Having the two hosts pointing towards each other with their face feels so nice from a flow perspective, actually feels like y’all are having a conversation with each other instead of just talking to a camera.
I think they have a bias towards boutique American brands like ZMF, DCA, and Abyss. The latter is the best snake-oil salesman in the industry. But they're fine with that kind of stuff
Guys..take all of this with a HUGE grain of salt. Preferences between these two have more to do with their perceived ranking than anything else. Shape of head, comfort, pads, amps...all of these factors change depending on the gear or the person using it. Also...one major factor is taste. Some people prefer less peaky, more mid bass, others the oposit... also one important thing to consider EQ goes a long way. Just rush to see other reviews of some of the headphones listed here...and you will see that they all differ somewhat.
Thanks for doing this. Quite revealing, especially when you include price as a consideration. I only wish you could have included the Aune SR7000. Hopefully one or both of you will review that one soon.
I've had it for about a month now and it's very well tuned. As soon as I put on a random well recorded video or podcast I noticed that there wasn't much that deviated form what I consider "neutral" sounding - that's a good sign. The midsbass Is a bit bloaty just like all the Fostex/Denon/EMU headphones but it's easy to fix with EQ. The treble? it has a bump somewhere around 5-6k like Resolve said and that can be pinpointed rather easily as well. Overall it sounds very good and surprisingly open for a closed back. With a few filters it sounds pretty much spot on I would say.
Just when I was about to pull the trigger on a MDR-Z1r as a sidegrade (to my Arya Stealth, Focal Clear MG, Celestee), this comes out and claims a $150-200 Fiio sounds better than a headphone 10 times the price...
Was so hoping you guys would have gotten a chance to review or evaluate the new Adam Audio H200 closed backs. You know, for my buyer's confirmation bias when I chose them for studio tracking and rough mixing double duty over the AKG K371 after only demoing the AKGs in person first. Justin Colletti at SonicScoop likes them as being his most neutral closed backs for mixing if you are not able to use open backs.
take the words they said as wind...it's just their opinion. I'm a sound enginner, and there are too much factors to consider to give an honest opinion.
i highly highly recommend the ether cx over the aeon closed x/aeon rt, I'm surprised ether cx is not mentioned on the list. its incredibly smooth/non-peaky in its extension compared to the aeon models, and you can hear the benefits of this in its detail/resolution retrieval, and it doesn't have the inherent pad/channel-balance issues of all the aeon models. it only needs a very simple low and high shelf filter to sound perfect, no need for complex eqing to address any narrow peaks/dips
Did any of the Shures really catch on besides the 440? I had the 840 and 940 and couldn't get on with their tuning, the 840 was like a V shape with all the sub bass surgically removed, and the 940 was actually pretty good and much more balanced but had a massive treble spike. Never had the urge to check out their lineup again.
I’m missing the OG Shure SR840, I like it as much as the M50X, but it’s huge, I look like Doc Brown wearing it, it’s not as comfortable as the M50x. I have heard that the Sony CD900st and fhe Shure 840 were made by the same engineer and sound the same, although obviously built differently, can anyone confirm?
i own a meze 99neo and while it has been reviewed extremely poorly, i enjoy it so much more that many other headphones i have owned and tried, open or closed 😭
regardless of what objective results measurements can give us, our own preferences dictate what we should or shouldn't to. Bananas are the most boring fruit for me, yet I'm not going to tell others to not eat them. take all reviews with a grain of salt, enjoy the entertainment and the gear we might not have heard of. I have 880s and 770s and a 58x, for example, and I enjoy both. Highs will bother me faster depending on albums or tracks than any can I've heard so far. And yet, they hate most beyers. and ps, I could still hear up to 18.5k till a couple of years ago.
I have the E3 and Arya Organic, so I bought FT1 due to the hype and it's unbelievable how good the bass is. Destroys my E3 and Arya in bass quality and quantity, bass is closest thing to speakers I've heard. With a bit of eq, I prefer it over the E3 too, but still love my Arya for its massive soundstage and sparkle. Also super comfortable for 5+ hours easily.
I compared them, also threw the DT 770 Pro X LE into the mix. And I also preferred the DT 770 Pro (80 Ohms) over both Pro X models. Even over the K-361. But I heard that there might be quite some unit variation with Beyerdynamics. Maybe I was just lucky with my DT 770 Pro X.
@@VeitLehmann Tunning of the DT 700 pro is better than the DT770 imo, but the DT 700 Pro uses a thick felt piece in front of the driver which does blunt the sound somewhat.
