Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Enormous amounts of detail makes details pop out effortlessly
  • Bass is visceral and powerful, and the 50 to 100 Hertz range has an insane slam and impact with excellent control
  • The IEM has a pretty reference sound that does not over exaggerate any specific frequency

Product Considerations

  • Fit can be an issue for people with smaller ears
  • Vocals are not extremely forward, and the lower mids introduces a slight bit of warmth, so a little vocal air and nuance is missed

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • 64 Audio CP622B Ti Vs 64 Audio CP622B: The CP622B feels richer and warmer, with more sub-bass, while the Ti version is more precise and clear, but with less mid-bass impact
  • Vs Sony IER M9: The CP622B easily outperforms it in imaging
  • Vs Unique Melody Maven II: The CP622B has a more elevated sub-bass rumble and more forward upper mids/vocals, with an overall warmer tonality, while the Maven II tuning is more balanced, less colored, and has more clarity and higher resolution in upper frequencies

Takeaway: The 64 Audio CP622B is a reference-tuned IEM that delivers a lot of details and a visceral bass experience thanks to the bone conduction driver. This could be a pretty good choice for those looking for one of the best IEMs in the world.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

CP622B

reviews

[{"title":"Canpur CP622B Titanium First Look: Clear as Glass","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0JqloeZV1Y","source":"Bad Guy Unboxings","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Canpur CP622B IEM Review 💎","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GTtFIMeJRY","source":"Bad Guy Good Audio Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Canpur CP622B","link":"https://twister6.com/2024/06/03/canpur-cp622b","source":"twister6.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Canpur CP622B Review: Reference Can Be This Fun?","link":"https://www.aboutaudio.org/canpur-cp622b-review-reference-can-be-this-fun","source":"aboutaudio.org","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

CP622B delivers a richness and smooth sound that is not tight but sensitive and pleasant. You are not captivated by something overstated from the start of your hearing. It is similar to a narcotic that you will become addicted to gradually and comfortably as you become engaged in it.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

CANPUR DEEP BLUE

  • Positioning: Entry-level dynamic driver IEM designed for affordability and compactness.  
  • Description: Offers enhanced tuning and a balanced sound signature with natural detail that suits casual listening and smaller spaces. In comparison to other models, it lacks advanced circuitry and a high driver count but provides a simple, accessible solution for everyday use.

CANPUR JOYFULL 1 

  • Positioning: Basic model in the Joyfull series offering quality sound at a lower price point.  
  • Description: Provides clear, pleasant sound and is compact enough for portable use, making it a practical option for daily listening. Compared to its advanced siblings, it has fewer technical features but still delivers solid performance.

CANPUR CPBA7

  • Positioning: An advanced model featuring a sophisticated four-frequency circuit architecture intended for high-resolution audio reproduction.  
  • Description: Offers clear, detailed sound across all frequencies by dedicating circuits to individual ranges, which supports demanding listening scenarios and technical performance needs. Compared to less intricate models, its design delivers higher resolution and technical sophistication.

CANPUR JOYFULL 1&1 

  • Positioning: An advanced mode in the Joyfull series that steps up performance and features above the basic model.  
  • Description: Uses enhanced tuning and rigorous sound calibration to produce a more immersive audio experience, catering to users who need extra technical refinement. Relative to the basic Joyfull 1 and other central offerings, it delivers improved accuracy and performance.

CANPUR JOYFULL 1&2 

  • Positioning: The flagship in-ear monitor that combines the most advanced technologies available from Canpur.  
  • Description: Uses state-of-the-art driver configurations and high-end circuitry to deliver a highly immersive and detailed sound signature, making it ideal for professional applications and larger sound environments. Compared to every other product in the lineup, it offers the utmost technical sophistication and functionality.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
823
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
10
Founding Year
2019

Our take on the brand

Canpur is a Dutch hifi brand founded in 2019 by veteran drummer Hans JAPM Witjes, focusing on making high-end in-ear monitors attainable for working musicians through data-driven fit engineering based on thousands of ear-canal impressions. The brand distinguishes itself through transparency, listing exact driver specifications and internal acoustic designs, including bone-conduction technology for holographic soundstaging.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

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From our interview with
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Canpur

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What if you spend more?

