soft and pliable earpads on the Elear, no particular part of the head registers discomfort. These headphones can be worn for hours depending on your neck muscles; those 434 grams can start imposing themselves after a while.
The Focal Elear‘s tuning is pitched slightly warmish, but with a respectable presence in the mid/treble region too. It is good at reproducing the subtle variations in volume offered by acoustic instruments and so excels with live and acoustic performances. Having said that, studio recordings are pretty convincing too. The Elear is fairly forgiving with less than perfect recordings, old records and music files; pops and scratches are there alright, but not brought into sharp relief. Enough fun can be had with old MP3 files without feeling as if we need to rush out and get these in higher resolution in order to enjoy the Elear.
Bass
Bass is in no short supply, but is well balanced with the rest of the frequencies; it doesn’t tend to dominate unless the music is already bassy. Sub bass gives a pleasant rumble if required, and mid bass is punchy and tight; it’s well behaved up to the midrange and the transition to the higher frequencies is nice and even.
Mids
Plenty of space here; decays are as long as needed and vocals/backing vocals are clear and well defined. Fans of acoustic and classical music are in for a treat as a strong impression of the recording space is given by the Elear, with the ebb and flow of natural reverb being very well reproduced.
Treble
Treble is not pushed at us but is very resolving and we find ourselves ‘reaching in’ to the recording to find tiny details which are all the more natural-sounding. Transient speed is excellent with clear, sharp percussive sounds. Also, be ready for unplanned sounds in recordings, such as when a singer opens their mouth, ready to sing. Unplanned perhaps, but fun to spot and enjoy as an added level of realism.
Soundstage and Separation
Width is great with studio recordings but as noted above, all the more realistic with recordings made within a performance space such as classical or opera. Imaging is impressive, with subtle harmonic details giving a strong impression of instrument shape and form.
Music genres good for and why
The Focal Elear is a good all-round choice; if this is the only headphone you have, it will do everything well but it really shines with classical and opera; anything which is recorded within a performance space really.
Summary
Focal’s Elear may sit in the shade next to Focal’s current flagship headphone (The Utopia) but can really dish up the goods. Prices for top of the range headphones have been pushing up and up recently, but if you wish to keep your feet on the ground then the Focal Elear is one of the best which can be had for under a grand.
The Fostex TH7BK seems to be a revision of the former model, the TH7BB. However, the older TH7BB had a semi-open design whereas the new TH7BK is closed. This lends itself better to the studio applications it’s designed for, but the 1.2m cable may require an extension cable. The TH7BK can be used for portable applications but will require a little help with amplification if being used with most handsets.
Pros:
Decent low cost studio cans
Good for monitoring
Cons:
Cable could be longer for studio use
Design and Appearance
The Fostex TH7BK is exactly like its older counterpart in terms of looks; it’s a plain design which doesn’t draw attention and doesn’t want it either. There is nothing unattractive about it, but it’s not going to suit you if you are planning on making an impression!
The plastic material has a rubberised coating of some sort, giving a matt finish all over.
Durability and Build Quality
Build quality is satisfactory, but the TH7BK is not designed for particularly heavy use. Sit on these and you’ll be looking for new headphones, but with care these will last for a good while.
Comfort
The TH7BK might be classed as an over-ear model but things are a little snug in there; if your ears are on the large side, they might also be partly on the outside, but most should be fine.
The Fostex TH7BK is designed to be a low cost solution for project studios and the like; the overall sound signature is fairly flat and dry, but with enough to work as a headphone for listening to music as an end user too.
Bass
Bass is not as emphasised as with most consumer headphones, but is well controlled and fits in with the rest of the presentation. It starts low and gives a bit of a thump, but no bruises are formed.
Mids
The midrange is clear and fully present without any troublesome peaks. Very good for monitoring and spotting details; vocals are clear enough but there is a slight raspy quality to them. Similarly, harmonics are not as clear as with higher priced offerings from Fostex, affecting imaging a little.
Treble:
Treble is clear too, but as with the midrange there is a grainy element to it. These are under £70, so it’s not meant as a criticism so much as a description of the sound. Hi hats and cymbals still sound good, but with an element of ‘rock ‘n roll’ roughness about them.
Soundstage and Separation
Soundstage depends on the production; some genres can seem a little flat and narrow, but others widen out quite a bit, such as classical. Given that these headphones were designed for monitoring and the like, this is not really an issue.
