The Audiophile World

NEWS UPDATES

2026-08-11T03:22:34.039+02:00

DIRECT LINKS TO ARTICLES

- News Updates

- My Collection of Audio Equipment (updated October 21st, 2023)

- Direct Links to Reviews (updated August 10th, 2026 - 18:20)

- Audio Counterpoint Articles (updated January 17th, 2025)

- Archived Reviews (2025 articles added)

- Impressions (updated October 12th, 2024)

- LAOCAS "Outer Limits of Audio"

- All Things Lavricables (Limited Review Series 2025)

- KIMBER KABLES "The Axios Affair" (Limited Review Series 2026)

Donnerstag (Thursday), the Third of September 2026

CanJam Socal 2026 was an epic show. I had an opportunity to properly hear several Richard Grado products. It was truly an ear opening experience. My Grado RS1 and GS3000e are the only two models in my vast arsenal of headphones. I want to properly review the Grado HP100-SE and hear what it is capable of in my system. I also briefly heard the Meze Audio ARTA.

WOW!

Montag (Monday), the Tenth of August 2026

19:46 - I have finally launched my first Kimber Axios article. Check it out -> LINK

18:20 - No-One You published his first article. Check out the link -> EDITOR: The FiiO-JadeAudio JT7

New articles coming soon.

My first long-term review with the Kimber Axios Ag cable and I paired it with the new Meze closed-back product, The STRADA. Read all about it. The next article is in relation to the Fiio/Jade Audio JT7 planar headphone.

CanJam Socal is happening on the 29th and 30th of August 2026 at the Irvine Marriott.

Stay Tuned for more updates.

Mittwoch (Wednesday), the Eighth of July 2026

I am relying on Amazon Affiliate Marketing along with Google Adsense to keep this blog alive. Please click on the links in each of the review articles to keep the potential of this site strong.

Sincere Thanks.

In other news, I am conducting an in-depth review of an offline library music server that I reviewed in the past. The current version, 2.9 is Audiofile Engineering's latest release of The Fidelia Player. There was a time I was using both Audirvana and Fidelia to hear the differences. Very close and yet I gravitated toward Audiofile's player because it had a tubelike quality to the sound. Then I discovered the customization features of Audirvana and they were nearly matched. For more information, please stay tuned for a new article featuring The Fidelia Player.

Dienstag (Tuesday), the Seventh of July 2026

I guess...

Better late than never...

My thoughts and opinions shared with my editor to review the original Audeze Maxwell audiophile gaming planar headphone. Here's the link -> The Audeze Maxwell.

Sonnetag (Sunday), the Twentieth of June 2026

The Meze Audio STRADA continues to deliver excellent and refined tunes. Especially when paired with the Kimber Kable Axios Ag terminated 4.4mm Pentacon balanced. Currently, the STRADA is connected to my desktop system featuring my reference solid-state line-stage head amp, the Benchmark Media HPA4.

Some Good Food for Thought

Donnerstag (Thursday), the Fourth of June 2026

Just completed the purchase of the Auribus Acoustics Sierra Reference headphone SN-0040. After two-years of enjoyment including a few reviews, I purchased the brand-new pair of cans. I am preparing a set of articles in relation to four headphone cable upgrades that would be paired with the Sierra Reference. The first being the Kimber Kable Axios Ag in 4.4mm Pentacon balanced termination. This should be an interesting series to write about.

Dienstag (Tuesday), the Nineteenth of May 2026

Audirvana Studio 3.1.0. is a wonderfully made music server program. I have been using Audirvana since 1.x.x. That's a long time with a single program. Having my Macbook Pro with the audio server software handling all things Qobuz and localized playback is godsend. Now I find out half my physics staff utilizes Audirvana through my influence and they too also stream from Qobuz. Since I'm in Hamburg, Germany, I am able to access Qobuz albums not available in the United States. I can't purchase them since my account is on the U.S. side, however, I can stream them. The collection is a bit different and less restrained.

Some Food for Thought.

Stay Tuned for more updates.

Sonnetag (Sunday), the Seventeenth of May 2026

Will be in Germany till the 25th of May. No audio events. Just my day job requiring for me to give a lecture and bring twenty of my best students to UCI. It will be a good week to brush up on what's happening in Hamburg. Just me, my friend and lawyer, and toward the end of the week, my students. If I have any free time, I will go to my favorite audio shop in Munich and check out the latest wares and probably a grab a bunch of NOS tubes.

Other news. I am working on a second article featuring the Meze Audio STRADA and Kimber Axios Ag. It will be the first combination since receiving the cables almost two-years ago. My day job seems to be getting in the way of my writing of reviews. I hope to rectify this during the summer.

Oh. One more thought. The Audeze LCD-5s has been fully burned-in and will be posting content in the form of a two-prong review. My editor has some thoughts about the new Audeze planar magnetic flagship, which is separate from my in-depth version of the same product.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Mittwoch (Wednesday), the Twenty-Ninth of April 2026

This is a long time coming, but here are my thoughts about the new Meze Audio STRADA. Here's the link -> LINK.

Dienstag (Tuesday), the Tenth of March 2026

My editor has something say about his Audeze LCD-5 Journey. Stay tuned for updates on that.

Secondly. I'm preparing to publish my thoughts and observations in regard to the Meze Audio STRADA headphone. It will be split into two chapters because I can't cover everything in one article. Please stay tune for the second chapter.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Montag (Monday), the Second of March 2026

Currently beta testing Audirvana Studio 2.99.19.0 and aside from the "~~Previous Track~~" ~~button failing~~ (problem resolved by performing a DISM and SFC repair via Windows Command) from performing the function, the sonic performance and interface improvements are top notch. I have used Audirvana during its early days of its "Free" version till now. It's one of the most versatile music server applications I have encountered in my quest for the reference audiophile computer-based media center. My thanks to the engineers and community of Audirvana. I am preparing a review of Audirvana soon.

One more update. Just a few moments ago, I renewed my subscription of Audirvana Studio on a different account to support the application and serve as my primary music server.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Sonnetag (Sunday), the First of March 2026

The Meze Audio STRADA (Street) is ready to conduct the first series of listening groups (movies, shows, and gaming - critical listening to follow). Stay Tuned for more details.

Samstag (Saturday), the Twenty-First of February 2026

The Meze Audio STRADA is half-way toward the 300-hour settling phase. There will be two chapters highlighting the performance before and after cable upgrades. The LIRIC-2 will be featured in two articles. One standing on its own with the included cable. The second article titled "The Tale of Two LIRICs" will compare the original LIRIC with the second-generation featuring the Quarter Wave Resonance Mask or QWRM and the Lavricables Master Line Silver upgrade in single-ended configuration.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Samstag (Saturday), the Fourteenth of February 2026

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone.

On loan from the good people of Meze Audio is the greatly anticipated STRADA and my heart's desire LIRIC-2. There's a 90-percent chance that I will acquire both of these headphones toward the end of the loan period. After about an hour of listening, the STRADA is an evolution in the closed-back line of products from Meze. It's really good and can't wait to show it to the members of the LAOCAS. I am pairing both the STRADA and LIRIC-2 with both the Kimber Axios Ag and the Lavricables Master Line Silver. Should be interesting.

Oh!

One more thought.

As it stands, my Meze Audio collections consist of the ELITE, OG Empyrean, LIRIC, 105 AER, and 109 PRO headphones. At the end of the loan period, I am requesting to purchase the STRADA and LIRIC-2 adding into my permanent collection.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Sonnetag (Sunday), the First of February 2026

Well. Something happened at the Audio Society's Audeze event.

Let's just say that I can push forward with the review of the successor to the LCD-5 planar flagship headphone. Before I start writing the review, I have to put the LCD-5s through its paces.

Yep. I got the LCD-5s at an Audeze event and I will put together a short take review highlighting the differences from the 5 and 5s. Should be interesting.

Freitag (Friday), the Twenty-Third of January 2026

The Los Angeles Orange County Audio Society's next event is the Audeze exhibition held at the Doubletree by Hilton in Buena Park. To prepare for this event, I checked out the brand's website and found the LCD-5s and Maxwell-2 pages. Two models that have been upgraded in a second generation featuring a technology observed on the CRBN-2 electrostatic headphones. I got to hear this headphone at the event and compare the two (LCD-5 vs LCD-5s) to determine should I purchase one at the exhibition.

Dienstag (Tuesday), the Twentieth of January 2026

Here's my short take of the Fiio FT13 closed-back headphone. The suede ear cushions allow the headphones to sound its best while utilizing the included cable. Detailed, smooth, and full-bodied without emphasizing or attenuating any part of the frequency response. I can't understand the conceptual descriptions such as light or dark sounding terms; what I can state the Fiio FT13 is well rounded headphone. Worth every ounce of time spent listening to albums and other general listening sessions. The soundstage is expansive with excellent detail retrieval. The noise isolation is pretty good, especially when music or audio is being played through the 60mm drivers.

Some Good Food for Thought

Donnerstag (Thursday), the Fifteenth of January 2026

Happy New Year Everybody.

Just acquired the Moondrop Para 2 and the Fiio FT13 headphones. Both of these brands and models were on my Wishlist and now fulfilled. It's great to have a small operating budget through AdSense and product sales to fund this review site. I plan to publish a few reviews that are long overdue and were put on the back burner due to work obligations. Stay tuned for more updates.

EDITOR: The FiiO-JadeAudio JT7

2026-08-11T03:19:36.188+02:00

Attending LAOCAS meetings at various audio retailers and hi-fi conventions exposes one to a myriad of sound reproduction equipment. Audio manufacturers are constantly improving their products through Research and Development to deliver maximum enjoyment to their customers. Unfortunately, R&D costs money which can impact the consumer pricing of the finished product. There is a side benefit to this saga. Some companies distill their research and apply it to affordable products in their lineup.

FiiO is a consumer electronics company that produces products for the music lovers of the world. Their top-of-the-line products include features and refinements competitive with their peers. FiiO also applies their R&D and manufacturing expertise to their affordable products.

Introducing the FiiO/JadeAudio JT7 Open Planar Over-Ear Headphone. Packaged simply, the JT7 comes compactly folded, in a felt bag with separate 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm standard headphone cables. Also included in the box is a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter. The headphone comes equipped with a padded metal headband that has click-stops for adjustment of ear cup position and fitment. The ear cups swivel enough to allow the headphone to be laid flat if desired. As of this writing in Summer of 2026, this planar headphone is available online for $120 USD or less. To summarize, the FiiO/JadeAudio JT7 is a comfortable to wear and highly affordable headphone.

As an affordable planar headphone, the question remains, "How does it sound?" Now is the time to listen.

Straight out of the box I plugged it into a DAP and thought it sounded fine. Actually, I was quite surprised how good it reproduced the selections I fed it. If it sounded this good now, would it improve after some hours of burn in? I decided to run them continuously for a few days to exercise the drivers and burn in the supplied cables.

Remember readers, the FiiO/JadeAudio JT7 is an affordably priced, entry level planar headphone. Weighing in at 318g, it doesn't make its presence felt on your neck muscles. It punches way above its weight class in sound staging, dynamics, frequency response and comfort.

Listening to classical music, the JT7 does a fine job of reproducing the orchestra and recording location. One example of this is an old Sheffield Lab release of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Stravinsky: The Firebird Suite (1910) and Debussy: Afternoon of a Faun. - CD 16/44.1 - It was recorded at MGM Sound Stage I, using a single point, stereo microphone. The recording venue was intimate, i.e., the room was small (compared to a concert hall). It becomes quite evident when the bass drum is hit and there is no hall reverberation. Since it was made using a single stereo microphone the positions of the instruments don't shift around. Percussion impacts were solid, particularly on the Stravinsky selection. The woodwinds and brass interplay is well preserved and presented. The instruments sound "real" without any odd colorations. The JT7 does a fine job of reproducing all the instruments in their respective positions without smearing or distortion. I was not expecting this from such an affordable headphone.

(Side note for classical music enthusiasts: The FiiO/JadeAudio JT7 does a fine job reproducing the Telarc or Reference Recordings bass drum with proper impact and extension.)

Going to a jazz selection, I just picked up the 2013 release, "People Music," by Christian McBride & Inside Straight - CD 16/44.1. Having "Kind of Brown," a 2009 release by the same ensemble, I am familiar with this genre of jazz. Consisting of bass, piano, drums, sax and vibes, this studio recording was wonderfully brought to life by the JT7. All the instruments were reproduced well and the interplay between musicians was a pleasure to experience. The planar magnetic drivers deliver the attacks of the percussive instruments, drums, vibes and piano with speed and accuracy. In other words, the music is reproduced very well by these headphones. I fully recommend these recordings and of course, the FiiO/JadeAudio JT7.

Here are a few quick observations on vocal reproduction. Spanish Harlem / Rebeca Pidgeon: If you're a regular to this site you are familiar with this selection. The JT7 does a great job of reproducing Pidgeon's voice, the backing instrumentation and the recording space on this audiophile track from Chesky Records. Another example of vocal music is a selection from the IsoMike Recordings 2005B sampler CD. Track 12 - Choir Test C: is a recording of a choir singing a cappella. The JT7 does a fine job reproducing the individual voices in the recording. "But how does it handle pop music?" you may ask. Using I'm Not Calling You A Liar / Florence + The Machine: With minimal instrumentation (mostly drums, harp and piano/organ), vocalist Florence Welch is front and center, with backing vocals floating around. The percussion is impactful. The JT7 delivers this song intact with all the drama and passion preserved on this recording.

Budding audiophiles, the price of entry has been lowered.

If you are a music lover seeking better sound reproduction but are on a tight budget, the FiiO/JadeAudio JT7 should be on your short list of headphones to audition. If on the other hand you can afford pricier headphones, still give the FiiO/JadeAudio JT7 a try. You may be surprised by the performance of this "modestly priced" headphone.

Any assets saved can translate into more music in hand.

As always, your mileage may vary. Enjoy listening.

The FiiO/JadeAudio JT7 -> LINK

The Kimber Axios Ag and the Meze Audio STRADA - Reference Headphone Refinement

2026-08-11T03:00:00.000+02:00

Sounds so clear, it's imperceptible. I can't hear anything.

I can agree with that statement to some degree or extent.

Kimber Kable products are excellent. They're made with materials that define their heart and soul. The Meze Audio STRADA closed-back headphones have the same passion for sound. It's a match made-in-heaven.

WHY CHOSE THE KIMBER AXIOS AG?

I requested both the Cu (mini-XLR) and Ag (3.5mm TRS) models in the Axios line. Each termination complements my collection of headphones that would have the optimal benefit with the given conductor material and driver tuning. Plus, I have always desired having a set of Kimber products to pair with the dizzying number of reference headphones in my constantly expanding arsenal.

HOW DOES THE STRADA SOUND WITH THE AXIOS AG?

The latest Meze Audio closed-back headphone delivers a clearer sound with deep, supportive bass, multi-layered midrange, and transparent treble energy. The Axios Ag doesn't make the STRADA sound sharper. It makes the headphone level up its refinement and accuracy without sounding clinical.

HOW MUCH ADDITIONAL BURN-IN WAS CONDUCTED?

Approximately 200 hours. The Kimber Axios Ag had about 1000+ hours of use with four headphones prior to the pairing with the STRADA.

THE EQUIPMENT:

- Audirvana Studio 3.1.0.0 with Qobuz Sublime and 4TB localized storage via SSD -> Esoteric K01XD <> Esoteric G1X via UIT PMP USB digital interconnect -> Benchmark HPA4 via UIT PMP XLR 2.0m balanced interconnects -> Meze Audio STRADA with the Kimber Kable Axios Ag 2.0m terminated 4.4mm Pentacon balanced headphone cable.

WHAT WE KNOW SO FAR...

The Meze Audio STRADA is a closed-back dynamic headphone featuring a Green Metallic Flake finish and Macassar Ebony Wood ear cup housings. It's quite elegant and adds character to the Meze Audio lineup. The sound is amazingly spacious beyond our planet's gravitational influence. The headphone could be mistaken for a third-generation LIRIC; however, the headband says STRADA thus eliminating potential confusion.

Sonically, the STRADA is a focused version of the 109 Pro with the excellent ambient noise isolation properties of both generations of the LIRIC planar headphones. Without utilizing cable upgrades, the STRADA is a tonally balanced, dynamic sounding headphone with treble refinement (smooth, clear, and without harshness) and deep bass extension similar to the LIRIC in both first- and second-generation models. The midrange layering isn't quite as detailed and focused like their Isodynamic line up, however, the cable I chose for this article will resolve it quickly.

HOW DOES IT SOUND?

The Kimber Axios Ag elevates the STRADA experience to another level. I will describe, in some detail, how it sounds.

HERE WE GO...

CRITICAL LISTENING WITH ALBUMS.

20th Anniversary Original Motion Picture Soundtrack - Jurassic Park by John Williams - FLAC 24/192 - The movie was great and the soundtrack amplified the emotions by providing ambiance through music. The 20th Anniversary remastered version is far more dynamic and impactful in its presentation compared to the CD-version (purchased physical media and then converted). The Kimber Axios Ag and STRADA combination resolved many of the delicate details that weren't present in the CD-version. The strings have just the right amount of edge (sonically) combined with the timbre and body to carry the emotional energy with the orchestra.

The fourth track "Journey to The Island", is delivered with the power, emotion, and fanfare that is the sound of Grammy Winning composer John Williams. The Kimber Axios Ag and the Meze Audio STRADA are capable of reproducing every note, stroke, passion, and energy as though experiencing the story without words or visual imagery. The movie and soundtrack are epically masterful in their ability to drive the emotion and story into the hearts of many. The combination of cable and headphone brings out the true power of this ensemble of Spielberg and Williams. It's a masterful performance. The strings, horns, and percussion are refined by the Kimber Kable Axios Ag cable and elevated through the STRADA's drivers.

"Malletoba Spank" - Duke Ellington's Jazz Party - 16/44.1 FLAC - I have to find a different album to test instrument separation and soundstage presence. The clarity and transparency of this track is mesmerizing to experience through the Kimber Axios Ag and the Meze STRADA duo. The sharp and gentle treble notes are highlighted in a way that's quite surreal and realistic (I can only imagine). The spatial feeling of this recording is quite large, which wasn't previously experienced in the first article. The sonic expression of the 9-piece percussion section (I have to read the production notes) feels quite realistic in a way that I swear I am hearing the instruments live or from a pair of high-end loudspeakers.

It's those intricate details that causes me to explore the limits of a home loudspeaker or personal listening system. Mind everyone reading this article, I am using high-end reference solid-state gear to review the Kimber Kable Axios Ag and Meze Audio STRADA combination; thus, the opinions are based on the experiences of utilizing Benchmark Media's HPA4 and the Esoteric K01XD <-> G1X front-end components. All of these wares elevate the already excellent sounding duo to another realm of reality. "Malletoba Spank" has solidified that high-mark standing with an awesome performance.

Dream of an Opera - SACD - This is one album I have been waiting patiently to be released in either DSD or SACD. The CD and LP (both 33.3 and 45rpm) already have a sonic experience that is organically live, mesmerizing, and captivating. The multitude of frequencies are echoed throughout the soundstage in a way that could be described as wonderfully captured and mastered for all to enjoy. The SACD takes this experience up a few levels, especially when experiencing this performance through the Kimber Kable Axios Ag and Meze Audio STRADA paring.

The sweetness of the sound is both refined and powerful in a single statement. The midrange layering of the Erhu is refined by the Kimber Axios Ag cable and reproduced accurately and musically through the 50mm beryllium and carbon-fiber W-dome drivers. Two-minutes into the second track, the big-drum's initial strike carries the power and weight through the STRADA while the echo (sonic decay) carries further into the soundstage. Those are attributes that are usually achieved by a well mastered recording and gear that's capable of reproducing those notes, tones, and timbre.

I know these headphones are sonically magnificent, but it's the synergy between the Axios Ag and STRADA that makes all of these thoughts and opinions possible. Track Four further highlights the spatial imaging and soundstage presence of the Axios Ag and STRADA duo. I know this headphone is sonically magnificent, but it's the synergy between the Axios Ag and STRADA that makes all of these thoughts and opinions possible. It's the refinement of the notes, tones, timbre, and soundstage that showcases the capabilities of the cable and headphone combination.

"Spanish Harlem" from the album Retrospective by Rebecca Pidgeon, 24/96 FLAC - An oldie, but still relevant in the world of high-end audio. The Meze STRADA sounds quite good as it's reproducing every note, nuance, tone, and timbre of the instruments and Pidgeon's voice. The refinement of this recording is further elucidated by utilizing the Kimber Axios Ag over the stock wire. Pidgeon's voice has a natural sibilance that is brought out organically by the Axios Ag and STRADA duo in a way that I thought could only be heard through high-end electrostatic headphones and reference high-end loudspeaker systems. The spatial imaging of this recording can be heard through the cable and headphones combination highlighting the resolving nature of both the recording and the source/drive gear.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Kimber Axios Ag is a very expensive cable for good reason. The ability to resolve intrinsic and intricate details throughout the frequency range and bandwidth while elevating its sonic refinement is simply awesome. The Meze Audio STRADA is an excellent sounding closed-back dynamic driver headphone that behaves more like the brand's higher-end offerings featuring the Rinaro Isodynamic planar. Priced around $900, the STRADA is more accessible than the old LIRIC and yet I still desire the latter as much as the former. There is more air and bandwidth with the LIRIC than the STRADA, but if a person has never experienced the Rinaro Isodynamic driver headphones, then the closed-back dynamic driver design is perfectly fine.

The combined pairing of Kimber Kable Axios Ag and Meze Audio STRADA delivered many levels of refinement in bandwidth, response, treble energy, midrange definition, low-frequency support/extension, and soundstage presence. It's like hearing a pair of reference loudspeakers in a space that's no larger than a small desktop in an office. I would recommend this combination to anyone who is willing to have a reference personal listening rig without investing a kings' ransom. I have included links to the cable and headphones for information and purchasing.

The final chapter of this wonderful journey that is the Meze Audio STRADA experience will explore the past, present, and future of their closed-back headphone series.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Kimber Kable Axios Ag -> LINK

Meze Audio STRADA -> LINK

Benchmark Media HPA4 -> LINK

The Audeze Maxwell - A Wireless Audiophile Gaming Headphone

2026-07-08T02:58:43.689+02:00

I have owned the Audeze Maxwell for two years and am finally ready to review it. I received my unit during one of the Los Angeles Orange County Audio Society events and have used it on and off leading up to this moment. This is one great sounding wireless planar headphone.

I have enjoyed many great products from Audeze such as the LCD-5, LCD-24, CRBN, EL-8, Euclid, i3, and now the Maxwell audiophile gaming headset. I still have the aforementioned headphones and in-ears, but this is my first wireless planar driver model. It's a closed-back design with many features typical in a gaming headset such as integrated microphone array with a boom mic accessory (included) for better voice communication. Ambient noise attenuation is pretty good but not besting the Meze LIRIC or the old Sennheiser HD280 Pro.

Here is the Audeze Maxwell audiophile gaming headset.

It features a simple design with a solid headband and adjustable leather strap (I wish that piece would have a self-adjusting spring-loaded adjustment over the current design). The ear cushions could use a little more depth because the driver grill comes in contact with my ears. It doesn't immediately lead to discomfort, but I am reminded of the presence of headphones on my head, thus shortening my sessions to a few hours a day. I am replacing the cushions before I add any more content to this article.

The Wicked Cushions upgrade improved the comfort by ensuring my ear's cartilage no longer comes in contact with the driver grill. It features a thicker cushion made with a material that offers a cooling effect that enhances the overall feeling while maintaining the ambient isolation.

Some observations from a Maxwell owner and editor.

Holst: The Planets, Buzz Brass, FLAC 24/96 - Listening to the Buzz Brass' recording of Gustav Holst: The Planets (featuring Mélanie Barney on organ) is quite a rewarding experience with the Audeze Maxwell. The interplay between the brass ensemble and organ made for a cohesive performance. The five-member Buzz Brass' instrument complement consists of trumpets, piccolo trumpet, flugelhorn, horn, trombone, euphonium and bass trombone. The deep bass notes and supportive melodies are provided by the organ and envelops the sound field. The low bass notes are fully present, reproduced without bloat or exaggeration. The Buzz Brass' performance is superbly recorded and reproduced by the Audeze Maxwell. The sound of the organ fills Montreal's Saint-Viateur d'Outremont church. The Maxwell clearly presents Buzz Brass across the front of the soundstage with the organ filling the remaining reverberant spaces. An outstanding performance delivered by a wireless headphone.

Great Film Fantasies, Erich Kunzel/C. P. O., DSD64 - Telarc has done a great job recording this entertaining collection of songs from Star Wars, Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings. Orchestral dynamics are very well reproduced by the Audeze Maxwell. The Telarc bass drum has impacts without excessive emphasis. The harp, played on a lot of the selections, is clear and present in the left channel. A beautiful example is a selection from Star Wars, Yoda's Theme. The massed cellos just sing the signature melody. Woodwind accents lead up to a flute solo restating the theme. Strings quietly reappear to calmly and peacefully close out the song. All the members of the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra are clearly reproduced by the Maxwell. The orchestra is presented within a good hall perspective. When a chorus is employed, it is spread across the sound field above and behind the orchestra. The Audeze Maxwell presents a thoroughly engaging performance by Erich Kunzel and company.

The Wonderful Sounds of Female Vocals, Analogue Productions, DSD64 -

This collection of songs is a must have for everyone that appreciates or just enjoys female vocal performance. The entire collection is delightful from the first track to the last. Utilizing a DAP that transmits LDAC codec signals to the Maxwell headphone, the music was thoroughly enjoyable. The soundstage was presented with width, depth and space around the performers. When the song had reverb, the trailing sounds (vocals, instruments) echoed into the empty spaces as intended. Since this is a compilation, each song has its own sound perspective. In this collection, the selected songs are all of the highest quality available. The Maxwell delivered these recordings with all the details and emotions intact; pretty impressive performance for a "gaming" headphone.

WOW. My Editor is contributing to this review.

Although it required some time to review the Audeze Maxwell (PC, XBox version), being late is better than never I suppose. My approach to reviewing this headphone is through the USB wireless dongle, which is included in the package. I rarely utilized this Audeze product as a Bluetooth headset; thus, I won't have any practical experience in this mode of operation.

The Audeze Maxwell deserves some much-needed attention amongst audiophiles. The gaming side is not my field of expertise as I don't participate in MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing gaming) events, so the headset microphone wasn't utilized. The Wicked Cushions cooling gel version of the replacement pads improve the bass dynamics without suppressing the rest of the frequency range. The added benefit of the cooling gel is perfect for my elevated body temps.

GENERAL LISTENING SUCH AS SHOWS, MOVIES, ETC...

The Audeze Maxwell is my first and only wireless planar magnetic headphone. It's a balanced experience with the brand's sonic signature on full display (from an audio standpoint). Detailed layering in the midrange with deep extension support in the low-frequencies and airy treble energy ensure this headphone's continuous enjoyment. The Wicked Cushions upgrade ensured long-term listening comfort by preventing the driver grills from touching my ear lobes. Imagine my surprise that the Maxwell's engaging sonic nature is similar to the LCD-5 with a slight hint of warmth due to the comfort upgrades. The soundstage is exceptionally wide in all three dimensions.

Focusing on the gaming aspect, the Audeze Maxwell performs well when paired with the integrated license of Dolby Atmos for Headphones (tested on Windows). This added tech ensures when projectiles fly in the world of Borderlands 3, they fly true (metaphorically). The USB dongle sends clean digital signals wirelessly to the Maxwell headset, which is technically bidirectional in design. Now I can engage in multiplayer gaming without attaching a second device to handle voice communications over the network. There are other games I can reference; however, I mainly play Borderlands 3 in an attempt to score higher loot and class rankings.

