These headphones aren't new, but they ARE awesome! Sony MDR-Z1R review

[@rickym.5271]

I owned my pair for about 4 to 5 years. Its like listening to speakers with the frequency response of headphones. No shortage of bass that's for sure. Very comfortable for long listening sessions. A must for music lovers.

[@KipFox]

Glad to see some love for the Z1R. It is my favorite closed back by far and definitely a keeper

[@mikeg2491]

It was my very first TOTL headphone I ever bought so it will always have that sentimental value but it still holds up against my big boy Focal’s and Hifimans

[@PassionforSound]

100% on both counts

[@lazyreuvin]

Best Z1R review I have ever seen. What a fantastic update and comparison for 2024. It just shows if you have invested in the right audio gear, your set up can and will last your for years depsite more modern offerings coming out what seems like every other week.

[@PassionforSound]

So glad you liked it! I completely agree about the quality investment lasting for the long term. 🙂

[@raphaelmeillat8527]

Nice to see you cover some oldies but goodies! It was my first high end headphones a few years back and it remains one of my favorite pairs to this day! So comfortable for my head, ears and brain!

[@spamcan9208]

Honestly if something sounded good a few years ago, it should still sound good now.

[@sjqideez6626]

Based

[@martyn_g]

People tend to get all excited over something new and shiny😂

[@PassionforSound]

I agree on both counts. A good sounding device is a good sounding device regardless of age. Unfortunately, we live in a world where a number of brands feel the need to produce new products on a monthly or yearly basis and it's created a culture of "new toy syndrome".

[@Josecunyat]

Capitalism, growth… there is no end… how we change that?

[@PassionforSound]

It would need for a LARGE number of people to stop buying new gear just because it's new and I doubt that will happen.

[@mrjohnsuen]

I have the MDR-Z1R for quite a few years now and yes I agree with your observations, the headphone is quite an unique closed back and for me this is a keep.

[@dynamic-audio]

I've been using the mdr z1r for about 2 years now. I have compared it against several closed backs including the focal stellia. I think the z1r is a pretty special headset. And although its technical specifications indicate that it is easy to amplify, such a large driver is prone to several normal resonant modes. That is why since it arrived I wanted to test it delicately with different amplification modes. Listening to it on a source like a fiio m17, hugo 2, didn't give me a result that impressed me. However, if you put it at medium gain on a Burson Soloist 3xp or a 3x GT, I find that the dynamic range increases quite a bit, and the bass feels more controlled and less boomy, making it simply the best closed back I have ever had in my collection. . I am convinced that if it is not correctly amplified, the detail it can deliver and cleanliness is only ok, but if you amplify it a little more it becomes the same level as a focal clear and even superior in many aspects. greetings

[@michaellazaar1838]

What other closed backs did you compare the Sony against? I am very interested in this phone. I was seriously considering the ZMF Atrium closed although I might just buy this instead.

[@dynamic-audio]

@@michaellazaar1838 OMG, a lot of. I can not remember all of the, but i have a list with almost 120 headphones ranked in my channel. mmmmm ok. Let me remember some of the: Hifiman Audivina, Focal Radiance, Focal Stellia, Audeze LCD-XC, HE-r9, Fostex th610, thx00, Aeon closed,... i dont remember more. From ZMF, nothing. Each one has its own personallity. Best soundsatge audivina, best overall z1r and lcd-xc. Easy amplification and better treble focal stelia.. etc

[@michaellazaar1838]

@@dynamic-audio Thank you, I will take a look at your channel.

[@MadLadsAnonymous]

@@dynamic-audioHow's the Sony vs the Aune SR7000?

[@dynamic-audio]

@@MadLadsAnonymous i have never tried the aune, sorry friend

[@davidmthekidd]

I first fell in love with the Z1R headphones in 2017 but later sold them to explore other options. However, I couldn't shake my fondness for them and repurchased them in 2021. This reaffirmed my belief that they are my all-time favorite headphones. I paired mine with the TA-ZH1ES amp/dac.

[@PassionforSound]

I'm in the process of buying a pair very shortly for the same reason. I've missed them since they went back.

[@davidmthekidd]

@@PassionforSound you'll love them long term, a keeper for sure, the Lexus for your Ears.

[@thelastrhino2581]

Great review. You got the sound quality section so right. Exciting is the word.

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked it and thanks for the confirmation. It's always good to hear if I'm conveying things effectively 🙂

[@ingmarsjansons3665]

I had them 3 years ago, but I sold them, because I lived in house where i had hi-fi speaker setup what I listened most and I didn't use these headphones much, but now I moved to relatively small apartment where there are no proper space for my speaker setup and I have to switc to headphones, to enjoy hi-fi music experience. There are overwhelmingly lot of headphones in at upper end of market, all promising excellent listening experience and if one don't know what to choose, its hard to find out what model will truly satisfy, especially by researching different reviews, but these Sony model speaks for it self. Despite being old model, they are still holding their value on second hand marked and they are still well admired headphones by listeners all around the world. I just ordered one more pair of Z1R because they are simply fantastic sounding, very comfortable and overall so easy to enjoy! ✌️

[@PassionforSound]

I hope you enjoy your return to the Z1Rs. I am a little jealous 🙂

[@taidee]

I love the mood you were in when you created this video, thank you for upping up your game Lachlan. For people like me with big screen and higher res, 1080p videos always feel like yesterday. That headphone sounds like something I need 🤣.

