Premium studio HEADPHONES test (a BIG one!)

[@FoliaSound]

Heeey again! So, what's your favouirite headphones? Planning to buy any? Not using them at all? Let me know down below!

[@johnnyvegas2015]

The HEDDphones look interesting, would like to try them one day...cheers

[@aviatedviewssound4798]

Happy to see you Paul second, one of my favorite paul alongside Paul third

[@FoliaSound]

@@johnnyvegas2015 , I've heard they're stunning, but not linear at all. Would be cool to listen to them!

[@FoliaSound]

@@aviatedviewssound4798 , thanks, man!

[@johnnyvegas2015]

@@FoliaSound that I did not know...thanks for the heads up.

[@daveodonnell8246]

Well, that’s got to be one of the most fun headphone reviews I’ve watched! I’m about to buy the ndh30s, and this has confirmed they’re the right purchase for me. And I’ve subscribed!🙌

[@FoliaSound]

Hello, Dave! Welcome on board! One more hint from me: check out some models by Focal. They're a tad more expensive than NDH30, but they're absolutely insane. I'll try to review them separately.

[@LBJedi]

I found this incredibly valuable. Thank you very much!

[@FoliaSound]

Thank you too!

[@rola8597]

Been watching a lot of reviews both on KZbin and Reddit about the ndh 30s and i hear a lot of good things but your reaction says it all!. I will get these asap

[@FoliaSound]

Nice to hear that. You won't regret it, man, they're absolutely stellar.

[@MrGreekBlade]

Best comparison on youtube...thanks a lot man

[@FoliaSound]

No probs, thank you too!

[@trung6280]

Really glad I found your channel. Thank you so much for the effort you put in. I was wondering between NDH30 and DT 1990 Pro and your video helped me decide. Thanks again!

[@FoliaSound]

No probs, this is why I do it all :) Welcome on board!

[@spacewavecr]

I love your personality mate :) I just bought the closed version of the Neumann. Own a pair of Shure 1540 (My preference when mixing) and DT 1770Pro (Good sounding, but way to bright). Also, I just bought the Audeze LCD-XC. Quite hyped for those :) Thanks for your input and your hard work :)

[@peterelfman]

Thank you so much for putting this together. I am in the middle of making a purchase for mixing/mastering, and it was down to the NDH 30 and the DT 1990. This video helped me tip the balance. I loved this breakdown, and also learning about burning in headphones was extremely clutch. Happy New Year!

[@FoliaSound]

After a couple of months with NDH30 - go for them, don't even look for anything else. They are absolutey stellar an beyond. Cheers!

[@peterelfman]

@@FoliaSound I ordered them a few days ago, they are on the way!

[@FoliaSound]

@@peterelfman , let me know what you think when they arrive and get some time to shine!

[@peterelfman]

@@FoliaSound Will do!

[@Cluless02]

Dynamite video mate, professional and cool too!!!👀

[@zhukmy]

Hello from Vilnius! Thanks for great work! Nice video and headphones comparison!)

[@FoliaSound]

Thanks, Maks, good to hear from you!

[@techmed-rainer]

Very nicely made video l, thank you! Be assured that the connector of the NDH will not break or loosen. It looked like you didn't put it in properly at first. And you're right. It's for a balanced connection.

[@EirikHasselberg]

Reporting back on the NDH30's, these guys are crazy good (being fed by an UAD Apollo). I have bought myself a Topping L30II headphone amp and are waiting for cables so I can run it. But even before that these NDH30's are a good step up from my Sennheiser HD600's. Like you said, it is like listening to the monitors. I have LYD48's and an 18's sub so I have really good monitoring. But I could easily have mixed and in these headphones, they are really good. So thanks for this video so I got around to by these NDH30's. I will have these for a long, long time (and get a new pair of them when they are worn out).

[@FoliaSound]

Ha! Great news, Eirik! Thanks for the update!

[@MS-vy8ks]

Hi Eirik, I have Senn HD600's also and have been considering the NDH30's, Can you tell me the difference in your experience between those two headphones, and also if you use correction software like Sonarworks or something else with your NDH30's?