I've seen both of y'all talk about replacing the pads on the FT1.... What pads would you recommend? I love my FT1s, but for me the pads are just a touch shallow.
I am struggle to get a ZMF Brokeh Closed ... does it mean it is not as good as those two DCA models? or even FT1? Does the ranking include price performance ratio? Brokeh could be over-priced but I like rock (not metal) music a lot, and would like to get a closed back with the best bass and good vocal performance, would Brokeh still be worth to consider?
Looking for a good sounding vocal tracking closed back, would the FT1 be good? How's the leakage? Any other good sounding+isolating recommendations? @TheHEADPHONEShow
Compared to other internet opinions, you guys always rate Beyerdynamic less positive. Is it just a love it or hate it treble equation. As they are known for their treble "signature". DT 770 pro limited edition, with the different driver, wasn't included. Any thoughts?
I compared all three: DT 770 Pro 80 Ohms, DT 700 Pro X, and DT 770 Pro X LE. The Pro X models are considerably louder/easier to drive. But they have a less balanced bass and treble. Bass on the Pro X models has strong sub bass (very strong on the DT 770 Pro X LE), and some dip in the upper bass. The DT 700 Pro X is a less aggressive in the treble response, almost veiled in comparison. The DT 770 Pro X LE, at least my unit, was very V-shaped, with recessed mids and more aggressive treble compared to the DT 770 Pro. The DT 770 Pro was the most balanced, only the mids were slightly cleaner to my ears on the DT 700 Pro X.
@VeitLehmann Thanks for your elaborate reply! Appreciate it. I have multiple Sennheiser and Hifiman headphones, and I'm purposely looking for something different in my next headphone. Would you recommend the LE or skip Beyerdynamic all together? Only considering the once with detachable cable.
I've owned 3 Aeons of different variants. They all had channel imbalances and Dan Clark Audio refuses to fix it without an exorbitant fee. Even when new.
That was interesting. Resolve knows his headphones but not ANC ones (XM5 lover here). I found the Fiio FT1 ranking interesting. Did not consider it before. I currently have the Focal Elegia and Sony XM5 as closed backs. I think I'll add the Fiio to my collection. Happy holidays and great work in 2024.
Is it possible to create a list of the headphones that most accept EQ adjustment and classification based on the significant change in sound when changing the EQ, and that the quality remains good if you raise the middle or BASS, for example, and it does not become bad?
Cool video gentleman! Focal Azurys ?? Heard these at CanJam SoCal briefly, sound was weird, thick congested awkward? For me “C” E3 refined good. Haven’t heard the Aeon drop- good to hear it’s good. Heard the og aeon closed, and it had failing cup reflections. Have you guys heard the Aune SR 7000 ? I picked these up from the iiwi review. These seem very good for $. The vocals are odd till they break in, but seem fairly linear from pretty low to my not so high hearing limits, warm side of neutral. I heard the FT1 and liked it, not offensive, competent excellent value, hit like an hd650 vibe for me with better bass, not exceptional resolution.
We (ZMF) have asked many times not to be reviewed or included in these videos due to the implicit bias at play with a retail (sales) funded headphone review channel. Not saying that is or isn't present here, but I do wish we were left completely out of this, and I believe resolve only has heard most of our headphones only at shows and has not used the tuning kits or alternate pads for most of them. It'd be nice to have more context for the audience when these blanket statements are made.
@@zach915m I actually discovered ZMF through a review channel (Passion for Sound), that’s what led me to the Atrium Closed. Possibly the best purchase I’ve made since entering the Audiophile world.
I own both the Atrium Closed (hey Zach👋) and the MDR-Z1R and I can comfortably state that _both_ are S-tier after hearing ~80% of the high-end closed backs on this list. Sure, the Z1R may not have the last word on technicalities, but as a complete package, it’s hard to beat. Atrium Closed is in the same boat, just cranked to 11. It’s all so subjective, though, as everyone’s HRTF is different. I don’t hear zingy treble in the Z1R for whatever reason, but the HD 800 S was too much for me.🤷 People need to remember that these lists are for entertainment purposes only.
I hope you guys can review the upcoming Kaldas Research Inox, it's not every day you'll see an estat closedback on the market. And widely speaking i'd like to see more estat coverage in the channel. 🙏
Dude look how they rate Japanese headphones. Every reviewer has a bias these guys like a certain sound that Japanese headphones don’t really conform to. In my opinion they like a dead cold sound
I just bought it for my dad and I opened it, tried it, looked up EQs for it. At first I wasn't impressed but one EQ made all the difference: Unheardlab's. It's actually insanely good, and weirdly, the simplest of all the EQs I tried. I just gotta install Peace on his laptop and import the EQ.