[@PassionforSound]

It's a magnificent headphone - you won't be disappointed. This video does mark a permanent change in the channel so all future content will be 4k and will be presented and produced more like this. I hope you continue to enjoy the output. 🙂🙂

[@matthewweflen]

It's amazing how the community is slowly coming around on this headphone. After Tyll Herstens nearly killed it in the cradle (with a review that very few agreed with even then), people are actually listening for themselves with their own ears and skulls and almost everyone comes away enjoying the #$%& out of them.

[@PassionforSound]

I'd forgotten about Tyll's review of these, but it's great that people are still finding them and loving them.

[@springbay1]

Some say that the reason for Tyll going into hiding was his video on these

[@siruspan]

I've had the MDR-Z1R for like 2 years. I liked them so much for the premium feeling and the midrange to die for. Great for a closed back. Actually i liked them so much that I bought IER-Z1R. Unfrortunately that was the end for the MDR's as the IER turned out to be better in almost every aspect. The midrange is still better on the MDR's however when it comes to other aspect there is just no comparison.

[@PassionforSound]

I've got the IER-Z1R coming up for review very soon actually 🙂

[@quackgarage9551]

It blows my mind how people can possibly hate the Z1R and how badly it's ranked on those stupid tier lists. I love it and it's everything I ever wanted from a closed-back, plain and simple end game material.

[@PassionforSound]

I completely agree!

[@kato2395]

FINALLY, though I no longer want to buy headphones and is already satisfied with my collection now 😂 I have something to share too about this headphone. If you're planning to buy one, remember to buy a headband covering for this headphone because the headband is pleather and will crack overtime if exposed to sweat and oil. The earpad is supposed to be sheepskin but I saw a demo unit at Singapore with peeling earpads so I am not sure if it is real sheepskin or fake sheepskin. I don't think real leather should peel like that. The earpad is not that worrying though because it is replaceable, unlike the headband. It might be old but I think good headphone will be stay good for a very long time, this is why I don't mind spending a lot on a good pair of headphone!

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for the info. The pair I have here are a Sony demo pair that seem quite well used and they're still in excellent condition on the leather so perhaps they solved that

[@TechEtrix]

Sadly, I am experiencing exactly the same issue with my Sony Z1Rs. The headband has now slowly started to crack a bit, I just ordered my head beam covering...

[@TechEtrix]

Have had them for 4.5 years though and used them almost daily, often even for gaming (rather stupid in retrospective, but they sound SO awesome at basically everything you throw at them)...

[@PassionforSound]

@TechEtrix oh no! I just received the pair I ordered after sending back the demo pair. Sounds like I'll need to care for them extra well

[@darthmeesa2825]

Want to get the Z1Rs to pair with my walkman zx707 but was worried about the headband longevity. Even with covers the pleather will still degrade. Idk if I should get this or the zmf bokehs.

[@techmed-rainer]

Danke!

[@PassionforSound]

Thank you, Rainer!!

[@Dovndyr13]

Only been in the headphone hobby for 3 years and just bought the Z1R a few weeks ago. Its sound profile to my liking outperforme the Focal Radiance - the best closed back to my ears by Focal And yes I guess its vintage, since no SONY website has the Z1R in Europe (so it might be out of production). Maybe because SONY bought Audeze last year. Still I dont think the high end market has developed so much the last 5 years. HiFiMan Susvara, the HE1000 series, Sennheiser HE1 and many other still count as some of the worlds best not being the youngest

[@TechEtrix]

Amazing review, couldn't agree more with you! Had mine for 4.5 years and love them even more than day one. Only thing that doesn't age well (as somebody else already stated), is the leather head beam. Mine now slowly starts crackling... Just ordered a cover for it though, so I should be good to go for many many more years to come!

[@TechEtrix]

Follow-up question: how would you compare them to the Moondrop Para? Was considering getting a budget pair for everyday use to ensure longevity of my Sonys... Also, what do you think about the new Fiio FT1? I feel like they stole the fibunacci sequence shaped plastic cover of the drivers from the Z1R, so it could be rather interesting to compare the two, maybe they come out to be a budget clone of the Sony that get's you like 60-70% there?

[@PassionforSound]

I heard the FT1 the other day and they're not a bad headphone, but they sound like a much cheaper headphone (because they are 😁). The Paras get a little closer to the Z1Rs by having a bit more resolution and articulation, but not much can match the Z1R, especially in the closed back world.

[@TechEtrix]

@ thanks for your insights! Would you consider any budget open backs a cheap but decent alternative? I'm especially looking at the hifiman open box sales or something comparable

[@PassionforSound]

It's hard to say because you'll never match the Z1R sound. However, the HiFiMan Sundara is a consistently solid option at the price and the HE400SE is also strong, but lacks some bass compared to the Z1R and the Sundara. You could also check out the Sennheiser HD560S.