Product image
T+A
Solitaire P
6900
6900
/
18
Reviews

Our first headphones represent a new and ground-breaking development which pushes the magneto-static principle to the point of perfection. We have designed these open headphones with no hint of compromise and without regard to cost, for we had only one goal in mind: musical reproduction to the very highest standard of perfection. The headphone transducer systems are of sophisticated construction, and all components and sub-assemblies are manufactured to the tightest of tolerances using precision tools. Wherever possible and sensible, the headphones employ aluminium components machined from solid metal. The ingenious construction of the diaphragms, drive magnets and sound guides linearises the sound field and the dispersion characteristics. Music is reproduced without distortion: the Solitaire P adds nothing and takes nothing away. Totally natural reproduction is the first commandment for all T+A devices.

T+A is a hifi brand that combines transistor and valve technologies in their HV-Series amplifiers, using high voltage for linear performance, while their A 200 Power Amplifier uses PURIFI Eigentakt technology for low distortion regardless of speaker load.
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Product Strengths

  • Well-balanced, clear, and detailed sound suitable for a wide range of music genres
  • Exceptional micro and macro-dynamic performance
  • Bass response has a quick, impactful 'slam' and is technically impressive
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions due to quality materials and design
  • Substantial build quality, using high-quality materials like aluminum and Alcantara

Product Considerations

  • Treble can be a bit blunted and dark in the stock tuning, potentially requiring EQ adjustment for some listeners
  • Click-stops on the headband adjustment could be firmer for a high-end product
  • Headband fit may not be ideal for all head sizes
  • Recessed HD800 connector may limit aftermarket cable options

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HIFIMAN Susvara: Solitaire P has more bass and a wider soundstage, but the Susvara is slightly more detailed and comfortable
  • Vs Abyss 1266TC: Solitaire P's bass is similar, though not exactly the same, with detail levels close, though trailing slightly behind—Solitaire P is more comfortable
  • Vs Meze ELITE: Solitaire P is more detailed and technically accomplished, though the Meze has more treble presence and is more comfortable

Takeaway: The T+A Solitaire P offers high-end sound quality, comfortable wear for extended listening, and exceptional detail and dynamics. With its balanced sound signature and impressive build, it's a top-tier choice for serious audiophiles.

Video review

Our take on the brand

T+A is a hifi brand that combines transistor and valve technologies in their HV-Series amplifiers, using high voltage for linear performance, while their A 200 Power Amplifier uses PURIFI Eigentakt technology for low distortion regardless of speaker load.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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HIFIMAN
Susvara Unveiled
8000
8000
/
12
Reviews
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Outstanding sound quality with clarity, texture, and detail
  • Natural sound provides a you-are-there presence
  • Improved microdynamics make them quick and fast
  • Easier to drive than the original Susvara due to a changed metal trace on the diaphragm
  • Very comfortable, with good weight distribution
  • Driver is exposed, making it vulnerable to damage

Product Considerations

  • Can be unforgiving on poor recordings
  • Lacks soundstage depth and layering compared to some competitors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Mesa Elite: The Mesa Elite offers greater bass weight and depth in the soundstage
  • Vs Audeze LCD-5: The LCD-5 provides more insight into the music, but the Susvara Unveiled excels in reproducing the attack and energy of plucked strings and in bass reproduction
  • Vs Focal Utopia 2022: The Utopia balances everything well—tonality, punch, detail, staging—however both have a little edginess from the treble
  • Vs HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: The HE1000 is brighter and seems a little faster and more detailed, but the Susvara Unveiled is smoother
  • Vs Original Susvara: The Unveiled model is more agile and lively, with added energy, clarity, and upper-treble extension, and the original is more laid back

Takeaway: The Susvara Unveiled provides detail and resolution that one has likely never heard before, making them astonishing headphones. If the priority is a reference-style tuning for orchestral music with excellent balance, scale, and tonal response, these headphones can provide a massive sonic treat.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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Stax
SR-X9000
6200
6200
/
11
Reviews

Evolution to "MLER-3"

At the heart of the SR-X9000 lies the revolutionary MLER-3 electrode. Evolved from its predecessor found in the SR-009S, this four-layer electrode combines etched and metal-mesh layers through advanced diffusion junction technology. This enhancement not only enables the production of larger, round-shaped metal-mesh electrodes but also elevates sound transparency and minimizes vibration-induced distortion, setting a new standard for clarity and responsiveness.