I think shure srh1540 should at least B, probably A compared to the rest of the list. It has more midbass than usual but not bad. It's good bass and rest of the frequency response is exceptional.
Nah I have the Celeste and the Stella no way the Stella’s are under the Celeste, that just goes to show you that you determine if your headphones are good or not, not RUclips audiophiles
@@DuranInternational I mean some of the takes here are outrageously bad like putting Azurys over Stella, Radience and Celestee is just mind-blowing to me. Like that is just so wrong on so many levels.
I still love my eq'd Denon d5200 and I prefer them a little bit over the FT1. Yeah, maybe the bass is not as good as in FT1's (it's terrible, actually) but the treble in them is just magical, every high midrange - treble instrument is very textured, detailed and has a good sense of presence. I have never tried the d9200, but from the graphs I've seen on the internet, d5200 should be a little more interesting and a little less wonky
I've owned 5200 and then switched to 9200 - last better in all possible ways. It hac more resolution, separetion, bass has more impact and textures. No regrets selling 5200 and getting 9200
The new Kiwi Ears Division was hyped by another reviewer, would like to have your take on it. It's really very cheap so if it's decent it's already a good buy.
Always puzzled when reviewers refer to the Focal Radiance as being “bassy”. I bought one based on such reviews and my copy is so anemic. Wonder if I got a faulty unit.
they had pad issues, maybe yours are thinner and decrease bass, one of the reasons i try to avoid radiance/focal if possible, the only one i kept is the celestee.
I just got the Senn 620S, glad they made it to B tier. I got them for sound isolation even with the 822 headphones Rtings tested, it’s rated best for it too.
DCA E3 most overrated thing I've ever purchased in my life. I am a music producer and audio engineer, and these are not "fun" nor are they really "revealing" or "critical" like so many audiophiles and reviewers claimed. It made me realize my ears and brain are sensitive to much different things than most audiophiles. I also found them HIGHLY uncomfortable, the pads never fit quite right, the top headband sucks and hurts my head (why is there hard embroidery being pushed onto my skull??), and they are nearly 500g or something similar, making me not want to wear them all day while working, listening to music or gaming.
Glad to see the FIIOs in A Tier thinking their design choices will take the coveted spot in S Tier. Wow I have seen DCA at former Circuit Citys and older electronics store maybe Frys Electronics having DCA closed backs available to listen too but never cave in to learn that their the GOAT in the making. Im blown away that even the FT-1 couldnt compete because of the treble performance and cheap built although their cups are offered in American Walnut and also featuring an expanded 60mm drivers. Anyways the DCA E3 at $2000 is a splurge that i never knew was that Bugatti or Koenigsegg Hyper Car type experience that impresses and delivers
It would be great if these lists would include more “consumer products”(for lack of better wording) that allow also some kind of wired mode (Maxwell, Bathys,…) and the reason for these placements. In my opinion it makes the tier list more accessible for the average Joe.
Where would you put focal elegia guys because they didn't make it I had a pleasure to compare them with Celestee and I think they are better than them.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Sony MDR Z7 Mark II: 1:50
Denon AHD 9200: 2:21
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro: 3:49
Rode NTH-100: 3:57
Audeze LCD-2 Closed: 4:11
Audeze LCD-X Closed: 4:16
AKG K361 and K371: 4:38
Dan Clark Audio Aeon X Closed: 5:30
Dan Clark Audio Aeon Noir X: 6:15
Sony MDR Z1R: 7:35
Hifiman R9 and R10: 8:02
Meze 99 Classics: 9:12
Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X: 9:28
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro: 10:45
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: 11:39
Sennheiser HD 569: 11:44
Sennheiser HD 820: 12:24
Sennheiser HD 620s: 11:59
Hifiman Sundara Closed: 12:50
Focal Stellia: 13:04
Focal Celestee: 13:26
Focal Radiance: 13:37
DCA Stealth: 13:52
ZMF Atrium Closed: 14:29
ZMF Caldera Closed: 14:40
ZMF Verite Closed: 15:12
ZMF Auteur Closed: 15:59
Fostex TH610: 16:05
Audio-Technica W2022: 16:20
Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro: 17:26
Fostex TH900: 17:57
Focal Utopia: 18:31
DCA E3: 19:21
FT1: 19:53
Timestamps were generated using AI. I did not verify these times but they should be close.
