Review of DJ headphones [I've owned and used over the years]

[Jason Cerna]

updated. rep distributed. thank you all for your contributions.

[ampnation]

Looks like the XD-40 headphones.

One would think the OP would list the model # without us having to guess or look at the img tag to figure it out though.

[Jason Cerna]

*I've been drinking and chilling at the local hookah lounge since I got off work, so mind the typos and large run on sentences.

AIAIAI TMA-1



Transducer Principle Dynamic, closed
Driver Unit Size
40 mm
Impedance
32±15% Ohm
Load Rating
0.1W
Frequency Response
20 to 20.000 Hz
Total Harmonic Distortion
<0.3%
Sensitivity
110±3dB
Weight without cable
190 Gram

Sound: 5/5, Sound is clear with no distortion. Sounds favor the low end without being excessive. The highs and mids still come out clear. Comparable to the technics Technics RP-DH1200 or pioneer hdj1000s.

Sound Isolation: 5/5, Sound isolation is great with the heavier earcups. I am not a fan of the other earcups included in the box. Definitely blocks out the voices from annoying people with requests and birthday shoutouts.

Durability: 5/5, I've barely had these two weeks. I tried to beat the crap out of them at my two gigs last week, but they held up. I even dropped them a few times. Long term, I'd bet on these lasting a good number of years (8+ easy). My sony mdr v700s lasted just over 8 years before i retired them and they still work. The way the headband is built, I can't see how these would snap at any point. If anything were to break I'd say it would be all user error, or something heavy dropped on them or they were crushed by a car or the hydraulic press that killed the terminator. The detachable headphone cable is a plus. Not sure why other reviews put this as a minus/con since they don't fall out at random times like they claim.

Comfort: 5/5, I have a small head (I wear a 7 1/8 fitted) and these feel like my ears a getting laid by a oiled up brazilian chick. I have taken a nap with these bad boys on and had no discomfort after the ear cups were broken in. They are so light and I love them.

Would I buy this again if it broke? Fcuk yea.

Overall: 5/5, no other headphone I've used/borrowed or owned comes close to these.

*also, I ordered these from Turntable Lab and I got hooked up with the extra cord for smartphone use.

[Cardell]

I saw a few weeks ago that DJF was back up, and today I was so bored I actually decided to stop lurking on the 2.0 board (and for that matter, other DJ-related boards) and wrote this review. I guess this is a productive first post. I'm happy to see so many old users back on the forum, and I'm glad to be back!

If you want pictures or videos there are plenty of them online, so here's a stock photo.



I'll only review headphone/IEMs I have at hand starting off with the Pioneer HDJ-2000, Shure SE535 and maybe lying around somewhere as a pair of spares, the AKG K518 LE (which only differs from the DJ version cosmetically and shorter cable).

The HDJ-2000s are as a pair of DJ headphones highly regarded by a larger part of the community with a lot of
solid points, but with some flaws often overlooked.

Manufacturer product sheet: http://www.pioneerdjusa.com/images/gear/pdf/HDJ2000.pdf

Sound: 4/5

The HDJ-2000s have a warm and very forward, yet clear mid range and solid bass with a good punch. Not only is the mid range accentuated, the bass from around 50 Hz and up is also enhanced, and this extends up to around 500 Hz, probably up to +5 dB SPL around 100Hz measured against the SPL at 1 kHz, which is highly noticeable. And while the bass is solid, it doesn't extend very to the lower frequencies, as the HDJ-2000s have a very steep bass rolloff. I suspect that from the 100 Hz mark down to the lower end of human hearing, the rolloff results in roughly a -20 dB drop, yes - it's a massive bass drop (pun somewhat intended, I'm sorry).

Furthermore, when Pioneer states the HDJ-2000s go down to 5 Hz, considering the bass rolloff, they clearly mean that it's possible to shoot a 5 Hz sine wave through them. While 5 Hz cannot be heard, it can definitely be felt. However, you will need a very hot signal for that, and it is not controlled at all - weird hissing mechanical noises can be heard. This has not been a limitation from any audio interface, I tried this with professional grade signal generators (which for the record was visually checked with an oscilloscope of similar quality) which I had at hand from my university. Conclusion: the deep bass is lacking due to a steep rolloff, and they definitely do not produce 5 Hz in an intended manner. I have no similar experience for the 30 kHz mark, I must have forgotten to look at it, or maybe I ran out of time.

