Headphones

Sennheiser HD600: Starting at $349.99, these headphones are renowned for their exceptional sound quality and comfort. The open-back design and high-quality drivers provide a natural, balanced sound with precise imaging and a wide soundstage. Ideal for critical listening and mastering, the HD600 offers a transparent audio experience that reveals every detail of your music. The lightweight construction and plush ear pads ensure long-term comfort.

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Audeze LCD-X: At $1,199, the LCD-X headphones are celebrated for their planar magnetic drivers, delivering unparalleled clarity and detail. Designed for audiophiles and professionals, these headphones offer a rich listening experience with a wide soundstage and deep, accurate bass response. Premium materials, including leather ear pads and a carbon fiber headband, ensure durability and comfort.

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In-Ear Monitors (IEMs)

Strauss & Wagner EM8C: Priced at $49.99, these IEMs are designed for clarity and balance, offering excellent isolation. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit for long listening sessions and the high-quality drivers deliver precise sound across the frequency spectrum. These IEMs terminate directly into USB-C, making them compatible with most phones without an adapter.

Audio46 Amazon Strauss & Wagner

Sennheiser IE200: For $149, the IE200 IEMs deliver high-fidelity sound in a compact design. Featuring Sennheiser’s signature audio quality, these IEMs provide a balanced soundstage with rich bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs. The design ensures a comfortable fit and excellent noise isolation.

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Campfire Moon Rover: At $1,199, the Moon Rover IEMs offer a celestial audio journey with meticulously tuned drivers and premium build quality. These IEMs deliver rich sound and exceptional comfort, making them ideal for both casual listeners and dedicated audiophiles.

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Accessories

Final Audio Ear Tips: These ear tips are engineered for a snug fit, enhancing noise isolation and overall audio performance. Made from high-quality materials, they ensure long-lasting comfort and durability.

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Dekoni Foam Ear Tips: Known for their premium foam material, Dekoni ear tips conform to your ear shape, offering superior comfort and isolation. They enhance the fit and sound quality of your IEMs.

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Strauss & Wagner Cables: Designed for superior signal transmission and durability, these cables ensure a reliable and high-fidelity audio experience. The Sion MMCX cable is a notable option, but there are plenty of other models to explore.

Audio46 Strauss & Wagner

Effect Audio Cables: Renowned for tremendous craftsmanship, these cables offer flexibility, durability, and enhanced audio performance. The Maestro MMCX cable is a standout, but explore their other models to find the perfect upgrade.

Audio46 

Storage

Strauss & Wagner SW-HS01: This headphone stand combines elegant design with sturdy construction, providing a stylish and practical solution for storing your headphones.

Audio46 Strauss & Wagner

Dekoni Audio Headphone Savior V2: This universal headphone case features a rugged exterior and a plush, customizable interior to protect your headphones during transport. It also includes ample space for cables and other items.

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Wireless Earbuds

Beyerdynamic Verio 200: Priced at $219, these wireless earbuds offer a seamless audio experience with advanced Bluetooth technology and a fully open design. They provide excellent sound quality, long battery life, and a comfortable fit.

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Sennheiser Momentum TWS 4: Designed for audiophiles on the go, these wireless earbuds offer superb sound quality, active noise cancellation, and a sleek design. They provide a premium listening experience with long battery life and intuitive touch controls.

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Wireless Headphones

Strauss & Wagner ANCBT501: At $149, these headphones combine high-fidelity drivers with ergonomic design, offering superior sound quality and comfort for audiophiles on the go.

Audio46 Strauss & Wagner

Sony WH-1000XM5: Known for exceptional noise-canceling capabilities and premium sound quality, these $398 headphones offer a comfortable fit and advanced features, including adaptive sound control and long battery life.

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Focal Bathys: At $699, these luxurious headphones deliver high-resolution audio with advanced driver technology and elegant design, offering an immersive sound experience.

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DAC/AMPs

iFi Zen DAC 3: Priced at $229, this DAC offers high-resolution audio conversion with a compact, stylish design. It delivers rich detail and clarity, making it an excellent choice for upgrading your audio setup.

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Ferrum Erco 2: At $1,795, this high-performance DAC is designed for audiophiles seeking the ultimate in audio fidelity. Its innovative design ensures pristine sound quality with remarkable detail and accuracy.

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Digital Audio Players (DAPs)

Sony Walkman NW-A306: At $349, this portable digital audio player delivers high-resolution audio with a nice design and advanced features, providing an exceptional listening experience.

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Fiio M17: This flagship DAP offers great sound quality with advanced DACs, robust build, and intuitive controls, perfect for audiophiles seeking top-tier portable audio performance.

