Have you ever experienced a day where you knew it went well, but did not know how much of an effect that day would have on your life? This was the case the day that I spoke with Massdrop's Will Bright about a couple of amp-type products that they were going to launch in the near future. One was a small (very small), but powerful DAC/amp called the CEntrance DACport Slim, and the other was an amp that was from the Colorado, United States-based company Grace Design.  I have conversed with Will on multiple occasions and in person, and I can comfortably say that his collaborations are exemplary and intriguing.  Usually what he likes, I like as well.  This comes back to the days (not too long ago), when all that we talked about were our Shure SE846 earphones with vigor and excitement.   Wanting to learn more about Grace Design and amplification in general, I graciously accepted the offer to share my opinion.  I have experience with most aspects of high-fidelity audio, but haven’t owned any significant DAC/amp in my life.  This was until I received a box with the words “GRACE DESIGN” ablaze on it.  Curious to find out what was inside, I opened it up.  My jaw dropped and my eyes widened.  Behold…
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Clockwise starting at upper-left:  USB type A to USB type B micro cable 6', 2A power adapter,  USB type A to USB type B micro cables 10', m9XX

 
Front of m9XX

 
Front of m9XX

 
Volume control rotary encoder

 
Rear of m9XX

 
Underside of m9XX

 
 
Audio equipment used in the review
 
DAC/Amps
CEntrance DACport Slim: $99 shipped in the United States
Grace Design x Massdrop m9XX DAC/Amp: $499 shipped in the United States
 
Headphones
HIFIMAN HE1000: $2,999
Master & Dynamic MH30: $349
Master & Dynamic MH40: $399
Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 AEi: $349.95
 
Earphones/IEMs
Puro Sound Labs IEM500: $199.99
Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear: $99.95
Shure SE846: $1,000
Sensaphonics Custom Sleeves: $150 (used with Shure SE846)
 
Third-party cable
Headphone Lounge FBI Reference Silver Litz Cable (MMCX) = Price varies
 
Sources
iPhone 6 (Space Gray, 128GB):  $849.99 or $399.99 with a 2-Year Contract
Questyle Audio QP1R Golden and Space Gray: $899 USD
Samsung S5 (Shimmery White): $552.00 with Verizon
 
Software Applications Used
JRiver Media Center 20: $49.98
Sound Level Analyzer: $4.99
TIDAL HiFi – Lossless: $20 per month or $10 with student discount
 
Adapter for 1/4 inch headphone inputs
iMBAPrice Premium High Quality Adapter STEREO GOLD Plug 1/4" (6.3mm) Male to 1/8" (3.5mm) Female - Gold Plated - Lifetime Warranty (I use a similar adapter): $5.09
 
 
If you have read my earlier Head-Fi posts (mostly in the Shure SE846 Impressions Thread), I say that the iPhone is enough for an IEM, and that I am in no need for a DAC/amp.  Being able to attend various meets and listening to a plethora of awesome sounding DAC/amps, my position started to change slightly.  I still feel that an iPhone sounds great.  However, having that extra kick, clarity and overall audio coherency that a properly implemented DAC/amp can provide is paramount.  This is especially true when you are dealing with the task of driving less efficient headphones. 
 
I would like to share my experience with the m9XX over the time that I have been able to own this graceful, yet powerful DAC/amp.
 
I feel that since there are only 500 units being dropped on Massdrop here: https://www.massdrop.com/buy/grace-design-x-massdrop-m9xx-dac-amp, I should explain why you should purchase this DAC/amp.  This is one of my favorite sounding DAC/amps regardless of form-factor and price that I have listened to.  Once you factor in the form-factor, price that is not exorbitant, as well as the exclusivity of owning a limited-run (possibly) device, you owe it to yourself to give the DAC/amp a shot – not just a listen…but a purchase.  What’s great is that you can buy the m9XX and not love it.  You can then give the m9XX to a friend, family member or audiophile/music lover as a gift, and as a result, they will adore the sound that the Grace Design DAC/amp effortlessly produces.  I call the m9XX a “Portable Desktop Solution”, or “PDS”, respectably.
 
More about the PDS moniker, why call it that? 
 
Portable – powers IEMs with the linear volume selection, meaning from “0.” (or ½/.5) to about 50 (with a sensitive IEM such as the Shure SE846) the volume rises very gradually.  The m9XX powers most all headphones with some serious power at the higher numbers.
 
Desktop – emits a dedicated desktop/quality (or better) sound, which is amazing for its miniscule dimensions.  Headphones get VIP treatment, and IEMs get VIP treatment as well, as both are taken care of with the utmost of affection.
 
Solution – this is a portable desktop solution for higher powered phones like the Samsung S5, computers, or anything that utilizes a lineout or optical out.  The solution is an immensely high-fidelity sound in the palm of your hand that you can transport, and as a result, is simply marvelous.
 
 
Let's get connected
 
When I first connected the m9XX, I got absolutely no volume from my HE1000.  What I did not know until I realized after a few minutes, was that even having the volume at “40” does not do much good for the average difficulty to drive HE1000.  The volume stays at a low volume up to about “50” for sensitive IEMs, which is an amazing feature the m9XX offers.  I usually keep the volume low when listening to a DAC/amp for the first time, since I have experience with volumes higher than normal when I try out the DAC/amp for the first time (for instance, listening at a meet), so having the volume very low, and turning it up was not helping at all.  As soon as I “went for it” and turned it up to the 70’s and 80’s, did I start to hear any substantial volume.  Once I was able to hear the music, the volume escalates very quickly, and with aplomb.  The m9XX is able to power difficult to drive headphones, as it has more power than my QP1R (which does well with difficult to drive headphones) and the DACport Slim (which also powers headphones well despite its diminutive size).
 
 
Keep the music playing
 
As mentioned in the manual, if you connect and sometimes disconnect the headphone from the m9XX while music is playing, the m9XX will show “OC”, which means “Over Current”.  The internal processor will mute the audio and momentarily shut down the audio supplies to protect the m9XX from damage and to also keep the m9XX from drawing excessive current from your computer.  When the m9XX shows “OC”, the volume will be muted for several seconds, and then will turn back on.
 
I experienced "OC" during these situations:
 

1. Unplugging/plugging in earphones/headphones at higher volumes.
2. Anytime the m9XX was playing at a high volume at approximately 90s and higher with headphones plugged in (never tried with earphones because anything “90” and above can damage the earphones since the volume output is exceedingly loud).
3. Using only the USB input from a computer will cause the m9XX to “OC” while very loud music is playing at approximately 90 and higher (Low Power mode).  Adding in the external power source (via “5V, 2A" USB input – High Power mode) allowed the m9XX to reach the entire volume range (“99.”) with ease and does not “OC”.
4. Muting the volume before plugging and unplugging in the headphones/earphones during Low and High Power modes made it so I would not experience “OC” at all.

 
 
Higher power devices should work
 
I tried to get my iPhone 6 connected to the m9XX via Apple CCK, USB hub and outlet power/external battery charger, to no avail (keep reading, solution below):
  
 
However, I spoke with a m9XX owner and friend @HiFiGuy528, and he was able to get his iOS devices (iPhone 6 and 6+, etc.) working with his Cute USB 2-port hub!  It can be purchased here: http://www.amazon.com/Cute-USB-2-Port-Splitter-Black/dp/B00FJG5T4W/ref=lp_7583942011_1_1?srs=7583942011&ie=UTF8&qid=1445921860&sr=8-1.  I purchased one in black, and it arrived and works with the iPhone 6 without any issue.  Here's the setup:
Cute USB Mini 2-port USB 2.0 Hub Splitter

 
Side view

 
Showing 2 USB ports

 
Connected to Apple CCK

 
iPhone 6 to Apple CCK to Cute USB Mini to USB A/USB B to USB input; USB A/USB B to power outlet

 
iPhone 6 to Apple CCK to Cute USB Mini to USB A/USB B to USB input; USB A/USB B to external battery charger (Anker PowerCore+ 13400mAh external battery charger shown)

 
Close-up angle of same connection above

 
Connection update: With the 0008_DFU m9XX firmware update, I was not only able to get the iPhone 6 to connect on it's own (via power source as well), without the need of a USB add-on such as the Cute USB Mini 2-port Hub, but I was able to get the m9XX (using Windows 7 Ultimate) to set as the default automatically when it's plugged in each time!  Very happy with the update:
 
iPhone 6 to Apple CCK to USB A/USB B to USB input; USB A/USB B to external battery charger (Anker PowerCore+ 13400mAh external battery charger shown) and IEM500

 
iPhone 6 to Apple CCK to USB A/USB B to USB input; USB A/USB B to external battery charger (Anker PowerCore+ 13400mAh external battery charger shown) and HE1000

 
I was able to get my friend and Head-Fier @Netforce's Samsung S5 working via S5, USB to USB mini cable and external battery charger:

 
 
TOSLINK optical input
 
I wanted to see how optical would fare with the m9XX, so I connected the QP1R to the m9XX optically, using a TOSLINK optical adapter with the optical cable for the QP1R, connected to the m9XX.
 
TOSLINK optical cable adapter and optical cable

 
TOSLINK optical adapter connected to optical cable

 
TOSLINK optical connected to QP1R

 
TOSLINK optical from QP1R connected to m9XX

 
“Dropped” Massdrop m9XX’s will have the updated firmware that will silence the music when a file over a 96kHz PCM digital audio signal attempts to play via optical.
 
The sound from the HE1000, QP1R and m9XX was sublime, and was highly resolute and utterly transparent.  I would say the presentation was such a rewarding experience that you would want to listen to just one more track.
 
 
Family game night
 
I brought some of my audio equipment for my family to listen to. 
 

 
The only person to listen to the m9XX that night was my younger brother. 
 
My brother listening to JRiver + HE1000 + m9XX

 
My brother is interested in video games, computers and music, but not necessarily higher-fidelity or more expensive equipment.  He was game to listen to the m9XX and share with me (and now, you) his thoughts.
 
Here's my brother's thoughts after listening to a few tracks from Tidal, HE1000 and m9XX:  “Very crisp and clear.  You know the “Five” gum commercial?  You are surrounded by the vibrations, and it feels like you are there.  It feels like you are surrounded by the music.” 
 
After listening to Logic – Like Woah via Tidal, Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 AEi and m9XX, he said it sounds like digital surround.  He says he that can hear the drums behind him. 
 
Next up is the MH40 same track – he says it sounds almost like the Momentum – good!
 
Finally he takes a listen to the MH30 – he likes the bass on these. “One thing that stood out was the bass. It really stands out. Good sound. More compact than the others.”
 
Great, now let’s go for a comparison.  I played a song that was melodic, popular, and just a fun listen for my brother to make comparisons – Kings Never Die from Eminem and Gwen Stefani.  He listened to both the m9XX and QP1R on the Momentum 2.0 AEi, playing the same track at around the same volume, calibrated via Sound Level Analyzer.  He preferred the Grace Design amp sound compared to the Questyle player’s sound. He said the Momentum 2.0 AEi's sound with the m9XX sounded very quiet and said with the QP1R it sounds like you know you are wearing headphones. 
 
Next up, the HE1000 is ready for the comparison.  He says that there isn’t as much interference or background noise with the m9XX than the QP1R has. He articulates: “You know when you are shopping for TV's and the color black that is blacker determines the better TV, same way with the sound of the music as well. When there is more silence on the quieter parts the better it sounds. With the amp I think it sounds pitch black with regards to background noise.” 
 
Ray Charles & Count Basie Orchestra - Oh What a Beautiful Morning is the next track that is being compared that sounded amazingly graceful (no pun intended, or maybe, who knows?) with the HE1000 and Grace Design DAC/amp.  The next song that I played was a 320kb song, Ed Sheeran's Bloodstream, and my brother thought it sounded great. He iterates: “Sounds so good for being a lossy file. Can easily mistake it for a song of a higher bitrate. Very clear.” 
 
Overall, my brother thinks that the DAC/amp is worth it for the price for audiophiles. 
 
 
Notable features
 
Low and High Power modes, which is great because you do not have to depend solely on High Power mode/outlet power, as using Low Power mode/USB and an external battery charger makes the m9XX truly portable.
 
The TOSLINK optical and RCA output gives you another way to enjoy your music – via power amp or powered speakers which is always welcome.
 
Two headphone outputs makes it so you and a friend can listen to the same song.  What I do if I know there is a “mismatch” with a headphone/earphone such as one requires more volume than the other; I will only match near efficient pairs.  For example, I can pair the easy to drive Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 AEi with the very easy to drive Shure SE846 in respectable inputs.  I can also pair a little bit more difficult to drive HE1000 with the more difficult to drive IEM500 in respectable inputs.
 
Crossfeed circuitry is a welcome option as it can be turned on or off. I keep the crossfeed on.
 
The volume control is the overall best looking and feeling rotary encoder that I have ever felt.  This is the truth.  The volume control is the truth.  The tactile feedback is immeasurably satisfying.  You turn the rotary encoder either way to turn up or down the volume.  You press it down with a satisfying “click” sound to mute the audio (and negate ever experiencing “OC”!)  Once you keep the rotary encoder down for two seconds, you will enter the m9XX’s options, turning the rotary encoder either way to change the settings or press down the rotary encoder to change the selected setting.
 
The 7-segment display is bright, large enough and easily legible in bright light as well as complete darkness.  You also have the option to turn off the illumination via “Display Dimmer Mode” setting (d.d. [dim] or dd [not active]).
 
The power up level is a thought out option; because you can set exactly what volume step you want the m9XX to start up every time.  I keep mine at “0” when it powers up.
 
The DAC filter utilizes four filter response modes, which are:
 
F1 = Sharp roll off, linear phase
F2 = Slow roll off, linear phase
F3 = Sharp roll off, minimum phase
F4 = Slow roll off, minimum phase
 
Here's more information regarding the filters:
 

 
To read more about the AK4490 DAC, you can peruse through this link: http://www.akm.com/akm/en/product/featured/velvetsound/.
 
I chose the default, which is the F1 = Sharp roll off, linear phase filter response mode.
 
0.08 Ω of output impedance – black backgrounds are par for the course.
 
The chassis and every part of the m9XX are made with high quality anodized aluminum and steel what looks to me like aircraft-quality materials.  Yes, it looks and feels that wonderful.
 
 
Power comparisons
 
My method of dB reading:
 

• Perform tests in a quiet room or as quiet area as possible.
• Set Sound Level Analyzer (Z frequency weighted) settings.
• Use stock cables for tests.
• Place microphone of iPhone 6 very close to the left earcup on all tests.
• Make sure earcup is open and not laying on an object.
• Run DAC/port Slim and m9XX at full volume (High gain, "90.").
• Use -3 dBFS 192 kHz pink noise track.
• A screenshot is taken of Sound Level Analyzer's "Lmin (dB)", "Leq (dB)" and "Lmax (dB)".

 
All measurements have been created with no EQ utilized.
 
I calibrated both DAC/port Slim and m9XX to emit the HE1000 around 81 dB with the Sound Level Analyzer (Z frequency weighted) as both DAC/amps were loaded with the same -3 dBFS 192 kHz pink noise track for sound quality comparison tests.  The HE1000 + DACport Slim needed about 1 1/2 full volume dial sliding upwards on High Gain and the HE1000 + m9XX needed "82." to reach as approximate the same sound level/volume as possible. 
 
Max volume of the DACport Slim and HE1000 using Sound Level Analyzer (Z weighting) and -3 dBFS 192 kHz pink noise track
  
 
m9XX + HE1000 with 1/4 to 1/8 in adapter
  
 
m9XX + HE1000 with 1/4 in cable
  
 
 
Sound impressions
 
I think the sound of the Grace Design DAC/amp is balanced and not overly or artificially boosted in any area of the frequency spectrum. The transparency of the presentation is apparent and immediate. It reminds me of food that tastes so invigorating, but hits the spot, is not too sour, not too salty, not too sweet, and not too spicy.  It tastes just right.  Compared to the DACport Slim, the m9XX is more coherent, resolving, clear and is able to retrieve micro, macro, and major detail in a more preferable manner.  The DACport Slim has more overall bass in its presentation, and the m9XX is more balanced and natural in its presentation. 
 
 
Disclaimer and hearing factors
 
The earphone and headphone reviews (brief or more in-depth) are mainly for anyone wanting a point of reference regarding how they more or less pair with the m9XX. 
 
We all hear differently, and our experiences with regards to how our interpretation of what we hear vary greatly.  Some factors that come to mind (and not limited), are: 
 
Your inner ear and skull’s overall composition: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/the-unique-vibrations-of-your-skull-affect-how-you-hear-music-654940/?no-ist.
 
Hearing loss as we age, also known as presbycusis: https://www.ohio.edu/news/months/nov1998/111.html,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presbycusis.
 
Heredity, noise trauma, dietary habits, smoking, hypertension, atherosclerosis, are other factors that affect people’s overall hearing ability.
 
 
Select headphone/IEM pairings
 
Shure SE846 + SCS 

 
Tight.  Punchy.  Spacious.  Immersive!  The SE846 is a fabulous combination with the m9XX.  I personally do not detect a low treble rolloff.  I am using the SCS + Ted’s Silver Litz, plus black filter mod/white filter, so those mods/add-ons/replacements more than likely contribute to the veil of sorts being lifted.  Wow…wow.  I am listening to Seal’s Life On The Dance Floor via Tidal and m9XX, and it sounds so sweet and resolving.  Every bit of the sound spectrum, be it bass, midrange, treble, spatial capabilities simply ceases to amaze me.  The SE846 + SCS + m9XX are coherent and resolving without clutter, without mess.  I can go on and on, but this combination is a winner for those that want a clear and coherent sound with the extra bass kick for good measure.
 
Puro Sound Labs IEM500

 
When I met Jim Noyd at The Source A/V meet not too long ago, I just thought he would let me listen to the IEM500 as it looked pretty good on their website.  He gave them to me.  No mention of giving a review on them.  I wouldn’t have either more than likely if I didn’t like them, but these IEMs sound so lovely, that it would be a disservice not to say anything publicly about them.  A review will more than likely be forthcoming, but I need to say some thoughts about how they pair with the m9XX.  In one word: lush.  The overall sound is very rich, and I can tell the double dynamic drivers are working in full unison.  The bass is obvious, but not overbearing.  The midrange is liquid smooth, more like a vanilla shake from In-N-Out.  If too many food references are getting to you, let me know – but these foods are what comes to my mind.  The treble is laid-back and not harsh in the least.  The spatial capabilities, mainly soundstage, imaging and detail retrieval, are natural and present.  Intimate, yet spacious, are the words I would describe the IEM500 and m9XX combination.  Worth a listen, and worth purchasing, as I saw the prices of these on Amazon – wow!
 
Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear

 
This is the world premiere Momentum In-Ear in black chrome.  When I first listened to Jude’s maroon colored Momentum In-Ear for the first time, I asked him “How many drivers are in this?”  He said “Just one”.  I replied “Wow, I’ve got to get me one of these!” Thank you to Mr. Mahmood for supplying me with an IEM that I liked from the start, in exchange for my opinion.  I am simply enamored by this mighty single dynamic driver IEM.  I loved the maroon color of the original Momentum, but Sennheiser has hit it out of the park with a blingy, yet classy iteration of the popular Momentum In-Ear.  The m9XX turns this into a more balanced IEM.  The prominent midbass presentation still remains, but what a sublime midbass the Momentum In-Ear emits.  The entire presentation is warm, but gooey, like a tasty Cinnabon.  If you haven’t experienced a Cinnabon yet, you need to.  Okay, back to the fabulous sounding Momentum In-Ear.  The tonal balance of the midrange and treble is detailed, yet suave all at the same time.  Soundstage and imaging are not the strongest suits, but the crossfeed of the m9XX does an exemplary job of making the spatial capabilities of the Momentum In-Ear blossom to the best of its abilities. A great listen and warm sounding IEM, but opens up when paired with the m9XX.
 
Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 AEi

 
This headphone is already balanced and dignified via an iPhone.  Paired with the m9XX, the Momentum 2.0 AEi is a capable headphone.  I would like to thank Mr. Mahmood for sending over the brown version to me for my honest opinion.  What I like is the cups actually look like a dark metallic bronze color, very subtle, yet stylish.  If you check my earlier posts on Head-Fi, I posted that I did not like the original Momentum’s sound.  The update is more my cup of tea, to say the least.  I will not say exactly which headphone Sennheiser I do not like as much as the Momentum 2.0 AEi, but what I will say is that this headphone is relatively new, and I thought that I would like the headphone it since the description on paper seemed like something I may thoroughly enjoy.  Not quite.  This is okay, because the Momentum 2.0 AEi is cheaper than the particular headphone, and seems to be more of a coherent sounding headphone as well.  What I couldn’t have imagined is how much it would be liked by the people that have listened to it.  Against the MH30 and MH40, it was my fiancée as well as my brother’s favorite headphone.
 
There is a hint of midbass lift, but not nearly the amount of the Momentum In-Ear, for comparison.  The m9XX opens up the warmth in a meaningful manner.  The bass is tight and controlled, with not a lot of overhang.  The midrange – you can feel the texture, smooth like a rock that has been formed by the constant waves of the ocean.  The treble is easy-going, and should never be a concern with regards to fatigue.  The soundstage and imaging has opened, gotten better, like a wine that has been aged for 20 years, yet this transformation simply took a connection to the m9XX.  The Momentum 2.0 AEi is a thoroughly engaging involvement with the m9XX.
 
HIFIMAN HE1000

 
If I could describe what I am hearing with the HE1000 +Tidal + m9XX while listening to R.City’s Like This and R.City / Adam Levine’s Locked Away in one sentence, it would be the HE1000 is the personification of highly detailed, eerily spacious, utterly present transparency that is resolute and is effortlessly an immensely fine listen.  I am highly fortunate and grateful to have the ability to own this setup, and share it with whomever I meet in the world.
 
 
Closing remarks
 
Thanks to Grace Design for creating such an awesome DAC/amp and thanks to Will Bright and Massdrop for offering it at such an attainable price.  Thanks to @jude for not only bringing the glorious Grace Design x Massdrop DAC/Amp to our attention, but I would like to thank him for everything that he has done with regards to bringing the world of music and people together, one conversation at a time.
 
Thank you for reading, I appreciate every last one of you.
 
 
Grace Design x Massdrop m9XX DAC/Amp Specifications
 
THD+N at Maximum Volume, 1kHz, 22Hz-22kHz BW
0dBFS In, +14dBV Out = <0.002%
 
Intermodulation Distortion SMTPE/DIN 4:1 50Hz, 7kHz
@1.0V out, no load = <0.008%
@1.0V out, 32 Ω load = <0.009%
 
Frequency Response +/-3dB
Fs=96kHz = 0.5-45.9kHz
 
Dynamic Range
20-22kHz bandwidth = 112dB
20-22kHz bandwidth and A weighting filter = 115dB
 
Output Noise
20-22kHz, volume=0-90 = -106dBV
A weighting filter, volume = 0-90 = -109dBV
20-22kHz, volume=90.5-99.5 = -96dBV
A weighting filter, volume = 90.5-99.5 = -98dBV
 
Crosstalk
100Hz = <107dB
1kHz = <98dB
20kHz = <72dB
 
Attenuation Range = 0 to -99dB, 0.5dB steps
 
Channel Tracking Accuracy = +/-0.05dB
 
Maximum Output Level = +14dBV (5.1V)
 
Impedances
Headphone Output = 0.08 Ω
Line Output 47.5 = Ω
 
THD+N
1kHz, -1dBFS, (0dBFS = +20dBu), 20-22kHz bandwidth = 0.0006%
 
Dynamic Range
20-22kHz bandwidth, 0dBFS = +20dBu (AES17 filter) = 117dB
20-22kHz bandwidth, 0dBFS = +20dBu (A-weighted) = 119dB
 
Input Lock Range
TOSLINK = 96kHz +/-1300Hz
USB = 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192kHz
 
Power Consumption
Max, High Power mode = 8.0W
Max, Low Power mode = 2.5W
 
Dimensions = 4” x 5.25” x 1.8”
 
Headphone Output Power
 

 
 
Massdrop has been on a serious roll as of late, releasing audiophile/audio enthusiast products within the last few months that are not only amazing listens but are adequately priced as well.  Massdrop created a collaborative result with $199 AKG – the AKG K7XX, helped to design the $99 CEntrance DACport Slim DAC/Amp combo, helped to design the $499 Grace Design x Massdrop m9XX DAC/Amp, and now, helped to design the Fostex x Massdrop TH-X00 premium reference headphone.  Fostex has been creating headphones since 1949 and the construction of their headphones is top-notch, so to have Massdrop collaborate with a company as well-versed as Fostex is a consummated marriage made in audio heaven.
 