Passion for metal-mesh

The round shaped metal-mesh which was installed in SR-X reduced air resistance and the effect of reflection. This increased the sound transparency. So, metal-mesh is the ideal material of fixed electrodes. However, bigger and thinner metal mesh electrodes are poor in rigidity and may make sound unclear. This is the reason why it was too hard to install metal mesh electrodes in STAX products. In 1990s, SR-Ω, in which the metal mesh electrode is installed, was developed. Because the metal mesh electrode was made bigger for this model, it had to be reinforced with an adhesive by hand. This is a very high precision work. So, it was extremely difficult to manufacture metal mesh electrodes for SR-Ω. The stable mass production could not be realized. This is the reason why SR-Ω was sold in very small quantities in spite of its high sound quality.

The diaphragm increases 20% in size compared with the previous flagship model

The SR-X9000 showcases an enlarged diaphragm, 20% larger than its forebear, the SR-009S. Crafted from an ultra-thin, super-engineered plastic film, this diaphragm achieves a near-weightless state, ensuring swift transient response and unparalleled linearity across all frequencies. The result is an expansive sound field that reveals the finest details in your music.

The enclosure which is made of tough machined aluminum eliminates unnecessary vibrations

Encasing these advanced components is a robust machined aluminum enclosure. This meticulously designed structure secures the sound unit in place, eliminating extraneous vibrations and ensuring a pure, undistorted auditory experience. The innovative tilt guard mesh further refines sound delivery, its unique arrangement optimizing reflection angles to ensure crystal-clear, uncolored sound.

The tilt guard mesh design

Complementing the structural advances, the SR-X9000 earspeakers boast a stainless-steel arc assembly, equipped with a 9-step adjustment system for a precise and comfortable fit. Complemented by a stabilizer to dampen residual vibrations and genuine leather head pads and ear pads, these earspeakers promise unparalleled comfort for extended listening sessions.

The stainless-steel arc assembly with 9 steps adjusting click system

Connectivity is equally considered, with STAX's bespoke low-capacity, wide hybrid cable employing ultra-pure 6NCu annealed copper and silver-plated wires. This configuration, coupled with replaceable cable options, ensures not just exceptional sound transmission but also durability and adaptability to personal listening preferences.

The comfortably fitting ear pads

The material of the ear pads is genuine leather (sheep skin) which has excellent breathability and softness. Genuine leather makes the earspeakers to closely fit your ears for a long time and you can fully enjoy the high-quality bass and vivid sound. This also reduces fatigue and you can comfortably listen to the music for a long time.

STAX original low-capacity wide hybrid cable made of 6NCu ultra-pure annealed copper wire and silver-plated annealed copper wire

The material of the core cable is 6NCu ultra-pure annealed copper wire (φ0.14×3). The material of the around core cable is silver plated annealed copper wire (φ0.08×9). STAX original wide parallel 6-strand cable is used.

Replaceable cables

Connectivity is equally considered, with STAX's bespoke low-capacity, wide hybrid cable employing ultra-pure 6NCu annealed copper and silver-plated wires. This configuration, coupled with replaceable cable options, ensures not just exceptional sound transmission but also durability and adaptability to personal listening preferences.

The storage case made of "paulownia wood"

Finally, the SR-X9000 is presented in an exquisite paulownia wood storage case, chosen for its thermal and humidity regulation properties. This case not only protects but also enhances the longevity and performance of these exceptional earspeakers. Embrace the heritage and experience the future of audio with the STAX SR-X9000 earspeakers, where the legacy of sound meets the pinnacle of auditory craftsmanship.

Stax is renowned for pioneering electrostatic headphones, which deliver an airy, ethereal sound signature with unparalleled clarity compared to traditional dynamic and planar magnetic drivers. The brand has cultivated a devoted following of "Staxists" who collect multiple models, drawn to their ruthlessly revealing nature that exposes both strengths and flaws in recordings.
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Product Strengths

  • Astoundingly resolving, pulling out a lot of detail from the music signal
  • Very light unit made with nice materials and a comfortable design
  • Detachable cables with thick pins, spaced far apart to prevent damage and shocks
  • The best electrostatic that Stax has made, a culmination of their experience
  • Purity, tonal neutrality, rhythmic ease and resolve that reviewers have not previously experienced with headphones

Product Considerations

  • Head size adjustment could be more solid, and it slides on the head a bit
  • Bright tonality and forward resolution can be fatiguing after long listens
  • Lacks bass punch or slam, it's there but not powerful in rumble or physicality
  • The bass region on these headphones is a hit and miss
  • Underwhelming soundstage

