shop recommendations: headphones

LAB POINTS

• simple and organic design
• 3 Button in-line Microphone with call/music/volume control
• sound quality is fine tuned by C4 Studios and offers a full-spectrum from the deepest bass to high-frequency tones
• earphone sleeves deliver external noise reduction for clearer sound at safer volume levels
• includes three sets of earphone sleeves for an accurate fit and different levels of external noise reduction

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

The Pipe Earphone offers impressive sound quality and overall strength in an organic and ergonomic design. Made from lightweight and highly resilient materials this earphone displays an elegant coherency between the overall design and the individual parts. The 9mm precision-engineered driver provides a highly detailed full-spectrum sound experience from the softest bass to the crispiest high notes.

TECH SPECS

• Driver unit size: 9 mm
• Impedance: 16 ohm
• Sensitivity: 106dB/mW at 1K Hz
• Frequency Respons: 20-20K Hz
• Rated power input: 4 mW
• Maximum power input: 20 mW

COMES WITH

• (3) sets of ear sleeves

May TMA Sale! Save 15% on TMA-1 DJ Headphones. Sale ends May 31st.

LAB POINTS

Years in the making, the TMA-1 DJ Headphone is probably the most well thought-out dj headphones ever designed. Drawing input from an impressive DJ roster list (2Manydjs, A-Trak, Flying Lotus, James Murphy to name a few) AIAIAI and Danish design firm KibiSi have specifically addressed all the headphone needs of the DJ and more. Plus, the minimalist, modern design in itself is stunning. Lab recommended.

• rich quality sound from high quality audio components
• (2) interchangeable headphone cushions: (1) higher isolation pair for noisy clubs, (1) standard pair for everyday use
• internal speakers are fully protected
• strong, flexible headband
• headphone cord coil for extra give
• detachable headphone cord
• black rubberized finish
• check the Labheads that use the TMA-1

The Shop Says...

We all use these and so should you. For DJing or commuting the sound quality, durability, and lightness are a rare combination in headphones.

MANUFACTURER's REVIEW

The one-piece TMA-1 headband consists of a strong, durable and flexible nylon material, which provides full flexibility when wearing and positioning the headphones during DJing. The two different cushions can be changed easily with the click release function, so the headphones fit all situations- from a noisy club environment to just being on the road. The speaker is protected by the cushion plate with integrated filter and provides the richest sound that is available today along with the most durable driver technology. Finally, there is a 3mm cotton fiber filter for isolation and the headphone cup out of a resistant ABS material to protect the fragile parts. The 1.7 meter cable has a mini jack connection in both ends as well as a reinforced plug with a 1/8 adapter option. It has a 0.4 meter coil on the wire, which gives extra length and flexibility at the turntable.

The name TMA-1 (Tycho Magnetic Anomaly-1) is taken from Arthur C. Clarke's science fiction novel "2001: A Space Odyssey" and refers to a black Monolith, which is extremely long-lived and reliable just as the TMA-1.

KEY FEATURES

• Transducer Principle: Dynamic, closed - Driver Unit Size: 40mm
• Impedance: 32+/-15% Ohm
• Load Rating: 0.1W
• Frequency Response: 20 to 20.000 Hz
• Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.3%
• Sensitivity: 110+/-3dB Weight w/o
• Cable: 190 Gram

COMES WITH

• 2 sets of earpads
• carrying pouch
• booklet
• 1.7 meter coiled cable
• 6.3 mm stereo plug converter

FOR MORE INFO

• checkout our guide to TMA-1 headphones

May TMA Sale! Save 15% on TMA-1 DJ Headphones with Mic. Sale ends May 31st.

LAB POINTS

Years in the making, the TMA-1 DJ Headphone is probably the most well thought-out dj headphones ever designed. Drawing input from an impressive DJ roster list (2Manydjs, A-Trak, Flying Lotus, James Murphy to name a few) AIAIAI and Danish design firm KibiSi have specifically addressed all the headphone needs of the DJ and more. Plus, the minimalist, modern design in itself is stunning. Lab recommended.

• includes both straight cable with 3 button control and coiled DJ cable
• rich quality sound from high quality audio components
• (2) interchangeable headphone cushions: (1) higher isolation pair for noisy clubs, (1) standard pair for everyday use
• internal speakers are fully protected
• strong, flexible headband
• headphone cord coil for extra give
• detachable headphone cord
• black rubberized finish
• check the Labheads that use the TMA-1

MANUFACTURER's REVIEW

The one-piece TMA-1 headband consists of a strong, durable and flexible nylon material, which provides full flexibility when wearing and positioning the headphones during DJing. The two different cushions can be changed easily with the click release function, so the headphones fit all situations- from a noisy club environment to just being on the road. The speaker is protected by the cushion plate with integrated filter and provides the richest sound that is available today along with the most durable driver technology. Finally, there is a 3mm cotton fiber filter for isolation and the headphone cup out of a resistant ABS material to protect the fragile parts. The 1.7 meter cable has a mini jack connection in both ends as well as a reinforced plug with a 1/8 adapter option. It has a 0.4 meter coil on the wire, which gives extra length and flexibility at the turntable.

