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
- More balanced than the original Ether C, addressing criticisms of insufficient bass and excessive brightness
- Smoother and faster treble response compared to the original, reducing harshness and improving detail
- Increased mid-bass presence, resulting in a noticeably bassier sound overall
- Improved clarity and detail compared to the original
- Maintains the comfortable design of the original Ether C
Product Considerations
- Some of the unique character and analytical nature of the original Ether C is lost, shifting towards a more musical sound
- The treble may be less forward in the mix and less detailed compared to the original Ether C
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Ether C–more bass and a smoother treble response
Takeaway: The Ether C Flow builds upon the original design, delivering a more balanced sound with improved bass and smoother treble. It is very comfortable and offers great sonic performance.
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
Ether C Flow
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Driver: 71mm x 45mm single-ended planar magnetic
- Driver matching: +/-1.5dB to target curve, channel matched to 0.5dB weighted 30-9KHz
- THD: less than 0.2% 20-20KHz
- Headband: Titanium
- Baffle: Aluminum
- Cup: Carbon Fiber
- Earpads: Japanese Synthetic Protein Leather
- Weight: 380gr
Description
ETHER C Flow is our flagship closed-back headphone. With the best isolation Innerfidelity measured in a closed headphone, ETHER C Flow not only delivers flagship sound quality, but offers the best passive noise reduction in the industry, making it a great headphone where external noise, or bothering others with your music, is a concern. And despite its size, ETHER C Flow is less than half the weight of some competing closed-back planar headphones in its price class, so it feels as nice to wear as it is to listen to!
Release Timeline
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:
- Dan Clark Audio headphones utilize a unique folding gimbal design, using Nitinol memory metal, which enables the headphones to fold to half their size for enhanced portability.
- DCA incorporates a proprietary Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS) into their headphones, which integrates waveguides, diffusion control, and resonators to eliminate standing waves and precisely shape the high-frequency response.
- The brand uses V-Planar technology in their planar magnetic drivers, molding textures on the driver surface to optimize low-frequency performance and improve diaphragm stability.
- Dan Clark Audio designs its products with a focus on comfort for extended listening sessions, evident in features like ergonomic head straps, lightweight construction, and carefully chosen earpad materials.
Select products
Select product comparisons
ÆON RT
- Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
- Description: Offers a vibrant sound with a lightweight, all-metal headband, making it ideal for travel and everyday use. Features a proprietary planar magnetic driver that enhances detail retrieval and bass response, distinguishing it from the more advanced ÆON 2 which offers a newer driver technology for improved dynamics and soundstage.
Noire X
- Positioning: Midrange line, balancing performance and value.
- Description: Uses the Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS) for a refined treble and improved driver for better sound consistency. Compared to the ÆON RT, it offers enhanced comfort and a more sophisticated sound profile, while still being more affordable than the E3.
Ether
- Positioning: High-end planar headphones, designed for ultimate comfort and sound quality.
- Description: Uses TrueFlow technology and a lightweight design for a natural and detailed sound. They offer larger drivers and more refined construction compared to the E3, providing a more nuanced and organic sound experience.
Expanse
- Positioning: Flagship open-back headphone, setting new standards in soundstage and detail.
- Description: Features a 4th generation planar-magnetic driver and AMTS, providing an expansive soundstage and smooth presentation, perfect for critical listening in quiet environments. It offers a more open and detailed sound compared to the Stealth, with a focus on musicality and comfort.
Corina
- Positioning: Reference electrostatic headphone, designed for ultimate resolution and natural tone.
- Description: Uses the AMTS to deliver electrostatic resolution with a natural tone. It provides a unique electrostatic experience compared to the planar magnetic models like Expanse, with a focus on delivering a lifelike and immersive sound.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
22
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
122
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
11
Founding Year
2012
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.
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Used
Dan Clark Audio
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What if you spend more?
Dan Clark Audio
Stealth
3999
3999
/
13
Reviews
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. This is our most exciting project to-date, with novel technology never before seen on any audio market - ready to dive in?
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.
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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.