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HIFIMAN Shangri-La Jr: The Shangri-La Jr is a little warmer but not as detailed, nor as holographic in its spatial presentation
  • Vs Susvara: Susvara has more warmth and fullness, a more natural timbre, and more sub-bass rumble and slam, whereas the SR-X9000 can come across as a little bit dry at times
  • Vs SR-009S: SR-X9000 smoother, richer, and had better micro-details, while the 009S seemed a tad more dynamic and brighter
  • Vs Meze Elite: SR-X9000 is the clear winner on soundstage size, speed, transient response, instrument texture and realism, however, the Elite was the winner when it comes to density, body, dynamics, and bass

Takeaway: The SR-X9000 is the most complete and competent Stax headphone, its resolution is stunning, and its spatial presentation is very holographic. It is worthy of being in that top-of-the-line tier, a solid effort from Stax.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Stax is renowned for pioneering electrostatic headphones, which deliver an airy, ethereal sound signature with unparalleled clarity compared to traditional dynamic and planar magnetic drivers. The brand has cultivated a devoted following of "Staxists" who collect multiple models, drawn to their ruthlessly revealing nature that exposes both strengths and flaws in recordings.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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HIFIMAN
HE-R10P
5499
5499
/
8
Reviews
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Sounds big and open for a closed-back headphone, with an impressive soundstage for its type.
  • Offers a warm-leaning, smooth, mid-forward sound signature.
  • Very good imaging creates an immersive listening experience, and detailed separation of instruments.
  • Easy to drive with a low impedance and high sensitivity, making it suitable for use with portable devices.
  • The wooden earcups have a large internal space that brings sufficient volume and breathing room to the driver.

Product Considerations

  • Build quality may be disappointing for the price, particularly the headband, which is considered cheap compared to other headphones in the price range.
  • Comfort can be an issue due to the weight and headband design, which may cause discomfort on the scalp for some users.
  • Lacks clamping force, so the weight is felt on the top of the head, and it does not isolate sound very well.
  • Treble response might be somewhat softer or less energetic compared to other headphones, which might not appeal to those seeking a more exciting sound.
  • One review mentions an issue with a dip around 5kHz and a peak around 10kHz that impacts some instruments, though it is admittedly 'nitpicking'.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HIFIMAN HE-R10D: There is a difference in price and sound signature.
  • Vs HIFIMAN Susvara: The HE-R10P has less soundstage, the Susvara has more transparency, but the HE-R10P has more mid-bass presence.
  • Vs Focal Stellia: The HE-R10P has a larger soundstage and more powerful bass, but Stellia has a safer tuning with a brighter high end.

Takeaway: The HiFiMan HE-R10P is a closed-back planar headphone that delivers exceptional sound quality with remarkable imaging and detail, making music sound lively and fun. Its unique design aims to create an open and spacious listening experience, allowing listeners to enjoy music for hours.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Canpur
CP74E
2899
/
Released
2024
The Canpur CP74E excels with its 11-driver configuration, offering a blend of powerful bass, detailed mids, and well-balanced treble. CP74E provides refined imaging and transient response. The CP74E's warm, detailed sound makes it a strong contender in its price range.
Check Amazon
Canpur is a Dutch hifi brand founded in 2019 by veteran drummer Hans JAPM Witjes, focusing on making high-end in-ear monitors attainable for working musicians through data-driven fit engineering based on thousands of ear-canal impressions. The brand distinguishes itself through transparency, listing exact driver specifications and internal acoustic designs, including bone-conduction technology for holographic soundstaging.
Expand Details

Our Summary

No items found.

Product Strengths

  • Clear sound with a smooth and sweet focus
  • Gentle w-shaped sound signature carefully highlights all three frequency ranges, offering a reference-like linearity while achieving full musicality and enjoyable dynamics
  • Exceptional quality control and assurance
  • Beautiful blend of gentleness and a lilting atmosphere in the vocal reproduction
  • High quality packaging and accessories

Product Considerations

  • Bass, though moist and smooth, may not satisfy bassheads
  • Smaller soundstage, compared to other models

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the CP622B, the CP74E is a set that is just under it by about a thousand dollars, it's got one extra driver, but it doesn't have the BCD drivers

