I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing many high-end headphones, however few have left me as impressed as the brand new Fostex TH1100RP. These flagship open-back headphones from the famend Japanese audio firm Fostex have set a brand new commonplace on this planet of premium audio gear. Priced at $2,699.99, the TH1100RP represents the head of Fostex’s engineering prowess and dedication to audio excellence.
Design and Construct High quality
The second I laid eyes on the TH1100RP, I knew I used to be in for one thing particular. Fostex has crafted these headphones with meticulous consideration to element, utilizing premium supplies that not solely look gorgeous but additionally contribute to their distinctive efficiency.
On the coronary heart of the TH1100RP lies the RP Planar driver, a know-how that Fostex has been perfecting since its inception in 1974. This driver is the results of many years of refinement, and it reveals within the audio high quality these headphones ship.
One of many first issues I seen when dealing with the TH1100RP was its surprisingly mild weight. Fostex has employed magnesium mechanical components to maintain the load all the way down to round 420 grams. This considerate design selection makes a big distinction in consolation throughout prolonged listening classes.
The earcups are a murals in themselves. Crafted from maple wooden and dyed utilizing the normal Awa Aizome indigo dyeing method, they exude a way of expertise that is not often seen in trendy audio gear. In individual, the colour seems darker than in images, however the end is totally putting. Whereas aesthetics are subjective, I discover the TH1100RP to be an extremely enticing headphone.
Consolation is paramount for any flagship headphone, and Fostex has nailed it with the TH1100RP. The premium leather-based headband and ultra-soft leather-based earpads are a pleasure to put on. I discovered myself capable of pay attention for hours with none discomfort. The earpads, specifically, are among the many softest inventory earpads I’ve encountered in current reminiscence. They supply a superb seal with out making use of extreme clamping power, putting the proper stability between isolation and luxury.
Sound High quality
Now, let’s dive into what actually issues: the sound. The Fostex TH1100RP delivers an audio expertise that lives as much as its flagship standing.
Soundstage and Imaging
The soundstage of the TH1100RP is spectacular, particularly contemplating its heat total signature. Whereas it might not match the analytical width of one thing just like the HD800s, the spaciousness remains to be outstanding. What actually stands out is the imaging functionality of those headphones. They create a holographic sound that locations devices and vocals with pinpoint accuracy.
To check this, I listened to “Alison” by Slowdive, a monitor identified for its spacey, reverb-heavy soundscape. The TH1100RP reproduced the tune’s attribute “tender focus” impact superbly, sustaining readability within the vocals and devices regardless of the moist, closely processed sound. The extensive guitars and reverb-drenched voices had been introduced with wonderful definition, showcasing the headphone’s capability to deal with advanced, layered recordings.
Bass Response
Fostex headphones are sometimes praised for his or her bass efficiency, and the TH1100RP continues this custom with aplomb. The low-end response is incredible, with a sub-bass extension that surpasses many different open-back headphones on this value vary.
There is a beneficiant quantity of mid-bass and excessive bass, which contributes to the general heat character of the headphones. Whereas they will ship punchy bass when the quantity is turned up, I would not describe them as overwhelmingly sub-bass heavy. As a substitute, the bass is well-balanced, offering heat with out dominating the combo.
To essentially put the bass via its paces, I listened to “Frantic Disembowelment” by Cannibal Corpse. The TH1100RP dealt with the monitor’s intense, saturated guitar tones with spectacular readability, sustaining the booming character whereas permitting extra element to shine via than I am used to listening to on most headphones.
For bass fans searching for a refined listening expertise that does not sacrifice low-end influence, the TH1100RP is a superb selection. It jogged my memory of an LCD-2, however with improved readability and the same expansive soundstage.
Midrange Efficiency
The midrange of the TH1100RP is the place issues get actually fascinating. There is a fantastic sweetness and physique to the mids that offers vocals and devices a lifelike presence. Whereas there’s a slight V-shaped character to the general frequency response, it is extra nice than dramatic, permitting the midrange to stay targeted and clear.