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Dan Clark Audio
Expanse
3999
3999
/
8
Reviews
Introducing EXPANSE, our new flagship open-back headphone! EXPANSE sets a new standard in open-back headphone musicality, soundstage, detail retrieval, and comfort. Featuring Dan Clark Audio’s all-new 4th generation planar-magnetic driver and our breakthrough Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, EXPANSE delivers a stunningly smooth presentation to bring new depth and breadth to all your favorite music! EXPANSE ships immediately in North America. Shipments in Germany and the Netherlands start the week of Sept. 12 with other regions to follow.
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
- All-new 4th generation planar magnetic driver and breakthrough Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS)
- Balanced, natural, and transparent tonality with excellent resolution and detail
- Excellent comfort, due to features like the self-adjusting suspension system, comfortable pads, and well-distributed weight
- Unique and stylish design, with high-quality materials
Product Considerations
- Requires a lot of power to drive properly
- Some reviewers found the clamping force to be slightly high
- Proprietary Hirose connectors limit aftermarket cable options
- Bass may be light for those who prefer a bass-heavy sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Dan Clark Audio STEALTH, the Expanse also has a bigger soundstage, but this is by design, as an open back is going to have a wider sound
Takeaway: The Dan Clark Audio EXPANSE offers a combination of comfort, beautiful design, and high-end sound, making it a top-tier choice for audiophiles. It is an engaging and versatile headphone that should impress with its detail and expansive soundstage.
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.
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Product Page
Dan Clark Audio
Corina Reference
4499
4499
/
2
Reviews
Dan Clark Audio's CORINA Reference Electrostatic Headphone is now available for purchase. Shipments will begin in May, 2023. CORINA is a bold new take on electrostatic headphones. Featuring DCA's patent-pending Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS), CORINA sets a new standard in delivering electrostatic resolution with a natural tone. CORINA also features our self-tensioning headband design, as well as new ear pads with improved ergonomics, including a suede surface that reduces heat and moisture buildup.
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
- Delivers a wonderfully detailed, yet sumptuous and inviting musical experience, with all the resolution electrostatic headphone fans crave
- Offers a weightier and more percussive bottom end, with a wider and deeper soundstage, a stronger bottom end, and a smoother, richer midrange
- Has a natural, lively, and rich presentation, which is easier to listen to, no matter the musical genre
- Improved design and comfort compared to its predecessor, the VOCE, with a better headband and padding system
- Features the Advanced Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS) for enhanced control over waveguide manipulation, diffusion, and high-frequency damping
Product Considerations
- Requires good amplification, and tube amplifiers are specifically recommended for best synergy
- Is heavier than the VOCE
- May not satisfy listeners seeking a typical high-energy electrostatic treble presentation
- Sub-bass presentation is a bit lighter and may need to be taken into account depending on music preferences
- Harder to drive than the competition
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Shangri-La Jr.: The Corina is softer, fuller, and more musical, while the HIFIMAN aims more at the classic electrostatic tuning with ultimate speed, detail, and energy
- Vs HIFIMAN Jade II: The Corina offers higher technical performance, clarity, spaciousness, musicality, energy, and dynamism compared to the Jade II
Takeaway: The DCA Corina is a musical and engaging electrostatic headphone with a natural sound, making it enjoyable across various music genres. It combines technical prowess with a comfortable design, making it a worthwhile option for those seeking a high-quality listening experience.
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.
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Meze
Empyrean II
2999
2999
/
13
Reviews
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.
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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.
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What competes at this price?
Dan Clark Audio
E3
1999
/
Released
2023
E3 is our midrange closed-back headphone. E3 delivers a stunning level of performance and value, incorporating all the technological and ergonomic achievements of our flagship headphones, but at a more accessible price point. Incorporating an all-new 5th generation driver and our pioneering Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, or AMTS, E3 delivers a true flagship performance, without the flagship cost.