 
 
Introduction
 
My journey to the TH-X00 was an eye-opening experience.  I listened to the Fostex TH-900 at the SchiitShow a few months ago, and liked the presentation out of my QP1R.  I was then told that Massdrop - who was in attendance – had a Fostex and Massdrop collaborative headphone available for listening and was gathering audio enthusiast feedback.  I placed the TH-X00 on my head, listened to my demo track, and was frozen.  I played a few other tracks and all that I could say was “WOW”.  “Wow…wow.  This sounds really good.  The bass is ridiculously good.  Everything sounds so crisp, and the bass!  …How much will this go for?” We are looking at pricing it at around $400 shipped.  “What? Oh man!  That is a crazy price, everyone should get this one!”
 
Ever since that day, I have been communicating with everyone at Massdrop that I knew, and kept communicating with Will Bright, mastermind with the collaborative effort and fruition of the TH-X00.  It seriously did not matter what the subject was, and Will can attest to this – but I tried to add mention of the TH-X00 into the conversation.  It could be about the DACport Slim.  I will throw a mention of the TH-X00.  It could be about the m9XX.  I will indicate how much I want to listen to the TH-X00 again.  I discussed the design of the cups (which will be covered a little later), and just plain how much I loved how it sounded.  I thank Will for supplying a headphone that is not only one of my favorite headphones that I own, but one of my favorite audio equipment apparatuses that I have every listened to in my life thus far.
 
Since this is a drop that will be available starting 9am EST on the 27th of November 2015 (on Friday) and will cost $399.99 shipped in the United States.  International shippers can use a forwarding partner for an additional charge of $15.  Here is additional info from Massdrop with regards to international shipping (if you live outside the United States):
 
Because of strict distribution agreements, Massdrop cannot sell-or-ship this product outside the United States. Understanding that there is demand for this product outside of the US, we have negotiated exclusive pricing with a freight forwarding service to help certain individuals join this drop. If you join, please understand that you are purchasing this product and it will be delivered to a US address. It will then be processed for international shipping by a third-party forwarding company. Tracking will be provided.
 
At check-out, international orders will be charged $15 for the third party freight forwarding service. You will need to input your shipping address as per a normal drop.
 
I remember paying around that price when I shipped a Japanese-release-only G-Shock watch to my doorstep, so for Massdrop to charge $15 for a heavier and larger box to an international shipper is truly remarkable in my opinion.
 
 
 
 
 
All TH-X00s purchased in the first drop will arrive well before Christmas.
 
All TH-X00s are individually serialized and the first 250 purchasers in the TH-X00 drop are guaranteed a serial number below 300.
 
This review will go into detail about the TH-X00, but I will also include solutions, as you have hopefully watched the in-depth video review of Jude’s video in the TH-X00 review thread, here.  What solutions?  As the review thread took off, people were discussing the pads, and the cable was mentioned as well.  I took apart the TH-X00 to look for a solution for included cable if people would want to replace or change it and will be showing how to perform the replacement further in the review.
Let’s go on the journey together to audio bliss…
 
The TH-X00 paired with the Grace Design x Massdrop m9XX
  
 
The TH-X00 paired with the Questyle Audio QP1R

 
 
Audio equipment used in the review
 
DAC/Amps
 
CEntrance DACport Slim: $99 shipped in the United States
Grace Design x Massdrop m9XX DAC/Amp: $499 shipped in the United States
 
Headphones
 
 
Fostex x Massdrop TH-X00: $399 shipped in the United States
Fostex x Massdrop TH-X00 Ebony: $499 shipped in the United States
Fostex x Massdrop TH-X00 Purpleheart: $449 shipped in the Unitied States
HIFIMAN HE1000: $2,999
Master & Dynamic MH30: $349
Master & Dynamic MH40: $399
Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 AEi: $349.95
 
Mentioned headphones
 
Audeze LCD-XC: $1,799
Fostex TH-600: $599.99
Fostex TH-900: $1,499.99
MrSpeakers ETHER C: $1,499.99 - $1,649.99 (1/4” 10’ and 4-Pin XLR 10’ DUM Cable)
 
Sources
 
iPhone 6 (Space Gray, 128GB):  $849.99 or $399.99 with a 2-Year Contract
Questyle Audio QP1R Golden and Space Gray: $899 USD 
 
Software Applications Used
 
JRiver Media Center 20: $49.98
Sound Level Analyzer: $4.99
TIDAL HiFi – Lossless: $20 per month or $10 with student discount
 
Screwdriver
 
Picquic 06102 Teeny Turner 7 Bit Micro Driver (Assorted Colors): Currently $7.91 (Amazon)
 
 
Rewind
 
A few months ago when I listened to TH-X00, I wrote impressions and added it to my QP1R review.  Here’s the excerpt:
 
The QP1R drives the upcoming Massdrop TH-X00 to very loud levels.  So much so that at the highest volumes on High gain it can clip, only when low synthetic bass emits. Way too loud to tolerate even for a few seconds. At normal to loud listening volumes there are no issues of clipping.  These are lovely headphones that embody ridiculously thunderous bass.  The massaging effect of the bass may be too much for people, but if you are a lover of bass, these are the ones for you.  This is one headphone to put on your short list regarding subbass as I haven’t heard anything that has as much bass slam aside from the TH-900.  The TH-X00 is for listeners seeking a clear sound, with copious amounts of thunderous bass, a coherent midrange and a non-fatiguing treble.  It’s all good under the mahogany wood!
 
 
Fast Forward
 
When I was able to listen to my own TH-X00, I was happy that the version that I heard a few months ago from what I remember did not sound slightly or significantly different to my ears, and that alone made me a very happy audio enthusiast.  The bass, the midrange, the treble, are all cohesive and sublime.  Thank goodness, I said to myself, as I breathed a sigh of relief.
 
 
Build and aesthetics
 
According to Will, no structural components of the frame are plastic.  Everything is magnesium alloy. Only plastic part is the washers on either side of the earcups where the yolks attach.  This is self-lubricating plastic to avoid the nasty squeaking that people experienced with the Denon D series.  The magnesium alloy looks stately and splendid.   The earcups are made of mahogany with a clear, glossy finish.  This is natural hardwood that's been turned on a lathe, CNC’d out, and coated with a clear, glossy finish.
 
Mahogany has a lot of natural variation in the color and every set is one-of-a-kind.  Most of the pairs fall into a medium brown color, some may be quite dark, and a couple could be on the lighter brown side. Some pairs may have natural grain variations like burl or knots (very low probability).  My pair is a medium brown color and the glossy finish leads to different variations of the medium brown color hue, depending on the angle you are holding the cups against ambient lighting.  I discussed with Will that maybe another version can have a limited edition color (possibly even less so than the 2000 unit drop limit the TH-X00 currently has on the Massdrop site).  I was thinking maybe a carbon fiber (I really enjoyed the maroon-carbon-type of cup color design the pre-production ETHER C used before going with the all-carbon cup color design for the production models.
 
Here’s a picture of the pre-production ETHER C model

 
The magnesium alloy construction of the TH-X00 helps with reducing overall weight, as 12.3 oz (350 g) is a very respectable weight and weighs less to considerably less than most higher-fidelity headphones currently available in the market.
 
  
 
The headband of the TH-X00 has a minimal approach as it is not huge and fluffy like some other models, but has a curve that minimizes the padding needed for the TH-X00 to feel comfortable.
 

 
The “TH-X00” logo and “Massdrop” logo underneath are silkscreened on the inside of the headband above the left earcup.  The “Do Not Trash” and “CE” logos are on top of the serial number on the inside of the headband above the right earcup.  Left and right markings are on the rear of the headband – making it very easy to tell which side your TH-X00 is: if you do not see the L and R markings, turn the TH-X00 around – simple as that!
 
"L" marking with logos on left side of TH-X00

 

 
The earpads are made of eggshell protein that allows the headphones to be breathable, as real leather is not breathable.
 

 
The size is just right, not too small and not too large.  For those with small heads, the TH-X00 may be a little large fitting.
 
The TH-X00s are made in China, as are the TH-600s, and most components of the TH-900.
 
 
Fit and Comfort
 
From top to bottom the TH-X00 exudes comfort:
 
The headband is my favorite fitting band that I have felt out of the headphones that I listened to with regards to comfort, mainly because the curve is engineered as such so it only puts pressure on the top and a portion of the curve of a human’s head.  As mentioned above these are not the smallest headphones, but also not the largest - so finding a position shouldn’t be very difficult at all to achieve.  There are a total of 8 articulating positions available and are best fitted for those that have larger heads.  I have a medium to large-sized noggin, and one adjustment “click” from fully pressed in is all that I need for comfort.
 
The earcup housing can swivel a good 45 degrees outward from the front on both sides – to the left on the near side of the left earcup, and to the right on the near side of the right earcup.  The headband is elastic enough to significantly allow the earcup housings to be pulled away from each other about 90 degrees.  The magnesium housing is very sturdy and allows for steadfast and confident swiveling.
 

 
The earpads, since they are made out of eggshell protein, are breathable and very comfortable.  The earpads are angled from wider from the back and less wide from the front.  The earpads can adjust position by twisting the earpad (not twisting the earpad base) relative to the earcup housing itself– which is an awesome feature to dial in additional individual comfort.  The earpad opening is shaped like an oval and should fit most ears.   As soon as I saw it for the first time, the Master and Dynamic MH40’s stock earpads came to mind, since it uses a similar oval earpad opening design.  Since I have the Master & Dynamic MH40 I was able to measure them both.
 
TH-X00 earpad on left, MH40 earpad on right

 
The TH-X00’s earpad opening’s measurements are: Length = 2 3/8 in, Width = 1 3/8, Depth = 7/16 in (Thinnest side/front of head) and 1 in (Thickest side/rear of head).
The MH40’s earpad opening’s measurements are: Length =2 3/8 in, Width = 1 3/8, Depth = 12/16 (3/4) in.
 
Even though both headphone earpad opening’s measurements are very similar in length, width and depth, the fact that the TH-X00 earpads are angled and allow adjustability with its position seems to create an overall larger opening and more comfortable experience than the MH40’s earpad opening that has zero earpad twisting adjustability.  Also, a simple twist of the earpad’s base, and the earpad will come off from the earcup housing for easy replacement if need be. 
 
Here's another comparison, this time with the 1MORE MK801 earpad

 
1MORE MK801 Earpad Dimensions
Inner Diameter: Approx. 33 mm/ 1 5/16 in 
Outer Diameter: Approx. 66 mm/ 2 5/8 in 
Depth: Approx. 13 mm/ 1/2 in
Thickness: Approx. 20 mm/ 25/32 in 
 
TH-X00 Earpad Dimensions
Inner Diameter: Approx. 35 mm/ 1 3/8 in 
Outer Diameter: Approx. 103 mm/ 4 1/8 in 
Depth: Approx. 11mm/ 7/16 in (Thinnest side/front of head) and 25mm/ 1 in (Thickest side/rear of head).
Thickness (Thinnest side/front of head): Approx. 19 mm/ 3/4 in 
Thickness (Thickest side/rear of head): Approx. 28 mm/ 1 1/8 in
 
The stock earpads are very important to the sound signature of the TH-X00 - If you suspect the stock earpads may be too small for your ears, you can purchase compatible angled pads such as the Alpha pads or HM5 pads, as suggested by Will.
 
Mr Speaker Alpha pads (genuine lamb-leather: https://mrspeakers.com/shop/uncategorized/alpha-pads-genuine-lamb-leather/.
 
Brainwavz HM5 velour memory foam pads: http://www.amazon.com/Brainwavz-Velor-Memory-Replacements-Earpads/dp/B00MFDX4YO.

 
Since the headband is easy to articulate, earcup housing is easily malleable and the stock earpads are breathable, this all in my opinion leads to a not very tight fitting headphone, and as a result I would say the TH-X00 is more of a semi-open back headphone than a closed back headphone since there is leakage on both ends of the audio experience – you can hear around your surrounds pretty easily when the volume is low, and others can hear the music you are listening to if you have the volume at least a low-medium and higher level.
 
 
 
 
 
The stock cable is gorgeous with the right amount of sheen, thickness, and embodies a tight sheath and braiding around oxygen free copper.  The black, slightly glossy cable is 10 ft long and has a ¼ in plug.  Since the cable is very long compared to most other headphone manufacturers, it is best for home use than traveling around unless you coil the cabling and use twist-ties or Velcro cable fasteners.   The TH-X00 will come with a 1/4 to 1/8 inch adapter for devices that use the 1/8 in/3.5 mm jacks.  For those who may have an issue with the length of the cable, a cable replacement may be in order.  The directions regarding how to replace the cable are in the 

How to replace cable​

 
 
The weight of the headphone is a welcome reprieve from a lot of the higher fidelity headphones available in the market.  Not to pick on anyone *cough LCD-XC, cough, hack!*, but a heavy headphone like that one may be a factor for people to consider a lighter weight headphone, even if the sound of it is very enticing.  I could listen to the TH-X00 for hours just based on the lightweight properties – at only 350 grams without the cable, the headphone is enjoyable and comfortable for long listening sessions or walking around the neighborhood without any significant neck strain either.
 
 
Once you factor in the fact the TH-X00 is relatively lightweight, earpad and earcup customization (Lawton, etc.), nicely curved headband, and the fact the stock earpad are eggshell protein and not real leather with leads to breathability, the TH-X00 is a tremendously comfortable headphone, akin to the comfort level of the lighter weight Sennheiser Momentum 2.0.
 
 
How to replace cable
 
Below are the steps regarding how to replace the cable (please click photos for larger versions):
 
Twist earpad base counter-clockwise and remove earpad.

 
Use the Teeny Turner and use the Philips bit to unscrew the four screws on top of the earcup housing.

 
Place the removed screws in a safe area (on top of the earpad or inside a clear baggie is sufficient)

 
Remove the four screws inside of the earcup housing with a skinny screwdriver such as the Teeny Turner

 
The shorter screws are for the outside of the earcup housing, the longer screws are for the inside of the earcup housing

 
Keep taking out the screws – also the Teeny Turner has a magnet on the end of each bit so it’s easier to remove the inside housing screws, as shown here

 
Once the earcup is removed you’ll get this – the inside of the earcup

 
Here’s the cable connections – two leads

 
Desolder and solder in a replacement cable
 
How it looks without the earcup and earpad

 
Cable threading location (2 angles)
  
 
The earpad with screws on top, earcup, Teeny Turner and opened TH-X00 earcup housing

 
Make sure the earcup housing’s slots line up with the TH-X00 housing area rivets (4 angles)
      
 
Screw in the inside screws

 
If the driver and earcup falls off, no worries, you can tighten the screws more and push the driver and earcup into the housing area rivets

 
Tighten the screws on top of the earcup housing

 
Replace earpad and tighten

 
The earcup and magnesium alloy retainer should be flush and taut with no play when all is screwed in

 
 
Disclaimer and hearing factors
 
The TH-X00 sound impressions are mainly for anyone wanting a point of reference regarding how they more or less pair with the iPhone 6, QP1R and m9XX.  Other sources may vary slightly or greatly as the TH-X00 sounds different enough with these three sources to warrant mentioning.  The TH-X00 will have a warmer and pronounced effect in the overall bass region when pairing with the iPhone 6.  The TH-X00 will have a supremely detailed with slight treble and bass with extended detail when paired with the QP1R.  The TH-X00 will have a more balanced and natural approach to its presentation when paired with the m9XX.
 
We all hear differently, and our experiences with regards to how our interpretation of what we hear vary greatly.  Some factors that come to mind (and not limited), are: 
 
Your inner ear and skull’s overall composition: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/the-unique-vibrations-of-your-skull-affect-how-you-hear-music-654940/?no-ist.
 
Hearing loss as we age, also known as presbycusis: https://www.ohio.edu/news/months/nov1998/111.html,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presbycusis.
 
Heredity, noise trauma, dietary habits, smoking, hypertension, atherosclerosis, are other factors that affect people’s overall hearing ability.
 
 
Sound impressions
 
I won’t go into crazy detail, but just know these are some serious headphones.  They are fun, but can also be relaxing and if you listen, the detail retrieval is incredible.  Vocals shine through and the bass is elegantly presented.  The midrange of the presentation that flows down to the bass, are the two stars of your own show.  Articulate, slightly weighty but incessantly smooth would be what I would describe the presentation to embody.  The entire sound signature is enthralling and worth a listen.  It may not be a recommended headphone for those who are looking for a more neutral sounding signature, but for those that want a creamy smooth, enthralling sound with loads of supremely high quality bass, you can look no further than the TH-X00.  These are overall my favorite headphone aside from the much more expensive HE1000.  For the price – oh my goodness the price, you might as well purchase one.  I always say, especially for mostly expensive-for-what-you-get audio equipment, to purchase it and if you don’t like it, a friend or loved one will adore your gift to them!  Wait – this is supposed to be sound impressions!  I know…my apologies.  I just really want everyone (or at least all 2000) people who purchase the TH-X00 to give them a listen.  My sound impressions may not match yours absolutely and completely, but there is really no denying the enveloping bass and thoroughly engaging midrange with the smooth-as-silk treble.  For the price - again…for the price, should be enough to run to the Massdrop site with your fingers or thumbs and give them a purchase.  Back to the sound impressions: paradise.  Okay a few more words of encouragement.
 
The treble has been smoothed/tamed from the TH-900, and listening back to back it shows.  The treble of the TH-X00 is comparatively smooth, but is non-fatiguing and quite easy to listen with an increase of extended comfortable listening time as a result.  I enjoy treble that isn’t extended at times, and the TH-X00 does a great job in this regard, no additional installation pads are necessary to tame treble that wasn’t an inherent concern in the first place.
 
The midrange can be daydream inducing.  The midrange takes center stage, but lets the rest of the cast perform sufficiently and to the best of their abilities as well.  Male and female vocals are truly alive, instruments pluck, strum and wale with fabulous aplomb.  The midrange is quite an amazing feat, especially when factoring in the technical abilities of the over one tesla of magnetic flux density.
 
The area where the magnetic flux density would come into play would surely be the TH-X00’s bass.  The bass may be stated to be lessened from the TH-900, but it is still the thunderous bass that I love about the Fostex TH-900 as well.  The TH-X00, aside from the TH-900 has the most favorite sounding quality bass that I have ever heard from a headphone.  Deep, hard hitting, but not obnoxiously so.   Tight and controlled with ever so slight reverberation and decay means you can feel the bass as well.  Add in equalization and possibly an amp with bass boost options and you have an audiophile quality basshead headphone in your hands.  Even without the EQ and bass boost, the bass is magnificent.   The bass may not be as accentuated as the Master & Dynamic MH30, but the bass is controlled and tighter sounding when comparing the two.  Addicting – enough for me to think of it for months after listening to the TH-X00 for the first time months ago.
 
The soundstage is pretty immense for its 50mm driver and stock large earcups that don’t have the tightest of seals.  We are not talking about a seemingly massive soundstage of the open back and much larger drivers of the HIFIMAN HE1000, but the TH-X00 does a better than average job with regards to conveying a believably natural soundstage.  This will be a thick sounding soundstage for some sources, and wide and invigorating for other sources.  Paired with the QP1R the soundstage of the TH-X00 seems to widen compared to most if not all sources that I’ve listened to.  Pinpointing instrument placements in most genres is an easy task, and the detail is natural sounding with smoothness attached to the spatial facets of the TH-X00.
 
Overall, the auditory presentation of the TH-X00 is lovely and is easy to toe-tap or relax - kick back your feet if you are so inclined – it’s a jack of all trades and master at most.
 
 
The TH-X00 Modification
 
I have been enjoying the immensely engaging and palpable sound of the TH-X00 for quite a while, but ever since I laid my eyes on the mahogany headphone, I thought the affixed, non-detachable cable was a little too long for my wants and needs at 10 feet.  I immediately wanted a shorter cable, and thought that making the TH-X00 modified with connectors would be a satisfying experience. 
 
Where do I start?  For starters I have seen modifications but haven't gone through any type of headphone modifications myself - until this process. I knew for sure that I wanted a shorter cable, and a detachable cable connector in the TH-X00 that did not involve making any physical modifications to the wooden earcups or structural housing as well. 
 
First, I contacted Ted Allen (@teds headfood) from Headphone Lounge to find out about headphone connectors that could possibly be used for the TH-X00 since I knew Ted made some immaculate headphone cables (I own a couple of his Silver Litz cables - simply amazing). He recommended the HIFIMAN SMC connectors for the modifications after discussing connectors such as 2.5 and 3.5mm terminations. 
 
During this time, I contacted Brian Goto (@Pingupenguins) from BTG Audio, because I know that he makes great sounding cables (I own a couple of his Starlight cables). On his website I saw that he offered the detachable cable modification of the TH-900, using HD 800-type connectors, but it looked like the earcups were physically modified, so that took that possibility out of the equation for me. 
 
Wanting more input of what terminations I could use, I contacted Brandon Peterek (@PETEREK) from AudMod on Etsy, and after the first couple of exchanges, I knew he was a person I wanted to do business with, not only because he has a lot of experience modifying a multitude of headphones (check his thread (http://www.head-fi.org/t/779584/peterek-formerly-ccaspertfg-mod-cable-thread/) for various headphones he has modified), but because his communication is fastidious, direct, courteous and eloquent as well.  What I like about people that I communicate with is that they keep me updated about what's going on.  All of my parts took a while to come in (the DHC Nucleotide V3 cable was the main culprit), as well as the holidays played a part in the overall delay, but Mr. Peterek keep me in the loop what was happening.  When I had an issue with the final product, Mr. Peterek was immediate and fixed the issue without any worries.  It's one thing to be courteous when everything goes right before the sale.  However Mr. Peterek was just as courteous and helpful even after the sale and after I received my headphones back from him -- this is what truly makes his customer service first-rate.
 
With regard to the modification of the TH-X00, Mr. Peterek recommended that I go with the SMC connectors since there won't need to be any modifications done to the wooden earcups. The HD 800 connectors can be installed, but there would be physical modifications that would been to be done (cutting into the wood and frame) - I'll stick with the SMC connectors. 
 
I wanted to use the stock cable as well so I had him terminate the headphone connectors of the stock cable to SMC so I could use the 10ft stock cable with the modified TH-X00. 
 
I wanted a shorter than stock cable that was 5 ft in length, copper, and terminated to SMC connectors.  Mr. Peterek suggested DHC copper "Nucleotide" (24 AWG OCC copper) to be used for the additional cable.  I have had first-hand experience of listening to a DJ Khaled H6 connected to a stock cable and then exchanging with a DHC cable - hearing a positive difference between the two.  I did not hesitate to request the DHC Nucleotide.  
 
At this point I contemplated if I should keep the TH-X00 stock cable from the driver to the SMC connector or replace it with DHC Nucleotide.  After much deliberation with myself, I decide that going with upgraded wire was an option that I should go for, since I wanted to have a seamless integration from the driver to the Nucleotide 5 ft cable that I would use most all of the time.  I also wanted the thinnest 3.5mm plug that I can find, so I chose the quality 3.5mm DHC Elite mini plug instead of the slightly thicker in diameter Eidolic plugs that I am used to.
 
The materials that are used for the modification are:
 
HIFIMAN SMC connectors for the TH-X00 and HIFIMAN SMC connectors for the stock cable and DHC Nucleotide cable.
 
DHC Nucleotide V3 24awg stranded OCC copper: http://www.doublehelixcables.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=2.
 
DHC Elite 3.5mm mini plug: http://www.doublehelixcables.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=136.
 
 
Impressions
 
Simply amazing.  The TH-X00 sounds as blissful as I remember, and the added benefit of the detachable cable modification is almost a necessity for my wants and needs.  With the addition of the 5 ft Nucleotide cable, I can use the TH-X00 much easier as a portable headphone if I so choose, since I will not have to worry about the management of a 10 ft non-detachable cable.  The soldering (Mr. Peterek uses high silver content solder) and the SMC connectors that are connected to the TH-X00 are gloriously beautiful.  The 5 ft cable feels supple and the braiding is something to behold - it often elicits people to touch and look at the cable in awe.  The DHC cable utilizes no Y-connect splitter, so the overall look of the cable is more subtle, and weighs less as well, especially compared to the sleeve-wrapped and thicker stock cable.  The clear over-molding of the SMC connectors at the DHC cable, stock cable (black for left and red for right) and black over-molding at the 3.5mm plug of the DHC cable is tasteful, as PETEREK is blazon over the length of the over-molding.
 
This is the result of my research and Mr. Peterek's excellent work:
 
Reterminated Stock Cable with Modified TH-X00 in the Background

 
Closeups of the DHC Nucleotide V3 Cable

 
Epic Braiding

 
DHC Nucleotide V3 Cable with Clear and Black Over-Moldings

 
Modified TH-X00 Pictures

 

 

 

 

 
DHC Nucleotide V3 Cable Connected to Modified TH-X00

 
Another View

 
The Setup

 
Driver to SMC Connector Connected with DHC Nucleotide V3 Cable 

 
Showing the High Silver Content Solder

 
I sincerely thank Mr. Peterek for the services provided, and I wholly recommend @PETEREK to anyone wanting modifications performed to their headphones.
 