Separation is fairly good; everything has its place in the mix but it’s not completely distinct all the time.
Music genres good for and why
From the standpoint of an end user rather than a studio user, the Fostex TH7BK works well with electronic, dance and similar genres. Live music, classical and acoustic performances may seem a little two-dimensional however.
Summary
The Fostex TH7BK is good value as a tool for use in the studio, and can be used as a general listening headphone too. Any criticisms regarding the sound involve the TH7BK’s perceived use as an ‘end user’ headphone and so should be taken with a grain of salt; this model is not primarily designed for that purpose.
Hot on the heels of the Pioneer Master1 , the SE-Monitor5 promises to be a closed-back alternative. It’s a similar design but with a few tweaks here and there, and at a much lower price. So what does a grand get us from Pioneer these days?
Design and appearance (e.g. attractiveness, feel):
Wearing the SE-Monitor 5 certainly makes it known that you’re incommunicado; the earcups are big circular affairs which swallow up the ears and quite a lot of head along with them! Attractive copper rings decorate the earcups on the outside, and the cable bears a couple of rose gold touches.
The Pioneer SE-Monitor5 is built with longevity in mind and will probably last for many years. Everything is solid and premium-feeling with no weak points. The cable is a little unusual in that it’s a fabric-coated type which has been braided or twisted, so it resembles a vintage power cable. The twistings are not fixed so they’re a bit tighter here and not so tight there, making it a bit scruffy looking. Strain reliefs are pretty small, but this is a ‘stay at home’ model so pretty standard for that use. There are three cables included; a 3 metre one, and two shorter cables, one of which is balanced with a 2.5mm jack.
The connectors which go into the headphones are 3.5mm stereo jacks, so there is plenty of scope for aftermarket or DIY cables if that takes your fancy.
When swapping the earpads over, the housings for the drivers were revealed as being of solid magnesium alloy. It’s impressive that this should be found where few will ever venture and actually see it, but it’s probably there for acoustic reasons first and foremost.
Comfort:
The drawback of all this solid construction is the weight, around 480g (17 ounces). This reviewer is of the strong-necked variety, and heavier headphones have been tried but some out there may wish to think twice if they are sensitive to this sort of thing. The weight is quite evenly distributed between the earpads and headband, but the slight pressure from the headband may start making itself known after an hour or two.
Sound characteristics:
The Pioneer SE-Monitor5 comes with two sets of pads; the velour is fitted by default and there are a pair of leatherette earpads too. For this review the leatherette earpads are being used; with the velour pads the sound is a little more focused on the midrange with a lower bass level.
The SE-Monitor5 earpads are quite solid and the seal is affected if glasses are worn; glasses with chunky arms create a gap between the earpads and the head, letting out a fair bit of the low frequencies. Metal-framed glasses may be better. It’s easy to imagine that this issue will resolve itself when the earpads start to wear in.
Bass:
Bass is quite responsive to the music being played; it stays in its place with older genres but is fully present with anything newly produced. The sub bass comes out to play, and we’re treated to a very wide, tight and dazzling bottom end! There is no hint of the bass being elevated above where it should be with any particular thing. There’s a nice clarity and form to it, and it’s clear and well separated even with a lot going on within the midrange.
Mids:
Like the bass, the midrange doesn’t overdo it. The SE-Monitor 5 is a fairly flat and neutral-sounding headphone, but there is a certain warmth and lushness there to keep things sounding appealing. There is no sibilance though, or any sign that the SE-Monitor 5 is having anything other than a great time! It’s all relaxed and effortless.
The midrange hangs with the bass and merges seamlessly; there’s a vast amount of space and reverb trails/effects are clear and well defined all the way to their eventual decay. harmonics are clear and serve to make for a large and well defined sound.
Treble:
Following in the SE-Monitor 5 theme, the treble hits the right note too. It’s neither boosted or recessed; our attention is on the full presentation, and it’s topped off with some really impressive detail given the relaxed and unhurried way in which it appears to be served up. Like the midrange, the treble has an inviting lush quality to it which really appeals and makes for a slightly warm sound, but without compromising on detail.
The width of the presentation is pretty good for a closed-back model. There’s a decent amount of virtual space in which the SE-Monitor 5 has its fun, and a very real impression of the space in which the recording was made too, such as in the case of acoustic music like classical or opera.