The largest disappointment for leisure listening is the upper high range though. A lot of clarity disappears here, sounds becomes harsh and grainy at best. The upper high range is likely the largest flaw with the HDJ-2000's audio quality, it's what turned me away from them to look for alternatives, it's one of those things that once you hear and realize what's lacking you can't ignore it.

Another thing like that is the channel imbalance present in the HDJ-2000s, the left channel is slightly louder when run in stereo. Most people may actually never hear it, and just assume it's either one's own hearing or psyche (or a combination of both). This has been reported by several individuals on different forums, but I've yet to find any hard figures on how large the imbalance is.

The mono mode on the HDJ-2000s is probably the best passive mono summation switch I've heard in a pair of headphones ever. That being said, it does degrade sound quality, but hey - it's a mono switch for single ear monitoring (or whatever other reason one might need for leisure or professional listening), and there are much worse on-headphone mono summers.

This might sound a bit hard on the HDJ-2000's sound quality, and to be fair they are not audiophile headphones, but they're good sounding, warm and enjoyable save for the deepest bass (there are mods to enhance the deep bass) and the somewhat harsh upper high range. I still listen to them from time to time and use them when mixing at home, and I would recommend them for DJs in terms of audio quality, but they are sonically overrated on DJ forums. They are easily driven, and can handle a very strong signal. They don't sound muffled like a lot of cheaper headphones, but I definitely feel a an auditory' veil' between me and the music, some things just won't get through. That said, they're still a solid 4 out of 5 for DJs in the sound department.

Sound Isolation: 4/5

Isolation is another point where these headphones are good (better than the average on ear headphone), but even better isolation can be achieved, such as with Sennheiser's HD25s (which unlike the Pioneers are on ear, not over ear, a difference important noting). However, well fitting IEMs will isolate much better. Oh, and the HDJ-2000s leak quite a lot of sound, not that it's a problem on scene really.

Durability: 3/5

Wow, this will be a fun one. I've had my Pioneers repaired once since they broke in the plastic parts above the hinge. Yes the magnesium alloy is nice, it's never failed me, but the plastic has. After the repair, the cable started going bad (something I to be expected over time), an easy fix as it's detachable and replaceable. But after a few months, plastic cracks were starting to reappear on the new headband. This is also a very common problem with the HDJ-2000s, and possibly the biggest. Pioneer should have opted for a metal band surrounded by soft rubber instead of lots of plastic parts. Less is more, Pioneer. Less parts used, lower complexity, fewer repairs, more profit for you. Now there's a carrying case designed for them one can purchase, but it's too little, too late for this DJ.

Comfort: 5/5

In terms of comfort, I have yet to find any headphones that are more comfortable than the HDJ-2000s. I can literally wear this for every waking hour without any fatigue. They are super comfortable, highly adjustable, they don't get (sweaty) warm, they aren't super light - but the weight they have provides a solid feel. If there would be something to point out is that the cable can be a bit heavy and bulky, but to be perfectly honest, it's not a problem in the booth. It's more a problem if you use them as portable headphones and bring them with you. A 3m, heavy coiled cable with a bulky connector playing from your phone/PMP is a hassle at times. However, the cable is user replaceable, and there are plenty of shorter and lighter cables available (or one can easily make one).

Size: 4/5

The HDJ-2000s are over ear headphones, with a headband with room to grow, well cushioned, fluffy pads and a large cable - they're bound to be large. However, they are easily foldable and become very compact. Also, they are not bulky when you're wearing them, they actually feel slim.

Overall value: 4/5

Would I buy this again if it broke? There was a time when I'd say yes in a heartbeat, right now, as I've moved over to mixing with IEMs, it would more likely be no. Would I recommend them for a dj looking for a pair of over ear headphones? I would tell them about my own experience with them and their limitations. I realize it may seem I'm trying to bash on the HDJ-2000s as much as I can, but I'm not - they have a lot of ups, and they also have some (often ignored) downs. They are expensive, and right now if I would have to buy a pair of headphones (not IEMs) for DJing, I would probably investigate the Sennheiser HD25s a bit closer. Probably a backlash from the durability problems (the HD25s are more easily repaired by the user), but the few times I've listened to them they've been enjoyable. As stated earlier though, the Sennheisers are on ear, and not over ear, so it's a different beast altogether. (And this is not a permanent recommendation, just my own thoughts, subject to change, as of April 2012).

