Audiophilepure

https://www.whathifi.com/us/reviews/focal-clear-mg

Rhythms are delivered in a surefooted and controlled manner rather than with overt exuberance, but there’s still enough in the way of drive to keep us entertained. The overall presentation retains an easy-going charm that makes longer listening sessions a breeze.

The Focal’s transparency is highlighted by the sizable lift in performance when we switch to our reference Naim streamer/Burmester amplifier combo. Here, we’re aware of a greater sense of control and dynamic expression. There’s clearly even more information and we’re pleased with the way the Focals arrange it with control and composure.

HIFIMAN has done well with the R10D headphones. It’s clear the company is going to make more dynamic drivers for a variety of price points, but they have not sacrificed audio quality with the R10D. I continue to have some reservations about the smoothness of the middle frequencies, which do not sound as smooth as comparably priced headphones from the same company. It may be the response curves of dynamic drivers versus planars, but whatever it is to my ears, especially on acoustic instruments, the mid-range needs some tweaking. The Bluetooth connectivity is most welcome, freeing listeners from the headphone cord while giving away little of ultimate sound quality.

https://www.whathifi.com/us/reviews/grado-sr325x

Grado’s Prestige series models have rarely felt like luxury headphones, and nothing has changed with this new generation. It’s an impression that starts with the packaging, which is still a basic cardboard box, and extends to the rather coarse foam used for the also new thinner earpads. If you’re looking for a premium feel you’re not going to find it here.

But you will find ruggedness and durability. We have used numerous pairs of Grado Prestige headphones over the years and they have needed little more than semi-regular earpad changes to keep going. Those foam earpads don’t last forever, but they are easily changed and don’t cost much to replace. The basic structure of the headphones and materials chosen are impressively robust and deal with day-to-day use superbly.

Well, I can very safely say that these new ribbon drivers by Audeze hit the ball out of the park! Billy’s piano playing has never sounded better or more life-like than what I experienced with this setup! The midrange was meaty and upfront with an incredible amount of detail that just left me smiling from ear to ear! The treble was in perfect proportion to the lower frequencies and seemed to dance on top of the midrange with such an airy and delicate balance that very much reminded me of an electro-static presentation. Yes, it does appear that you can have your cake and eat it too

Sound reproduction was explosive and dynamic. The Diamond had nailed the midrange and the treble and bass were outstanding. The transducer’s ability to extract detail was exceptional.

The Diamond’s strengths far outweigh any deficiency. Is it perfect? I have heard better layering in soundstage but usually with much higher priced headphones. Priced at $1999 this is a sure bet for any enthusiast looking for exceptional top-tier performance.