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Astell & Kern SP3000T: Combining cutting-edge technology with exquisite design, this DAP delivers exceptional sound quality and user-friendly interface, making it a top choice for discerning audiophiles. Oh and did we mention it’s powered by tubes?

Audio46 

Streamers

iFi Zen Stream: At $399, this audio streamer delivers high-resolution audio from your favorite streaming services, providing seamless connectivity and exceptional sound quality.

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Eversolo DMP-A8: Priced at $1,980, this high-fidelity digital music player and streamer offers exceptional audio performance and user friendly interface, making it a great choice for audiophiles.

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Portable DAC/Amps

Questyle M15i: This $249 dongle DAC/amp delivers impressive sound quality in a compact form, perfect for high performance on the go.

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Chord Mojo 2: This portable DAC/amp offers outstanding sound quality with advanced digital processing technology. It provides a rich, detailed audio experience in a robust package.

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Full-Sized Amps

iFi Zen CAN 3: At $229, this high-performance headphone amplifier delivers powerful and precise audio, with versatile connectivity options and robust build quality.

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Fiio K19: Priced at $1,349.99, this versatile headphone amplifier offers excellent sound quality and power, making it a great addition to any audio setup.

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Enleum HPA-23RM: At $2,999, this high end headphone amplifier combines cutting edge technology with modern design, offering exceptional sound quality and power.

Audio46 

Final Thoughts

Each of these products has been selected for their unique qualities and performance, so that there is something for every audiophile. Start or continue your audio journey with confidence by choosing from our curated list of top audio equipment.

The post Audiophile Must Haves for Beginners and Veterans appeared first on Major HiFi.

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x

Coming up first at just $99, we have the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x studio monitor headphones. This is a very versatile contender. Meant as a production headphone, the ATH-M40x, along with its older sibling, the M50x, Has become a staple in studios and production spaces due to its excellent sound quality, lightweight design, and solid durability. The M40x excels in sound separation, making it ideal for music creation and pinpointing flaws in mixes. While it doesn’t have the deep bass response of the M50x or M60x, it still performs well. The M40x offers a neutral, transparent high end and mid-range, optimal for music creation and casual listeners who prioritize detail retrieval in their headphones. 

Sivga SV003

Also coming in at about $99, the Sivga SV003 offers some more audiophile features that contrast with the ATH-M40x. For starters, the SIVGA SV003 headphones feature a real wood housing, which helps with its sound characteristics as well as its looks. Powered by 50mm drivers, and offering unique, high-quality sound with crisp highs and rich lows, the closed-back design and high protein leather ear pads provide comfort and noise isolation for all-day use. Durable cords with gold-plated plugs and in-line volume control ensure connectivity with any 3.5mm jack device.The SV003 provides a warm and colorful sound. Each pair’s unique wood grain makes them one-of-a-kind, combining superior quality and striking aesthetics.

Meze 99 Neo

Coming up next, we’ve got the Meze 99 Neo, a budget entrant from the Romanian high-end manufacturer. The Meze Audio 99 Neo headphones feature a retro design with matte black and silver accents, a floating leather headband, and a vintage vibe. The 99 Neo bases its looks off of the higher-end 99 Pro, which is known for its wood ear cups. But for similar performance at reduced cost, the 99 Neo seems like a no-brainer. Packaged in a fabric-bound hard case with a detachable cable, they offer style and durability. The headphones provide a neutral sound signature with rich mids and highs and full bass, creating a pleasant listening experience. The 99 Neo’s comfort and close-to-music feel make them an excellent choice for audiophiles.

Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X

Jumping up the price bracket a little bit, Beyerdynamic’s DT 700 Pro X is a $269 closed-back studio headphone aimed at music creators and engineers. With plush velour ear pads and a sturdy build, they offer comfort and durability. The Stellar 45 sound transducer provides consistent performance across devices without needing an amp. Despite being closed-back, they have a wide, immersive soundstage. The DT 700 Pro X delivers strong, impactful lows, neutral mids, and bright highs, making them an excellent choice for studio use. And like the ATH-M40x, they’re great for audiophiles who want more detail in their sound reproduction.

Sennheiser HD 620S

Next up is the Sennheiser’s HD620S, a new closed-back headphone in the classic HD600 series. Featuring a sleek design with a plastic headband and metal reinforcements, it offers comfort with protein leather ear pads. The 150-ohm dynamic drivers provide balanced sound, with neutral bass, airy mids, and exciting treble. Its soundstage is wider than typical closed-back headphones in this price range. Priced at $349, the HD620S combines excellent build quality, isolation, and accessibility, making it a great choice for audiophiles.

Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro

Jumping up the ladder into true mid-fi territory at $529, we have another great set of headphones from Beyerdynamic. The DT1770 Pro features a robust build with a spring-steel headband, suede-like padding, and two sets of earpads. The build is definitely a step up from what you’ll find in the DT 700 Pro X. But you’ll also get a more refined sound with impressive bass and treble performance and a wide soundstage. Like most headphones from Beyerdynamic, they aim to please audio professionals. But any audiophile should be a fan of its engaging and detailed sound. 

Audeze LCD-2 Classic

Jumping up again in price, the LCD-2 Closed Back offers an entry into Audeze’s higher end, planar-magnetic headphone offerings. Aiming to match the beloved sound of the original LCD-2 while enhancing accessibility, this closed-back design provides excellent noise isolation for distraction-free listening. Featuring innovative planar drivers, it delivers spacious, full, and powerful sound with impressive spatial imaging. The ventilated suspension headband and plush earpads ensure long-lasting comfort. With its taut, punchy bass and warm midrange, the LCD-2 Closed Back is a great choice for audiophiles looking to step up into the next bracket of higher end headphones. 

Focal Celestee

Finally, we have another model from a high-end brand, the Focal Celestee. Priced at $999, the Celestee offers a luxurious design and impressive performance. It features a 40mm aluminum/magnesium driver, delivering dynamic and clear sound, maximizing dynamics and detail retrieval. The Celestee’s semi-aniline leather earpads and microfiber headband ensure comfort. Despite its linear soundstage, it excels in separation and depth. With a balanced midrange and a punchy low-end, the Celestee provides a refined, enjoyable listening experience, solidifying its place in the market.

Final Thoughts

This list is meant to be a starting point for audio enthusiasts looking for closed back headphones. Whether it’s your first pair, or a portable alternative to your main setup, these options should provide great performance for each of their respective price ranges. 

All of the headphones mentioned in this article are available at Audio46.

The post The Best Closed Back Headphones under $1,000 in 2024 appeared first on Major HiFi.

One area where IEMs might not be preferable is if you’re planning on using voice chat. Most IEM cables don’t even provide remote mics and the ones that do don’t always ensure the best quality. Thankfully, there’s a way to get the benefits of both IEMs and gaming headphones with onboard boom mics.

Strauss & Wagner Sallion

If you use IEMs for gaming, chances are they use either 2-pin or MMCX connectors if the cable is detachable. The Sallion doesn’t just take an IEM cable and add a remote mic to it, it gives you a detachable boom arm like over-ear gaming headphones do. This cable costs $49.95 and features both MMCX and 2-pin options. It will work with any 3.5mm headphone port and also offers a USB-C variation.

Not only will it give your IEMs a mic for voice chat, but this cable also works to upgrade the sound of your IEMs. It does this by using materials like OFC silver to reveal more detail in the highs and widen the soundstage. The microphone makes your voice very clear and easy to understand. You can use the Sallion to talk with your friends on Discord, use in-game voice chat, or even for meetings on Zoom. No matter what you use it for, the Sallion will deliver enhanced clarity for both your sound and voice.

The Strauss & Wagner Sallion is available at Audio46.

The post Make Voice Chatting With Your IEMs Better With Strauss & Wagner’s New Cable appeared first on Major HiFi.

Under $100

Sony WF-C700N

$89

The Sony WF-C700N offers a fun and well-balanced sound profile. The low-end is punchy and clean, the mids are even-keeled, and the highs are smooth and non-fatiguing. While it might not match the resolution and ANC effectiveness of Sony’s flagship, the WF-1000XM4, it does come close to replicating its robust sound signature and easy-listening tuning.

Sennheiser SPORT

$99

If you’re seeking a straightforward, durable workout earbud with strong low-end performance, ergonomic customization options, and dependable construction, the Sennheiser SPORT TW is worth considering. These earbuds deliver an impressively tidy sound profile, and the design allows you to feel immersed in the music while also maintaining awareness of your surroundings. Great for runs in the city.

Under $200

Final Audio ZE3000

$149

The Final Audio ZE3000 bring a level of audio fidelity not commonly found in Bluetooth earbuds at this price point. In fact, these buds deliver detailed and transparent sound akin to this famous audiophile brand’s top-tier IEMs. Featuring a wide soundstage, punchy bass, full mids, balanced treble, user-friendly controls, and a snug fit, the ZE3000 carves its own audiophile niche in the wireless earbud world.

Beyerdynamic Free BYRD

$169

Beyerdynamic is one of the oldest and most established headphone brands on the market. So, you can be pretty sure that they never make a bad sounding product. And such is the case with their true wireless models. The Beyerdynamic Free BYRD offers a dynamic sound sound signature with excellent layering, impactful bass, and a lively blend of clear midrange and colorful highs. Sporting an impressively long battery life, these earbuds have gained recognition for being some of the most talented on the market.

Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3

$199

Sennheiser never fails to deliver a top-notch soundstage, and the Momentum True Wireless 3 is no exception. With tons of width and depth, you can expect a soundscape that’s more holographic than any other earbuds we’ve heard at this price point. With plenty of bass / sub-bass oomph, and a natural timbre throughout, the Momentum True Wireless 3 provides a meaty, yet tender sound signature that’s emotive, impactful and super entertaining.

Under $300

Sony WF-1000XM5

$249

The WF-1000XM5 is a huge step up from the previous Sony flagship model. From the more compact design and enhanced ANC to the overall improvement in sound resolution, the XM5 stands out as being one of the best models at this price point. The XM5 offers an impressively expansive soundstage with spatial audio features, a warm and punchy bass, sound personalization options and arguably the best ANC on the market. We have no hesitation in recommending this one.

Astell & Kern AK UW100 MKII

$299

In this price range, you can get wireless earbuds that start to sound like wired high-end IEMs. Though Astell & Kern is better known for its DAPs, their second true wireless iteration is worth some attention. The UW100 MK II brings an satiating audio experience with its huge soundstage, tight bass, and full mids. Features include responsive touch sensors and an in-app EQ with forgiving treble, allowing for a customized listening experience. Priced competitively, the UW100 holds its ground among true wireless heavy hitters, making it a noteworthy option for those seeking a balance of performance and value.

$500 and Up

Noble Audio FoKus Prestige

$599

Out of all the earbuds on this list, the Noble Audio FoKus Prestige most closely approximates the performance and design of a high-end IEM.  It delivers a quick, transparent, and impeccably clean sound, featuring a robust bass, energetic mids, and smooth highs. In fact, we have yet to encounter another true wireless model that produces such impressive sound quality. While the price is admittedly steep, even a brief listening experience is likely to get you hooked.

You can find all these earbuds at Audio 46.

The post Best Wireless Earbuds of 2023 appeared first on Major HiFi.

Why The Sennheiser 600 Series?

The Sennheiser HD 600, 650, and 660 are major staples for mid-budget open-back headphones. They are used by audiophiles and producers looking for a detailed sound close to reference. They are used for pleasure and as tools for the studio. It makes them very versatile headphones that can be enjoyed by many.

Even though these headphones aren’t as serious of an investment as other audiophile headphones, they could still be worth putting more money into with certain upgrades to make the sound even better. Different DAC/Amp combinations, earpads, and cables can all help bolster the performance of your headphones. The HD 600 and 650 only come with one type of cable that’s a single-ended quarter-inch jack. You get an additional 4.4mm balanced cable with the 660S2. Cable upgrades for the 600 series can be hard to come by since the headphone connectors are proprietary. This is where the Strauss and Wanger Lucerne comes in.

Strauss & Wagner’s New Cable

Strauss and Wagner’s new line of HiFi accessories includes an OFC silver cable for the 600 series that terminates to 4.4mm. This cable is called the Lucerne, and it only costs $59.95. When attached to any one of the 600 series headphones, the Lucerne looks like a natural fit. Especially with the 650, the silver of the Lucerne works very well with its glossier finish.

How The Lucerne Changes The Sound Of the 600 Series Headphones

A majority of my time listening to these headphones with the Lucerne I was using the Questyle M15. Of course, this will have its effects on the performance of the headphones, but I wanted something small and powerful that had a 4.4mm output. Starting with the HD 600, the Lucerne shows you immediately what its advantage is going to be when you pair it with these headphones. The soundstage completely blows up with all three headphones. For open-back headphones, the 600 series never felt too wide or in front of you, but the Lucerne expands the stage to completely engulf your head. Vocals feel like they’re sitting in front of you, while all the instruments hover around you. Neither headphone loses accuracy here, but the presentation is less strict and more immersive.

In terms of timbre, the HD 600 is slightly more textured in the lows, but not as much as the 650 and 660. With the 650, the highs are heavily extended, which is to be expected with silver. However, the 650 contained the most expressive treble with the highest amplitude. Overall, the HD 600 is much smoother and lets the soundstage fill in the spaces nicely. The HD 660S2 gives you the best of everything, with the highest amount of detail from the cable. You get the most pinpoint accuracy from spatial imaging, but not as engulfing as the 650.

Should You Consider The Lucerne?

If you own either one of these headphones, then the Lucerne is worth it. Listening to the HD 600 and 650 with a 4.4mm silver cable like this makes a great pairing that offers more from a pair of headphones you already know and love.

The Strauss & Wagner Lucerne is available from their website and Audio46.

The post The Strauss & Wagner Lucerne Is The Best Add-On To The Sennheiser HD 600 Series appeared first on Major HiFi.

What’s in the Box?