My hero
Thank you!
Not sure if you're looking to edit the list, but 18:31 is Focal Azurys, not Utopia
you are the best
14:02 Hifiman Isvarna
Waiting for a full size video on this one, seems like an interesting can.
Having the two hosts pointing towards each other with their face feels so nice from a flow perspective, actually feels like y’all are having a conversation with each other instead of just talking to a camera.
Please do an open back tier list, I've been waiting for an update since the big headphone tier list video.
They said in a live podcast or a video that they think the list is still up to date because the releases this year are mostly not that good.
@@colorrr34 the Tungsten isn't even there, I don't think the Sierra is either, 490 pro isn't there, hifiman unveileds aren't there.
And i want one that considers pad swaps and eq and comfort
@@JohnnyADi they're not going to make a tier list with headphones that they don't sell...
I think they have a bias towards boutique American brands like ZMF, DCA, and Abyss. The latter is the best snake-oil salesman in the industry. But they're fine with that kind of stuff
Resolve please tell us what pads you use for the Fiio FT1?
#rez
Guys..take all of this with a HUGE grain of salt. Preferences between these two have more to do with their perceived ranking than anything else. Shape of head, comfort, pads, amps...all of these factors change depending on the gear or the person using it. Also...one major factor is taste. Some people prefer less peaky, more mid bass, others the oposit... also one important thing to consider EQ goes a long way. Just rush to see other reviews of some of the headphones listed here...and you will see that they all differ somewhat.
Aune SR700?
Thanks for doing this. Quite revealing, especially when you include price as a consideration. I only wish you could have included the Aune SR7000. Hopefully one or both of you will review that one soon.
It's crazy how the FT -1 is such great value while making it to the A tier!
I've had it for about a month now and it's very well tuned. As soon as I put on a random well recorded video or podcast I noticed that there wasn't much that deviated form what I consider "neutral" sounding - that's a good sign. The midsbass Is a bit bloaty just like all the Fostex/Denon/EMU headphones but it's easy to fix with EQ.
The treble? it has a bump somewhere around 5-6k like Resolve said and that can be pinpointed rather easily as well.
Overall it sounds very good and surprisingly open for a closed back. With a few filters it sounds pretty much spot on I would say.
Just when I was about to pull the trigger on a MDR-Z1r as a sidegrade (to my Arya Stealth, Focal Clear MG, Celestee), this comes out and claims a $150-200 Fiio sounds better than a headphone 10 times the price...
@@energiam880I own both, and the Z1R still takes the crown (not surprisingly), but boy is the FT1 a great value.
@@Ca11mero It's neutral? I heard it has a warm V-shaped sound, which is why I'm planning on buying it... So, it doesn't?
@vijeykumar7429 ahh yes, another v shaped headphone to add to what im guessing is a mountain of others collecting dust. I agree. MUST OWN!!!!!!!!!!!!
Was so hoping you guys would have gotten a chance to review or evaluate the new Adam Audio H200 closed backs. You know, for my buyer's confirmation bias when I chose them for studio tracking and rough mixing double duty over the AKG K371 after only demoing the AKGs in person first.
Justin Colletti at SonicScoop likes them as being his most neutral closed backs for mixing if you are not able to use open backs.
Aww I love my MDR-Z1R for techno. What other thoughts did you guys have about it besides build quality and the treble?
take the words they said as wind...it's just their opinion. I'm a sound enginner, and there are too much factors to consider to give an honest opinion.
Always a fun watch! Hurts to see Sony Z1R in the middle though. Still one of my favorites! And what happened to ZMF's beautiful Bokeh?!
honestly surprised it's so high. But with EQ it is an epic headphone. One of my favorites if not my favorite.
i highly highly recommend the ether cx over the aeon closed x/aeon rt, I'm surprised ether cx is not mentioned on the list. its incredibly smooth/non-peaky in its extension compared to the aeon models, and you can hear the benefits of this in its detail/resolution retrieval, and it doesn't have the inherent pad/channel-balance issues of all the aeon models. it only needs a very simple low and high shelf filter to sound perfect, no need for complex eqing to address any narrow peaks/dips
That basically skipped over all the closed back headphones I own
What about:
akg k553,
Shure srh840 or basically all of Shure
Hifi/drop r7dx
?