The SE-Monitor 5 may be a little warm-sounding but not at the expense of details which give positional cues, preserving the positions and forms of instruments really well. There’s great layering and we’re well aware of players and voices stretching out to the fringes of the space; nice for backing vocals.
Music genres good for and why:
Headphones at this price point should really do everything well, and the Pioneer SE-Monitor 5 doesn’t disappoint. Classical pieces benefit from a certain weightiness without taking the listener away from the midrange detail. Drum and Bass can give its all, and the SE-Monitor 5 serves up sub bass in buckets. Older recordings sound vibrant and musical, whilst at the same time being given sympathetic treatment for any artefacts or hiss they may have.
Pros:
Excellent sound
Premium feel/Solid construction
Short and long cables included
Cons:
Might be a bit heavy for some
cables look untidy (nitpicking!)
Summary:
Pioneer’s new SE-Monitor 5 promises to be a closed-back follow up to the open-backed SE-Master 1; but is it a people pleaser? It goes well with all sorts of music and should put a smile on the face of the most committed curmudgeon!
Grado needs no introduction; they’ve been producing headphones since 1990 and have stuck to the same design ethic since then, making their headphones one of the most recognisable out there. Of course, there have been changes going on within the headphones themselves, not least with the ‘e’ range which was released a while back.
The Grado RS1e is one of these, with mahogany earcups and a very retro headband which makes us think of radio operators during World War II. Had their headphones sounded this good at that time, would the Allies have still won? It’s a real enigma.
Pros:
Good clear Grado sound
Attractive construction
Good quality extension cable included
Cons:
Cable’s a bit serpentine
Design and Appearance
The headband design is as simple as possible; pins and gimbals allow for size adjustment and that’s all. They say the best designs are the simplest, so this is not meant as a criticism! The quality of the headband and stitching is definitely something which needs to be remarked upon, even just from a retro-appreciation standpoint.
The mahogany earcups carry this theme very well too. They match the headband very well and go against the ‘shiny and new’ look that a lot of headphone makers strive for with their models. The Grado RS1e might have been introduced decades ago; this is testament to the fact that Grado is happy to rely on the tried and tested, rather than push designs that might be gimmicky and fashionable.
Durability and Build Quality
The RS1e is not designed for use anywhere other than at home or work, so we have no problems with its light and relatively barebones quality. The headband assembly won’t take kindly to being sat on though! The cable is a thick PVC coated affair much like the rest of their range; it would be nice to see a change here. It is supplemented by a 450cm Grado extension cable however.
There are no strain reliefs on the cable where it meets the headphones, so just ensure your foot is not on the cable when you stand up.
The wooden earcups are well turned and finished, and together with the leather headband they do look good.
Comfort
The Grado RS1e may look good, but padding is relatively spartan. Given the weight of this model, it’s not an immediate issue but pressure points may announce themselves during longer sessions, on the ears and over the top of the head.
Sound Characteristics
Grado is known for a fairly bright and airy sound from their headphones and the RS1e fits right in. There is bass in good proportion however, and the RS1e appears well balanced without any obvious peaks.
Note: There are reports that the RS1e improves after a certain burn-in period which pays no heed to review deadlines. If possible, this reviewer will return and update these impressions if necessary.
Sub-bass is there but fairly muted; it’s there if we look for it, but it may easily be missed in unfamiliar pieces. Low/Mid bass is more prominent with a nice width; it’s well controlled too and gives an impression of effortlessness, like it’s just pouring into the ears.
It has a well defined form and there are no concerns here; lots of space is left for those higher frequencies for which the Grado name is known.
Mids
The midrange is extremely clear and crisp-sounding which is a two-edged sword. With well produced and more ropey recordings alike, we get everything warts and all. Needle noise and pops on your digitised vinyl collection will be apparent, but older recordings are generally very well rendered.
Vocals may get a bit peaky here and there; particularly female vocals which can reach towards the piercing at times. Also, certain sounds such as bells, resonance on an electric piano or anything like that can cause issues depending on your particular sensitivity to these frequencies.
Treble
Faithful to the Grado sound, treble is fully present and is well balanced with the midrange. There is no obvious trouble between these areas of the frequency response, and so the midrange just seems to continue on up into the treble naturally. It makes for an airy and intricate sound, with plenty of fine details.
