What’s In The Box?

Look and Feel

The Audeze Maxwell weighs 450 grams and features a suspension headband to distribute the weight. The ear pads are soft with moderate clamping pressure, offering a snug fit. The button layout is intuitive, with precise and responsive controls. The detachable microphone and wireless functionality add to its modern appeal, despite its somewhat heavy and convoluted design.

In contrast, the Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro boasts high build quality with aluminum yokes and velour ear cushions. The clamping style might feel tight for some, but it ensures comfort during long gaming sessions. However, its wired design, non-detachable mic, and bulky cable system make it a bit more cumbersome compared to the Maxwell.

Design, Battery, Bluetooth, and Specs

The Maxwell impresses with an 80-hour battery life and quick charge capabilities. It connects seamlessly via a USB-C dongle or Bluetooth. The transparency mode and detachable boom mic deliver excellent clarity, and the 90mm planar driver ensures powerful and clean low-end reproduction. It supports high-resolution audio formats like LDAC, providing strong passive isolation even without active noise cancellation (ANC).

The MMX 300 Pro features the 45mm STELLAR.45 driver for studio-quality sound. It performs best on a PC due to the volume limitations of the 3.5mm connector. The cardioid condenser microphone provides clear chat audio, ideal for communication during gameplay.

Soundstage & Imaging

The Maxwell excels with its 3D Audio compatibility, offering an expansive and detailed soundstage that enhances the gaming experience by allowing precise pinpointing of sounds. This feature is particularly useful in competitive shooters.

The MMX 300 Pro delivers a realistic soundstage with a natural stereo field, suitable for both competitive and atmospheric gaming experiences. Its more natural soundstaging makes it versatile for both music and gaming.

Sound Impressions

The Maxwell features a V-shaped tuning, emphasizing the bass and treble while slightly recessing the mids. This results in thunderous sub-bass, crisp sound effects, and detailed imaging. I was deeply impressed with its ability to parse out layers of sound during busy moments in games. But while this tuning is excellent for gaming, it can feel unnatural for certain music genres.

The MMX 300 Pro offers a balanced bass response with a theatrical tone, enhancing the gaming experience with smooth and textured low frequencies. The midrange is clear and neutral, providing ample space for sound effects. The highs are subdued by Beyerdynamic’s standards, but overall, they add a tactile feel that provides traditional detail in a way that the Maxwell can’t.

Final Thoughts

Both the Audeze Maxwell and Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro offer excellent but different features. For gamers prioritizing 3D sound immersion and wireless convenience, the Maxwell is the better choice. However, the MMX 300 Pro is more versatile, performing well for both gaming and music. Ultimately, it’s great to see audio companies providing a range of gaming solutions to suit different preferences.

The Audeze Maxwell and Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro are available at Audio46. 

The post Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro vs Audeze Maxwell Comparison Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

DAC Connectivity and Battery Life

The Moondrop Evo boasts Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity with a claimed range of 15 meters (49.2 feet). However, in my real-world testing, I found this claim to be somewhat exaggerated. The connection began to drop out at around 6 meters (20 feet), making it more suitable for desk use or keeping your device close by. Despite this limitation, I found the Evo to be quite usable for everyday scenarios.

The Evo supports a wide range of codecs, including aptX Adaptive, aptX TWS+, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC. This comprehensive codec support allowed me to enjoy the full clarity of lossless streaming from services like Tidal and Roon. However, I did note the absence of Dolby Atmos compatibility, which would have been a welcome addition.

Battery life on the Evo impressed me. After two hours of use, I barely noticed a dent in the playtime. The charging case, while bulky, provides excellent protection for your IEMs and extends the overall battery life significantly.

In contrast, the iFi Go Pod also features Bluetooth 5.2 but utilizes the Qualcomm QCC 5100 chip. I found its range to be noticeably better than the Evo’s, making it more versatile for moving around. The Go Pod supports an even wider array of codecs, adding LDAC and LHDC/HWA to the mix. This expansive codec support ensures fantastic audio quality across various devices and streaming services.

The Go Pod’s battery life is equally impressive, offering about 7 hours of playback on a single charge, with the case providing an additional 30 hours. I appreciated the useful battery life display on the case, which helped me keep track of remaining power.

Design and Fit

The Moondrop Evo’s design is significantly bulky, but I found it provided a secure fit that didn’t impact my IEM seal. The device clasps noticeably around the ear, which might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with smaller ears. The rubber material is a little stiff, meaning it took a while to form around my ear. While I found it comfortable for casual listening and walking around, it’s not the best choice for workouts.

The Evo’s touch controls work well, and I appreciated the inclusion of ENC dual mics for great call quality. However, the bulky charging case, while protective, is far from pocket-friendly. You’ll definitely need a bag or tote to carry this around comfortably.

The iFi Go Pod, on the other hand, weighs just 12 grams, making it significantly more comfortable to wear. I found its around-the-ear fit more flexible than the Evo’s, conforming better to my ear shape. After extended use, I barely noticed I was wearing it, feeling more like a slightly thicker IEM cable than a separate device.

The Go Pod’s IPX5 rating adds peace of mind for light water exposure, though I’d still be cautious about using expensive IEMs during intense workouts. The included adapters for both 2-pin and MMCX connections greatly expand its compatibility with various IEMs.