[@Armbrust210]

I think it's funny how Lachlan considers these almost vintage even though they've released just a year before the Susvara. But i do also somewhat get that feeling from them, just because they haven't been relevant since... ever. But they do have a certain fanbase that really loves them. And thats often an indicator for a great headphone. Now Sony just needs to get back into the Audiophile market. Maybe they'll leave that to Audeze tho. Will be interesting to see

[@chungang7037]

not relevant ever? 👀

[@PassionforSound]

We live in a world where there's a new model every 6 months (unfortunately) so headphones like these and Susvara are very rare. The Susvara gets discussed really regularly and has remained relevant as a result, but these don't and I think they should.

[@mikeg2491]

I’d argue it’s the last of a great line of headphones that didn’t try to imitate everyone else going for a typical neutral-bright sound signature. Variety is the spice of life.

[@chungang7037]

@@mikeg2491 Interesting point! They still exist, just harder to find. A lot of sivga and sendy headphones are accused of not following the BrightTrain as I like to call it. I demoed the Sendy Peacock right beside the Sony Z1R and I probably would have gotten the Z1R but it was almost 1000USD more. I think the only thing that hasn't aged well is the price.☺

[@ElvenSpellmaker]

I absolutely love this headphone. I actually prefer it to some Open Backs like the HD800s, it's just got a great amount of detail and the bass is amazing and EQs well paired with the Chord Mojo 2. For example on The 2nd Law album by Muse, on the track Follow Me @ 1:51 you think oh this is deep bass, and then it just goes one step further and hits deep and hard @ 1:54 like I've never heard before. There's a slight peak in the treble though which gives rise to some sibilance on S sometimes. These have replaced my Beyerdynamic DT177X GO which are an amazing headphone but nothing compared to these. The bass sometimes would clip, I've basically never encountered this on my bass boosted Z1Rs.

[@MAELOB]

I owned this headphones twice in the last few years, it was very divisive when it first came out, some people like them others don't, I just love the bass and comfort on this headphones. some people don't like the treble peak but i didn't have any issues. You can probably find a great deal on used market. I sold them because if anything goes wrong with the headphones i was not confident on Sony's servicing. I moved on to ZMf knowing they will take care of me in fixing any issues in the future.

[@TheVoiceOfReason34]

I had my eyes on these as my first set of premium over-ear cans for a while and I just picked up a few months ago, despite being older (picked up the Sony IER-Z1R in ear phones a year prior however and you have got to check those out too if you haven't) - having nothing to compare it to, I am happy that a) other think it sounds as good across all genres as I do and b) that it still holds up! Cheers!

[@PassionforSound]

I got both the IER-Z1R and MDRs at the same time on loan from Sony so the IEM review is coming soon 🙂

[@la53tj]

Nice unbiased review 👍. I agree with your assessment

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for letting me know. It's always nice to get some confirmation that I'm not alone in my perceptions. 😁

[@eyesintheskies]

Already sold on these but nice to hear confirmation of my choice, at the moment I’m in the battle between upgrading my music studio and upgrading my hifi setup and headphones 🤔

[@PassionforSound]

It's always hard to balance the various priorities, but at least you know you can't go wrong with these. 🙂

[@eyesintheskies]

​@@PassionforSoundgood to hear you still rate them in 2024 👍🏼. Enjoyed your review

[@howequalspeace]

I felt the mids were too recessed on the Z1R when I owned them, but they have loyal following. They are def the pinnacle of design in the headphone game. I appreciated that aspect of ownership when I had them in.

[@gdemirjian]

I've had my Z1R for almost one year now and love them for all the reasons your mention. I recently picked up a pair of, Focal Radiance for Bentley and they are extremely similar in premium build, and sound signature. I call them, Batman and Robin.

[@РоманЦиренщиков]

А я Маша и Миша

[@henryt9731]

for me the sony house sound never fails

[@SiliDuffa]

Yay! New format. Solid step forward. Keep it up! 🍺😎👍 One minor thing, tad too close for me. Old perspective + this format would be mint.

[@PassionforSound]

Yeah, I was having an issue with the camera. It has a sneaky setting that crops in on 4k, but I've solved that now and the field of view will be just right (I think) from the end of May onwards. There's a couple of videos before that so sorry in advance! Thanks for letting me know that you liked the new approach. I'm trying to inject some more fun and personality while maintaining the same quality of information.

[@stephenstover7494]

Just found your channel, loving how objective you are!

[@PassionforSound]

Welcome! I'm so glad you're liking it

[@davestevens4193]

My AKG K-340 hybrid electrostatic/dynamic cans from the 80's were great when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Nice review.

[@samhor33]

The Z1R have great potential, it scales really well with better gears.

[@PassionforSound]

I agree. They are worthy of a properly high end source chain, but also won't punish you for a more basic source.

[@retrogemcollector]

Well your review was the last thing I needed to jump the gun...I have been a proud Z1R owner for a few months. Just purchased the 800s but keep going back to the Sony's. 🍻

[@PassionforSound]

Yay! They've been out of stock here in Australia, but I'm hoping to have a pair soon too.

