Zaylli Lyrö review: Retro on-ear, benchmark sound?

Intro: When Zaylli initially reached out to me with their WIP product — a retro-looking on-ear headphone "Lyrö" launching on Kickstarter — I was admittedly skeptical. I hadn't heard of the brand, and we’re all too familiar with audio Kickstarters that promise the moon but fail to deliver a viable product.But my doubts were quickly … Continue reading Zaylli Lyrö review: Retro on-ear, benchmark sound?

FiiO FT13 review: a case of overengineering

Intro: Following the success of the FT1, high expectations were naturally placed upon Fiio's new closed-back, the FT13. Anticipated to be an upgrade into the more premium segment, the specs certainly show ambition: an updated large 60mm dynamic driver housed in an attractive purpleheart wood enclosure.Sound-wise, it is more complicated. While the driver shows exceptional … Continue reading FiiO FT13 review: a case of overengineering

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro review: a flexible but imperfect solution

Intro: Since Sonova took over Sennheiser's consumer electronics division, the company’s professional arm has been relatively quiet. Launched in early 2024, the HD490 Pro stands out as one of its main entries into the studio space.Marketed as a professional studio headphone, the HD490 Pro includes two sets of earpads: a set of "Producer pads" made … Continue reading Sennheiser HD 490 Pro review: a flexible but imperfect solution