Like the Evo, the Go Pod’s case is quite large, but I found it more manageable overall. The built-in mic with Qualcomm noise suppression performed admirably during calls.

Audio Quality

Turning to the all-important factor of audio quality, both DAC/Amps impressed me, albeit with distinct characteristics. I used the 64 Audio U18t, Nostalgia Audio Camelot, and Moondrop Aria IEMs in my testing.

The Moondrop Evo delivers clear audio with minimal distortion. I noticed a slight drop in bass and presence compared to a wired connection, but the overall volume and clarity were excellent. The Evo adds a warm, slightly V-shaped character to the sound, which I found particularly enjoyable with brighter IEMs.

Listening to “Synapse” by Linea Aspera, I appreciated the Evo’s handling of the track’s layered elements. The sharp synths mixed well with the reverb-heavy vocals, creating a natural and transparent soundstage. However, I did notice that trailing sounds were slightly shortened compared to a wired connection.

Moving to heavier genres, I played Morbid Angel’s “Blessed are the Sick” album. The Evo DAC added a nice character to the boosted guitars and bass, making them less piercing and more enjoyable. If you’re easily fatigued by highs, you’ll likely appreciate the color the Evo adds to the sound.

For a change of pace, I listened to “Loie” by Ike Quebec. The Evo’s warm and detailed sound beautifully supported the track’s haunting organ and vocals. The layered Van Gelder Studios recording came through with distinct fullness, showcasing excellent low-end detail.

However, when I tested the Evo with Brotherhood’s “Till Death” album, I found its limitations. The booming guitars were a bit too much for the unit to handle, resulting in some muddiness. While the drums retained enough sharpness, I wished for more character in the bombastic rhythm section.

Switching to the iFi Go Pod, I immediately noticed its flatter, more neutral sound signature. The Go Pod offers clear audio reproduction with very low distortion. I perceived slightly less clarity in the 2kHz – 4kHz treble range compared to the Evo, which can help tame harshness in some IEMs.

Revisiting “Synapse” by Linea Aspera, the Go Pod provided more clarity in voices and a more present midrange. I also noticed a wider soundstage that reproduced reverb more accurately.

With Freddie Roach’s “Loie,” the Go Pod’s flatter sound showcased the mix’s excellence. While bass was less prominent than with the Evo, I appreciated the more distinct, textured sound. Solos came through with brighter clarity, and cymbals sounded sharper and clearer without becoming fatiguing.

Returning to Morbid Angel’s “Blessed are the Sick,” I found the guitars lacked the same growling bite as with the Evo, but they made up for it with improved layering and body. Feedback and string noise details are louder on the evo as well. The drums pushed through the mix more clearly, with a faster, cleaner attack on the snare.

Finally, with Brotherhood’s “Till Death,” the Go Pod truly shined. Its character paired excellently with the album’s bass-heavy mix. The fuzzy, saturated guitars displayed more presence, and the rumbling low-end was a perfect match for this DAC. I also appreciated how the cymbals separated more clearly from the guitar and bass sounds.

Value and Conclusion

After extensive testing, I found both the Moondrop Evo and iFi Go Pod to be excellent performers in their respective price brackets.

The Moondrop Evo offers impressive sound quality and features at a more budget-friendly price point. While its connectivity range and bulky design may be drawbacks for some, its warm sound signature and compatibility with a wide range of IEMs make it an excellent choice for those looking to dip their toes into the world of wireless DAC/Amps.

The iFi Go Pod, with its $399 price tag, caters more to the high-end consumer with multiple pairs of IEMs. Its superior connectivity, more neutral sound signature, and wider codec support justify the premium to a degree. However, at a price point that exceeds many TWS earbuds, it may be a harder sell for casual listeners.

Both devices successfully bridge the gap between wired audio quality and wireless convenience. The choice between them will largely depend on your budget, preferred sound signature, and how much you value the additional features of the Go Pod.

As for me, I found both DAC/Amps to be valuable additions to my audio arsenal, each serving different purposes. Despite this, it’s hard to consider paying around four times as much for the Go Pod when the Evo does about 80% of what they offer. I’d still suggest the Go Pods for use with high-end IEMs and DAPs.

In the end, both the Moondrop Evo and iFi Go Pod prove that the future of personal audio is bright, offering audiophiles the freedom to enjoy their favorite IEMs wirelessly without significant compromises in sound quality. Whether you’re a budget-conscious listener or a discerning audiophile, these devices offer compelling options to elevate your wireless listening experience.

Get the Moondrop EVO and iFi Go Pod at Audio 46

The post Moondrop Evo vs. iFi Go Pod DAC/Amp Comparison Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

What You Get

• TOZO T6 Wireless Earbuds
• Wireless Charging Case
• 6 pairs of Ear tips (XS/S/M/L/XL/XXL)
• USB Charging Cable
• Quick Guide & User Manual

Look & Feel

The T6 has a simple but elegant design. You get a standard oval shell that is small, and has a glossy faceplate that acts as a touch sensor. It’s a stylish look that comes in tons of color variations. The version I used for this review is the champagne variation, which is even more fashionable than the others. No matter what color the T6 comes in, the level of comfort will be the same. The T6 sits easily in your ear without any extra pressure, and it’s easy to forget about them while you’re just sitting there listening to music.