Takeaway: The CP74E is a good choice for those who value clear and smooth sound, especially with vocals, and appreciate excellent quality control. It offers a balanced and enjoyable listening experience that competes well in its price range.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canpur is a Dutch hifi brand founded in 2019 by veteran drummer Hans JAPM Witjes, focusing on making high-end in-ear monitors attainable for working musicians through data-driven fit engineering based on thousands of ear-canal impressions. The brand distinguishes itself through transparency, listing exact driver specifications and internal acoustic designs, including bone-conduction technology for holographic soundstaging.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Meze
Empyrean II
2999
/
Released
2023
Following our purposeful design philosophy, Empyrean II emerges as a symphony of artistry, sound innovation and craftsmanship. Our goal was to enhance the headphones' ability to reproduce fine details and achieve a more neutral sound signature, all the while preserving the original "easy to listen to" character.
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Meze Audio is a hifi brand known for their unique Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver technology, which provides an immersive sound experience with a frequency range of 3 Hz to 112 kHz. Their headphones feature distinctive design elements like black walnut wood ear cups and detachable magnetic ear pads, setting them apart from typical plastic or metal designs in the premium headphone market.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Top-notch build quality, with premium materials and a comfortable design
  • Excellent sound quality with a balanced presentation—no outstanding weaknesses across the frequency spectrum
  • Two sets of earpads are included (Duo and Alcantara) for sound customization
  • The design has a strong aesthetic, and the magnetic pad swapping system is easy to use
  • Wider soundstage and more three-dimensional imaging

Product Considerations

  • Sensitivity has dropped compared to the original Empyrean and Elites, requiring slightly more power to drive
  • There might be a little bit of extra emphasis around the three to four kilohertz mark, which can make them a little bit fatiguing—a little bit bitey in the treble
  • Not the largest soundstage that can be experienced at this price point
  • The open design leaks sound and doesn't offer much in the way of isolation
  • Those particularly sensitive might hear some spikiness in the lower treble region

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Original Meze Empyrean: Empyrean II has a more neutral tuning, is more defined, and has better detail separation
  • Vs Meze Elite: Empyrean II offers stronger bass extension and more of the engaging emotional delivery
  • Vs Meze Elite: The Elite seems more expansive than Empyrean 2, though not by a lot
  • Vs HIFIMAN HE1000SE: The HE1000SE sound is more spacious, the bass is snappier, and the amount of detail is slightly above the Elite and Empyrean

Takeaway: The Empyrean II is an enjoyable headphone, improving on the original with a more accurate and versatile sound that maintains the core Empyrean identity. The comfort, build quality, and well-balanced sound make it a great choice for a high-end listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Meze Audio is a hifi brand known for their unique Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver technology, which provides an immersive sound experience with a frequency range of 3 Hz to 112 kHz. Their headphones feature distinctive design elements like black walnut wood ear cups and detachable magnetic ear pads, setting them apart from typical plastic or metal designs in the premium headphone market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Focal
Stellia
2999
/
Released
2019
With its exclusive drivers, Stellia pushes the boundaries of acoustics. It offers uncompromising sound performance, for top-quality listening at home and on the move. This innovation is highlighted by the use of high-quality materials and refined aesthetics.
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Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Detailed and energetic listening experience, engaging and resolving with a low-end weight and warmth that is fun and non-fatiguing
  • Dynamics are impactful, transients are notably quick, and it has Beryllium drivers with an almost electrostatic speediness
  • Exceptional build quality with high-quality leather and beautifully shaped metal parts, giving the headphones a strong aura of undeniable luxury
  • Easy to drive, delivering a full sound regardless of the source, and can be driven by almost anything with a headphone jack
  • Likely the most spacious closed-back pair of headphones encountered by one reviewer, and presents a three-dimensional soundstage

Product Considerations

  • Somewhat intimate soundstage compared to open-back headphones
  • The included rubber-coated cables are slightly stiff and somewhat microphonic
  • Bass can be a bit boomy with stock pads

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD800: Stellia offers a similar soundstage, but the Sennheisers require more power and sound thinner
  • Vs Sennheiser HD650: Stellia sounds like a more detailed and bassy HD650
  • Vs Focal Clear MG: Clear MG is more balanced, more open sounding, and has a better soundstage