[@PeterHas]

I've only listened to the MDR-Z1R once, but was also pleasantly surprised by how benign and pleasant they were, without any clear flaws jumping out at me. I have since looked seriously at buying a pair, but I can't make myself do it because of their age. I keep waiting on Sony to release a MK II version like they did with the Z7. With the MDR-Z1R I expected the treble peak to stand out like Beyerdynamic headphones, but it didn't at all. I've since read that you can smooth out the treble by changing the cable because the stock cable uses silver plated copper. Silver plated copper always hardens the sound a bit compared to just regular copper. Silver plated copper also increases the sense of clarity, adding more firmness and contrast, like changing gamma on a display. But it also highlights peaks more, making them edgier and more painful. This is why the HD 800 also benefits from changing cable, because it also uses silver plated copper in all its stock cables. Basically, for owners of the Z1R it's worth looking at after market cables because many owners say it can meaningfully improve their sound.

[@PassionforSound]

That makes a lot of sense about the cable. I'm almost never a fan of silver plated cables for the exact reasons you described.

[@SAURAV2k3]

Wow didn’t expect review of Z1R…I have mine since 2016 December. I was one of early buyer in US with serial number below 200

[@PassionforSound]

Great decision on your part!

[@johnosam4681]

I remember that cup has a special "paper" like material behind the mesh. the Japanese are crazy with their manufacturing.

[@trevorharrison29]

Addicted to Audio used to be just the single headphones shop out in Kew. They regularly had the Z1R on sale for A$1699. Now they are a chain with shops in capital cities and the sales are nowhere as good as they used to be. Btw, I find the Z1R comfortable for long listening sessions.

[@PassionforSound]

I personally prefer to buy from elsewhere such as minidisc.com.au (not sponsored)

[@jonnyshaw85]

We spoke about the Bokeh in the comments section on your Bokeh review and you lead me here. It's come down to the Bokeh and the MDR-Z1R for me. I've been leaning to the Bokeh. Though I saw one person say the Bokeh didn't have enough sub bass in a review. That worried and confused me. I've looked at your frequency graphs for both headphones, I already knew the Z1R has more bass combabilities; Sub bass doesn't look like a problem for the Bokeh though. Instead the bass section itself looked low (or I guess neutral) apart from a dip towards the high bass end before spiking up. I'm new to reading these graphs and my uneducated brain is trying to work out how the sound won't be thin if it heads towards neutral or dips below. Is the sound flat? The main question I'm asking here, is if the Bokeh bass carries any weight and impact to it. Does it have some sub bass extension? What does it gain or loss, if anything in comparison to the Z1R?

[@PassionforSound]

The Bokeh definitely has good bass so I wouldn't worry about that side of it, but the challenge is that the whole frequency response matters. How much treble there is changes our perception of how much bass there is - it's about the contrast between frequencies as well as the pure amount of each frequency. If bass is important to you, the Z1R would be my choice of the two, but if you're drawn to the Bokehs, remember that you can swap pads to gain extra bass and tweak them to your liking.

[@levinste2750]

is it possible to EQ them, to reduce the bass, just in case? I'll use RME ADI 2 DAC FS with Violectric V222 Thank you

[@PassionforSound]

Definitely that's possible. I hope you love them

[@MuhammadKharismawan]

It's hard to make great sounding closed back headphones, the flagship of many brands being Open back shows that. The Z1R sound great while not trying to sound like an open back, it has all the characteristics of closed back headphones, while being very fun sounding.

[@PassionforSound]

I agree 💯

[@MadLadsAnonymous]

Eyeing the Aune SR7000 for my first nice pair on my HiFi journey but these Sonys have been on my mind as an end-game pair. Any experience with the Dayton HT200 hybrid tube amp? Wondering how well it would pair with the Z1R, given the headphone out is also amped.

[@PassionforSound]

I've got the SR7000s coming for review at some point, but I haven't yet heard those or the HT200.

[@MadLadsAnonymous]

@ Great! Just FYI, some folks have said it's hard to maintain a seal and that significantly affects the bass. Man, you are a hard worker with all the frequent uploads. Happy New Year, my friend.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for the tip. Happy new year to you too!

[@asplmn]

Love the Z1R. Will you be reviewing the Caldera Closed in the near future?

[@PassionforSound]

I'm hoping to!

[@fuzzytalz]

I owned these for a few years. They are pristinely ergonomic and comfortable, very well built. But the sound…not even close to neutral, with bloated lower mids and scalloped midrange that leaves vocals and many most instruments sounding unnaturally hollow. I couldn’t even EQ out the tonal imbalances. I have no regrets about selling them and moving on. YMMV.

[@invisiblekid99]

I am interested in these. Have been for a while. But they are a marmite headphone. Seen people love them and others throwing them in the bin more or less. At the price, there is no shortage of competition.

[@PassionforSound]

I had been slow to try and review them for the same reason. I now regret that decision and wish I'd tried them long ago. I know that we all hear a little differently, but I don't get why anyone hates these.

[@vipernecklampy8773]

Yes and all, but how it does it compared to the other closed-back wooden non-short than amazing, the tribute of the other "legendary" status wise-wine and "mythical" Sony MDR-R10. Yes i mean the tribute, HiFiMAN HE-R10D, currently playing on my head by few days and it's amazing sounding to me, refined at short. Would be lovely to make it clear to the world, since, one now costs 400$€ with wireless module and other can be purchased only used at about 1000$€ One is wooden with enormous cups, the other got, well it got huge 70mm drivers!