Design & Functionality

What supports TOZO’s main driver configuration is its OrigX system which is responsible for the earphones tuning. Other than its sound, the T6 doesn’t have many other features. There’s no active noise-canceling or environmental features, but there is a companion app that has EQ. Another part of its functionality is the touch sensors, which work well even after long delays.

Bluetooth

The T6 supports Bluetooth 5.3 with low latency. They have very fast paring and stable streaming quality throughout your listening time. It features standard CODECs, so no aptX or LDAC.

Battery Life

With the T6, you should be able to get ten hours from a single charge. The charging case totals 45 hours of listening time before needed to recharge, which is very good for the price point.

Soundstage

It’s hard to find many flaws with this soundstage considering the price. I’m so easily impressed by the T6’s moderately wide stereo field. When cheaper products like the T6 make any attempt to feature basic stereo dynamics and accuracy, it will receive praise from me. The T6 does an adequate job stacking its layers on top of each other elegantly and showing some degree of separation. You can localize different instruments with ease thanks to its channel balance.

Low End

This bass has everything you’re looking for from a set of budget true wireless earbuds. Even without EQ, the bass on the T6 is very thumpy. It features satisfying bass grooves that dig deeper than you might expect, offering a consistent edge to bass performances. If the constant drive of the bass is too much, you can always reduce it with EQ. Using EQ to add more bass is a bit overkill for me though, as the lows start to lose some of its grace.

Mids

A lot of earbuds like the T6 tend to bury its mids underneath a more dominant bass. The T6 does a good job hiding its lack of midrange detail with a relatively clean timbre. It supplies instruments with a fine layer of surface level resolution. It’s not the most full range of frequency content, but nothing about it feels too destructive to the mix. Maybe the frequency response is more constricted in the midrange, but it’s not too distracting.

Highs

The T6 does a good job adding a little bit of spice to the top-end region of the sound signature. There’s a thinly veiled sparkle that gives cymbals enough juice to have significant presence in the mix. Nothing about it is overtly bright or harsh, but it doesn’t settle for dullness either. It features some pleasant ticks that feel detailed, and it gives sound elements a solid amount of tail.

Summary

There’s a ton of value to the T6, with a good design and sound for an inexpensive price. Its bass and highs present more expressive features than its price would have you assume, and the same goes for its soundstage too. It also features nice aesthetics, and a wonderfully comfy fit that almost makes the T6 the whole package for a generous price.

The TOZO T6 is available from Amazon.

The post TOZO T6 Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

What’s in the Box?

• COSMO Headphones
• 4.4mm Balanced Cable
• 4.4mm to 6.35mm Adapter
• Manual
• Anime Card
• Certificate
• Service Card

Build Quality

The Moondrop Cosmo is undeniably a substantial headphone, weighing in at approximately 516 grams. This heft is largely due to the 100mm planar magnetic driver. Despite its weight, the Cosmo is designed for comfort and durability, featuring a robust combination of metal and leather materials.

The weight distribution is well-managed, with most of it concentrated around the ear cups where the drivers are housed. This design choice helps avoid unnecessary clamping force or discomfort, allowing for extended listening sessions without fatigue. The leather ear pads add a touch of luxury, and the included balanced, braided cable is flexible and free of excessive memory.

Design

The Moondrop Cosmo headphones exemplify advanced technical design, blending cutting-edge technology with meticulous engineering. At the heart of its performance is a nanoscale ultra-thin diaphragm that delivers a broader frequency response, lower distortion, and faster detail retrieval, resulting in exceptional sound quality. The highly elastic, ultra-thin pure silver circuit enhances efficiency and minimizes heat loss, ensuring precise and clear audio.

A notable feature is the Tension Balancing Technology (TBT), which performs secondary stress balancing on the diaphragm. This significantly reduces dynamic distortions, providing stable and high-quality sound output. The use of a large-scale finite element simulation system by Moondrop’s R&D team has optimized the acoustic structure design, reducing trial-and-error time and improving development efficiency. This simulation system ensures a smooth wide-band response and ultra-low nonlinear distortion. The patented Full Drive Technology (FDT) drives the entire diaphragm surface, eliminating split vibrations and offering a treble performance comparable to electrostatic headphones.

Sound Impressions

Low End

The Cosmo delivers a liquid-like low end that is textured and immersive. While not particularly punchy, it anchors the frequency response effectively and can provide some thud when necessary. It’s not a bass-heavy headphone, but it excels in acoustic and classical music, where texture is paramount. For bass-heavy genres like hip-hop and EDM, some listeners might desire more slam.

Mids

The midrange is a standout feature of the Cosmo, prioritizing smoothness over aggressiveness. It offers a relaxed, intimate presentation with natural-sounding vocals. The tuning is neutral, with a slight midbass bloom adding warmth and character. This midrange quality makes the Cosmo particularly enjoyable for vocal-centric and acoustic tracks.