Did any of the Shures really catch on besides the 440?
I had the 840 and 940 and couldn't get on with their tuning, the 840 was like a V shape with all the sub bass surgically removed, and the 940 was actually pretty good and much more balanced but had a massive treble spike. Never had the urge to check out their lineup again.
I preferred the K553 MKII over the FT1. The last one was really good, but it had a kind of "commercial sound" that I didn´t enjoy that much.
Fiio FT-1 in A-tier. Guess I'll have to try it!
Just remember it have a Sharp peak in 15Khz! I am treble sensitive, but it you are not then go ahead
I’m missing the OG Shure SR840, I like it as much as the M50X, but it’s huge, I look like Doc Brown wearing it, it’s not as comfortable as the M50x.
I have heard that the Sony CD900st and fhe Shure 840 were made by the same engineer and sound the same, although obviously built differently, can anyone confirm?
Yeap, I guess you'll HAVE TO!!!!!!!!!! Gotta keep that collection going
Comfort/Pads are really the only things slightly bothering me with the FT1. Any Pad-Proposals? Cheers
Bought the Denon 7200 and LCD 2 Closed and I love them. Sold the AKG K371, sounded terrible...
Add emu teak to the list? Also like many said, ft1 pad recommendations?
Great list! Would love to know your thoughts on the Aune SR7000
i own a meze 99neo and while it has been reviewed extremely poorly, i enjoy it so much more that many other headphones i have owned and tried, open or closed 😭
regardless of what objective results measurements can give us, our own preferences dictate what we should or shouldn't to.
Bananas are the most boring fruit for me, yet I'm not going to tell others to not eat them.
take all reviews with a grain of salt, enjoy the entertainment and the gear we might not have heard of.
I have 880s and 770s and a 58x, for example, and I enjoy both. Highs will bother me faster depending on albums or tracks than any can I've heard so far. And yet, they hate most beyers. and ps, I could still hear up to 18.5k till a couple of years ago.
good for you then! reviews are simply just another guy's perspective, use what works for you
You just live playing in the mud
I have the E3 and Arya Organic, so I bought FT1 due to the hype and it's unbelievable how good the bass is. Destroys my E3 and Arya in bass quality and quantity, bass is closest thing to speakers I've heard. With a bit of eq, I prefer it over the E3 too, but still love my Arya for its massive soundstage and sparkle. Also super comfortable for 5+ hours easily.
Did I understand this correctly now? You like the dt 770 more than the dt 700? I always thought you saw the 700 as a significant improvement...
That's why you shouldn't consider reviews, because everyone has a opnion
A headphone they love maybe is a headphone you hate
I compared them, also threw the DT 770 Pro X LE into the mix. And I also preferred the DT 770 Pro (80 Ohms) over both Pro X models. Even over the K-361. But I heard that there might be quite some unit variation with Beyerdynamics. Maybe I was just lucky with my DT 770 Pro X.
@@VeitLehmann Tunning of the DT 700 pro is better than the DT770 imo, but the DT 700 Pro uses a thick felt piece in front of the driver which does blunt the sound somewhat.
I've seen both of y'all talk about replacing the pads on the FT1.... What pads would you recommend? I love my FT1s, but for me the pads are just a touch shallow.
I am struggle to get a ZMF Brokeh Closed ... does it mean it is not as good as those two DCA models? or even FT1? Does the ranking include price performance ratio? Brokeh could be over-priced but I like rock (not metal) music a lot, and would like to get a closed back with the best bass and good vocal performance, would Brokeh still be worth to consider?
Missing the Shure SRH840A. Would be interesting where it would have been sorted.
What pads do you use on ft1 resolve
Looking for a good sounding vocal tracking closed back, would the FT1 be good? How's the leakage? Any other good sounding+isolating recommendations? @TheHEADPHONEShow
Compared to other internet opinions, you guys always rate Beyerdynamic less positive. Is it just a love it or hate it treble equation. As they are known for their treble "signature". DT 770 pro limited edition, with the different driver, wasn't included. Any thoughts?
I compared all three: DT 770 Pro 80 Ohms, DT 700 Pro X, and DT 770 Pro X LE. The Pro X models are considerably louder/easier to drive. But they have a less balanced bass and treble. Bass on the Pro X models has strong sub bass (very strong on the DT 770 Pro X LE), and some dip in the upper bass. The DT 700 Pro X is a less aggressive in the treble response, almost veiled in comparison. The DT 770 Pro X LE, at least my unit, was very V-shaped, with recessed mids and more aggressive treble compared to the DT 770 Pro. The DT 770 Pro was the most balanced, only the mids were slightly cleaner to my ears on the DT 700 Pro X.
