Review of Sennheiser HD 505: a great listen but a tough sell?

Intro: EDIT 8 August 2025: The HD505 has recently been available at 30-40% off during Amazon sales (AU$275, RRP AU$449). At these discounted prices, the value proposition is significantly stronger, and I highly recommend them.Right out of the box, the HD505 feels like a typical Sennheiser headphone: mostly plastic, yet well-built and robust. It doesn’t … Continue reading Review of Sennheiser HD 505: a great listen but a tough sell?

Audio Technica ATH-R70xa: Measurement and First Impression

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

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?

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?