[@PassionforSound]

I haven't tried the R10D, but would love to. The R9 was so-so, but the R10D is obviously a different beast and would be fun to try.

[@vipernecklampy8773]

​@@PassionforSoundYes It Is, i have both. A lot more refined, quick for a Dynamic,, smooth (reminds me of HE1000 Stealth), and i let you Discover the rest. In my esperience it's great, and now the Wired version Is only at Just about 279$, a bargain!

[@gamersintech]

Hifiman arya or mdr z1r for gaming and music ?

[@PassionforSound]

That's a question of preferences. Open vs closed back and then also a more balanced tuning (Z1R) vs a more treble-emphasised tuning (Arya).

[@ixoye56]

I've had these on my wishlist for a long time, do you think these could be a good alternative to my HD800s for classic rock from the 60-70's?

[@PassionforSound]

Definitely. The bass from these is great, but not overdone and will be a great complement to the HD800s IMO.

[@ixoye56]

@@PassionforSound I was saving up for OG Empyrean, but the latest revision got mixed response, you are one of several who didn't like them, do you think Sony Z-1R are a good alternative to Empyrean OG?

[@PassionforSound]

@ixoye56 they're quite different headphones. I think both are great, but the OG Empyreans are a richer, warmer sounding headphone so it depends on what you're after.

[@pointlessdemon]

Awesome review! I'd also love to hear your opinion on the Sony MDR-Z7M2!

[@PassionforSound]

I'll see if I can get a loaner pair when I send these back

[@pointlessdemon]

@@PassionforSound That would be epic! Thanks for the reply, have an awesome weekend!

[@tielur-pu8od]

wait for Sony to update a new closed back with Audeze or these?

[@PassionforSound]

I don't see any reason to not get these - they're already brilliant

[@tielur-pu8od]

@@PassionforSound they were my next ones to get but then the HiFiMan Ayra Organic came out... slowly circling back to these. thanks for the review.

[@NetvoTV]

If I want one headphone for all genres of music, movie like Tenet, game and likely toake music in the future, would you recommend Sony M1, MV1, Z1R, or B&O H95, should I get two of them? IEM and earphone won't be better than headphone right? Is Sony NW-ZX707 player neccessary?

[@PassionforSound]

I believe if you choose right, you should only NEED one headphone and the Z1R could easily be it. I can't comment on the rest as I haven't heard them all.

[@NetvoTV]

But is it accurate enough as reference and monitor headphone? I like that it's like a very good all rounder headphone as you described, but as you said, it's old now, not sure if should I still spend the money on it when I have it? A ZX707 player is worth to get it along with it?

[@NetvoTV]

And I do like to have the minimal amount of things I need to own too, but open back headphone seem tempting and Sony don't have one yet for high end, just the monitor MV1 but I tried and the vocal seem fuzzy, not sure if it's in mall or it's perform like that

[@PassionforSound]

@NetvoTV it's not a dead flat tuning if that's what you mean, but it's accurate enough for everything other than precise tonal balancing IMO. I haven't heard the ZX707 so I can't answer about that.

[@JMAudioEditions]

XTC^2.5 needs to be reviewed soon!

[@PassionforSound]

Yes please!!

[@Mckaluge]

Can you compare it to its smaller brother Z7M2?

[@PassionforSound]

I'll see what I can arrange with Sony

[@matthewweflen]

The Z7M2 is a very similar sound signature. The Z1R has a slightly wider soundstage and more detail in the treble. But just putting them on your head for a minute or two, they sound almost the same. It's only with a longer listen that the differences reveal themselves - consistently in favor of the Z1R. They're a great option if you want to try out the "Z1R sound" for 300-400 used.

[@carminedesanto6746]

4:30 GM from Toronto. Brain 🧠 burn 🔥 is a thing …. As a user of LCDX -21 …yup you’ll adjust because it does something that you’re comfortable and enjoying…”everything has a coloration “..absolutely true. Have a great weekend ☕️

[@PassionforSound]

Absolutely! Enjoy your weekend too!!

[@reznov3D]

I tried it and loved it, except for the treble

[@Shaafcryp]

These vs dca e3 How will you compare these?

[@PassionforSound]

I prefer the sound of the Z1R (so much so that I'm buying a pair). I never had them both at the same time for a direct comparison though. I just know that the Z1R was a more enjoyable listen while the E3 was a bit sterile/clinical for my tastes.

[@PSN-eq4lt]

Great review😊 These vs meze 109 pro Which are technically more capable and how would you compare them ?

[@PassionforSound]

I haven't had them together at the same time, but I'd probably give the edge to the Z1R.

[@MeteoraEra]

The best closed back headphone you've tried? Better than Verite closed? Wow, Btw Love the new format 👏

[@PassionforSound]

Yep. I love these! Glad you like the new format. It will evolve a little as I find "my voice" more in this style, but this is the new approach I intend to pursue. 🙂🙂

[@raymondwebby2441]

@@PassionforSoundwow that’s very high praise, if you don’t mind me asking, how does it compare to ZMF atrium closed?

[@PassionforSound]

The Atrium Closed is a more coloured sounding headphone. It's great, but it depends on what you're after. I didn't have both side-by-side to compare so I can't give you detailed notes on their similarities and differences.