[@EirikHasselberg]

@@MS-vy8ks Hi. Sorry, I did not see this until now. The NDH30's have less top end than the HD600's (that I have at work now), so you can practically sit forever without your ears getting tired. I sold my Sonarworks as I feel it just ruined the sound. Learn the room and the speakers/headphones and you get a better result at the end of the day. I have a Topping A90 headphone amp that go with the NDH30's and the sound is as good as it gets. The HD600's are good, it is not that, but the NDH30's are a little better.

[@ainnelrosirrosias3338]

Hi, can you update us back on the topping? I have audient id 14 mk2 and nhd30, dont know how much difference the topping will give. (looking for flatness) cheers

[@2ndAveScents]

@@ainnelrosirrosias3338Topping L30 mk2 is one of the flattest headphone amps ever produced. Very powerful and transparent, but no balanced in or out.

[@racheloshaksmusic]

What an amazing study. Thank you so much for this video. I not only enjoyed it and appreciated your honesty and frankness, but I also learned a few things. This makes me confident to buy the NDH-30. Now I need a closed back for tracking. Might get the NDH 20 for that. Subscribed! God bless you in Jesus name.

[@FoliaSound]

After a couple of months of using: BUY THEM. the're absolutely stunning! Thanks!

[@racheloshaksmusic]

@@FoliaSound Thank you. What closed back headphones would you recommend for playing and recording a midi keyboard live and singing?

[@josehaya6362]

Nice video! I own a pair of DT1990 pro and I love how they sound different from my monitors! Also, I found them absolutely precise for bass mixing :)

[@RiverSongMusic]

This is a great review.

[@FoliaSound]

Thanks, man!

[@housevibez8828]

Very nice and detailed review. Thanks

[@FoliaSound]

No probs!

[@carlosq00]

Thank you for this video, exactly what I was looking for and the nudge I needed to make my buy decision

[@FoliaSound]

No probs, thanks, Carlos!

[@WassupFred]

Amazing review bro

[@FoliaSound]

Thanks, man, I already know a bunch of people who bought NDH30s after watching it ;)

[@brahimgabsi4364]

Thank you a lot, brother 🙏 Your video is very helpful ❤

[@FoliaSound]

No problem, thanks!

[@MarkVO]

After doing more research and also watching this video a few times I've just ordered a pair of NDH30 headphones. It's a new venture for me in this industry and I'm excited to use such highly regarded gear for it. Thank you for the video, Paweł!

[@FoliaSound]

No probs, at your service!

[@hummarstraful]

How are you mixes translating so far?

[@johnnyvegas2015]

Great review...wasn't surprised that BD 1990 Pro took the 2nd place. Had a pair before and sold it after a couple of weeks and replaced them with the Focals Clears MG. I still have a pair of BD 990 Pro 250 ohm and still, really like them and use them almost every day. Neumann's will be on my list to check when I get a chance....Thanks, Paul

[@FoliaSound]

Thanks, Johnny, tell me what you think when you grab them!

[@EirikHasselberg]

My Sennheiser HD600's had this clamping issue at first but now they are comfortable. But now I really want a pair of NDH30's...

[@FoliaSound]

They are absolutely stunning. See the store next to you to listen to them, man. You won't regret.

[@lamprosantoniou7853]

Thank you for the review!!! I own the DT1990s and the SRH1840s and I totally agree with you for sound and build quality regarding these two phones. The SRH1840s were a disappointment in terms of build quality, engineering, materials used and distortion in the low frequencies. The Dt1990s combined with aftermarket pads from dekoni (elite velour ones) are much more relaxed in the highs. Audioheaven has some frequency response measurements with these dekoni pads as well.

[@FoliaSound]

Oh, thanks, I'll surely take a look at this!

[@morespinach9832]

At that price no EQ should be needed. NDH20 and 30 both are excellent off the bat.

[@VENOM-vq3ju]

​@@morespinach9832 An equalizer will always be necessary, especially when one is demanding. I would be curious and even persuaded that with some small correction or/and with the DEKONI velor elite pads the DT1990 is far ahead.

[@morespinach9832]

@@VENOM-vq3ju to each their own. The DT 1990 and NDH 30 are both next to me as I type. The Neumanns are far better and more effortless to my ear.

[@VENOM-vq3ju]

@@morespinach9832 So you have opted for the best solution, namely having both to form your own opinion. So if you had to keep only one, it would be the Neumann NDH 30 ?

[@tiagomedeiros13]

@FoliaSound I think that a new version of this comparison would be great with these three contenders: NEW DT 1990 Pro MKII, NEW Focal Lensys Professional and Neumann NDH30 .. That would a very interesting comparison.