Soundstage and Separation
Soundstage is about average for an open-back; the sound seems to be coming from without, but the listener is not surrounded as such. Similarly, imaging and separation does not benefit from the clear midrange harmonics as much as expected, so maybe the wooden earcups are having an effect here, or this particular headphone needs a bit of running in before reaching its potential.
Music genres good for and why
The Grado RS1e is a real toe-tapper with any genre; however if you’re fond of sub bass in your tunes, you may miss this a bit. As mentioned though, it may improve as the headphones receive more use.
Summary
Grado’s RS1e is a graceful and svelte looking piece of kit, and sounds it too. It’s not bass light though, with a good balance between the various frequencies. There is a low bass rolloff so extremely low bass may be attenuated a bit.
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.
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.
Summer is round the corner so we thought it was about time to suggest some great travel headphones for your journeys abroad, long train trips and flights to distant lands. Or a stroll down to the supermarket.
Here we have chosen 5 of our best portable headphones ideal for travel and listed them in price order with a video review at the bottom of the page, ranging from low cost on ears, Bluetooth headphones and noise cancelling headphones. Here goes.
This £15 portable on ear is superb value. They deliver a big and energetic sound and they fold up for easy storage. The headphones also have an in line mic with smartphone controls making them versatile too.
The Koss PortaPros have been around for a long time now and with good reason too. Not only do you get impressive sound, the open back design helps deliver a natural soundstage and you can still hear what’s going on around you – this makes them popular for sports.
For years Lindy has been offering superb headphones at low prices – now they have stepped into the world of Bluetooth and really know what they’re doing. The BNX-60 gives you superb sound, Bluetooth connectivity and noise cancelling all for under £100!
Bowers & Wilkins design their headphones to look and feel great. The P3 is light and comfortable, and deliver a punchy and energetic sound. They also isolate very well so you won’t be interrupted while enjoying your favourite tunes.
The ultimate portable headphone. Sennheisers PXC550 does it all – Bluetooth connectivity, advanced noise cancelling and a touch sensitive trackpad makes them one of the most feature packed wireless headphones around. Their sound definitely won’t disappoint either.
SoundMAGIC needs no introduction for many; this brand has had tremendous success in recent years, not least with its full size offerings such as the HP100, HP150 and the open-back HP200. The SoundMAGIC HP151 promises to be a new and improved version of the HP150, with a few changes here and there.
Pros:
Nice styling and low-key design
2.5m cable more suited to indoor listening
Great sound
Cons:
Phones/handsets may struggle without amplification
Design and Appearance
Gone is the ‘tactile’ grey covering on the outside of the earcups, yokes and headband which the HP150 had; now it’s plain black plastic. Also the earcup ‘swivel’ feature of the HP150 is gone; the earcups are now fixed. Perhaps it was a bit tricky for those who aren’t DJs? The rest of us shouldn’t need to swivel too much anyway.
Another difference is the cable; it’s still a straight one but comes in at a longer 2.5m, as opposed to the original 1.5m (you can buy the shorter HP150 cables separately which will fit if needed). The extension lead which the HP150 had is no longer included.
Durability and Build Quality
Construction is from plastic and feels very solid, there are no squeezy or squeaky bits. The cable has decent strain reliefs and is rubber coated and slinky, not sticky.
The supplied case is a semi-rigid affair with a little pocket for keeping the supplied aircraft and 6.35mm adapters if needed, and will protect the headphones between uses. Just don’t sit on it.
Comfort
The SoundMAGIC HP151 is a light and comfortable headphone, thanks to its light construction, generously upholstered headband and earpads.
Suitability for intended application
The HP151 can be used quite successfully when on the move, but many handsets will not have sufficient power so a separate headphone amp may be required, or a dedicated player with a little more power than the average phone.
Otherwise it’s one for at home or in the studio.
Sound characteristics
The SoundMAGIC HP151 is a bit of a crowd pleaser; the overall balance is tilted slightly towards the warm but details are quite appreciable, and tape hiss comes through from those old recordings so there’s little roll-off with the treble. Note: for those interested in a comparison with the HP150, there is no difference other than the earcup and headband design; it’s the same great sound.
Bass
The big 53mm drivers give a nice thump to the HP151’s low bass; it doesn’t steal the show but gives a nice foundation, bass frequencies are given a bit of heft and authority without giving the impression of a bass-heavy headphone. Control is fairly tight; it’s a breezy, carefree bass with fun on its mind, but always makes it home in time for tea.