Borderlands 3 is a feature rich gaming experience with plenty of content to keep seasoned gamers entertained for hours on end. The Audeze Maxwell delivers an immersive surround-sound performance similar to having a Dolby Atmos system (X-Box version only). This feature has been tested on my Windows 11 system, where all my games and other media reside. It is also where the Dolby Access application is installed, providing the ability to fine tune the virtual surround-sound capabilities of the Maxwell.

Using default settings, the projectile impacts and effects are quite realistic in direction and origin. NPCs (nonplayer characters) moving to and from the main character is unbelievably accurate and comical in nature. The visuals comprise 1/3 of the experience while the audio effects are the remaining 2/3's and is beautifully rendered through the closed-back planar magnetic drivers of the Audeze Maxwell. While utilizing Dolby Atmos for Headphones may contribute to the listening experience, it wasn't necessary as the Audeze wireless headphones have proven to deliver the surround sound effects on its own.

THE WICKED CUSHIONS UPGRADE

I have a single criticism about the Maxwell wireless gaming planar headphones: the shallow ear cushions. The stock cushions have a decent fitment, but it causes some discomfort due to driver grills making contact with the upper part of my ears. The Wicked Cushion upgrade improved the comfort by reducing that sensation. It features a thicker cushion made with a material that offers a cooling effect that enhances the overall feeling while maintaining the ambient isolation. That should provide the reader with ample understanding of my issue with these headphones. The Wicked Cushions Freezing Gel ear pads; my tortured ears can now rest and enjoy the Audeze Maxwell to its fullest potential.

HOW DOES IT SOUND?

The Audeze Maxwell is another product of the great collective efforts of Dr. C and his team. Audeze's sonic signature combined with epic three-dimensional details are retained with much-needed treble energy to provide some form of airiness that wasn't present with the stock ear cushions. The WC Freezing Gel upgrades ensure excellent comfort and better dynamics without diminishing Audeze's sonic signature.

Continuing that train of thought, the Audeze Maxwell's performance is truly mesmerizing. There are details in the many albums I have listened where other brands in the same category didn't reveal. The closed-back design of these planar magnetic headphones provides the necessary isolation to hear complex intrinsic details in the audio signal while remaining capable of delivering the loudspeaker soundstage effect. The combination of increased comfort with the WC Freezing Gel and the Maxwell's design equates to a reference audiophile wireless gaming headphone.

NOW DOWN TO THE CRITICAL LISTENING SECTION

This is an Audeze product.

I am an audiophile.

Time to focus on the two-channel audio performance of the Audeze Maxwell gaming headphone.

The equipment consists of the Audirvana Studio on Windows 11 computer -> Audeze Maxwell USB Dongle -> Audeze Maxwell headphones.

Malletoba Spank, Ellington Jazz Party - FLAC 16/44.1 - The soundstage is expansive in depth, height, and width. I am quite surprised how well balanced the sonic signature is with the Audeze Maxwell utilizing the dedicated USB wireless connection. It's better than I expected. The crystal-clear highs, the multi-layered midrange, and the supportive lows breathe life into this well mastered recording. The Maxwell's planar magnetic driver and integrated amplification deliver a performance worthy of the Audeze brand.

Detail retrieval and dynamics are both quick and balanced. The instruments are clear and complement each other on this cut of Ellington's Jazz Party. It's a musical masterpiece that's realized through the Audeze Maxwell headphone.

Final Symphony - Music from Final Fantasy - 24/96 FLAC - Audeze's gaming headphone is a true audiophile's delight. Music from the legendary composer (Nobuo Uematsu) of the Final Fantasy gaming series, arranged for the London Symphony Orchestra is a dream come true. The Maxwell's planar drivers are simply amazing. Many of the layered qualities of Audeze's signature sound are wonderfully rendered. Every track highlights many strengths and few faults with the Maxwell closed-back planar headphones.

The details in the strings complement the entire orchestra similar to how life showcases many of its beautiful qualities while being brutally honest. The Maxwell's planar drivers don't miss a single beat or pulse of whatever is being transmitted. All of this is accomplished utilizing the dedicated USB wireless dongle interface; the sonic expression of this combination yields the highest fidelity and musicality without loss and hesitation.

I am awed by the sonic performance and quality of the Audeze Maxwell.

One last album...

"Retrospective" by Rebecca Pidgeon - FLAC 24/96 - The awe-inspiring performance carries over with this album. Pidgeon's voice has always elicited thoughts of elegance and seduction; a feeling in relation to how she presents herself in music. It's engaging and mesmerizing to hear her recordings through the Audeze Maxwell's planar drivers. Every note is rendered beautifully with an expansive soundstage despite being a closed-back design. There's a considerable amount of openness with Pidgeon's recordings that is showcased by Audeze's gaming audiophile headphone.

The midrange reproduction is by far the most engaging and seductive trait of Audeze headphones. The Maxwell reproduces Pidgeon's voice with accuracy and musicality, which is the sonic signature of the brand. Her voice has a musical and passionate energy that's difficult to reproduce at the current price point ($350). It's an excellent testament to the engineering and tuning of these planar magnetic drivers combined with the closed-back design.

FINAL THOUGHTS

It took a considerable amount of time to review these headphones mainly due to both my work schedule and the enjoyment I received from these planar closed backs. I find these types of headphones to be the most interesting because of the way companies tune the housings. Reproducing an open-air sound is difficult to achieve utilizing the closed type housing and Audeze created this effect quite nicely. When it comes to gaming, the Maxwell's performed excellently especially with the Dolby Atmos for Headphones activated. The expansive soundstage is one of the biggest draws of the Audeze Maxwell given the closed-back housing design.

Turn-off the Dolby Atmos feature, and the Maxwell's come alive with its own tuning and expression. There's more to the audio signal than meets the ear, especially during long FPS (first person shooter) gaming sessions, where projectiles are flying around the protagonist. A follow-up review of this headphone is coming as I am receiving an updated version of the WC Cooling ear cushions, which are a bit thicker than the ones currently installed.

Some Good Food for Thought

Audeze Maxwell -> LINK

Audirvana Studio -> LINK

Meze Audio STRADA: An Uncompromising Reference Closed-Back Headphone

2026-04-30T05:30:15.089+02:00

Meze Audio is one of a few favored brands in my permanent collection of audio wares (LINK). It's a combination of refined audio reproduction and an uncompromising level of engineering perfection and aesthetics. Their latest offering is a closed-back headphone utilizing the dynamic driver from their 109 PRO.

Behold!

The Meze Audio STRADA

It's a beautifully made headphone utilizing the 2nd generation LIRIC's construction. The uncompromising engineering and use of premium materials elevates this headphone to another level of aesthetic excellence. The STRADA has a similar level of comfort as my 1st generation LIRIC with one advantage, it's lighter, weighing in at 330-grams. It's a featherweight compared to Meze/Rinaro's Isodynamic counterparts. The clamping force is equal to the OG LIRIC. It's just perfect.

GENERAL LISTENING IMPRESSIONS

The STRADA is a refinement of both the LIRIC and the 109 Pro models. The soundstage or listening field is larger than the OG LIRIC yet more intimate than the 109 Pro. There's increased accuracy with music and general audio performances that caught me by surprise. There's sweetness to the midrange frequencies that differs from the Meze 109 Pro. This could be due to the closed-back configuration of the STRADA. Both models utilize the beryllium torus, carbon-fiber cellulose W-dome driver.

The soundstage of the Meze Audio STRADA is quite remarkable. It's as expansive and dimensional as the first and second generation LIRIC. I state this observation because most closed-back headphones don't have the breadth and depth this dynamic driver possesses.

NOW FOR THE CRITICAL LISTENING DETAILS

Equipment

- Audirvana Studio 3.0.0 via Apple Macbook Pro 15.4" with MacOS Ventura -> AudioQuest Pearl USB-A-to-C digital interconnect -> Fiio K11-R2R -> Meze Audio STRADA.

NOTES: No cable upgrades will be utilized to formulate the thoughts and opinions of this honest to goodness review of the Meze Audio STRADA. Sincere thanks to the fine people of Meze Audio for providing this lovely headphone for review.

Here we g0.

The Burn-in

Most of the audio wares I acquire undergo a 150-300-hour continuous burn-in process to ensure audio stability. I use the included hardware unless I find the sound to be unfavorable after the half-way point of the break-in period. For the Meze Audio STRADA, I will be utilizing the included cables as the sound is quite good. A second chapter will be added to showcase how the sound could possibly be improved.

The initial listening impressions are good with clearly defined details and dynamics. There's a slight treble elevation, but it doesn't subtract from the overall sonic experience. I wouldn't label the STRADA as a closed-back 109 Pro, but a sonic twin with a twist. The imaging of instruments and vocals are far more precise while still being airy in its overall presentation. If the headphone sounds this good before burn-in, I can't wait to hear it when it crosses the 300-hour mark into the settling phase (my own definition of when the break-in is complete).

Well, the 300-hour mark has passed...

It took some time, but here we are. The drivers are settled and ready for some serious listening. Initially, the Meze STRADA sounded sharp with a recessed midrange and not subtle bump in the lows. After more than 300+ hours of continuous playback, there's considerable refinement in every part of the frequency range. The lumps in the treble, mids, and lows are gone; especially the transition from the midrange-to-low frequencies. There's still an elevation in the bass, but it's nuanced and complements the mids instead of clumping everything together in isolated blocks. It's smoother with a clean roll into the deepest of extensions, both high and low.

Gaming with the STRADA has become an audio adventure with projectiles flying through (sonically) with pinpoint accuracy. In Borderlands 3, the ambient environmental sounds, solid bullet impacts and explosions showcase the capabilities of the 50mm Beryllium torus driver closed-back headphones. Clarity, transparency, and accurate imaging are ideal traits for gaming, which the Meze Audio STRADA possesses. This is especially true with the game "Batman: Arkham Knight" where the soundtrack, environmental sounds and effects are rendered with eerie precision. It's shaping up to be a good sounding headphone for gamers.

Time for some serious listening...

"Malletoba Spank" from Duke Ellington's Jazz Party - FLAC 16/44.1 - The first cut of this album is my go-to, testing imaging and instrument placement throughout the soundstage. The Meze Audio STRADA delivers pinpoint precision imaging without any subtractions to the sonic character. It's very interesting how this standard CD-quality track sounds through a headphone with a wide frequency range and warm tuning. The clarity and transparency of the soundstage is unbelievably realistic.

"Malletoba Spank" highlights the spacious dynamics, depth, and imaging capabilities of the Meze Audio STRADA. The reproduction of instruments and their placement are pinpoint accurate in the soundstage. The leather housed LIRIC isn't as focused as this dynamic headphone. It's refreshing to have a closed-back design with an open-air sound while isolating environmental noise. As the track continues to the end, there isn't any hint of frequency loss.

"Vash the Stampede" from TRIGUN Stampede Soundtrack - FLAC 24/44.1 - I listen to a lot of soundtracks. This recording caught my attention featuring a wide range of genres of music such as electronic, jazz, and classical-jazz fusion. The imaging of this two-part album is simply amazing. It's quite spacious, which I believe is one of the attributes Meze Audio was aiming for when utilizing the LIRIC-II's housing. The orchestration of this track combined with rock and jazz sections provides a sense of epic presentation of the protagonist, "Vash the Stampede". Sonically, everything meshes together to form a sound signature that resembles the Isodynamic line rather than the 109/105-series.

The STRADA is winning me over with the way it performs. The bass supports both the mids and highs while delivering depth that presents this track well. I want this headphone in my permanent collection.

"Spanish Harlem" from the album Retrospective by Rebecca Pidgeon - FLAC 24/96 - Audiophiles are creatures of habit and utilizing this selection is no exception. There's a fine balance of frequencies where the bass-to-mids are reproduced with a touch of warmth and clarity thanks to the elevated treble energies. The high-frequency elevation is just right with a smooth finish that complements and completes the wonderful presentation of Rebecca Pidgeon's voice and instruments. Her voice is directly in front of me with the double-bass slightly left and behind her; the other instruments such as the piano echo is beautifully reproduced throughout the studio space. I think I found my new neutral, closed-back dynamic driver reference headphone.

"Take Five" from Dave Brubeck's Time Out album - Reissue ISO DSD64 from Sony Music Entertainment - I don't know how this track was recorded, but this is my go-to version when it comes to Dave Brubeck's masterpiece. The SME version was released in Hong Kong in 2000 and showcases the imaging accuracy of the STRADA's beryllium torus W-dome carbon-fiber driver. The spaciousness is reproduced without a hint of signal compression. The studio space is rendered clearly with an airiness that matches my other Meze headphone, the ELITE.

The STRADA sounds well balanced with this recording. About 2:27 into the track, the drums and cymbals reverberate throughout the studio, which is reproduced both accurately and musically. It's another demonstration of the pursuit of audio excellence from a company that aims to deliver a passionate performance through a proven formula.

Questions and Answers

Is the STRADA really that good?

Yes. It also depends on listening preferences and audio wares.

Were your observations based on the included cable?

Yes. The stock cables included with the STRADA mesh well with both the audio performance and aesthetics.

Should I get one?

That's a loaded question. The simple answer is YES! I love the sound of the STRADA.

CONCLUSION

The Meze Audio STRADA is an uncompromising reference closed-back dynamic headphone. The aesthetics is one of the defining characteristics of the brand. The construction quality and elegance are, bar-none, the leading benchmarks of the personal listening audio industry. It's a balanced sounding headphone with an airy, transparent, resolving, and musical tuning that lines up with their Isodynamic line. I wouldn't go as far as to say it sounds like a 109-Pro, however, the STRADA sounds closer to the original LIRIC and the ELITE.

Part-2 of the Meze Audio STRADA will utilize my office desktop rig featuring reference class gear such as the Esoteric K01XD and G1x along with the Benchmark HPA4 as the driver. I will use my Audirvana Studio/Apple Macbook Pro to handle all-things-digital playback. No tubes will be harmed in that chapter of the review. My thoughts on the matter will be featured in the next article.

Some Good Food for Thought

Why wait for Part-2; here it is...

The Meze Audio STRADA (Romanian word for Street) is a must have closed-back headphone for the serious personal listening audiophile. Here are my thoughts and opinions about this strong contender in a sea of great sounding and elegantly executed head cans. Here we go...

CHANGE IN EQUIPMENT

- Audirvana Studio 3.0.0 with an Apple Macbook Pro 16" and an externally connected 4TB SSD <-> Qobuz via Audirvana connected streaming service -> UIT Audio PMP active USB digital interconnect -> Esoteric K01XD <-> Esoteric G1X MC -> Benchmark HPA4 connected via Cardas Golden Reference XLR balanced 2.0m interconnect -> Meze Audio STRADA utilizing Lavricables Master Line Silver 2.0m terminated 4.4mm Pentacon balanced.

NOTES: no generalized listening. Just focusing on the album listening aspect of these spectacular sounding and aesthetically pleasing headphones. Attempted to utilize the stock cable in this section, however, the results weren't as expressive. Utilizing the Lavricables Master Line Silver was the best match in both sonic performance and fitment.

CRITICAL LISTENING PART TWO

Returning to Ellington's Jazz Party album, track 1 "Malletoba Spank", there's a refreshing clarity to the piece that's reproduced elegantly by the beryllium torus, carbon-fiber cellulose W-dome driver. It's smooth throughout the frequency range with most of those peaks tamed. The airiness of the recording is captured and reproduced in a way that sounds quite realistic. Although the digital release is only CD-quality, the Meze Audio STRADA delivers details, textures, and bass in a balanced, nuanced way. The combination of Lavricables and the STRADA deliver a performance that's rich with details that weren't apparent with the stock cable.

Cables make a nuanced difference, especially when using Lavricables (I endorse this brand as they offer the benefits of silver conductors without sharpening the treble range - based on my system configuration).

"Schindler's List" by John Williams - FLAC 16/44.1 - The Meze Audio STRADA pulls off a masterful performance with the same descriptive details mentioned in previous paragraphs adding the lush and warm details of the orchestra and chorus. The soundstage is quite expansive with excellent instrument imaging and the chorus echoing throughout the recording studio. After the second track "Jewish Town (Krakow Ghetto, Winter 41')", the performance brought me to tears as the violin soloist Itzhak Perlman and orchestra reproduced the emotions depicted in the film (required viewing in HS).

I am not a technical specifications type of person so I can't comment on whether the sonic signature of the Meze STRADA is V-shaped or something else. What I can say is the Lavricables MLS tightened the driver's frequency response where there aren't any discernible deficits with this wonderfully mastered recording. "Schindler's List" is a beautifully written, recorded, and mastered performance of emotions reproduced musically by the Meze Audio STRADA.

"Rutter: Requiem; Five Anthems" focusing on Rutter: Requiem movements by John Rutter - conducted by Timothy Seelig: The Turtle Creek Chorale and the Women's Chorus of Dallas. - Reference Recordings HDCD - As indicated in the equipment list in this section of the article, the Esoteric K01XD serves to conduct the playback of optical media. The soft opening of the organ, orchestra and chorus is wonderfully presented by the STRADA's dynamic drivers. Focusing on the third movement/cut of Requiem, "Pie Jesu", the cello, oboe, and flute opening leading the soprano, and then organ, harp, and chorus are both powerful and soulful. The STRADA reproduced every ounce of emotional energy, which moved me toward the direction of purchasing this headphone at the end of my review cycle.

Returning to "Vash the Stampede" track, this combination of headphone and cable (MLS) really showcases the frequency response and bandwidth of the Meze STRADA. Having seen the anime, this track epically highlights the heroic actions of the protagonist "Vash the Stampede". The attack of the drums and electric guitars are both aggressive and quick. These traits showcase the speed of the STRADA's drivers and its handling of fast and delicate transients without distortion (unless intentional on the recording).

"Star Trek: Starfleet Academy" by Jeff Russo, Qobuz 24/48 - Focusing on the first two tracks, "San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in your Hair)" John Edmund, Andrew Phillips, "Starfleet Academy: Main Titles" by Jeff Russo - Soundtrack recordings are getting better. The first track is arranged for orchestra and chorus. I like this version over other arrangements as it highlights the scene where the students of U.S.S. Athena dock in San Francisco. The STRADA reproduces the singer's passion and emotion, complementing the orchestra and chorus. It's great to hear such a sonic performance from Meze's latest closed-back (sounding very open).

Then there's the "Main Title", which showcases the frequency response of the STRADA reproducing delicate and nuanced treble details that would normally be too sharp for other dynamic headphones. There's smoothness in the treble while the mids and lows are tight and extended. The STRADA executes this piece with accuracy and musicality, nearly mirroring the original LIRIC's performance. This wasn't achieved with the included accessories; the Lavricables MLS enhances the sonic capabilities of the STRADA.

MORE Q&A

Have you tried other cable brands?

No. First off, it's expensive to get into purchasing cables for reviews. Secondly, there's much trial and error when combining headphones and cables. The Kimber Axios Ag made the STRADA a bit spicy; very treble hot and lean on the bass. The Lavricables MLS kept the frequency response balanced and easier to listen to.

Will there be a follow-up review in the near future?

Yes.

You compared the STRADA's sound to the Rinaro Isodynamic driver's version. Is it really that close?

The original LIRIC, the 2nd-gen LIRIC, and the STRADA, are present in my office, which provides a unique comparative experience. The STRADA's sound in stock form is in-between the 109 Pro and the 1st-gen LIRIC. The 2nd-gen LIRIC is in a different class category and can't be compared. Upgrading to the Lavricables MLS brought out certain qualities in the STRADA that elevates its performance closer to the 1st-gen LIRIC, hence the comparison to the Isodynamic driver.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Side-bar: I have a minor criticism that relates to the ear cushion's coupling to the housings. Due to the loose magnetic attachment mechanism, a proper seal may not be possible, which can affect the bass response. Fortunately, I managed to figure out the best placement to ensure the highest performance. Your listening experiences may vary.

Composing reviews isn't an easy task nor an inexpensive endeavor. Since I only have three-months to review the STRADA, I am on the clock in rendering my thoughts before I decide to acquire them for my collection (I have decided - I want it). This is the first time I was considered to review a newly released product from a brand that I have great respect for. Writing this review means that I love the headphone enough to consider owning one in the immediate future.

Who am I kidding. I want the STRADA added to my collection. At the end of my three-month term, I am going to acquire this wonderfully made, Meze Audio masterpiece. In order to conduct a long-term review, the headphone must stay with me longer than three-months. Like the 109 Pro, I must have the STRADA in my collection so that I can pick it up at any time and enjoy sonic heaven. So go out and hear what Meze Audio has to offer and try out the STRADA.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Featured Right ->

Meze Audio Strada with the Lavricables Master Line Silver 2.0m 4.4mm Pentacon balanced headphone cable upgrade.

Lavricables Master Line Silver

Articles for 2026

2026-01-02T05:28:00.000+01:00

The Kimber Kable Axios Ag and Meze Audio STRADA - August 10th 2026

EDITOR: The FiiO-JadeAudio JT7 - August 10th, 2026

The Audeze Maxwell - July 7th, 2026

The Meze Audio Strada - April 29th, 2026

Chapter 2: The Auribus Acoustics Sierra is a Gaming Changing Ear-Speaker

2025-10-04T10:44:00.004+02:00

The Auribus Acoustics LLC "Sierra" Open Monitor Ear-Speaker is one of the most resolving and full sounding products I have ever come cross in my many years of being an audiophile. In stock configuration, the ear-speaker reproduces full-bodied spacious audio that exceeds my reference baseline. Most headphones in my collection sound great. The Auribus Sierra sets a new benchmark in reference audiophile performance utilizing proven dynamic driver technology.

Defining the sonic character of the Sierra requires an intimate listening session complete with familiar albums and a quiet environment. The closest sound signature would be the combination of the Sennheiser HD650 and HD800S; smooth treble detail with infrasonic reproduction supporting a multi-layered midrange. Instruments and vocals are pinpoint focused. The soundstage is one of the widest, deepest, and highest I have ever experienced in a dynamic driver headphone/ear-speaker.

Simply Amazing.

Enter the Lavricables Master Line Silver.

The Lavricables Master Line Silver is a model below the flagship Grand Line Silver cable. I have been a staunch advocate of solid silver conductor cables for headphones, audio components, and interconnects due to higher conductivity and cleaner sonic character. There's more life in the audio/music reproduced through the Auribus Sierra utilizing the MLS upgrade. I have another cable that features silver conductors; however, it wasn't quite as good as the model featured in this article thus a mention only.

THE EQUIPMENT

- Shanling M8t -> Lavricables Master Line Silver terminated 4.4mm Pentacon balanced -> Auribus Acoustics Sierra Open-air monitor (I re-titled to ear-speaker).

NOTES: The Shanling M8t entered into service May 2025, and I found this digital audio player to complement the Sierra's acoustic signature. The Fiio M17 is another great fit, however, I am searching for a device that truly compliments the Auribus Acoustics Sierra open air ear-speaker. The vacuum tube output stage of the Shanling M8t brings out the body of the ear-speaker with exceptional precision and faithfulness (more about the vacuum stage in a review coming soon). The addition of the Lavricables Master Line Silver elevates this performance approaching some of the planar and electrostatic offerings in my collection. An extra burn-in was performed with the cable upgrade.

GENERAL LISTENING

Watching shows, movies, videos, and gaming through the Auribus Sierra was already quite good. The sonic synergy of the Sierra and Lavricables MLS elevates the performance matching some of the flagship cans in my collection. The soundstage is higher, wider, deeper with coherent vocal and instrumental reproduction. Pinpoint precision combined with three-dimensional imaging are two important attributes in a reference class headphone and the Auribus Sierra achieves it without noticeable compression.

It truly is without compromise as the audio synergy of the Lavricables MLS and Auribus Sierra delivers an immersive gaming experience better than some gaming headphones on the market. Using the sound effects from the game "Borderlands 3", the projectiles zipping past, (from the player's perspective), is impressive. No compression artifacts are present. The stock cable mutes these effects, which is why the Lavricables MLS was chosen for this article. Better defined treble heightens the experience where I can truly appreciate the Auribus Sierra ear-speaker's sonic energy and impact.

NOW FOR THE MUSIC SECTION

The Shanling M8t is a welcomed addition to the music source and playback collection. It represents the latest technology the marketplace has to offer at a reasonable price of $1499. It is also my first flagship portable digital audio player to feature a pair of micro-vacuum tubes in the output stage. It brings another element of performance to a DAP that is typically dominated by desktop devices. There are other players out there that utilizes vacuum tubes, however, they usually cost a small fortune and don't necessarily sound all that impressive.

During this review, I will be leaving the player in "Transistor" mode to maintain a reference sonic baseline. There will be a separate article about the Shanling M8t digital audio player so let us redirect the focus to the reference class Auribus Acoustics Sierra paired with Lavricables Master Line Silver cable.

Malletoba Spank from the album Duke Ellington's Jazz Party in FLAC 16/44.1 - This is a true test of the imaging and soundstage reproduction of the Auribus Sierra. From the first note, the sound of the percussion, cymbals, the clear tap of the high-frequency tones come through clearly without any hint of compression. The music creates a feeling that conveys a sense of beauty and delicacy that wasn't present in the first chapter -> LINK. The Sierra ear-speaker sounds simply amazing without any degradation in coherence and soundstage.

The intrinsic detail in the vibraphone/glockenspiel reverberates throughout the soundstage that is impressive beyond imagination. I already have a clear understanding, metaphorically, of the Sierra's detailed performance with this piece, but the combination of the player and cable upgrade elevates its performance to a new benchmark. The headphones sound expressive and with every note, stroke, strum, and beat. The sonic signature is enhanced with the cable changes thus I may have a new reference standard for my reviews.

Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances "Lento Assai" conducted by Eiji Oue - FLAC 24/96 - The airiness of the soundstage is astounding. Delicate treble details are very clear, highlighting the texture of the strings in the orchestra. Deep bass notes resonate throughout the hall, and the midrange is supported in concert with those same frequencies. There's a richness in the timbre and notes that sounds more like a loudspeaker system than ear-speakers.

During the last five minutes of the movement, the complexity of the piece comes together in sonic harmony. The tight impact of the percussion section combined with the strings and brass are brought to life in a balanced presentation. The Sierra sounds truly magnificent with the third movement of Symphonic Dances.

The Auribus Sierra and Lavricables MLS imparts an impression of a multi-layer sonic experience bordering on natural expression. This basically means the sound is realistic to the degree I have trouble discerning if I am wearing headphones or hearing audio from a pair of reference loudspeakers. "Lento Assai" is a complex movement with a good degree of instrument imaging throughout the soundstage. The clarity exhibited wasn't present in stock form, so the Lavricables MLS provides a welcomed performance upgrade with none of the stereotypical opinions in regard to silver conductors.

"Retrospective" by Rebecca Pidgeon - FLAC 24/96 - I continue to use this album due to the familiarity of a few tracks. The Sierra ear-speaker reproduces Pidgeon's voice beautifully without artifacts due to compression. Instruments sound alive akin to a live concert. The Sierra has a natural and full sound in stock form, which should be enough to write the rest of this sentence, however the Lavricables MLS elevates the performance to a new level. The silver conductors distinctly bring out Pidgeon's voice over the stock copper wires.

What's obvious from the first track, "Spanish Harlem" is the reproduction of the double-bass and piano delivering an airy, transparent, and warm sound that feels organic and realistic. It is like having a live concert in the comfort of my home or office. Pidgeon's voice is heavenly on this album (I know it is a compilation) especially through this combination of digital and analog hardware.

AND NOW FOR A SHORT Q&A...