[@sjqideez6626]

Thanks for this, I prefer your older style of videos. Also you think this is a old headphone?! I use a 30 year old Stax, on a warm setup it’s so good

[@chungang7037]

can those still be bought?

[@PassionforSound]

What do you prefer about the older style videos?

[@sjqideez6626]

@@chungang7037 yep, only used/pre-owned

[@sjqideez6626]

@@PassionforSound thank you for asking. With all due respect, your older videos were more focused & professional. Your new style of videos with mini memes/gifs added in, you do lose some of those qualities you brought. Your new videos do come across as less serious, it’s also best to put the product name in your title. No offence intended at all, you are 1 of my favourite reviewers. I hope you don’t mind this constructive feedback, all the best.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for the info. I'll take the feedback onboard, but also need to be led by the analytics which all suggest that the new approach is more engaging and enjoyable for people, but I will still include the same level of research and detail in my videos no matter which direction I take with production. 🙂

[@joetori8356]

Great review, as always! Pithy and informative.

[@PassionforSound]

I'm so glad you liked it! I'm adjusting the approach to reviews slightly, but hopefully maintaining the quality of the information in a more engaging packaging. 🙂

[@clan_biblioteke]

Hi, what amplifiers up to 500-600 US dollars do you recommend? I have a Topping A30 pro and a Topping L50, and I would like to upgrade. For the money, what is significantly better than these two amplifiers that I already have? Thanks

[@PassionforSound]

Geshelli Labs A3 Pro is the only choice for me in that range. The Singxer SA-1 is nice, but the Geshelli is comfortably better IMO. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p3jcfZaufLWNhtEsi=_EU7HBQn6Nu3WMY4

[@clan_biblioteke]

@@PassionforSound It is difficult to buy American products in Europe, and ordering is very expensive due to transportation. I am left with Chinese, German and British. Question: Topping A90d or Singxer Sa-1, which do you think is better?Thanks

[@PassionforSound]

I'd take the SA-1 myself, but if you want a crisper, slightly brighter sound at the expense of a little soundstage depth, the A90D is also nice.

[@matemayer4850]

can you reccoomend a great sounding headphones for a SONY NW-ZX507 DAP? Something with a nice full bodied bass and good rich mids? Thank you!

[@PassionforSound]

What's your budget and do you want open or closed back?

[@matemayer4850]

@@PassionforSound Around $1000-1500, closed back, something that my SONY ZX507 can drive well. Thank you!

[@PassionforSound]

I've got the ZMF Bokeh here from a Patreon member, but haven't tried them yet. They're probably an excellent choice though. I've also heard people recommend the Sony MDR-Z7. In that price range though, I have limited experience with closed backs that are easy to drive.

[@matemayer4850]

@@PassionforSound thanks a lot for your advice!

[@davidabrams5573]

I owned these headphones for a spell this year, but ultimately resold them because they never did sound right to me. There are highlights for sure, like the deep bass, but that's not enough to make up for other issues with their odd frequency response that I just couldn't get over. I'd choose the LCD-XC unquestionably over the MDR-Z1R. The fact that the LCD-XC's retail for $500 (USD) less, makes it hard to fathom anyone spending $1800 on the Sony's. However, I do appreciate that taste is subjective. Both of those headphones definitely need EQ, but while EQ on the LCD-XC can bring them to end game levels, EQ on the on MDR-Z1R just brings them to tolerable (in my humble opinion). I also owned the ZMF Verite Closed for a bit this year and while I still preferred the LCD-XC over those, I found both to be a step above the MDR-Z1R.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. What are the frequency areas where you felt the Z1Rs needed fixing?

[@AnticipatedHedgehog]

For someone who is new to the hifi audio world, $1800 headphones better feel premium and utilize materials that justify the cost. The box to the screws, etc. all contribute to that perception. To me that shows the engineers made conscious choices to convey to the end user we took our time on the small details, wait until you listen to these. At the same time, the price point provides a larger budget for these details. The true gems are the headphones or anything for that matter are the products you find that surprise you at the given price point.

[@incanus21]

Thanks for the review! Did you liked these better than the Sennheiser HD820?

[@PassionforSound]

I did. I quite like the HD820, but I love the Z1R!

[@incanus21]

@@PassionforSound Thanks for the reply, it's much appreciated! I suppose the Z1R would work fine with the Burson Soloist 3XP?

[@PassionforSound]

@incanus21 absolutely

[@johnosam4681]

I remember I was in Japan when this came out, its a dream headphones but too expensive for me T_T

[@dreamstormPL]

They are really great. You should try them with some really powerfull amps over 10W and high quality silver cable.

[@PassionforSound]

They definitely do not need powerful amps (I have amps here from 300mW to 10W). It's the quality of the amp that is influencing the sound of these headphones or any other.

[@irun2sanaxox]

i have the focal elex & hifiman arya v2, appreciate them both, i think this headphone could make for a good trio

[@PassionforSound]

I agree!

[@irun2sanaxox]

@@PassionforSoundgonna keep an eye on these!

[@SiG-Popart]

Have you tried IER-Z1R kinda the same tbh...my fav IEM 👍

[@ReverendDr.Thomas]

Too big for me. 🙋

[@SiG-Popart]

@@ReverendDr.Thomas Aye you needed to be blessed ear wise…probably my most comfortable set 😃

[@PassionforSound]

It's coming up in the schedule soon too. Sony lent me both at the same time.