[Synergy]

fixed mine, sorry it took so long, i was in colorado training and just got back!

[dynamitedeluxe]

Anyone tried the Zomo HD-1200 already? Because i want me to buy a new headphone. I saw some pics of HD-1200 on the internet and liked it because of its design. I did some research. Especially in Germany i found a lot of reviews which all looked positive...most of them rated the Zomo between 4 or 5 of 5 stars. Thats really looks great, but to bad that i don t understand german. Anyone have the hp at home?

some reviews:

http://www.testberichte.de/r/produkt...-309742-1.html

Also the Zomo was voted to best headphone on beatmagazine

[JFunk]

Anyone tried the Zomo HD-1200 already? Because i want me to buy a new headphone. I saw some pics of HD-1200 on the internet and liked it because of its design. I did some research. Especially in Germany i found a lot of reviews which all looked positive...most of them rated the Zomo between 4 or 5 of 5 stars. Thats really looks great, but to bad that i don t understand german. Anyone have the hp at home?

I Have tried some of those - they are pretty well put together and come with lots of accessories. If you like lots of bass then you will like these but I felt the bass was a bit overblown and muddied the mids which made it more difficult to mix for me as I tend to mix on the mids. I know a couple of people who have had them for a couple of years and they have survived well so they must be quite durable and they are a sensible price. They are also massive - some of the biggest headphones I'v ever warn. I would say they are good value for money but it may be worth paying a bit more if for something like the HDJ-500 which have similar styling but crisper sound and more usable size

[JFunk]

I'v just started playing with a couple of Beyerdynamic models so thought I would give a quick review

Beyerdynamic DT1350



Sound: 5/5 - I have been lucky enough to try most DJ headphones at some point and i think these are definitely the clearest and most detailed closed backed headphones I have used. The thing you really notice other than the detail is how accurate they are at the low end - it really takes you by surprise when you hear the sub bass without muddying the sound.

Sound Isolation: 4/5 - Beyerdynamic developed new pads for these that mold really well to your ears to block out a lot of external noise - I would say they isolate slightly better than the HD25 but not as much as the HD280.

Durability: 4/5 - The headband is of metal construction and feels very solid - they don't have a detachable cable so that is probably their week point, the cable can ve changed but you need to solder it in place. I have not been brave enough to really throw them around but being metal I suspect they could be dented rather than bouncing like the HD25s do

Comfort: 4/5 - They are nice and light with a split headband for extra comfort - I do find that the super squishy earpas form such a good seal on my ears that the cause a bit of suction when I remove them which is a little uncomfortable for a second but I have played some 6hr sets with them with no discomfort.

Size: Small - possibly the smallest pro dj headphones

Would I buy this again if it broke? - If I could afford it... For may years I have been playing with HD25s and they are fine headphones but these are worth the extra - they will blow your mind but empty your wallet

Overall value: 4/5 - I would have given 5/5 but they have an RRP of £275 which is undeniably pricey but they are the best sounding headphones I have tried


TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Transducer type . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dynamic
Operating principle . . . . . . . . . . Closed
Frequency response . . . . . . . . . . 5 - 30,000 Hz
Nominal impedance. . . . . . . . . . 80 Ω
Sound pressure level . . . . . . . . . 109 dB
Max. SPL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 dB
T.H.D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . < 0.2%
Power handling capacity . . . . . . 100 mW
Sound coupling to the ear . . . . . Supraaural
Ambient noise attenuation. . . . . approx. 23 dBA
Nominal headband pressure. . . . approx. 5.5 N
Cable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.5 m / single-sided
Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gold plated mini stereo jack
plug (3.5 mm) and 1/4" adapter
(6.35 mm)
Weight (without cable) . . . . . . . 174 g

I have only just started modding them so not sure of all the option yet but they definitely have some good potential
http://dj-jfunk.deviantart.com/#/d577hes

[Jason Cerna]

i've been under a rock the past few months. i will update this asap.

[Phil Noize]

.

Beyerdynamic DT1350s

I know Beyerdynamic DT770s are held in very high esteem by many European DJs and sound engineers, so when the more compact DT1350s were released with Tesla technology, I was very curious. I’ve been itching to get my hands on a pair for a few months now, so after reading a few reviews, some of which were good and some exceptional, I sold my V-Moda LP12s and splashed out the extra cash for a pair.