The Fiio M17 was your mainstay reference portable player. Why change to the Shanling M8T? The Shanling M8T is a modern player with the AKM-4499EX DAC pair and a vacuum tube stage. It would be sonically epic to have two flagship players to conduct a detail comparison utilizing topflight headphones.

The Shanling M8T has a vacuum tube stage; why didn't you utilize it in this article? It is to maximize audio performance and provide optimum signal integrity. Although the harmonics are a touch warmer utilizing either triode or super-linear mode, I was seeking neutrality in the sonic signature and not coloration. Thus, the M8T in "Transistor" mode provides uniform signal operation.

Does the Lavricables Master Line Silver elevate the sonic expression of the Auribus Acoustics Sierra? Yes, as indicated in this article. The stock Open Heart copper cable sounds laid back compared to the Lavricables MLS upgrade. There's openness in the overall sonic profile of the Sierra ear-speaker that is further revealed with the cable upgrade.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I am adding a final chapter to this series because the Fiio M17 has been my main digital audio player for many of my reviews. I think it is fitting to add another chapter featuring the Fiio monster DAP. Lavricables is the best choice with the Auribus Acoustics Sierra not due to the price-to-performance, but it's sonic reproduction capabilities. The Auribus Sierra is an astonishing product to have the opportunity to conduct a series of reviews. I have enjoyed every moment with this headphone to the degree that I am purchasing this after this article's publication.

Stay Tuned for the next chapter.

Some Good Food for Thought

- Auribus Acoustics Sierra ($1200)

- Shanling M8T (Amazon Affiliate priced at $1499)

- Fiio M17 (Amazon Affiliate priced at $1754)

- Lavricables Master Line Silver

CHPT 3: The Meze Audio 109 PRO - The Lavricables Experience

2025-09-12T00:34:00.001+02:00

The Meze Audio 109 Pro is the ultimate expression of form and function for under $1000. It is beautifully constructed with exposed drivers protected by a copper-colored aluminum grill. The carbon cellulose dome and beryllium torus dynamic driver deliver a sonically pleasurable experience that is difficult to replicate. I feel it is the last headphone an audiophile should ever purchase. Sadly, I love this hobby and can't settle for just one headphone.

BRING IN THE LAVRICABLES MASTER LINE SILVER

The latest Lavricables addition to my growing collection of cables, the Master Line Silver elevates the sonic performance of every headphone paired with it. Konstantin (the founder of Lavricables) was kind enough to send me a Master Line Silver care package containing: one 2.0m Pentacon 4.4mm balanced cable with 3.5mm terminations; one 4.4mm Pentacon female to 6.3mm TRS adapter for added flexibility; black velvet pouches with drawstrings.

For the sake of simplifying this article, the Lavricables MLS (Master Line Silver) is an elegantly constructed cable with branded plugs and a carbon Y splitter. Rhodium plated over copper plugs ensure highest signal integrity and wear endurance. It is a great addition to my collection.

THE EQUIPMENT

- Shanling M8T portable digital audio player -> Lavricables MLS 2.0m Pentacon balanced -> Meze Audio 109 Pro.

NOTES: The Shanling M8t serves to showcase the sonic flexibility of the 109 Pro. It's also to determine whether the Lavricables and Meze combo will be affected with the introduction of a vacuum tube output DAP. Chapter 4 will feature critical listening with the Fiio M17.

GENERAL LISTENING

The 109 Pro is a wonderfully seductive sounding headphone. The cables play an important role in shaping the sound to engage the listener. The stock cable is a good start. The Meze Audio PCUHD copper premium cable elevates the sonic character to a degree nearly matching the ELITE, which is the brand's flagship planar headphone. Pairing the 109 Pro with the Lavricables MLS and the experience becomes one with the listener (great sonic synergy). Delicate treble details, liquid smooth midrange, and deep, supportive bass complete the trifecta of the most seductive attributes in this meta material dynamic driver headphone.

Movies and shows that have strong layered details and solid bass impacts highlight the airiness of the treble and low-frequency support of the Meze Audio 109 Pro. The Lavricables MLS upgrade enhances those qualities of the Meze headphone while retaining its sonic signature. The upgraded cable complements the aesthetics of the 109 Pro and offers a contrast to the warm color tones of the black walnut housings and copper accents.

LISTENING WITH THESE ALBUMS

Duke Ellington's Jazz Party (16/44.1), Dream of an Opera (16/44.1), and Titanic by James Horner (24/44.1).

THE TREBLE

As observed on the albums specified, the energy in the upper frequency registers, in a word, would be "Airy". There's a delicate balance of layered, intricate details without harshness and brightness when paired with the 109 Pro and Lavricables MLS. The silver conductors and woven geometry provide copper like neutrality with a touch of clarity in a simple and elegant package. The wonderful treble energy and openness is the unique synergy of the Lavricables MLS and the Meze Audio 109 Pro.

THE MIDRANGE

The oh so sweet midrange of the 109 Pro is further enhanced with the cable upgrade. The Lavricables MLS brings out the entirety of the midrange where many of the multi-textural layering of a movement, cut, and track is reproduced smoothly. It is an astonishing feat to hear such wonderful and liquid midrange through a pair of headphones for under $1k.

On "Titanic", an album composed by James Horner, the Meze Audio 109 Pro and Lavricables MLS reproduces the intrinsic details of the vocals and instruments with a hint of sibilance in the synthesized bass. On the track, "Leaving Port", the detailed layering of the synthesizers and orchestra mesh together in sonic harmony that wasn't heard previously with the included Meze Audio PCUHD cable. From my perspective, the MLS cable is a must have with this album. Although released in standard Redbook CD Audio format, the sonic experience is quite good.

This sentiment is advanced by all of the tracks of Dream of an Opera (Chinese opera without words). "Sublime harmony" would be the expression I would use to sum up the sonic experience of the synergy of Meze and Lavricables. Every track was reproduced melodiously where I could close my eyes and experience the beauty of the orchestra playing each movement. The Meze 109 Pro handles this album very well, especially during the swell of the last two minutes of track 8, "The Great Award", where the big drum coalesces in a balanced harmonic flow with the orchestra.

THE BASS

Progressing from the liquid smooth midrange, the bass is a different beast entirely. The 109 Pro has deep reserves of low-frequency energy that could be misinterpreted as having a second driver dedicated to sub-sonic output. The Lavricables MLS further establishes the LFE (low-frequency effect) reserves by cohesively supporting the rest of the frequency range while extending deep into sub-sonic territory. The bass isn't emphasized in any negative way.

The big drum energy in the eighth track, "The Great Award", from Dream of an Opera resonates throughout the studio, complementing the orchestra in a way that could only be described as natural. It is a deep bass with primary and secondary notes that support the rest of the frequencies without any form of audible distortion and compression.

ALL FREQUENCY SECTIONS COME TOGETHER

There's something about the Meze 109 Pro and Lavricables MLS that screams, "supreme reference standard". If given a choice of my collection or this combination of wares, I would choose this combination to replace my dynamic driver headphones, without hesitation. Refocusing the article, the three albums chosen showcases many of the sonic attributes of the Meze Audio 109 Pro and the MLS elevates them to a higher level of performance.

Returning to Dream of an Opera and starting with the first track, "Dream of the Red Mansion", the opening 30-seconds highlights the layering of the instruments reproduced through those meta material drivers. The Lavricables MLS tightens key areas in the frequency response and softens the treble enough where natural sibilance can occur. As the piece continues, the openness of the studio can be perceived. The instruments' sonic energies are accurately reproduced. In Titanic, the swells of the orchestra combined with the synthesized vocals and instruments are well rounded and natural.

Ellington's Jazz Party's first track "Malletoba Spank" truly highlights the large soundstage in a way that is difficult to describe. At 16-bits and 44.1-kHz sampling rate, this standard CD-quality album (remastered version) is a great way to test the detail retrieval of the 109 Pro. Meze's PCUHD cable sounds nice with this track. The instruments have a natural sound that has enough engagement to keep things interesting; just enough though. The Lavricables MLS breathes life into this album elevating the 109 Pro, surpassing the Meze Audio planar flagship in stock form. It is a mesmerizing sonic performance.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The change in my normal digital audio player may have something to do with this article showcasing greater performance reproduction. Another chapter will be composed utilizing the Fiio M17 just to keep consistency in all of my reviews with my testing process. For now, the combination of the Meze 109 Pro and Lavricables MLS provide the best sonic experience for under $1400. The source gear is critical and using the Shanling M8t for the first time seems fair in this chapter.

The Meze Audio 109 Pro is a beautifully made headphone with the sonic attributes to match. The Lavricables Master Line Silver complements with its own understated beauty and sonically elevates the performance beyond my expectations. Chapter 4 will continue to utilize the MLS cable in two system configurations. This should provide readers detailed information on how to attain high-fidelity performance without having to resort to selling a body part.

Some Good Food for Thought

Here are some links.

Shanling M8t digital audio player

Lavricables Master Line Silver

Meze Audio 109 Pro

The Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core - The Ultimate Reference Upgrade

2025-04-02T21:32:00.001+02:00

I discovered this company during my late-night browsing of the internet searching for high-purity silver headphone cables. Lavricables has an interesting and straightforward website with simple and detailed explanations of their four model lines. Starting with models that fit the Meze LIRIC, I configured the first set of cables with both balanced and unbalanced terminations. After receiving the set and enjoying the sonic outcome, I sent an email requesting to review other models in their line.

Five months later, Konstantin of Lavricables sent an email and subsequently I received the Grand Line Silver 4-Core version. Immediately I paired the cable with the Audeze LCD-5 and it was a good fit. Additional burn-in time was required as the sound signature wasn't quite cohesive, and the soundstage was a bit constrained. After 1200+ hours of continuous operation, it was ready for prime time and thus the composition of the Audeze LCD-5 Chapter Four review -> LINK.

I have two other headphones that can benefit from the performance changes the Lavricables Grand Line has to offer. Utilizing a balanced signal connection, it offers flexibility on the headphone source side by way of 4-pin female XLR-to-6.3mm TRS or 4.4mm Pentacon balanced jack. The adapters are also sourced from Lavricables; more specifically from the Ultimate Line Silver. I may have to purchase new adapters because the Grand Line Silver has a smoother and well-rounded midrange versus a bit more clarity from the Ultimate Line version.

THE EQUIPMENT

- Meze Audio ELITE open-air isodynamic driver headphones.

- Audeze LCD-24 limited production planar magnetic headphones.

- 2017 Apple Macbook Pro 15" connected to 4TB external SSD via USB-C and Audirvana Origin -> UIT USB PMP digital interconnect -> Esoteric K01XS <-> Esoteric G2X master clock -> Cardas Golden Reference 2.0m unbalanced analog interconnects -> Benchmark HPA4 headphone amplifier -> Lavricables Grand Line Silver 2.0m provided by the manufacturer for review connected to one of the listed headphones above.

NOTES: None of my vacuum tube head amps will be utilized in this article. The reason is to establish a baseline with two headphones before and after the Lavricables Grand Line Silver upgrade. No streaming services will be employed. Just for reference, I have made purchases from Lavricables, which is why I am familiar with their products. I am mesmerized by the audio performance and revealing nature of the 5N high-purity silver conductors of the Reference and Ultimate Line. That was a few years ago and henceforth Lavricables have reduced their headphone cable upgrades to the Master and Grand Line.

ALBUMS/TRACKS: "Malletoba Spank" from Ellington's Jazz Party (16/44.1). "Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances" conducted by Eiji Oue (DSD64). "Spanish Harlem" by Rebecca Pidgeon (24/96).

THE MEZE AUDIO ELITE

Previously utilizing the Ultimate Line Silver, the ELITE had a soundstage that was wide, spacious, and musical with clear detail definition that wasn't evident with the stock cable. Then the Grand Line Silver 4-Core (GLS-4C) entered the scene, and the audio imagery expanded with detailed highs, mids, and extended lows. The picture painted, this TOTL (top of the line) product from Lavricables rounded the mids and highs while expanding the airiness of the sonic signature where I felt like I was listening to the music without headphones. The audio transparency was better than the Ultimate Line Silver (ULS). I am exceptionally thankful for Konstantin for providing the Lavricables GLS-4C. This cable upgrade brought out the best qualities of the Meze Audio ELITE isodynamic planar driver headphone.

Auditioning the first track "Malletoba Spank," the opening 10-seconds of the cut is wide, deep, and airy. The Lavricables ULS was musical and spacious while the GLS-4C adds transparency and air to those attributes. The characteristics of clarity, brightness, and dryness are typical associations with silver conductor cables. In the case of Lavricables, their geometry and engineering bring forth the sonic qualities of copper (the sound of Cardas Cable) in a 6N high-purity silver conductor. These observations are further illuminated by the Meze Audio ELITE headphone with the Lavricables series of cables. The GLS-4C is the company's flagship cable and is a perfect match with the Meze/Rinaro Isodynamic planar driver.

Listening to "Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances" in DSD64 is simply sonically sensational. Utilizing the included cable, the Meze ELITE was capable of producing harmonious sound albeit with a reduced soundstage. The ULS is the beginning of a sonic expansion. Upgrading to the GLS-4C elevates the performance to heights rivaling electrostatic systems. In "Symphonic Dances," there are clearly reproduced micro fine details that weren't apparent with the stock cable. The mids and highs are well rounded and didn't sound dry and sharp. The GLS-4C upgrade truly elevates the Meze Audio ELITE to a higher plane of performance coming close to my classic electrostatic headphone system (a system of German descent).

"Spanish Harlem" by Rebecca Pidgeon is one of the most beautiful sounding songs reproduced by the Meze ELITE and Lavricables GLS-4C. It is the most amazing sound that I have ever experienced with this headphone. I hear Pidgeon's voice in the center between the right and left channels with the instruments exceeding the boundaries of the drivers in front and beyond. These are sonic attributes that weren't present utilizing the stock cable. Lavricables has the capability of revealing the best qualities of Rinaro Isodynamic planar drivers. Voices were never the strong suit of the ELITE, however, the Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-Core brings out the best audio quality with air transparency and pinpoint imaging.

THE AUDEZE LCD-24

The Audeze LCD-24 paired with the Lavricables GLS-4C is another match made in heaven. The previous cable that was attached to this limited production planar magnetic headphone was the UIT Audio PMP configured in 6.3mm unbalanced TRS. I thought the audio and music was superb with the UIT cables, however, once the fully burned-in Lavricables was installed, the soundstage opened up with a bit more flavor in the midrange and low-frequencies. There was a wide soundstage with the UIT PMP headphone cable, however the GLS-4C was better and had crystal clear details.

In this hardware configuration, the Benchmark HPA4 with Lavricables yielded better resolving high-frequency details, tighter dynamics, and a transparent soundstage. There's more audio information with the GLS-4C than with the PMP cable. This was much more apparent when I played the first track from "Ellington's Jazz Party". The song is simply clear and amazing with subtle hints of fanfare and drama like a celebration. It is that upbeat energy of the jazz piece that engages the listener deeply into the first track. The Audeze LCD-24 sounds wonderful and transparent when paired with the Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core.

FINAL THOUGHTS

There will be more reviews with this cable serving as my reference baseline especially with the Audeze LCD-24. The Audeze LCD-5 was an ear opening experience, but the best is the limited production LCD-24. I am hoping to review the new Empyrean II from Meze Audio utilizing the Lavricables GLS-4C. For now, I hope this article will help others in choosing this manufacturer's brand of cables for their reference headphone system.

One final thought, I am working on composing an in-depth critical listening review of the GLS-4C with the Meze ELITE, Meze Empyrean (1st gen), and the Audeze LCD-24. The Audeze limited production headphone was the first new planar since my migration from mass production Chi-Fi Reference cans. It should make for some good reading.

Some Good Food for Thought

- Lavricables Grand Line Silver

- Audeze

- Meze Audio ELITE

Chapter 1: The Auribus Acoustics "Sierra" - The Ultimate Earspeaker Experience

2025-02-20T20:48:00.001+01:00

This is one headphone that should be labeled an ear speaker. More specifically, a stereo ear speaker. Allow me to explain.

Reminder: Stax refers to their headphones as earspeakers.

The Auribus Acoustics LLC "Sierra" open-air dynamic monitor.

Utilizing 3D-printing technology, this aluminum headband headphone delivers a jaw dropping performance that stuns high-end audiophiles like me. This is not an exaggeration as I was immediately surprised by the pre-production capabilities of the Sierra. Now I have the production version, and it was worth the wait. The soundstage is coherent and spacious, which is the biggest shock when paired with my source gear. The sonic performance is less "dynamic headphone" and more like strapping a pair of full-range monitors next to my ears, without the mass that implies. The closest sound signature I can equate to is my Marten Miles 5 with the EAR 890 amps driving them. Source gear is my Esoteric K01XD stack and the Townshend Allegri Reference line stage.

THE BURN-IN

I received the Auribus Acoustics LLC Sierra stereo ear-speaker at CanJam Socal 2024 and immediately took it to my office to start the burn-in with occasional listening sessions here and there. As stated in my First Impressions article, these cans sound great right out of the box, however, during critical moments after the high of a new headphone wore off, I realized the stock cable is more of an afterthought. I went to work substituting one of many Lavricables Reference Line Silver (the stock Open Heart cable is used for the burn-in - Lavricables will be featured in the next chapter) upgrades I had laying around. I started the burn-in and found the Auribus Sierra to sound substantially better with silver conductors than the included copper cable. Only time will tell.

After the first week of continuous operation, the Sierra's soundstage is more spacious with instrument and vocal cohesion that wasn't present during the initial listening phase. After 400+ hours of burn-in, I think the headphone is ready for the first chapter. In this article, I will take you on a journey of discovery with the Auribus Acoustics Sierra open-air monitor headphones. The stock copper cable will be used in this chapter because a baseline sound signature is needed before experimenting with different upgrades and mods.

THE EQUIPMENT

- 2019 Apple Macbook Pro 16" with Audirvana Origin as local music server <-> Asus ROG 4TB SSD attached for music and movie storage -> iFi Audio xDSD Gryphon via AudioQuest Pearl USB digital interconnect -> Auribus Acoustics Sierra.

NOTES: The Auribus Acoustics Sierra is a headphone that requires substantial driving power to reach its optimum sonic potential. In this first chapter, I will describe the headphone's sonic signature and what significance it plays in the high-end audiophile world. There is one caveat; the Sierra is hard to drive despite its 20-ohm impedance. The iFi xDSD Gryphon has a surprisingly large power reserve to drive the Auribus Sierra. This article will feature the included Open Heart unbalanced 3.5mm TRS cable connected to the headphones.

BEFORE THE BURN-IN RECAP

I didn't expect the Auribus Acoustics Sierra to perform like a pair of speakers (metaphorically). The soundstage is very spacious and transparent. I relabeled this headphone, "ear-speakers" because this is how the product performs. Headphones typically have an in-your head sound, however, the Auribus Sierra performs like a full-range stereo monitor placed a distance away similar to a high-end audiophile system.

This was the pre-production sample auditioned during the T.H.E. Show 2024 in Costa Mesa (T.H.E. stands for The Home Entertainment). Three months later, I received the production model SN 0040 and is a substantial improvement over the pre-production unit. The audio quality is less airy, however, there was more cohesion and coherence to the instruments and vocals. The stock cable (OE from Open Heart) is a good start in the Auribus Acoustic's future in high-end audio.

GENERAL LISTENING AFTER BURN-IN

The Auribus Acoustics Sierra stereo ear-speaker is a game changer in the world of audio. The sonic delivery is wonderfully smooth with detailed dynamics that surpass many reference-class personal listening headphones. I did say it was a game changing headphone/ear-speaker; well, it is because the designer/engineer spent considerable effort using a combination of materials to shape and tune the sonic signature. The form of the headphones is impressive while the sonics are expressive, similar to a full-range monitor loudspeaker system. I find it difficult not to continue promoting and recommending this product to both new and experienced personal listening audiophiles. (That can afford the increased price of entry. Oops!)

Movie enjoyment through the Sierra is quite good especially when utilizing Dolby Atmos for Headphones. The soundstage combined with the Atmos virtual surround sound processing provided a truly three-dimensional listening experience. The highs complement the midrange while the lows offer support to the rest of the frequency range. It's simply astonishing how well the Auribus Sierra performs when used with streaming media services (ex. Netflix). The frequency bandwidth is most likely the reason for such a pleasurable listening experience as I don't find any part of the audio reproduction offensive.

Utilizing the Sierra for gaming audio is a bit of a stretch (metaphorically speaking) due to the frequency response and tuning of the headphones. The sound is relaxed. Music and vocals hit the mark while complex and highly dynamic sounds don't quite have the impact the Meze 109 Pro or the Audeze LCD-X. The virtual surround sound imaging is very impressive; however, projectile impacts are uncharacteristically subdued. I will address this part of general listening in the second chapter when I use other cables including the recently added Kimber Kable variety.

CRITICAL LISTENING WITH THE STOCK CABLE

Auribus Acoustics partnered with Open Heart (a Chinese cable manufacturer) to produce an OEM 16-core copper cable terminated in 3.5mm TRS unbalanced stereo. The sound is simply sublime with dynamics, details, and soundstage that is fantastic. The midrange is full-bodied with tight and deep low-frequency support. The treble is just right providing the Auribus Sierra stereo ear-speakers the sensation of listening to a full-range monitor loudspeaker system. The iFi Gryphon has the necessary power reserves in unbalanced/balanced connection to drive the Auribus Sierra. The volume level range is set between 72 to 96 (-20 to -4dB) for proper audio gain enjoyment.

"Malletoba Spank" by Duke Ellington's Jazz Party 16/44.1 FLAC - This is the first cut on the Jazz Party album by Duke Ellington and tests the Auribus Sierra's imaging, dynamics, and detail retrieval. The instruments have a realistic sonic quality that is reproduced spectacularly by the Sierra. The airiness of the soundstage mirrors some of the best planar and electrostatic headphones in my collection. The Sierra ear-speakers have the frequency bandwidth to render every detail, nuance, spatial transparency, and dimensionality with extreme accuracy. Malletoba Spank entices the listener to hear this not once, but many times just to fall deeply in love with the music.

The treble energy is simultaneously smooth and excellent. The Sierra is capable of producing a wealth of audio information, and the result is breathtaking. After the tenth time experiencing this track, it is simply astonishing how resolving and musical this ear-speaker performs without listener's fatigue.

"Sunless Sea" by Mickymar Productions ALAC 16/48 - The instruments on this gaming soundtrack is well formed with proper use of synthesizers. The Auribus Acoustics Sierra ear-speakers bring life to this album with great soul and impact. Well, it doesn't actually breathe life into the album, but the sonic qualities of the cans convey the somber mood of a dystopian Victorian era. There is one track that tests the Peerless drivers to the point of distortion, especially at moderate volume levels. Track 5 "Benthic" starts off with a rolling theme and continues for about 90-seconds. Then a low-frequency synthesized bass joins the composition ending with a climatic thump.

(Did you want to comment on the depth or performance of the bass reproduction?) Yes!

I could dedicate a section just talking about the depth and quality of low-frequency reproduction. The track, "Benthic" explores the dimension, extension, and depth beyond my scope of comprehension. I have never heard 3D bass that is deep, tight, and supportive from a dynamic driver headphone. The Auribus Sierra has a bottomless well of bass extension and support where the ear-speaker envelopes my musical soul (metaphorically). Mind everyone reading here, the Sierra's bass doesn't overwhelm the rest of the music; it complements the entire frequency spectrum.

Meanwhile, listening to the rest of this album I have come to realize the Auribus Acoustics Sierra sounds really good. The resolved details and fullness of the frequency range highlight the exceptional audio quality capabilities of the Sierra. There is clarity, transparency and definition reproduced with very little distortion. I am so honored to have the opportunity to audition this headphone for a series of reviews.

"Secret Island" by Stanley Thomas Keiser, ALAC 16/44.1 - Most of my audio collection is 16/44.1-48, so bear with me choosing familiar albums to audition the Auribus Sierra ear-speakers. The expansive and spacious soundstage is the brand's standard along with the full-bodied sonic signature. The first track "Secret Island" highlights the Sierra's soundstage imaging capabilities. The frequency bandwidth and response provide the highest audio fidelity with no audible distortion. The impact of the drums and the multi-layered textural information of the saxophone and piano are unbelievably good.

The second track "House of Wild Dreams" is highly dynamic and spacious sounding; traits that are true to the sonic character of the Auribus Acoustics Sierra ear-speakers. The Peerless drivers combined with the company's meta-material tuning ensures proper handling of the frequencies without introducing distortion. Every instrument is placed in each area of the soundstage rendered by the Sierra's dynamic drivers and delivered beautifully and accurately. The sonic character entices the listener to relax and follow the music as Auribus Acoustics' intended (sonically seductive).

"Hero" performed by Faye Wong ALAC 16/48 - This is the final track on the Hero OST (Original Soundtrack) featuring Hong Kong performer Faye Wong. Her voice is nuanced, with detailed multi-layering of both vocals and instruments, creating the impression of a private performance. The Auribus Sierra's Peerless drivers reproduce every note accurately and musically. There is nothing analytical or clinical about the performance, in the staging of the instruments, synthesizers, and vocals.

"Fate" written and performed by KOKIA DSD64 - This EP was taken from one of my favorite anime Break Blade. I enjoy listening to many of KOKIA's works and to find this EP in both FLAC 16/44.1 and DSD64 was truly a treat. The deep bass extension is both impactful and supportive where it doesn't overwhelm the other attributes of the Sierra ear-speakers. The midrange is smooth, refined, detailed, and layered while the high frequencies are liquid, airy, and transparent. These are the type of qualities I seek in a loudspeaker and headphone. The Auribus Sierra satisfies the criteria that I have set forth in my collection of wares. "Fate" truly highlights the capabilities of this ear-speakers with accuracy and musicality.

THOUGHTS FOR NOW

The Auribus Acoustics Sierra ear-speaker is a true masterclass in reference audiophile performance. Sure, it is not an easy headphone/ear-speaker to drive, however, when proper amplification is applied, the audio reproduction is superb. Now ~~$899~~ (as of 2025, it is $1199) is a strong price point for a dynamic driver headphone utilizing 3D composite materials, however, there aren't that many manufacturers constructing hardware using this method. It is one of the best ways to reduce construction waste and optimize the design aspects of the headphone. The engineering is clean and elegant. I would love to see other color options to spice up the Auribus Sierra.

I recommend the Auribus Acoustics Sierra to anyone seeking the ultimate audio experience in a very cool looking package. If this article covers the basics, then the next chapter will dive deeper into critical listening aspects of this dynamic open-air ear-speaker. It is part of a series of articles where I discuss the long-term lease/ownership of a product and whether I would incorporate it into my permanent collection (I already want it).

Overall, the Auribus Acoustics Sierra dynamic open-air stereo ear-speaker performs like a world-class reference audio product. I prefer the sonic qualities of the Sierra over some of the other mainstream headphones from reputable brands. My only critical complaint about the Auribus Sierra is the relatively low sensitivity of the ear-speaker. I had to go through both portable and desktop headphone amplifiers to find the right pairings for the highest fidelity. The EAR HP4 delivered a good sonic impression, however, it couldn't reach good volume levels without distortion. The Woo Audio WA-8 also didn't reach similar volume levels without audible distortion thus was not considered (could be the age of my tubes).

In the end I stuck with a group of solid-state head amps to drive the Auribus Sierra. Particularly the Benchmark HPA4 and the iFi Audio xDSD Gryphon; both having deep power reserves to drive power hungry headphones like the one in this article. My final thoughts of the hour are both good and great. I really enjoy the sonic qualities of the Sierra paired with my solid-state DAC/Amp and Amp choices. Coupled with the source gear, the Sierra is shaping up to be another fine example of excellent design and engineering made in the USA. I will be pairing the Auribus Sierra with one of Kimber Kable's offerings to explore how much more I can get out of the stereo open-air dynamic ear-speaker.