The name TMA-1 (Tycho Magnetic Anomaly-1) is taken from Arthur C. Clarke's science fiction novel "2001: A Space Odyssey" and refers to a black Monolith, which is extremely long-lived and reliable just as the TMA-1.

KEY FEATURES

• Transducer Principle: Dynamic, closed - Driver Unit Size: 40mm
• Impedance: 32+/-15% Ohm
• Load Rating: 0.1W
• Frequency Response: 20 to 20.000 Hz
• Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.3%
• Sensitivity: 110+/-3dB Weight w/o
• Cable: 190 Gram

COMES WITH

• 2 sets of earpads
• carrying pouch
• booklet
• 2 sets of cords - 1 straight w/ 3-button mic, 1 coiled
• 6.3 mm stereo plug converter

FOR MORE INFO

• checkout our guide to TMA-1 headphones

May TMA Sale! Save 15% on TMA-1 Studio Headphones. Sale ends May 31st.

LAB POINTS

• TMA-1 Studio Headphones are specially designed for studio work, music production, DJing, and everyday listening
• based on the TMA-1 DJ headphones, our most popular DJ headphone
• designed for comfort with large, over-the-ear earpads and extra-padding in the headband
• sound output is tuned for a neutral / flat response, which is optimal for studio work and sound mixing
• flexible yet very durable design
• includes both foam (isolating) and synthetic leather ear pads (for DJing)
• includes detachable coiled headphone cord
• includes zippered carrying pouch
• rubberized, matte black finish
• check the Labheads that use the TMA-1

TMA-1 Studio vs. TMA-1 DJ Headphones

• over-ear design vs. on-ear design
• newly-designed, larger ear pads
• more padding in headband for more comfort during extended sessions
• neutral / flat response sound output

LAB REVIEW

The TMA-1 Studio Headphones are based on our most popular and bestselling DJ headphone, the TMA-1 DJ Headphones. The Studio model takes all the proven strengths of the TMA-1 and adds the studio monitor functionality. The two main features of a quality studio monitor are comfort (for long critical listening sessions) and a neutral / flat sound output (we'll explain this later in review). In terms of comfort, the Studios feature enlarged, over-the-ear ear cups that come in both foam and synthetic leather. The foam ear cups are better for sound isolation, while the synthetic leather ones give you a bit more comfort. In terms of sound response, the Studios deliver a quality flat output, meaning the sound is equally balanced between low, mid, and high frequencies. When you create music, you want to make sure your sound is flat to ensure it sounds good on all systems. Think of it as the baseline, so when someone plays your song on a boombox or a high end stereo system, your sound will be balanced (the user can always up the bass or treble).

What does a flat response actually sound like? In terms of the TMA-1 Studios, for everyday usage you probably won't notice the difference. In fact, the Studios will sound crisp and clear, much better than most standard headphones out there. For DJing, you will not notice much of a difference except a bit less bass (but still plenty enough to DJ with). The label "studio montiors" should not dissuade you from purchasing these for any application. The bottom line is that they sound great and they would be awesome to have on your desk or in the airport. Please Note that studio monitors like these are "big" headphones, they may not be the best for everyday commuters. 

KEY FEATURES

• 40mm dynamic titanium drivers
• 20 - 20K Frequency Response
• 32 +/-15% Ohm Impeadance
• weighs approximately .5 lbs (220 g) without cable
• angled 3.5mm plug with 1/4" adaptor
• 5.25" (1.6m) detachable coiled cord

COMES WITH

• 1/4" adaptor
• zippered carrying pouch
• (1) pair foam earpads (pre-mounted)
• (1) pair synthetic leather earpads

LAB REVIEW

Bellari's HA 540 Class A Tube amp delivers true audiophile sound for under $300. This amp is capable of driving headphones rated at 16 - 2000Ohms and features two separate inputs (one each high and low output level source components) to guarantee lush, high quality sound connected to any audio source (CD Player, ipod, mp3 player, computer, etc.). Experience the warm, sound of tubes through your headphones with the HA 540 without breaking the bank.