If you would like to experience the same modifcations as I, here are the prices for the services (you can email/PM @PETEREK if you have any questions as well):
 
Detachable cable SMC modification and reterminating stock cable: $110
 
5 ft DHC Nucleotide V3 Cable: $105
 
You can request that Mr. Peterek use higher quality wire between the connectors and drivers for an extra cost.
 

---

 
E-MU Ebony earcups (Refers to my TH-X00 Mahogany changed to E-MU earcups, with DHC internal wiring)

 
I had the chance to purchase the E-MU Ebony Earcups when they were available at this year's Canlanta, in Atlanta, Georgia.  My friend let me choose the cup style I wanted - one pair was more subtle-looking with no lighter brown swirl, and one pair was a lighter brown swirled version.  I chose the lighter brown swirl version because I thought it looked more interesting and unique.
 
The E-MU Ebony earcups are heavier than the Mahogany, and may be noticed once you change to the E-MU Earcups from the Mahogany.  Some may barely feel a difference, and some may really feel the diffrence.  Initially I did feel a difference since I could clearly feel the difference in weight when both earcups were off, but got used to the weight after wearing it and carrying it around after a couple of days.  The E-MU Ebony embodies a bassy and textured signature, in addition to the warm and intimate sound Mahogany owners have come to love.  Compared to the Mahogany, the E-MU Ebony has noticable bass response, but may seem slightly boomier in sound, but still sounding very good.  The E-MU Ebony is a good choice if you want even more bass compared to your Mahogany earcups, but may experience slightly less clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum as a result.
 
 
TH-X00 Ebony

 
It is no secret, I really adore the TH-X00 Mahogany - ever since I heard the Mahogany at the SchiitShow last year, I knew it was:
 
One of the best sounding headphones that I've listened to that taylored to my sonic preferences, and:
 
A headphone that a lot of people were going to enjoy - especially for the price-to-performance ratio.
 
After changing the Mahogany earcups to the E-MU Ebony earcups, I heard the differences, and liked the increased bass response, but didn't necessarily enjoy the perceived slight loss in ulitmate resolution. 
 
I received the TH-X00 Ebony headphone to audition, several weeks after listening to my TH-X00 outfitted with the E-MU Ebony earcups.  The TH-X00 Ebony earcups look very dark like the darkest of brown or black, but, when close, you can see not only the lighter brown wood grain and patterns, but you see subtle, classy, yet substantial detail that pictures aren't able to show with superlative success.  Weight between the E-MU Ebony earcups and the TH-X00 Ebony earcups is less obvious than the Mahogany compared to the E-MU Ebony earcups.  The TH-X00 Ebony is slightly heavier than the E-MU Ebony earcups and the TH-X00 Ebony earcups sound and feel denser than the E-MU Ebony earcups.  I was able to hear the difference that the Ebony made over the E-MU Ebony earcups.  Some may think that the difference is from dusk til night, but I hear enough of a difference that it was afternoon to night, to my ears.  The TH-X00 Ebony emits a more smooth sound, with more smooth transitions between all areas of the sound, with bass that was palpable and full of quality texture, but hits just below utter-basshead levels.  Detail is high, transparency and air is further perceived, and you may feel that the TH-X00 has reached another level of performance.  Some might feel the difference isn't that much, and some may feel the difference is immense, as many factors will influence how and what we hear. 
 
 
By now, I was certain I enjoyed the TH-X00 Ebony more than the E-MU Ebony earcups.  I needed to listen to a Mahogany - and as soon as possible, so I could listen to all three headphones at one listening session to arrive at a better understanding of the three earcups.  I drove my friends @ejong7 and @shiorisekine to Schiit Audio's headquarters (I took them to Mr Speakers and UE the day before - a lot of driving!), and I knew there was a chance I could possibly listen to Schiit Audio's TH-X00 Mahogany because I remember seeing Ms. Martin carrying a pair at this year's CanJam SoCal.  After having a very productive and informative tour from Mr. Stoddard, he had a Mahogany on a headphone stand on his desk.
 
Me - "Yes! You've got one!  Thank goodness.  May I please listen to it?"
 
Mr. Stoddard - "Sure!"
 
Me - "Thanks - I need to listen to yours so I can compare it to this." (I pull out the TH-X00 Ebony)
 
Mr. Stoddard - "Oh, nice!  Should I get it -- how do you like it?"
 
I let him know my thoughts, but then I said: "If you want one, make sure to not wait too long to get one, since there will be a 1000 made for the drop".
 
I listened to and compared the three headphones at the same time:
 
After listening to all three back to back to back, I will say that all three bring sonic flavors to the table that may be preferred over the other.  I feel that there is no one better headphone since each one can be seen as being the best based on different people that listened to the headphones.  With that said, I feel the TH-X00 Ebony is my overall favorite, since it emits a more smoother and detailed sound, with enough bass to satisfy most all people of the world - except for those that must have TACTION-level bass response and visceral performance.  However, the Mahogany is around 100 grams lighter in weight than the TH-X00 Ebony, and doesn't sound completely different to the Mahogany - I can be happy with the Mahogany since I adore how it sounds.  I can also see wanting to listen to the Ebony as well since it does sound more resolute to my ears.  The Mahogany is also less expensive than the TH-X00 Ebony and E-MU Ebony (the price of the earcups) as well.  If you already own a Mahogany, love the sound and don't have the want to purchase the TH-X00 Ebony, then you may have answered your potential purchase question(s) right there.  If you want a different take on the Mahogany sound, want more resolution, air, delicacy and sweetness, then the Ebony, in my opinion, is the ticket.
 
 
I'll be listening to the Purpleheart soon with the Ebony, and I'll add my impressions and comparisons in the next section of the review.  I will also have the TH-X00 Ebony in tow for this Saturday's Wikia Meet in San Francisco, California, so if you are attending and want to listen, see me, and you can listen to your heart's content!
 
For now, the Ebony is the pinnacle of my TH-X00 journey, one that I am happy to be a part of.
 
 
 
TH-X00 Purpleheart at the Wikia SF Head-Fi Meet
 
I was able to listen to all four TH-X00's at the Wikia Head-Fi Meet in San Francisco, CA and exhibit all of the headphones with the help of @CEE TEE bringing a Purpleheart to the meet; thanks for that!  The Purpleheart and all TH-X00 variations were exhibited in a corner of a large table in the Questyle room.  Thanks to @bSquared64 for providing the space!
 
 
I spent some time to listen back to back with the Purpleheart and the Mahogany, Ebony, and my E-MU Ebony as well, and even though the sonic differences were not very difficult to distinguish, it further made it really tough to choose a favorite headphone of the bunch.  I know - it may not be what you want to hear ("just pick one!") but it is much more than that.  Every headphone variation had a lot of pros and very few, if at all, cons.  
 
 
The Purpleheart is the bassiest of the four, and extends into the treble as well; also weighing less than the Ebony.  This is the choice if you want the most slamming bass of the TH-X00 variants and possibly the closest to the TH-900 sound signature of the four, based on my multiple extended auditions of the TH-900.  
 

 
The Ebony is the smoothest sounding of the four, but is also the heaviest, with very quality bass and very good reverberating rumble.  This is one that you want to get if you can't foresee minding the extra weight compared to the other TH-X00 variants, and are seeking for the most smooth and possibly resolving TH-X00 in the midrange and midbass areas of the frequency spectrum.
 

 
The E-MU Ebony is a more raw form of the Mahogany and Ebony since it has slightly less detail than the Mahogany and Ebony.  The E-MU emits a little less bass than the Purpleheart, and is a good choice if you want a little more texture and true grit than the Mahogany.
 
Using the Mahogany as a metric and a base, it is the more balanced sound of all four, with very good bass, creamy mids and delectable highs.  
 
Compared to the Purpleheart, the Mahogany is the more buttoned-down approach to a fun sound.  The Purpleheart is the all-out effort to slam with the best of them.  
 
When you listen to the Purpleheart and E-MU Ebony, you can hear the difference, as the Purpleheart is the slightly bassier headphone and the E-MU Ebony is the more textured headphone.  
 
Listening to the Purpleheart and Ebony back to back is where you start to have an appreciation for both of the inherent sound signatures, and that's where it gets to be that much more difficult to choose one that ticks all of your boxes.  Now, I'm not saying to purchase two (or am I), but the reason why I have multiple headphones is that I have different moods.  If I'm in the mood for a treble heavy but beautiful sound, I won't pick up a TH-X00, I'll pick up my ENIGMAcoustics Dharma D1000.  If I'm in the mood for an immensely immaculate presentation of audio, I'll pick up my HIFIMAN HE1000 and become lost in the music.  If I'm in the mood for a smooth, fun take on sound, I'll pick up the TH-X00 Ebony and cherish it.  If I'm in the mood for a bassy, V-signature, very vivacious sound, then I'll pick up the Purpleheart.
 
Now you've read about the four TH-X00 variants, and one is not better than the other because each headphone has its own qualities that have been brought to the table.  Choose the one that fits your mood:
 
Purpleheart - most quantity of bass, most fun sound.

Ebony - smoothest sound with quality bass.

E-MU - slightly gritty with slightly rolled-off treble and loads of bass.

Mahogany - tried and true, balanced in all spectrums with engaging bass lift.
 
Or just catch 'em all.
 
 
To hype or not to hype
 
If you believe in hype, then all aboard the hype train!  If you don’t believe in hype, no worries, the TH-X00 is not hype.  It is quite simply the truth, a headphone that sounds utterly marvelous in its presentation, no hype (positive or negative) is necessary at all.  This is one headphone that a lot of people are going to enjoy.  I usually do not make claims like that, but I believe it – the TH-X00 will be a staple for audio enthusiasts and casual listeners alike to love for many years to come, in my opinion. 
 
 
Is the TH-X00 worth it?
 
Out of all of the headphones that I have listened to, from the free headphones you get when you board planes, all the way up to the $16,000 and more original Orpheus, for $399, there may never be a headphone again that emits a sound that the TH-X00 does, that may be worth multiple times the amount they are being sold for.  For $500 I would not bat an eye. $1,000 even.  Seriously.  For the $399 it is a startling price for the beautiful sound the TH-X00 produces.
 
 
 
Final thoughts
 
The TH-X00 is the closest to $399 perfection as you are going to get with regards to a headphone.  The TH-X00 expresses immersive presentation, excellent bass, smooth as velvet midrange, suave treble and a soundstage and detail that is above average because of the clarity of the frequencies presented to you.  What more can you ask for?  Add in the price and you should be sold.  Buy one, listen to it and enjoy for years to come.  If not, give it away to friend or loved one so they will like you and love you even more than they already do.
 
Specifications
 

1. Fostex x Massdrop
2. Closed-back design
3. 50 mm dynamic transducer
4. Magnesium alloy construction
5. Mahogany earcups, brilliant gloss finish
6. Leatherette earpads, matte black
7. Magnetic flux density: >1 tesla
8. Impedance: 25 ohms
9. Sensitivity: 94 dB/mW
10. Maximum input: 1,800 mW
11. Frequency response: 5–45,000 Hz
12. 10 ft (3 m) thick, braided Y cable
13. 1/4 in (6.3 mm) gold-coated stereo phone plug
14. Weight, without cable: 12.3 oz (350 g)
15. Weight, with cable: 17 oz (482 g)

 
Included
 

1. Carrying pouch
2. 2-year warranty
3. 1/4" to 1/8" adapter (for use with portable devices)

Tronsmart Onyx Ace Review

Thanks in advance to Tronsmart for providing the Onyx Ace and case free of charge for review.

Do you like the "thin pipe" design of Apple's AirPods Pro but not the exorbitant $250 price tag? We all know that there are a bunch of less-expensive alternatives. The Tronsmart Onyx Ace is another one, and these are at a great price.

I wore these for a few hours the other day while listening to my favorite podcast. How’s the sound quality? Very good, given the price. As long as you are able to obtain a good inner-ear seal (a requirement for most all earbuds like these), you'll be able to enjoy smooth and bass-forward audio with very good noise isolation.

After owning AirPods myself for about a month and then trying out the Ace, I’ve come to the conclusion that the Ace sounds similar to the AirPods Pro, and that’s a good thing, especially since price is almost too good to be true.

Other features are that the charging case uses USB-C and yields a total of 24 hours of play time. This is yet another example of a really awesome AirPods alternative at a fraction of the cost.

Price: $29.39 currently through the geekbuying.com site.

P.S. Feel free to DM me at my Instagram (moedawg140) if you’ve got any questions or inquiries.

This is also posted on my Instagram, here:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CFTsk2EB18V/

Tronsmart Apollo Bold Review


Thanks in advance to Tronsmart for providing the Apollo Bold free of charge for the review.

This is a very good Bluetooth in-ear headphone with good noise isolation. You’ve got an earphone with a comfortable fit, a smooth, balanced sound with a nice bass lift to it, and what I enjoy probably the most out of it, the ANC. There’s a marked difference with or without ANC enabled, and having ANC enabled allows me to enjoy whatever I’m listening to without having to crank up the volume to really hear what the person is trying to say (usually works best for podcasts for me). The AirPods Pro is $249 and features 35dB hybrid active noise cancelling. However...the Tronsmart Apollo Bold retails for $99.99 and features not only active noise cancelling, but 6 mics for 360 degree noise cancelling! Also, the Bold sounds a bit better to me than the AirPods Pro. Sounds like more features and a better sound in my opinion, for a lesser price? Sounds great to me!

All in all, for the price, the Apollo Bold is a great choice.

You can get the Apollo Bold through Amazon for $99.99 (There may be a coupon in there as well, if you search...)

P.S. Feel free to DM me at my Instagram (moedawg140) if you’ve got any questions or inquiries.

Also posted on my Instagram, here:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CFTtSfLBUHd/

 
 

 ​

Introduction
 
It has been such a vibrant time in the Massdrop landscape, as they have been able to create successful collaborations with respected manufacturers.  Massdrop and AKG with their smooth sounding K7XX.  Massdrop plus Fostex with their richly immaculate TH-X00.  Enough of a success to spawn a new TH-X00 variant that contains Purpleheart earcups, and delegating the old model to a new name: the TH-X00 Mahogany, to be able to differentiate between the two models. When I had a chance to listen to the new collaboration with HIFIMAN headphone, I jumped at the chance and feel honored to be considered.  Thanks to Christian, aka @CEE TEE, for the Massdrop x HIFIMAN HE350 in exchange of my honest opinion.  Also, congratulations to his new job with Massdrop as Audiophile Custom Products Manager!  Much success to Christian and thanks to @WillBright as well, bringing those who purchase Massdrop's audiophile products along the journey with you both, one person at a time. 
 
According to Massdrop:
 
In 2010, HiFiMAN released the HE-300, HE-500, and HE-6, a series of headphones that rivaled those from the world’s most established brands and redefined price-to-performance expectations in their respective categories.  This product line solidified the still-young company’s status as one of the most respected names in the audiophile community.
 
Today, we’re proud to announce the Massdrop x HiFiMAN HE-350, a custom product based on the company’s entry-level HE-300, which was eventually discontinued despite being a clear favorite for many.  This model has everything you loved about the original, plus a few awesome updates made in response to feedback and requests from the community.
 
With regards to the drop, there are a couple of weeks left, and will cost $99.99 shipped in the United States.  International shippers can use a forwarding partner for an additional charge of $15.  Here is additional info from Massdrop with regards to international shipping (if you live outside the United States):
 
Note: If you're an international customer looking to partner with a shipping forwarder, please read this FAQ.  At checkout, international orders will be charged $15 for the third-party freight-forwarding service. You will need to input your shipping address as per a normal drop.
 
Expected ship date is August 3, 2016.
 
Here’s a little more info as well from Massdrop:
 
The HE-350 uses entirely new dynamic drivers, different from those in the HE-300, resulting in a more neutral sound signature with less distortion and more detail.  We've also improved the cable connectors and plug, and updated the frame to HiFiMAN’s latest (and much lighter) structure.  We made the headband more comfortable for those long listening sessions, and changed the colorway from black and silver to a more understated black and gray.
 
Best of all, we’re able to offer the HE-350 at an even more accessible price point.  How accessible?  We’re talking $99.99 shipped to your door in the United States.  Developed in collaboration with our friends at HiFiMAN, this will become the entry-level audiophile headphone recommendation.
 
Let’s check out the HE350 and find out if it is detailed in presentation, constructed with thought and structured materials, and if I feel this will become the entry-level audiophile headphone recommendation.  Come along the journey with me to audio bliss…
 
 
Audio equipment used in the review
 
Headphone
 
Massdrop x HIFIMAN HE350: $99 Shipped in the US ($15 extra for international orders)
 
Headphones mentioned and compared
 
1MORE MK801: $79.99
Fostex x Massdrop TH-X00: $399
Grado Labs The Prestige Series SR80e: $99
HIFIMAN HE1000: $2,999
Master & Dynamic MH30: $349
Master & Dynamic MH40: $399
Puro Sound Labs BT5200: $129.99
Sennheiser HD 598: $249.95
Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 AEi: $349.99
 
Headphone earpads
 
Brainwavz Audio Headphone Memory Foam Earpads - Angled, Pleather: $26.50
HIFIMAN Leather Earpads: $20.00
Stock HIFIMAN Velour Earpads: $10.00
 
Modding material
 
Paper towel
 
Sources
 
iPhone 6 (Space Gray, 128GB):  $849.99 or $399.99 with a 2-Year Contract
Microsoft Surface Book: Starting at $1,499
Questyle Audio QP1R Golden: $899 USD
 
DAC/Amps
 
iFi Audio micro iCAN SE: $299
iFi Audio Pro iCAN: $1,695
 
Software applications used
 
Sound Level Analyzer: $4.99
Spotify Premium – Extreme Setting
TIDAL HiFi – Lossless
 
 

 
 
First listen
 
When I received the HE350, I went through a brief listen, and then connected it to various sources to burn in the headphone.  I normally burn in all of my earphones and headphones I receive, but I really wanted to hear if there were changes through this particular model.  More about this later.
 
 
Build and aesthetics
 
The glossy black frame of the headband is built very well and the black headband itself is tastefully created with contrasting white embroidery, using stitching to hold the slight padding of the headband intact.  The headband mechanism offers five settings; a rather tight fit from its furthest down setting, on up to a very generous fit for the largest of heads with its fifth and highest up setting.  A large “H” shows the HIFIMAN logo at the ends of the headband, and the top of the yokes show “HE350” on the left and right of the headphone.  The yokes are made out of plastic, but has a satisfying solid feel and matte look to them.  The earcups have a gunmetal look, and have a fine-looking gloss to them as well.  The grills are glossy black, and are see through just enough to see a little bit of the inner workings of the headphone.  The earpads are black velour and look to be of high quality.  The cable connectors of the HE350 look to be of high quality, as do the black 53-inch cable with right angled plug.  This headphone might as well be called the Batman because of its mostly slick gunmetal and black appearance.
 
 
 
Fit and comfort
 
The adequately sized and lightly padded headband, velour pads, light total headphone weight, coupled with a better overall fit than my HIFIMAN HE1000 makes the HE350 one very comfortable headphone to wear.  The earcups rotate a full 180 degrees and pivot just over 180 degrees, meaning the HE350 provides a full range of movement for just about every type of head in existence.  The only issue that I foresee listeners having is with the velour pads.  I personally don’t have issues with it as I am used to wearing wrestling head gear that gets very hot and sweaty, but some listeners that aren’t used to the velour padding of headphones may feel that the pads will get warm or hot with extended listening sessions. 
 
The 53 inches of cable length is great for listeners on the go, and the fact that the HE350 offers detachable connectors standard is a welcome aspect, especially for listeners directly coming from the beautiful sounding Fostex x Massdrop TH-X00 Mahogany headphone, which has fixed cabling standard.
 
With regards to the fit of the headphone, I personally find the most comfortable fit of the headband the second or third lowest setting.  Each setting holds rather strong, so changing to and discovering your individual setting is a joy to obtain.
 
 
Glasses and the HE350
 
I tried the HE350 with sunglasses to test if they feel comfortable while the HE350 is on my head.  I tested with the Oakley Offshoot, which have larger stalks than regular eyeglasses.  The HE350 puts a little pressure on the Offshoot stalks, but isn't a concern with regards to pain or anything of the sort.  Your mileage may vary, especially since different sized heads, eyeglasses, tolerance to wearing eyeglasses with headphones and other factors will all come into play.
 
 
 
How to replace earpads
 
There are four grooves of each earpad that need to come out of the indentation of the earcup.  Once you locate one to take off (push earpad portion closest to you away from you), the rest of the earcup is very easy to take off.  To put the earpad back on, repeat the process, inserting the groove of each earpad into the indentation of the earcup.  Make sure there is no play with any part of the earpad once it’s fully on the earcup.  If there is play, you’ll need to reinsert a groove or grooves into the earcup until there is no play with any part of the earpad.
 
Push earpad portion closest to you away from you to take earpad groove off
  
 
Earpad off of earcup housing

 
Repeat process by inserting earpad grooves in earcup indentation

 
HE350 earpad replacement procedure in video form:

 
 
Disclaimer and hearing factors
 
The HE350 sound impressions are mainly for anyone wanting a point of reference regarding how they more or less pair with the iPhone 6, QP1R and Surface Book.  Other sources may vary slightly or greatly as the HE350 sounds different enough with these three sources to warrant mentioning.  The HE350 will have a warmer and pronounced effect in the overall bass region when pairing with the iPhone 6.  The HE350 will have a supremely detailed with slight treble and bass with extended detail when paired with the QP1R.  The HE350 will have a more balanced and natural sounding approach to its presentation when paired with the Surface Book.  For reference, the HE350 is fairly easy to drive, as a smartphone such as the iPhone doesn't take full volume for the HE350 to emit levels that can damage hearing pretty quickly. 
 
We all hear differently, and our experiences with regards to how our interpretation of what we hear vary greatly.  Some factors that come to mind (and not limited), are: 
 
Your inner ear and skull’s overall composition: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/the-unique-vibrations-of-your-skull-affect-how-you-hear-music-654940/?no-ist.
 
Hearing loss as we age, also known as presbycusis: https://www.ohio.edu/news/months/nov1998/111.html,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presbycusis.
 
Heredity, noise trauma, dietary habits, smoking, hypertension, atherosclerosis, are other factors that affect people’s overall hearing ability.
 
 
Analyze this and that
 
The test tracks that I use in my reviews are located in these albums (album alphabetical order)
 
1989 (Deluxe Edition) by Taylor Swift (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
21 by Adele (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Bad (2001 Special Edition) by Michael Jackson (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Bangerz by Miley Cyrus (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
Beyoncé by Beyoncé (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
good kid, m.A.A.d city by Kendrick Lamar (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Heart Blanche by Ceelo Green (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park (FLAC 48.0kHz/24bit)
Make Yourself by Incubus (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
No. 5 Collaborations Project (EP) by Ed Sheeran (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
One by One by Foo Fighters (FLAC 88.2kHz/24bit)
Random Access Memories by Daft Punk (FLAC 88.2kHz/24bit)
Schubert – Berliner Philharmoniker by Nikolaus Harnoncourt (FLAC 48.0kHz/24bit)
The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Thriller by Michael Jackson (DSD 2822.4kHz/1bit)
X (Wembley Edition) by Ed Sheeran (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
 
Several standalone tracks (track alphabetical order)
 
Dock of the Bay by The Persuations – A Cappella Dreams (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
M.O.R. by Blur – Blur 21, Blur (2012 Remaster – Special Edition) (MP3 320kbps 44.1kHz/16bit)
Schubert String Quartet No. 14 in D minor D. 810, Death and the Maiden: III. Scherzo. Allegro molto by Oslo String Quartet – The Schubert Connection (DSD 2822.4kHz/1bit)
Serenade (Spanish Dance), Op. 54, No. 2 by Jano Starker and David Popper – Wilson Audio Ultimate Reference (APE 44.1kHz/16bit)
The Peppery Man by Natalie Merchant – Leave Your Sleep (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
These Bones by The Fairfield Four – I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
 
If I am listening to a product that is not able to be listened with the highest resolution tracks that I have mentioned, I will listen to the TIDAL versions (FLAC).
 