• 1 Time Stream Cable (Essential Version: 2.5mm, 4.4mm, 3.5mm terminations available) 
• Marshmallow and silicone tips
• Cleaning tool
• Cleaning cloth
• Campfire Audio pin 
• Large soft case
• Small dual-pocket soft case for shell scratch protection

Look and Feel

While the shells of the Bonneville may feel a bit larger than others in the Chromatic Series (don’t quote me), they also fit me like a glove. That’s not to say I didn’t feel them firmly nestled in my ears. But they sport a real “stage IEM” fit, with zero room for wiggle or bleed. So, the fit is comfortable, but noticeably snug. In terms of looks, I’m not particularly into the design of Campfire’s Chromatic Series, preferring the unique industrial look of models like the Andromeda and Ara. Still, the Bonneville has an undeniably distinctive appearance that combines the metallic boldness of older models, like the Atlas and Comet, with the ergonomic bulbous housing that reflects a more modern, custom-like aesthetic. The only thing that annoyed me were that the MMCX connectors are a little stiff, making switching around cables kind of a pain.

Design

The Bonneville sports a 4 driver hybrid setup. It implements a 10mm Dual-Magnet dynamic driver for the lows, 1 balanced armature for the midrange, and 2 balanced armatures for the highs. While the Bonneville is still quite easy to drive, it is far less sensitive than some of Campfire’s most IEMs, like the Andromeda. And I found that the Bonneville benefitted from a little extra driving power to fully deliver its resolution potential. For this review, I paired the Bonneville with my Astell & Kern SR 35 (4.4mm connection).

Sound Impressions

Soundstage

Huge, holographic and damn fun. The breadth and boldness of this soundstage is stunning, and in this respect, it almost reminds me of some of Jerry Harvey Audio more majestic sounding IEMs. With respect to imaging, there’s an ever so slight shifting back of instruments, giving an added sense of depth to the stage. The Bonneville’s uber-broad soundstage delivers a 360 degree arena like feel to live performances, especially. But even on more intimate productions, the sense of dimension is palpable. And although I didn’t find the stage to be that tall, there was so much nuance in positioning along the vertical axis that I never felt like I was losing the experience of height. In fact, instrument placement is anally precise in all directions, injecting vibrancy into even the most boring or unvaried mixes.

Low-End

The low-end of the Campfire Audio Bonneville is something I’ve never quite experienced before, and it can take your breath away at times. Starting from the lowest end of the frequency range, the sub-bass frequencies deliver a visceral sensation that extends deep into the chest. But what makes it noteworthy is that, despite its substantialness, the sub-bass is never bloated or overwhelming. Instead, there’s a feeling of control and containment, allowing the higher frequencies to share the stage.

As we move up the frequency range, the bass frequencies offer explosive depth, if not abyss-like darkness, and it’s grander than anything I’ve heard in Campfire’s most recent line-up (though the bass on the Cascara may be even more substantial). For the most part, the bass is able flavor the entire sound signature without actually bleeding into the higher frequencies. But at rare moments, the middle to upper-bass can also cause a slightly veiled effect, especially when it is a primary driving force in the track.  Still, in true Campfire fashion, the bass is also grippy and textured. And this quality keeps the presentation tight on modern tracks, lending an added flavor of funk to the mix.

When listening to dramatic classical pieces, like some of Beethoven’s more intense compositions, the bass could be thunderous and, at times, downright frightening. There’s an incredible amount of power and drop here, reminiscent of what Empire Ears can do. However, the Bonneville delivers it with more substance and in a more natural way.

Mids

In the midrange, there’s a pleasing sense of balance that, at the same time, never borders on mundane. The upper mids don’t sit too far forward, so vocals feel well integrated into the overall mix rather than protruding too prominently. And the lower mids, though not as obvious, don’t come across as excessively recessed. In this range there are no dramatic peaks or valleys, resulting in a smooth, warm, and all-encompassing profile.

You won’t hear an abundance snap in this range. Instead, the Bonneville consistently exudes a steady and controlled energy that never wavers. That being said, Campfire is never short on impact, and heavy snares that hit the middle frequencies still sound powerful and punchy. 

For the most part, the midrange is pristine, delivering impeccable layering and outstanding definition and separation. That said, on occasion, the low mids may have a slightly veiled effect. For instance, when listening to a track like Lorde’s “Green Light,” you might notice that her vocals have a slightly cloudy flavor in the mid to lower midrange frequencies. It’s worth noting that this phenomenon is infrequent and doesn’t significantly impact the overall listening experience. And for sure, the upper mids remain consistently crystal clear, tastefully balancing the weighty low frequencies, to create a well proportioned, yet energetic profile.

Highs

The high frequencies are strikingly transparent, lending an airy and ethereal quality to vocals, brass instruments, and woodwinds. There’s a distinctive luminance to the highs, giving the treble a radiant aura. And although there’s more crispness than sparkle at the highest frequencies, there is still a shiny flavor to the overall presentation.