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
- Musical sound signature that is fun to listen to, making the experience pleasurable without covering up flaws in recordings
- Soundstage is expansive and three-dimensional, behaving more like an open-back than a closed-back headphone
- Excellent comfort with effective clamp pressure and gushy, cushy, supple pads allowing for all-day wearability
- Bass presence is excellent and extends nicely into the sub-bass with slam when needed
- New 5th generation driver delivers a smooth, rich, and detailed experience
- Proprietary connectors for the headphone cable mean that a separate cable may need to be purchased for use with other devices
Product Considerations
- Aesthetics may not appeal to everyone, particularly the honeycomb pattern and blue text on the earcups
- Significant amping is required to achieve its full potential, not ideal for portable use without a dedicated amplifier
- Treble is completely unveiled and may get splashy or fatiguing on the wrong set of ears, so auditioning is recommended
- Headphone pads are glued in and not easily replaceable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Dan Clark Audio Stealth—E3 sounds significantly better with better image separation and clarity
- Vs Dan Clark Audio Expanse—E3 offers better separation between sounds, micro-contrast, and detail, Expanse has more tactile bass
- Vs Dan Clark Audio ETHER C Flow—E3 is an upgrade with a mellower, sweeter midrange, and tighter bottom end
- Vs Meze Elite—E3 is as fast in detail retrieval
Takeaway: The Dan Clark Audio E3 is a well-rounded closed-back headphone that provides a fun and engaging listening experience with great comfort. It is a solid choice for those seeking a musical sound signature and excellent detail retrieval in a closed-back 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.
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Dan Clark Audio
Noire XO
1299
/
Released
2025
NOIRE XO™ updates our iconic AEON 2 open by integrating DCA's state-of-the-art Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System™ (AMTS™) with an improved driver, all carefully wrapped in a gorgeous ergonomically-enhanced design. NOIRE XO's dramatic black-on-black aesthetic, improved ear pads, self-adjusting headband, and beautiful open cups sumptuously hint at the numerous exciting upgrades within, all designed to maximize your listening pleasure.
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
- Comfortable design for long listening sessions due to the suspension strap and Alcantara suede earpads
- Good bass response for an open-back headphone, delivering deep, extended bass with visceral impact
- Detailed, non-sibilant treble, capturing a lot of detail without harshness
- Wide and realistic soundstage, offering spatial nuances and a realistic sense of space and depth
- Follows the Harman Target Curve closely, one of the few open-back headphones that does so throughout the frequency spectrum
Product Considerations
- May require a desktop system to achieve the full experience
- Midrange can sound soft, and the crunch tones of a guitar can lack weight
- Can be heavy for some, weighing 408 grams
- Dynamics can be subdued
- Not very open-sounding, some wish it sounded more open
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus the Noir X, the XO has a slightly richer low end, while the Noir X has a more energetic upper midrange and lower treble
- Versus the Aria Unveiled, the XO has richer bass and better vocal presence, while the Aria Unveiled is edgier with more brilliance and air
- Provides more resolution and information than the Aeon Closed X
Takeaway: The Noire XO are comfortable, audiophile-grade headphones that deliver a rich and balanced sound perfect for analytical listening and music enjoyment. The precise treble and spatial sound create an immersive experience that many listeners will find enjoyable.
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.
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Dali
IO-12
1300
/
Released
2023
The state-of-the-art DALI IO-12 Hi-Fi headphones offer you hours of listening pleasure in sumptuous comfort. From the real leather headband and ear pads to the 50 mm paper fibre cone and groundbreaking SMC drivers, the IO-12s reveal every musical detail.