[@SKY11211213]

good choice with Brat- Rysy. I love to find new music for referencing audio quality.

[@FoliaSound]

Thanks!

[@thesaint7380]

Thank you for the test ! I too tried the 1990 and finally bought the Neumann. I also felt that the Neumanns sound like my monitors, but even more revealing in a way. I think both the 1990 and NDH30 somehow stand above the music (mix), while the Neumann was a bit better (clearer) at showing flaws in a mix. I also prefer the tamed highs of the Neumann (it is in no way dull, just evened out in a way, not as (over)pronounced as the Beyers). RYSY was a good tip by the way, love the song ! Regards from Germany :)

[@DjRuthful]

Great review Folia and thank you for it 👊🏼. Yes, from my experience as well, Beyer Dynamics headphones seem always bright, especially around the 8k range and many people feel the same way. But, damn the build quality, aesthetics and comfort of Beyer Dynamics is absolutely amazing. I was very interested on how the Neumann NDH30 would sound and from your reaction, I can see they are amazing.

[@FoliaSound]

Yes, they are! :) Thanks!

[@CreepypastaChroniclesDE]

I hope in the future you can test the austrian audio hi-x65, for my self I prefere they over the neumann ND30. :)

[@FoliaSound]

Thanks for letting me know, I just had a talka about Austrian Audio yesterday :)

[@kjmusic2541]

Nice review, wish more where don't like this. I personally use ATH-R70x's and would love to hear your impressions of those sometime. I bought mine used with thicker replacement pads though, and not tried the original pads, so they may be better or worse than out of the box. I trust their presentation though and mixes translate well from them.

[@erkamau9629]

No crossfeed and linearization/correctiom eq, and room simulation too ?

[@michaelmilano4457]

bro....I didn't know I ve needed a new pair of headphone until seeing this video ( 5 years with my DT 990 and some millions of views on Spotify) but gonna buy straight away the Neumann NDH30 today....I m starting producing lots of tech house now and I need my bass undercontrol ...when I saw you going 'wow' I was convinced ..amazing test...thanks fam

[@FoliaSound]

Aaaahaha, this is great to hear! You won't regret this, Neumanns are insane and I can only confirm that after some time. I tried some Focale recently, too. Neumanns won easily and clearly with all of them.

[@michaelmilano4457]

@@FoliaSound update: they just arrived bro!!!!! you were totally right....the bass is fckn outstanding...thanks again, so glad KZbin suggest your video

[@michaelmilano4457]

only disappointment: stupid long cable 😕

[@FoliaSound]

@@michaelmilano4457 haaa, great to hear that, man! :D Enjoy!

[@NickC1975]

Do the Neumann offer a fairly large sound stage? Dt1990 are quite famous for that…

[@J.M.81]

I‘m just testing the NDH30 and DT 1990s at home and what really is annoying on the Neumann that the sound changes if you move your headphones a few mm … that’s not cool… and since the Neumann are weaker in the Highs I think I find it better to have a Headphone where I know it has strong highs and keep that in mind working on VoiceOvers etc than hearing less highs, boost more and then freak out at the end on other systems… makes sense ?

[@FoliaSound]

I have to tell you I haven't experienced anything like this with my NDH 30. Sorry to hear that and you should definitely look for something that suits you instead of Neumanns...

[@J.M.81]

@@FoliaSound Yes, I have read that in a few tests before buying the NDH30 but wanted to check it out by myself ... will give both Headphones a few more days :)

[@FoliaSound]

@@J.M.81 always a good idea!

[@misifuz6468]

@@J.M.81 hi I noticed the same. I don't want to think about how I wear the headphones, and I feel like it tends to sound very dull and dark. Can't imagine that's the sound of the monitors. I would never get them if that's true. With the cable on the right side it seems like a downgrade to the DT1990 overall. But I can't stand the highs there.

[@hummarstraful]

The only thing that matters to me is translation. I couldn't care less about any other aspect of mixing headphones. A few years later, how accurate has the translation been?