Top End

The treble region of the Cosmo is laid-back, with highs slightly rolled off to create a more relaxing sound. While this approach may lack the attack needed for genres with prominent cymbals, it shines in acoustic music. Vocals are smooth, and acoustic instruments have a creamy, liquid quality. 

Soundstage

The soundstage of the Cosmo is solid but not overly expansive. This works well with the intimate and warm sound signature of the headphones. While not exceptionally wide, the soundstage is capable of delivering subtle details on the outskirts, providing a sense of space when needed.

Final Thoughts

The Moondrop Cosmo is a unique headphone with a distinctive character. Rather than focusing on dynamic, boisterous sound, it offers a laid-back, warm listening experience. This makes it an excellent choice for fans of acoustic, classical, and other texturally rich genres. If you’re looking for a headphone that excels in these areas, the Cosmo might be the perfect fit for you.

The Moondrop Cosmo is available at Audio46. 

The post Moondrop Cosmo Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

What You Get

Look & Feel

The Pulse Elite takes on the aesthetic of the PS5, while the Maxwell has a chunkier, heavy-duty build. With the Maxwell, you get a sturdier design, with high-grade materials that appear more durable compared to the Elite. Both headphones give off a cool look, and I particularly like how they implement their boom mics. Wearing the Pulse Elite gives off a lighter feel compared to the Maxwell, but I prefer the isolation Audeze’s headphones give you. The Elite is comfortable, but sometimes the fit can feel a bit loose. I have one bit of gripe with the Maxwell though, and it’s the headband. The three-hole design is not one that I favor, especially compared to the Elite’s headband, which adjusts automatically.

Design

Sony’s Pulse Elite headphones adapt Audeze’s planar design principle, but information on the driver’s exact size is not made specific. However, we do know that the Maxwell has a 90mm driver, which is pretty sizable. I’ve heard some complaints about the Maxwell’s loudness quality, but after some firmware updates it’s gotten better. This is not a problem for the headphones when used over PlayStation, as they both output the same amount of volume. EQ controls can also be used through the PlayStation, but Audeze also has its own app called Audeze HQ.

Microphone Quality

This is one of the few areas where one headphone is outright better than the other and it would be hard to say otherwise. The Pulse Elite’s mic quality is very disappointing compared to the Maxwell. When I was testing the Pulse Elite for my review, I noted that my voice came across as boxy when chatting with my friends over Discord on the PlayStation. The Maxwell doesn’t have this issue, and while the voice quality still isn’t perfect, it’s way more clear than the Elite.

Bluetooth & Battery Life

There is a clear winner for battery life and that’s the Maxwell. It offers 80 hours of playtime compared to the Pulse Elite’s 30 hours. Both are appropriate for their price points though, and I never had a problem with the charge time of either of them. In terms of their wireless connection, both headphones are on a similar level. They both offer dongles that give you low-latency wireless connections that you can use with Bluetooth simultaneously.

Soundstage

I thought it would be fitting to directly compare the PlayStation version of the Maxwell to the Pulse Elite for obvious reasons and to see how they handle Tempest 3D audio with the PS5. Testing was also done on PC, but only the XBOX version allows you to use Dolby Atmos. Listening to the Maxwell in Dolby Atmos wields better results in terms of spatial performance. Still, since we’re comparing it with the Pulse Elite, it’s fairer to judge the soundstage based on how it functions with the PlayStation.

Even with these parameters set, the Maxwell still impresses me more with its soundstage than the Pulse Elite. While Sony’s headphone showcases better pure stereo dynamics than most of its other efforts, the Maxwell still outclasses it. No matter how it acts in 3D, you can still tell which headphone has the better soundstage based on stereo accuracy and depth. The Maxwell shows a better identity with specific effects and music through the left and right channels, enwrapping your head in an immersive sonic environment before you even activate spatial audio. The Pulse Elite should get some credit though for exercising breathability in the soundstage. It allows for sounds to also feel more localized in a specific place, but the Maxwell is more elegant with its imaging overall.

Listening to sounds whirl around you like wind or flames over the Maxwell has more movement behind it than the Pulse Elite. However, switching to 3D makes them more similar in terms of spaciousness. The Maxwell still retains its superior accuracy and width over the Pulse Elite, but the Pulse Elite has more of a hovering effect. In this case, the 3D audio might be more fun with the Pulse Elite as sounds are propelled into a more forward headspace. The Maxwell still has the better height and depth though, featuring a better scale to singular sound elements than the Pulse Elite.

Low End

I respect the level of balance that the Pulse Elite exhibits with its lows like the bass has restraint to it. This might not be what you’re looking for in a pair of gaming headphones, but it can make a difference in terms of clearer sound fidelity. Thankfully, you can boost the bass to your liking with the PlayStation’s EQ, which adds more presence and texture to the bass frequencies. With the Maxwell, the bass features greater impact and rumble throughout its sound signature. It slams down with a quick, thunderous vibration of tone. Surprisingly, the bass never gets out of control with this response. The Maxwell presents a sub-bass that makes all the difference, giving a pointed buzz to bass-heavy sound effects and instruments.