I loved my beyer until I got my sundara. Now the beyer sound like tin cans on my ears.
@VeitLehmann Thanks for your elaborate reply! Appreciate it. I have multiple Sennheiser and Hifiman headphones, and I'm purposely looking for something different in my next headphone. Would you recommend the LE or skip Beyerdynamic all together? Only considering the once with detachable cable.
@@DhrROMC Just skip Beyerdynamic all together. You are not missing out on anything.
How do you morally justify that mustache?
dude lost a bet maybe?
High f low d.
Free will
We need to get mustaches back in style
by growing more.
I've owned 3 Aeons of different variants. They all had channel imbalances and Dan Clark Audio refuses to fix it without an exorbitant fee. Even when new.
That was interesting. Resolve knows his headphones but not ANC ones (XM5 lover here). I found the Fiio FT1 ranking interesting. Did not consider it before. I currently have the Focal Elegia and Sony XM5 as closed backs. I think I'll add the Fiio to my collection. Happy holidays and great work in 2024.
No audeze maxwell?
Probably because it's wireless but it's still a good closed back.
Wireless. It probably ranks in mid C tier IMO.
no Elegia either
@@Nokamigg If LCD2 closed is in D, Maxwell would be in F though
@FabioGrenkh spicy take 🌶️
Are you going to do an open back tier list? I’d like that.
No mention of the Focal Lensys? Those have been out for some weeks by now. Curious where those would land
Which one is the best for soundstage?
Is it possible to create a list of the headphones that most accept EQ adjustment and classification based on the significant change in sound when changing the EQ, and that the quality remains good if you raise the middle or BASS, for example, and it does not become bad?
What about the AUNE SR7000?
I am wearing one right now and was excited to hear about it, but it was not there sadly. Maybe the next time :)
Finally, now I have a good and quick overview of closed-backs. Thanks a lot!
Aune SR7000 is solid, would like to hear your opinion on it.
Is ft1 really better than the hd620s?
Thanks for the review! 😊 So, the Azurys are better than Radiance?
Cool video gentleman!
Focal Azurys ??
Heard these at CanJam SoCal briefly, sound was weird, thick congested awkward? For me “C”
E3 refined good.
Haven’t heard the Aeon drop- good to hear it’s good.
Heard the og aeon closed, and it had failing cup reflections.
Have you guys heard the Aune SR 7000 ?
I picked these up from the iiwi review. These seem very good for $. The vocals are odd till they break in, but seem fairly linear from pretty low to my not so high hearing limits, warm side of neutral.
I heard the FT1 and liked it, not offensive, competent excellent value, hit like an hd650 vibe for me with better bass, not exceptional resolution.
What portable DAC/amp would you recommend for the DCA E3 (for use on planes etc.)?
Ii prefer Stealth over E3, but you need a great amp to get the most out of it. Also, the glass on E3 makes it heavier than necessary.
if you do eq lcd-xc, does it compete with or exceed noire x and e3 in technical performance?
I think they had it in C Tier , it used to be a favourite but DCA is better for similar prices
Weird to see Atrium Closed casually listed B when so many people call it S tier
It’s widely considered one of the best closed backs of all time.
We (ZMF) have asked many times not to be reviewed or included in these videos due to the implicit bias at play with a retail (sales) funded headphone review channel. Not saying that is or isn't present here, but I do wish we were left completely out of this, and I believe resolve only has heard most of our headphones only at shows and has not used the tuning kits or alternate pads for most of them. It'd be nice to have more context for the audience when these blanket statements are made.
@@zach915m I actually discovered ZMF through a review channel (Passion for Sound), that’s what led me to the Atrium Closed. Possibly the best purchase I’ve made since entering the Audiophile world.
I own both the Atrium Closed (hey Zach👋) and the MDR-Z1R and I can comfortably state that _both_ are S-tier after hearing ~80% of the high-end closed backs on this list. Sure, the Z1R may not have the last word on technicalities, but as a complete package, it’s hard to beat. Atrium Closed is in the same boat, just cranked to 11.
It’s all so subjective, though, as everyone’s HRTF is different. I don’t hear zingy treble in the Z1R for whatever reason, but the HD 800 S was too much for me.🤷
People need to remember that these lists are for entertainment purposes only.