[@gerraldsamraj]

He is right on the point. I had to return the DT1990 n get the Neumann

[@toamaori]

Thanks for this... I was tossing up between the neumanns and the dt 1990 pros... and as someone without a huge amount of experience but learning hands on, on the job.. this is so helpful... I'd love to see your analysis of the focal mg pros... Although not in the same price bracket as the neumanns, which seem to be the best in that bracket, your analysis of the focals would be interesting. Great vid instant sub from me. Cheers

[@EdSoloUK]

I would also love to see a comparison between the ND 30's and the Focals

[@toamaori]

@@EdSoloUK I ended up getting the ndh30's, they are a dream to work with and my mixes sound ten times better across a multitude of speakers. The MG pro's are about $1500 dollars more than the NDH 30's where I live so Neumann has a great value point.

[@MarkVO]

As a voice over artist there's something nice about watching a Neumann, perhaps most reputable for their microphones, ALSO win in headphones. It also doesn't help that they are without a doubt the best looking ones. Great comparison, Paweł!

[@MrNicknayme]

Do you Think that you could wear the Neumanns reversed? I don’t like the cable being on the right side.. (I can flip the Left/right in my soundcard software.)

[@FoliaSound]

Yep, totally possible and comfy!

[@anton90125]

How can you resolve the 3rd and 5th harmonics from what is essentially a super position of all frequencies hitting your ear drum. Are you able to do some sort Fourier analysis in you brain ? To be able to detect/resolve a sound that is fundamentally a 3rd/5th harmonic and recognize it as such . I do find that hard to believe. There may be excessive 3rd/5th harmonics, the hard data / graphs indicate as such but you reaction to the headphones looked like you were hearing some an-harmonic sounds or like someone scratching glass! I have the headphones can not resolve in isolation the 3rd/5th harmonics. I have read on other sites, this kind of distortion only reveals itself by a diminishing bass as you get louder. I didn't see you twiddling a volume control.

[@bryanbarajasBB]

An honest review! I have a pair of NDH 30 and it seems that an audio software and dac with amp would assist the Neumann 30 to sound even better. Can you recommend?

[@germanviolinista]

Buenos dias maestro no se si comprar los neuman 30 o los vsx slate digital.. Cual me recomienda para mezclar y masterizar... 🏁🏆🏆🎉Mil gracias.. Espero su respuesta

[@JPDC624]

I didn't want neutral for composing, I have a 2.1 Neumannn system for that. I went with the 1990s and all I did in TotalMixFX was cut 8.5KHz by 10db, Q of 4.0, and a slight dip at 250Hz, and they are a sonic JOY. My mixing time is very low vs composing so I'm fine with that forever EQ on my output and can learn them where they are. SO exciting to listen to. If you need neutral headphones for mixing, don't try to sterilize the 1990s, buy the NDH 30s instead. If you have the money, get Audeze MM-500s and you are done. But for exciting tight bass and a big soundstage, tame the 1990s and you are good to go.

[@patrick5301]

Granted I never had the most expensive headphones, but having used the dt1990, HD 600, DT 900, even Slate VSX, i REALLY dont get the "replacing speakers" talk. Its not even close + the physics are vastly different. Someone help me out here

[@FoliaSound]

I get you, yet all I can say is that NDH 30 are different and seriously extremely close to monitor experience. My co-workers use them a lot to check their mixes.

[@killerbsting1621]

Have you tried the dt 1990s mk2?

[@dokma_eu]

I have DT1990 for 8 months now, and it was precisely that abundance of highs and their crispyness that attracted me to them. And yes, it is true that it can be overwhelming after listening them for more than few hours, so I wear them only when I really need to hear and concentrate on the details. Sanjay C also did a comparison test with them and Neumann's. However, I will still consider getting Neumanns NDH20 or perhaps even a NDH30 model (which are closed-back - and that sometimes can be a benefit, especially when listening in noisy neighbourhoods, sometimes when I wear DT1990 and hearing "outside" noises I feel they are confusing me). Anyway, I did not regret buying DT1990 and I will keep using them. Perhaps Focal Clear Mg Professional headphones might be my next pair, or Audeze, or HEDDphone - I would have to test them first, as they all cost 3x as much (1500 EUR range)

[@racheloshaksmusic]

Hi, I got both the closed back and open back Neumann headphones. The closed back works fine but the open back only works in one ear: the left. When I switched the jack to another one it swapped to working in only the right ear. It is not working simultaneously. It won’t work in both ears when I plug it into my keyboard or in my Apollo interface or in my laptop, only in one ear. What should I do to fix this? Is there a special way to set it up so it can work like yours?