Mids

Both headphones exhibit a V-shaped sound profile. This is common for a lot of gaming headphones, but that doesn’t stop the Maxwell and Pulse Elite from showcasing better properties. This is thanks to their planar drivers, which make the mids come across a bit more transparently, but the Maxwell ends up with better balance than the Elite. You can hear a dip in energy when dialogue occurs over both headphones, but neither push sounds toward the background. I think the Pulse Elite just comes across as a hollower timbre overall compared to the Maxwell. When it’s time for both headphones to show excitement in the upper-mids, the Maxwell feels a lot more detailed. The Pulse Elite has some good energy to it here, but the resolution isn’t as clear.

Highs

While the Maxwell outdoes a lot of what the Pulse Elite can do in terms of fidelity, the highs appear surprisingly more lifelike. The Maxwell has solid crispness in its treble, but the timbre is more veiled than the Pulse Elite. It appears less believable than the Pulse Elite, which is more expressive in comparison. There’s more brightness to it, but the response rings out more and takes on a clearer shape than the Maxwell. It can be a bit peaky and forward, but I prefer its coloration over the colder high frequencies that the Maxwell presents.

Summary

Sony’s future gaming headsets have the opportunity to take more of what the Maxwell does right, but for now, both headphones still have their pros and cons. The Maxwell sounds like a great headphone in general, while it’s hard to find much use for the Pulse Elite outside of gaming on your PS5. The Elite does surprise me though, with its expressive highs, easy adjustability, and generous price point.

The Audeze Maxwell is available at Audio46, and the Sony PlayStation Pulse Elite is available from Sony here.

The post Sony PlayStation Pulse Elite Vs Audeze Maxwell Comparison Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

What You Get

Look & Feel

By far, the biggest change that the Unveiled made from the original is its grille-less design and magnetic veil. This has more advantages to its sound properties than it does to aesthetics or comfort. It also makes the Unveield a much more high-maintenance headphone than the original with its driver all but exposed. The original Susvara has a much more common open-back design that you can easily identify as part of HiFiMAN’s catalog. It’s also slightly larger than the Unveiled and feels it has a much stiffer frame. Both Susvaras are expertly crafted though, with a level of build quality that exemplifies the height of HiFiMAN’s design. If you’re worried about weight, the Unveiled is slightly lighter than the original, but both are still lightweight and comfortable with hardly any force that needs to be applied to obtain the best seal.

Design

With the original Susvara, HiFiMAN established their Stealth Magnet technology that’s been a part of most of their headphones since. These magnets are known for allowing acoustic waves to pass through them without generating interference. What the Unvield adds to this design is maximizing the space between those magnets within the diaphragm to increase precision and spatial properties. What will make the most difference though is what it takes to drive these headphones. The original Susvara is notoriously hard to drive, requiring a powerful amp to get to a comfortable level. With the Unveiled, a good amp is still recommended, but I find it a bit more versatile than the original. Usually, I wouldn’t use products like the Chord Mojo 2 or the Fiio K19 with the Susvara, but they power the Unveiled very efficiently.

Soundstage

Where these headphones intersect the most is in their soundstage and imaging. It’s extremely hard to compare their intricacies when both headphones are the best of their kind here. No other headphones can so effortlessly reproduce the exact positioning and graceful pan movement of each sound. The Susvara’s can communicate an incredible amount of stereo realism and breathability with every instrument and effect played through them. I can’t discern any significant differences between these two headphones and how they go about presenting their phenomenal soundstage and spatial imaging presentation. If anything, the Unveiled might have less height than the original due to its smoother treble which lessens the airiness that the original has. However, you can expect similar depth and layering with both Susvaras.

Low End

The bass frequencies have the most immediate clash in tone, bringing forth the most discernable difference between the two Susvaras. I would consider both headphones neutral in their timbre across almost the entirety of their frequency spectrums, but the Unveiled has more of a consistent warmth. There was a more apparent bloom of sub-bass and mid-bass texture that coated the frequency response, while still presenting its bass with the same amount of finesse as the original. Both headphones dive deep, but the foundation of the bass is slightly elevated with the Unveiled. Sometimes the specific amp combo you use with the original can offer you a similar response, but it feels more like a consistent tone with the Unveiled. This might not fit with the realism that the original Susvara is known for, but both headphones offer full bass clarity with neutral tuning.

Mids

It’s hard to find many elements of the midrange that one does better than the other. Both Susvaras showcase incredible transparency, with detailed instruments that feel like they’re put directly under a microscope. Again, they feature a strong neutral tuning, but the sound elements always have a clear body to them. I think the Unveild appears a bit lusher than the original, enunciating notes with a bit more strike to them. This could be seen as taking away some subtlety and articulation, but I feel like it enhances the experience for me. It offers a different flavor of tone compared to the original, which can be seen as lacking edge, especially with vocals.

Highs

Both Susvara’s are smooth and sparkly in their highs. They present easy-to-digest tones that never overly brighten the sound signature, but still keep its exquisite detail. I feel like the Unveiled might feature the most smoothness, as the original can still enter airy territory. The Unveiled brings the highs down to a more surface foundation while still featuring tons of depth. With the original, the highs have more of a crisp sheen to them that never exert any peaks. I can’t say which one I prefer, as glistening details exist with both Susvaras.