Would love to hear your thoughts on ADAM Audio H200 Closed-Back Headphones 😊
I hope you guys can review the upcoming Kaldas Research Inox, it's not every day you'll see an estat closedback on the market. And widely speaking i'd like to see more estat coverage in the channel. 🙏
Can you guys provide more speaker options? I think I kinda start to grow out of the headphone zone now...
I would love a tier list of all "easy to drive" headphones. Open, closed, iems. Basically, best options to run without an amp.
I would like to hear your opinion on:
-audio-technica ath3000
and couple of anc headphones:
-PSB M4U 9
-DALI IO-12
Dude look how they rate Japanese headphones. Every reviewer has a bias these guys like a certain sound that Japanese headphones don’t really conform to. In my opinion they like a dead cold sound
How about Focal lensys professional? And I want to know about Ollo audio X1 in the next tier list. Thanks always.
I'm ecstatic because I'm getting the FiiO FT1 for Christmas! Really can't wait, got my amp ready and everything...
I just bought it for my dad and I opened it, tried it, looked up EQs for it. At first I wasn't impressed but one EQ made all the difference: Unheardlab's. It's actually insanely good, and weirdly, the simplest of all the EQs I tried. I just gotta install Peace on his laptop and import the EQ.
genelec?
I think shure srh1540 should at least B, probably A compared to the rest of the list. It has more midbass than usual but not bad. It's good bass and rest of the frequency response is exceptional.
Resolve committed treason by putting Audeze Xc C tier)
I use mine with the Schiit Nistch, it's not a perfect neutral setup, but that's why I like it. It's got a different flavor from my other setup(s)
Aune sr-7000, Sivga 021 Robin, Austrian Audio Hi-x 20/25/60
Im trying to get the focal azurys for christmas, this just gave me so much purchase validation😭
These Tier Lists always confuse me, e.g. why put the 1770 Mk1 almost in B and the 1770 Mk2 in D? 😭
qq will it be upgrading from focal elegia to aeon x drop or sidegrading??
Hi guys! what would you recommend for treble sensitive no amp/ dongle ex ka17 ?
Nah I have the Celeste and the Stella no way the Stella’s are under the Celeste, that just goes to show you that you determine if your headphones are good or not, not RUclips audiophiles
@@DuranInternational I mean some of the takes here are outrageously bad like putting Azurys over Stella, Radience and Celestee is just mind-blowing to me. Like that is just so wrong on so many levels.
Lost respect seeing that atrocious take.
Whats the point of owning both of those? Other than mental illness 😂
@ that’s true lol, I guess I like collecting lol
This is probably best used as what not to even consider and then start researching from there.
I would like to ask what is your EQ setting for Sennheiser M4? thank you
Forgive me but I can't see the Azuris? that you discuss when reviewing the FT1's.
Can you please mention the headphones you're wearing and why?
I watched this listening on my DCA/Drop Aeon Closed Xs. They needed some EQ for me, but I love them with my Schitt Hel 2 dac/amp
I still love my eq'd Denon d5200 and I prefer them a little bit over the FT1. Yeah, maybe the bass is not as good as in FT1's (it's terrible, actually) but the treble in them is just magical, every high midrange - treble instrument is very textured, detailed and has a good sense of presence. I have never tried the d9200, but from the graphs I've seen on the internet, d5200 should be a little more interesting and a little less wonky
I've owned 5200 and then switched to 9200 - last better in all possible ways. It hac more resolution, separetion, bass has more impact and textures. No regrets selling 5200 and getting 9200
Which one would be the best value if I like to EQ them anyway?
In other words, I would like to not have to pay extra for good tuning
The Sennheiser HD620s that has among the best noise isolation. You can't eq sound isolation.
Thanks fellas. Never heard about the FT1, but it's an easy blind buy for me now.
@@hemispherecompensation gadgetrytech has a good review on the FT1
"Easy blind buy" is pretty dumb, no? Another MidFi Chi Fi bang for buck to add to the 80 others
@@MrAhuraMazda A tier for 150. Ya it's an easy blind buy
It's Okay for the price...but not a top level as these 2 say. It's a cheapo mid chi fi headphone. Treble is not great...it's meh.
@@hemispherecompensation It's a solid C-
The new Kiwi Ears Division was hyped by another reviewer, would like to have your take on it. It's really very cheap so if it's decent it's already a good buy.