So for now, Some Good Food for Thought.

Stay tuned for updates and subscribe for the latest articles.

LINKS

- Auribus Acoustics LLC -> LINK

- iFi Audio xDSD Gryphon -> LINK

- Benchmark HPA4 -> LINK

- Audioquest Pearl Micro USB digital interconnect - LINK

COUNTERPOINT - High-Resolution Audio; Is it Worth the Upgrade?

2025-01-03T00:13:00.180+01:00

COUNTERPOINT - JAN 2, 2025

Hi-Res, or High-Resolution audio, typically refers to music files that exceed the commonly streamed lossy compressed MP3 16/44.1 standard. The notion that Hi-Res automatically means high-quality is a misconception; the reality is far more complex. It's not merely about bits and sample rates; it's the processing of digital binary digits that ultimately determines the quality of the audio product.

To illustrate the points I intend to make, I will use a selection of albums that showcase the differences between CD and Hi-Res audio. As I am not one to rely on measurements, my observations will be based on listening sessions using headphones. These sessions will employ closed-back planar magnetic headphones from two distinct manufacturers. The goal is to ascertain whether Hi-Res audio truly holds value in the audio world or is it merely a marketing gimmick. My preliminary view is that it hinges on the recording and mastering prowess of the engineers. In my experience, most Hi-Res versions in my collection sound superior to their CD-quality counterparts. The question remains, "Is the extra space they take up on my music server justified?" My concise answer is affirmative.

Here is the equipment list.

- Fiio M17 <-> 4TB ROG External SSD via USB-C -> either the Meze Audio LIRIC or the Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2 Noire in stock cable configuration.

(Streaming) USB Audio Player PRO -> Fiio M17 -> Meze Audio LIRIC or the Dan Clark A2N in stock cable configuration.

(For comparisons) Astell & Kern SP3000 <-> 2TB Sabrent SSD via USB-C -> Meze Audio LIRIC <-> Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2 Noire.

Initial Thoughts

Writing this article is challenging due to the nuances in high-resolution audio. PCM is the prevalent digital binary signal platform for both lossless and lossy formats, whereas DSD/DXD primarily caters to audiophiles seeking the pinnacle of sound quality. Comparing these two formats is complex because they employ varied mastering and engineering techniques. However, with careful listening, music recorded and mastered in a high-resolution format can closely reflect the original master tapes.

Direct Stream Digital, or DSD, is a high-resolution audio format that stands apart. It was developed to deliver the purest audio reproduction, closely mirroring the original master tapes. This requires extensive processing both before and after mastering to meet the precise standards set by engineers, artists, and record companies. Without delving into the technicalities, a well-mastered DSD album can offer an auditory experience comparable to the original master tapes. In contrast to PCM (Pulse Code Modulation), DSD provides a more linear reproduction of music, exemplified by the clarity of cymbals and the beautiful reproduction of the saxophone in Dave Brubeck’s "Time Out."

I've encountered poorly mastered recordings, including a Pure DSD version of “Time Out” and some pieces from the Karajan collection by Deutsche Grammophon, where the instruments seem to have been audibly restored at the expense of natural ambiance. While the average listener or non-audiophile might prioritize the purity and energy of the instruments over the soundstage, audio enthusiasts like us strive to experience the full extent of the recorded/mastered album. This pursuit likely drives us to amass extensive collections of true audio masterpieces in search of the ultimate listening experience. Even though many of us have CD collections that are now seldom used due to the advent of digital streaming, these "antiques" retain their value, demonstrating that Hi-Res audio isn't always essential.

Or is it?

“Time Out” by Dave Brubeck Quartet – HDTT Pure DSD remastered 2022 vs 2012 Analogue Productions DSD release – DSD64 -> Fiio M17 – I recently purchased the 2022 remastered version of this album, influenced by a review on Positive Feedback describing it as one of the finest renditions and remasters heard by the reviewer. It was a reasonable $28.00 for six resolution versions available for download, ranging from 24/96 to DSD256.

When I listen to the Analogue Productions release from 2012 in DSD64, I can vividly remember the detailed sounds of the alto saxophone, drums, bass, and piano, their clarity, definition, soundstage, midrange textures, and airy transparency. These qualities are indicative of an excellently remastered recording. The liveliness of this recording almost equals that of the 45-rpm LP, played on the EAT Forte and Grado Aeon2, with just a hint more airiness.

Upon listening to the HDTT Pure DSD 2022 remaster, I found myself disagreeing with the Positive Feedback reviewer's evaluation of this recording. The remaster does exhibit strong midrange detail and texture, but the sense of space is lost, and the soundstage appears compressed due to a marked decrease in treble energy and a significant attenuation of the bass; this results in a recording that feels flat and lifeless. Initially suspecting my equipment, I switched to the Astell & Kern SP3000, only to be met with disappointing sound quality. While it did uncover some treble details, the midrange seemed to compress any remaining sense of space in the remaster. The bass showed a minor improvement, but it was insufficient to redeem the album.

Using the A&K SP3k, I returned to the 2012 reissue (remastered) and the melodies and energy flowed through once more. Migrating back to the Fiio M17, the 2012 reissue “Time Out” by the Dave Brubeck Quartet was the best DSD64 performance of the two albums. Detailed and carefully reproduced, the 2012 version showcases the skills of the engineer and how well the album was remastered. The cymbals and attack of the drums carefully balances the alto sax, piano, and bass beautifully. The realism of the piano harmonics echoes throughout the soundstage, which wasn’t present in the Pure DSD remaster. The alto saxophone primary and secondary tones are pure, textured, vibrant and energetic where I can almost feel the moist air exiting the bell.

Not all remastered versions sound the same. I can’t say that the HDTT Pure DSD version is a great remaster, however, it is a good way to compare two nearly identical recordings for the sake of recommendation and system playback. After experiencing the HDTT Pure DSD 2022 Remaster, I regret not sampling before purchase. I was expecting a wider soundstage and better definition of the instruments, however, the HDTT Pure DSD remaster didn't showcase anything new, but highlighted the age of the master tapes. This may be a subject of debate and will be clarified at the conclusion of this article.

One additional note in regard to the reissued 2012 DSD64. The LP and DSD have nearly the same audio signature with the exception of soundstage, which the analog reissue was better defined. The HDTT Pure DSD remaster didn’t have any of the nuance, dynamics, textural quality and soundstage that the LP featured. This is why I prefer the 2012 version over the latest iteration from HDTT.

UPDATE 2023-FEB-22

HK audio society informed me of the Asia only release of "Time Out" by SME Records. This reissue is another example of excellent remastering of a classic album. It is a different sonic experience than the 2012 Analogue Productions reissue. There is soundstage, imaging, refinement and definition while being very musical. The quality of the recording is superior to the HDTT Pure DSD release reviewed by Positive Feedback a few months back (December 2022 - it is my opinion based on observation) with crystal clear presentation of the instruments. Comparing the 2012 (AP) and 2000 (SME) reissues, the AP version has a darker background similar to an image that has been Photo Shopped to create tailored black areas around the subjects. The SME version sounds unaltered; complete with natural cross-feed between the four instrument microphones. The 2000 reissue paints a clear and complete picture of the finished album, which I surmise is the attempt that HDTT Pure DSD was aiming for. (but didn't attain)*

"Jazz Party" by Ellington - FLAC 16/44.1 <-> DSD64 -> Fiio M17 – I procured the DSD version through a site in HK. The quality of the DSD is very good; however, it is no comparison to the 45-rpm, single-sided LP. The closest comparison is the 33.3-rpm record and is the best representation of the DSD and PCM recording. A pure analog representation of this fun album is how I would describe what I am hearing through the 16/44.1 FLAC and DSD64. It is spacious, detailed, dynamic, and engaging with a soundstage that extends beyond the boundaries of what I ever thought possible in a digital remaster. This is especially true with the 16/44.1 FLAC; the air in the recording being eerily transparent in presentation. The drums echo throughout the soundstage as though it was recorded live whilst the clarity of the vibraphone was equally impressive. The 33.3-rpm LP was virtually identical to the 16/44.1 FLAC, however, when sampling the DSD64, it was slightly airier and transparent.

“Tron Legacy” Daft Punk -> 16/44.1 <-> 24/44.1 FLAC from Qobuz downloads -> Fiio M17 – This is a wonderfully well formed, composed, conducted and produced album from a great film. The synergy of orchestra and synthesizers is simply genius in the hands of the EDM duo Daft Punk. What was equally impressive was the original album, released in 16/44.1 FLAC, purchased through Qobuz-DE (DE is Deutschland or Germany) featuring orchestra and EDM synthesized notes. It is both impressive and interesting all at the same time. There is air, transparency, smoothness, dynamics, detailed textures and emotional energy; the music composed/conducted describe each of the pivotal moments in the movie. It is a great sounding album in 16-bits and 44.1-kHz sampling rate; until I heard the extended version.

The extended version was mastered in 24-bits and 44.1-kHz. There is more energy, depth, smoothness, etc., that was seemingly attenuated in the 16-bit version. In a blind listening test, I was able to hear differences between the two albums with resolving spatial imaging in the 24/44.1 version. The refinement of details in the frequencies presented is proof that bit-depth is the primary factor of high-resolution audio with the sampling rate secondary. The frequency sampling of 44.1-kHz continues to provide the range where the soundstage, imaging, instruments and energy are in harmony.

Listening to the track "Finale" showcases the differences between the 16 and 24-bit depths' dynamic range. Hearing first the 16-bit version, the horns and strings echo throughout the concert hall quite melodiously. As I listened carefully, the breath taken in the horn section highlights the musical notes complementing the strings and eventually the synthesizers toward the crescendo of the piece. The slight brightness to mids and the treble notes are a bit sharp, however, the marriage of orchestra and EDM generates a euphoric soundtrack complimenting the brilliance of the film.

Then I heard the 24-bit version and thus solidified high-resolution's relevancy in the world of audio. The breath that a horn player takes is detailed clearly before the note is produced. The strings have texture and detail that wasn't previously heard with the 16-bit version. There was more in the extended version's recording that wasn't apparent in the original release. It is the intricate details in the notes and harmonies that separate CD-quality and Hi-Res recordings.

Some Food for Thought...

"Rhapsodies" Leopold Stokowski conducts Listz, Enesco, Smetana, Wagner - 16/44.1 <-> DSD64 -> Fiio M17 - One of my favorite albums, "Rhapsodies" test the limits of dynamics and soundstage reproduction. Using the Meze LIRIC headphone, there is a general presentation of fanfare with dynamic details clearly reproduced without a hint of frequency compression (depends on which recording). In this section, I will be discussing the DSD and the two FLAC versions of the same resolution with one being a remaster. The track that I will be focusing on is "Bedrich Smetana - Ma Vlast, Vlatava".

16/44.1 CD -> FLAC 1 - This was one of the first albums I started to extract the audio into a digital storage library and later played off a digital audio player. It sounded like the CD through my player at the time (Wadia 8) and was fantastic. Clear melodies with a hint of dynamic frequency distortion, which I believe is normal given the age of the recording and remastering techniques. This famous piece tests the limits of the mobile listening rig highlighting the mid-to-high frequency distortion during the first, second, and third crescendi. The soundstage is intimate with a slight amount of compression with complex sections in the orchestration. This could be due to the limitations of the recording at the time it was produced and mastered. It is still very enjoyable and pleasurable to sit through for its duration, though not at high-volume levels due to audible mid-to-high frequency distortion.

AIFF - Well mastered, this reissue from 2005 as part of a SACD remaster, this highly refined recording sounds better than my CD-rip. Warmer tones and wider soundstage highlights recording and mastering engineers' expertise when taking the original master tapes and producing something even better. This reissue is definitely better than my version, however, it still suffers from the same mid-to-high frequency distortion on the complex passages the full orchestra plays. This album and track shouldn't be played at high volumes with headphones. It should be played through high-dynamic range loudspeakers with ample headroom. In this instance, home speaker systems are preferable to headphones due to the nature of the album and its selections. (some would argue any "enhancement" is bad)

DSD64 - As if it couldn't get any better, the DSD is a far better listening experience. There are more intrinsic details in the music than previously heard in the other two versions including the SACD remaster. The strings have an edge without sounding edgy; smooth midrange textures and timbre far more refined than the 16/44.1 variants. DSD is a completely different digital signal transport as it uses 1-bit words instead of 16 or more bits (DSD64 = 44.1 multiplied by 64 equals 2.8MHz at 1-bit wide). The speed and calculation require processing capabilities that a standard DAC handling PCM files isn't capable of rendering. It is this math formula known as Delta Sigma that determines the way binary audio information is interpreted and processed. DSD is a modification of this formula (citing sources), which is why a different type of DAC is required to handle bit-depth and sampling rate accurately.

There is still some form of audible distortion when the full weight of the orchestra is on display, however, it isn't as apparent due to higher dynamic range of the format. As mentioned, there is more refinement in the intrinsic details of the rendering of the orchestra. The soundstage is far more expansive than the PCM recordings with a smoothness only found in analog tape and LP versions. I like this over the other two PCM versions including the SACD remastered extraction to 16/44.1.

Whew! Quite a bit of information. Here are some notes I want to share.

- DSD vs. PCM? PCM has been around for many years. It is used in electrical circuitry ranging from audio decoding to lighting arrays. Pulse Code Modulation is the method used to digitally represent sampled analog signals. It forms the basis of decoded digital audio bits converted through a DAC into an analog waveform. DSD is a proprietary formulation of the same idea developed by Sony and Phillips. It is an attempt to faithfully reproduce the original analog signal in digital form. For further information, please follow the links at the end of the article.

- Why use the Fiio M17 instead of the Astell & Kern SP3000? That is a great question and has something to do with attainability. Most well situated audio enthusiasts may desire to acquire a status symbol of reference class performance without cost being the hindrance. This represents a small fraction of audiophiles, which is why I used a digital audio player that is easier to afford and delivers a higher performance to cost metric. ~~IMO~~

- Seriously.. Why the Fiio M17? Uncompromising desktop class performance in a portable package versus a hybrid, which the A&K SP3000 provides for nearly $3800. After the most recent firmware update and player app, the M17 virtually matches the SP3k's refined performance. One other reason I used the Fiio flagship portable player is the amplification stage's capability. The SP3000 didn't have enough gain energy for some of the quieter DSD recordings especially when driving the Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2 Noire (comparative listening).

- What you are saying is Hi-Res is relevant; so how could I enjoy this on a budget? The Fiio M17 represents flagship reference performance, which commands the price of $1800. There are other options from Fiio's line as well as Astell & Kern. The SE and AK-series in A&K's lines have offerings that are much more affordable (relatively) and are excellent sounding performers.

- You used closed-back planar magnetic headphones; any other headphone types such as open-air dynamic, planar, and electrostatics used in your evaluations? No and for good reason. Closed-back designs provide a controlled listening environment, so ambient noise doesn't factor in the comparison of CD to Hi-Res quality audio albums. I was searching for the ultimate in audio reproduction, so the utilization of two of my highest fidelity closed-back planars was the right decision.

Final Thoughts leading to a Conclusion

High-resolution music (higher than 16-bits and 48-kHz) is here and does have significant relevance in music enjoyment. Properly remastered recordings in Hi-Res can be great for audio enthusiasts, however, only if it is done right. The "Dave Brubeck Quartet Time Out" album reissued by HDTT in 2022 was by far not the greatest example of a reissue done right, in my opinion. I cannot say unequivocally that the HDTT Pure DSD release matches the original recording since I have not heard the master tapes. The Analogue Productions reissue in 2012 is a great rendering of what I believe is a properly remastered version of Brubeck's Time Out. After I heard the SME Records release in SACD DSD (2000), I am a little more confident in stating this is closer to the master tapes than the HDTT render (IMO).

This is one example of the different mastering methods regarding one album. New music released in high-resolution can be spectacular if proper engineering and mastering is done. I feel new music should be recorded, engineered and mastered in either DSD and or 24-bits to capture every detail and nuance. Remastered recordings can also be great if the engineers perform the same tasks as mastering new audio files.

I believe the new and properly remastered Hi-Res offerings are excellent (especially done by Deutsche Grammophon, Decca, Yarlung - by the established recording houses). There are poorly mastered albums as indicated in this article. This could be due to a number of factors outside the control of mastering engineers. There are streaming/web store services that provide a wide range of CD-quality and high-resolution albums for a small monthly fee. Widely accepted by the audiophile community, Qobuz is one of the best services to stream and purchase albums of all genres. The ability to stream before purchasing is a feature of Qobuz that I couldn't find with other streaming companies. It is these conveniences and album access that give a fresh perspective to the world of Hi-Res audio.

With these final thoughts and opinions, I find that High-Resolution audio matters. The higher the density of 0s and 1s, the more precise the audio signal. Before inserting your comments, understand that master tapes degrade over time; extracting and reviving old recordings further accelerates the aging of the magnetic media. The high-resolution digital audio format is the future of archiving the aging analog music era. New music mastered in high-resolution formats is the future thus answering the question in the title of this article.

- Fiio M17 Portable Desktop Class Digital Audio Player -> LINK

- Qobuz USA -> www.qobuz.com

- Information in regard to PCM Audio - Click Here -> LINK

- DSD Audio Information please click here -> LINK

- Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2 Noire -> LINK

Some Good Food for Thought Everyone...

ARTICLES FOR 2025 - New Articles Posted at the top of the page.

2025-01-02T08:11:00.003+01:00

Chapter One: The Auribus Acoustics LLC "Sierra" Open Monitor - The Ultimate Ear-Speaker Experience.

Chapter Two: The Auribus Acoustics LLC "Sierra" is a Game Changing Ear-Speaker

CHPT 3: The Meze Audio 109 PRO - The Lavricables Experience

Archived Reviews

2025-01-01T20:52:00.003+01:00

Posted Reviews and Articles Archive - Sorted by Year

2025 Archived Articles Link

2024 Archived Articles Link

2023 Archived Articles Link

2022 Archived Articles Link

2021 Archived Reviews Link

2020

The Towshend Allegri+ "A Fresh Perspective"

The A&K SE200 "The Gemini DAP"

Audrivana+ for Windows 10

Audirvana in 2020

The Fiio M11 "Short Take Review"

The Fiio M9 "A Worthy Successor"

The Fiio M7 "A Great Opening Act"

2019

The Schiit Freya "It's Really Good"

The Schiit System Under 10k

The HiFiMan Arya "The Mobile Reference Planar Headphones"

The McIntosh MHA50 "Mobile Reference in the Palm of Your Hand"

Qobuz Revisited

The HiFiMan Jade-II "The Reference Electrostatic System Everyone Should Have"

The LG V30 "The Audiophile Smartphone with Full Hardware MQA"

To MQA or Not to MQA?

I am "Fulla" Schiit Review

2018

The Townshend Allegri+ "My Real World Review"

The Pioneer XDP-300R "MQA Reference DAP at a Good Price"

The Sony SRS-Z1 "The Ultimate Micro Near Field System"

The Schiit Audio Saga "My First New Preamp and it is Awesome"!

The Brainwavz B400 "A Truly Affordable Reference Audiophile IEM"

The USB Audio Player Pro "Review"

2017

The Fiio Q1-Mk2 "My Review of a Portable Reference DSD for less than $100"

The Focal Utopia "My Listening Perspective"

The Fidelia Player "Classic Reference Music Player"

The HiBy Music Player for Android OS

The HiFiMan Edition X Version 2 "A Musical Version of the HE1000-V2"

The LG V10 "A Reference Smartphone DAP that drives my Beyer T1"

Stein Music E-Pads "Short Take Review"

The Yamaha NX-U02 "An Off-Topic USB Audio Conversation"

2016

The Audeze EL-8 Open Aire Headphones "My First Planar and won't be my last"

2015

Alpha Design Labs A1 "Portable Reference DAC with Amplification"

My Sennheiser Orpheus "New Tubes Installation Listening Review"

Alpha Design Labs X1 "Portable Audiophile DAC with Apple Support"

The Sennheiser Orpheus "My Tribute to the Ultimate Reference Headphone"

2014

The Fiio X3 "Real World Listening Review"

Audirvana Plus Version 1.x Review

The Ultrasone Edition-5 "The WOW Factor Review"

The Yamaha YST-M100 and MSW10 Combination

The iBasso DX50 Short Review

BitPerfect 2.0 "The Sonic Revolution"

The Esoteric K05 "SACD Player Review Pt2"

The Esoteric K05 "SACD Player Review Pt1"

My Portable Amp Shootout

The Fiio E12 Mont Blanc "A High Powered Statement Portable Amp"

CHPT 1: The Fiio FT3 350-ohm - The Affordable Reference Headphone

2024-12-19T12:22:00.001+01:00

CHAPTER ONE: "THE BEGINNING"

Fiio is a brand that I have been following for more than ten years. Starting with their first portable digital audio player (the original X3) to the latest flagship, the M17, Fiio has created a reputation for being excellent without a high price point. Their first headphone was an ANC Bluetooth type, which was not the best sounding or comfortable. It was feature rich and served the average consumer with as much flare as a pair of Chi-Fi headphones from an obscure brand like blah, blah...

Behold! The Fiio FT3.

Fiio's first open-air dynamic driver headphones feature a 60-millimeter beryllium gasket and diamond-like carbon dome. Other attributes include (for a limited production run) a 3.0-meter Furukawa UOCC cable with interchangeable tips, two sets of cushions for different sonic tuning, an XLR male-to-female Pentacon Balanced adapter, and a 6.3mm phono adapter. The interchangeable tips are the pre-installed 3.5mm stereo unbalanced and the 4.4mm Pentacon balanced, meaning the FT3 is a complete package capable of being used virtually anywhere with the aforementioned tip terminations.

OMG OMG OMG OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Go buy it now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The words colored in Fushia is my editor. After going through twenty tracks in his playlist, he was mesmerized by the sonic character of the Fiio FT3. Less than a week after I purchased mine, he pulled the trigger. I don't disagree with his comments mainly because of the highly transparent and resolving nature of the headphone. The Fiio FT3 is a game changing audio device not because of its uniqueness, but its price point of $299. There aren't many headphones that can rival its price-to-performance ratio. The driver is one of the most interesting pieces of the audiophile puzzle that is noteworthy because of the material used in its construction.

I've got mine!!!!!!!!! What are you waiting for???????

Most dynamic headphones in this price range usually feature a 40 to 50-millimeter mylar or bio-cellulose type diaphragm. The Fiio FT3 uses exotic materials in the construction of their W-shaped 60-millimeter driver; a Beryllium-plated gasket and a diamond-like carbon dome ensures fast transient response, layered midrange, and extended low-frequency support.

The bass gets down. It shakes your cranium!!!!!!!

The low-frequency quality is very close to my EAR and Marten loudspeaker system combination. The low-frequency registers possess textured and intricately detailed layers. It enters into the sub-bass territory where it virtually sounds bottomless in its presentation. The Fiio FT3's driver mass and radiating surface area delivers all of these qualities with no discernible audio distortion. I haven't really encountered a large driver open-air headphone capable of delivering nuanced details this quickly and accurately (without sounding clinical/sterile).

Images delivered beyond your left ear, way past your right ear!!!!!

The pre-installed suede set of ear pads delivers the widest and most natural soundstage. The fenestrated protein leather cushions focus the music and instrument layering with a slight reduction of spatial imaging. Returning to the suede cups, the air, transparency, and 3-dimensional presentation are attributes normally associated with electrostatic and planar magnetic designs. The Fiio FT3 350-ohm delivers impressive performance beyond its aforementioned price point of $299. It is simply wonderful and a must have in any listener's collection.

Realistic soundstage to artificial soundscape, you are there!!!

The soundstage quality and dimensionality are contingent on ear cushion choice. To my recollection, the Fiio FT3 350-ohm with the pre-installed suede cushions matches the sonic performance of the Marten Miles 5 driven by the EAR V12 with the Esoteric K01XS as the source. You can experience reference-class personal listening at a fraction of the cost of a loudspeaker system ($299 vs my system's cost of $60k).

Rediscover your favorite music!!! My buddy heard them last week and bought a set. You should too!!!!

His name is Jason M and he purchased them five minutes after auditioning my FT3s. He was seduced by the melodies and musical reproductions of his selected albums. He went online and placed the order through Apos.audio. The rest is history.

Bringing this article back into focus; the Fiio FT3 is a world class headphone (350-ohm version) with the ability to match the performance of higher cost brands/models. No mods or additions are necessary to achieve Reference Class performance. The Fiio FT3 350-ohm is a world class headphone, Bar None!

Brings the fun back to listening. Enjoy your music once more!!

INITIAL IMPRESSIONS

None are necessary. The introductions are enough to elicit the reaction, "the most impressive headphone to reach the audiophile market in years".

Hyperbole aside, the affordable Fiio-FT3 delivers the goods and leaves money for mo' music.

BURN-IN SYSTEM COMPONENTS

- Fiio M17 portable (monstrous) digital audio player configured in desktop operation via supplied 12VDC power supply -> Fiio FT3 350-ohm version.

NOTES: I will conduct a burn-in of 300-hours +/-50 to ensure driver stability and uniformity of soundstage and sonic character. No modifications or upgrades will be introduced as this headphone has all of the necessary hardware to ensure maximum performance. The supplied Furukawa cable with exchangeable plug terminations is of the highest quality, which prompted the decision to remain stock throughout the creation of this and the next chapter.

BEFORE THE BURN-IN, HOW DOES IT SOUND?

If the introductions are any indication of how good the Fiio FT3 sounds, I will say the out-of-box experience is beyond impressive. Without any burn-in, the FT3 performs similarly to my Sennheiser HD650 and Meze ELITE with a depth and warmth that is unfathomable from a headphone under $500. Fiio has raised the benchmark on the sonic performance per price quotient with the FT3 350-ohm. If it sounds this good before the burn-in; I wonder how it would sound after reaching the settling phase?

YOU MENTIONED THE 350-OHM VERSION, DO THEY HAVE A DIFFERENT VARIANT?

Yes.

It is a 32-ohm model featuring a 60-millimeter aluminum PVD liquid crystal polymer diaphragm. The sonic performance of the 32-ohm variant caters to those seeking a warmer sound. The lower impedance model has more bass in the midrange section of its frequency response. There are noticeable sonic differences between the Reference model (350-ohm) versus the consumer version (32-ohm), however the Fiio FT3 sonic signature remains in the upper midrange frequencies. Bass is a little heavier, however, it doesn't overwhelm the rest of the audio and remains enjoyable listening for hours on end. Plus, at 32-ohms, the power demands are lower as this variant of the FT3 requires less power to perform at the same volume level as with the 350-ohm model.

As of Q2 2024, the 32-ohm variant was quietly discontinued.

300-hours LATER. THE FIIO FT3 REFERENCE IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING.

The Fiio FT3 Reference Standard headphone is one of the most astonishing pieces of audio gear that I have had the privilege of experiencing. Heck, I purchased it immediately after hearing it at CanJam Socal 2023. Its audio reproduction rivals headphones costing more than five times its price of $300. No modifications or upgrades are required for this headphone. The included accessories are all that is necessary to achieve the Reference Standard.

After Burn-in, here is the equipment used in this chapter.

- Audirvana 3.5.51 installed on Macbook Pro with 4TB SSD music storage -> UIT PMP passive USB digital interconnect -> Esoteric K01XD <-> Esoteric G2X -> Cardas Golden Reference 1.0m unbalanced interconnects -> Benchmark HPA4 -> Fiio FT3: included 3.0m Furukawa cable with the unbalanced 3.5mm and 6.3mm adapter installed.