 
Sound impressions
 
Remember earlier in the review when I said that I wanted to find out if I observed changes with burn in?  Based on the time I’ve currently burned in the headphones so far (around 125 hours) I haven’t noticed too much change as the inherent qualities of the sound have stayed more or less the same.  The HE350's sound signature produces an upper midrange and treble emphasis.  This is a bright sounding headphone.  No sugar coating in this regard.  Highly resolute, with a crisp and detailed prominence.  Midrange is slightly recessed and bass has quality but also takes a step back in quantity.  The open back nature helps create a soundstage that I feel is unrivaled at this price point.  The clarity is outstanding for a dynamic driver and exemplary, especially in the treble areas.  Some may think that the large size of the drivers (50mm) would play a part in creating more bass to the sound signature.  This is not the case with the HE350.  What I will say the size more than likely helps to convey more of a full and wide soundstage, which is a welcome effect in my book.  Will my sound impressions match yours?  Who knows, but there is no denying the fact that they are inherently bright, may be slightly sibilant at first listen, and the soundstage and quality of music that is presented is apparent.
 
The treble is the captain of the ship, and will be either be loved and adored for many years to come, or loathed and reviled as one of the most treble/upper midrange heavy headphones you may hear (aside from Grados).  The high frequencies are crisp and the open back creates an open and airy experience.  It really is a nice experience, especially if you want to take a detour away from pure reference or bassy sounding headphones.  If you are a lover of treble, purchase the HE350 because it will reward with oodles of treble, and probably then some.
 
Upper midrange, where art thou?  Yes, right here.  And there.  And seemingly everywhere.  Whew, when paired with a detailed and resolute source, the upper midrange exhibits itself with such a voracity it seems, but is toned down somewhat to my ears once a little burning in and also brain burning in comes into play.  Vocals are vibrant, rifts are obvious and guitars sound dynamic.  I can listen to the HE350 for hours without any sibilance or too-bright issues, since I have gotten used to the bright and open sound of the beautifully created headphone.
 
The lower frequencies can exhibit a sheer softness, but does not sound muffled – rather, it sounds articulate, yet gentle.  As you can tell by now, this is not a basshead headphone or anything near the sort.  For those that want to take a break from the bassy headphones of the world and hear adequately accurate, yet subdued in rapaciousness compared to bassier headphones, the HE350 is the one to audition.
 
I feel the HE350 portrays good depth of field, but excels in the soundstage width department.  The upper midrange and open back characteristics aid in creating that air, that breath; that aura, if you will.  It really is a great sound and feeling once you dial in your favorite source and music.
 
With regards to sound leakage, the HE350 leaks a lot of sound, as its open-back construction would be a great choice to annoy co-workers and people around you - and not a great choice if you value the peace and serenity that an alternatively chosen closed-back designed headphone inherently produces to those around them.
 
My wife listened to the HE350 for a few minutes listening to some tracks off of the QP1R, and I asked: "How do you like them?"  She says "It sounds fine.  It doesn't have a lot of bass, but sometimes you don't need a lot of bass."  She ends with: "It's better to sound bright than dull!"™
 
Here's my impressions of the HE350 in video form:

 
 
iFi Audio micro iCAN SE

 
The micro iCAN SE is an amp that produces a defined and resolute sound signature, especially when coupled with the QP1R.  Detail is palpable, and the micro/macro detail of the HE350 truly shines.  The "3D HolographicSound" setting helps add in a little more forward, rich and transparent sound field perception.  iFi Audio explains: "3D HolographicSound recreates a holographic sound field like listening to a pair of speakers."
 
Here's the 3D HolographicSound settings:
 - = Direct
●●● = 3D for flat sounding recordings.
● = 3D for recordings with excessive stereo effect.
 
I only need to turn the volume dial a little (to around 9 o' clock) to obtain a comfortable listening level.  The micro iCAN SE also features a Bass Boost switch, called "XBass".  iFi Audio explains: "XBass was uniquely-designed to extend the bass response to suit different headphones."
 
Here's the XBass settings:
- = Direct
●●● = For bass shy headphones.
● = For average bass headphones.
 
XBass is my favorite setting on the amp because I can immediately hear and feel a change in the bass response (increased volume of bass, texture and decay).  
 
At the one dot setting, I personally feel the HE350 doesn't benefit too much with this setting.  A little more bass is apparent, but is still not bassy enough to my ears, as the one dot setting is best for average bass headphones.  The HE350 is in my opinion a bass shy headphone, and would benefit the best with using the three dot setting.  With that said...
 
Using the three dot setting adds more volume of overall bass and on certain tracks has bass that can be heard, felt (not immensely, but sufficiently), and there is more perception of prolonged reverberation and decay.  The three dot setting doesn't turn the HE350 into a basshead headphone (at least without source EQ applied), but it turns the HE350 into more of a balanced sounding headphone.  The result of the three dot setting is creamy-smooth sounding bass that melds naturally into the highly detailed midrange and higher frequencies.
 
iFi Audio Pro iCAN

 
I wanted to try out the HE350 with a balanced amp, so I used my HE1000 balanced cable with the HE350, connected to the Pro iCAN I had on loan for a couple of weeks. My favorite settings are:
 
Tube+ selected ("2 x NOS GE 5670s are engaged with the J-FET circuitry switched out for an all-valve Class A operation": "Even Order harmonics dominate")
XBass selected to "40Hz" (Max Bass setting)
3D selected to "OFF" or "90/60+" (Max Loudspeaker Angle setting)
Gain set to 0dB
 
The Pro iCAN is connected to the QP1R as the source.  The resulting sound is utterly transparent, fluid and the smooth presentation is resounding.  Delicate, yet full of depth and dynamic in nature.  Seriously blissful sounding and truly brings out every last drop of the technical capabilities the HE350 is able to emanate.  The GE 5670 brings out the warmth of the HE350 with no inherent brightness, just a more clear view of the treble as it has been softened to seemingly refresh the senses.  Bass is fluid with adequate heft because of the "40Hz" setting.  The midrange is gentle and lush.  Soundstage and spatial capabilities?  Pretty breathtaking; natural, spacious, and transparent, in my opinion.  The combination is truly an eye opening experience.  No hype here, just sweet sounding truth to my ears. 
 
Gaming: Microsoft Surface Book
 
The HE350 performs well at least with certain genres of games that I like to play such as racing and fighting games.  The soundstage and pinpoint cues are excellent to my ears and are an easy, non sibilant listen with the Surface Book.  The below titles were observed by watching YouTube gameplay videos.
 
First Person Shooter
Counter Strike: Global Offensive

 
From the different types of gunshots, smoke screens, hand to hand (knife fighting), soundstage and sound position of all are excellent.  A joy to watch and listen to the CS:GO Cologne Grand Finals.  "Team EnVyUs" is simply relentless, with unabashed aggression.
 
Racing
Forza Motorsport 6 

 
The acceleration, shifting, screeching tire skids, braking, sliding, safety cone hitting, car to car smashing and background music are all pretty immersive, with clarity and detail.  Fantastic to listen.
 
Fighter
Street Fighter V

 
Everything about listening to Street Fighter V sounded hype!  Seriously though, It isn't as though you feel each punch, kick, projectile and throw with a sheer immense bass presence, but the clear and expansive technicalities behind it all sounds delightful. 
 
 
Headphone comparisons
 
Before I start with the comparisons; I have listened to a lot of audio equipment, but I haven't listened to everything.  If you request a comparison and it's not listed in my profile and hasn't been reviewed, then there is a chance that either I haven't listened to it in a long while and don't want to compare by memory, or I don't have the requested product(s) with me to compare.  Consider being proactive by sending me a PM (private message), sending me the headphone(s) and/or sources, IEMs, etcetera, you would like for me to compare, and I'll add it to the review (or any review that I've written).  If you don't have the requested product(s) with you and I don't have the requested product(s) with me, chances are slim that I will be able to fulfill your request because I always like to A/B with audio equipment that's immediately on-hand.
 
My headphone comparisons are volume matched as close to the 0 to .1 dB discrepancy of the two A/B compared headphones as I can; to read my full method, check out the (Q15) Decibel Measurements, Disclaimer and Headphone Comparisons section in my Questyle Audio QP1R review. 

 
1MORE MK801

 
There is more treble emphasis from the HE350, and the MK801 has a meatier midrange with more quantity of bass.  Soundstage, layering and spatial factors all tailor to the HE350, mainly because of the open back nature compared to the closed back nature of the MK801.
 
Fostex x Massdrop TH-X00 (Mahogany)

 
The TH-X00 has much more quality and resonant bass, midbass and midrange.  The HE350 on the other hand, shines in the upper midrange, treble, and slightly edges it out in the soundstage factor due to the open back nature of the HE350.  These are two very different sounding headphones, and come down to your preferences: do you want a liquid midrange with high quality and quantity bass, then then TH-X00 is the one to get.  If you want high frequencies that seemingly bursts with auditory flavor, then the HE350 is the one to get.  Or, purchase both of them, since they are both different enough to tailor to different moods and preferences.
 
Grado Labs The Prestige Series SR80e

 
SR80e vs HE350 with Stock Velour and BAP - The fit of the SR80e is lovely, as it is very lightweight, and the foam earpads (“cushions”) are old school in nature but are nonetheless comfortable on my ears.  The SR80e is lighter than the HE350, but the HE350 feels sturdier as a whole.  The SR80e is a pretty bright sounding headphone, brighter than most headphones that I’ve listened to.  The SR80e is brighter sounding than the HE350, but not outrageously so.  There is more pronounced bass and a more in-your-face sound as a whole with the SR80e.  There is more of a V signature of the SR80e compared to the more balanced sound of the HE350.  I would even say the HE350 sounds slightly more laid back than the SR80e.  The SR80e has a dynamic sound with pretty good midbass for a lightweight and soft-feeling headphone.  The midrange is somewhat recessed compared to the treble.  The higher frequencies are vibrant compared to the HE350, and are slightly peakier in nature.  Replacing the stock velour earpads with the BAP makes the HE350 bassier and tames the treble, but is still not quite the bass quantity comparatively of the SR80e.  Soundstage of the SR80e is adequate, but is not exceeding transparent, especially when compared to the more spacious feeling of the HE350.  My take from both are that the SR80e is a more energetic sound, and the HE350 is a slightly more resolving and balanced sound.  The SR80e is a dynamically bright, yet merry sounding headphone, especially for the price.
 
 
HIFIMAN HE1000

 
Why am I comparing a $99 headphone to one of the top of the line headphones in the world?  Why not!  When it comes to fit, I will admit it – the HE350 has got the HE1000 beat.  The headband of the HE350 fits normal-sized heads, as the HE1000 seems to want to fit abnormally-sized heads, as evidenced by the sheer height of notches the headband can rise up!  However, when it comes to sound, the HE1000 bests the HE350 at most all areas – bass is more resounding, rich and a joy to listen to with the HE1000.  The midrange of the HE1000 is full, slightly laid back and liquid, all rolled up into one.  The treble is more apparent than the HE1000, and the soundstage is surprisingly large – not quite as large as the HE1000 – but still makes you want to give a smile when you hear and feel the soundstage physiognomies of the HE350.
 
Master & Dynamic MH30

 
The MH30 exhibits more bass and midrange than the HE350.  The HE350 emits seemingly heaps more treble than the MH30.  The HE350 and MH30 can best be described as polar opposites.  The MH30 is bassy and almost primitive in nature, and the HE350 is comparatively enveloping and transparent in the upper frequencies.
 
Master & Dynamic MH40

 
The MH40 is more towards the HE350 tonally compared to the MH30, but it’s still not quite there.  There is still a lot more bass and midrange emphasis than the HE350.  There is more treble out of the MH40 out of the MH30, but cannot hold a candle to the sharp, steely and as you listen more, smooth nature of the HE350’s treble and upper midrange.
 
Puro Sound Labs BT5200

 
This headphone is similar to the MH30, but with slightly less all out bass presence, which means there is still a lot more bass and midrange presentation compared to the HE350.  The upper midrange, treble and soundstage is where the HE350 shows its true chops, making some bassier headphones, including the BT5200, give a congratulatory bow to the presence of the brilliant nature of the HE350’s upper midrange and treble.
 
Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 AEi

 
The Momentum 2.0 AEi has more of an overall balanced sound than the HE350, with the bass emitting with more punch and slam, midrange that is more in your face, and treble that is smoothed over in the uppermost frequencies.  The HE350, and its open back nature does have a wider soundstage, enhanced imaging and crisp sounding upper midrange and treble than the Momentum 2.0 AEi.
 
Sennheiser HD 598

 
The HD 598 is lightweight and comfortable with a headband that is soft with small slots that probably allows for better airflow going around the top of your head.  At least, that's what it looks like.  It's a nice design, nonetheless.  The HE350 is comparatively larger than the HD 598, but still similar in weight and comfortable on the head.

 

You are going to receive more visceral bass from the HD 598 with more slam.  Quality of bass is similar, but the HD 598 deals with subbass better because of the more inherent bass rendering capabilities.  This is pretty much where the HD 598 has a clear advantage (if you value more bass) over the HE350.

 

The midrange of the HD 598 is grittier and less resolute than the HE350.  The HD 598's midrange is warmer, more closed in, and sounds syrupy compared to the resolute and less viscous nature of the HE350's midrange.

 

Moving onto the higher frequencies, there is not much comparison, at least to my ears.  The HD 598's treble rolls off much earlier than the HE350's far-reaching tendencies.

 

Extension, depth, crispness, coherency, transparency and perceived soundstage all favor the HE350 when it comes to treble comparisons.  Layering and separation of not only various instruments, but vocal presence favors the HE350.  Treble presentation, soundstage perception, and other intricacies are areas where the HE350 will most likely have over a lot of headphones, at least in its $100 price range.

 

Overall, the HD 598 emits a decent sound with adequate bass, and the HE350 emits a more micro and macro detailed, and harmonious sound than the HD 598 to my ears.  Using the BAP, bass is bumped up and sounds not very far off from the bass of the HD 598, but wouldn't argue that either or can be perceived as more when connecting to various sources.  Overall sound signature, depth, balance and resonance are enhanced as well with the BAP compared to the stock pads, which makes the disparity between the two headphones a little bit wider, in my opinion. 

 

 

All of the headphones compared are amazing sounding, and are prodigious in their own manner, regardless of form factor (closed/open back) and price ranges relative to the HE350, especially when paired with a favorite source.

 
 
 
Should you modify?
 
It’s really up to you.  By now you should know that having this headphone as part of your collection (or only headphone) that it is an upper midrange and treble deity.  With that said, you may want to dial in modifications to help bring out the bass as well as taming down the treble in the process.  What can you do? 
 

• EQ – use your source’s EQ settings to dial in a preferable frequency response to your ears.
• Bass Boost or equivalent – use your source’s Bass Boost or equivalent button or switch, as you can with a button press or flip of a switch have immediate results with increased bass with the expense of probably lower perceived treble - which is what you want anyways, right?
• Earpad change – changing the earpads may change the frequency response to one that sounds better to your ears.
• Third-party elemental cables – copper, SPC, silver/gold or silver litz, etc. may help further refine the sound signature of the HE350.
• Physical modifications (be careful and focus on reversible mods first!) such as changing the grill, adding foam, felt, different materials and densities can make for a very fun project to help create the sound that ends up sounding utterly amazing.

 
I personally won’t be modifying as I am thoroughly enjoying the unique sound signature the HE350 produces, but would like to hear upcoming modified HE350s at future meets when people may bring them in tow.  I take that back: I purchased a couple of earpads, now use the Brainwavs Headphone Angled Memory Foam Earpads – Angled, Pleather, and found adding material helps tame the treble and increase bass.
 
 
Meeting of the musical minds
 
The Source AV Design Group is a location in Torrance, California, where you can listen to lower to high priced headphones and amplifiers, on up to multi hundred-thousand-dollar speaker systems.  Their showrooms are positively ridiculous, with one in particular sounding better and more visceral than some dedicated movie theaters! 
 
I attended the first of many Summer Series events at the location, the link to the events thread is here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/807600/cavalli-audio-presents-the-source-av-s-summer-series-2016.  I brought some gear to the meet, and wanted to obtain a few impressions from my friends, most of which are Head-Fi members. 
 
Overall impressions: Most all who listened thought the treble came off as bright sounding, and one said they thought there were issues in the treble area.  All said for the price, the sound is great.  @Bones1885 says “for the money they are damn good.  Some stuff comes off a little sparkly, but for the money, hey?”  @Gilly87 also says he can’t think of any headphones up to the $300 range that can even touch the HE350 (especially after the modifications were implemented).  An argument/debate ensued, and I think the HE350 held its own.
 
 
Earpad synergy
 
Speaking of modifications, @Netforce brought his Brainwavz Headphone Memory Foam Earpads – Angled, Pleather to try.  In order to use it with the HE350, you are going to need to either use the earpad rings from the stock velour pads, or purchase a HIFIMAN set of pads and then use the rings from those to put in the Brainwavz Angled Pleather (I’m going to call them BAP from now on) pads.  I asked @Netforce why he chose specifically the BAP pads.  He said because he wanted a compromise between the large Alpha pads and small Focus pads that he didn’t really enjoy with his HIFIMAN headphones.  I am used to the pleather TH-X00 angled pads, so I felt right at home with the BAP and HE350 on my head.  After all is said and done, I purchased the BAP as well as the stock HIFIMAN leather pads (stock on HE-500 and HE-6 headphones [source, HIFIMAN’s online store]) for myself, and will be using the BAP as my main HE350 earpads. 
 
 
 
Earpad replacements

 

I received the BAP and HIFIMAN leather (pleather) earpads, and both are great in their own way.

 

 
The HIFIMAN leather earpads are great if you want the same size and fit as the stock velour pads, but want a leathery feel instead of the velour of the stock pads.  Bass is improved just a tad, not very much, but feels better to my ears than the stock velour pads.
 
Moving onto the BAP, I took out the rings of the HIFMAN leather pads and put them in the BAP, which comes with no rings, only the earpads themselves.  Here’s the process:
 
Installation: looks like it can't be done, but it can!
  
 
Nice and easy, slowly easing in the ring, stretching/moving the earpad material as you insert more ring inside the earpad material
  
 
Keep moving the ring inside slowly as to not damage the earpad material

 
Make sure everything is nice and smooth inside and out

 
BAP installation finished

 
BAP: Without ring on left, and with ring on right

 
BAPs all finished - the BAP replacement should take a couple of minutes until it comes out looking great

 

 
Bass is more improved than the stock velour pads and the HIFIMAN leather pads to my ears, and puts the earcups at an angle on your head as well due to the angled nature of the BAP.  Some may be happy with just the earpad change, as the treble doesn’t sound as peaky to my ears compared to the stock velour pads.

 

In athletic (and other categories) terms, I would say the HIFIMAN leather pads would be an intermediate replacement (material change), and the BAP would be an advanced replacement (material and earcup angle change).  

 

My favorite is the BAP, since bass is improved, treble is slightly less peaky, and the overall sound is more to my preferences in comparison to the stock velour pads and HIFIMAN leather.

 

 

An observation
 
After my wife listened to some music from my iPhone 6 and the HE350 with BAP only, she said it makes the Formation by Beyoncé song have a different type of presentation.  I asked "What do you mean?" She replies "The headphones make it sound better than what you would normally hear on the radio."  I said "Pretty nice sound that's coming out of this headphone, only $99 shipped for those who purchase it".  She said "Really?  That's great, I thought for sure this was one of your more higher-priced headphones!"  She listens to the HE350 again later in the day (Dock of the Bay by The Persuations – A Cappella Dreams) and says "This is a really good sounding headphone!  Only $99? (smiles)"
 

 
It’s all about the ply!™
 
The BAP helps to bring out the bass just a tad, but was still a little bright to my tastes.  That’s when @Netforce brings out paper towels (looks like the Bounty brand) and proceeds to stuff them in the earcups of the HE350.
 
@Netforce installing Bounty paper towel
  
 
Here’s a video of @Netforce explaining the modification of my HE350:

 
The impressions regarding the paper towels are based on the use of specifically the BAP.
 
@Netforce originally used 4 ply (Bounty paper towel folded twice) and placed in the earcups.  Treble subsided, bass improved, but may have had an overall less clear sound as a result.
 
Then I suggested only using one ply (Bounty paper towel, not folded) and placed in the earcups.  My favorite sound of the different combinations.  Bass improved but wasn’t muddied, treble subsided just enough to not sound too bright, and depending upon source, can emit acceptable levels of bass as well.
 
@warrenpchi suggested a perforation of the paper towel, where there is around an inch diameter of paper towel from the earpads and a perforated hole in the middle of the paper towel, to allow the unobstructed sound of the HE350 to emit.  I found it still tonally a little bright because there wasn’t as much material to modify the overall sound, but is a painless modification that may be preferred to your ears.
 
@warrenpchi listening with focus - left/top, and his perforated mod, implemented by @Netforce - right/down
  
 
To summarize in alphabetical order:
 
@moedawg140 mod: BAP and 1 ply Bounty/material
@Netforce mod: BAP and 4 ply Bounty/material
@warrenpchi mod: perforated/hole in middle material
 
Here’s @Netforce’s impressions (verbatim):
 
“$99 open back dynamic from hifiman and massdrop? Personally as a big hifiman planar guy hearing this dynamic open back was in my opinion nice. For the price and the clarity it is nice contender for probably the best value can at $99. As it is stock pads and through my fiio x5 my first desire like with a lot of my headphones was to try it with an amp so I hooked it up with my Topping X1 amp and we got a nice improvement to the bass. Treble I found in a bit bright.
 
After listening to it stock and passing it around so others could listen to it I decided to take my angled brainwavz pads and put them on the headphones and holy moly we got an improvement to the bass! For the treble I did some experiments with some paper towels and tried adding some to tame the treble, initially 4 pieces was a touch too veiled, 1 piece seemed like it was what most people preferred! Did a little quarter size hole mod and that wasn't as well received. So overall with like most hifiman cans modding was a lot of fun and simple!”
 
Here's @Gilly87's impressions (verbatim):
 
"Stock, I'd say they are not a bad buy at $99 - reminded me of a less detailed version of my Beyer T90s with stock pads with mediocre extension. I could see some folks liking it, and it's not a bad buy at $99.
 
Now, @moedawg140 , @Netforce , and a few other guys at the show were working on a mod using different pads and putting different materials between the driver and ear, and I have to say, I was pretty impressed by the outcome - they sounded like the best warm, bassy headphones I'd ever heard under $200-$300 USD. If Hifiman could replicate the effect and make it look classy, they'd have a headphone that could easily convert the Beats crowd towards more upmarket stuff. Really nice.
 
If you like to tinker with pads and mods, these could be a dream come true, and either way they're a bargain at $99 for sure."
 
Remember the person who listened to the HE350 stock saying that there were issues in the treble? After the BAP and material mod, he exudes "This sounds like a completely different headphone now!  I like it!"
 
I would suggest, if you like the feel of pleather and angled-type pads, to give the BAP a try.  Even if you don’t purchase 3^rd party pads, you can for very cheap or free use paper, a paper towel, shelf liner - anything permeable, to dial in the best sound to your ears.
 
 
Cultivate a fresh sound™
 
What does this mean?  Too often we focus on only the music we are accustomed to.  I am usually this way as well.  Here’s an opportunity to listen to something you either may not normally listen to, or haven’t heard of.  As I publish reviews in the future, I will have new and older tracks from various genres that I’ve listened to in this section, and will be largely based on what songs really moved me in particular to the reviewed product I’ve listened to on it.  Even though the tracks will be linked to YouTube videos or audio-only versions, the tracks will either be listened solely from the iPhone 6 and TIDAL HiFi - Lossless, or from my Microsoft Surface Book and TIDAL HiFi - Lossless.  Instead of describing each track in immense detail, you can simply listen for yourself and bask in the beautiful music you may have just found for the first time right now!  What’s also great is that you can come back here just to listen to the tracks mentioned!  If you have any personal issues with any tracks posted, please PM me and I'll replace it with another track.  It's all about positivity in our musical journey.  With those kind words of encouragement, here we go…
 
Can't Stop The Feeling by Justin Timberlake

 
Sunshine by Eric Benet

 
Beethoven's 5 Secrets - OneRepublic (Cello/Orchestral Cover) by ThePianoGuys

 
Easy Lover (Phil Collins & Philip Bailey Cover) by Panama Wedding & Great Good Fine Ok 

 
 
Is the HE350 worth it?
 
In one word, yes!  You get exemplary sound and presentation of space for not a lot of vittles, money, dinero, moolah, mazuma, whatever you want to call it - that are needed to be exchanged.  The HE350 offers amazing fit and feel of a headphone regardless of the price point, and a headphone that I personally feel many people are going to enjoy, especially when they listen to the headphone for a while and enjoy the unique sound it produces to the senses.
 
 
Final thoughts
 
Masssdrop and HIFIMAN have been able to accomplish the unthinkable, which is to create a headphone that checks all of the auditory and practical boxes: fit, sound, and that slick aesthetic flair this headphone manages to exude.  After thoroughly listening to and enjoying the HE350, I would agree that it should be recommended as one of, it not, the entry-level audiophile headphone.  With that said, if you want an energetic headphone that offers remarkable clarity, soundstage that is immense in diligence and a fit with feel that is above its weight in gold, the Massdrop x HIFIMAN HE350 should be a part of your personal collection.
 
