Category: measurement

Review of Audio Technica ATH-R70xa: a new take on neutrality

~ sai ~ 14 Comments

Intro: The mid-fi open-back headphone market has long been dominated by Sennheiser—and if you go further back, AKG had its share of influence too (sorry, Beyer fans). But in recent years, competition has intensified with the rise of more well-tuned alternatives, including affordable models by Focal and Hifiman, more recently, Aune. This year, Audio Technica, … Continue reading Review of Audio Technica ATH-R70xa: a new take on neutrality

Review of Aune SR7000: a closed-back that doesn’t sound like one

~ sai ~ 22 Comments

Cut from the same cloth? Intro: I previously reviewed Aune's first over-ear headphone, the AR5000, which I found to be a strong entry into the market with its well-balanced tuning and solid overall value. Now, Aune is back with its second headphone: the SR7000, a closed-back model priced at almost double the AR5000. Right out … Continue reading Review of Aune SR7000: a closed-back that doesn’t sound like one

Audio Technica ATH-R70xa: Measurement and First Impression

~ sai ~ 18 Comments

Disclaimer: this unit is purchased and owned by unheardlab. First impression: I like how these sound. Going in, I was expecting a neutral/warm neutral tuning based on my previous experiences with the R70X. That said, it’s been a while since I last heard the R70X, so I can’t provide a direct comparison as much as … Continue reading Audio Technica ATH-R70xa: Measurement and First Impression

Review of Focal Utopia 2022: a pricey refinement

~ sai ~ 1 Comment

Upgrade, downgrade or side-grade? Intro: I’ve reviewed several Focal headphones here before, ranging from the budget-friendly Elear to higher-end models like the Clear MG Pro and the Radiance. Focal’s rich, engaging tuning has always been to my taste. This time, I have here Focal’s latest flagship, the Utopia 2022. With a significant price premium, does … Continue reading Review of Focal Utopia 2022: a pricey refinement

Review of Hifiman HE1000se (2023): silent revisions?

~ sai ~ 26 Comments

Intro: I've tested almost every Hifiman teardrop/eggshaped headphone. Released back in 2018 at a price of US$ 3,499, the HE1000se was once their flagship model before the new "Unveiled" series. However, it’s also known as one of their brightest-sounding headphones, making it somewhat divisive. Over time, as newer models entered the lineup, the HE1000se’s retail … Continue reading Review of Hifiman HE1000se (2023): silent revisions?