Always puzzled when reviewers refer to the Focal Radiance as being “bassy”. I bought one based on such reviews and my copy is so anemic. Wonder if I got a faulty unit.
they had pad issues, maybe yours are thinner and decrease bass, one of the reasons i try to avoid radiance/focal if possible, the only one i kept is the celestee.
@@andreasschwarz4908 Interesting, thanks. Perhaps I’ll try swapping out the pads.
What about the Elegia?
No denon d7200?
Can we we all just acknowledge D's incredible glow up over the past few years?
@@ConsecDesign simp lol
Could you please summarise the tiered position and models.
Blast from the past question - Oppo PM-3. What’s your opinion; for me it’s my cult favourite, I don’t think there’s a better portable planar out there
Th900 doesn't do bass well??
For cross reference, where does E3 land in that 2023 mega headphone tier list?
I just got the Senn 620S, glad they made it to B tier.
I got them for sound isolation even with the 822 headphones Rtings tested, it’s rated best for it too.
Note: they don’t have a section for passive noice isolation so I went though all from best to worst and ignored all using active noice cancelling.
Wb thw aune sr7000?
DCA E3 most overrated thing I've ever purchased in my life. I am a music producer and audio engineer, and these are not "fun" nor are they really "revealing" or "critical" like so many audiophiles and reviewers claimed. It made me realize my ears and brain are sensitive to much different things than most audiophiles.
I also found them HIGHLY uncomfortable, the pads never fit quite right, the top headband sucks and hurts my head (why is there hard embroidery being pushed onto my skull??), and they are nearly 500g or something similar, making me not want to wear them all day while working, listening to music or gaming.
No it's because your physical head interacts with it differently. Trying to be pretend you hear things people don't is incredibly childish.
how come you never mention t60 argons?
Curious where the new Focal Lensys Pro would place.
Clearly you have a soft spot for DCA headphones. So much so that your definition of musicality is anchored too much in harman curve.
Exactly. Thank God there are other reviewers and everyone has a different preference.
Thanks God we have our own ears and we can like whatever we want
Thank GOD I NEED another headphone just incase the 1000 others i own break (ahem Hifimen) 😂😂😂😂😂
Was the Meze Liric not included here?
Yes .Meze Liric II is B and Liric D Tier
It is included
ALL of the 80’s cop shows called. They want their ’stache back.
I want to know where they rate the different Argon variants.
Surprised where they put the Verité closed. Typically I hear people put it as their end game for closed back at S tier.
It’s been called end game for years
@@blessedred Closed back evolved pretty fast latest two years.
I’d advise a huge pinch of salt with any tier list from these folks
Focal Stella C tier says it all
Love this! Would really like to see maxwell in there too though
Glad to see the FIIOs in A Tier thinking their design choices will take the coveted spot in S Tier. Wow I have seen DCA at former Circuit Citys and older electronics store maybe Frys Electronics having DCA closed backs available to listen too but never cave in to learn that their the GOAT in the making. Im blown away that even the FT-1 couldnt compete because of the treble performance and cheap built although their cups are offered in American Walnut and also featuring an expanded 60mm drivers. Anyways the DCA E3 at $2000 is a splurge that i never knew was that Bugatti or Koenigsegg Hyper Car type experience that impresses and delivers
It would be great if these lists would include more “consumer products”(for lack of better wording) that allow also some kind of wired mode (Maxwell, Bathys,…) and the reason for these placements. In my opinion it makes the tier list more accessible for the average Joe.
No Aune SR7000?
DMS...with that stash, your new name is 'Johnny Stacks' from here on out.
Audeze Maxwell! What's its tier if we have it in the ranking?
DT770 is between F to B depending on the unit😅
Heard some Sundara Closed units that aren't even the same headphone by any measure🙈
I still use the AKG-K553mkII, it is easier to maintain and lasts longer than the 371.
Can't believe I own an A-Tier headphone featured on this channel. 🤯👍(FiiO FT1 with Capra strap and Dekoni Elite Velour pads)
Which Capra strap fits on the FT1's? I assume the velour pads from Dekoni are the ones for the Fostex TH series?
@@The-Crypt the Sony MDR7506 one is now "Sony MDR7506/FiiO FT1 Comfort Strap"
I hope you are being sarcastic lol
Which ones fit the FT1?
@@Makaveli6103 see my reply
What about the Dca Aeon 2 Noire ?
Any insights about the new Focal lensys pro? I would love to watch a comparison between it and the Azurys😊
Where would you put focal elegia guys because they didn't make it I had a pleasure to compare them with Celestee and I think they are better than them.