Mids
The midrange is all there with a slight dip in the 1kHz -2KHz area; there’s no noticeable holes or gaps in the frequency response as there may be with other models. It’s a gentle lowering to shun any shrillness and makes for an inviting and clear presentation. With the detail here and the aforementioned bass quality, the harmonics here can really bring instruments to life.
Similarly, vocals are clear and rather enjoyable with subtle details giving a really good representation of any performer’s unique character.
Treble
There’s plenty of sparkle, shimmer and zing here; it’s certainly a clear triple! It’s not overbearing, and gives just the right amount of presence for full enjoyment of those high frequency details. It’s a great balance between brightness and mellowness.
Soundstage & Separation
The width reaches out beyond the earcups a little way and gives a nice impression of space; both higher frequency detail and bass are able to jump out and give our ears a little tweak when the music dictates it; very nice. Separation is great too; classical pieces are rendered very nicely with clear harmonics preserving the character and positioning of everything, even with a lot going on.
The HP151 works with everything. Many genres were tried and none failed; bass heavy rap, acoustic, classical, dance; it’s a clear pass for this one.
Summary
If you are looking for a general use headphone with good isolation, look no further. Any and every music type sounds excellent with plenty of space and the feeling that these headphones are enjoying themselves just as much as the listener is!
With the B&W P7 Wireless, Bowers have made a great little portable headphone, with a fun and engaging sound signature in an understated, yet executive look.
Pros:
Engaging sound
Superior build quality
Comfortable
Cons:
Bass may be too strong for some
Design and Appearance
Bowers & Wilkins have stuck with their understated black and silver colour scheme for the B&W P7 Wireless, retaining luxury leather earpads and headband, along with brushed metal faceplates and sliders.
These headphones are the perfect size for a portable over the ear headphone, and they look fantastic, the included carry case will help keep them looking pristine.
Durability and Build Quality
The P7 Wireless look and feel very well built, being made out of leather and metal gives you confidence in their build, along with good strain relief on the included cable.
Ease of use
Pairing these headphones is quick and easy, and once paired they connect instantly, no issues with Bluetooth transmission were encountered.
Comfort
The memory foam, leather earpads are not the biggest but fit snugly around your ears with good cushioning. The clamping force is quite tight but not uncomfortably so, the headband is well padded and evenly distributes the weight over the top of your head, all qualities of a brilliant portable headphone.
These headphones isolate well, perfect for general out and about usage along with commutes, they also don’t leak sound so you won’t annoy people nearby.
Sound
The B&W P7 Wireless lean towards a darker, bassier sound whilst still giving you detailed sound.
Bass
This is the first thing you will notice when you put these on, it digs deep with pulsating sub-bass lines, and punchy mid bass. It makes these really good fun to listen to, and also means they keep good bass presence when in noisy environments. The bass is not just there in quantity, the quality is superb and does not overwhelm the rest of the sound.
Mids
The mids cut through well separated from the bass, with details in vocals being very easy to pick up on. Surprisingly these do not suffer from bleed from the lows, meaning they cut through cleanly, and the layering between instruments and different vocals is spot on.
Treble
These are not bright headphones, they do not have a lot of energy in the treble but what they do have is well positioned highs. They are pinpoint accurate in positioning, and are void of any fatiguing properties, but do take a back seat in the mix.
Soundstage and Separation
The soundstage is not huge, but it is very accurate with the ability to hear where instruments are placed in the mix easily.
Separation is good, these are a full sounding headphone so they do not fare so well during overly complex pieces of music.
Genres good for and why
The B&W P7 Wireless is perfect for modern pop recordings, along with some EDM, R&B and even some acoustic tracks. This is due to the slightly elevated bass keeping things exciting, and also well textured, and the mids having excellent detail retrieval.
It’s not often that a headphone model hangs about for over 30 years; in fact it only happens about every 30 years or so. Joking aside however, there must be a reason why the Koss Porta Pro continues to be a popular model; even in our era of flying cars, food pills and teleportation.
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.
Pros:
Small and foldy
Decent enough sound
The name has a ‘pro’ in it
Light and comfortable
Cons:
Boomy bass can be out of place
Midrange could use more presence
Some ‘lesser’ phones may struggle to power these
Design and Appearance
The design has not changed since the Apple Macintosh, and it shows. However with current tastes, this works in the Porta Pro’s favour. The bold solver rings and utilitarian headband may even add a touch of 70s retro styling too.