First Impressions … Wow, these things are tiny! I expected them to be small, but their compact size really took me by surprise. Even in the case that is supplied, they aren’t going to be space hogs in my gig bag.


Sound: 5/5 Upon first listen, I was a bit disappointed. I expected an enormous rich sound which the Beyers didn’t seem to deliver. However, the more I listened the more their quality started to shine through. They deliver a sound with clarity the likes of which I’ve never come across before in a pair of DJ headphones. It’s like comparing cheap hifi speakers with top-of-the-line studio reference monitors. The highs are crisp and clear, really showing you the detail of sounds like cymbals. Mid-range is un-muddied and bright. The bass seems bottomless and punchy, but doesn’t swamp the rest of the sound. It’s a precise analytical sound. They make the sound seem transparent, enabling you to see exactly how to fit the tunes together. I can mix more easily and more accurately with these, and I can see why they are marketed as a Sound Engineering/Sound Recording/Pro DJing headphone.

When I tried them against my Pioneer HDJ2000s to see how they compared, it was like chalk and cheese. I never thought I’d describe the 2000s as muddy, but it was like wading through a swamp compared to the little Beyers.

Next up was Sennheiser's HD-25 IIs. The Senns are definitely a detailed headphone, but not as detailed as the Beyers. The bass is slightly exaggerated on the 25s, and seems to detract from the mids slightly. The top end is also not quite as crisp as the Beyers.

To conclude the DT1350s sound absolutely amazing!!


Sound Isolation: 4/5 I usually prefer over-ear phones, as my ears are slightly strangely shaped (I guess all ears are different!). I find the Beyers with their memory foam pads perfect on my left ear, and not quite perfect on my right ear, otherwise I would have given them 5/5. For an on-ear phone, they are excellent.

Durability: 4.5/5 This is only an impression, as time will tell just how durable they really are, and I’ve only had them a couple of weeks. They ooze quality without being over the top. There’s no polished flashy bits on these cans, but the metal construction of the headband and pivots seems totally purposeful. They scream German precision. The only aspect that might be perceived as negative is the fact that the cable doesn’t unplug from the phones, but this might also be perceived as a positive, since placing a plug and socket in them only provides a further obstruction in the path of the signal. This may seem negligible, but from a sound engineering or audiophile perspective, it’s a good thing. Anyway, Beyer claim the tough polyurethane cable withstands over 20N of force (like hanging roughly 2kg on it). For me, I’ve never broken a cable yet, but if I do I’m not averse to getting my soldering iron out to replace one.


Comfort: 5/5 The soft memory foam ear-pads and memory foam pads on the headband are very comfortable, definitely more comfortable than the HD-25 IIs, as they exert less pressure on the ears. I can wear the Beyers for hours with no discomfort whatsoever. They can be worn in almost any position. The headband splits, and ear-cups pivot forwards and backwards like the HD25 II. However, the cups also swivel to allow on-the-shoulder monitoring … something you can’t do with the Senns, unless you go for the cheaper SP model.




Size: 5/5 I’m not sure how to give a mark on this. The phones are tiny, without a doubt the smallest pro DJ/Sound Engineering phones I’ve used. When you drop them around your neck between mixing, there’s no bulky ear-cups digging in your chin or collar bone.

Beyer also provide you with a very high quality custom ballistic nylon case. The headphones fit in there in a flat position, and the cable folds into its own space. There’s also a couple of pockets in there where you can store adaptors etc, or even a small headphone amp. And the whole package takes up much less space than my old HDJ2000s … win!




Overall Value: 3.5/5 Would I buy these again if they broke? Well, at the price point these suckers come in at, I’d probably try to fix them first. They’re truly excellent cans, but the price is pretty darned high. Having said that, clearly the money is spent on the Beyer’s new Tesla drivers rather than flashy bits. If you are looking for best, I would say that these are the new contenders. My HDJ2000s just got demoted to spare cans.


Technical Spec: I'm not going to cover this as JFunk has already covered it in his review two posts above.


If you want a pair for a decent price, drop a PM to JFunk and he'll do you a favourable deal.

His website ... http://www.customcans.co.uk/


[Editted to add a direct sound & comfort comparison with Sennheiser's HD25 IIs.]