While the very highest treble peaks can almost verge on sharpness, they manage to avoid crossing the line into being piercing to the ears or causing listening fatigue. And as we move into the highest registers, there’s a noticeable thinning out or lightening of the sound, which lends an added degree of spaciousness to this range.

Summary

You’ve got to hand it to Campfire. When they make an IEM, it sounds like nothing else on the market. And the Bonneville is a prime example of a distinctness in sound signature that can’t be mimicked by any other brand. With a dark and explosive bass, warm, yet clean mids and luminous highs, the Bonneville carves out a distinctive place in the Campfire line-up. Add to that a killer soundstage and a unique Campfire character that’s undeniably its own, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind IEM that’s insanely fun to listen to.

You can buy the Campfire Audio Bonneville at Audio 46.

The post Campfire Audio Bonneville Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

Strauss & Wagner EM8C

The EM8C has become a popular niche model for audiophiles on the go. They don’t necessarily look like anything fancy but we think they’re sufficiently gifted with regard to beauty. More important, they way over-perform for the price, offering a commendable level of transparency and rich, full-bodied, crowd pleasing tuning. Don’t mistake the EM8C for cheap Amazon lookalikes because they just don’t sound as good. 

Moondrop JIIU

The number one go-to brand for trendy audiophiles (no, it’s not an oxymoron) has started making super affordable Type-C earbuds. Known for making aesthetically gorgeous IEMs that also sound undeniably high-end, Moondrop has taken pity on those of us who are left with nothing but a Type-C connection on our phones. 

Samsung Type C Headphones (Made by AKG)

Ok, so this may not be the most durable pair of earbuds on the market, but thanks to AKG’s famously clean and well-balanced sound signature, these earphones sound pretty damn decent. Listen, they’re reasonably cheap and get the job done. Don’t overthink it.

Moondrop Droplet

Yet another Type-C model from Moondrop, the simple yet futuristic looking, Droplet, exemplifies the brand’s appeal to young audiophiles, drawing inspiration from a series of science fiction novels. Told you audiophiles were cool. With notably great call clarity and a build quality that appears more expensive than it costs, there’s nothing to dislike here.

The post Best Wired Earphones for the Google Pixel 8 appeared first on Major HiFi.

Look and Feel (Grado SR325x vs Grado)

The Hemp is lighter, but the SR325x sits softer and more comfortably on the ear. While some complained about the Grado fit, both models were comfortable for me, and I actually enjoyed the gentle soft foam against my ear. However, if you’re sensitive to pressure, the SR325x might be a safer choice.

Design

True to its name, the Hemp features hemp wood housing that is 20% harder than oak. It also incorporates maple to balance the sound and bring out its sonic properties. On the other hand, the SR325x is known for its brushed aluminum housing, which produces a different timbre compared to the Hemp. It utilizes Grado’s 4th Generation drivers specifically tuned for this model, with improvements in the magnetic circuit, voice coil, and diaphragm. Both headphones are equally efficient, and you won’t have any trouble powering them straight from your phone. But for this review, I paired both headphones with the Dragonfly Cobalt DAC/amp.

Grado SR325x vs Grado Hemp:

Sound Impressions

Soundstage

Both Grado SR325x and Grado Hemp headphones deliver an impressive soundstage, true to Grado’s style. The SR325x has a more resonant quality, making the soundstage feel slightly grander at times. Instruments also have more presence on the SR325x, and the overall presentation feels more dramatic. On the other hand, the Hemp provides more realistic imaging, adding subtle details to the instrument’s timbre and creating a more natural sense of distance from the center. So, in general, SR325x is perhaps less nuanced, but its harder edges give the soundscape a more vibrant feel. I enjoyed this area reviewing Grado SR325x vs Grado Hemp.

Low-End

Both headphones have a similar bass presence throughout the bass frequency spectrum, but the Hemp offers a slightly more extended and solidified sub-bass. The bass on the Hemp is also more controlled and less resonant, with a dryer feel compared to the SR325x. In terms of transparency, both perform equally well. However, when listening to cellos, the SR325x felt comparatively more reference-like, while the Hemp delivered a softer and more emotive quality.

Mids

The low-mids are equally moderate on Grado SR325x vs Grado Hemp headphones, while the high-mids receive a bit more attention. The SR325x can feel a touch warmer (though both have warmth), likely due to its more relaxed bass. But both headphones have a similar balance overall. (There’s also a narrow dip somewhere in the mids or high-mids that tames certain snares, affecting both models.) The level of clean separation in the low mids is equally impressive in both. However, compared to the Hemp, the SR325x has a slightly more metallic flavor, with guitars shining and feeling more defined, while the Hemp presents a softer sound. The same is true for snares, with the Hemp offering a more muted resolve and the SR325x hitting sharper.