Notes: Using reference standard gear in this review may seem like overkill, however, it is to say that the Fiio FT3 headphone is capable of redefining my personal listening collection. It will not change my system habits because I like having so many pieces of gear to continue comparing them to one another. I am curious to uncover other revealing attributes the $300 reference class headphone may have to offer against a sea of 4-digit dynamic and planar headphones in my curated collection.

This headphone still requires time to reach its fullest potential. Connected to the Esoteric K01XD and the Benchmark HPA4, the Fiio FT3 is a worthy reference class headphone rivaling many established brands such as Meze, Sennheiser, AKG, and Beyerdynamic. It just needs a little more time on this desktop system in order to assess its true sonic capabilities. Until then, here are the highlights after an additional 150-hours on this system.

DEFINITION AND DYNAMICS

The Fiio FT3 closely reproduces the audio signal's subtle details, almost on par with the venerable first-generation Beyerdynamic T1 dynamic headphones. Its 60-millimeter meta-material driver combines the speed of an electrostatic diaphragm with the heft of a dynamic type, resulting in a reference-class headphone that is bound to astonish even the most experienced audiophiles. A $300 Chinese branded headphone outperforming a once $1300 flagship German model shows how far Fiio has come with their engineering and development.

Ellington's Jazz Party is among the albums that showcase the Fiio FT3's capabilities. It offers soundstage, body, imaging, dynamics, and liveliness—traits usually found in much pricier headphones. When listening to the first track "Malletoba Spank,", the Fiio FT3's 60mm driver presents an impressively vast sound field, with instruments well-distributed across the stage. The music sounds airy with distinctly outlined instruments, exemplifying the FT3's proficiency in instrument imaging and definition.

Reproduction so good, you'll be dancing in your seat!! I know I do!!!

This next album is a testament to dynamic range. John Ottman's "Valkyrie" demonstrates the dynamic capabilities of the Fiio FT3's 350-ohm, 60mm Beryllium DLC driver. The percussion enhances the orchestra with robust attacks that resonate in the studio of its recording. The midrange swells harmonize with the bass notes, free from any audible distortion. The treble notes are crisp, imbued with a touch of warmth and clarity. This piece is free from any harsh or overly bright overtones. The low-frequency support ensures the orchestra's intentions are faithfully rendered by the Fiio FT3.

A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

While uploading parts of my cd collection to a hard drive, monitoring with the Fiio FT3, I came across a couple of tracks that stood out and caught my attention. On the Doobie Brothers album, Takin' It to the Streets, from 1976, the song "Rio" contains a plethora of instruments, recorded meticulously. Two drum kits, multiple guitars, assorted percussion, keyboards and brass complement the vocals. The entire collection of instruments that went into that recording is clearly presented by the FT3. Moving on to the 1986 Talking Heads album, True Stories, I thought the track "Papa Legba" presents a highly dynamic, abundance of instruments spread out in the soundscape. (Try following some of the individual instruments panning around the sound field.) The Fiio FT3 delivered this track with outstanding percussive impacts, clear instrumentation and closely miked vocals. It is a fun song to be sure. Both tracks exemplify the fine quality of reproduction delivered by the affordable Fiio FT3. Back to the review...

SUMMATION FOR NOW

I succeeded in persuading two experienced audio hobbyists to acquire the FT3 before the 3.0m custom Furukawa cable was phased out and replaced with possibly a less capable option. Their insights and perspectives inspire me to pen two chapters about this headphone. The Fiio FT3 offers an immersive audio experience that requires no modifications to appreciate the reproduced frequencies. The headphones' overall audio signature has a subtle warmth to it. This isn't to suggest that it's colored, but rather it's a deliberate tuning choice designed to encourage the listener to wholeheartedly enjoy the audio.

I wish to further express to the readers the excellence of these headphones, which necessitates a detailed listening chapter to highlight the strengths of the Fiio FT3. The headphones have exceeded my expectations in terms of their capabilities. It is important to mention that optimal audio quality is achieved with proper headphone amplification. In the next chapter, I will delve into the critical listening aspects of the FT3. I like this headphone unequivocally; it will reside in my permanent collection.

Please be aware that composing and finalizing this review required a significant amount of time due to my commitments beyond writing this blog. My aim is to offer thorough details while sharing my views on headphones that rival the performance of those priced over $1000. Consequently, my articles tend to be extensive and published with some delay. The Fiio FT3 sets a remarkable standard for high-fidelity, reference audiophile quality at a price point below $500.

Some Good Food for Thought

Stay Tuned for Chapter Two.

LINKS

Fiio FT3 350-ohm

Fiio M17 Portable Digital Audio Player

Esoteric K01XD

Audirvana Origin (Audirvana 3.5 is no longer available for purchase)

CHPT 4: The Audeze LCD-5, A Great Journey with the Lavricables GLS-4C

2024-12-06T02:19:00.000+01:00

The journey of the Audeze LCD-5 is nearing the end, however, the headphone adventure continues because Lavricables sent me a care package. The contents of the package redefines the sonic signature of Audeze's flagship headphone. It is Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core headphone cable upgrade, enhancing the audio fidelity of the LCD-5 to another dimension. Enough with the introductions. Here it is.

Behold! The Audeze LCD-5 and Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core terminated in 4-pin XLR balanced 2.0m length cable upgrade.

It is an aesthetically beautiful and solidly constructed cable in an included monogrammed velvet pouch. The dull gray color of the cable may seem like an afterthought, but it is in fact the color of the solid-silver conductors housed within a transparent sheath. It is the simplicity of the design that displays elegance without being over styled. It matches the understated beauty of the Audeze LCD-5. The sonic performance of the cable paired with the Audeze planar flagship is impressive.

The Burn-In

Konstantin of Lavricables provided the Grand Line Silver 4-core in exchange for a detailed and thorough review. To assist in this process, a 150-hour burn-in was conducted at the factory. Additionally, I conducted my own burn-in with 1200-hours of continuous operation using the Meze ELITE at low volume levels. Now the cable is ready to be used with the Audeze flagship planar headphone.

EQUIPMENT UTILIZED

- Audirvana 3.5.51 installed on Macbook Pro with 4TB SSD attached -> Esoteric K01XS <-> Esoteric G2X master clock generator -> Benchmark HPA4 -> Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core 2.0m terminated mini-XLR (headphones) to 4-pin XLR (source) -> Audeze LCD-5

NOTES: the Esoteric K01XS utilizes the Asahi Kasei Microdevices AKM4499EX in mono operation. There are at least two pairs of the AKM4499EX DAC chips to serve the stereo balanced/unbalanced processor stage. The Benchmark HPA4 is an excellent and neutral sounding solid-state headphone amplifier.

GENERAL LISTENING NOTES

Before settling on four albums/tracks, I spent nearly a day experiencing every detail, nuance, and texture the Audeze LCD-5 reproduced while using the Lavricables Grand Line Silver cable. The included stock cable keeps the LCD-5 balanced and neutral without being overly engaging or enticing. The Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core version maintains that balance while adding a bit of engagement, transparency and bloom to the mids and highs. The bass is tightened, extended, and slightly emphasized to complement the liquid sounding Audeze midrange.

When playing "Lutoslawski's Concerto for Orchestra - I. Intrada", the intricate midrange and treble details are fuller than utilizing the included stock copper cable. The Ultimate Line silver elevated the performance considerably (see Chapter 3 -> Link), while the Grand Line Silver refined those same exact points. The Audeze LCD-5 is truly a world class flagship planar when paired with Lavricables TOTL (top-of-the-line) silver cable. The Fiio M17's output stage ensures an achromatic audio signal to provide the broadest bandwidth to the planar driver.

The Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core heightens the experience to another realm of possibility. The Audeze LCD-5 is a very capable and neutral sounding headphone, however, it doesn't quite pop or seduce me. Lavricables truly elevates the audio experience of the Audeze LCD-5 to a level higher than what seemed possible. I have tried other cables including UIT, Kimber, and Cardas. Lavricables Grand Line Silver and the combination of gear leading to this fourth chapter seems to be where the magic is.

ROUND TWO - CRITICAL LISTENING WITH ALBUMS

"Mallatoba Spank" from Ellington's Jazz Party - 16/44.1 FLAC - The gift that keeps on giving with a clear, defined, and spacious soundstage. This is the one track that I use to discover how a headphone behaves before and after burn-in. The Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core is smoother, better defined dynamics, and spacious sounding with a subtle increase in treble energy and deep bass extension. The Audeze headphone's house sound remains with rich primary and secondary overtones complementing the enhanced definition provided by the cable upgrade. It is amazing to experience increased details that exceeds some of the other cable choices in my collection. The Lavricables GLS-4C (Grand Line Silver 4-core) delivers the best sonic experience with crystal clarity without being overly sharp and sibilant.

A great start...

"Retrospective" by Rebecca Pidgeon - 24/96 FLAC - Returning to some of my tried-and-true favorites, this album highlights the inherit sonic qualities of the Audeze LCD-5. The Lavricables GLS-4C elevates the planar driver's performance to another realm of airiness and transparency. The spatial image and coherence is better defined without sounding compressed and artificial. Granted that this album is the best of Pidgeon's works, here I will discuss track one, "Spanish Harlem" which I feel is the best cut to focus the synergy of the Lavricables GLS-4C and the Audeze LCD-5.

"Spanish Harlem" is a wonderfully composed song that is sung beautifully. Rebecca Pidgeon's voice melodiously complements the instruments and the Lavricables GLS-4C highlights the transparency, clarity, and air in the music. There are no sharp or harsh details in the playback; only the purity of the recording through the LCD-5's planar drivers. The clarity and transparency of her voice caught my attention as it enhances the detailed sonics from the instruments. The imaging was good with the LCD-5's stock cable, however, the Lavricables GLS-4C showcases Audeze's flagship planar by revealing a detailed, layered midrange and spacious soundstage without being harsh or sibilant. This is an amazing demonstration of cable and headphone paired performance.

"Pie Jesu" from the album Rutter Requiem - Five Anthems - Reference Recordings HDCD into FLAC 16/44.1 - The first time I heard this album; it was at the LA Audio Show's MBL exhibit. My wife and I were brought to tears when we heard "Pie Jesu", which then prompted my decision to purchase this album. Playing this same piece through the Audeze LCD-5 and Lavricables GLS-4C, I found the recording to be a bit quiet (it could be due to a -10dB attenuation). So, an increase in volume is required to hear every nuanced detail by the solo soprano, chorus, orchestra and organ. It is a powerful recording and resonates every fiber of my being. The Audeze LCD-5 delivers a powerful and neutral sounding statement, however, paired with the Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core, it elevates the performance to another plane of existence.

The organ envelops the listener while the soprano sings the lyrics to Pie Jesu. The orchestra and chorus complement the piece where it truly resonates in a way that is not easily described. I feel a deep emotional connection to this composition especially when heard with the pairing of the Lavricables GLS-4C and Audeze LCD-5. The only other personal listening system that would bring me to this emotional level is an electrostatic rig valued at more than $50k (18k when it was first introduced in 1994) by a German manufacturer. This is a statement pairing of a flagship planar headphone and a TOTL cable. These are my thoughts and feelings when I hear this recording through the Audeze LCD-5 paired with the Lavricables GLS-4C. It is simply astonishing.

Final Thoughts

I have always desired the Lavricables Grand Line Silver. Never dreamt that I would have the opportunity to receive a product from Lavricables for a series of reviews. I paired it with the Audeze LCD-5 because I felt this headphone could use a TOTL cable upgrade. After hearing the Audeze LCD-5 paired with the Lavricables Grand Line Silver 4-core, I can say it was a match made in heaven. It is a significant increase in frequency refinement where audio textures are full-bodied and well-rounded. The Ultimate Line Silver was better than stock, however, the Grand Line Silver 4-core is the best cable of the two to pair up with the LCD-5.

The neutrality of the Audeze LCD-5 is established, which ensures a clean and clear representation of the audio fidelity recorded. The Lavricables GLS-4C elevates this performance by emphasizing the mid-highs and treble extension while tightening the bass. Frequency compression is non-existent, and full expression of the audio is retained with subtle rounding and boosting. To elaborate, the smoothness of the midrange-to-treble transition was better than I was expecting especially when utilizing high-purity silver. Typically, generic silver headphone cables have sharp frequency tones with overly bright, clear, and somewhat brittle sounding midrange. The Lavricables GLS-4C is well-rounded with copper-like smoothness, timbre, and liquid midrange while subtly boosting clarity, air, and transparency.

The Lavricables Grand Line is the way to go if the listener is seeking a cable that brings out the best experience without an earth-shattering price (there are two versions: 4 or 8-cores). Lavricables' specialty is silver conductors, so they have extensive experience in engineering, geometry, and construction. These attributes ensure the final product will perform in exacting fashion including revealing the true qualities of the headphone, source, and power output gear. In this case, the Lavricables GLS-4C and Audeze LCD-5 synergy delivers a true reference standard in sonic performance exceeding expectations. I highly recommend the Lavricables GLS-4C with the Audeze LCD-5. It is a match made in heaven or in this case, a synergistic pairing.

Before I close out this article, there will be follow ups and a separate write up of the Lavricables GLS-4C. The article will pair this cable with the Audeze LCD-24 and the Meze Audio ELITE. Please stay tuned for updates.

Some Great Food for Thought. Here are the links.

- Audeze LCD-5 - flagship reference planar magnetic headphone

- Lavricables - Grand Line Silver - flagship reference standard cable upgrade.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS - The Auribus Acoustics Sierra

2024-10-12T17:24:00.002+02:00

It happened.

The Home Entertainment Show (T.H.E. Show) was my first experience with the Auribus Acoustics Sierra headphone and although it was a pre-production sample, I had to have it for review. A few months later, I received this production unit at the CanJam Socal 2024 event from Auribus Acoustics LLC and it is a thing of beauty.

Behold!

The Auribus Acoustics "Sierra" open-air reference headphone.

Utilizing 3D printing technology, the majority of the construction of this headphone consists of Nylon and P.E.T.G. Combined with an aluminum headband and other components, the structure is solid and tight. The Dekoni hybrid cushions ensure proper fitment for the best audio experience. The Peerless 50-mm driver features a paper cellulose cone, which surprisingly reproduces those delicate frequencies accurately with sub-bass extension deeper than many headphones in my collection.

Since hearing the Auribus Acoustics Sierra extensively the day after CanJam Socal 2024, I will purchase this headphone as soon as I am done with Chapter 1 of 3 of the article series. Before that, I will introduce this headphone to the Los Angeles Orange County Audio Society to hopefully ensure the success of the "Sierra". I never experienced the "Everest" (the company's first headphone model and completely different than the titled Sierra) at length, however, after hearing the opinions of others about the sonic signature and performance, I see potential in the latest offering from Auribus Acoustics.

I will conduct a full 300-hours of continuous burn-in, reaching settling phase before writing the series of reviews.

EQUIPMENT USED FOR THE BURN-IN

- Fiio M17 connected to DC PSU for Enhanced Over-the-Ear Gain mode -> Auribus Acoustics "Sierra" through the stock cable.

INITIAL LISTENING IMPRESSIONS BEFORE BURN-IN

From the pre-production sample to the finished product, the Sierra is a headphone that delivers an out-of-the-box performance coming close to being fully burned-in. It sounds excellent right out of the gate with one caveat. The Sierra requires significant amplification in order for the headphone to perform optimally. The Fiio M17's THX AAA 788+ balanced output is more than capable of driving the Auribus Acoustics Sierra, which is the reason for this First Impression article.

Twelve hours into the burn-in, the soundstage is very spacious with deep extensions in the sub-bass and far-reaching dimensions of treble similar to a world-class high-fidelity loudspeaker system. The closest reference system in my collection that matches the Auribus Sierra headphones is the MBL 101E mk.2 complete with matching amplification and a Townshend Allegri+ line stage. Source gear is an Esoteric K01XS with G2X master clock through the line-stage. This system is more than $90k in value and the Sierra sounds very similar while being driven from the Fiio M17. It is an impressive feat before reaching full burn-in settling phase (my term for the end of a burn-in).

It is shaping up to be a great first impression and I can't wait to tell everybody about this awesome sounding headphone.

Stay tuned for the first chapter.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Chpt 2: The Meze 109 Pro is the Headphone to Rule Them All

2024-09-27T08:35:00.001+02:00

The Meze 109 Pro is a dynamic driver headphone utilizing meta materials to bring forth a new dimension in a highly competitive environment. The beryllium torus and carbon fiber cellulose W-dome diaphragm (measured at 50-millimeters) reproduces the audio signal with fine precision. This headphone is both meticulously handcrafted and aesthetically beautiful, traits of a truly masterful presentation. One of the key beauty points is the copper-colored grill protecting the 50mm W-dome driver. It is truly magnificent.

The Meze 109 Pro is the headphone to rule them all.

Well...

Almost...

The 109 Pro is by far the best reference class dynamic driver headphone I have experienced. It excels in many areas with very few faults. This is especially true with the Meze Audio cable upgrade that was included with my review demonstrator. I intend to request the purchase of this headphone after the conclusion of this article series.

The Meze Audio 109 Pro is the dynamic driver headphone to rule them all.

EQUIPMENT USED FOR THIS ARTICLE

- Esoteric K01XD <-> Esoteric G1X <-> UIT PMP USB digital interconnect -> Audirvana Origin with 3TB of DSD, FLAC, and Hi-Res content -> Benchmark HPA4 -> Meze Audio 109 Pro with the PCUHD premium copper upgrade cable terminated in 6.3mm TRS stereo unbalanced phono jack.

NOTES: The Meze 109 Pro has an in-house sonic signature that clashed with all four of my vacuum tube head amps. The solid-state Benchmark HPA4 is the most neutral reference headphone amp in my collection, which is why it is used in this chapter. The Meze Audio PCUHD premium copper cable upgrade was included when the 109 Pro was requested for this long-term review. This cable is beautifully made and is an immediate sonic improvement over the included TPU cables.

LISTENING IMPRESSIONS TWO HOURS BEFORE CRITICAL OBSERVATIONS.

Establishing a stable listening series of observations required continuous operation of Audirvana Origin feeding a playlist of albums to warm up both the amplification stage and headphone drivers. Putting the 109 Pro on my head and around my ears, I am immediately graced with the wonderful sound and comfort of the "Ruler of Dynamic Driver Headphones". The headphone envelopes the listener with a faithful expression of analog reproduction.

After two-hours of warm up, the Esoteric and master clock generator, outputting to the Benchmark HPA4 is a perfect match with the 109 Pro. The soundstage is expansive in all directions, the melodies are engaging, warm, and reproduced in full range of the entire audible frequency spectrum. The speed of the meta material drivers matches three of my reference electrostatic systems. The accuracy of the sound is both precise and musical, which caught me by surprise given the observations in the first article.

Impressive!

BEFORE WE BEGIN, HERE ARE ADDITIONAL GENERAL LISTENING OBSERVATIONS.

The Meze Audio 109 Pro is an elegantly constructed headphone with the potential of redefining a listener's personal collection (almost). The beauty of the 109 Pro is the icing on the cake, when each housing is situated around the ears. In many of the statements and reactions from different reviewers, the 109 Pro is a headphone that surpasses expectations. It is a reference standard that redefines the world of dynamic driver headphones. There are nuanced details where audio is reproduced better than some of the top tier headphones in my collection.

Watching movies and shows from Netflix through the 109 Pro is an awesome experience. The open and transparent soundstage, 360-degree spatial imaging, and quick transient responses are attributes of the meta material dynamic driver housed in Meze Audio's latest open-air headphone. The carbon fiber cellulose W-dome beryllium torus dynamic driver is simply spectacular with an anodized copper color CNC aluminum grill. The multi-material design ensures accurate audio reproduction regardless of power since the sensitivity is higher than 100dB. To be clear, amplification can subtly change the sonic character of the headphone, however, with the Meze 109 Pro, the company's audio signature remains with subtle variations.

Using Dolby Atmos for Headphones effect doesn't change the audio signature one bit. The soundstage is far more expansive with better detail retrieval in the virtually rendered audio landscape. There's no audible distortion in the entire frequency range, which is simply magical for a sub $1k dynamic open-air headphone. Watching "The Gentlemen" with Dolby Atmos activated, the Meze 109 Pro delivered the dialog cleanly with the sound effects reproduced without compression. Gun shots, crashes, and explosions are fully formed and reproduced properly through the 109 Pro's meta-material drivers.

MOVING AWAY FROM GENERAL TO CRITICAL LISTENING

The Meze 109 Pro is now connected to the main system...

"Malletoba Spank" from Ellington's Jazz Party - 16/44.1 FLAC - This is one of the best sounding albums I have the privilege of acquiring. The Meze Audio 109 Pro handles the variety of instruments with eerie accuracy. There's a sweetness in the highs that complement the mids and lows without sharpness or brightness. The first cut has all the flair and excitement of a big band, delivered beautifully by the Meze 109 Pro. The separation of instruments is defined with clear margins and contrasting dynamic details. The high-frequency registers play smoothly and clearly without sounding artificial. There is nothing left out of the music. The first cut of this album is simply amazing through the Meze Audio 109 Pro. It is all that is required to elucidate the audiophile perfection of this headphone. The meta material drivers of the 109 Pro preserve the listening experience both accurately and musically. The efficiency of the dynamic drivers housed within those beautifully sculpted walnut enclosures is astounding with a sound that is effortless.

"Valkyrie" by John Ottman - 16/44.1 FLAC - This highly dynamic sounding album utilizes an orchestra, vocals, and synthesizers to deliver an overwhelming presence of drama and action. These emotions are conveyed through the meta material dynamic drivers of the Meze Audio 109 Pro headphones. The head amp plays a significant role in shaping the sound; however, it is the 109 Pro's design and tuning that brings life and emotion to the listener. The Meze Audio PCUHD headphone cable elevates the fidelity and musicality another level with better instrument separation and imaging (Meze Audio delivered the 109 Pro with the PCUHD cable to tie the review article together).

On the first track "They'll Remember You", the vocal range of the choir resonates with the orchestra. The energy and emotion of the first track brought me to tears as the Meze Audio 109 Pro beautifully reproduces the delicate and detailed nuances in the composition. There is a depth to the music and choir that's normally not noticeable with my Beyer T1 or AKG K812. Mind the readers that the two headphones mentioned are comparably more expensive than the 109 Pro, however, the unique beryllium torus carbon-fiber cellulose W-dome dynamic driver reproduces audio signals without compression artifacts.

The second track "Operation Valkyrie" showcases the dynamic capabilities of the 109 Pro. The meta material W-dome driver doesn't disappoint, nor does it compress the audio signal in any way, shape, or form. There's effortless reproduction of the orchestra with a slight emphasis in the mid-bass showcasing the power of the percussion section. The rich and textured qualities of the sonic signature highlight the audio reproduction capabilities. It is a testament of the engineering and tuning that defines the Meze Audio 109 Pro.

"Lutoslawski - Concerto for Orchestra" conducted by Krzysztof Urbanski - 24/48 FLAC - It is a wonderfully composed and conducted piece of music that further showcases the delicacy of the recording reproduced by the Meze Audio 109 Pro headphones. The first movement's opening "I. Intrada", the percussion section commands the performance in a way that moves me (the listener) to follow the story in the orchestration. The strings are wonderfully and delicately rendered. The dynamic range of this recording reinforces the frequencies reproduced by the 109 Pro to a level of realism as though experiencing a live performance.

As the album progresses to the third movement, "III. Passacaglia - Toccata E. Corale" starts off restrained with the string section building up to the first crescendo (those are my thoughts and descriptions). The textures and details of the strings are very well defined. The Meze 109 Pro is capable of reproducing the finest details in the instruments' primary and secondary overtones similar to how a finely tuned $100k loudspeaker system can perform. The intricate details of the orchestra is reproduced without any form of compression artifacts. The meta material drivers in the precisely tuned housings elevate the music where the listener can close their eyes and immediately imagine their private session with this orchestra.

"Pavarotti and Friends" 16/44.1 FLAC - This live performance highlights another quality the Meze Audio 109 Pro has; the ability to meta-physically transport the listener to where this was recorded (not literally, just figuratively). I haven't heard many dynamic, planar, or electrostatic headphones perform the way the Meze Audio 109 Pro does. The beryllium torus and carbon fiber cellulose drivers housed within the black walnut ear cups perform spectacular audio feats all within a $1k budget. The multi-layered detail of Luciano Pavarotti's voice recalls many high-fidelity systems costing north of $100k is simply an astounding achievement. Even though the Benchmark HPA4 delivers the amplified signal, the Meze Audio's sonic signature defines the article being written. I may choose to listen to this album through these headphones instead of many audiophile loudspeaker systems.

The music reverberates throughout the stage and space while the tenors' voices echo outward toward the audience and into my ears through the 109 Pro. Understanding that this was a live performance recording, the engineering and mastering was well executed. I don't hear the performance through the drivers. I hear the performance as though I was there during the recording. The Meze Audio 109 Pro (figuratively) transports my conscience to a point in time where this was recorded and voila! I am there listening to Pavarotti, Dalla, Sting, and Zucchero perform a few of the signature pieces and is wonderfully detailed, layered, and impressive. Although the resolution of this album isn't higher than Red Book CD-standard, the mastering ensured the purity of the performance was preserved, where the 109 Pro was more than capable of revealing the beauty of this recording. The soundstage is highly dimensional without any discernible signal compression or frequency attenuation.

It is simply spectacular.

Q & A

Why did it take this long to complete the second chapter of this article?

There is a considerable amount of time and effort in just listening and comparing different audio points in this headphone. The Meze Audio 109 Pro is resolving enough to reveal both positive and negative qualities in a recording. Once I started listening to both general audio and music through these meta material driver headphones, minutes and hours would pass without returning to the task of writing this article. Amplification plays a role in the sound of this headphone, however, due to the tuning of the 109 Pro, I found that the Meze Audio in-house sonic signature provides the foundation for the thoughts and opinions expressed in this article. It is the reason why it required this much time and effort to gather and compose the second chapter of this review.

Will there be a third chapter?

Yes. It will involve a Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver terminated in 4.4mm Pentacon balanced in a 2.0m length.

Toward the beginning of this review, you mentioned that this is the headphone to rule them all. Is that still the case?

It is the dynamic headphone to rule them all. I state this noting that our feelings about music enjoyment are purely subjective. With that thought in mind, the Meze Audio 109 Pro uses cutting edge technologies to elevate audio reproduction to the next level without compromise. This basically means audio is reproduced in its entirety to the best of the company's capabilities. The advanced meta material drivers have the ability to provide the impression of a live and private performance encased in a beautifully crafted headphone. Just give them a listen and be transported (figuratively) to another world of experiences.

Solid-state headphone amplification was used in this chapter. Would you be utilizing vacuum tube head amps in the next chapter?

No. My reasons stem from my limited selection of vacuum tube head amps. Desktop applications consist of two LDMK8-SE configured with Tung-Sol and NOS Western Electric, and an EAR HP4. I have a Woo WA8 portable micro-tube head amp for mobile applications. The problem is none of these head amps are neutral in their tuning and tend to color the sound of the Meze Audio 109 Pro. The Benchmark HPA4 is achromatic and ensures the headphones deliver their own in-house sound rather than the head amp's audio signature.

Will Chapter Three be the final article for the Meze 109 Pro?

Yes. To elaborate, it is the final chapter in a three-part series about a great sounding headphone. It will be mentioned here and there when other equipment gets reviewed because the Meze Audio 109 Pro will be part of my permanent collection of wares. In the final chapter of the series, Lavricables will be used because it is the most neutral in a group of headphone cable upgrades in my collection including Cardas, Moon-Audio, and Corpse Cable. In my experience, high-purity silver conductors have more audio bandwidth and deliver more signal information than copper. The downside is the slight coloration shift toward being neutral and purer, which can be perceived as harsh and bright. It is about equipment matching to achieve a sound that is close to my personal neutral reference.

