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.
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SR-1b
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Manufacturer details
- Driver Type: True ribbon transducer
- Ribbon Material: Corrugated pure aluminum
- Ribbon Length: 100 mm (4.0 in)
- Ribbon Width: 19 mm (0.75 in)
- Ribbon Excursion: ±3.75 mm
- Moving Mass: 0.06 g
- Driver: 0.02 Ω
- With SC2 Cable: 0.25 Ω
- With Star-8 Cable: 0.25 Ω
- Free Air Resonance (new): 40 Hz
- Free Air Resonance (after break-in): 20 Hz (~100 hours)
- Maximum SPL: 111 dB
- Body Material: Carbon fiber
- Finish: Epoxy
- Grille: Etched
- Headspring: Bead-blasted stainless steel
- Height Adjustment: 5-position leather band
- Upper Pads: Lambskin leather suede with memory foam (washable)
- Input Connectors: High-current 3.5 mm TRRS female
- Total: 426 g (0.94 lb)
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:
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RAAL 1995 Magna
- Positioning: A mid-range headphone designed to balance performance and affordability.
- Description: Features two ribbon drivers in a compact design that delivers a focused sound suitable for smaller rooms and everyday use. In comparison to the flagship model, it has a smaller driver surface and simpler tuning, making it a practical choice for users mindful of budget and room size.
RAAL 1995 Immanis
- Positioning: A high-end headphone intended as the flagship offering in the lineup.
- Description: Comes with three ribbon drivers and a larger front chamber that boosts driver surface area for a wider soundstage, ideal for larger spaces and detailed audio reproduction. Compared to the Magna, it incorporates advanced tuning and unique design elements.
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RAAL-requisite
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Product Strengths
- Offers a combination of electrostatic resolution with dynamic timbre and planar bass extension, delivering the 'best of all worlds'
- The build quality is superb, with premium materials and craftsmanship that surpass competitors
- Delivers perfectly extended bass with a planar-like slam, with detail, texture, and physicality
- Has a wide soundstage with excellent imaging that creates a holographic feeling of voices and instruments, with a true 360-degree experience
- Very comfortable to wear, despite being somewhat heavy, with good weight distribution and no hot spots
Product Considerations
- Requires a powerful headphone amp to get the most out of it, due to the need for a current drive interface/transformer
- The weight (610g) may be a concern for some users, though the weight is distributed well
- Some vocalists, particularly some female vocalists, may sound more distant than desired
- Bad mastered songs tend to immediately show problems
- Frequency response is dependent on synergy with the amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Susvara, it combines the weight of the original Susvara with the soundstage and resolution improvements of the Susvara Unveiled—more power is needed
- Vs Abyss 1266, it has more body of sound, smoother highs, and tighter, more natural bass, while the Abyss has a wider soundstage, better positioning, and more bass impact
- Vs Dan Clark Audio Stealth, it has a wider soundstage and feels more effortless, and is more open, while the Stealth is closed, has more bass quantity, and a more pleasing treble
- Vs RAAL-requisite CA-1A, it improves upon the CA-1A in terms of body of sound, bass, and timbre, while remaining comfortable, and the CA-1A has a lighter and more forward soundstage
Takeaway: The Immanis is an exceptional headphone that blends various sonic qualities together, boasting great build quality and an immersive sound experience. With the right equipment to support it, one can enjoy a detailed and spacious sound that makes it a top contender in the flagship headphone market.
Video review
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Video review
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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.
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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.
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
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What competes at this price?
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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Built with premium, high-quality, sturdy materials with a solid feel
- Very comfortable and relatively lightweight, suitable for long listening sessions
- Easy to drive with low impedance and reasonable sensitivity
- Delivers a reference-grade sense of clarity, balance, and vast soundstage
- Excellent instrument separation and imaging
- Easy to drive with low impedance and reasonable sensitivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers found the range of headband adjustment limited, making it potentially unsuitable for those with smaller heads
- The banana plug cable connectors are proprietary, limiting third-party cable options
- The stock cable is acceptable, but not particularly premium feeling
- The bass is a little lightweight and might require EQ adjustment for some listeners
- A dip at 2kHz was noted by some reviewers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD800S: The Composer has better bass extension, but the HD800S has better resolution and detail
- Vs HIFIMAN Arya/HE1000 series: The Composer sounds more natural than some HIFIMAN planars, and it may have greater bass depth
- Vs Meze Audio Empyrean II: The Composer goes deeper in the soundstage, with better layering and more sub-bass presence, but the Empyrean II is softer and more relaxed
- Vs ZMF Outure Classic: The Composer has better bass response but is smoother and more tame in the treble
Takeaway: The Austrian Audio Composer is a well-built, comfortable, and easy-to-drive headphone with a balanced, clear, and detailed sound signature. It offers a reference quality that can be great for critical listening and casual enjoyment.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a beautifully smooth and refreshingly beefy tuning compared to previous Diana headphones
- The most comfortable planar magnetic set of cans ever worn
- Build quality is very impressive
- Good mid-range
Product Considerations
- Needs additional padding for optimal scalp comfort
- Treble can become problematic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Diana MR most remind reviewer of a super version of the HIFIMAN Edition XS
- Spatial presentation is better from the HIFIMAN HE1000SE, and the midrange is better balanced as well
Takeaway: The Diana MR is the most accessible set of high-end open-back planar headphones to date from Abyss. It is a fun and impressive listen.
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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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Natural sound, evoking a dynamic driver sound but with planar magnetic performance
- Excellent resolution, while maintaining smooth treble
- Holographic stereo image, which contributes to its lifelike character
- Good layering and separation of instruments
- Incredibly wide and tall soundstage, providing a very dynamic experience
Product Considerations
- Bass extension is not spectacular, with noticeable roll-off below 50Hz, and can be a bit soft without great impact for some listeners
- Can tend towards sibilance on some signal chains
- Overall presentation is amp sensitive, and can vary the experience significantly
- The D8000 Pro Limited Edition can be finicky, and requires careful signal chain pairing to achieve the best sound
- May slightly lack the charisma that one looks for in a more expressive or musical headphone
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Dan Clark Audio Expanse: The D8000 Pro LE has a more natural sounding bass and tighter attack on drums, while the Expanse has more bass emphasis and a wider soundstage
Takeaway: The Final Audio D8000 Pro Limited Edition provides a thrilling and engaging listening experience with its natural sound and incredible detail. It could be a worthwhile addition to a collection for listeners who appreciate acoustic music and a highly immersive soundstage.
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