Highs

The highs feel airier on the Hemp, with vocals being breathier and seemingly floating higher. In contrast, the SR325x feels a bit heavier and somewhat less refined. Overall, the Hemp delivers a more emotive performance, especially with vocals and strings. But both Grado SR325x and Grado Hemp headphones have great extension in the highs without any uncomfortable peakiness.

Summary Review of Grado SR325x vs Grado Hemp :

At the end of the day, both of these models deliver a highly detailed sound, and both Grado SR325x and Grado Hemp have their own distinct qualities that will appeal to different people depending on taste. If you like a harder-hitting and slightly metallic profile, the SR325x delivers that quality with flying colors. But if you’re looking for something softer and more musical, it’s hard to be the Hemp. Finally, if we’re reducing this comparison down to pure skill, it’s undeniable that the Hemp delivers a somewhat more nuanced and more controlled performance.

You can buy the SR325x at Audio 46.

You can buy the Grado Hemp at Audio 46.

The post Grado SR325x vs Grado Hemp Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

Best Wireless Headphones Under $200

Audio-Technica M50X BT

$199

The Audio-Technica M50X BT is the only V-shaped wireless headphone on this list. While a flatter balance is often preferred for classical and jazz music, the M50X BT offers some delightful surprises to the classical and jazz fan. And it’s a popular choice for music enthusiasts who listen to these genres. With disciplined bass and buoyant highs, these headphones deliver light and playful strings, super-transparent-sounding brass instruments, and crystal-clear percussion. The rich low-end also adds a satiating majesty to bass instruments without bleeding into the midrange or sounding sluggish. So, if you seek a dynamic profile with a dramatic contrast between highs and lows, the M50X BT will provide extra liveliness to your tracks.

You can buy the Audio-Technica M50X BT at Audio 46.

Top Wireless Headphones Under $300

Grado GW100x

$275

The Grado GW100x is the technological evolution of a retro brand with a cult-like following. Made in Brooklyn, NY, Grado is well-known for producing highly detailed sound, and their wireless headphones are widely considered to be some of the most optimal for jazz music. The GW100x now delivers these sound qualities in wireless form.

It’s important to note that the GW100x is an open-back wireless headphone, meaning it leaks both in and out of the sound. (Open-back headphones offer a larger soundstage, but they are best suited for relatively quiet spaces.) For its price, the tastefully balanced GW100x provides one of the most expansive and multidimensional soundstages on the market and maintains the precise, transparent, and distinctly Grado-ish personality that has made this niche headphone company so famous.

You can buy the Grado GW100x at Audio 46.

Top Wireless Headphones Under $1000

Bowers & Wilkins PX8

$699

While the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 comes with a higher price tag, it delivers exceptional resolution, cohesiveness, and control. The PX8’s refined quality makes it well-suited for jazz, offering a relatively even balance that gives equal attention to all parts of the frequency spectrum. No element gets lost in the mix, and no frequency outshines or imposes on others. 

The PX8 also features impressive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). With an impressive 30-hour battery life, these Wireless headphones are perfect for jazz fans who just bought a ticket to Australia.

You can buy the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 at Audio 46.

Mark Levinson 5909

It doesn’t get much better than this in terms of resolution. Striking a perfect balance between accuracy and coloration, the Mark Levinson 5909 brings a rich and vibrant flavor to string instruments while avoiding any artificial saturation or weight. Again, the balance here is reasonably even-handed, so you can be sure that you’re hearing a full and all-encompassing mix. In addition, instruments are immaculately separated and, allowing for incredibly clean layering and thoroughly multidimensional imaging.

Like the PX8, Mark Levinson Wireless headphones also offer excellent ANC and effective isolation, allowing you to enjoy your music undisturbed. And overall, the 5909 are the ultimate purchase for discerning jazz and classical music enthusiasts who seek top-notch audio reproduction. These are all of Top 4 Wireless Headphones for Jazz & Classical Music

You can buy the Mark Levinson 5909 at Audio 46.

The post Top 4 Wireless Headphones for Jazz & Classical Music appeared first on Major HiFi.

Under $50:

JBL Vibe Buds ($49)

You’ve talked about going Bluetooth for a while, but daddy just can’t take the plunge. Enough. Liberate your father from the hassle of cords with the super easy JBL Vibe Buds. These sleek and solidly built earphones not only offer idiot-proof pairing but also provide a crowd-pleasing sound signature. With rich bass, clear mids, and smooth highs, they can handle any musical genre with finesse. Give your dad the gift of Bluetooth technology and let him embrace the wireless revolution. Just remember to keep the receipt handy in case he shuts you down.