In the first chapter, you stated there were going to be two chapters. Now there are three. Why?

Because I said so.

Final Thoughts for now...

The Meze Audio 109 Pro is a dynamic headphone that can rule the many if not all dynamic driver type. It is a headphone that has the potential to surpass many planar and electrostatic types if paired with the right amplification and source gear. The keys to Meze's success with the 109 Pro are the engineers and designers. The use of beryllium for the torus provides uniform control of the driver to ensure complex oscillations are reproduced accurately. There aren't that many companies willing to use beryllium due to its cost and difficulty manipulating for use in audio applications. Bravo to Meze Audio in engineering a driver using this material in combination with carbon fiber cellulose to create the ultimate expression of audio reproduction.

The stock cables are a good starting point with the 109 Pro, however, if an elevation of audio character and performance is desired, do purchase the PCUHD premium copper or silver-plated cable upgrade. The cables that come with the Meze Audio 109 Pro may seem like an afterthought, but the build quality is good, and the sound is about 70% of the PCUHD premium copper upgrade that I utilized for this review. If possible, purchase the PCUHD in copper or silver-plated to elevate the performance mirroring my thoughts in this review.

Having expressed this opinion, Chapter Three of this series will describe how the Meze Audio 109 Pro's sonic signature is preserved with a slight improvement in detail retrieval and soundstage imaging. The 109 Pro is an excellent sounding reference dynamic driver headphone that can easily replace many models in my collection. This thought and opinion is further solidified with the inclusion of the Lavricables Ultimate Line silver upgrade as it elevates the reproduction of the audible frequency range to a near ethereal existence. The 5N high-purity silver content of the Lavricables Ultimate Line delivers more audio information to the meta material drivers thus reproducing delicate details, nuances, and transient responses better than the PCUHD copper upgrade.

Objectively, the Meze Audio 109 Pro is a meticulously designed, engineered, and executed headphone with both aesthetics and sonic performance to match. The leather covered EVA hard case ensures the 109 Pro headphones and accessories are protected during transport. These are qualities only found in brands that don't believe in compromise and Meze Audio is one such company (based on observations). The 109 Pro faithfully delivers an authentic sonic experience that can define perceptions about personal high-fidelity audio listening. Meze Audio is a company that will deliver those experiences without compromise to both aesthetics and the audio experience.

Give them a listen at CanJam Socal 2024. The link is listed below.

Chapter One: The Headphone to Rule Them All.

The Meze Audio 109 Pro - One Headphone to Rule Them All!

2024-05-09T08:00:00.001+02:00

I have waited nearly a year for the opportunity to review the Meze Audio 109 Pro open-air headphone. Now I have it in my hands thanks to the great crew of Meze Audio during the CanJam Socal 2023 event the weekend of (Sept 30 to Oct 1st). It is an aesthetically stunning piece of audio excellence with an attention to detail and elegance surpassing some of Focal's offerings.

Visually stunning, the 109 Pros manifests Meze's aesthetic; functionality without sacrificing good looks. They can and will rock your world. For $799, it may be the only headphone you need. Of course, that isn't true, but it is a good starting point for people who really care about hearing all the details of a recorded performance.

They be jammin'. Cue Bob Marley.

Listening to recordings with vocals, (Steely Dan, Pretenders, The Eagles) the reproduction is spot-on. The 109's deliver all the details the artists intended for you to experience. Music just comes to life.

The Meze Audio 109 Pro is a beautifully crafted open-air dynamic headphone where no expense is spared in the creation and implementation of a masterpiece. Priced at $799 U.S.D., the 109 Pro is truly a work of art and masterful engineering. Just look at the image of this headphone. It is simply stunning.

This headphone design combines aesthetic appeal and functionality in a simple headband. I admire the artistic approach that makes it a fashion statement as well as an excellent audiophile experience. The ear cup's interior view shows a copper-colored grill that covers the Beryllium torus and Carbon Cellulose driver, like a pair of speakers with Accuton drivers. The grill is not only decorative, but also protective of the suspension and diaphragm. The design is meticulous and intentional, with every part made with elegance and sustainability in mind. The 109 Pro is a model of simplicity and elegance.

This elegance extends into the design of the headband and support mechanism. Uniform pressure is exerted when the headphone is placed on the head. The ear cushions sit around the ear without touching the ear lobes in any way shape or form. The clamping force is very light and yet just enough to prevent accidental movement when one looks up, down, and tilting from side-to-side. Aiding comfort, the Meze Audio 109 Pro headphones weigh about 375 grams. Not at all heavy and combined with the clamping force and ear cushions shape, this headphone is the king of comfort and performance.

THE BURN-IN PHASE AND EQUIPMENT

- Fiio M17 -> Meze Audio cable upgrade terminated in 6.3mm unbalanced phono plug -> Meze Audio 109 Pro

NOTES: The 109 Pro was obtained as a long-term loan from Meze Audio.

All the equipment I acquire undergoes a rigorous burn-in process, which includes music servers and various ancillary gear for a duration of 300 hours. In this case, the 109 Pro will be utilized with the Fiio M17 with random sessions on my desktop system so I can hear how the sound may have changed. These subtle variations in the sonic signature will be recorded in note form. I have been looking forward to reviewing this headphone for more than a year and now I have it. So here we go.

HOW DOES IT SOUND HALF-WAY INTO MY BURN-IN?

The Meze Audio 109 Pro is simply sublime.

The music details are crisp and clear with the Meze Audio 109 Pro. Compared to other headphones, this one brings out the nuances and subtleties of different albums and tracks. As a cello enthusiast, I appreciate how it enhances the rich and varied sounds of string instruments. I am amazed that dynamic drivers can deliver electrostatic-like quality.

After 150+ hours of burn-in, the headphones are sounding clearer and more coherent. Instruments are focused and placed clearly in the soundstage. Before burn-in, the instruments didn't have solid cohesion; half-way in before the settling phase, the layering and detail retrieval nearly matches the LIRIC and ELITE headphones from Meze. The angle of the driver contributes to the forward sounding presentation of the soundstage. The stock cable seems to be a secondary consideration, as Meze Audio kindly provided their copper cable upgrade with an unbalanced 6.3mm TRS termination. The audio quality assessment is based on this cable.

As burn-in continues, the soundstage expands like a curtain drawing open in an opera hall or theater. The midrange and bass notes have more depth and extension, making the 109 Pro a possible substitute for almost half of my open-air dynamic headphones. The Meze 109 Pro is exceptionally open and airy, reproducing intricate and intrinsic details in the complex notes of audio and music. It is a clear winner among the few headphones in this price range. It would be hard to find another headphone that can match the performance and elegance of the Meze Audio 109 Pro

SO I LIKE THE MEZE 109 PRO?

Like is a soft word...

I love the Meze 109 Pro so much that I don't want to part with it. I will request Meze Audio to let me either retain it for future reviews or buy the unit after I finish the two chapters of this article.

GENERAL LISTENING IMPRESSIONS

Utilizing the 109 Pro's strictly for music feels underutilized for my needs, as I generally listen to a variety of audio content. Enjoying video and gamer content is part of the normal use my headphones go through at any given moment. Utilizing the 109 Pro for gaming isn't the best fit as the sonic impacts in the audio doesn't quite align with what is happening. The sound is a bit laid back and doesn't quite present itself as an enthusiastic gaming experience.

Movies and videos are a different story as the dynamic range is a bit broader. There are complex dynamics in the audio that brings out the best performance of the beryllium torus carbon composite W-dome dynamic drivers. There is one movie that I utilize to test the dynamics of a headphone. "V for Vendetta" is an excellent movie with an awesome soundtrack in both music and sonic effects. The 109 Pro reproduces the nuances with the grace and poise of a well-tuned home theater system. Amplification is important, however not necessary as the 109 Pro's meta material drivers are quite sensitive.

LET US TALK ABOUT MUSIC, WHAT EQUIPMENT ARE YOU USING FOR THIS REVIEW?

Fiio M17 -> Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver 1.5m unbalanced upgrade cable -> Meze Audio 109 Pro

NOTE: the Fiio M17 is my preferred portable digital audio player. Its massive storage capacity and host versatility ensures the capability to play just everything I have. The THX AAA amplification stage is a match with the Meze 109 Pro where nothing is left to chance. I want to hear how this headphone truly compares with some of the performers in my collection. This includes a few upper echelon offerings from Sennheiser, AKG, and Meze themselves.

Let the review begin.

BURN-IN REQUIRED 400+ HOURS WITH THE INCLUDED MEZE AUDIO COPPER UPGRADE UNBALANCED.

At Canjam Socal 2023, Meze Audio provided the 109 Pro with their own brand of upgraded copper cables. The one used for the burn-in was their unbalanced copper at 1.2m length terminated with a TRS 6.3-mm phono plug. This is a high-quality cable with good strain relief on both ends. Sonically, the 109 Pro has a warm character with good detail retrieval, dynamics, and transparency coming quite close to the performance of their flagship offering, the ELITE. I prefer the sound of the 109 Pro because it is very engaging and enjoyable. The comfort of the headphone is excellent and the sound is coherent and organic in nature.

UNTIL I INTRODUCED THE LAVRICABLES ULTIMATE LINE SILVER IN UNBALANCED TERMINATION...

Lavricables is a true godsend with their line of reasonably priced high-fidelity, high-quality products. Silver conductor-based cable upgrades have been the mainstay of my choice of products. It has yielded great results especially from this Lithuanian brand. The quality and consistency of their products has continued to impress me, which is applied to the Meze 109 Pro headphones. They deliver exceptional clarity, definition, and musicality that surpasses the included Meze cable upgrade (shown below). There is a deeper dimension to the soundstage and the instruments are more resolved where I can pinpoint their location in the soundstage. Albums such as "Eiji Oue conducts Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances", reproduces the delicate nuances of the three movements in a way only a high-fidelity loudspeaker system could.

Silver conductors, when properly made and implemented, have the potential to elevate the sonic performance of the connected device. In this instance, the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver improves the detail retrieval and nuances while extending the soundstage in both height and depth. The semi-closed 109 Pro headphones have the unique ability to surround the listener with sound and the Lavricables upgrade further enhances the effect while improving the positioning of audio sources.

Vocals are better defined with contrasting details and soundstage presence. Using the album "Pavarotti and Friends", I was able to thoroughly enjoy the nuance and grace of the legendary tenor recalling an event I attended with my parents featuring the singer. The 109 Pro and the Lavricables upgrade removed most of the glare that the stock cable introduced and brought depth to the midrange, which provided support to Luciano Pavarotti and singers. There's detailed layering of textural information in the vocals that convey passion and emotion that wasn't heard with either the stock or Meze's copper cable upgrade.

ELABORATING ON THE TOPIC OF GENERAL LISTENING SUCH AS GAMES AND SHOWS UTILIZING THE LAVRICABLES ULTIMATE LINE SILVER UPGRADE..

Keeping the Lavricables instead of the Meze Copper Cable upgrade, using the Meze Audio 109 Pro to provide audio support for games such as Borderlands 3 and World War Z Aftermath is quite interesting. The soundstage envelopes the user in a way similar to an advanced DSP surround sound emulation for two-channel stereo output. Add to this, I purchased a Dolby Atmos Headphone license for Windows 10 to further enhance the soundstage capabilities of the 109 Pro matching my actual surround sound home theater system.

With deep reserves of bass and treble, the 109 Pro sounds like a reference class headphone costing well over $2k (with Dolby Atmos for Headphones disabled - like the Sennheiser HD800S and the AKG K812). Borderlands 3 has spatial audio effects that are rendered spectacularly by the 109 Pro. Bullet impacts have substantial support, and the firearm sounds are unrestricted. Meze's beryllium torus and carbon composite W-dome driver is capable of delivering these details precisely. The speed of this driver also means that there's an edginess to the audio waveform that emphasizes the resolving nature the of sonic signature.

Environmental sounds are quite realistic and don't sound like it was equalized in any particular frequency range (trying to avoid the phrase "emphasis and attenuation"). Still in the game Borderlands 3, getting shot at by the NPC (non-playable characters), the sounds of bullets flying past are amazingly rendered. With the exception of certain closed-back headphones, the 109 Pro has proven to be a brilliant sounding headphone for gamers with solid impact sounds and fast driver responses to dynamic sonic effects.

Viewing shows and movies with Dolby Atmos for Headphones activated, the 109 Pro renders all of the sound effects, dialog, and music in spectacular fashion. Using the movie "Matrix Resurrections", the music and dialog are reproduced in an accurate manner. The music sequences don't overwhelm the dialog taking place throughout the film. The sound effects are equally rendered with the same level of precision without overstating the quality of the scene sequence. The Dolby Atmos for Headphones software processing engine is able to correct certain frequency deficits by resampling through the Access app in Windows 10. The Meze Audio 109 Pro is capable of rendering both the dynamics and delicate audio responses requested from the movie; however, it is supportively emphasized by the Dolby Atmos engine.

It is a great sounding performance for a reference class headphone for under $1000.

Q and A

In your experience, are any frequencies emphasized or attenuated? It depends on the cable. Using the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver, these traits were not heard. The Meze Audio 109 Pro are tuned with music enjoyment in mind, which means they're warm sounding. The 4N high-purity silver conductors neutralized some of the warmth in favor of better detail resolution and pristine clarity without harshness and sibilance.

Would the Meze 109 Pro be a good starter headphone in the world of high-fidelity listening? This would depend on the budget allotted. At $800, the 109 Pro is a great reference headphone option, but it leaves very little room for cable and source upgrades. If these options are already part of the experience, then this headphone would be a great choice.

Is this the headphone to rule them all? Sadly no. Personally, I just can't have one headphone. I have to fulfill my personal collection with cans from different brands with different driver technologies. It is the nature of the world of audiophiles.

Does the quality of the source matter with the 109 Pro? Yes and No. There's enough resolving detail retrieval by the headphones where great source gear will be rendered beautifully. Poor quality sources sound ordinary like older Bose audio products such as the flimsily built TriPort. Poor recording quality can be heard through these carbon composite drivers; to avoid this, aim for 16 and 24-bit FLAC and AIFF/WAV recordings higher than 44.1-kHz

SUMMARY FOR NOW

The Meze Audio 109 Pro is a headphone for beginners, advanced, and audiophile master collectors. It will define how a person will shape their audio component collection and listening system. Personal listening is very subjective, and some may feel the 109 Pro may not be resolving or musical enough when compared to Sennheiser and Beyerdynamic's offerings. Spending about seven months with the Meze 109 Pro headphones with the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver connected provides a fresh perspective on how this headphone performs with both music and general listening. I like how the music envelops and engages without harshness and sibilance. There's an organic and lively quality to the music played feeling like I was part of what is being experienced. It is the same when watching movies, shows, and playing games. There's a realistic quality to the sounds and effects presented that is nearly indistinguishable from the real world.

If this was my only headphone, I would be content for many years until something wears out. Meze Audio has thought this one through and like so many of their products, replacement parts are available on their website. The finely crafted Black Walnut wood driver housings are some of the finest in the audio industry. The attention to detail is a true masterclass of form, function, engineering and design. I love the artistic language of Meze Audio and feel the next chapter will further solidify my opinions on how wonderful the 109 Pro headphones are.

Stay tuned for Chapter Two coming soon.

Some Good Food for Thought.

Chpt 3: The Audeze LCD-5 - Critical Listening and Final Thoughts

2024-04-23T07:34:00.000+02:00

The Audeze LCD-5 is one of the most engaging and wonderful sounding reference headphones I have had the privilege of experiencing. Source gear contributes to this statement because a great reference flagship product must have the highest order of audio front-end components to perform spectacularly.

In the first chapter...

The second chapter I introduced the test gear...

In this chapter, I will discuss what it's like to hear the Audeze LCD-5 perform with top tier gear in solid-state and tube equipment. Here is the equipment list.

Solid-State: Audirvana Origin with 3TB of lossless and DSD album collections -> Esoteric K01XD (USB DAC) <> Esoteric Grandioso G1X Master Clock Generator -> Benchmark HPA4 Headphone Amplifier with both balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs.

VALVE OR VACUUM TUBE: Audirvana Origin with 3TB of lossless and DSD album collections -> Esoteric K01XD (USB DAC) <> Esoteric Grandioso G1X Master Clock Generator -> EAR HP4 vacuum tube unbalanced headphone amplifier.

INTERCONNECTS: Cardas Golden Reference Balanced for the solid-state system. Moon Audio Silver Dragon series unbalanced for the EAR HP4. UIT Audio PMP USB digital interconnect from the computer with Audirvana Origin to the Esoteric K01XD. Headphone cables purchased from Lavricables.com

NOTES: The included stock cable is fine for burn-in, however the details in the textures reproduced by the LCD-5 were far more refined and transparent with the Lavricables upgrade. I purchased both the unbalanced 6.3mm and the balanced 4.4mm Pentacon configurations.

THE SOLID-STATE RIG USING THE BENCHMARK HPA4

The Audeze LCD-5 is a highly resolving planar headphone. Capable of reproducing micro-fine details, the Audeze flagship planar entices the listener to experience each album in its entirety. The full-bodied and layered midrange (an Audeze trait) is clearly heard distortion free. The THX AAA 888 amplification stage of the Benchmark HPA4 ensures clean and undistorted audio performance. One would think the achromatic audio reproduction of the Benchmark would sterilize the Audeze LCD-5; however, it demonstrates how well the planar drivers are capable of reproducing the delicate details of the chosen albums (the chosen ones).

The Esoteric K01XD is an excellent source component to feed the Benchmark HPA4 head amp as it supports both single-ended and balanced connections. Since this headphone amplifier features both signal connections, I will write two sub-sections of the Solid-State review to inform the reader the sonic differences, if any.

BALANCED 4.4MM PENTACON

The Audeze LCD-5 is a remarkable headphone that sounds amazing with a balanced connection. The Benchmark's THX output stage provides precise control of the driver, making the LCD-5 the ultimate reference class for high-fidelity personal listening. The soundstage is spacious and dimensional, with depth, width and height that were already noticeable before the Lavricables upgrade. The cable upgrade enhances subtle details without altering the frequency response curve. Accurate reproduction of the audio waveform is important, but not enough to make it musical; the Lavricables and Audeze LCD-5 combination achieves both accuracy and enjoyment.

The balanced output stage of the Benchmark HPA4 is capable of delivering deep power reserves with precise control. The Audeze LCD-5 benefits from these attributes because of the accurate reproduction of the audio waveform. 100-decibels of sensitivity should mean easy to drive; on the contrary, the volume had to be set about 60/100 with the gain set to Ultra. The Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver in balanced combined with the LCD-5 is the perfect match for the chosen ones I have listed in this article.

- Enough Descriptions - How does it perform?

Ellington's "Jazz Party" album highlights the treble details delicately while reproducing the soundstage beautifully. Audeze's house sound is a bit more coherent with a richness that is far more believable than with the stock cable. The first track "Malletoba Spank" is crystal clear in the treble energy with equal frequency balance of mids and lows. The soundstage is unbelievably spacious. It is an enjoyable landscape combined with a great sounding first track.

"Medley: Toot Suite" is a whimsical and engaging second track that continues to seduce the listener deeper into the album. This twenty plus minute medley sounds absolutely fabulous. The instruments are rendered and reproduced beautifully; oodles of musical energy abound. This thought is further reinforced when playing the third track, "Satin Doll". The Audeze LCD-5 is a seductive sounding headphone with the capability of transporting (metaphorically speaking) the listener back to where the performance was recorded. It is simply magical how the combination of planar magnetic drive technologies reproduces the detailed, layered textures and dynamics accurately through the Benchmark's balanced output stage.

Amid the dizzying array of albums in my collection, the selected series of recordings in this article highlight the delicate balance of the Audeze LCD-5's frequency reproduction. This is especially true with "Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances" conducted by Eiji Oue. Encoded in DSD64, this Reference Recording has an analog presence combined with an airiness that is rare from a digital recording. The soundstage is exceptionally spacious with the instrument sections defined throughout the orchestra hall. The music itself is engaging with a complex story told through the dynamic layering of audio waveforms. This technical performance is faithfully reproduced through the nanoscale planar diaphragms from Audeze. It is difficult to imagine music reproduction without the LCD-5 combined with the Benchmark's remarkable THX output stage.

This is especially true with the third movement of "Symphonic Dances: Lento Assai" where the final five minutes of the track reach a dramatic climax. The midrange is silky and sweet with a refinement that could easily rival many home loudspeaker systems (Focal Stella Utopia or the Marten Coltrane). The bass notes have layered detail and impact that is astounding as it doesn't overwhelm the rest of the frequencies. The "Symphonic Dances" are beautifully reproduced through the LCD-5 via the balanced output stage. I can't think of anything to change or try to improve upon.

- What about the unbalanced version of the Lavricables and HPA4?

The audio reproduction is the same with a slight reduction in soundstage and headroom. It is somewhat the fault of the Benchmark HPA4's THX 888 amplification stage because its highest level of precision is the balanced connection. Not diving too far into this section of the review, the Audeze LCD-5 sounds neutral and detailed using the unbalanced connection. The soundstage is reduced, and the instruments are closer together as though being crammed in an older concert hall. There is a bit less treble energy as the airiness of the instruments in the studio/concert hall have some form of attenuation throughout their frequency range. This could be the nature of the amplification stage or tuning of the Benchmark HPA4.

- THE EAR HP4 VACUUM TUBE SINGLE-ENDED PERFORMANCE.

I think this is the best pairing of the two desktop class headphone amplifiers. The Benchmark represents the best solid-state head amp for under $5000. The EAR HP4 is the most linear and analog sounding single-ended amplifier for the same money. Utilizing the factory installed vacuum tubes, the EAR HP4 is a force to be reckoned with. Pairing the HP4 with the Audeze LCD-5 is a near match made in heaven, if not a bit warm in overall tonality.

The Audeze LCD-5 has a nominal impedance of 15-ohms, which means the headphones should be connected to the Low-Z output jacks. I don't follow conventional thinking or wisdom, so I used the High-Z phono-jacks. There is a deeper midrange presence that wasn't heard when utilizing the unbalanced stage of the Benchmark HPA4. The High-Z stage of the EAR HP4 handles transients and bass attacks better than the Low-Z output jacks.

- Balanced or Unbalanced; which is better for the Audeze LCD-5?

Both connection types deliver a slightly different experience. Utilizing the unbalanced output stage of both the Benchmark HPA4 and EAR HP4 (for sake of simplification the Benchmark HPA4 = B-HPA4 and the EAR HP4 = E-HP4), the sonic details are nearly identical with the characteristic warmth in the tonal balance with the vacuum tube head amplifier. In the unbalanced configuration, the Audeze LCD-5 is very smooth, transparent, musical, and detailed. Switching to the balanced connection, all of these characteristics are rendered with an added level of midrange energy. To clarify, the midrange has detailed, textured layering that is better defined in balanced mode output than with single-end. This could be attributed to the power requirements of the Audeze's planar magnetic type as some of my dynamic driver-based headphones perform the same with either configuration.

- THE BENCHMARK HPA4 IS CHOSEN FOR THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE IN UNBALANCED CONFIGURATION -

"Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances" conducted by Eiji Oue - Minnesota Symphony Orchestra - DSD64 - This is one of the best recordings I could have ever paired with this headphone system. There is depth, width, height, and many other soundstage attributes showcased by the Audeze LCD-5. Granted I am using some of the finest audio components in the audiophile market, however, it is a testament to the engineering of this flagship planar magnetic headphone. The delicate reproduction of the strings echoes throughout the concert hall complementing the horns and percussion. The serene and beautifully reproduced frequencies of this well conducted masterpiece is the byproduct of the Audeze's cutting edge planar driver.

The detailed layering of the instruments in the soundstage is very expressive with clear definitions of each section. There is near perfect coherence in the frequency range where every note and nuance of the recording is reproduced faithfully. It is simply amazing to hear the story being told through this beautifully composed piece of music. The Audeze LCD-5 reproduces every detail, layer, and texture accurately. It is a testament to the synergy of two flagship products, the headphones and the Esoteric K01XD. Audeze's signature sound is preserved as demonstrated in the third movement "Lento Assai" where the sonic details flow with mesmerizing beauty. There is no emphasis or attenuation in the entire movement, which highlights the precise control the head amp has over the LCD-5's planar magnetic driver.

"Malletoba Spank" from Ellington's Jazz Party album - FLAC 16/44.1 - The crystal-clear highs and multi-layer textured midrange highlight the energy and passion in this opening cut of Ellington's Jazz Party. This single cut showcases the frequency response performance of the Audeze LCD-5. After spending close to an hour repeating this track over-and-over, I have come to appreciate the resolving nature of the nano-scale planar diaphragms. Every detail and nuance of the recording is reproduced; linking me back in time when it was first created (metaphorically, not literally).

This first cut of Ellington's Jazz Party is passionately rendered and organically images the instruments in the soundstage. The carefully balanced overtones resonate where it conjures emotions relating to the history of Jazz. It is the combination of the source and amplification stage that ensures the LCD-5's faithful and natural reproduction of the details, nuances, and articulation of the primary and secondary notes/tones.

It is simply magical...

"Butterfly Lovers" violin solo performed by Joshua Bell with the Singapore Chinese Orchestra - FLAC 24/96 - I discovered this album through Qobuz, thanks to my editor's recommendation, and I decided to buy it. It is a musical love story that blends a classical Chinese composition with Eastern and Western instruments, featuring the famous violinist Joshua Bell as the soloist. The first movement, "Adagio Cantabile", starts with a beautiful introduction, followed by a serene violin solo by Bell. It is a touching piece that harmonizes Chinese and Western instruments and conveys emotions of joy, sadness, and steadfast love. These feelings continue in the second movement, "Allegro", where the instruments and Bell's violin seem to dance together. The piece reaches its first climax near the end, and the Audeze LCD-5 delivers a stunning and realistic listening experience, capturing every detail, nuance, and grace.

Three pieces outside of the main album showcase the delicate transients and midrange layering details that the LCD-5 reproduces. These orchestral compositions may sound familiar, even though the composers are not listed in this album (my editor found the tracks listed below). "Butterfly Lovers" truly highlights all of the best qualities of the Audeze LCD-5. The combination of gear also helps to achieve this reference-class audiophile potential.

8. Introduction et rondo capriccioso in A minor, Op. 28 (Camille Saint-Saëns)

9. “Méditation” from Thaïs (Jules Massenet)

10. Zigeunerweisen, Op. 20 (Pablo de Sarasate)

A truly masterful performance from the Audeze LCD-5.

"The Wonderful Sounds of Female Vocals" DSD64 - The DSD is simply sublime with a collection of some of the greatest female vocals in modern musical history. The first track "Cry Me a River" by Julie London is simply golden. London's voice is wonderfully full-bodied and surprisingly realistic; it is the Esoteric's DAC processor's capability combined with the B-HPA4 that ensures faithful reproduction of the entire frequency range to whatever it is connected. The Audeze LCD-5 sounds awesome and there isn't any frequencies or notes missing in the recording.

The song that follows is "Black Coffee" by Ella Fitzgerald, whose voice sounds divine. The piano harmonizes with Fitzgerald's voice in a remarkable way. I can appreciate the subtleties, layers, and fine nuances in her voice that enchant and captivate me. The LCD-5 reveals the soul of the song with its accurate reproduction of the main and secondary overtones. This is a flawless and truly reference-level rendition of this track. Throughout this album, I cannot find any flaw or criticism to point out, as the nano-scale planar drivers deliver everything beautifully. There is no harshness or hardness in the high frequencies. The details are rendered smoothly, precisely, and with airy delicate transparency that resembles a wonderful dream.