[@Skipeur-2]

Le Sony Mdr z1r est une œuvre d'art si perfectionniste et équilibrée tout à été pensé aux millimètres les ingénieurs de chez Sony m'avez choqué le Mdr z1r est sorti je l'ai écouté une fois et je n'arrête pas d'y repenser je vais bientôt m'en procurer enfin lol. Je recherche une signature sonore très bien équilibrée neutre avec des basses profondes de pouvoir entendre chaque détail que le compositeur à voulu montrer mais sans exagération que ça reste naturel. Voilà pourquoi j'ai opté pour le mdr z1r il possède tout les critiques que je recherche. Merci pour la vidéo

[@PassionforSound]

I'm glad you liked the review. I hope you get them soon!

[@bv3bv334]

I love mine. Lush sound. Comfy as.

[@PassionforSound]

I agree

[@RX-rd4sc]

Nice review These are one of the best closed backs Will you also prefer them over zmf verite closed and atrium closed?

[@michaellazaar1838]

It annoys me to no end when the obvious is never addressed. My first question was as exactly as yours, in any case I found his opening remarks disingenuous. Driver tech has not exactly radically changed as he postulates in the last 8 years. Sure things have changed although most of this in build quality and cup design, driver tech not so much. The only real advancement will come with the new solid state drivers now slowly seeing the light of day.

[@PassionforSound]

@RX-rd4sc I like both of the ZMFs, but I do prefer the Z1R by a decent margin.

[@RX-rd4sc]

@@PassionforSound thanks, my next purchase is z1r

[@RX-rd4sc]

@@PassionforSound next please review denon d7200 >2022 model

[@raymondwebby2441]

@@RX-rd4scsame here

[@trollights]

hello, what amp/dac did you prefer with the Z1R?

[@PassionforSound]

I didn't have any specific favourites, but used it mostly with the Chord DAVE feeding the Enleum AMP-23R and Burson Voyager

[@trollights]

@@PassionforSound what amp/dac setup would you recommend under $2500?

[@PassionforSound]

I'd go for a Schiit Mjolnir 3 and a Bifrost 2.

[@springbay1]

MDR-Z1R combined with TA-ZH1ES is actually everything I ever needed. Sadly, Sony left the high gear game some years ago, for the rest of you.

[@james_tiberius_kirk73]

I still have my pair of these and they're my daily drivers until I buy some Attrium Closed in August. I'll never part with them PFS!

[@thelastrhino2581]

Don't do it. Z1R > AC any day.

[@PassionforSound]

I love the Atrium Closed as well, but I think the Z1R is better...

[@james_tiberius_kirk73]

@@PassionforSound That's quite an endorsement!

[@james_tiberius_kirk73]

@@PassionforSound PFS can I ask that you lend some comment around your statement that the MDR-Z1R sound better than the ZMF Atrium Closed please? I don't want to drop over $4000:00AUD on Atrium Closed if they're actually going to be worse than the MDR-Z1R's that I have. Perhaps *worse* is the wrong word, let's just say not as good. Further, *if* I were to buy a ZMF Headphone, which ones *would* you suggest are better overall than the MDR-Z1R's? As an FYI, I do like prominent sub-bass and mid-bass and not a strident Treble. I like a darker sounding Headphone too. Your opinion really matters to me as you're one of the few people I listen to on the subject. Thank-you Sir.

[@PassionforSound]

I think it's important to remove best and worst from the conversation because it's all personal. I prefer the Z1R, but the ZMFs will suit some other people more. If you like a bit more sense of bass, the VC offers more mid-bass punch. The Atrium Closed offers less mid bass punch but a bit more sub bass presence. I think both are better for those looking for a more dynamic and punchy sound as the Z1Rs are actually fairly neutral in comparison (even though they have excellent bass presence)

[@Hugo-ek3ow]

Listening the review in a Z1R 🤣 I got for 900€ in mint condition, best bargain before end the year

[@PassionforSound]

Awesome! Nice deal

[@Skipeur-2]

Je compte m'en acheter un en Mars je vais économiser pour me l'acheter ce genre d'appareil même 20 ans après vaut toujours la peine d'être acheté. Du moins je l'espère lol

[@PassionforSound]

I did the same thing after I sent back the review unit. I hope you love them as much as I do!

[@datdudeinred]

It's sony. Ofc everything they make is almost perfect & some are already perfection like their tv's. Just goes to show you how far ahead they were even back then. Even the iem ier z1r is single greatest iem even today especially when it comes to bass & treble (despite using a dd for the later😂). & don't even let me start on their tv's, Playstation, their theatre quad home theater speakers, all the movies they make always highest quality dolby atmos tracks & perfect picture on 4k bd & even better bravia core, ofc their superb cameras. Like comon it's not even a competition anymore.

[@PassionforSound]

I don't know if I'm quite as high on them as you, but I do agree that they make some outstanding products!