KEY FEATURES

• Input Impedance: 47k ohms
• Output Impedance: 16 ohms
• Max Output Level: +15dBv @ 1kHz at .1% dist.
• THD: .05% @ 1kHz
• S/N Ratio: >80dB unweighted
• Indicator: 1 power LED
• Max Output Power: up to 500 mW/side, 1 W/stereo (@16 Ohms)
• Frequency Response: 5 Hz
• 30 kHz
• Phase Shift (In to Out): 0 dB
• Crosstalk:
• 75 dB
• Headphone Impedance: 16 Ohms
• 2000 Ohms
• Max Input Level: +15 dBV
• Input Connectors: Low: RCA, 3.5mm stereo,High: RCA
• Outputs: 1: 1/4" TRS Stereo jack, 1: 3.5 mm TRS stereo jack
• Power: 15 VDC
• 700mA
• Size: 6w x 2.5h x 5.4d in.
• Weight: 2 lb.

LAB POINTS

• Lab Bestseller
• industry standard for professionals
• clear, powerful bass
• great sound isolation
• high maximum sound pressure level
• suitable for DJing, studio, and casual listening
• designed to be comfortable for long periods of time
• long, detachable cable (5 ft.)
• lightweight (weighs approx .5 lbs)
• 2 year warranty
• Lab Recommended

TECH SPECS

• frequency response:  16 - 22,000 Hz
• load rating: 0.2 mW stereo
• sound pressure level: 120 dB (SPL)
• nominal impedance: 70 ohm

MANUFACTURER's REVIEW

The closed-back HD 25-1 II purpose-designed, professional monitoring headphones offer high attenuation of background noise. Capable of handling very high sound pressure levels and of extremely robust construction, these headphones perform exceptionally well in high-noise environments, e.g. ENG, sound reinforcement, studio monitoring and audio equipment testing. The capsule is rotatable for one-ear listening. Ideal monitoring headphones for cameramen and DJs.

COMES WITH

• (2) sets of earpads (leather and felt)
• carrying bag
• 1/4" adaptor

LAB POINTS

• Technics' top of the line DJ headphone
• loud output for club djing; designed to deliver clear, high-quality sound even at very high volumes 
• rugged design, reinforced joints
• comfortable fit
• swivel earpiece design
• folding design for transport 
• removable cord, locks into place 
• includes carrying pouch 

OUR OPINION

The RP-DH1200 is Technics' newest headphone model. In addition to the sleek design (check the polished, reflective ear pieces and signature Technics strobe dot design), the RP-DH1200 boasts a higher output and wider frequency range than the hugely popular 1200A model. Another improvement is the one-sided detachable cord, which eliminates a major source of headphone breakage and repair. Lastly, the RP-DH1200 is a very comfortable headphone with generously sized ear cups and soft padding. Recommended.

KEY FEATURES

• Large Diameter (50mm) Driver Units
• High 3,500mW Input Power
• Frequency Response 5Hz-30kHz

COMES WITH

• carrying pouch

LAB POINTS

• deadstock colorway
  
• industry standard DJ headphone
• rugged design 
• loud output for club djing; designed to deliver clear, high-quality sound even at very high volumes 
• 4 direction adjustable, swivel earpiece design 
• folding design for transport 
• includes carrying pouch 
• coiled cord

OUR OPINION

We got a hold of this deadstock colorway of the popular Technics RP-DJ1200 headphone (it has not been available for a couple years). The only differences between this and the DJ1200a are the black colorway and the straight headphone cord (the DJ1200a has a coiled cord). The RP-DJ1200A has been our best selling high-end DJ headphone for several years straight. Professional DJs require rugged design and loud output in their headphones, and these delivers both. Recommended.

KEY FEATURES

• Driver units: 41mm (1 5/8in.) diameter 
• Frequency response: 8Hz - 30kHz 

INCLUDES

• carrying pouch

LAB POINTS

• industry standard DJ headphone
• rugged design 
• loud output for club djing; designed to deliver clear, high-quality sound even at very high volumes 
• 4 direction adjustable, swivel earpiece design 
• folding design for transport 
• includes carrying pouch 
• coiled cord

OUR OPINION

The RP-DJ1200A has been our best selling high-end DJ headphone for several years straight. Professional DJs require rugged design and loud output in their headphones, and the 1200A delivers both. Recommended.

KEY SPECS

• Driver units: 41mm (1 5/8in.) diameter 
• Frequency response: 8Hz - 30kHz 

INCLUDES

• carrying pouch

LAB POINTS

• compact in-ear design
• handmade 9mm drivers
• 3 sets of sleeves included to ensure a perfect fit
• tangle resistant fabric and TPE cord
• snap together construction connects around your neck when not in use
• compatible with iPhone, blackberry, HTC and more

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

The Bagis is a compact version of the full Urbanears experience. It's an earplug construction for a direct sound and efficient noise reduction. It features rubber housing along with a combined fabric and TPE cord to eliminate distortions caused by friction. As a bonus each earpiece snaps together, allowing you to carry them around your neck when not in use. So now you know where they're at.