"Valkyrie" by John Ottman - FLAC 16/44.1 - This is a highly dynamic and punchy sounding album complete with both synthesized and natural percussion. The second track showcases the tightness of the planar driver's delivery of the percussion section combined with the mids and highs. There is cohesion of every instrument in the orchestrated soundtrack with no bloat or lack of impact. Precision and coherence are the signature attributes of the Audeze LCD-5 that no other brand and model combination can truly match at the set price point. The soundstage is both airy and expansive with every instrument section defined and laid out clearly.

The instruments are arranged in detail with no gaps in the frequency response and range. It feels like listening to a pair of reference audio monitors without the flatness. The soundtrack has many dramatic passages that make me stop what I'm doing and pay attention to the energy reproduced by the LCD-5. It is hard to take off these headphones once the music starts playing. The nano-scale planar drivers are fast and capture every detail in the layers of frequencies within the audio signal. This is a key feature that makes the Audeze LCD-5 very enjoyable to listen or monitor with.

Most of the "Valkyrie" soundtrack delivers the movie's storyline in the music. The LCD-5 is able to reproduce the story's score without having to view the movie. All of the details are intimated in the soundtrack through the LCD-5, which in and of itself is a masterful feat.

"Famous Blue Raincoat" by Leonard Cohen performed by Jennifer Warnes - 16/44.1 FLAC - Part of my regular group of audiophile albums for review and enjoyment, every track on this album showcases the exceptional writing and arrangement of instruments for the performer Jennifer Warnes. Classified as Pop/Rock Genre, this album sounds more Jazz than what it is categorized. Focusing on the title song, "Famous Blue Raincoat"; it starts with the saxophone slightly to the right from center. The double-bass is centered and behind Warnes while the piano is somewhere to the left. The LCD-5 reproduces the studio staging with fine precision. The full-bodied nature of her voice focuses the passion of the writing and energy of the instruments into a coherent expression of emotion.

The Audeze LCD-5 is capable of reproducing those detailed nuances in the instruments and vocals. Sure, the source and amplification gear are high tier, however, it is the Audeze LCD-5 that must accurately reproduce these frequency responses and ranges. This is a standard Red Book format Audio CD conversion to FLAC recording and was wonderfully mastered, which is why it is still part of my collection of albums for the review cycle. Reproducing the essence of the recording through the LCD-5 is a true privilege to experience.

- Why Discount the EAR HP4 from this review?

The EAR HP4 is a vacuum tube, unbalanced headphone amplifier. It was tuned by the late Tim de Paravicini. It is an excellent reference class headphone amplifier with smooth and linear sonics, dynamics, and detail retrieval. The E-HP4 has a warm sound especially in the midrange, which isn't a negative, but it isn't sonically neutral. I require a neutral reference headphone amp and it is the reason I chose the Benchmark HPA4. On other days, when a review is not warranted, I would use the EAR HP4, but for this article, the Benchmark solid-state amp satisfied my requirements.

- So how well does the Audeze LCD-5 perform with the E-HP4?

It can be said that certain audio qualities surpass those of the B-HPA4. The E-HP4 delivers treble and midrange tones with greater refinement. Brass and strings exhibit less harshness and more sophistication. The midrange is notably smooth and warm, albeit with a slight tendency towards blurriness, which may be attributed to the default tubes. Nevertheless, I refrain from altering the original tuning as I am in pursuit of my ideal reference sound, devoid of any coloration. The LCD-5 epitomizes a neutral, or technically, an achromatic sound profile. Distinct from Audeze's signature sound, the LCD-5 impresses with its remarkable achromatic nature, indicating that the source and amplification equipment will significantly influence its character.

When listening to the same series of albums as mentioned previously, one can discern a slight dampening of emotions between the B-HPA4 and E-HP4. These nuances, although subtle, are sufficient to distinguish the two. I prefer the sound of the EAR, but because of the warmer tones caused by the vacuum tube stage, I can't say for certain that is how the recordings are supposed to sound. The accuracy of the Audeze LCD-5 means I can closely gauge the sonic signature of the cello, which is an instrument that I play, on occasion. This listener's experience is valuable in determining my neutral reference sound when comparing different headphones with comparable source and amplification hardware. Plus, there is a laid-back quality in the audio that wasn't there with the Benchmark headphone amplifier. Regardless of volume level, the EAR is a listener's paradise and not an accurate representation of what the recording is all about. It could be the combination of source gear that leads to my thoughts on the matter.

Hence the reason the EAR was omitted from the main part of the article.

- There are hardly any real mentions about sound and soundstage. Why?

It is typical of my writing style to skip areas of significant sonic importance. That was not my intention, but a byproduct of a confluence of ideas integrated within this article.

"The Soundstage"

The Audeze LCD-5 has both an immersive and expressive sound that seduces the listener. Gone are the in-your-head audio impressions. The sound envelops you whether it is a music album or general listening situation such as watching shows and movies or gaming theater applications. Once the LCD-5 is properly situated on the noggin, around-the-ears with music/audio playing, I can easily forget that I am listening through a pair of headphones. The soundstage is lifelike without any artificial presence caused by waveguide manipulation or obstruction. It is the most realistic experience anyone can enjoy without heavily investing in their listening rig.

"The Sound"

The Audeze LCD-5 is a Reference Class headphone. What that means is the sound is close to neutral without sounding artificial or sterile. The audio signal is reproduced close to the original. Subtle variations including warmth and transparency could be caused by fitment or cables. Using the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver with the Audeze LCD-5 brought out the true character of the nano-scale planar drivers. The treble, midrange, and lows are reproduced with exceptional precision. The speed matches with the audio signal; attributes typically associated with high-end electrostatic headphone drivers.

Cables play an important role in the dynamic performance of the headphone. The combination of the Audeze LCD-5 and Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver creates the highest order of sonic and soundstage performance possible. There is considerable refinement in the audio signature. There aren't any sharp peaks in the treble and yet there is an airy nature to the sound. These attributes continue to seduce the listener to experience further. I personally enjoy the sonic reproduction by the Audeze LCD-5 and Lavricables combination better than some of the offerings from UIT and Kimber Kable. This is a personal preference based on the equipment I pair this headphone with.

FINAL THOUGHTS AND THE FUTURE

The Future First

The Audeze LCD-5 is a reference flagship planar headphone with one of the most neutral sound profiles I have ever experienced. It is a powerful statement piece that has become a permanent part of my audiophile hardware collection. I used to think that the Sennheiser Orpheus was the ultimate statement piece (it is in a class of its own), but the LCD-5 is a worthy contender for the modern era. Despite its steep price of nearly $5k, it is a worthwhile investment for anyone who values audiophile excellence. I highly recommend upgrading the cable, as I plan to use this headphone for many reference listening sessions and articles in the near future.

Regarding the cable upgrade, Lavricables reached out via email to inquire whether I would be interested in reviewing their Grand Line flagship headphone cable. Given that the Audeze LCD-5 is a mainstay in my collection, the Lavricables Grand Line cable will serve as an excellent subject for a future fourth article, which will highlight ongoing excellence in performance and scalability. Looking ahead, I hope to publish another review of the Audeze LCD-5, featuring the Lavricables Grand Line headphone cable, hopefully before CanJam SoCal 2024.

Final Thoughts

The Audeze LCD-5 is a must have flagship planar headphone because it is the culmination of the best technologies the brand has to offer in a single product. It is the lightest model in their lineup. This is a truly impressive sounding headphone. The LCD-5 reproduces the delicate nuances in the audio signal where no discernible artifacts exist. The sound quality is outstanding, with every recording sounding complete when played, tested, or auditioned through these truly masterful headphones. It is the most impressive product from Audeze since the CRBN, their first electrostatic headphone utilizing carbon nanotubes.

The power demands of the Audeze LCD-5 are typical of many planar headphones despite the technical specifications. Based on experience, proper amplification is best for full performance of the nano-scale planar magnetic drivers. The Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver was a contributing factor as the 5N high-purity silver conductors were able to reduce the potential loss of the amplified signal. The stock cable is good; however, the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver is superior in many qualities without the typical harshness and sibilance associated with the conductor material. All of these factors are what led to a three-chapter review of the Audeze LCD-5. It is an amazing performer in both general and critical listening experiences. I can't ask for anything better.

Some Good Food for Thought

RECOMMENDED PRODUCT IN THE AUDIOPHILE WORLD

AUDEZE LCD-5 PRICED AT $4500

BENCHMARK HPA4 PRICED AT $3500

EAR HP4 PRICED AT $5895

LAVRICABLES ULTIMATE LINE SILVER PRICED ABOUT $450

LAVRICABLES GRAND LINE SILVER PRICED ABOUT $1100

FIRST IMPRESSIONS - The Moondrop Para

2024-03-16T20:03:00.006+01:00

"Impressions - The Moondrop Para"

Purchased in November 2023 from Apos Audio with Apos Flow 1.5m cable in red terminated in XLR. Paid $255 during Black Friday Sales Event.

I observed the Moondrop Para during the CanJam Socal event 2023 at the Irvine Marriot. Never auditioning the Para, I drew my thoughts and conclusions based on my listening impressions derived from the Venus (Moondrop flagship planar headphone). Purchased through Apos Audio, I took delivery of the headphone five days later and immediately opened the box. The headphones are simply elegant and well-constructed. I didn't bother using the included stock cable. I immediately unpackaged the Apos Flow cable and connected the XLR-to-Pentacon balanced adapter into my Fiio M17 digital audio player.

Initial listening impressions were beyond my expectations. First off, these are not easy to drive headphones. They may produce good volume through decent amplification; however, proper application of power and the Para performs better than their suggested MSRP. This basically means the Para is capable of sounding close to some of my higher-end offerings such as the DCA Aeon 2 Noire and the T+A Solitaire-P-SE. Mind everyone reading this, I am not utilizing the included stock cable, but I am using the Apos Flow cable upgrade to elevate the performance.

Cables make all the difference in the world and upon initial listening of the Moondrop Para, I installed the APOS Audio Flow cables for the burn-in instead of the included stock since I want the best sound possible. Conducting a burn-in with the upgrade cable means that both the headphone and accessory will perform as whole. After the first twenty-four hours elapsed, I can hear the potential greatness these headphones will have. They sound absolutely amazing without any trace of coloration on its own. The Moondrop Para is another one of those achromatic audio signature planar magnetic driver headphones that deliver accuracy without sacrificing musicality.

There is a soundstage quality that surpasses a few higher priced dynamic and planar driver headphones. Hell, it is far more expansive sounding than the Audeze LCD-5 and Meze Audio ELITE, but less than the T+A Solitaire P-SE and Meze Audio 109 Pro. This is a First Impression thoughts and opinions as the headphones will require about 200-hours to sound the absolute best. For now, these headphones are exceptionally impressive and better sounding than the Moondrop Venus.

An in-depth review is coming for this headphone.

Some Food for Thought. Thanks

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

2024-01-02T05:11:00.009+01:00

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

A list of First Impression Products and the associated thoughts and opinions. New products entering into The Audiophile World will be shown here. Some of these products may not advance to a full in-depth review because I don't criticize and put negative thoughts. I only want to pass good vibes. If I don't like the product or service, I won't mention them past this point.

Auribus Acoustics LLC: Sierra

Moondrop Para

Chpt 2: The Audeze LCD-5 - "The Journey and What an Amazing One"

2023-12-01T23:07:00.003+01:00

In the first article, I discussed my initial listening impressions including the equipment utilized for the highest performance. Based on this, the LCD-5 is a great sounding headphone in its stock configuration featuring the 6.3mm stereo phono plug. Having said that, I feel that a change in cable may yield better sonic results. Using the same source equipment, I changed the cable to the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver in the 6.3mm TRS unbalanced termination. Going from stock to the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver expanded the soundstage, improved transparency, enhanced the airiness, extending treble and low frequencies. The layered and liquid midrange remains with a slight bit of reinforcement from the high and low extension. The Lavricables upgrade resolves the multi-dimensional and layered artifacts that are highlighted by the stock cable into a coherent reproduction of the audio and music in my collection.

The Audeze LCD-5 flagship planar headphone is already a heavenly listening experience. It is coherently resolved with the Lavricables upgrade where it virtually (audio standpoint) transports me to the recording venues, experiencing performances never imagined. Like traveling the universe with Pink Floyd. Without drugs. Thanks to Dr.C for such a joyous experience.

THE AUDEZE SIGNATURE SOUND...

Audiophiles have a sound signature preference.

The Audeze LCD-5 and the Fiio M17 audio player.

I have several Audeze headphones and in-ear monitors. I take great pleasure in appreciating the sonic quality of the Audeze line of audio products. The EL-8 is a BMW designed planar headphone that looks as good as it sounds. The LCD-X is a neutral and musical sounding planar magnetic headphone that weighs down the listener in a neck stiffening embrace. The LCD-24 is a comfortable combination of both physical and audio elements. Then there is the LCD-5, the star of this article with every key piece of technology Audeze has to offer in a flagship planar package.

Every incarnation of the Audeze planar magnetic driver technology features their house audio signature that distinguishes this brand apart from others of the same design. It is the multi-layered and textured midrange, which is where most of the magic occurs in the recordings that we audiophiles covet. Accurate reproduction of the music is an understatement with Audeze's products, yet it describes the audio quality of the LCD-5. There are other descriptors such as detailed, lively, and transparent; all of which convey the sense of an organic reproduction of recordings.

The Fiio M17 was chosen due to its unique amplification stage and the zero compromise DAC solution. The other reason for utilizing this source is the ability to move from one location to the next, either for work or pleasure. There were other choices for source gear, however, it is based on what I have in my collection. I could have chosen the Astell & Kern SP2000T or the SP3000; it wasn't a good match due to the gain and volume output (doesn't produce enough dynamic power to drive the LCD-5).

THE EQUIPMENT

- Audirvana Origin either from desktop Windows 10 or mobile using Apple Macbook Pro -> Fiio M17 > AudioQuest Pearl USB-A-to-C .5m digital interconnect for USB DAC Mode applications -> Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver 2.0m terminated in 6.3mm unbalanced TRS -> Audeze LCD-5.

- Audirvana Origin -> UIT USB digital interconnect -> Esoteric K01XD<->Esoteric G1X -> UIT Unbalanced Stereo RCA interconnects 2.0m -> UIT Unbalanced Stereo RCA interconnect 2.0m -> E.A.R. HP4 vacuum tube headphone amplifier -> Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver 2.0m terminated in 6.3mm unbalanced TRS -> Audeze LCD-5.

NOTES: Nine months in and the Audeze LCD-5 continues to mesmerize both me and my editor. Taking the included stock cable out of the equation, I am utilizing the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver to reach my neutral reference preference for the headphone. It is not based on measurements but based on my history of extensive listening of live performances at several concert halls around the world. As an avid cello player, I have a firm understanding of musical instruments and how they interact with each other and the room.

This should be an interesting session.

THE JOURNEY...

Living with this headphone is a joyous experience. I think the clamping force of the headband has lessened or my head has been acclimating to the fitment. Having said that, the headphone is comfortable for long listening sessions as the LCD-5 is substantially lighter than the LCD-24. The included stock cable is light enough, so head movements aren't hindered, however, the XLR termination and adapter increases bulk in an area that proves cumbersome for my source gear.

The Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver terminated with the 6.3mm TRS stereo unbalanced plug was purchased to reduce connector stress during on-the-go use with the Fiio M17. The E.A.R. HP4 is strictly unbalanced 6.3mm, which is why the termination plug was selected; universal compatibility. After a week of continuous operation to burn-in the new cables, the Audeze LCD-5 revealed another secret in its detailed, refined, and liquid midrange. The airiness, transparency, and clarity of the soundstage is revealed in full instead of half-measures featured with the included stock cable. All of these components combined form two systems with one of them advancing to the final chapter of the Audeze LCD-5 long-term listening and ownership.

At the end of this journey, I hope to acquire this LCD-5 for my permanent collection. Some months later, after the final chapter has been published, I will feature an article that discusses the "Audeze Signature Sound" using every product I have acquired since joining the Los Angeles Orange County Audio Society. Again thanks to Dr. Colich and the team at Audeze LLC.

GENERAL LISTENING THROUGH THE FIIO M17 THROUGH WINDOWS 10

The AudioQuest Pearl USB digital interconnect is the most inexpensive cable in the company's portfolio. It serves the purpose of a digital audio interface between the computer and the DAC. This provides music services and general listening sessions such as movies, TV shows, and gaming. The Fiio M17 was chosen for its outstanding reference desktop class audio hardware housed in a semi-portable chassis. The Fiio's THX AAA-788+ balanced head amp output stage is powerful, precise, and musical, which is a great pairing with the neutral tuning of the Audeze LCD-5.

Windows 10's audio support allows the Fiio M17 to perform to its highest potential when used as a USB DAC and not a portable digital audio player. It is interesting to hear the LCD-5 perform as both an audiophile and general listening headphone product. The majority of audiophiles will probably use the LCD-5 for music and not everything else; games, serial shows, and movies - just to name a few examples. The solid-state THX AAA amplification stage delivers the precise and achromatic audio signal to the Audeze LCD-5 (sounding absolutely amazing). There is a highly dimensional quality to the soundstage with near neutral balance of the sonics and dynamics.

The latest gaming adventure I have been immersed in is "Gotham Knights". The premise is similar to the CW Show of the same name. The theatrical opening sequence highlights the dynamics, soundstage, and airy reproduction of music and sound effects. The clarity and pinpoint position of the characters in the sequence demonstrates how resolving the LCD-5 is when presented a detailed audio signal. Solid bass notes support the midrange and treble effects with eerie accuracy and commanding presence. Explosions have a multi-textural layering quality that is quite realistic (I have heard real explosive events) and is delivered without emphasis or attenuation. The airiness of the environment is attributed to the LCD-5's planar driver utilizing a Nano-Scale diaphragm, unique voice coil tech and their Fluxor magnetic array. Audeze's patented Fazor waveguides and Parallel Uniforce voice coil ensures a uniform magnetic field for the highest performance across the substrate.

The outcome is a virtual audio environment that is both tonally neutral and organically realistic. The LCD-5's drivers are capable of reproducing the dynamic sequences of "Gotham Knights," without sounding constrained. These highly dynamic scenes would tax lesser planar magnetic headphones, but the culmination of technologies from Audeze ensures near perfect audio reproduction. This would make it the ultimate reference audio product for gaming enthusiasts, minus the microphone.

MOVIES THROUGH THE AUDEZE LCD-5

"Mission Impossible: Fallout" features an action-packed series of scenes that truly tests the Audeze LCD-5's composure and neutral tuning. Planar magnetic drivers can be designed to match the transient performance of an electrostatic exciter. The Audeze LCD-5 is one of a few in my collection that matches the speed of two reference electrostatic systems; the old Sennheiser Orpheus HE/HEV90 and the HiFiMan Shangri-La. Having said that, I have used both the old Orpheus and the Shangri-La to supply the audio with movies. It is a truly expensive way to enjoy a great movie. The Audeze LCD-5 is up to the task with every detail rendered to the highest quality derived from the decoded digital audio track.

The Fiio M17's THX AAA amplification stage has the commanding power to properly drive the Audeze LCD-5 without clipping. Many action packed theatrical releases can tax proper home theater systems. Headphones are not that much different due to the high demands of complex oscillations and large diaphragm excursions. This is where proper amplification is required with planar driver headphones because this movie tested the limits of what the LCD-5 can handle. Featuring highly complex and dynamic multi-dimensional effects, the DTS audio track tests the composure of the Nano-Scale Parallel Uniforce diaphragms.

The chase sequences in "MI: Fallout" are epic. The details and dynamics of the music and effects are fantastic. The surround sound effect is an eerie experience since this is a headphone and not a home theater system. The THX AAA amplification combined with the Nano-Scale Parallel Uniforce drivers in the Audeze LCD-5 all but guarantees a perfect match in audio reproduction. Watching "Mission Impossible" is truly exciting with these headphones.

MUSIC THROUGH PROPER REFERENCE AUDIO GEAR

Using the Esoteric K01XD and G1X may be overkill, but this is what we audiophiles go through when attempting to hear everything possible from a headphone. A balance of solid-state and vacuum tube gear is how hard-core audio enthusiasts want to hear their music. The E.A.R. HP4 is a great pairing with the Esoteric K01XD as a source with the G1X master clock generator, making digital sound better. The Audeze LCD-5 is capable of accurately reproducing every detail, note, and nuance. High-Fidelity source gear ensures accurate reproduction; however, the vacuum tube headphone amp adds a little warmth (it is a glass tube thing - I can't really explain it) therefore adding some musicality to the decoded digital audio signal.

The Audeze LCD-5 sings beautifully when I put on Luciano Pavarotti and Joan Sutherland in "La Traviata". A beautifully reproduced recording from London-Decca is what most people would say with this combination of gear. What I hear is more emotion as the music and singers quickly transports me (metaphorically) to where and when it was recorded. It is not a recording anymore; it is an experience that is difficult to achieve with any other headphone. The Audeze LCD-5 is exceptionally resolving without sounding like a mere recording. Music through the LCD-5 is an awesome listening experience that isn't easily matched or duplicated.

Comparing the music reproduced through this system is a bit more refined and polished than through the Fiio M17. Utilizing Audirvana Studio on Windows 10, streaming music to the Esoteric K01XD ensures the same file is used on both mobile and desktop systems. The G1X is Esoteric's Rubidium oven-temp regulated crystal oscillator master clock generator and serves to synchronize the connected devices to 10-MHz. This ensures proper operation of the digital-to-analog converter's processing function and capability. For more information on the understanding of Master Clock Generators, please click here -> Link.

Music and general use audio through the Esoteric stack are far superior in audio performance than the Fiio M17, however, the price tag can easily equal the starting price of a BMW 3-series or Mercedes C-class. In fact, the entire DAC, MCG, cables, and headphone amplifier total $50k while the Audeze LCD-5 alone is $4500. The Lavricables upgrade is $280.

The third and final chapter will use the Esoteric and E.A.R. combination for the critical listening sections to bring into focus what it is like living with this headphone.

THE SUMMARY FOR NOW

The Audeze LCD-5 is a masterclass in reference audiophile reproduction. The headphone's neutral tuning specification allows a slight amount of forgiveness in the source material. If the source is less than pristine, the Audeze LCD-5 will not overly reveal the imperfections in the recording. This comment is with the stock cable because the Lavricable Ultimate Line Silver adds some necessary clarity thus allowing every detail to be faithfully reproduced. Class-A vacuum tube amplification softens the sonic signature where the treble is a little more refined. The liquid smooth midrange, which is Audeze's house sound remains and continues to define the character of the LCD-flagship.

Cables are exceptionally important with the LCD-5 because the type of conductor, technology, and geometry determine how much quality and detail is preserved. The decision to use Lavricables over UIT is based on how it sounds with either a portable audio player or home audio system. It is important to the reader that every selection made is based on how well the LCD-5 performs with the provided gear. This includes the audio components, which in the final chapter will feature some of the best source and amplification equipment in my collection.

Explanations aside, after ten-months in my hands, or on my head (not continuously) the Audeze LCD-5 continues to impress as every audio signal is reproduced without wearer's fatigue. The clamping force made my skull slightly smaller, or I have broken-in the headband a little. I can wear this headphone for hours on end without feeling tired or stiff (my neck that is). Far more comfortable than the LCD-24 and X, the LCD-5 is truly a work of engineering art. Sincere thanks to the Audeze team for sending the LCD-5 for long-term review. Stay Tuned for Chapter Three.

- Fiio M17 - E.A.R. HP4 - Esoteric K01XD - Esoteric G1X - UIT Audio - Lavricables -

The VZR Audio - Model One: The Audiophile Gaming Reference Headphone

2023-10-21T22:41:00.004+02:00

My friend and editor introduced me to the VZR Model One headphone during the CanJam Socal 2022. He said "Hey, you should try this headphone out".

Little that I knew it was designed and engineered by a former Apple Computer tech whose specialty is high-fidelity audio. He was the one behind the Apple In-Ear Headphones with Microphone, of which I have two pairs since 2009. After hearing the production version of the VZR Model One, I decided to purchase a set to be used in this article. The out-of-box experience is simply Awesome! It is one of a few headphones that immediately impresses with virtually every album in my digital audio player. Here are my carefully formed thoughts about the VZR Model One.

Initial Impressions

A combination of metal and composites, the VZR Model One showcases a strong balance of aesthetics and performance for $350.00. The Model One has an outer cardboard box protecting the fabric covered hard-shell case. The case contains the headphones, boom mic, headphone cable with integrated control/mic, and accessories.

Most of the gaming headphones I've had the pleasure of using normally feature a hardwired headphone cable terminating into the left or both driver housings. The Model One uses a modular design via 3.5mm mini-jacks in both left and right driver housings (left side features two terminals [TRRRS left-channel and microphone passthrough - right-channel TS input] - view general specifications). This is a welcomed option and yet not at all surprising for an audiophile headphone. I will not be testing the microphone capability as there are quite a few reviews out there outlining the gaming performance of the Model One. The Lavricables Ultimate Line will be used throughout this article to unlock the full potential of the Model One.

The burn-in process should be interesting as I feel the headphone is ready for prime time, thus straight into the review. I will conduct a continuous burn-in of approximately 120-hours using the Fiio M17 set to high-gain. This should be interesting for both burn-in and in-depth listening.

The Key Piece of Technology That Makes This Headphone an Audiophile Performer.

The patented CrossWave Acoustic Lens is the power behind the underlined title. Many of the audiophile qualities of soundstage, timbre, frequency balance, and near neutral tuning are due to this highly engineered piece of audio waveform beaming technology. A customized shape and vented component mounted in front of the driver funnels the audio waveform and beams the phase coherent frequencies to different parts of the outer ear. Simply, the CrossWave Acoustic Lens in the VZR Model One is capable of reproducing audio similar to the Sennheiser HD820 and the Focal Utopia 2020 combined in a package at a fraction of their cost.

EQUIPMENT IN THIS REVIEW

- Fiio M17 (used both as a portable digital audio player and USB DAC Mode)-> VZR Model One with the stock cables utilized. <-> During the main part and conclusion of the article, the Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver in 2.0m headphone cable upgrade. [When the Fiio M17 is used in USB DAC Mode - AudioQuest Pearl USB .5m digital interconnect connected to a Windows 10 Computer]

NOTES: Burn-in didn't take much time as the headphone drivers already had a defined sonic signature. The burn-in was less than 60-hours with an outcome far better than I expected using the included stock cables. Switching to the Lavricables upgrade, there was better treble definition and midrange details present, however, the bass was a little leaner. It is less full in the tonal presentation, but the depth of the bass is greatly improved. All of this audio enjoyment is heard through unbalanced connections.

The Burn-In to Settling Phase Thoughts..

The Fiio M17 was set to high-gain initially, then reduced to medium due to the efficiency of the drivers. Playing music at moderate volume levels, the drivers were thoroughly exercised and ready for prime time reviewing. The entirety of the review will feature the Lavricables Ultimate Line installed on the VZR Model One because there are no plans to review the microphone capabilities.

GENERAL LISTENING

The VZR Model One is touted as an Audiophile Gaming Headphone with a highly spacious three-dimensional soundstage. Pinpoint image accuracy combined with excellent detail retrieval are attributes that are normally associated with upper echelon headphones from Focal, Audeze, and Meze Audio. To have them in a sub $400 dynamic driver closed-back design brings forth great audiophile listening at an affordable price point. Replaceable cables introduce flexibility and customization that is the hallmark of both audiophiles and gamers (yeah, gamers have cable choices though not for audio fidelity, but for aesthetics).