Summary

Comparing two of the most prestigious headphones in the audiophile market can be a daunting task, but the similarities and differences between the Susvaras became pretty clear to me. I always appreciated the original Susvara for its unbelievable realism and natural detail, but the Unveield feels a bit more expressive to me. The bass and mids give me something more to bite on than just standard neutrality and with the headphones being easier to drive, the sound signature has more of a consistency to it. That is what I can see people spending more on, as their current system might already be able to run it. This makes the original Susvara more of a potential investment that will match the price of the new one anyway.

The HiFiMAN Susvara and Susvara Unveiled are available at Audio46.

The post HiFiMAN Susvara Vs Susvara Unveiled Comparison Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

Sony MDR-7506

The Sony MDR-7506 has been a staple in the recording industry for years. Its flat sound profile makes it ideal for mixing, although it does have a few quirks. The sub-bass rolloff and peaks at 2 kHz and 4 kHz are noticeable. Additionally, there’s a huge dip at 10 kHz, which can be a drawback. However, in a mixing setting, these frequencies can become ultra-fatiguing, so the Sony MDR-7506 remains a solid choice. Its closed-back design adds versatility, making it suitable for multiple applications.

Sennheiser HD620s

The Sennheiser HD620s offers a sound profile similar to the other models in the 600 series but with a closed-back design, making it perfect for mixing in loud environments. It provides a flat sound with a bit more bass than the HD600, closely aligning with the Harman curve. The 2024 model features upgraded comfort with a wider headband, ensuring long sessions are more bearable. Its detachable cable design and Sennheiser’s excellent quality control make it an excellent tool for monitoring and mixing live sound.

Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro X LE

The Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro X LE retains the classic sound of the DT770 but with significant enhancements. The detachable cable increases durability, while the bump in high-mids and low highs provides detailed sound that fans of the DT770 are used to. This headphone excels in sound isolation and accurate soundstage, making it perfect for pinpointing sounds and creating a balanced mix. The 48-ohm design means it’s easy to drive with almost any device, making it versatile for various mixing environments.

Audeze LCD-X

The Audeze LCD-X offers a unique mixing experience with extra bass and a 1.5 kHz push, providing a somewhat flat sound with more bass extension. This headphone is great for EQing modern tracks and balancing a mix. Its durable metal design, ultra-plush earpads, and huge 106mm drivers make it easy to hear through the soundscape with discernible holographic features. The 2024 revision reduces the scoop in the treble frequencies and using an amp still brings out its full potential. Despite its weight, the LCD-X is comfortable for extended listening sessions and the 2024 it’s lighter than previous versions.

Sennheiser HD600

The Sennheiser HD600 remains a standard mixing tool, known for its super flat sound with a slight midrange bump. Its focused sound lets you get the most out of most tracks without impacting the flatness of the sound signature. With a 300-ohm resistance, you’ll need an amp to use these, but once driven, you get superb clarity and revealing bass. This professional tool is perfect for those seeking one of the flattest headphones in production. Hand-assembled with a 2-year warranty, the HD600 is lightweight and excellent for engineers on a budget. Its cable is easily replaceable, and most parts are swappable due to its long-standing presence in the market.

Hifiman HE1000 Stealth

The Hifiman HE1000 Stealth offers a relatively flat response with added growl in the high bass/low mids and well-tuned treble. The balanced, analytical treble is non-fatiguing, and the dynamic mids provide excellent vocal detail. With a headband design similar to the Susvara, the HE1000 Stealth is super comfortable and fits almost all head shapes. Although Hifiman had quality control issues four years ago, they have since produced some of the most reliable headphones on the market. Paired with an amp, these headphones deliver a full range frequency response, allowing you to hear detailed performances and transient sounds clearly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right mixing headphones can make all the difference in your music production. Each of these headphones offers unique features and sound profiles, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you prioritize comfort, sound isolation, or detailed accuracy, these headphones are the best options for mixing in 2024.

Get All the Products Mentioned and MUCH MORE at Audio 46

The post Best Mixing Headphones in 2024 appeared first on Major HiFi.

What You Get

Look & Feel

The Alba and Kato have spectacular designs that are based on their price points. They’re very different designs that both surpass what’s typical in that range. With that Kato, you have a few different color variations, like its glossy chrome, blue, and matte. The Alba only has its white color, but it’s still an eye-popping look that has the same sleekness that you’d expect from Meze. In terms of fit, both the Alba and Kato are very comfortable. You have a smaller housing with the Alba, and it sits in your ear a bit easier, but the Kato is also very ergonomic.

Design

These are both single-driver IEMs that are similarly sized, with the Kato featuring the most advanced configuration. The Kato utilizes a DLC diaphragm that has high rigidity and dampening. Both IEMs are very easy to drive, but the Alba is the only option that includes its own DAC/Amp dongle. This is a UBC-C dongle that is quite good and comes packaged with the Alba.

Soundstage

When it comes to Moondrop and Meze, you know you’re getting a good soundstage. Both IEMs offer superb depth for their respective prices. They offer a similar amount of width and scale to their sound signatures, with a full scope of sound to immerse yourself in. While they’re both winners here, they still have slightly different spatial characteristics. For instance, the Kato has an airier presentation to its imaging, while the Alba is more focused on precision and accuracy. They both accomplish non-linearity in their imaging, but the Alba appears like a truer stereo field than the Kato. If you’re looking for something more holographic, the Kato will feature more expanded layers, but the Alba feels more realistic.