 
Specifications
 

1. Massdrop x HIFIMAN
2. Driver: 50 mm dynamic
3. Impedance: 50 ohm
4. Sensitivity: 93 dB at 1 mW
5. Frequency response: 15 Hz – 22 kHz
6. Velour ear pads
7. Detachable cable
8. Cable length: 53 in (135 cm)
9. Cup connectors: 0.1 in (2.5 mm)
10. Plug: ⅛ in (3.5 mm)
11. Weight, with cable: 12.1 oz (343 g)
12. Weight, without cable: 10.6 oz (301 g)

This will house the TLR version of my full review.  The main version is here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/804038/review-1more-1m301-single-driver-in-ear-headphone-with-in-line-microphone-and-remote.
 
Taken from the Final summary portion of the full review:
 
"This is one IEM that sounds very good for its price, and can easily be compared to IEMs that cost multiple times its price.  The design of the Single Driver, and the sound, are above its weight in gold, or in this case, a little more than several dollars and other equivalent currencies.  The Single Driver IEM is recommended for those that want a great performing IEM that will not break the smallest of banks."

This will house the TLR version of my full review.  The main version is here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/804049/review-1more-e0323-dual-driver-in-ear-headphone-with-in-line-microphone-and-remote.
 
Taken from the Final summary portion of the full review:
 
"The hybrid earphones are a joy to listen to.  It reminds me a lot of the Puro Sound Labs IEM500, but with slightly more "meat" to the presentation.  Meaning, there is more substantial sound in the bass department and warmth throughout the rest of the presentation.  The entire presentation is smooth, and presents the listener with a sound that is very pleasing to the ear.  If you are not a fan of bass, you may not like these, but to a person that wants quality-sounding bass to an overall smooth and warm-liquid presentation, the Dual Driver is an easy recommendation.  Add in the price of admission, and it’s definitely worth a listen and purchase."

This will house the TLR version of my full review.  The main version is here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/804053/review-1more-triple-driver-in-ear-headphone-with-in-line-microphone-and-remote.
 
Taken from the Final summary portion of the full review: 
 
"These can be seen as top of the line earphones, regardless of the price.  The packaging, beautiful.  The literal message, thoughtful.  The construction of the earphone itself, inspiring.  The sound, bliss.  This is worth a listen and a purchase – for the amazing price of admission, why not?"
 

Before I start the review, I would like to thank Massdrop for the complementary earphone.

The main review is also located here:
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/review-massdrop-x-mee-audio-pinnacle-px-iems.857691/


Introduction

Massdrop has released several headphone and IEM MEE Audio products over the course of time. I purchased two of Massdrop’s Bluebox MEE Audio IEMs, which gives you a chance to get different MEE Audio IEMs, some worth more than others. I wound up getting the MEE Audio M9 Classic and RX18P - two bargain-priced IEMs that were satisfactory in build and sound. Now, Massdrop has collaborated with MEE Audio to create a value-priced Pinnacle P1 called the Massdrop x MEE Audio Pinnacle PX IEMs (hereby called the PX). I’ve had a chance to listen to both the P1 and PX, and will have my thoughts on both a little later. Let’s learn more about the PX!


Audio equipment used in the review

Earphone
Massdrop x MEE Audio Pinnacle PX IEMs: $113.99

Earphones mentioned and compared
1MORE Triple Driver: $99.99
Atomic Floyd Hi-Def Drum: $199.00
MEE Audio Pinnacle P1: $199.99
Meze Audio 12 Classics: $79.00

Sources
iPhone 6: (Space Gray, 128GB): $849.99 or $399.99 with a 2-Year Contract
Microsoft Surface Book: Starting at $1,499
Questyle Audio QP1R Golden: $899 USD

Software Applications Used
Spotify Premium – Extreme Setting
TIDAL HiFi – Lossless


Inside the box

Open the box, and you’ll see:

1 Massdrop x MEE Audio Pinnacle PX IEMs
1 Detachable headset cable with inline microphone and remote
6 pairs of silicone ear tips in different sizes
3 pairs of Comply T-200 memory foam ear tips in different sizes
1 Carrying case
1 Shirt clip


Build and aesthetics


One of the most interesting aspects of the PX is the build. What do I mean? Well, for starters there aren’t a lot of earphones out on the market that have similar internals (in this case it’s a 10 mm dynamic moving coil with copper-clad aluminum voice coil) but have variations of the outside of their housings. With the P1, it has a Zinc material housing. In the PX’s case, it also has a Zinc material housing, but additionally has a Physical Vapor Deposition (otherwise known as PVD) coating over the Zinc, as well. PVD coatings can be harder and also more corrosion resistant than other types of coating applied by the electroplating process. PVD coatings have high temperature and good impact strength with abrasion resistance and durability that doesn’t usually necessitate a protective topcoat. More information with regards to PVD can be found on sites like PVDcoatings and Wikipedia. The PVD coating feels soft, yet hard to the touch against the Zinc housing.

The weight without the cable is 13 g, but with it, the weight is 29 g - not the lightest in-ear, but you really feel the quality due to the fantastic build and weight. For a universal, it has one of the best build qualities that I’ve experienced. The housing has a solid weight to it, and the stock cable is one of the beefiest and thickest cable that I’ve seen or own! The four-braid cable is sturdy, and even the two-braid on one side is about as thick as a lot of earphones’ overall cable thickness! The cable doesn’t utilize memory wires, and uses a remote with an omnidirectional microphone.

The PX uses an MMCX connection and offer a solid click when attaching with the stock cables’ connectors.

The stock cable uses an L-shaped plug, which helps thwart against accidental cable pulls from device ports. The remote/mic cable has strain relief at the end of the plug, and the cable utilizes no strain relief.

Overall the PX is quality, with subtle and beefy construction, inside and out.


Fit and comfort

What’s great about the PX is the construction is such as you can choose around the ear or hanging down to wear it. I’m used to wearing most earphones where the housing connectors are pointing a certain direction around the ears, but these, I can wear both ways with good comfort. I’ve had friends try out the PX, and one who owns a lot of earphones said he really enjoyed how the PX felt in his ears. The PVD coating really attributes to the cool feeling against the ears, with just a slight bit of softness as well. I didn’t notice an abnormal amount of microphonics with the stock cable, but is constructed nicely - and as a result feels nice against the ears and sides of the face.


Isolation

This ties into fit, for me, because if the fit of an earphone is good, then isolation should be good as well. In this case, isolation is good, mostly when you find the right angle of the housing, when wearing the cable over the ears. When the cables are hanging down, the fit and angle is easier to obtain, based on my experience. For those that have read my reviews in the past, you know that I usually only use silicone eartips. Using the supplied silicone tips are enough for me to obtain a satisfying, isolated feel. If you use foam tips, expect there to be even more isolation from the outside world, if that’s what you are attempting to obtain.


Eyeglass and sunglass wearers

Since the PX’s stock cable doesn’t utilize memory wire, eyeglasses and sunglasses shouldn’t be hindered very much when wearing the stock cable around your ears. You can choose to wear the PX hanging-straight-down, and this won’t affect eyeglass or sunglasses at all.


Working out

I would personally use another pair of earphones to work out with, because the earphones don’t stay in my ears absolutely perfectly when there is a lot of physical movement. If you want to try to workout with these earphones, the hanging-straight-down position would probably be best for the best angle with regards to fit.


Disclaimer and hearing factors

The Massdrop x MEE Audio Pinnacle PX IEMs sound impressions are mainly for anyone wanting a point of reference regarding how they more or less pair with the iPhone 6, QP1R and Surface Book. Other sources may vary slightly or greatly, as the PX sounds different enough with these three sources to warrant mentioning. The PX will have a warmer, less resolute and pronounced effect in the overall frequency spectrum when pairing with the iPhone 6. The PX will have a detailed with more treble and bass perception with extended detail when paired with the QP1R. The PX will have a balanced, yet leaner approach to its presentation when paired with the Surface Book. For reference, the PX is not difficult, but not the easiest to drive, as a smartphone such as the iPhone does not take full volume for the PX to emit levels that can damage hearing quickly. 13-14 out of 16 volume is when the PX starts to sound very loud to my ears.

We all hear differently, and our experiences about how our interpretation of what we hear vary greatly. Some factors that come to mind (and not limited), are:

Your inner ear and skull’s overall composition: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart...kull-affect-how-you-hear-music-654940/?no-ist.

Hearing loss as we age, also known as presbycusis: https://www.ohio.edu/news/months/nov1998/111.html,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presbycusis.

Heredity, noise trauma, dietary habits, smoking, hypertension, atherosclerosis, are other factors that affect people’s overall hearing ability.


Analyze this and that

The test tracks that I use in my reviews are located in these albums (album alphabetical order)

1989 (Deluxe Edition) by Taylor Swift (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
21 by Adele (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Bad (2001 Special Edition) by Michael Jackson (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Bangerz by Miley Cyrus (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
Beyoncé by Beyoncé (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
good kid, m.A.A.d city by Kendrick Lamar (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Heart Blanche by Ceelo Green (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park (FLAC 48.0kHz/24bit)
Make Yourself by Incubus (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
No. 5 Collaborations Project (EP) by Ed Sheeran (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
One by One by Foo Fighters (FLAC 88.2kHz/24bit)
Random Access Memories by Daft Punk (FLAC 88.2kHz/24bit)
Schubert – Berliner Philharmoniker by Nikolaus Harnoncourt (FLAC 48.0kHz/24bit)
Shades of Marmalade by Jackson Breit (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Thriller by Michael Jackson (DSD 2822.4kHz/1bit)
X (Wembley Edition) by Ed Sheeran (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)

Several standalone tracks (track alphabetical order)

Dock of the Bay by The Persuations – A Cappella Dreams (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
M.O.R. by Blur – Blur 21, Blur (2012 Remaster – Special Edition) (MP3 320kbps 44.1kHz/16bit)
Schubert String Quartet No. 14 in D minor D. 810, Death and the Maiden: III. Scherzo. Allegro molto by Oslo String Quartet – The Schubert Connection (DSD 2822.4kHz/1bit)
Serenade (Spanish Dance), Op. 54, No. 2 by Jano Starker and David Popper – Wilson Audio Ultimate Reference (APE 44.1kHz/16bit)
The Peppery Man by Natalie Merchant – Leave Your Sleep (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
These Bones by The Fairfield Four – I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)

If I am listening to a product that is not able to be listened with the highest resolution tracks that I have mentioned, I will listen to the TIDAL versions (FLAC).


Sound impressions

The PX has a signature that is like the P1s that I’ve listened to, based on memory; which is a very good balanced sound that is competent and doesn’t have very many faults. There is a crispness to the audio that you hear. You hear and feel the bass, but it isn’t overwhelming. The midrange is accentuated just slightly, but that attributes to the crisper balanced sound. Treble, depending on the type of music you listen to, can be quite prevalent, but as a whole, it’s just a little bit below sibilant. Spatial capabilities are in the range of above average to excellent. Pair with a competent DAP or DAC/Amp, and you’ll feel the music flowing all around your head, with amazing aplomb. The frequency representation extends pretty far to my ears, but is great if I want a winsome representation of the music that I’m listening to. Just think of an in-ear that has a vivacious sound, slightly leaning towards the lower upper midrange, yet manages to sound blissfully balanced at the same time. For those that are looking for a basshead earphone, look elsewhere, but those that want a fantastic-sounding balanced earphone with a bit of brighter soul, this earphone will take care of your wants and needs, in spades!


Earphone comparisons

The selected comparisons to the PX, below, are with earphones that are around the price range of the PX. If you’d like a comparison of an earphone that is not mentioned in the review or is not located in my profile, feel free to message me and send me anything you’d like that can then be added to the review. Without further ado…

1MORE Triple Driver


Variability with regards to fit will favor the PX, as the Triple Driver can only be worn hanging-straight-down, however some may feel the Triple Driver has a slightly snugger fit. The Triple Driver has more pronounced mid and subbass, and the PX has a more smoothed-out texture in comparison. The midrange is smoother with the PX, but the Triple Driver jumps out at you with more forwardness. Treble is more pinpoint in sound with the Triple Driver, and is smoother and extended just a bit farther with the PX. Spatial qualities favor both, and aren’t too different to pick a clear victor. However, the Triple Driver is slightly clearer in sound, but the PX is more broad with the frequency range it’s able to convey, most notably its treble.

Atomic Floyd Hi-Def Drum


Where the Hi-Def Drum shines in isolation compared to the PX, the overall fit options favor the PX compared to the Hi-Def Drum. Bass is more prevalent with the PX and the bass isn’t very prevalent with the Hi-Def Drum. Midrange is also more forward and smoother with the PX. The Hi-Def Drum’s midrange is slightly laid back, as other frequencies take more prevalence like the treble. Speaking of the treble, both the PX and Hi-Def Drum exhibit extended treble, but the PX has the slightest bit higher highs. S’ have a bit more bite to the PX, even though the Hi-Def Drum is not a slouch in this area, as the Hi-Def Drum is known for its noticeable treble presence.

Meze Audio 12 Classics


The 12 Classics are very light compared to the PX and offers the most comfortable fit of the compared earphones, in my opinion. Bass and especially subbass is going to heavily favor the 12 Classics. Boomier, with more weight, the 12 Classics as a whole has a warmer sound as a result compared to the PX. Midrange is richer and holds more heft than the PX. Treble heavily favors the PX, as high-hats, female vocals are accentuated and are perceived greater in quantity than the 12 Classics. You’re going to get the 12 Classics if you want a warm and smooth sound signature with a good amount of mid and subbass, and you’re going to get the PX if you want a more balanced and reference sound in comparison.


Cultivate a fresh sound™

What does this mean? Too often we focus on only the music we are accustomed to. I am usually this way as well. Here’s an opportunity to listen to something you either may not normally listen to, or haven’t heard of. As I publish reviews in the future, I will have new and older tracks from various genres that I’ve listened to in this section, and will be largely based on what songs really moved me in particular to the reviewed product I’ve listened to on it. Even though the tracks will be linked to YouTube videos or audio-only versions, the tracks will either be listened solely from the iPhone 6 and TIDAL HiFi - Lossless, or from my Microsoft Surface Book and TIDAL HiFi - Lossless. Instead of describing each track in immense detail, you can simply listen for yourself and bask in the beautiful music you may have just found for the first time right now! What’s also great is that you can come back here just to listen to the tracks mentioned! If you have any personal issues with any tracks posted, please PM me and I'll replace it with another track. It's all about positivity in our musical journey. With those kind words of encouragement, here we go…

Silence by Marshmello ft. Khalid


Evil In The Night by Adam Lambert


If You're Hearing This (Lyric Video) by Hook N Sling x Parson James x Betty Who


New Rules by Dua Lipa



Is the Massdrop x MEE Audio Pinnacle PX IEMs worth it?

If you wanted the P1 at a great price, the PX is a very smart choice, clear and simple. You’ve got the PVD coating which should be more resilient than the standard Zinc housing of the P1. You’ve got in all intents and purposes, quite nearly the same sound from both the P1 and PX. And again, you’ve got the lower price for the PX in relation to the P1. Everything to like and enjoy, with a heavier wallet when purchasing the PX compared to the P1.


Final thoughts

The PX sounds lovely and should be a part of your collection whether starting out on your audiophile journey, or for a low-price mid-level end-game in-ear.

Get yours when you can, and enjoy in delight!


Specifications

• Massdrop x MEE Audio
• Ear coupling: Intraaural
• Housing: Zinc alloy with dark blue PVD finish
• Driver: 10 mm dynamic moving coil with copper-clad aluminum voice coil
• Frequency response: 20 Hz–20 kHz
• Impedance: 50 ohms at 1 kHz
• Sensitivity: 96 dB +/- 3 dB (1 mW at 1 kHz)
• Microphone directivity: Omnidirectional
• Microphone frequency response: 100 Hz–5 kHz
• Microphone sensitivity: -40 dB +/- 3 dB
• Cable: 51 in (130 cm), detachable
• Cable connectors: MMCX
• Cable plug: 3.5 mm, right angle
• Wear styles: Over the ear or down from the ear
• Weight without cable: 0.4 oz (13 g)
• Weight with cable: 1 oz (29 g)

Included

• Detachable headset cable with inline microphone and remote
• Shirt clip
• 6 pairs of silicone ear tips in different sizes
• 3 pairs of Comply T-200 memory foam ear tips in different sizes
• Carrying case
• 2-year warranty

Shipping

All orders will be shipped by Massdrop.

My main review is here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/762142/review-earwerkz-legend-omega-and-legend-r-with-comparisons.
 
This will house the TL;DR version:
 
The awesome customer service, comfortable fit, and an auditory experience like no other, EarWerkz manages to pull off a full house, a three-minute mile and maybe even Ellis Coleman's Flying Squirrel!  
 
Here's a couple of snippets from the review:
 
...The Legend R is neutral focused, but leans towards the warmer side with a bass gradient. The presentation is simply one of the most coherent and resolving of any IEM I have listened to.  The detail retrieval is colossal!  The layering has seeming real texture to it.  The sub-bass can be felt when the song calls for it.  The mids are smooth and natural.  The highs are not ear-piercing, rather, they are effortlessly presented in a way where you can enjoy them, but never hear any sibilance or feel anything other than sheer enjoyment.   The soundstage is more on the intimate side, but you feel like you are right in on the action, meaning it feels like you are actually a part of the music.  The overall sound is thoroughly engaging and non-fatiguing...
 
...In comparison to the Legend R, the Legend Omega elevates the entire frequency spectrum, especially within the sub bass and mid bass region.  Bass has more authority, more punch, more extension, more compliance, and as a result, contains and produces my favorite bass out of any IEM that I have ever listened to.  Mids are smoother, and the highs are still as non-fatiguing and glorious as ever.  The treble on both the Legend Omega and Legend R sounds great to me, however if you listen and want a little more sparkling treble, put a silver cable on it, and you’ll be equipped for your own version of true bliss...
 
Simply put, the Legend Omega and Legend R are worth its weight in whatever currency is used to purchase them, and then some!
 
Take care, and Happy Listening!

A bit of a background about me. I am Maurice Washington, otherwise known as moedawg140 on Head-Fi and Instagram. I have spent countless hours and several years in the audio field, not only attending the perennial audio events around the world, but listening to many products and reviewing them in the process. Last year, I had an aneurysm and brain tumor removed in Germany, and I am currently in recovery. My listening is not perfect (no one’s is), but I hear well enough to pass multiple hearing tests. I was approached by bliiq to write a review. My thinking these days are I will not write a review for a product that I do not deem is worthy. I would much rather focus my time on my family, and sharing inspiration through my day job as a physical education teacher and daily Instagram posts. Once I received the package and listened to the Hummingbird, I nodded and said to myself “This is the real deal!” Feel free to read my thoughts below on why I feel the Hummingbird is a great earphone!


Before I get to my top reason why this is a great earphone, let me highlight a few positives about it.

1. The construction is competitive. Above average looks with the black plastic and very good tactile touch materials are used to make using the buttons as simple as possible. Various eartips sizes and a USB cable is included. A quick start guide, warranty and safety information is included in the box. Adding in a leatherette case with a bliiq sticker rounds out the tasteful package.

2. The sound signature of the product is satisfying to my ears. The bliiq emits a natural, balanced signature, with slightly elevated bass depending on the size of tips used. You should experience more perceived bass if using foam eartips. The midrange and treble is more laid back, and not strident, but with slight air to it. The spatial capabilities (soundstage width and depth) are decent, but not what I would say audiophile-esque. For a Bluetooth product, the bliiq sounds pretty darn good to me. I wouldn’t call the bliiq a necessarily bassy product, but it certainly can be if you do what you can to make it that way (tips/EQ settings, et cetera).

3. The battery life is exemplary. Usually real-world results are not in-sync with manufacturer’s postings, but this is pretty true to life in my experience. I had the music playing for around 10 hours (at about 1/2-3/4 volume) with battery power to spare. I’m sure the music would have gone even longer if I listened at an even lower volume.

4. Ambient Mode! This is one of the only Bluetooth products that I’ve seen with ambient mode! The awesome Sensaphonics 3D AARO earphones offer ambient mode as well, but are quite expensive. For a price much lower, you press the middle button twice quickly in succession to experience being able to use the earphone’s microphone to speak to who you’d like without having to remove your earphones. How cool is that?!

5. Working out is a joy. I have run and also used a push scooter around different cities with the Hummingbird in my ears, and even though the earphone had sweat on them, the earphone kept on trucking with no issues at all!

6. I could have said this reason first, and there would probably be zero reasons to read the rest of the review. Since you have read up to this point, I would like to say, thank you! Here you go, my #1 reason for purchasing this product: LIFETIME WARRANTY! Here’s the thing: how many audio products come with a lifetime warranty? I’ll wait......still waiting........ Exactly. To know that if something goes wrong, you can get a replacement, is worth the price of admission - and then some, in my opinion.

Any negatives? Price? Okay, you can obtain great sounding products for a lot less money than what you’ll find on Amazon, however, how many of these products come with a lifetime warranty?

I would say purchase the product because I said so. If you don’t like it, give it to a friend or loved one as a gift who will cherish you as a result.

Live your life to the fullest, and stay blessed!

***I'm not able to upload my video through Head-Fi (without uploading to YouTube first), so here is the link to my video:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bpf9ox5hc39/?taken-by=moedawg140 ***

Item Weight 1.15 pounds
Package Dimensions 7.1 x 5.7 x 4 inches
Wireless communication technologies Bluetooth
Special features Wireless
Audio Jack Micro USB
Color Black, White or Red

"Wow…this sounds amazing."  "How much does this go for?"  "Wow!"  These were the first few thoughts that I uttered right after listening to the Atomic Floyd SuperDarts Titanium for a few short moments.  I continued to play my test tracks, and kept smiling from ear to ear.
 
I listened to the SuperDarts Titanium (I’ll call them the SDT from now on) for the first time at CanJam SoCal this year.  The interesting tidbit was that the SDT and Atomic Floyd lineup audition was conducted near the end of the show.  This meant I listened to quite literally every IEM from every manufacturer that I was interested in, and was still thoroughly impressed with the sound the SDT emitted.
 
James Strong is the founder of the United Kingdom-based Atomic Floyd, and I was impressed that he flew all of the way from London to exhibit his Atomic Floyd lineup in Costa Mesa, California.  During our chat, he not only answered my questions, but is just a real genuine guy.  I also thank him for sending me a SDT review sample for the purposes of my opinion.  Out of all of the IEMs that I listened to at CanJam, I gave a shoutout to the SDT for being my favorite mid-priced IEM in my CanJam Show Impressions and Images post.
 
What I wrote above (and after the interview below) was a year ago.  A year?  Yes – see, I wanted to find out more about Mr. Strong, and didn’t want to post a review that wasn’t fully complete, so I waited until I could converse with Mr. Strong.  Thank goodness I was able to interview him at CanJam SoCal 2016 and transcribe my interview with him.  Without further ado:
 
M = Maurice  J = James
 
1) 
M: What gave you the inspiration to create/find Atomic Floyd?
 
J: Long story or short story?
 
M: Short is fine.
 
J: About 20 years ago as a student I was working for a tech company and was exposed to what was happening in 20, 30, 40 years’ time, and I could see immediately that streaming lossless, what we call now streaming lossless audio was going to be a big thing.  I have always had a passion for music, so I kind of realized that headphones, that if the audio quality was going to be huge, and be portable, then headphones were going to naturally be a big thing so I knew that high definition audio, mobile audio, what you see now, was coming a long time ago, so I changed my career and went into the headphone industry about 20 years ago.
 
2)
M: What is your goal for your customers with regards to their experience with your IEMs?
 
J: It's quite similar, we want them to feel good.  That's it.  I just want to bring the music to life in the way it is intended.  I want people to feel - if someone is using headphones for 45 minute commute each way, and it's an hour and a half each day, I want it to be the best, a really good experience, but most importantly, I want it to be more than just a pair of headphones, I don't want it to be just something that's cheap and disposable - it's something very special and if you listening to really good music it (the headphones) should be matching that as well.  The quality and the performance are paramount, but ultimately, I want people to feel good at the end of the day as well...make them happy.
 
M: Right, okay, nice!
 
3) 
M: What was your reason to use Titanium when creating the SuperDarts Titanium?
 
J: So the original SuperDarts was a huge success but a very small percentage of feedback were that the highs were a little bright and if we could reduce the weight it would be even better, so that was really the inspiration, and the titanium helps us, 1: obviously in reducing weight, but another impact is that because it's lighter it also gets a slightly better fit as well.  We find also impacts the kind of sound quality so it's tuned differently but also by using the titanium it also helps to get a better sound.
 
4) 
M: What are your goals for the future with regards to Atomic Floyd?
 