You can buy the JBL Vibe Buds bat Audio 46.

FiiO KA1 ($49)

For dads who already have their favorite pair of headphones or earbuds, the FiiO KA1 DAC/amp dongle is the perfect companion. This compact device enhances clarity, widens the soundstage, and elevates the overall listening experience. Especially for dads who enjoy music on their phones, the KA1 is a fantastic choice for bringing top-notch sound on the go.

You can buy the FiiO KA1 at Audio 46.

Under $100:

Grado SR60x ($99)

When it comes to timeless design and exquisite sound, Grado headphones never disappoint. The SR60x, Grado’s entry-level model, offers precise, detailed sound reproduction and a retro handmade charm. With their ability to excel in acoustic genres like jazz, classical, and folk, these headphones are an essential addition to any audiophile’s collection. Treat your dad to a dose of sonic excellence with the SR60x.

You can buy the Grado SR60x at Audio 46.

Under $200:

Final Audio ZE3000 ($149)

If your dad appreciates premium audio, Final Audio’s ZE3000 wireless earbuds will impress. Despite their elegant simplicity, these earphones deliver audiophile-class sound quality. With beautifully balanced tuning, rich bass, clean and detailed mids, and sparkling highs, the ZE3000 offers a highly versatile sound signature that suits a wide range of music genres. Upgrade your dad’s listening pleasure with a budget-friendly winner from this high-end brand.

You can buy the Final Audio ZE3000 at Audio 46.

iFi GO blu ($199)

The iFi GO blu is a portable DAC/amp that takes your dad’s audio experience to the next level. With improved resolution, expanded soundstage, and enhanced musicality, this cute yet powerful device complements your dad’s IEMs or headphones. Offering both Bluetooth and wired connectivity options, it ensures high-quality audio from various sources. When you choose a reputable brand like iFi, you know you’re getting a well-built product that delivers on its promises.

You can buy the iFi GO blu at Audio 46.

Under $500:

Grado GW100x Wireless ($275)

Combine old-school charm with modern convenience by gifting your dad the Grado GW100x wireless headphones. These headphones provide the renowned Grado transparency and attention to detail without the hassle of wires. With exceptional clarity and precision, your dad can immerse himself in a world of sonic excellence while enjoying the convenience of wireless listening. It’s a perfect choice for dads who appreciate both style and substance.

You can buy the GW100x Wireless at Audio 46.

Meze 99 Classics ($309)

Crafted with luxurious materials and exuding elegance, the Meze 99 Classics headphones are a gift that combines style and inarguably solid sound. These headphones provide a rich, warm, and detailed sound signature that suits a wide range of music genres. Comfort is another key aspect that sets the Meze 99 Classics apart, thanks to their ergonomic design and plush ear cushions. Let your dad revel in the finer things in life with these sweet sounding premium wood cans.

You can buy the Meze 99 Classics at Audio 46.

Under $800:

FiiO R7 ($699)

The FiiO R7 is the ultimate all-in-one solution for your dad’s desktop audio setup. With its versatile functionality as a DAP, streamer, headphone amp, and DAC, the R7 delivers a super smooth Android user interface and a wide range of input and output options. It’s the pinnacle of functional audio gear, providing your dad with the most comprehensive and high-quality audio experience. FiiO has perfected this device at a price that no other brand can match.

You can buy the FiiO R7 at Audio 46.

$1000 and Up

Campfire Audio Andromeda (Emerald Sea) ($1450)

The Campfire Andromeda, now also known as the Emerald Sea, is a true audiophile treasure. These IEMs are unmatched in their performance for the price, offering a massive soundstage, rich warmth, and energetic drive. The Andromeda delivers an unparalleled eargasmic pleasure that opens up a whole universe of sonic bliss. Gift your dad this extraordinary listening experience, and he’ll be forever grateful. Too much? Let’s just say that the the Campfire Andromeda is to audiophiles what Macallan 25 is to alcoholics. A real treat that your dad will never put down.

You can buy the Campfire Andromeda (Emerald Sea) at Audio 46.

Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000 ($3690)

When it comes to top-notch craftsmanship and attention to detail, Astell & Kern is unrivaled. The A&ultima SP3000 is a true audiophile’s dream, making it the ultimate gift for your deserving dad. With its vast soundstage, impeccable imaging, immaculate layering, and captivating airiness, this digital audio player produces a sound quality that sets it apart from any other player on the market. The SP3000 is the DAP that everyone desires but only a few can afford. If you don’t buy it for your dad, your richer, better-looking sister might beat you to it.

You can buy the A&ultima SP3000 at Audio 46.

The post Best Father’s Day Gifts for Audiophile Dads 2023 appeared first on Major HiFi.