Low End

Both IEMs have a tight bass response with good control. The Alba is a bit more concise in its low-end detail retrieval, resulting in a quicker response that feels like there’s more velocity behind the frequencies. The Kato is much smoother in comparison, terminating with a more apparent texture that fills out the tone. Like the soundstage though, the Alba and Kato have more similarities than not. They both feel similarly accurate in their response, both showcasing exceptional low-end clarity for the price.

Mids

While both the Alba and Kato feature great midrange details that surpass what most IEMs can do, they’re the most different from each other in terms of timbre. I was more surprised by just how rich the Kato is in the mids compared to the Alba, but that’s barely a knock against the latter. The Alba is very casual with its midrange tuning, and it allows for some dips in energy sometimes. However, this is never distracting, and the Alba is still able to provide roominess and specificity to the sound elements. The Kato is a bit livelier in comparison, mixing in more texture and musicality to its midrange response.

Highs

The Alba has the most feeling in its highs, providing a striking glisten in its upper region. With the Kato, you get some great crispness in the treble, but the way they appear in the mix is much softer than the Alba. You might get some better height on the Kato, but it’s a much airier presentation where the frequencies dissipate much quicker.

Summary

The Kato and Alba are both at the top of their class and have tons of value for what they are. They have the best designs for their price and feature different tunings that share tons of benefits. I don’t think one is truly better than the other, but your decision will depend on personal tastes. For instance, I prefer the precise soundstage and detailed bass and highs of the Alba, but the Kato is more crisp in its midrange and treble. Honestly, because these are relatively inexpensive IEMs, why not have both?

The Meze Alba and Moondrop Kato are available at Audio46.

The post Meze Alba Vs Moondrop Kato Comparison Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

What You Get

• RA15 IEMs
• 2-pin 3.5mm cable
• Drawstring pouch
• Four pairs of silicone eartips
• Bright and Warm sound tubes
• User Guide

Look & Feel

The RA15 must be one of the best-constructed IEMs for less than a hundred dollars. While the body of the earphones feels standard for NF Audio, the metal cast shells are very impressive. It brings durability to its structure, helping protect the RA15’s components, especially with its removable nozzles. Although the RA15 sports a great build, I don’t think they have the best seal. The top of the housing seems to always stick out of my ears, requiring me to push them back in a few times before I feel like they sit right.

Design

Inside the RA15 is a dynamic driver that uses a high polymer composite diaphragm. It uses a dual-magnet circuit design with one Tesla of magnetic flux. This increases sensitivity, as well as provides a more significant driving force.

Soundstage

The RA15 joins a few IEMs that give you impressive soundstage and imaging properties for less than a hundred dollars. The recent DUNU Titan S2 is also in this club, as well as the Moondrop Aria. What makes the RA15 stick out is its precision compared to those models. While others might concentrate more on spaciousness and dimension, the RA15 focuses more on true accuracy and stereo width. Most of its imaging feels like a straight line across the sound field, but its presentation is never bland. The instruments and effects still show a satisfying scale in the mix, and although it doesn’t encapsulate your head the RA15 offers a good amount of headspace. I was immersed in its spatial properties without it featuring the greatest depth. Thanks to its excellent localization, everything that came through the RA15 has enough identity to feel believable.

Low End

At first, I thought the lack of bass I was getting had something to do with not having the right tuning nozzle attached. When I switched them, the bass timbre became even less significant. My initial impressions of the bass must have been with the warm tuning nozzles attached, which is a little disappointing. If there is a warmth to this bass, it’s not a texture that you can easily feel when listening to any track.

The warm nozzles have a strong mid-bass focus, but it’s a very tight, surface-level response. I didn’t mind it, but I don’t think the tone is significant enough to label a whole extension for it. The sub-bass feels missing, like there’s no foundation to the sound signature. It has a clear shape, but very little body. The bass has a clear, satisfying presence with the warm nozzles, but it feels too reserved most of the time.

Mids

The midrange is very clean and detailed. Instruments and effects have tons of room to showcase fullness and clarity through a wide range of frequencies. They’re brought a bit more forward than the bass, but they mostly stick to an even level of energy. Some of the upper-mids have the most heat to them but are kept under control. At its best, it can make notes extra punctual, but it also tends to sharpen the tone a bit too much. That’s without the bright nozzles too. There’s tons of finesse to these mids though, and it overall creates a very exciting timbre for the price despite some of its quirks.

Highs

No matter what nozzles you’re using, the RA15 always tends to have bright spots. With the warm nozzle, that brightness is concentrated in the upper-mids and treble range. Using the bright nozzles, the brightness takes up a much larger surface area of high frequencies. The texture of this brightness doesn’t bring much flavor to the performances, it just creates height and more present peaks. It can be a bit overbearing, but the detail is there. I much preferred the highs with the warm nozzles, as the tone is still bright, but the peaks are a bit more under control.