J: Interesting.  So we feel that we are just at the beginning from our story - we have built a great range of products between 150 dollars and 400 dollars - we refer to this as our "Performance Range".  We are two steps away from launching a "Lossless Range", and that's very exciting, but for the moment we are primarily using dynamic drivers.  We are going to be switching into kind of a slightly more complication, more kind of a - more interesting kind of mixes of drivers.  And that's exciting, right, when we get into that?
 
M: Of course! Yeah...I can't wait!  It's going to be good. 
 
5)  
M: Is there anything you would like to add?
 
J: To this, to our discussion?
 
M: Yeah, yeah! Just in general.
 
J: There is a lot of effort, a lot of hard work goes into making products that are a good quality, and I think one of the things that's important I always try to encourage people to remember, is it's not just about buying a product that sounds good out of the box, you want to make sure that you are buying quality, something that sounds good 6 months, 12 months, 24 months down the line and is still performing and I think that durability is something that is really - maybe we don't talk about, but is hidden in the products and one of the benefits of using metal.     
 
M: An extra one... where are your IEMs made/created?  If you do not want me to divulge that in the review, I won’t.
 
J: So we are British-based, but we are very international, so we got guys from loads of different nationalities who work with us, we source components from all different countries; we've got stainless steel that comes from Germany, titanium comes from Japan, cable from Korea, I mean, all over the place.  Although we are British, we are quite international. 
 
 
Prices
 
Here are the prices of audio equipment used in the review:
Atomic Floyd SuperDarts Titanium: $399
Atomic Floyd SuperDarts: $299
EarWerkz (Empire Ears) Supra:  $349 (lifestyle), $429 (universal and custom)
Estron Linum BaX: $82
iPhone 6 (Space Gray, 128GB):  $849.99 or $399.99 with a 2-Year Contract
 
Mentioned audio equipment
 
Shure SE846: $1,000 (or lower if you search online)
Sensaphonics Custom Sleeves: $150 (not including impression and upgraded color fees)
SpinFit Universal Silicone Tips: $10 for 1 pair and $20 for 3 pairs
Tralucent Audio Reference 1: $1,698
 
Software applications used
 
TIDAL HiFi - Lossless
Spotify Premium - Extreme Setting
Neutron Music Player – Mostly 320kbps
 
Warren Chi’s ETHER review that he wrote contains the TIDAL playlist he used to listen to his ETHER.  The playlist sounds great (especially with TIDAL HiFi’s “Lossless/HIFI” setting, and thought it was a canny idea for him to share a playlist that is easily accessible by anyone who is subscribed to TIDAL.  Here’s the link to Warren’s playlist: http://tidalhifi.com/playlist/6d6af6f5-1ee1-4861-b21d-99c8eef0fc4f.
 
 
Epiphany
 
Discovering James Strong and his Atomic Floyd lineup was positive experience for me.  Once he talked about dynamic drivers being a part of most of his lineup, I was curious to find out more.  My main concern was about dynamic drivers possibly failing as I have heard about them failing for some manufacturers.  James explained to me that the dynamic drivers have a much better chance to not fail if the housing that is enclosing the dynamic drivers are ventilated.  The SDT has a ventilated housing, so the risk of the dynamic drivers failing is minimized considerably, and that gave me real peace of mind.  After listening to the SDT and chatting like we were two long lost friends (okay, maybe I was only the one who thought that), I knew for certain I wanted to share my thoughts about this satisfyingly sounding IEM.
 
 
Time to arrive
 
Since the SDT is a universal model, it is available to ship immediately.  Mine was shipped from a U.S. Warehouse, facilitated by Lisa who is the Business Operations Manager of Atomic Floyd.  I received an email saying the SDT would be shipped, and then several days later received a tracking number.  Very professional communication, and I am impressed by the service Atomic Floyd exudes. 
 
 
Packaging and accessories
 
The packaging of the Atomic Floyd series is top-notch, and the unboxing of the SDT is an experience I wish that would never end.  You are initially greeted with a silky feeling Atomic Floyd with logo almost vacuum-sealed bag.  Once you open the bag, you’ll see the SDT box.  The box has vibrant graphics, and the SDT is prominently shown - then you open up a flap and more information is shown “Built For Life”.  This statement alone seems note-worthy.  Opening up the door flap completely, you see a frequency response graph, 3 ways the SDT is fine-tuned for a “spectacular sound”, and a list of the included accessories.  Also, using a peel-off method to expose the included universal tips was a nice touch.
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
 

 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
The SDT comes with an Atomic Floyd pouch case, which is made with durable silicone rubber that fits in your pocket.  It is the smallest and slimmest case that I own, and is a nifty design because there are no zippers to keep it tight.  The cables aren’t going anywhere once you put the SDT in the pouch case.  The SDT also comes with a ¼ adapter, airplane adapter, Small, Medium, and Large of the SoftSeal silicone tips, and Comply Tsx-500 Medium foam tips with integrated wax guard to prevent wax from entering the bore/tube.
 

 
 
Aesthetics
 
The SDT is created using space grade titanium which enables Atomic Floyd to create a lighter, tougher, acoustic chamber, than materials such as steel and aluminum.  The titanium chamber is large enough for increased driver movement, and the vents are placed in a way that they do not look obtrusive or out of place.  Every last bit of the construction and materials used in the SDT are high quality and look like they will weather normal use without issue.  Let’s work our way from the bottom to the top – the high purity gold connector and the titanium plug is gorgeous.  The titanium plug’s circumference is small enough that it can fit in virtually every smartphone/gadget case, which is always an instant plus. 
 
Easily fits in between my iPhone 6 case and holster
  
 
Even though the cables are not detachable, in my 2 months of almost daily use of the SDT, I have not experienced any fraying or signs of deterioration of the integrated cable.  The cable is soft to the touch, and is Kevlar reinforced OFC copper core.  Also, the fabric-weaved cable is one of the easiest that I have experienced when dealing with tangled cables.  The cable retains its straight shape very well, and acts like it is a thicker cable that usually is easier to manipulate.  The cable embodies the usual thick AWG quality that is uncharacteristically encased in an AWG that is thinner than most cables.  Only my Estron Linum BaX cable is thinner, yet entangles by factors compared to the SDT’s cable.  Back to the titanium chamber – the design is such that it not only looks it is created with very high quality components and elements, but it is slim enough to fit in most every ear without any issues.  As a whole, the SDT looks and feels much more expensive than its asking price.
 
High quality construction
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
Weight
 
The SDT weighs very slightly heavier than if it was made out acrylic/plastic instead, but the titanium chamber is still light and still weighs close to nothing: around several grams, each housing. 
 

 
 
 
Fit and Feel
 
Small, Medium, and Large of the SoftSeal silicone tips, and Comply Tsx-500 Medium foam tips
  
 
  
 
 
The fit of the SDT is comfortable and feels almost like you aren’t wearing anything at all.  Choose the universal tips the SDT comes with, or use your own tips - then slide the housings into your ears, and you will be immersed with a non-intrusive feeling that should stay put.  I use SpinFit tips with the SDT, as they fit the SDT’s sound tube without any issue, and since I use the Small size, I can insert the entire tip past the first bend of my ear and pretty deep in the ear canal to experience the most optimal isolation, seal, and frequency response.   Even though I adore custom products such as the Sensaphonics Custom Sleeves, I appreciate an IEM that can fit in my ears without any fit issues as the SpinFit with the titanium combine to provide a superb and light fit.  Also, the titanium will not warm up from your body heat – you should just experience a nice, cool feeling if the titanium is slightly resting on your ears.  You may not notice anything in your ears and just focus on the wonderfully sounding music!
 
SDT stock tips and SpinFit tips
  
 
SDT with SpinFit tips
  
 
  
 
Using silicone tips such as the SpinFit may not be perceived as sounding as warm as the Comply or foam tips and may provide a different sounding experience.   Try different tips to find out which one sounds the best.  As long as you find tips that fit you’ll be okay, as the SDT’s bore is around 5 mm in width, shown here:
 
Bore width
  
 
 
Easy IEM side detection
 
Instead of trying to read the titanium-marked L and R on either housing, remember that the side that has the remote dongle on the cable is the Left side – simple as that!  Now you do not have to look for any markings on the housings that may or may not be difficult to find based on various factors, including not having the best eyesight, or the IEMs may not be in the best lighting to easily distinguish the L and R markings.
 
Remote + Microphone (Left Side)

 
 
Sound impressions
 
The SDT is neutral-based with regards to the balanced armature driver.  The dynamic driver provides the mid bass and sub bass emphasis.  The SDT presents a melded together, hybrid type of sound to its listeners to create an engaging and visceral sensation to the senses.  Listening to the SDT, I was wowed by its punchy and visceral bass presentation, a slightly warm midrange, and non-fatiguing treble.  The sound as a whole is very controlled, tight, and in your face.  There is sufficient instrument placement, and the soundstage is intimate, yet can widen depending on the recording and universal tips used.  The bass at this price point is exemplary and have not listened to an IEM in this price point with the same level of quantity and quality of bass.  The SDT sounds like a warmer (albeit slightly) version of the Supra with more bass, and an overall level of sound that gives me glimpses and indications of the SE846.  The treble is a pleasing and suitable tuned amount and does not leave me craving for more, as the treble may start becoming sibilant if it was tuned any higher.  The midrange – the sound presented is compliant, detailed, yet warm and creamy, like a grilled cheese sandwich using your favorite bread and cheese, with tomato pesto soup.  The bass – oh, the bass!  I adore the bass.  With this said, the bass is not for everyone, as I gave demos of my SDT (as well as many other IEMs from Jude and I [mostly Jude]) at the S.F. Head-Fi Mini Meet, and the impressions from attendee’s auditions were mostly positive.  The ones that liked the bass really liked it and the SDT as a whole, and the ones that didn’t, let me know by saying that the bass comes off as being too much.  This is not a reference or neutral based IEM.  There is bass, and lots of it.  However, the bass is predictable, plentiful, and amazing for lovers of lower frequencies. 
 
What is different about the SDT though, is that not only is the bass the star of the show - even though it may sound and feel that way upon first listen.  The midrange and treble is tuned and presented in such a way that the slightly warm mids and clear highs collaborate with poise.  The entire frequency range is taken care of, with no particular region of the spectrum feeling left out.   Listening to classical tracks sits you in front of the action, with the cymbals, xylophones, violins and other instruments placed as well as the recording presents itself.  Listening to alternative and rock tracks sounds like the guitars, drums, and other instruments used may as well be played by your favorite artists and bands.  R&B and hip hop/rap tracks will enthrall you with their heavy beats, shaking and vibrating your ear canals with the sheer prowess of the sub bass of the SDT.  Not bloated, but admittedly not for the faint of bass heart.  For the price of admission, it isn’t very difficult to get on the SDT train, and ride the experience again and again for yourself.  Quite simply, the SDT’s bass and overall sound signature is addicting and is my favorite for an IEM in the sub four hundred dollar (or lower) range.
 
 
Are your earphones correctly inserted?
 
The frequency response across the full audio spectrum should be smooth, and the bass response should be fully present - that is, if you have a "full, tight seal".  If you have any doubts regarding hearing both earphones equally (assuming you don't have a hearing tested significant FR imbalance), you can self-administer the "Audio Seal" test - it's to help determine if your earphones (Universals/CIEMs) are correctly inserted.  The webpage comes with downloadable and streamable audio files in .mp3 or .wav format.  The test is great to find out if you have a correct insertion and proper fit, and can also reveal other issues other than an incomplete and/or poor seal.  From the webpage: "The test consists of two brief audio tracks.  Both include two sine waves, one at 50 Hz and the other at 500 Hz, played at the same volume.  On one track, the two tones are played together.  On the other track, the tones alternate in 2-second intervals." 
 
Here's the link from Sensaphonics:  www.sensaphonics.com/test.
 
Inserted, but not a deep, fully isolating seal
  
 
Deep, isolating seal
  
 
 
Comparisons
 
I wanted to compare the SDT to an IEM that I use frequently, and that is the Shure SE846, but I feel that there are a couple of other IEMs that sound similarly to the SDT, and will share the differences and similarities between the few.  IEMs such as the EarWerkz Supra, Tralucent Reference 1 and the Shure SE846 are all complimentary of the SDT in their own ways.  Let’s take a closer look on why the SDT holds its weight well compared to the similarly priced Supra and higher priced offerings of the SE846 and Ref. 1.
 
 
Power to drive the SDT
 
Using the iPhone 6, it takes only about half of the entire available volume to listen at a comfortable level, so expect to pump up the volume a few clicks up or tone it down a few clicks to dial in a comfortable listening level.  The SDT is 1 or 2 volume clicks less sensitive than the SE846, but will have no problem being driven sufficiently from virtually any DAP.
 
 
EarWerkz (Empire Ears) Supra

 
 
The bass of the SDT has more quantity and quality than the Supra’s bass.  The reverberation and decay is more apparent as well.  The Supra’s bass would be characterized as being slightly tilted relative to its neutral midrange and highs.  The SDT’s bass is not only a slight tilt, but another entirety in itself, meaning it sounds and feels like a separate subwoofer that can get low and hit with the best of most any IEM in its price range.
 
The midrange is similar to the SDT, especially when the Supra is attached to the stock Pro Series Quad cable.  Both are coherent, forward, with well-placed instruments.  The Supra and SDT’s soundstage and imaging are similar as well, and the part of the sound differences may very well be attributed to the acoustic differences between the driver versions and the structural housing of the IEMs (acrylic versus titanium).
 
The treble of the SDT is slightly less apparent than the Supra, yet both are not fatiguing to the ears.   I would characterize both as being defined, yet smooth.  There shouldn’t be any issues regarding ear-piercing sibilance, either.
 
Remember in my Supra review that it resembled a Mitsubishi Evo in its sound signature?  Well, the SDT is more like a Ford Mustang (immensely powerful and fast), and if this is an IEM that you really enjoy, it may even be personally upgraded to the Boss 302.
 
 
Tralucent Audio Reference 1

 
The bass of the SDT has similar heft and weight as the Ref. 1, but the bass and overall presentation of the SDT is more predictable.   Meaning, the Ref. 1 has a sort of 3D soundstage that seems to have various dips and peaks regarding the midbass through the upper midrange, compared to the more compliant SDT frequency spectrum. 
 
The mids are more expansive and creamy smooth through the Ref. 1.  Contradictory, the midrange of the SDT is more anticipatory – and is also more intimate as a result.
 
The treble continues in the similar midrange comparison, however the treble from both may not be very noticeable because of both of the weighty bass of the SDT and Ref. 1’s weighty and bloomy bass are emphasized.
 
While the sound signature of the Ref. 1 is broad and varied, the SDT comparatively is intimate and controlled.  Both the Ref. 1 and SDT have visceral bass and are not for those seeking the most neutral and or referenced signature.
 
If the SDT is the Ford Mustang, then the Ref. 1 would be a Lamborghini, which is fast, commanding, but can be unstable and can be difficult to drive, as most drivers may need to change the tires, up the suspension, brakes and other items to be able to drive the Lamborghini to a personal comfort level.
 
 
Shure SE846
 
CP800 SpinFit tips (Left/Top) - SCS (Right/Bottom)
  
 
Both the SE846 and SDT have different types of bass.  The SDT uses a dynamic driver, and as a result, sounds like a subwoofer that can go very deep in the low frequency range.   The bass of the SDT is more one-note than the SE846’s balanced armature and low pass filtered bass.  The SE846’s bass is simply more smooth sounding and more versatile.  The SE846’s bass can reach slightly lower frequencies than the SDT, however the SDT’s bass may sound fuller because of the dynamic driver’s inherent capabilities.   The bass is more predictable from the SDT rather than the SE846, mainly because the SDT has a more one-note presentation to it that doesn’t differ very much from song to song, whereas the SE846’s bass emits more when the song calls for it, having more bass intricacy and vocabulary than the SDT.  I enjoy the bass of both the SE846 and SDT, as their different signatures are utterly amazing, especially for the SDT’s price relative to the SE846’s asking price of admission.
 
The mids are more sublime with the SE846 than the SDT and the soundstage and imaging is more apparent and pinpoint with the SE846.  Interestingly enough, I found myself focusing on the sub bass and midrange more with the SDT than the sub bass to the lower treble of the SE846.
 
The treble of the SDT may be heard as slightly more perceived with regards to the upper frequencies compared to the SE846.  On certain songs, I can clearly hear the S’s as more perceived than the SE846.  Using the SCS with the SE846 puts the upper treble perception more in line with the SDT’s treble and elevates every facet of the SE846’s sound signature, fit, and comfort.
 
While the SDT is more like a controlled and visceral car like a Ford Mustang (not known for use in windy tracks/courses, but fast and powerful), the SE846 is more like a technical car like the Mercedes C63 AMG (technical and versatile in its use). 
 
 
Sound signatures
 
What I adore from the SDT is that the sound is like comfort food, you know exactly what you are going to get each time you listen to it.  Pop in the SDT with your tips of choice, and you’ll be treated to a coherent signature that has bass you can hear and feel with authority.  I personally love bass, and can see how there are those that may think the bass is simply “too much”, but I would not change or lower the bass output of the SDT.  Atomic Floyd has its lower priced lineup that is not as bass-heavy as the SDT.  The lower-priced Atomic Floyd SuperDarts are similar to the SDT, but the highs are more accentuated and as a result, the bass of the SuperDarts may be perceived to not be as focused and noticeable as the SDT’s bass.   The remote mic works well with calls, hearing anyone that I'm speaking to with ease.  The SDT is a great way to quickly feed the music to your soul, being comforted the entire time you are listening to the sensational and articulate sound.  
 
 
Ultimate Stress Test™
 
I listened to a test track that I use to assess the acoustic limits of a pair of headphones or IEMs, and playing the track on the SDT turned out to be a satisfactory experience.   There wasn’t anything out of the ordinary that jumped out at me as sounding out of tune or odd sounding.  The track sounded compliant and cohesive, which was a refreshing sound to my ears.  The inherent background distorted hiss of the track was noticeable, yet did not deviate very far from the consistent and complete melodic notes that were emitted.
 
 
Is the SDT right for you?
 
The SDT should be given consideration if you really like bass and a superbly created IEM.  If you are sensitive to bass or do not like too much bass in your sound signature preferences, I would look towards another model like their more treble emphasized SuperDarts.  For the price, you get a quality product that should last the test of time, especially because of its titanium housing.
 
 
Summary
 
The SDT is one uniquely special IEM.  Oodles of dynamic driver bass, which sounds and feels different than most balanced armature driver IEMs, and a vibrant midrange with treble that is tamed, and easier to listen compared to its SuperDarts sibling.  Mr. Strong not only has created a lineup that caters to most listener’s wants and needs, but makes products that should last for many years to come.  The SDT is one IEM that I currently enjoyed the most out his lineup, and am looking forward to what will be available in the future.  The fact that there will be an upcoming “Lossless Range” makes me eager to want to hear what Mr. Strong and the British company have in store for music lovers.  Happy listening!
 
 
Specifications
 

A melding of a smooth and balanced sound, with a very good use of ANC as an option. This earphone is great if you want to drown out the sounds of your kids and possibly loved one, but make sure that you are looking around for them so they won’t completely complain to you!




The case is very nice, as it offers an easy way to remove the earbuds (push at the lighted tip and pull up the earbud end).






The 5! Listening modes are what set this earbud pair apart from most wireless earbuds, in my opinion. The modes are:

Off, Strong (ANC), Mild (ANC), Pass-through, and WNR (Wind Noise Reduction). I usually just stick with the Strong if I’m alone, and Pass-through if I’m with my family.

This blue wireless earbud pair is gorgeous, as it has a beautiful design with good, all-around sound with a clean ANC - makes the ComfoBuds Pro worth the 5.0 stars and a good buy, in my opinion.

For more info about pricing, and specs, go here.

Feel free to contact me on Head-Fi.org (moedawg140), and I can help you out with regards to any questions or inquiries you might have! Take care.

Before I start the review, many thanks to Mr. Takaichi of Massdrop and Mr. Kocen of Dekoni Audio for arranging and sending the complementary earpads to me.

The main thread of the review is created as well so it is easier to read and respond: https://www.head-fi.org/f/threads/r...emium-earpadz-lineup-with-comparisons.853611/

Introduction

It was an overcast, yet warm day at the LA Audio Show a couple of weeks ago, and it was great walking around during the day to try out new headphones and earphones. I ran into my good friend, @XERO1, and he mentioned about how much he really enjoyed the Dekoni Audio Earpadz back at CanJam SoCal earlier this year. I took notice because usually what @XERO1 likes I wind up liking, or found out that we liked a lot of the same product(s) as well. Even though I didn't get to try out the earpads at CanJam SoCal, when they were brought up again by @XERO1 at the LA Audio Show, I took notice, again. Not much that I could do about trying out the earpads, except when I ran into Massdrop's Mr. Takaichi of Massdrop. We talked for a while, and it was great to know that all was good with Massdrop. He got me in contact with Mr. Kocen after we parted ways. Mr. Kocen sent me the TH-X00 earpads lineup, and frankly, I am absolutely floored by not only the supreme quality of the earpads, but how much of a wide range each pair of pads can sound so different compared to each other! If you'd like to read more about my thoughts of the earpad lineup, read on!


Off to a good start

When I let Mr. Kocen know how much I enjoyed his earpads, he responded that it made him feel good to have validation - "...that what we are doing is the right thing to do and gives me motivation to move forward and keep on my quest to create the best balanced, most comfortable, and highest quality ear pads in the world."


Mr. Kocen wanted to make quality earpads. Mr. Kocen goes onto say: "By hearing and, more importantly, listening to our users we can better understand what people are looking for and what they want. It has been very important from the beginning for me to hear what people think so we can adapt."

I'd say that you are doing well, and wish you the best Mr. Kocen -- these pads are really premium, and it's great the pads are compatible with such a multitude of headphones, also!


System used to compare

I listened to the Dekoni Audio Earpadz lineup with the Massdrop x Fostex TH-X00 Ebony (stock configuration), Sennheiser 6.3mm to 3.5mm adapter, and the Questyle Audio QP1R DAP.




Attenuation Rings

Each Massdrop x Fostex TH-X00 stock earpads use an insert, or "attenuation" ring, and to make sure that the Dekoni Earpadz work to its utmost potential, please make sure to purchase and use the Dekoni Earpadz attenuation rings for the replacement earpads -- not just for any perceptible acoustic differences the rings may make, but the rings will protect the earpads from possible tearing as well. I found that the attenuation rings create a more vibrant, energetic sound presentation, and it’s great that you can use them if you like the sound they create, or forgo them if you really don’t like the increased energy the attenuation rings exude.

The Attenuation Rings are easy to install, as shown here:

Take out plastic mounting ring, then insert attenuation ring, like shown


Keep inserting the attenuation ring carefully as to not rip the earpad material


Make sure earpad and attenuation ring holes line up



Re-insert plastic mounting ring and replace earpad onto earcup - repeat for second earpad



Without flash: Velour V2, Premium, Sheepskin, Fenestrated Sheepskin


With flash:Velour V2, Premium, Sheepskin, Fenestrated Sheepskin


Without Flash: Hybrid



Impressions and comparisons

Premium Earpadz



The Premium pads emit boomier overall bass and slightly extended treble compared to the stock pads. Comfort is beautifully soft and very good against the head. The Premium pads use YM80 memory foam, and are just so slightly softer than stock pads. This one would be a direct slight upgrade from the stock pleather pads as overall comfort is slightly heightened compared to the stock pleather pads.

The overall sound of the Premium pads would be the closest in regards to sound and feel to the stock pads than the other available pads that I compared, in my opinion.


Velour V2 Earpadz



The Velour V2 emits a smoother sound, but all frequencies sound deeper, and the sub and midbass lingers just a bit longer because of that extra bit of depth. Not as bright up top as the Premium or stock pleather pads, but emits just a real, rich sound.

Comfort is simply amazing. Pretty cool because I've had other velour pads for other headphones and those were uncomfortable enough to where I felt like I had to change those itchy Velour pads to softer pleather pads. These velour pads, however, feel smooth-to-the-touch, feel buttery on my noggin, and are one of my favorite feeling pads, even though these are velour. The Velour V2 is also much cooler-feeling than other velour pads that feel much warmer on the head, as well!

Love the sound of these pads! - and I feel they are the epitome of the Ebony sound if you are looking for a satisfyingly smooth, warm and deep-sounding signature.


Elite: Sheepskin Earpadz



Immediately I could tell that there was more deliberate bass, and not as boomy as the Premium earpads. I feel this is mostly due to the slightly tacky effect of the sheepskin as it touches your skin - creating the most isolation out of all of the pads that I listened to. Tacky, kind of like how when you receive a new ping pong paddle with new rubber on the blade, the immense "tackiness" of the rubber means it can grab the ball for a bit longer to help induce extra spin to the ball. The tackiness of the Sheepskin allows the pads to stay in place on your head better, and with the most isolation as well, leading to that increase in sub and midbass along and around your face.