Vocal copy is especially spectacular. Male vocals have a satisfying growl when the music requires it, whereas feminine vocals retain their definition and sweetness. The transients within the midrange are quick, contributing to an extremely clear sound.
I examined the midrange capabilities with “Scrapple from the Apple” carried out by Sonny Connie Kay, Richard Davis, John Lewis, Jim Corridor, and Sonny Stitt. The alto saxophone’s glassy character was superbly rendered, with the added heat of the TH1100RP complementing the instrument’s tone completely.
For a distinct vocal take a look at, I turned to “Sposa Son Disprezzata” carried out by Cecilia Bartoli and György Fischer. The TH1100RP’s dynamic capabilities undoubtedly shines right here, capturing the nuances of Bartoli’s highly effective efficiency with outstanding readability. The headphones struck a superb stability between sweetness and physique within the alto vary.
Excessive-Frequency Efficiency
The high-frequency response of the TH1100RP provides a contact of airiness to the general sound signature with out ever changing into harsh or fatiguing. There’s simply sufficient sparkle to convey out the shine in cymbals, add presence to brilliant vocals, and reveal delicate particulars in advanced mixes.
To essentially take a look at the treble efficiency, I listened to “Human Murmuration” by Archspire, a monitor identified for its sharp, detailed combine. The TH1100RP dealt with the monitor’s depth with grace, presenting the intricate guitar work and cymbal hits with readability whereas sustaining an ideal stability of mid-range fullness and high-end element.
Probably the most spectacular features of the TH1100RP’s high-frequency efficiency is its lack of sibilance. After a protracted rehearsal session the day before today, high-gain amps left my ears feeling delicate. I used to be nonetheless capable of take heed to the TH1100RP for hours with none discomfort. This speaks volumes in regards to the headphone’s refined treble response contemplating I’m pretty delicate to highs.
Enhancements and Comparisons
It is price noting that Fostex has made a number of enhancements for the reason that launch of the TH-808 six months in the past. Whereas the interior elements stay unchanged, the match, headband, and cable have all seen upgrades. The cable, specifically, feels extra sturdy and of upper high quality total. It is much less stiff than the earlier cloth-wrapped cable and is really worthy of a flagship headphone.
When evaluating the TH1100RP to different headphones in its class, I discover it strikes a singular stability. It gives the heat and interesting bass response that Fostex is understood for, however with improved readability and a extra refined total presentation. When you’re unfamiliar with the Fostex home sound, think about an LCD-2 with enhanced readability and the same expansive soundstage.
Conclusion
The Fostex TH1100RP is a triumph of audio engineering and craftsmanship. It efficiently combines the heat and interesting character that Fostex headphones are identified for with a degree of refinement and element that places it squarely in flagship territory.
From its gorgeous design and premium construct high quality to its expansive soundstage, punchy but managed bass, candy midrange, and well-balanced treble, the TH1100RP excels in each facet. It is a headphone that may deal with any style clearly, revealing new particulars in acquainted tracks whereas by no means changing into fatiguing.
At $2,699.99, the TH1100RP represents a big funding. Nonetheless, for these looking for a flagship open-back headphone that provides a singular mix of heat, element, and luxury, it is a compelling and affordable choice contemplating the costs of Meze Empyrean II’s, LCD-5’s and so forth. Fostex has created a headphone that not solely sounds distinctive however can be a pleasure to put on for prolonged listening classes.
Whether or not you are a longtime audio fanatic or somebody trying to make their first foray into the world of high-end headphones, the Fostex TH1100RP deserves a severe audition. It is a headphone that reminds us why we fall in love with music within the first place, inviting us to rediscover our favourite tracks and discover new ones with recent ears.
Within the crowded discipline of flagship headphones, the Fostex TH1100RP stands out as a real audiophile’s delight. It isn’t only a headphone; it is an expertise – one which I consider will fulfill even probably the most discerning listeners for years to come back.
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