Takeaway: The Focal Stellia is an extremely well-built and luxurious headphone that provides a detailed and enjoyable listening experience with a punchy and clean sound. For those seeking a closed-back headphone that can reveal every detail in music, it is worth considering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Dan Clark Audio
Stealth
3999
/
Released
2021
STEALTH is Dan Clark Audio's closed flagship headphone, and its striking matte black and red design offers a teaser of its stunningly smooth, rich and spacious sound. STEALTH is a closed-back headphone that delivers great isolation, while our proprietary Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS) works with our all-new 4th generation driver to create a huge, wide-open soundstage. STEALTH features a self-adjusting headband and an emphasis on ergonomics that make extended listening comfortable.
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Dan Clark Audio sets itself apart with its patented Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, which uses waveguides and resonators to shape frequency response to uniquely close adherence to various targets, and a unique tensioning system that ensures consistent performance across their headphone units. Their summit-tier headphones feature an uncommon folding design for portability, and their self-adjusting headbands offer extended comfort during long listening sessions.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers a combination of dynamic driver, planar magnetic, and electrostatic qualities, providing impressive bass, speed, treble reach, and broad frequency resolution
  • Exceptional clarity and resolution across the frequency spectrum
  • Has a natural and immersive sound, very refined, with exceptional staging, positioning, layering, relative spacing, and image stability
  • Very comfortable, lightweight (415g), and foldable for portability
  • The Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS) delivers smooth, accurate, and detailed high frequencies, while minimizing unwanted distortions

Product Considerations

  • Requires a good seal to be effective, and the seal can be easily broken by movement or glasses
  • The Stealths require a bit of power to sound their best, marginal efficiency at 86-89dB
  • Less sensitive than other headphones, requiring higher volume settings and more powerful amplification
  • Revealing of poor recordings and distortion in the system
  • Can lack slam or macro contrast

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Stealth is more comfortable, better built, more isolating, has amazing quality control, and is more resolving and fun, while sounding more accurate due to the AMTS, compared to the Dan Clark Audio Ether 2
  • The Stealth has better balance, with the Focal Stellia having too much bass, smoother treble, and better instrument separation, though the Stellia has better punchiness
  • The Stealth is lighter, has better instrument separation, and better tuning without needing EQ, compared to the Audeze LCD-XC
  • The Stealth gives a more tonal 'normal' presentation, wins for instrument separation, and has excellent design, compared to the ZMF Verite

Takeaway: The Dan Clark Audio Stealth headphones combine excellent sound quality with a comfortable, portable design, making them a good choice for audiophiles who want a high-end listening experience at home or on the go. It is a good all-arounder that does everything well with its design.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Dan Clark Audio sets itself apart with its patented Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, which uses waveguides and resonators to shape frequency response to uniquely close adherence to various targets, and a unique tensioning system that ensures consistent performance across their headphone units. Their summit-tier headphones feature an uncommon folding design for portability, and their self-adjusting headbands offer extended comfort during long listening sessions.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Empire Ears
Legend Evo (Universal)
3099
/
Released
2021
The story of the Legend EVO is one of revolution. Free from the constraints of convention and empowered by the skills gained from decades of experience, we knew that in order to develop a proper successor we had to take extraordinary new measures. With a pioneering Dual Conduction Architecture and 8 driver tribrid system at its core the Legend EVO emits unprecedented levels of innovation and performance to create a new benchmark in the IEM industry.
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Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent technical performance and detail retrieval, considered several cuts above other IEMs
  • Outstanding imaging performance, with precise soundstage and instrument separation
  • The bass response is a highlight, delivering a punchy sub-bass with texture and articulation
  • Offers a warmer tonal balance that is easy to get into with a mostly 'neutral' sound
  • Bone conduction enhances low-frequency extension, reverb, and detail

Product Considerations

  • Large chassis that may be uncomfortable for some users, particularly those with smaller ears
  • The subdued treble range may not provide enough energy and sparkle for some listeners
  • Stock cable is lackluster in terms of usability due to its plasticky feel, rigidity, and microphonic feedback
  • Driver flex (a harmless crinkling sound upon insertion) is present

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Legend Evo delivers a stronger bass impact, depth, and extension than the Legend X
  • Legend Evo produces better constructed highs than the Legend X
  • Legend Evo shows better clarity than the Legend X, and has more detail
  • The Legend X can sound veiled concerning the Legend Evo
  • The Legend Evo feels a touch smoother than the Empire Ears ODIN

Takeaway: The Legend Evo is a top-tier IEM with innovative bone conduction technology that creates a unique and immersive listening experience with enhanced bass. It is a great option for those seeking flagship-level performance with a warm, bass-focused sound signature.

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Our take on the brand

Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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