"Gotham Knights"

The soundstage, which normally describes an orchestral or concert performance, can be applied in gaming scenarios due to the stereo mix. The CrossWave Acoustic Lens in the VZR Model One beams specific frequency ranges to the outer ear structure to create the expansive spatial soundscape. This complex shape contours the waveform to deliver a linear and coherent phase alignment to the listener's ears.

The unique design of the CrossWave Acoustic Lens ensures the correct frequencies and their corresponding phase alignment to reach the outer ear. This is where stereo imaging occurs as the contours of the ear guide the collected audio waves into the inner canal. The audio waveform is shaped to create the most organically realistic soundstage with excellent support of the entire frequency range. This level of audio realism is very seldom found in headphones priced under $400. Adding to the audiophile reproduction is the Model One's ability to deliver pinpoint spatial imaging audio effects in "Gotham Knights". This skill of engineering is the reason the Model One is such a great sounding headphone and goes very well with theatrical gaming like the one featured in this section.

"The Flash" (2023 Movie release)

The opening sequence of this film showcases the midrange and bass extension impact of the Model One. Once again, the CrossWave Acoustic Lens shapes and beams the audio waveform to the ear to create a three-dimensional soundscape. Precise placement of the effects, dialog, and music sequences are spot on. Explosions and environmental effects are imaged accurately as though a pair of Focal Nova Utopia loudspeakers are strapped to my ears. The one difference between the aforementioned speakers and the Model One headphone is the soundstage because the latter has it, and the former doesn't (well much of a soundstage).

The theatrical soundstage is expansive in height, width, and depth. There is a 360-degree sound field that is both realistic and engaging. Another note to mention is the lack of phase artifacts such as frequency inversion and pseudo harmonic distortion. During the battle scene with Supergirl, Batman, and both Flash (Prime vs. Alt) against Zod's invasion force, the rapid succession of audio and environmental effects is clearly imaged with the Model One's CrossWave Acoustic Lens. The sonic signature of the VZR Model One ensures the highly dynamic effects are naturally reproduced while preserving the timbre of the music and dialog.

Watching YouTube videos...

General use such as YouTube music videos bring forth sonic characters that are natural in presentation. It is enjoyable and engaging without any form of wearer's fatigue. The sound is pleasurable and energetic with every note and tone delivered fully. There are no real words to describe the audio performance of this headphone other than "Awesome". The closed-back housing virtually isolates the listener from ambient noise, which could lessen the enjoyment. The sensitivity of the drivers means dedicated amplification isn't a requirement. A dedicated head amp may improve certain dynamics, but it is great to know that it isn't required.

Now the headphones are settled in with over 300-hours burned-in.

The Fiio M17 serves as both DAC and DAP, which means only one form of decoding and amplification is used throughout the burn-in and general listening process. The only change are the cables because I am experimenting with the cause and effect of different conductor materials. The Lavricables Ultimate Silver Line terminated in unbalanced 3.5mm stereo mini jack improved a few key characteristics that defines the sonic signature of the Model One. The stock cable is good, but the upgraded cable improves the treble detail while reinforcing the midrange and low-frequency extension.

"Der Ring des Nibelungen" by Richard Wagner (Remastered 2022) conducted by Sir Georg Solti 24/192 DECCA - The orchestral opening showcases the expansive soundstage presented through the VZR Model One headphones. The audio waveform beaming accomplished by the CrossWave Acoustic Lens is an engineering marvel reproducing a soundstage so natural; it feels that I am one with the music. The swell of the orchestra's bass section reverberates throughout the concert hall. There is a depth of the orchestra in the first movement that is reproduced by the Model One's driver and Acoustic Lens design that feels larger than it is. This is further demonstrated in the operatic second movement. The voices of the tenor and sopranos echo both in front and around the listener through the beamed audio waveform.

The rich and fully textured midrange is wonderfully encompassing that there is no denying the truth of this brilliantly conducted Germanic opera. These emotional descriptors are brought forth faithfully by the unique tuning of the VZR Model One headphones. In the first 30-seconds of "Weia! Waga! Woge, du Welle!" (track #2), the two sopranos appear in both front-center and right-set-back of the stage; holographically as though the listener is treated to a private performance of this magnificent opera. Rich overtones complement the music along with the fullness of the tenor and soprano vocals. The clarity of the stage is both airy and transparent without a hint of sibilance, which is atypical for a dynamic closed-back design. The bass notes are deep, expansive, and coherent; qualities that are ideal for a complex German composed opera such as this.

The CrossWave Acoustic Lens from VZR Audio brings life to Wagner's "Der Ring das Nibelungen" with an expansive, 360-degree listening field from a 40-millimeter custom dynamic driver. The full-bodied midrange brings out the multi-textured operatic voices and enhances the orchestra Solti conducts with mesmerizing proficiency. The airiness and transparency is another key feature in the Model One's growing list of attributes that has nothing to do with its gaming nature and more to its audiophile principles.

"Dream of an Opera" 16/44.1 FLAC - This album doesn't require much of an introduction as the music speaks for itself. It showcases the unique qualities of the VZR Model One's CrossWave Acoustic Lens. "Dream of an Opera" is an album featuring both Western and Asian instruments culminating in an orchestral performance that is engaging and spiritual. It features select highlights from famous Chinese Operas. The recording was done in a television studio and was well engineered. The reproduced soundstage is exceptionally expansive, which is not a normal trait in a closed-back housing headphone.

The entrance of "Mulan" is the piece that truly highlights the abilities of the VZR Model One's sound reproduction. The CrossWave Acoustic Lens ensures the final waveform is directed to the ear canal. The Erhu is a two-string instrument that has a distinct timbre that is both beautiful and sensual; traits that are delivered by the Model One's driver design. Treble energy is what defines the air in the piece and is reproduced wonderfully thanks to the CrossWave Acoustic Lens. Midrange and low-frequency reproduction is spot on further highlighting the capabilities of the Model One.

"Jazz Party" by Duke Ellington - 16/44.1 FLAC - Another great album with great staging and imaging of instruments in the studio; pairs nicely with the VZR Model One. The CrossWave Acoustic Lens reproduces the studio presence in ways only possible from a live recording. A headphone that is capable of reproducing these careful and subtle nuances is something of a great thing given the price point. The Model One is a reference class audiophile listening headset virtually mirroring the sonic signature of the Sennheiser HD820 and the Focal Utopia 2020.

"Mallatoba Spank" is the key signature opener of the album with carefully sculpted, high-frequency details combined with a multi-layered midrange further exemplifying the audiophile quality of the Model One. I haven't heard such a great sounding headphone in the $350 price range since the Beyerdynamic DT990 600-ohm. The CrossWave Acoustic Lens conveys the music details with alarming realism. Reiterating that these qualities aren't really heard of in a closed-back headphone at this price point, the VZR Model One reproduces every note, fully without emphasis or attenuation. Having said that, I used the Focal Utopia 2020 for comparison and found the Model One far more enjoyable and less fatiguing than the French company's flagship offering.

This doesn't mean the details were less; there were the same number of intricate details in the music that virtually mirror the German and French companies chosen flagship dynamic headphones. The Model One delivers the music in a way that is natural in presentation and any minor alteration in position around-the-ear doesn't alter the sonic character or phase. The CrossWave Acoustic Lens continues to impress the senses. Focusing on the first track, the crystal-clear highs and supportive low-frequency range assist in delivering a highly coherent midrange that puts the aforementioned German and French dynamic headphone flagships to shame. This is merely an audiophile observation with subjective thoughts and opinions.

Carefully Constructed Thoughts and Opinions...

The VZR Model One is built to bridge the gap between gamers and audiophiles by creating a piece of technology that brings a level of audio realism without requiring a significant monetary investment. The defining characteristics of an audiophile grade system depends on who you ask. My thoughts revolve around how the music resonates with my mood at any given moment. It is this reason I have more than 30-headphones with different exciter technologies. The dynamic type is the most common followed by orthodynamic and then electrostatic. In-ear monitors are another subject in a different article for another time thus, the focus is circumaural type headphones.

The VZR Model One delivers the highest audiophile performance without requiring a considerable investment. The reason for this statement is the fact of its efficiency, which means dedicated amplification isn't a requirement to achieve the highest fidelity. In this article, I discuss and write about this headphone's accomplished performance without dedicated amplification. The Model One's signature technology is an engineered piece mounted on the emitting side of the dynamic driver.

It is this precise level of research and engineering that resulted in a unique shape and placement of ports to allow the specific range of frequencies to beam to the outer ear structure. This section of the ear is responsible for time phase alignment and spatial imaging. These attributes are then amplified through the structure of the ear into the canal where phase and spatial alignment are achieved and thus the resulting audio is experienced. The patented CrossWave Acoustic Lens technology is the reason all of these wonderful sounding traits exist in a closed-back headphone.

The primary appeal of closed-back housing headphones is the wearer's ability to hear more without requiring louder volume settings. A secondary effect/benefit is the ambient noise isolation because a quieter listening environment ensures the wearer the ability to hear more (Gamers included in this assessment). This is important especially when used in combination with an advanced digital signal processor to create 7.1-channels of virtual audio simulation. The CrossWave Acoustic Lens negates the requirement for virtual environments because of the unique method of beaming phase coherent audio waveforms to the outer ear. Since this is a natural process, our ears don't require time to adapt to the sonic signature, which is why I really enjoy the audio performance of this headphone in almost every possible situation.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The VZR Model One delivers a near reference class performance for $350. There are quite a few points to make about the Model One. The key piece of technology that made many of the observations possible is the company's patented CrossWave Acoustic Lens. During the CanJam Socal 2022 event, the engineer that developed the technology stated the custom 40-millimeter driver was the right size to reproduce a proper audio waveform. Combined with their patented Acoustic Lens, the headphone is capable of creating a virtual soundstage similar to a reference stereo system. All of this technology and engineering delivered on the promise of audiophile performance for $350. Let me be clear on this one assessment. Gaming headphones don't really exist. It is a marketing method to push feature rich and sonically great products to the gaming world.

I very rarely recommend a product. When I do, it is because the thoughts and carefully selected opinions lead me to believe it is worth considering a listen. The VZR Model One is a headphone that I highly recommend for the discerning audiophile. Purchasing the Lavricables Ultimate Line upgrade cable elevates the performance to another level coming exceptionally close to reference headphones costing 10-times as much.

Oh! One final thought...

The Lavricables Ultimate Line silver cable upgrade was a necessary evil as I didn't want to continue switching from the stock TRRRS microphone/headphone combo. During the critical listening section, I found the included standard cable to have adequate dynamics. The Lavricables Ultimate Line Silver upgrade elevated the performance to a higher plane of audiophile experience; the treble-to-midrange frequencies were tightly resolved coherently. The standard cable didn't really have good cohesive timbre and tonal elements, which is why I believed the upgrade was necessary. I stated that this is a reference class headphone so long as the silver cable was used. The use of the cable upgrade will drive the price up matching the performance. Some may be fine with the stock cable, but I have a reference class desktop audio rig for headphones connected to my Windows Server thus my opinions in the Final Thoughts section. The upgraded silver cables enhanced the already capable VZR Model One to near Focal Utopia 2020 reference level, which is why I recommended the Lavricables brand.

Some Good Food for Thought.

The Fiio M17 Reference Portable Digital Audio Player priced at $1799

The VZR Model One priced at $350.

The Lavricables Signature Line Silver cable (please note that this is not specific to this brand and model, but it works)

Chpt 1: Audeze LCD-5 - The Beginning

2023-07-25T21:31:00.006+02:00

The Audeze LCD-5 is my dream planar headphone. After hearing it a few times at a friend's home, I desired to own or at the very least, have a pair to conduct a series of reviews. I own the EL-8, LCD-24, i3, CRBN, and the Euclid; all featuring Audeze's house sound, which is full bodied with a rich midrange that is both musical and transparent. Having the LCD-5 in my possession is a privilege and honor therefor I am reviewing it in three chapters.

Behold! The Audeze LCD-5. The Newest Flagship Planar Open-Air Driver Headphone using the latest technology the company has to offer.

The LCD-5 is beautifully made and substantially lighter than the LCD-4 and LCD-24. The weight reduction aids in the comfort, increasing the overall livability of the headphone. The LCD-5 is wonderfully comfortable and doesn't fall off at the slightest tilt and bow of my head. The Audeze LCD-5 headphone driver (link) is one of two components that defines its house sound. The second part is the cable, which is well made and a great match with Audeze's latest flagship planar open-air cans.

New third-party cables have been ordered to further customize the performance of the LCD-5 as previously experienced with the LCD-24 and Euclid. I have ordered both UIT and Lavricables (Signature Line) terminated in four pin XLR for flexible adapter connector options. Those adapter options include a 4.4mm Pentaconn and 6.3mm unbalanced TRS stereo phono jack using Furukawa silver cladding over copper core with a length of 300mm.

In the Beginning, I unboxed the Audeze LCD-5 and was greeted to a custom aluminum hard shell case with the company's logo printed on top. There is no possible way to confuse top from bottom because the latter features four rubber feet to provide a stable platform when opening the case and displaying the beauty of the LCD-5. Enclosed are the headphones, cables, XLR-to-6.3mm phono jack adapter, a pair of cloth gloves, warranty card and booklet in custom foam cushioning cut-outs. Audeze's attention to detail is meticulous. Every nuanced detail in the precise engineering is on display for both the Audeze LCD-5 and CRBN.

From start to finish, the Audeze LCD-5 will be used with three audio systems; Two full solid-state and one hybrid Korg Nu-Tube in a portable digital audio player.

The full solid-state systems are as follows:

- Fiio M17 -> Audeze LCD-5 [high-amplification power portable digital audio player]

= Windows 10 powered computer with Audirvana Studio 2.3.2 -> Sony UDA-1 integrated with DAC Direct Output and DSD256, 32/192 capability utilizing the UIT PMP USB digital interconnect -> Schiit Saga 2018 model with the Octal Liist utilizing the Audience OHNO RCA interconnect with 3.5mm stereo mini-jack adapter -> Little Dot MKI with the Sonic Scientific Oracle-II op-amp module and the TPA6120A stereo headphone amplifier chip -> Audeze LCD-5 with the included stock cable and adapter.

- HYBRID is the Astell & Kern SP2000T configured to operate in solid-state input and Korg Nu-Tube output stage amplification -> Audeze LCD-5.

Burn-in will start with the Fiio M17 in full digital audio player mode and connected to the DC external power supply for additional amplification. After the burn-in and into the settling phase, the Audeze LCD-5 will be connected to my Windows 10 desktop rig for both music and general listening pleasure. Gaming and viewing video content will also occur thus utilizing the headphone in a variety of scenarios. The A&K SP2kT will serve as my portable listening rig as the Fiio M17 is quite unwieldy to carry around when conducting on-the-go sessions. The SP2kT features a unique application of a pair of triode fluorescent vacuum tubes in a balanced sealed module designed to have a life expectancy of 30000-hours continuous.

Why the Beginning?

Audeze provided the LCD-5 for long-term review as requested. I am purchasing this pair because I must have this in my permanent collection for the entirety of my life and my next generation. With the exception of the LCD-X, which was given to me and then to a dear friend, I am keeping the other Audeze items listed in this article because of their value utilizing them in future reviews. Audeze has remained consistent with their products, delivering their house sound and offering unparalleled reference performance. The LCD-5 is the latest statement in the continued development of their planar magnetic driver technology, which is why I chose to research, experiment, and produce this series of reviews.

Initial listening impressions of the LCD-5 is overwhelming. It surpasses my expectations of what a new and fresh headphone sounds like. I wasn't expecting such an impressive performance out of the box. Having said, that when compared to the LCD-24, I knew that a burn-in will open up the sound of the LCD-5 to unparalleled dimensional performance. Based on experience, the typical burn-in of headphones depends on the suspension of the drivers and can range from 60 to 600-hours. I will know more in the coming days and weeks (prepared and written in early February 2023; it is now June 2023) as the burn-in progresses. A listening assessment will be conducted with the first round of thoughts and opinions to be debated with my friend and editor.

June 2023

How does it sound after having the Audeze LCD-5 since mid-February 2023?

The Audeze LCD-5 has an expansive soundstage that seems quite natural in presentation. There is precise imaging of vocals, instruments, and sounds that aren't compressed or emphasized in any way, shape or form. The natural progression of the treble, midrange, and bass notes suggest careful tuning of the planar drivers were performed to match the Audeze house sound. The mids are especially sweet as the bulk of the enjoyment is in the midrange. Audeze's house sound is a full bodied midrange with supportive bass and delicately extended treble energy delivered with eerie precision and airy transparency.

Comparing the LCD-5 to the previous flagship, the LCD-4, it has 1/3rd less mass thus ensuring long-term comfort and less listener fatigue. In this case, I have worn the LCD-5 for 20+ hours and haven't put them down for any form of rest; in fact I don't feel them on my head and around my ears. The Audeze LCD-5 is by far the most entertaining piece of gear in my possession and hopefully one day, it will be in my permanent collection.

After the review, will you keep or purchase the Audeze LCD-5?

I think I just answered that question in the previous paragraph. The simple truth is I have always desired or needed the best headphone possible within budget. I requested the Audeze LCD-5 for review to thoroughly audition the headphone before committing this example to my permanent collection.

I can acquire other brands that may have a similar sonic profile for a lower price point, however, it wouldn't showcase the ingenuity of the Audeze brand and its house sound. Monoprice has a few planar headphone offerings, but they don't have a singular sonic signature. Audeze is consistent and unwavering in its continued pursuit of creating a power house of planar audio products. Reinforcing the previous question's answer, I am keeping this headphone in my permanent collection.

Any final thoughts for the first installment?

Audeze LCD-5 "The Beginning" is the first chapter of three highlighting the journey from initial listening impressions to critical audio observations. Audeze is a master craftsman in the technology of planar magnetic driven diaphragms. It is the continued tradition and advancements that created the LCD-5. The precise tuning of the planar magnetic drivers defines the Audeze sonic signature.

Full-bodied and rich without exaggeration, the detailed and textured midrange is one of the defining attributes of the Audeze house sound. The LCD-5's other frequency ranges creates an exceptionally expansive, airy, and transparent soundstage. The bass notes are solid, impactful, and deeply extended. It is a true beginning because the LCD-5 is my first Audeze flagship that I wanted since the first audition at a friend's home a few years back. It is also the company's ultimate planar magnetic driver product that raises the bar in the audiophile world.

Stay Tuned for Chapter Two

The Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 NOIRE - I Like This Headphone!

2023-03-30T20:37:00.000+02:00

One word.

Excellent!

Behold..

The Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Noire.

A gift from a friend who was not in attendance at the Los Angeles Orange County Audio Society Gala 2022; this is my first experience with Dan Clark Audio products and it won't be the last. It is simply an elegantly designed and engineered closed-back planar magnetic headphone for under $1000. The A2N isn't just great looking, it has the audiophile performance rivaling HiFiMan and Audeze. The soundstage is very expansive and the tonality of the tuned drivers showcases its musicality versus just highly resolving notes (just highly resolving = morgue like sound bordering on the absence of vitality).

Initial Impressions

Seeing a small box upon opening the package got me thinking, "is this a full-sized headphone or not". Unzipping the headphone case revealed the elegantly compact AEON 2 Noire planar closed-back. The hard-shell case is specifically designed to accommodate the folding mechanism of the headphones, which is an ingenious implementation of innovative engineering. Included are sound filters, which alters the frequency characteristics of the headphone to tailor the audio profile. The filters provide a level of custom audio tuning that is unique to the brand and elevates the listening experience close to their reference line, the DCA Stealth. Circling back to the AEON 2 Noire, it is a supremely elegant headphone utilizing carbon composites in its construction and titanium-nickel for the support structure.

The out-of-the-box listening experience is beyond my expectations. It is smooth, clean, transparent, and enjoyable without fatigue of any kind. One would think a 13-ohm impedance would be easy to drive. That is not the case. The DCA A2N requires sufficient amplification from a desktop head amp. A portable digital audio player may be able to drive the A2N, but only in the highest gain setting. The ambient noise isolation is pretty good. It all but guarantees nothing outside of the headphone housings will disturb the listener and vice versa. I may have to purchase an additional unit for my wife. She isn't an audiophile, however, she does appreciate good sound.

Here is the equipment used in this article.

- Fiio M17 -> Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Noire

- Windows 10 Pro desktop system -> AudioQuest Pearl USB interconnect with adapter -> Fiio M17 -> Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Noire

NOTES: the Fiio M17 utilizes the THX AAA-788+ balanced amplification stage so it has more than enough power to drive the AEON 2 Noire. It is worth noting that during the burn-in stage, the Fiio M17 will be connected to the DC power supply for better operating stability and long-term power delivery. After the burn-in, the final listening sessions will be conducted on battery power.

The Burn-in to Settling Phase reached..

Settling phase reached on January 18th, 2023 at 12:30PM; just over 150+hours of continuous operation. From the moment I received the A2N (Short for AEON 2 Noire), the headphone had an audio signal running through continuously till today. The sound is much better than the initial listening impression; exhibiting tighter frequency control, a liquid mid-range and better instrument placement in the soundstage.

Using the A2N as a general listening headphone, I found the perception of surround sound to be quite good. Spatial imaging of dialog and sound effects surpasses a few gaming headsets. The A2N is nothing short of excellent in this form of audio performance. There is enough audio information to use the A2N as a general all-around headphone.

The Settling Phase is my definition of driver stability where the headphone's mechanical diaphragm suspension has reached the point of dynamic flexibility. Since the acquisition of the A2N, I have operated this headphone continuously for more than 150+ hours sampling every 12-24 hours to monitor the burn-in progress. The settling phase was reached around the 156-hour mark where the drivers are just perfect in the audio reproduction dept. During the initial listening impressions, the A2N was shaping up to be a great listening experience with a slight reduction in the treble and midrange. Listening on and off between burn-in cycles revealed the potential of the planar headphone as the mids were sweetening up to the transition into the highs. It was a refined sound with a smoothness similar to my old Sennheiser Orpheus.

I really love the sound of the AEON 2 Noire.

Dream of an Opera - FLAC 16/44.1 - Fiio M17 - The A2N reproduces the fine details of this album in an elegant and smooth fashion. The mids and highs are silky with the bass being both supportive and refined. There isn't any bloat in any one frequency range; it is simply full and vibrant with a hint of edge just to keep things interesting. Transparent and smooth are the general characteristics of this wonderful sounding closed-back planar headphone. All ten tracks demonstrate the three-dimensional sonic reproduction by the A2N. There is depth, width and height of the orchestra along with the recording environment being reproduced precisely if not organically.

Track 2 - "Mulan" showcases the detail retrieval of the A2N. Smooth, transparent, and three-dimensional; attributes detailing how resolving the Dan Clark AEON 2 Noire performs. Each instrument is detailed and isolated in the soundstage. The synergy of Western and Eastern influences shape the sound of the track; the A2N reproduces not only the intricate notes on this album, but the spirit as well. It is the transparency of the headphone that translates to this level of performance along with finely designed and tuned planar drivers. I dare say the A2N nearly reproduces the spirit and musical energy perfectly; weighted opinions that I rarely express with any audio component, loudspeaker or headphone.

"Holst: The Planets" Buzz Ensemble and Melanie Barney - Qobuz 24/96 - Windows 10 via Audirvana Studio 2.2.3.0 -> Fiio M17 - The smooth and transparent character of the AEON 2 Noire is wonderfully pleasant. The Buzz Ensemble complements the pipe organ played by Melanie Barney beautifully. The clean and well-rounded organ notes echoes throughout Montreal's Saint-Viateur d'Outremont Church, which showcases the resolving ability of the A2N. The synergy of the Buzz Brass and Melanie Barney's Organ playing is performed melodiously. There is a slight edge to the brass that highlights the AEON 2 Noire's resolution where the tuning of the drivers/housing preserved the transparency while delivering a smooth presentation.

The first track, "Mars: The Bringer of War" showcases the synergy of the Buzz Ensemble and Barney's masterful performance on the Pipe Organ, faithfully reproduced by the Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Noire. The unique transparent sound of these headphones outline the performance of the first track with eerie precision. The primary notes are engaging while the secondary overtones engulf the listener, which the A2N does in a melodious fashion. The closest loudspeaker system comparison I can make (equipment in my collection) that virtually matches the AEON 2 Noire would be my Marten Miles 5 with the EAR 912 and 890.

I purchased the album after the writing of this segment.

"Hatsukoi" Utada Hikaru - Qobuz 24/48 -> Audirvana Studio 2.2.3.0 -> Fiio M17 - This is one of two hit singles published by performer, songwriter, and producer Utada Hikaru. The title translates from Japanese to English as First Love, which coincidentally is the other hit single back in 1999 by the same artist. The A2N again showcases the smoothness, transparency and spacious soundstage of the recording. The instruments have the right amount of edge and dynamics where it was enjoyable and engaging. There isn't any distinct form of sibilance nor bass bloat in this track, depicting precise driver control and tuning from Dan Clark Audio. I am amazed I haven't stumbled upon or thoroughly listened to the DCA's planar product line-up.

Now! You have my complete attention.

"Ecophony Rinne" 1st track - 16/48 FLAC -> Fiio M17 - This singular track tests the absolute limits of the A2N. What I mean is the limits of my hearing as this track tests the spacious soundstage, imaging, and dynamic range of the planar drivers. The bass impacts are strong, dynamic and full bodied as it reverberates in and around the soundstage. The first track and subsequently the entire album is purely synthesized using voice and instrument samples programmed into MIDI I/O tracks. The arrangement delivers an overlay of synthesized instruments and vocals moving dynamically throughout the soundstage. It is an eerie sensation hearing a highly airy and spacious three-dimensional recording in a closed-back sub $1000 planar magnetic headphone. The AEON 2 Noire will not disappoint as every detailed nuance, edge, sizzle and melody are heard with unwavering accuracy.

An Additional Burn-in of 120-hours for the Lavricables Upgrade - Three Months Later March 2023

This was worth the wait as the high-purity silver cable upgrade is finally here and fully burned-in. I purchased the Lavricables Ultimate Line terminated with a 3.5mm stereo unbalanced mini-jack and burned-in the cable with the Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Noire. Given the laid back soundstage of the headphone, I ordered the all silver conductor cable to bring the stage closer. Upon first listen, the stage has been brought closer with clearly defined details that weren't present with the stock cable.

Using the same four albums from the previous sections, there are better dynamics, imaging and musicality. Lavricables truly brings out the best qualities of the A2N without introducing negatives in the sonic signature. String instruments have detailed and refined textures that weren’t apparent with the stock cable. It is simply amazing to bring out better definition of audio details without requiring a significant monetary investment. The amplification stage of the Fiio M17, combined with the Lavricables upgrade elevates the A2N's performance virtually matching the Meze Audio LIRIC. Cables play a key part in the overall performance and in this case, it is a beneficial enhancement to an elegantly sophisticated headphone.

Final Thoughts

The Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Noire is by far the most fun sounding headphone in my collection. It is the best value as the audio performance surpasses many budget planar headphones (Sony MDR-Z7 is the closest match in performance). The Lavricables upgrade is purely an indulgence as I desired to explore the outer limits of Dan Clark's engineering without requiring a second mortgage. A shout out to Dan Clark for providing the AEON 2 Noire for the LAOCAS 2022 Gala.

I rarely recommend any form of audio gear unless it is exceptional. The Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Noire is worth mentioning as it will not disappoint the discerning or casual listener. Obtaining near reference class performance for under $1000, the A2N is a solid performer and beyond. Opinions aside, the A2N should satisfy every listener's desires. I have enjoyed the performance of this headphone thus I have added it to my growing collection of gear.

I plan to follow up with a comparative review article soon. Please check out the Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Noire and give it a careful listen. It is one of the best sounding and most comfortable headphones for under $1000. It is worth it.

Some Good Food for Thought.