KEY FEATURES

• 9mm handmade drver unit
• Sensitivity: 107 dB
• Impedance: 16 Ohms
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• alternate search term "urban ears"
  

COMES WITH

• 3 sets of sleeves (S, M, L) for the perfect fit

LAB POINTS

• patented Earclick fit design improves overall earphone experience (read below)
• mic + remote feature compatible with iPhone, Blackberry, and most mobile devices
• solid sound specs
• 47" fabric wrapped cord prevents tangles
• interchangeable pads for customized fit

LAB REVIEW

Urbanears Medis are a new style of earphones that are somewhere between in-ear style and traditional earbuds, and introduce the revolutionary "earclick" fit. The patented Earclick solution solves the problem of earbuds falling out of your ears without you having to stuff your ear canal with a sleeve of some kind, like in-ear style buds require. This is achieved with ergonomically shaped buds that secure to two separate points of your outer ear, relieving pressure to a nearly non-existent level while sticking firmly in place. It comes with interchangeable pads in four sizes to ensure the perfect fit. Additionally, the Medis rests a small distance from your ear canal and therefore doesn't affect your sense balance. Of course, the Medis also features slick monochromatic design, like all Urbanears, as well as and features inline mic and remote compatiblbe with most devices from Nokia, Blackberry, and iPhone.

KEY FEATURES

• 15.4mm handmade drver unit
• Sensitivity: 96 dB
• Impedance: 32 Ohms
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• mic + remote compatible with iPhone, Nokia, Blackberry
• alternate search term "urban ears"
  

KEY FEATURES

• 4 interchangeable Earclick pads for perfect fit

LAB POINTS

• can be folded as small as your fist for ultimate portability
• one earcap features a "zound plug," which allows your friend to plug their headphones into yours so you can both enjoy the same sounds
• slick monochromatic design with no logos
• 47" fabric wrapped cord prevents tangles
• 36mm drivers

LAB REVIEW

Urbanears' Plattan headphones are classic style headphones that can be folded as small as your fist for ultimate portability. The handmade 36mm drivers provide great sound reproduction, and one earcap features a "zound plug," which allows your friend to plug their headphones into yours so you can both enjoy the same sounds. The cord is wrapped in fabric to help prevent tangles. Great for anyone who's looking for a stylish pair of day-to-day headphones.

KEY FEATURES

• 36mm handmade drver unit
• Sensitivity: 112 dB
• Impedance: 32 Ohms
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• mic + remote compatible with iPhone
• alternate search term "urban ears"
  

LAB POINTS

• can be folded as small as your fist for ultimate portability
• on-cord mic, remote and volume control feature compatible with iPhone
• one earcap features a "zound plug," which allows your friend to plug their headphones into yours so you can both enjoy the same sounds
• slick monochromatic design with no logos
• 47" fabric wrapped cord prevents tangles
• 36mm drivers

LAB REVIEW

Urbanears' Plattan headphones are classic style headphones that can be folded as small as your fist for ultimate portability. The handmade 36mm drivers provide great sound reproduction, and one earcap features a "zound plug," which allows your friend to plug their headphones into yours so you can both enjoy the same sounds. The cord is wrapped in fabric to help prevent tangles, and features a microphone, remote and volume control (a feature unique to the PLUS model) that's compatible with many portable devices, including iPhone, iPad, and iPod. Great for anyone who's looking for a stylish pair of day-to-day headphones.

KEY FEATURES

• 36mm handmade drver unit
• Sensitivity: 112 dB
• Impedance: 32 Ohms
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• mic + remote compatible with iPhone
• alternate search term "urban ears"
  

LAB POINTS

• retro looks meets modern functionality
• mic + remote feature compatible with iPhone, Blackberry, and most mobile devices
• fits all head sizes
• 47" fabric cord
• interchangeable pads for customized fit

LAB REVIEW

Urbanears' Tanto headphones take the classic 80's over-the-head walkman style and update it with a minimal modern look and today's technology. Designed for maximum mobility without compromise of performance, the Tanto sports flexible size adjustment to fit any size dome piece, 36mm handmade driver units, 47" fabric cord, and remote/mic compatible with most Nokia, Blackberry, HTC and iPhone. A slick pair for everyday use.

KEY FEATURES

• 37mm handmade driver unit
• Frequency response: 20-20kHz
• Impedance: 32 ohms
• Sensitivity: 118dB
• microphone and remote compatible with most devices such as Nokia, Blackberry, HTC and iPhone
• alternate search term "urban ears"