The treble is extended to my ears as well. The sound as a whole is slightly more focused than the Premium and Velour. Spatial capabilities are very good as soundstage and imaging is impeccable compared to the Premium and Velour earpads. The sound reminds me a lot like the Purpleheart headphone - a glorious, hard-hitting V-shaped sound. If you want the most overall perceived bass, these are your answer.

Comfort is very good but is more "business-like" as the leather is supple, but not as buttery smooth in texture and overall feel as the Velour V2. The Sheepskin, sound-wise, are my favorite earpads of the lineup, and are the apogee of effortlessly tight, extended bass, a shiny, yet invigorating treble, with a forward, yet clear sounding midrange as well.


Elite: Fenestrated Sheepskin Earpadz



This earpad is the best of all worlds. Nothing is too boomy, nothing is too smooth. This would be the Goldilocks - just right. Lovely bass, extension from lower frequencies to the highest frequencies, and overall depth is superb as well. The sound is focused, with just a hint of smoothness. The Fenestrated Sheepskin sounds like a tamed down Sheepskin, or a jazzed up Velour V2. It is quite literally near the center of sound signature for me compared to all of the Dekoni pads - albeit leaning towards the Sheepskin's sound than the Velour V2's, in my opinion. No issues with any possible smudging or strong smell - as I do smell the process of the Fenstrated Sheepskin, but I can’t smell mine unless I get close to it and smell it like a piece of fruit.

Comfort - simply amazing. Love these earpad's comfort so much. It does also help that when I saw the earpads and put them on my noggin that I am always reminded of the MSRP $4,000 Focal Utopia, as that headphone uses Fenestrated Lambskin as their stock pads. If you want the fancy, highest upscale look, with a feel and just-right sound to match, look no further than the Fenestrated Sheepskin earpads!


Elite: Hybrid Earpadz


I've never seen an earpad created like this! You've got every single pad material of the Dekoni Audio Massdrop x Fostex TH-X00 series that is cut and stitched to create the Hybrid Earpadz.

The Hybrid Earpadz consists of:

· Sheepskin material on the outside wall


· Velour V2 material on the side that touches your face
· Fenestrated Sheepskin material on the inside wall


· Premium material on the backside that touches the rings and earcups


Dekoni also made it so the highest third of the Velour V2 material of the earpad slopes down abruptly, then continues in a downward sloping fashion (more so than the other earpads) as shown here


Comfort-wise, the Hybrid is very similar to the Velour V2 (very comfortable) since the only earpad material of the Hybrid that touches your head is the Velour V2.

The Hybrid is more vibrant sounding than the Velour V2 - there is more energy in the sound as a whole, especially in the lower and upper registers comparatively. Midrange is just slightly more forward with the Hybrid than the Velour V2.

The Hybrid is not as pinpoint in sound and energetic as the Sheepskin - the Sheepskin is still the Bass quantity king. The Hybrid smooths out a lot of the sound of the Sheepskin but not as much as the Velour V2 does. The Sheepskin is more vibrant in the midrange and treble areas as well in comparison.

The Hybrid reaches lower registers and holds them longer than the Fenestrated Sheepskin. The Hybrid has a smoother midrange as opposed to the more energetic midrange of the Fenestrated Sheepskin. The Hybrid is not as crisp up top as the treble is just slightly de-emphasized than the Fenestrated Sheepskin to my ears.

The Premium is more balanced in sound compared to the Hybrid, but doesn't have the depth of sound, particularly in the midbass and subbass areas. The Hybrid's midrange is slightly more forward-sounding than the midrange of the Premium. The Premium smooths out the treble slightly compared to the Hybrid Earpadz.


Are these earpads worth the price of admission?

Simply put: of course, and then some!


Summary

In the end (or beginning for that matter), these earpads are simply sound signature changing beasts! For the fraction of a headphone's price, you can purchase all of the pads and experience a different sound signature based on your mood that day, or time of day! I can not advise to purchase only one pair of earpads -- even though each earpad pair can be purchased based on what you'd like to experience in sound and comfort, but all of them are seriously amazing enough to collect them all, just to experience many different sound signatures and comfort levels with a simple twist of each earpad!

The Dekoni Audio Earpadz are very highly recommended. Coddle yourself with the goodness of the Earpadz, and love the way you listen!


Ordering info

You can purchase the Dekoni Audio Earpadz from Massdrop.com.

The drop page is here: https://www.massdrop.com/buy/dekoni-premium-earpads-for-fostex-th-x00 (search "Dekoni" in the Massdrop site to find it in case the link doesn't take you straight there)

Here is the note about ordering info (base price is $31.99):

Note: This drop is for one pair of ear pads. The Massdrop-exclusive TH-X00 ear pads come in premium memory foam (base price), Elite Velour (base price), elite sheepskin (+ $13), fenestrated sheepskin (+ $38), or Elite Hybrid (+ $20); the T50-RP ear pads come in premium memory foam (base price), Elite Velour (base price), and elite sheepskin (+ $13); and the TH-900 ear pads come in elite sheepskin (+ $13) or fenestrated sheepskin (+ $38). At checkout, you’ll have the option to add the attenuation ring for the TH-X00 ear pads (+ $8). Just slip it into your pad right behind the attachment ring and make sure the holes align properly.

Compatibility

TH-X00 ear pads: Fit Massdrop x Fostex TH-X00; Fostex TH-500RP, TH-610, and TH-900; Denon DX000 series; and EMU Teak

T50-RP ear pads: Fit T50-RP MKII and MKIII, as well as T20-RP and T40-RP

TH-900 ear pads: Fit Fostex TH-600, TH-610, TH-900, TH-900 MKII, TH-X00, and more

The box with USB-C to Lightning cable



Instructions, and such...


This is a DAC/Amp that I believe is worthy of its $139 price tag. How come?

You’ve got not only the extremely resolving mobile DAC/amp that gives you an utterly coherent sound, but you don’t have to worry about the use of on-amp buttons or dials, as the smartphone/device/laptop in use is what is used to provide the volume and other settings.


The USB-C to Lightning cable that I used to connect the M12 to my iPhone XS


Such a slim profile of the Questyle M12


The headphone jack is almost as wide as the M12 itself!


Various technologies including the infamous Current Mode Amplification (check out my QP1R review for a detailed explanation)


The very low-profile design of the mobile DAC/Amp that is the M12


A very slim USB-C port


Compared to the BlueGet, this DAC/Amp offers a more coherent sound. You’ve got the Bluetooth (and slightly muddier sound) as well of the BlueGet, as opposed to the cord-connected nature of the M12 (albeit very slim)! You’ve got several ways to connect to the M12, and the use of the USB-C to Lightning cable provided an instantaneous connection without any issue!


Was I working out? I guess the world will never know.


Connected to the Drop DT 177X Go


If you’re in the mood for an upgraded sound in a minuscule package that doesn’t generate much heat (very worth the 5.0 rating in my opinion), then the M12 is definitely the right fit for you!

For more information, purchasing, and specs, you can go here.

Feel free to contact me on Head-Fi.org (moedawg140), and I can help you out with regards to any questions or inquiries you might have! Take care.

 
 
I tried to post a review only to the review template, but I was unable to because the system stated I was above the maximum character count, hence the review thread creation.
 
My main review is here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/811551/review-meze-headphones-99-classics.
 
Here is the TLR version (my video with comparisons and full review is located in the review thread):
 
 
Is the 99 Classics worth it?

 
If you are interested in a headphone that has a terrific build, a smooth and punchy sound and a price that won’t break the band, the 99 Classics is worth an audition and purchase.  
 
 
Final thoughts
 
...For a one-of-a-kind type of presentation: Walnut earcups, gold hardware and an overall bespoke sound - the 99 Classics is a true performer, inside and out.  Is the 99 Classics the most holographic headphone you will listen to in your life?  Maybe, maybe not.  What the 99 Classics manages to personify is a headphone that you will be proud to present and wear with pride, not worrying about exact technicalities, and to truly get lost in the music for a very comforting experience.

 
Specifications
 

1. Transducer size: 40mm
2. Frequency response: 15Hz - 25KHz
3. Sensitivity: 103dB at 1KHz, 1mW
4. Impedance: 32Ohm
5. Rated input power: 30mW
6. Maximum input power: 50mW
7. Two Detachable Kevlar OFC cables (Length = 4 ft/ 1.2 m and ~9.84 ft/ 3 m)
8. Plug: 3.5mm gold plated
9. Weight: 260 grams (9.2 ounces) without cables
10. Ear-cups: walnut wood
11. Earpad inner dimensions: Length = 6 cm/ 2.36 in X Width = 4.5 cm/ 1.77 in

 
 
 
 
 
 
Introduction
 
Thanks to Archeer for the complementary headphone.  I was asked originally to review a bicycle speaker, and while it probably sounds pretty good (I’ll be publishing my Archeer Bluetooth Speaker review in the near future), I didn’t feel a need for it since I don’t personally bicycle ride anymore.  I saw that Archeer offered a Bluetooth headphone on Amazon, so instead of going with the bicycle speaker, they were able to send me a Bluetooth headphone - which would be getting much use as the time with it went by.  When I first listened to the AH07, I wasn’t blown away from the sound.  Once I let myself listen to it with more sources (such as the Questyle Audio QP1R) and used the cable instead of strictly Bluetooth, I grew into the sound, and happy that I’ve been able to share my thoughts of the headphone with you.  If you’d like to read more...let’s go!
 
 
Audio equipment used in the review
 
Headphone
 
Archeer AH07 Impact Wireless Bluetooth Headphone: $50.99
 
Headphones mentioned and compared
 
1MORE MK802: $129.99
Cleer DU: $129.99 
Massdrop x HIFIMAN HE350: $99
 
Sources
iPhone 6 (Space Gray, 128GB):  $849.99 or $399.99 with a 2-Year Contract
Microsoft Surface Book: Starting at $1,499
Questyle Audio QP1R Golden: $899 USD
 
DAC/Amp
iFi Audio micro iCAN SE: $299
 
Software Applications Used
Spotify Premium – Extreme Setting
TIDAL HiFi – Lossless
 
 
Here’s a video of my family friend DJ JMo giving his thoughts of the Archeer 07!

 
 
Inside the box
 
Archeer AH07
3.5mm cable
Micro USB charging cable
User Manual
 
 
 

Build and aesthetics
 
There is plastic galore, but the brushed aluminum of the sides of the headband provide a tasteful look.  The headband and earpads feel like pleather, and are thick in build, but has a pliable feel when the head and ears touch the pleather.  The headband can also extend a little over an inch on each side, to accommodate smaller and larger-sized heads.  The earcups can rotate forward and back about 45 degrees and in and out about 10 degrees.  The accent of aluminum in the earcups add to the tasteful look as well.  The included 3.5 mm cable is slightly hefty for a cable of that type and allows for more durability, especially with the strain relief on both jacks of the cable.  Buttons and ports on the back of the right side (from the top) denote: Power/Pause/Answer/End button, and volume up/down buttons;  the Micro USB port and 3.5 mm port are on the bottom.
 
 
 

Fit and comfort
 
At 255.5 grams, this headphone is one of the lightest I’ve felt that feels substantial.  Plasticy substantial, but substantial nonetheless.  Fit is very good as there is good play with the earcups, and the headband has easy retractability, even though it fits well without having to retract the headband at all.  The headband is very comfortable, soft pliable pleather, and the earpads are soft, cushy, and doesn’t get hot to my ears, even with extended listening.  Basically, it is one of the most comfortable headphones I’ve ever felt.
 
 
 
Disclaimer and hearing factors
 
The AH07 sound impressions are mainly for anyone wanting a point of reference regarding how they more or less pair with the iPhone 6, QP1R and Surface Book.  Other sources may vary slightly or greatly as the AH07 sounds different enough with these three sources to warrant mentioning.  The AH07 will have a warmer and pronounced effect in the overall bass region when pairing with the iPhone 6.  The AH07 will have a detailed with slight treble and bass with extended detail when paired with the QP1R.  The AH07 will have a more balanced and natural sounding approach to its presentation when paired with the Surface Book.  For reference, the AH07 is fairly easy to drive, as a smartphone such as the iPhone doesn't take full volume for the AH07 to emit levels that can damage hearing pretty quickly.
 
We all hear differently, and our experiences with regards to how our interpretation of what we hear vary greatly.  Some factors that come to mind (and not limited), are:
 
Your inner ear and skull’s overall composition: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/the-unique-vibrations-of-your-skull-affect-how-you-hear-music-654940/?no-ist.
 
Hearing loss as we age, also known as presbycusis: https://www.ohio.edu/news/months/nov1998/111.html,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presbycusis.
 
Heredity, noise trauma, dietary habits, smoking, hypertension, atherosclerosis, are other factors that affect people’s overall hearing ability.
 
 
Analyze this and that
 
The test tracks that I use in my reviews are located in these albums (album alphabetical order)
 
1989 (Deluxe Edition) by Taylor Swift (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
21 by Adele (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Bad (2001 Special Edition) by Michael Jackson (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Bangerz by Miley Cyrus (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
Beyoncé by Beyoncé (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
good kid, m.A.A.d city by Kendrick Lamar (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Heart Blanche by Ceelo Green (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park (FLAC 48.0kHz/24bit)
Make Yourself by Incubus (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
No. 5 Collaborations Project (EP) by Ed Sheeran (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
One by One by Foo Fighters (FLAC 88.2kHz/24bit)
Random Access Memories by Daft Punk (FLAC 88.2kHz/24bit)
Schubert – Berliner Philharmoniker by Nikolaus Harnoncourt (FLAC 48.0kHz/24bit)
The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Thriller by Michael Jackson (DSD 2822.4kHz/1bit)
X (Wembley Edition) by Ed Sheeran (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
 
Several standalone tracks (track alphabetical order)
 
Dock of the Bay by The Persuations – A Cappella Dreams (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
M.O.R. by Blur – Blur 21, Blur (2012 Remaster – Special Edition) (MP3 320kbps 44.1kHz/16bit)
Schubert String Quartet No. 14 in D minor D. 810, Death and the Maiden: III. Scherzo. Allegro molto by Oslo String Quartet – The Schubert Connection (DSD 2822.4kHz/1bit)
Serenade (Spanish Dance), Op. 54, No. 2 by Jano Starker and David Popper – Wilson Audio Ultimate Reference (APE 44.1kHz/16bit)
The Peppery Man by Natalie Merchant – Leave Your Sleep (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
These Bones by The Fairfield Four – I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
 
If I am listening to a product that is not able to be listened with the highest resolution tracks that I have mentioned, I will listen to the TIDAL versions (FLAC).
 
 
Sound impressions
 
The AH07 has a slightly laid back, reference sound.  This is a sound that you can listen to for hours because it doesn’t sound exaggerated on any end of the spectrum.  If you want an exciting-sounding headphone with gobs of bass and super ear-piercing highs, this headphone is probably not for you.  However, the even-keeled acoustic qualities make it for a fantastic sound once your ears get accustomed to the sound, especially if you are coming from more V-shaped sounding headphones.  The bass is not overwhelming, but of reference quality.  The midrange is smooth and competent, and the treble is compliant and doesn’t cause ear fatigue in the least - to my ears.  The headphone is closed-back and won’t sound as spacious or image pinpoint as an open-back, but does a good job conveying the sense of space as best as it can.  The overall sound of the AH07 is surprisingly satisfactory especially because of the headphone’s price point.
 
 
Headphone comparisons
 
Compared to the 1MORE MK802 (in its normal bass setting), the AH07 has less quantity of bass and slightly less treble emphasis.  Spatial capabilities are similar between the two.
 
Compared to the Cleer DU, the AH07 has less quantity of bass and a significant amount of less treble emphasis.  Even though the DU is a closed-back, the DU’s second driver (tweeter) helps to convey a more spacious and image-precise sound than of the AH07.
 
Compared to the Massdrop x HIFIMAN HE350, the AH07 has slightly more quantity of bass and a significant amount less treble emphasis.  The open-back HE350 has a leg up on the AH07’s spatial capabilities.
 
 
Should you modify?

It’s really up to you.  By now you should know that having this headphone as part of your collection (or only headphone) that it is an overall reference sound.  With that said, you may want to dial in modifications to help bring out the bass as well as elevating the treble in the process.  What can you do?

EQ – use your source’s EQ settings to dial in a preferable frequency response to your ears.
Bass Boost or equivalent – use your source’s Bass Boost or equivalent button or switch, as you can with a button press or flip of a switch have immediate results with increased bass with the expense of probably lower perceived treble.

Third-party elemental cables – copper, SPC, silver/gold or silver litz, etc. may help further refine the sound signature of the AH07.

I personally won’t be modifying as I am enjoying the sound signature that the AH07 produces.
 
 
Cultivate a fresh sound™
 
What does this mean?  Too often we focus on only the music we are accustomed to.  I am usually this way as well.  Here’s an opportunity to listen to something you either may not normally listen to, or haven’t heard of.  As I publish reviews in the future, I will have new and older tracks from various genres that I’ve listened to in this section, and will be largely based on what songs really moved me in particular to the reviewed product I’ve listened to on it.  Even though the tracks will be linked to YouTube videos or audio-only versions, the tracks will either be listened solely from the iPhone 6 and TIDAL HiFi - Lossless, or from my Microsoft Surface Book and TIDAL HiFi - Lossless.  Instead of describing each track in immense detail, you can simply listen for yourself and bask in the beautiful music you may have just found for the first time right now!  What’s also great is that you can come back here just to listen to the tracks mentioned!  If you have any personal issues with any tracks posted, please PM me and I'll replace it with another track.  It's all about positivity in our musical journey.  With those kind words of encouragement, here we go…
 
Don't Let Me Down ft. Daya by The Chainsmokers

 
Let It Go by James Bay

Dancing On My Own by Calum Scott

 
Holy War (Lyric) by Alicia Keys

 
 
Is the AH07 worth it?
 
I would say yes.  The AH07 not only fits the head admirably, but sounds satisfactorily reference-sounding and balanced as well.  Let your ears adjust, and you may begin to notice how truly competent the AH07 sounds.
 
 
Final thoughts
 
If you are looking for a headphone that may be one of your most comfortable to wear, offers Bluetooth, sounds costlier than the price offered and won’t break the bank, the AH07 may very well be worth a listen and purchase.
 
 
Specifications
 
Bluetooth Version: 4.0
Talk Time: 14 hours
Standby Time: 540 hours
Music Play Time: 14 hours
Wireless Range: 10 meters
Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP/AVRCP/HSP/HFP
Impedance: 32 Ω
Sound Pressure Level: 118 +/- 3dB
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Weight: 255.5 g
Dimension: 200 x 180 x 65 mm

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Introduction
 
It was a balmy day in San Francisco, the weather fulfilling requests of a windy and slightly damp morning. 
 
While I was setting up tables at the latest San Francisco Head-Fi meet at Burlingame’s Doubletree, I noticed a company that I haven’t heard of before.  Master & Dynamic.  I wondered to myself: “Wow, these headphones look pretty snazzy!  How do they sound?”  Well, I didn’t get to hear their on-ear MH30 and flagship over-ear MH40 that day, but my fiancée was able to try both out, and she liked how they sounded.  I would like to thank Master & Dynamic for sending me a MH30 in exchange for my opinion.
 
Here is the audio equipment used in the review:
 
Headphones
 
B&O PLAY by Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H6 with DJ Khaled – Black Red: $399
Master & Dynamic MH30: $349
Master & Dynamic MH40: $399
 
Sources
 
iPhone 6 (Space Gray, 128GB):  $849.99 or $399.99 with a 2-Year Contract
Surface Pro 2 64GB: $899.99
Questyle Audio QP1R Golden and Space Gray: $899 USD
 
DAC/Amp
 
CEntrance DACport Slim DAC/Amp Combo: $99 shipped in United States
 
Software Applications Used
 
Neutron Music Player – 320kbps
Spotify Premium – Extreme Setting
TIDAL HiFi – Lossless
 
 
Who is Master & Dynamic?
 
Master & Dynamic is a company that is based in New York, as all designs are created there.  They pride themselves with creating not only functional, but timeless designs as well.  What I thought was a fresh take of most companies' missions is that their mission is a philosophy.  Master & Dynamic’s philosophy:
 
“We believe mastery is a never-ending exploration requiring a dynamic approach. Sound is a catalyst and a powerful creative element.
 
We see our headphones as modern thinking caps: tools to help focus, inspire and transport your mind. We build sound tools for creative minds.”
 
If that awe-inspiring quote wasn’t enough to whet your appetite, I was enthralled with this YouTube video of Master & Dynamic describing and demonstrating the design process of their MH40:
 

 
Here is their epic brand video:
 

 
 
I wanted to find out even more about the company, and was greeted with open arms when I requested to interview Master & Dynamic.  Let’s learn more from the founder of Master & Dynamic.
 
Jonathon Levine – Founder and CEO of Master & Dynamic:
 
Jonathan answered these questions:
 
What gave you the inspiration to create the Master & Dynamic lineup?

While visiting a museum in Washington D.C. with my oldest son I came across a pair of old headphones that had withstood the test of time.  The product was both beautiful and durable, and I quickly became a collector of similar models. I knew I wanted to create a range of products that were as timeless and elegant as those museums worthy units, and in 2013 the idea of Master & Dynamic was born. All of our headphones, along with our stands and boom microphones, are built for decades of use, and the marriage of function and form has earned us a loyal following among those that appreciate design, materials, craftsmanship and of course, abundantly great sound quality.

What is your goal for your customers with regards to their experience with Master & Dynamic, and the MH40/MH30 in general?

Each of our products, including our signature MH40 Over Ear Headphone and the MH30 On Ear Headphone, is designed to appeal to the senses.  Acoustically, the headphones provide superior performance across a myriad of musical genres.  Visually, the headphones convey a level of elegance and style never found before in headphones.  They look amazing, whether on the head, or around the neck, as well as when on display in a home, office or studio.  In hand, the tactile nature and quality of the materials become apparent instantly.  The premium materials come together with superior fit, comfort and balance.  

What was your reason(s) to use the somewhat retro design?

As a designer I have always been drawn to industrial elements for inspiration.  Designing and building products using premium materials can be challenging but the extra effort is definitely worth it.  Timelessness demands superior design and materials.  When you see it, feel it, you know it at once.  Every aspect of our headphones is considered, both technically and aesthetically.  The tactile nature of our products remains very important to us.  We are thrilled to have created a suite of products that look as good as they perform.

What are your goals for the future with regards to Master & Dynamic?

We have a very robust product roadmap through 2017 as we continue to redefine what a premium audio company should be.  Expect to see continued growth across the board as well as an accelerated push into wireless products as we continue to establish ourselves as a brand that is among the best in high-end audio.
 
 
Inside the MH30 box
 
    
    
 
   
 
   
 
-Master & Dynamic MH30 box
-Master & Dynamic MH30
-User Manual
-Headphone Case
-Headphone Bag
-Cable and Connector Case
-Standard Cable
-Remote Cable
-1/8 inch to 1/4 inch adapter
 
The MH30 box invites you with its side profiles on the front for visual stimulation, and the back shows entire headphone with enticing text.  What grabbed me was: "At Master & Dynamic, we are obsessed with the interaction between sound and creativity.  Our passion is building beautifully designed, technically sophisticated sound tools for creative minds."  That alone sounds mighty interesting, doesn't it?  Let's see if they live up to the quote, mainly beautifully designed, and technically sophisticated sound tools. 
 
 
Beauty in a box
 
The headphone case is small and elegant, letting the headphone display when the flap is opened, yet can stay safe for transport as its own headphone case.  I feel it is so beautifully constructed, that I would only use it as a case at home, and use a soft/hard headphone case for outside excursions.
 
 
Here are the contents of the user’s manual (click on pictures for larger view)
    
 
    
 
  
 
    
 
    
 
  
 
  

 
The little things make it worthwhile
 
The headphone bag is simple, yet tasteful.  It has a velvet look and feels velvety-soft to the touch.  The magnets and inside pocket to carry cables instead of the cables moving around everywhere in the bag are thoughtful touches.
 
Headphone bag...

 
...with a little pouch inside for cables/accessories

 
Magnetic-snap enclosure

 
 
The cable and connector case is stitched on top with a simple, yet effective close top that is affixed to the case, so you will never lose the close top!
 
Cable and connector case

 
Cable and connector case - opened


 
The cables and connector are top notch.  The silver sheathed/threaded cables feel and look high-quality.  The main cable (measures 79 inches tip to tip) is a length that is easily manageable.  It's better to have longer than shorter cables, as you can always wrap up what you don't need.  With a shorter cable, you cannot.  The remote cable (measures 49 inches tip to tip) is a good short length cable for those that do not want the long cable when walking around with an iDevice.  The remote cable caters to those that want to use it with their iDevice, which is great for people that want to have various controls at their cable.
 