This model is rated at 60 ohms impedance, which together with the 101dB sensitivity makes them less useful with low-powered phones and the like, although those by most popular brands (Samsung, Apple etc.) should have the power.
Durability and Build Quality
Being intended for portable use, the Koss Porta Pro Classic is light and svelte, if a bit inelegant. During normal use, it’s difficult to spot any vulnerable areas in the design. There are no strain reliefs on the cable where it exits the headphones, but the cable is held in place within the driver housings themselves to prevent accidental yanking.
There is a strain relief at the jack end of the cable, and this terminates in an angled jack which is perhaps a 70 degree angle, at a guess. This appears to be a relatively new tweak in the design.
Comfort
Light or firm? Whether you’re reassured by a vice grip or you can’t stand the pressure, there are three settings on the Porta Pro Classics which allow the drivers to be pushed outwards, making things a bit looser.
The headband has had a few criticisms regarding its tendancy to entrap and pluck hairs out of the heads of unsuspecting listeners, but there’s been no problem with this so far.
Other than that, these are ‘wear and forget’ headphones.
Suitability for intended application
Is there only one intended application? Apart from the obvious portable uses, the Koss Porta Pro is equally enjoyable when used as an open-backed headphone at home or in the office. The comfort level also makes this a nice choice for some pillow action too.
Sticking to portable uses though, the headphones fold up to a very small size and can go in a pocket between uses for instance. This makes them a very sensible choice for the itchy footed.
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.
Bass :
As above, the bass can be a little overpowering depending on your genres or tastes, and its a bit loose too. There’s not much definition and it’s hard to know where the midrange starts; it’s easier to figure out where the bass stops! However with a lot of pop and rock, this gives a hearty thump which is certainly in keeping with those genres.
Mids:
The midrange isn’t completely invisible but there was the feeling that the volume needed to be increased as not enough of the music’s ‘meat’ was getting through. This is fairly typical of entry-level equipment; however it does the job, and will pass muster for anyone who is used to spending under £50 on headphones.
Treble:
Higher frequencies are well balanced with the rest but not too prominent; percussion and the like make themselves known without making a nuisance of themselves, and it’s a smooth transition from the midrange. A little more presence at the top end would have been good to enhance the open-back nature of the Koss Porta Pro Classics, providing a bit more airiness.
Soundstage and Separation:
Being open-back, this model has a fairly wide sound but it’s not exceptional. The definition of midrange harmonics does not quite make for a convincing presentation in terms of separation, but it’s an enjoyable one nonetheless for the asking price.
Music genres good for and why
The Koss Porta Pro Classics give quite an impressive sound when it comes to stuff which benefits from the bass on offer, such as dance, R&B, hiphop, pop etc. Jazzy genres may depend on the type; swingy stuff with a double bass is fun, but if there’s a lot of midrange action, it might feel a bit flat.
Classical and acoustic music may benefit from a tighter, more subdued bass but if you enjoy a mixture of styles then it’s quite acceptable to listen to whilst on the move, but you may hanker for something a little clearer if relaxing at home.
Summary
The Koss Porta Pros are still very popular after more than 30 years, even amongst people who own other headphones costing an arm and a leg. They are seen as a decent low-cost model for use out and about and are quite practical, given that they fold up into a neat package between uses. Be aware though that their open-back nature means that they will be of limited use in noisy environments.
Grado has enjoyed tremendous success over the years with various models, but has never departed from their basic headphone design as illustrated by the Grado GS2000e. It’s unusual in this world of fashions and fads that Grado has kept so faithful to this design but it’s obviously working for them! So is the GS2000e without match, or is it matchwood?
Pros:
Nice neutral sound
Fantastic imaging and soundstage
Comfortable
Cons:
Ungainly standard cable which cannot be removed or replaced
Design and Appearance
Indeed there are no surprises here; we may as well expect our US cousins to drive on the proper side of the road as revise this design. There is a tweak though; the GS2000e is a slightly different shade of brown. The slightly differing colour is due to the mixture of woods in this model. Mahogany to give the sound a bit of a polish, and maple which makes it more syrupy.