Summary

NF Audio has provided some cool designs that make them stand out among the pack. While the nozzles might not have provided what I expected them to, it’s still a great way to modify the sound to fit your tastes. Aside from some of its peaky highs, the sound of the RA15 is very enjoyable, with its wide soundstage and detailed midrange that emphasizes musicality.

The NF Audio RA15 is available from HiFiGO.

The post NF Audio RA15 Review appeared first on Major HiFi.

Unboxing the Susvara Unveiled

What’s Inside:

• Pair of headphones
• 3m headphone cable (4-pin XLR plug)
• 3m headphone cable (6.35mm plug)
• Pair of Magnetic Veils
• Pair of ear pads (mounted on headphone)
• Owner’s Guide

Superior Build Quality

The Susvara Unveiled epitomizes luxury and durability. Designed for longevity, it features a solid metal headband and high-quality leather ear cups, ensuring comfort during extended listening sessions. I wore these headphones for hours and never experienced any fatigue, a testament to their ergonomic design. The exposed drivers lend a sophisticated, futuristic aesthetic, protected by magnetic veils when not in use. This thoughtful construction enhances both visual appeal and performance, creating a premium user experience.

Cutting-Edge Design

Hifiman has equipped the Susvara Unveiled with advanced technical features that set it apart in the realm of high-end headphones. Central to its design is the Nanometer Thickness Diaphragm. The diaphragm’s low mass enables rapid response times, ensuring precise and accurate sound reproduction. This feature is crucial for capturing the nuances in complex musical compositions.

Another standout feature is the Stealth Magnet technology. These acoustically transparent magnets minimize interference with sound waves emanating from the diaphragm, preserving audio signal integrity for a cleaner, more natural sound. This design innovation helps the Susvara Unveiled maintain the purity of the original recording, providing an authentic listening experience.

The unique driver architecture further boosts efficiency and performance. Conductors on the diaphragm are arranged to deliver powerful sound with minimal distortion, enhancing the immersive listening experience. This arrangement allows the Susvara Unveiled to deliver more with less power, providing a cleaner and more immersive listening experience.

The ear pads, made from a blend of polyester and protein leather, balance softness with durability. Their asymmetrical shape looks to provide a snug fit, optimizing both comfort and sound isolation. This thoughtful design not only enhances the comfort of extended listening sessions but also contributes to the overall acoustic performance of the headphones.

Sound Impressions

The Susvara Unveiled retains the essence of the original Susvara while introducing incremental improvements for a more refined sound. These headphones are easier to drive and offer a more polished audio experience. It’s sophisticated with a frequency response that is balanced and impactful. For most of my listening, I used the exquisite Enleum HPA-23RM.

Low End: The bass response is natural and warm, striking a perfect balance without being overwhelming. It’s precise, with dynamic drum hits that feel just right. Tracks like Radiohead’s “15 Step” showcase the controlled yet powerful bass, providing an enjoyable listening experience. The bass is refined, offering a sound palette that is cohesive and carefully tuned. This naturalness in the bass response ensures that the Susvara Unveiled delivers a satisfying low end without overpowering the rest of the frequency range.

Mids: The standout feature of the Susvara Unveiled is the midrange. It’s spacious and present, without being overpowering. This headphone delivers a holistic midrange that fits seamlessly into any genre. Whether it’s creamy vocals or crunchy guitar tones, the Susvara Unveiled handles it all with ease. Listening to Sturgill Simpson’s “Johnny Blue Skies” revealed a roomy, natural sound with smooth vocals and tactile percussive hits. The midrange is delicately balanced, providing a rich and immersive listening experience that highlights the intricacies of each track.

Top End: There’s a balanced treble, providing clacky percussive force without harshness. Sibilant sounds are rounded and well-shaped, delivering a smooth yet tactile top end. On Clairo’s album “Charm,” the Susvara Unveiled presented a lush and rich sound, maintaining the cool texture of the original mix. The treble performance is a testament to the meticulous engineering of the Susvara Unveiled, offering a high-frequency response that is both smooth and dynamic.

Immersive Soundstage

The Susvara Unveiled offers an expansive soundstage that immerses you in the music. Rather than simple left-right imaging, it creates a 360-degree sound field. This creates an intimate, room-like experience where the music envelops you naturally, enhancing the overall listening experience. The soundstage is almost like an absence of a soundstage, where the music feels all around you, providing an immersive and captivating listening experience that makes you feel as though you are part of the music itself.

Final Thoughts

The Susvara Unveiled aims to make you forget you’re wearing headphones. Its design minimizes external materials, while its sound presentation is both refined and effortless. The naturalistic soundstage and premium construction make it an exceptional choice for serious audiophiles. Every aspect of the Susvara Unveiled, from its advanced technical features to its luxurious build quality, contributes to an unparalleled listening experience.

While it carries a premium price tag, the Susvara Unveiled justifies the investment with its unparalleled performance. Awarded the MajorHifi Gold, it stands as one of the crowning jewels of high-end audio. If you have the chance to experience the Susvara Unveiled, don’t miss it. It’s a worthy addition to any audiophile’s collection. This headphone is not just a product; it’s an experience that elevates your appreciation of music to new heights.

The Hifiman Susvara Unveiled is available for pre-order at Audio46.

The post Hifiman Susvara Unveiled Review appeared first on Major HiFi.