Standard cable

 
Remote cable

 
Sidenote: Make sure that the remote cable is not plugged in upside down, as the remote will not work if it is plugged upside down.  Meaning, make sure the cable is plugged in so the remote is closest to your face/head, so the remote will be able to function correctly.
 
The MH30 and MH40's input connectors allows the use of third party elemental material cables if one so chooses. 
 
The 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch adapter is also thoughtful because the actual silver housing of the adapter is super slim, so it can fit in virtually all DAC/amp 1/4 inch ports.
 
An ingenious feature that the MH30 and MH40 offers are magnetic earpads.  This means changing earpads is quite possibly the easiest task that one can do compared to other headphones that do not have the magnetic earpads feature.
 
Magnetic earpads

 

 
It's awesome that both MH30 and MH40 can have the cable going on the left side or right side, which caters to both left handed and right handed individuals.
 
M&D embossed on cable jack

 
 
There's more to love
 
Master & Dynamic embodies masterful construction, but is still able to create a light weight over-ear MH30 that feels very comfortable, encompassing a warm and musical sound.  Using cowhide, lambskin and stainless steel will allow the product to literally grow and mature like a fine wine, becoming even more like an heirloom as time goes on.  The solid construction of the MH30 might very well make it worth more than the price it's asking in 20 years’ time.
 
Immaculate construction...
    
 
   
 
  
 
    
 
  
 
You can also choose from marked telescoping mechanism "0" up to "4" with regards to headband height position, which makes setting both sides the same exact height very easy.
 
Height adjustment, made easy

 
Also, I did not know that the MH30 and MH40 offered this feature until opening up the boxes, but the "tandem" headphone sharing is a very smart decision, and coupled with the long headphone cables, two people can stand a few feet away from each other while both listen to the same song at the exact same point on the same source.  “Simply brilliant” is what I think of the feature.  Note that the tethered headphone will not have 100% the volume or fidelity as the main headphone connected to the source, but it is still a great way to share your favorite tunes with anyone you choose!
 
Tandem action of MH40 (main headphone) and MH30 (tandem headphone)

 
Closer shot of tandem action of MH40 and MH30

 
 
How does the MH30 sound?
 
My friend who is used to listening to Bose headphones had his jaw dropped as I played different remastered Michael Jackson's songs via iPhone 6’s Tidal HiFi – Lossless and MH30.  He was also amazed that the MH30 and MH40 (and any other headphone with same connector for that matter) could be played in tandem, with two headphones listening to one iPhone 6!  It was so nice tandem smiling, moving our heads in unison and listening to the same song as well as the same beat!  It was like our own mini concert, and I was the conductor of the orchestra - in this case, the orchestra was all in my iPhone 6, playing Tidal. 
 
In the end of listening to both he told me that the MH40 sounded very open, and thought that there are sounds coming from different areas of the backyard where we were listening.  He also told me that they were the best headphones that he ever listened to.  He let his wife, two daughters and son listen to both.  They were all blown away.  His wife told me the MH30 had a “more bassier” sound, and preferred the MH40 that had more treble in the music than the MH30.  He loved how the MH30 sounded, and could only muster one word when listening: “Wow!”
 
 
Easy, like Sunday morning
 
The MH30 has a natural radiance

 
The MH30 is sensitive and very easy to drive, about the level as most of the IEMs that I have listened to or own.  There is not caveat that I have experienced regarding hiss because of the sensitivity, as the MH30 sounded great with no perceived hiss on various types of sources such as my iPhone 6, Questyle QP1R, Surface Pro 2 and Surface Pro 2 + CEntrance DACport USB DAC/amp combination! 
 
The MH30 is scalable, meaning as you feed it higher quality amplification and/or a higher quality DAC and/or digital audio player, you will be rewarded with even more crisp clarity, even harder-hitting midbass and subbass. 
 
The MH30's midbass and subbass most notably shines with higher quality DAC/Amps, and the overall frequency spectrum shines with feeding the MH30 higher quality components. 
 
The MH30’s midrange is thick and slightly raspy, and the treble is light on its feet, rolled off, but almost infinitely easy to listen because of these inherent qualities. 
 
The MH30's spatial capabilities are more apparent with mastered, high quality tracks, and comparatively the MH40's spatial capabilities broaden with greater finesse and panache when higher quality components are utilized. 
 
Using the MH30 with higher-fidelity sources and applications such as Tidal HiFi – Lossless and Questyle’s QP1R resulted in head-bopping and finger-snapping.  Not just Sunday morning, but any day is a great day to listen to the MH30!
 
 
Here is my brief review of the MH30 and comparison with the B&O PLAY by Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H6 with DJ Khaled – Black Red and MH40 in my QP1R review:
 
“The QP1R powers the MH30 to very loud levels.  The MH30 is made for iPhone and comes with a remote cable.  As a result of being created for the iPhone, the headphones are sensitive and easy to drive.  The QP1R is overkill power-wise, but it is great that there is so much headroom.   The headphone is light on the head, but the sturdy steel and leather construction makes it a quality created headphone.  The MH30’s earpads are attached by magnets and are easy to pull off to clean or replace. The MH30 has more bass slam and midbass presentation than the H6 DJ Khaled and MH40, but the overall presentation is more resolving on the H6 DJ Khaled and MH40.  The overall sound is simply fun and engaging, causing you to bop your head or smile from ear to ear when you listen to the lower midrange, bass and subbass.  The treble has a non-fatiguing presentation, but you can hear remnants of it if you focus on it, which may be a little difficult because of the enthralling subbass that may reel you in.  For those who want a methodically created and recreational sounding on-ear headphone for a price that will not elicit groans from your wallet, the MH30 is a clever choice.”
 
MH30, MH40 and HIFIMAN HE1000 (for size reference)

 
 
Service
 
When all things regarding competing companies are equal or close to, usually service is the area where companies can make or break their name and legacy.  Master & Dynamic’s PR Coordinator Andrew Gretchko, was professional and responded to my inquiries quickly.  Overall customer service is exemplary, and could not ask for anything more.  Master & Dynamic gets my wholehearted vote as a company to do business with!
 
 
Final summary
 
In the end, or the beginning, I feel the MH30 is not just beautifully designed, but elegantly created as well.  The MH30 is easily one of the most thought out and exemplification of the marriage of form, function, and enthralling sound.  Happy listening, everyone!
 
 
MH30 Specifications
 
Master & Dynamic MH30 Specifications
 

1. Model: MH30
2. Dimensions: 195mm x 190mm x 40mm
3. Drivers: 40mm Neodymium
4. Impedance: 32 ohms
5. Weight: 260g
6. Materials: Cowhide x lambskin leather, stainless steel, aluminum, detachable woven cable
7. Cable: Detachable 1.25m cable with remote and mic and 2.00m standard cable
8. Cable Material: Oxygen Free Copper Conductors (OFC)
9. Headphone Connection: Dual 3.5mm standard jack
10. Ear Coupling: Supra-aural
11. Microphone Type: Omni-directional
12. Ear Pads: Detachable lambskin memory foam
13. Apple Compatibility: The remote and mic are supported only by iPhone 3GS or later, iPad, iPod Touch (2nd generation or later), iPod Classic (120GB, 160GB), and iPod Nano (4th generation or later). The remote is supported by iPod Shuffle (3rd generation or later). Audio is supported by all iPad and iPod models.

Before I start the review, I would like to thank Massdrop for the complementary earphone.

The review thread is located here: https://www.head-fi.org/f/threads/review-massdrop-x-nuforce-edc-in-ear-monitors.854273/.


Introduction

Massdrop is back at it again - this time with a budget-friendly IEM. Their premise is that this specific NuForce is designed to be carried every day with you, as Massdrop has added the “EDC” or otherwise known as “Every Day Carry”. I’ll take a closer look at this IEM to find out if I feel that the NuForce should not only have the EDC name attached to it, but, should you carry it everyday with you to listen to your tunes as you walk, wait, or want to mute the world around you? Read more to find out!


Audio equipment used in the review

Earphone
Massdrop x NuForce EDC In-Ear Monitors: $59.99

Earphones mentioned and compared
1MORE EO323 Dual Driver: $69.99
FiiO F5: $79.99
Meze Headphones 11 Neo Gun Metal: $59.00
Sennheiser CX 686G Sport: $69.95
SHOZY Zero: $50
SoundMAGIC E80 In-Ear Headphone: £64.99 (~$84.00)

Sources
iPhone 6: (Space Gray, 128GB): $849.99 or $399.99 with a 2-Year Contract
Microsoft Surface Book: Starting at $1,499
Questyle Audio QP1R Golden: $899 USD

Software Applications Used
Spotify Premium – Extreme Setting
TIDAL HiFi – Lossless


Inside the box

Open the box, and you’ll see:

1 Massdrop x NuForce EDC In-Ear Monitor
2 Cables (one braided, one with remote/mic)
3 Sets of silicone ear tips (S, M, L)
2 Sets of foam ear tips (M, L)
1 Zippered carrying case

Also, the final version of the Massdrop x NuForce EDC (otherwise known as “EDC” in this review) housing will be slightly lighter blue in color than the ones that I have, which is more of a dark midnight blue hue to the housing.






Build and aesthetics

Solid cables and connectors


Internally, the EDC utilizes a 6 millimeter dynamic per side, that are claimed to be closely matched on each side.

The housing is a glossy plastic on the outside, and the side that touches your ears is a soft, smoother matte plastic that fits the contours of the ear very well. Weight is very minimal at 15 grams with the braided cable and 16 grams with the remote/mic cable.

The connectors use a proprietary 2-pin connector that can only be inserted one way, which helps not only make bending the 2-pin cable that much more difficult, but allows for no twisting of the cable at the connector, which aides when moving around.

One supplied cable is a basic-looking cable, with remote and mic attached to it for taking calls. The other supplied cable is a braided cable that I would like to call “the audiophile cable”. Why do I say that? Well, for one thing, this braided cable doesn’t use a remote or mic, and based on who you speak to or what you read the use of a remote or mic may adversely affect the end sound that is heard, compared to a cable that doesn’t use a remote or mic. What’s good is that both cables are available and you can choose the one that’s best for your wants and needs.

The EDC’s use the thinnest non-wire memory wire for both of the cables that I’ve ever seen or felt. The cable’s memory wire overmolding is so thin that you have to actively search for the molding, especially on the braided cable. Absolutely amazing!

Both cables use L-shaped jacks, which help thwart against accidental cable pulls from device ports. The remote/mic cable has strain relief at the end of the jack, and the braided “audiophile cable” utilizes no strain relief.

Overall the earphone as a whole is designed well, is lightweight and is stuble to look at.


Fit and comfort

Glory to goodness, this is where the EDC truly shines, in my opinion. Fit is one of the easiest to obtain, as the housing is the right size for most ears, and using different supplied tips should be enough to fit without issue. Add in the very comfortable memory wire overmolding, and you have a recipe for a true, hassle-free fit and feel.


Isolation

This ties into fit, for me, because if the fit of an earphone is good, then isolation should be good as well. In this case, isolation doesn’t disappoint. For those that have read my reviews in the past, you know that I usually only use silicone eartips. Using the supplied silicone tips are enough for me to obtain a satisfying, isolated feel. If you use foam tips, expect there to be even more isolation from the outside world, if that’s what you are attempting to obtain.


Eyeglass and sunglass wearers

Even though the EDC is not a hang-straight-down earphone, the utter thinness of the EDC’s memory wire overmolding shouldn’t hinder eyeglass and sunglass wearers very much, if at all.


Working out

I wanted to see how working out with the EDC would turn out, so I ran from the beach to my Jazzercise class (about a mile distance) with the QP1R in tow, and the EDC passed with flying colors. I didn’t have the housing move, and the increase of the bass really helped drown out the outside world, and gave me motivation to run that much faster on the way to Jazzercise. It kind of helped that there was a lady directly to the left of me running on a snazzy woodchip path - I had to at least keep up with her!


To EDC or to not EDC?

EDC. This is very important. Why is this so important to me? We can only take and carry around so many things with us day-to-day, and you only take the most important items with you. With regards to bringing earphones with you day to day, sound quality is important, but in my opinion, not the most important thing when it comes to being out and about. If that was the case, we would be lugging around huge speakers attached to a generator! Okay...that isn’t very practical to say the least. We could also bring really expensive earphones that sound great attached to an amplifier. Sometimes that’s not very practical as well, not only for the footprint the attached amplifier has, but because these components can get lost, or unfortunately, stolen. Enter the Massdrop x NuForce EDC. Is the EDC the most resolving signature out there? No but for the price-point, the signature is not too shabby! However, the EDC sounds good enough to keep with you each day, and it won’t break the bank if something were to happen to the EDC. What I usually use day to day are not the most expensive in-ears - I’ll use something that sounds good, but more importantly feels good. I won’t use something out and about if it doesn’t feel good. I usually use super comfortable customs; some may not even sound that great, but they feel really good, so those are what I use when out and about. Same case with the EDC, here. It feels very nice to the ears, and are easy to slip on and off when needing to insert them on and off when out and about. The EDC is very good enough to become an EDC, in my opinion.


Disclaimer and hearing factors

The Massdrop x NuForce EDC sound impressions are mainly for anyone wanting a point of reference regarding how they more or less pair with the iPhone 6, QP1R and Surface Book. Other sources may vary slightly or greatly, as the EDC sounds different enough with these three sources to warrant mentioning. The EDC will have a warmer, less resolute and pronounced effect in the overall frequency spectrum when pairing with the iPhone 6. The EDC will have a detailed with slight treble and bass with extended detail when paired with the QP1R. The EDC will have a balanced, yet very slightly lean sounding approach to its presentation when paired with the Surface Book. For reference, the EDC is easy to drive, as a smartphone such as the iPhone does not take full volume for the EDC to emit levels that can damage hearing quickly. 10-11 out of 16 volume is when the EDC starts to sound very loud to my ears.

We all hear differently, and our experiences about how our interpretation of what we hear vary greatly. Some factors that come to mind (and not limited), are:

Your inner ear and skull’s overall composition: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart...kull-affect-how-you-hear-music-654940/?no-ist.

Hearing loss as we age, also known as presbycusis: https://www.ohio.edu/news/months/nov1998/111.html,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presbycusis.

Heredity, noise trauma, dietary habits, smoking, hypertension, atherosclerosis, are other factors that affect people’s overall hearing ability.


Analyze this and that

The test tracks that I use in my reviews are located in these albums (album alphabetical order)

1989 (Deluxe Edition) by Taylor Swift (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
21 by Adele (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Bad (2001 Special Edition) by Michael Jackson (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Bangerz by Miley Cyrus (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
Beyoncé by Beyoncé (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
good kid, m.A.A.d city by Kendrick Lamar (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Heart Blanche by Ceelo Green (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park (FLAC 48.0kHz/24bit)
Make Yourself by Incubus (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
No. 5 Collaborations Project (EP) by Ed Sheeran (MP3 320kbps/44.1kHz/16bit)
One by One by Foo Fighters (FLAC 88.2kHz/24bit)
Random Access Memories by Daft Punk (FLAC 88.2kHz/24bit)
Schubert – Berliner Philharmoniker by Nikolaus Harnoncourt (FLAC 48.0kHz/24bit)
Shades of Marmalade by Jackson Breit (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)
Thriller by Michael Jackson (DSD 2822.4kHz/1bit)
X (Wembley Edition) by Ed Sheeran (FLAC 44.1kHz/16bit)

Several standalone tracks (track alphabetical order)

Dock of the Bay by The Persuations – A Cappella Dreams (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
M.O.R. by Blur – Blur 21, Blur (2012 Remaster – Special Edition) (MP3 320kbps 44.1kHz/16bit)
Schubert String Quartet No. 14 in D minor D. 810, Death and the Maiden: III. Scherzo. Allegro molto by Oslo String Quartet – The Schubert Connection (DSD 2822.4kHz/1bit)
Serenade (Spanish Dance), Op. 54, No. 2 by Jano Starker and David Popper – Wilson Audio Ultimate Reference (APE 44.1kHz/16bit)
The Peppery Man by Natalie Merchant – Leave Your Sleep (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)
These Bones by The Fairfield Four – I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit)

If I am listening to a product that is not able to be listened with the highest resolution tracks that I have mentioned, I will listen to the TIDAL versions (FLAC).


Sound impressions

The EDC is an earphone that has a rather warm, adequate sound signature. The sound is not very expansive, but has adequate depth. The treble is rolled off the top, and shouldn't be fatiguing to you in the least. The midrange is present, warm and adequately smooth, but is more apparent in the lower midrange as having any type of prominence, compared to the treble. The midbass is where you will more than likely hear most of the EDC’s signature, with a bit of sub and overall bass as well. With a good seal, and while you are out and about the EDC can sound satisfactorily good. When out and about, you may want the bass levels to be slightly elevated to help further drown out surrounding outside frequencies. I know that when I went for my run, it was great still being able to decipher the EDC’s bass rather well as my feet hit the pavement and outside noise surrounded me. Overall spatial capabilities aren't the EDC’s specialities, as imaging and soundstage aren't the most pinpoint or wide in perceived listening. What I do like though is the EDC's smoothness, and depth of sound in the lower midrange to subbass areas. The fantastic fit and comfort of the EDC for me makes obtaining a consistent, smooth sound very easy.


Earphone comparisons

The selected comparisons to the EDC, below, are with earphones that are around the price range of the EDC. If you’d like a comparison of an earphone that is not mentioned in the review or is not located in my profile, feel free to message me and send me anything you’d like that can then be added to the review. Without further ado…

1MORE EO323 Dual Driver


The EDC has a slightly more V-shaped presentation than the Dual Driver. The Dual Driver has more sub and midbass than the EDC, reaches lower and has more decay to each bass note as well. The midrange isn't too far apart, but the EDC gets the nod for the more detailed midrange, and the Dual driver gets the nod for the smoother, warmer midrange. The treble doesn't favor either very much, but the EDC will have slightly more sheen up top. Spatial capabilities are both quite constrained compared to others on this list like the E80 that's coming up in the comparisons section.

FiiO F5


The F5 has a more overall balanced signature than the EDC, but is still leaning towards a bass sloped signature. Both the F5 and EDC have a non-fatiguing treble, but the F5 emits just a bit higher/more to my ears comparatively. The midrange of the F5 is more of a reference sound compared to the warmer (but not necessarily smoother) midrange of the EDC. The bass of the F5 is more pinpoint than the EDC and the F5 is just as hard hitting, if not more than the lowest areas the EDC can go. Not only the sound is what will determine either (or both purchases), but packaged goodies as well. The EDC comes with a case, remote/mic cable, braided cable and the F5 comes with a hard case, remote/mic cable, and a 2.5mm Balanced Cable. Both IEMs are detachable, but the EDC uses the more venerable proprietary type of connectors which lead to the cables staying in place better, and the EDC is better fitting to my ears than the F5. I can wear the EDC for hours without pain, whereas the F5 can start to aggravate certain areas of my ear after listening for some time (at least).

Meze Headphones 11 Neo Gun Metal


There is more overall warmer and deeper sounding emphasis with the EDC, especially in the subbass areas compared to the Neo Gun Metal. The Neo Gun Metal’s midrange is slightly more recessed than the EDC, and the treble has a bit more sheen than the EDC’s. Spatial capabilities favor the Neo Gun Metal, as the increase in perceived treble and slightly looser overall fit assists in more perceived airiness and clarity. Both IEMs are comfortable, but the curved housing of the EDC favors the ears more comfortably than the curves of the Neo Gun Metal, which is also a very comfortable in-ear to wear as well. The Gun Metal cable is microphonic if I touch the cable while the IEM is in my ears, as opposed to the EDC, which doesn’t exhibit anywhere near the same amount microphonics.

Sennheiser CX 686G Sport


The CX 686G Sport has a more forward overall signature, with emphasis in the subbass and lower midrange, compared to the EDC. Bass is slightly tighter and more deliberate, compared to the EDC’s. The midrange of the CX 686G Sport is more forward, with a similar laid-back treble presentation as the EDC. Soundstage and imaging slightly favors the CX 686G Sport, and depth, warmth and smoothness favors the EDC. Both IEMs are very comfortable - the CX 686G Sport utilizes an adjustable ear hook that can be positioned higher if need be; the lowest position fits the best for me.

SHOZY Zero


The sound of the Zero is colder and has less oomph and emphasis in each area of the frequency spectrum except treble, compared to the EDC. Overall clarity of the Zero is less if you are factoring in smoothness, which the Zero’s signature can sound harsh in direct comparison to the EDC. The EDC is smoother, warmer and has better decay capabilities in the midrange and bass areas compared to the Zero. The Zero sounds more open and brighter - but at a tradeoff of less lower region panache, compared to the EDC. The Zero is comfortable, as the wooden housing is small enough to rest against the cavum of the ear. The wooden housing is soft as well - so even though it won’t be as ultimately comfortable as the soft plastic of the EDC, the Zero is still very comfortable, in my opinion.

SoundMAGIC E80 In-Ear Headphone


The E80 has overall more clarity, but doesn’t have the deep, smooth warmth of the EDC. The sound of the E80 is tighter and is more of a reference sound compared to the EDC. Treble of the E80 is plentiful but isn’t sibilant, midrange - primarily the upper midrange is more forward compared to the rest of its presentation and that of the EDC as well. Bass is taut, fast, but does not decay to the effect of the EDC. Imaging, detail and soundstage favor the E80 compared to the EDC. The E80 is reference and pinpoint detail compared to the smoothness warmth and sustained decay of the EDC. The E80 is another comfortable in-ear, as the small dynamic driver leads to a small cylindrical housing and rubberized end cable that rests well against the ear. Fit will still ultimately favor the EDC, mostly in workout situations when you are moving around and possibly sweating.


Cultivate a fresh sound™

What does this mean? Too often we focus on only the music we are accustomed to. I am usually this way as well. Here’s an opportunity to listen to something you either may not normally listen to, or haven’t heard of. As I publish reviews in the future, I will have new and older tracks from various genres that I’ve listened to in this section, and will be largely based on what songs really moved me in particular to the reviewed product I’ve listened to on it. Even though the tracks will be linked to YouTube videos or audio-only versions, the tracks will either be listened solely from the iPhone 6 and TIDAL HiFi - Lossless, or from my Microsoft Surface Book and TIDAL HiFi - Lossless. Instead of describing each track in immense detail, you can simply listen for yourself and bask in the beautiful music you may have just found for the first time right now! What’s also great is that you can come back here just to listen to the tracks mentioned! If you have any personal issues with any tracks posted, please PM me and I'll replace it with another track. It's all about positivity in our musical journey. With those kind words of encouragement, here we go…

Your Song by Rita Ora


That’s What I Like by Bruno Mars


The Future by San Holo (ft. James Vincent McMorrow)


I'm Still Standing (SING Movie Soundtrack) by Taron Egerton



Is the Massdrop x NuForce EMU worth it?

I would say so, yes. For a budget price, you get better than average sound with an overall excellent fit because of the curved, soft-to-the-touch inside housing and one of, if not the best implementations of memory wire that I’ve experienced.


Final thoughts

In the beginning of the review, you wanted to find out if I think you should carry it everyday with you, especially because of the EDC moniker? Sure, why not? The EDC is discrete, it’s got more than one type of cable based on your specific needs, sounds great - especially for working out, and...it feels uber comfortable for a universal in-ear!

Pocket yours, and stay smooth!


Specifications

Massdrop x NuForce

• Driver unit: Single 6mm dynamic
• Driver matching: +/- 2 dB
• Housing material: Lexan Polycarbonate
• Color: Smoky transparent blue/gray, matte black
• Impedance: 16 ohms
• Maximum input power: 2 mW
• Microphone sensitivity: -42 dB +/- 5 dB
• Frequency response: 20 Hz–40 kHz
• Sensitivity (at 1 kHz): 90.5 dB +/- 3 dB
• Cable length: 54.3 in (138 mm)
• Connector: 2-pin
• Plug: ⅛ in (3.5 mm) TRS (braided cable) or TRRS (remote/mic cable)
• Remote/mic cable compatibility: Apple and most Android devices
• Remote/mic cable functionality: Play/pause; start/end call; next/previous song; start Siri, Google Assistant, or Cortana (functionality varies between Android devices)
• Weight, IEMs with braided cable: 0.5 oz (15 g)
• Weight, IEMs with remote/mic cable: 0.6 oz (16 g)

Included

• 2 Cables (one braided, one with remote/mic)
• 3 Sets of silicone ear tips (S, M, L)
• 2 Sets of foam ear tips (M, L)
• 1 Zippered carrying case

Shipping

All orders will be shipped by Massdrop.

Estimated ship date is Oct 12, 2017.