..Or perhaps the maple gives a brighter presentation which is held in check by the mohogany, for a clear and well-balanced sound.
The cable is still a non-removeable serpent-like affair which threatens to restrict the oxygen of careless music lovers, so there’s no change there.
Durability and Build Quality
Despite our gentle teasing, the cable is up to the job and there are no concerns regarding quality. The cable is stout with a heavy duty coating; it might have come off the Brooklyn Bridge itself. The 1/4 inch jack is military grade and the headphones themselves, while being light and comfortable, are made to last. They probably won’t appreciate being sat on though.
Comfort
Some have complained about comfort issues with some other Grado models, but the GS2000e benefits from the large earcups; any clamping force is distributed over a wider area. Also with glasses, there are no points of pressure which are making themselves known. However, after a couple of hours things might start to feel a bit claustrophobic in there!
The Grado GS2000e is definitely one to keep at home; they isolate exterior noise as if they weren’t there at all, and your music will be broadcast as if you’re a Public Access TV show. But for those quiet moments at home, they are just perfect.
Sound Characteristics
The GS2000e has a slightly understated sound when compared to the GS1000e; the emphasis on bass and treble is reduced, which makes the midrange more of a centrepiece. Harmonics and therefore imaging will be a little stronger on the GS2000e, thanks to the relatively present midrange.
These were tested using a Chord Hugo.
Bass :
Bass goes deep, and is clear. It’s not there in quantities to make fans of dance music jump, but does a good job of reproducing what’s there. It is also very detailed and well controlled.
Mids:
This is the focus of the GS2000e’s sound; they do come across as reasonably neutral with perhaps a tad of extra presence at the upper end of the midrange. There is generally no sign of sibilance here however, although the odd recording may give a bit of trouble depending on the mastering.
Detail is superb, further enhancing soundstage and imaging. The sense of space with acoustic or classical recordings is wonderous.
Treble:
That feeling of ‘air’ we know from the entry-level Grados is not so forced but is still there, and the detail is amazing. However it’s not pushed at us so much; we need to peer inside and dig it out, which is much more enjoyable.
Soundstage and Separation
Soundstage is excellent and much the same as the GS1000e; however separation/imaging is slightly enhanced on the GS2000e, due to the relatively present midrange.
Music genres good for and why
The GS2000e is probably better for acoustic music, classical recordings and the like; the neutral sound does not lend itself well to dance and pop genres when compared to other lower-cost headphones, but these can easily be enjoyed when the wearer gets used to this setup.
Also, older recordings are given good treatment; the smooth treble is quite forgiving which makes the Grado GS2000e perfect for fans of vintage music and old vinyl.
Summary
Grado’s GS2000e is a worthy addition to their lineup, and a good idea for those who fancy a more neutral version of the GS1000e.
We have listed the best sports headphones and earphones to help drive you along. Here you can find our selection of the best earbuds, portable headphones, wireless headphones and earphones and everything in between. Perfect for sporty use!
The Fidue A31S may be the cheapest of this lineup, but is every bit as good at wringing the last beads of sweat out of you! The tiny capsules sit in the ears with the cable worn over the ear or down, and the supplied double flange eartips give excellent isolation.
An updated version of the original PL30 earphones, the PL30+ boasts a more attractive deisgn and also a behind-the-ear wearing style for a secure fit whilst you exercise.
This on-ear design is open-back, meaning that while others may hear your tunes, you will be able to hear the environment around you as well as your music. Perfect for pounding the streets safely!
The M7P has mobile phone controls and a volume slider conveniently placed on the cable, and pivoting nozzles for a secure and comfortable fit behind the ear.
With tuneable filters, the Vyrus can give you a bassy sound or crystal clear treble for a sound which will best spur you on! Can be worn over the ear too.
The wireless BE Sport 3 model features ‘fin’ attachments to secure the earphones into your ears so may be better if you wear glasses or shades whilst running, for example.
These wireless noise-cancellers aren’t just for meditation, the sound from the BNX-60 is superb and they will completely enclose the ears – handy on those cold days!
These impressive earphones from RHA will sit in place securely behind the ears and motivate the most lethargic lollygaggers with a powerful bass and clear midrange.
Any worries about a secure fit can vanish with some custom-moulded eartips from Snugs. Together with Some M9B bluetooth earphones from Mee Audio, you’ll get excellent isolation and the convenience of wireless together.