[@datdudeinred]

@@PassionforSound yeah sorry about that i was smoking weed on my ps5 so no one will notice 😂

[@PassionforSound]

😂 all good

[@acheresh]

why you stop listed what you are reviewing in video title, your video titles is just meangles, please, don't do this

[@Lost1ntheSauc3]

Agreed, it won't show up in search results as consistently either, which is bad for everyone involved.

[@KipFox]

Yea… there already isn’t a lot of great reviews on here for the Z1R. So at least stick the model in that title for the potentially curious.

[@PassionforSound]

Unfortunately, A/B testing shows that putting the name of the headphone in the title gets less views and therefore limits people discovering something they might have otherwise assumed they weren't interested in. The search results will pick up the product model from the description for searching.

[@davdidit6]

Algorithm commands, viewers suffer

[@PassionforSound]

Except that you all still saw the video and the data says that more people overall will see the video. I don't understand how that is the viewers suffering.

[@Legato-2057]

The only unboxing experience that is better than the MDR-Z1R is the Audio-Technica ATH-AWKT.

[@PassionforSound]

I'd love to try those!

[@chronometa]

I'm gonna wait for a new one and have an overly expensive office headphone lol

[@faisalova]

The "short form" way that you are introducing is much better. keep this frormat....

[@PassionforSound]

This will be the new style of videos moving forward (unless they flop or get bad feedback) 🙂 I'm glad you like it!

[@shaaf5453]

Zmf bokeh review when?

[@PassionforSound]

Actually, quite soon...

[@matty74123]

Id agree with your comments on these I regret selling my pair

[@PassionforSound]

It's never too late to get a new pair 😉😉

[@matty74123]

@@PassionforSound If a pair shows up on SNA classifieds I may jump on them

[@fiftyfive5459]

other headphones is like F1 car. but Z1r is like ice cream truck.

[@PassionforSound]

How so?

[@yarbles66]

absolute classics... you couldnt really improve them; they are like a really good nightclub Soundsystem...NOTHING comes close. Planars cant do sub like this.

[@ReverendDr.Thomas]

I’m afraid that I am unfamiliar with PIDGIN. 🤔 Therefore, Slave, if you would care to repeat your inane drivel in a tongue that is comprehensible to me (such as ENGLISH), it would be appreciated. 🤓

[@garymalone547]

I remember the first time I saw the MDR Z7 at the Sony store. Twelve hundred Kiwi pesos and although I fell in love I thought I'll never own those. GF wholeheartedly agreed. Nevertheless I obtained that very pair and it was only supplanted by the likes of Sundara, Focal Elear and too many others before I reached the end of the line, or came to my senses. Build quality on the Z7 has proven them to be bulletproof. Gave them to a mate and they're still going, sans most of the leather and on the third cable.

[@saucey99]

AUDEZE!!!!

[@anarky277]

For the money..... the context being how much they cost, It's fair to say these are bad and disappointing.

[@PassionforSound]

I'm yet to hear a better closed back at any price. Do you know of one?

[@B8THOV3N]

Can you elaborate your reasonings? Why are they ‘bad and disappointing’ in comparison to other options?

[@anarky277]

@@B8THOV3N when I tested them in a HIFI story on a Sony amp, an ES which I think has that old Japanese heritage build quality so reliable baseline, I was testing some famous cans at the time LCD2, HIFIMAN HE1000, Focal Elear something and the very expensive Sony's, about 2.5k, 1k more than any of the others, they sounded undynamic, woolly and not worth 2.5k, for that money i'd expected magic in my ears, as i said, cost is the metric that makes these bad.

[@anarky277]

Actually, the HIFIMAN were over 2k but sounded the best out of the bunch.

[@B8THOV3N]

@@anarky277 None of the headphones in comparison you mentioned are closed back. I don’t think it’d be a fair comparison. For example with Hifiman, their closed backs are nowhere near as good as their open backs, even in the same price range. In all fairness, there weren’t many closed back options 7 years ago, esp. in the high end price range.

[@aRc11-11]

Just marry the thing why don't you?

[@masterazlan6999]

Ha4 this where experienced company do.. Its a sony.. Ha4.. Peace!

[@calvinyip364]

Please review aune ar5000.

[@PassionforSound]

If I can get my hands on them, I definitely will.

[@mikylenaidoo1779]

Anyone wanting to trade their Meze elite for a Zmf Caldera? I don’t regret selling my susvara but I really do miss the Meze elite Contact me if anyones interested, I’m located in Sydney , Australia

[@sergiymarchenko1002]

I don't buy that hype train. Thanks anyway...

[@PassionforSound]

Hardly a hype train. These are old and rarely talked about.

[@roveism]

Tried these and it was seriously underwhelming. alot of money for not very much.

[@PassionforSound]

What were you listening to them from and where?

[@HeadphoneDay]

Yeah is it a good headphone,but the old grandpa (MDR R10) have an unparalleled sound quality. So the Z1R is definitely NOT an upgrade from the previous generation.

[@valentin9650]

not good and accurate reviews, no one care about general reviews anymore

[@spectrefate]

Sorry. You have officially lost your mind if you spend $1800 on a set of headphones.

[@RX-rd4sc]

You are officially lost your mind if you spend 50k$ on your car when you can buy a 4k$ car Its all about luxury dude

[@spectrefate]

@@RX-rd4sc Are you familiar with apples and oranges?