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Incredible sound quality, with neutrality, detail, and balance across the frequency range
- Excellent build quality with premium materials and comfortable, luxurious design, making them suitable for extended listening sessions
- Adequate battery life, with reviewers reporting around 35 hours of wireless playback with ANC
- Effective active noise cancellation reduces low-frequency sounds without significantly impacting sound quality
- Versatile connectivity options including Bluetooth, USB-C for high-resolution audio, and a 3.5mm analog input that can be used passively
Product Considerations
- High price point puts them out of reach for many consumers
- Lack of a companion app limits customization options like EQ settings, firmware updates via mobile, and custom control settings
- Large earcups and overall weight may not be suitable for those with smaller heads, and the headband may slip
- Included travel case is large
- Some reviewers found the dark chocolate color scheme unappealing
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The DALI IO-12 has better ANC than the Focal Bathys
- The IO-12 is similar in sound signature to the Mark Levinson No. 5909
Takeaway: The DALI IO-12 is a high-end wireless headphone that delivers exceptional sound quality, comfort, and versatility, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want a premium listening experience on the go. Its blend of wired and wireless capabilities, combined with a mature design, makes it an excellent all-around performer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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T+A
Solitaire T
1700
/
Released
2022
From the first day the Solitaire T was developed with a single goal in mind: to blur the distinctions between audiophile, working and travel headphones by making the values and convictions which are the hallmark of every T+A product accessible in almost every situation in life. Their transducer system is a completely new development, capable of reproducing the most subtle nuances in audiophile quality in active and passive mode alike, while the passive insulation on its own is sufficient to push the outside world into the background.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive sound quality bridges the gap between wired and wireless performance
- It is a versatile product that can be used as a passive headphone, a USB DAC, or a Bluetooth headphone
- High build quality, with premium materials like milled aluminum contributing to a robust and luxurious feel
- Comfortable to wear for extended periods
- Long battery life, especially in standard mode—up to 70 hours
Product Considerations
- The fit may not be ideal for those with wider heads
- The treble response could be sweeter
- The active noise cancellation may not be class-leading compared to some competitors
- The volume in wireless mode may not be loud enough for some listeners
- Soundstage presentation feels intimate compared to full-sized reference headphones
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Mark Levinson No.5909: The Solitaire T has more detail and better organization, though the No. 5909 has a bigger, more spacious presentation
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8: The noise cancelling of the PX8 is better
- Vs Focal Celestee: The Solitaire T is comparable when used as a passive wired headphone
Takeaway: The T+A Solitaire T is a versatile and well-built headphone that offers high-quality sound in both wired and wireless modes, making it a great choice for audiophiles on the go or those who want one set of headphones for all situations. Listeners can enjoy music in a lot of different ways with these, and they sound very good.
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.
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Campfire Audio
Astrolith
2199
/
Released
2024
The latest from the acoustics team at Campfire Audio, Astrolith represents the tip-of-the-spear for IEMs using a pure planar magnetic architecture. Further expanding on Campfire's lineage of planar earphones, Astrolith incorporates two new drivers wrapped in our PPR and AAOI tuning elements. Combining the inherent advantages of planar magnetic drivers with decades of acoustic engineering experiences brings about an incredible new horizon in the realm of planar magnetic IEMs.
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive technical performance, clarity, detail retrieval, and resolution due to its planar magnetic drivers.
- Features a new, comfortable, and ergonomic shell design that's also lightweight and durable.
- Includes two upgraded Time Stream Metal cables, providing both 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations.
- Delivers a strong, extended bass response, with texture and speed, plus a nimble, airy top-end.
- Exhibits a spacious, wide, and holographic soundstage with good imaging and instrument separation.
Product Considerations
- Lower sensitivity might require a dedicated DAP or amplifier for optimal performance, and can sound anemic when paired with just a phone.
- Can be sensitive to source pairings, warmer DACs might wash out the mids and some pairings may bring out sibilance.
- Stock tips might not provide the best seal for everyone, and the stock tip selection is poor.
- Silicone eartips can make the treble sound harsh.
- The mirror-finished stainless steel faceplate is prone to fingerprints and smudges.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Campfire Audio Bonneville: Astrolith has superior mids, clarity, detail and transparency, and better treble extension, articulation, and overall resolution.
- Vs 64 Audio Volür: Astrolith offers bigger bass and a more exciting presentation, as well as faster and more resolving sound, but Volür is more accurate overall.
- Vs. Oriolus Monachaa: Astrolith has a faster and more controlled bass with better texture, a more natural and realistic midrange with a fabulous timbre.
- Vs. Elysian Acoustic Labs Annihilator: Astrolith delivers a more robust and organic mid-range with realistic and natural timbre and more defined lower mids.
Takeaway: The Astrolith is a technically impressive IEM with a comfortable design that delivers a powerful and detailed sound. It could be a great pick for listeners who want high-end sound that can play all kinds of music well.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
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