[@FoliaSound]

I believe something's wrong with them or you're using the wrong cable. Are you plugging them with NDH30 cable? It's a balanced on, I think, which makes a difference for headphones!

[@racheloshaksmusic]

@@FoliaSound yes, I am plugging them with the NDH30 cable it came with. I’m guessing there is something wrong with them since there is no special setting. I will return them. But the NDH20 has a “realistic” and slightly bright sound. Great clarity, I love them and they look great! At first I found them uncomfortable to wear but I just got used to it and the feeling of it on my head disappeared. Shame I couldn’t experience the NDH 30 but I guess I don’t need it right now and will get it next time maybe. Thank you for your response ! 🙏🏾❤️

[@iczer-2]

This was almost a great review, but your reaction to the Shures was bordering on absurd. While the THD measures for this set have been objectively demonstrated, the real world usage isn't nearly as horrible as the metrics might suggest. I've used both the 1990s and 1840s (haven't had a chance to use the NDH30s yet) for mixing and even tracking ITB and truly enjoyed both experiences. Saying the 1840s are no good for mixing is utterly absurd. I have to wonder if forum opinion and graphs are affecting your hearing more than the actual THD.

[@FoliaSound]

My piece of Shures was absolutely horrendous and I'm 100% serious about it.

[@Andreasericsonmusic]

Couldn't agree more. The 1840 sounds fantastic!

[@wicked_cool7]

@@FoliaSound They were probably fake.

[@Brixgamingytb]

Great video man glad to meet your channel, what do you think about audeze lcd-x vs ndh 30

[@FoliaSound]

Hey, thanks! Audezes are great, but I think the wearing comfort can't be compared for long sessions. Also, Neumanns seem more analytical to me for studio work.

[@Brixgamingytb]

@@FoliaSound waw that's so interesting i was so lost between Lcd x, Hifiman arya and Focal clear, my purpose is to do mixing and mastering and enjoying listening to music at same time, now you open eyes for this product and it is a very good option, thank you so much man

[@FoliaSound]

@@Brixgamingytb , no probs, my pleasure!

[@julienmartinez884]

Amazing review very valuable thank you. Quick question do you think the NEUMANN NDH 20 are also a WOW ? and if you will have to choose btw the Beyerdynamic DT 1770 PRO and the NEUMANN NDH 20 for mixing ? Thanks for your time

[@FoliaSound]

Neumanns, all the way. The low end isn't as smooth there, but they're still amazing!

[@MarvelJAM]

Love the video as usual. No Planar Magnetic Headphones? Just curious. Do you know something about them that I should? I use a few headphones over $1000 along with Sony 7506 that I know so well. I am really considering Planar.

[@nniikk86]

I’ve been looking to update my headphones and been thoroughly researching and trying to source unbiased and non sponsored reviews. What I find very interesting about your review is that you highly favour the NDH30s and do note rate the Shure’s at all. On the other hand most reviewed comparison I’ve come come across that the NDH30s have been the least favourite of the 3, not that they think it was horrible just more preference i guess you could say. Ultimately I think the best thing to do is try before you buy and this weekend I’ll be visiting a store that does offer demos

[@FoliaSound]

Shures were so bad I rated them at the very beginning, excluding them from further testing. Using my NDH 30 for a couple of months, I would't change them for anything else. They're absolutely amazing and this is not a sponsored opinion :)

[@MrSasUGames]

Hej Paweł! Od niedawna posiadam sluchawki Neumann ndh 30, uzywam takze interfejsu audio Rme Babyface Pro Fs, czy moglbys podac dokladnie jakiej korekcji dzwieku dokonales na wyzej wymienionych sluchawkach? Mamy razem oprogramowanie "total mix", byloby super jakbys podal dokladnie jakie frekwencje uciales, a jakie podbiles, aby sluchawki brzmialy jak najwierniej 😀 Pozdrawiam Cie serdecznie i mam nadzieje, ze odpiszesz mi na wiadomosc! 🤔

[@FoliaSound]

Jasne, nie ma problemu, dziś dostaniesz!

[@MrSasUGames]

@@FoliaSound Super, czekam na odpowiedz w takim razie :)

[@MrSasUGames]

@@FoliaSound i jak tam ? Swoja droga to co tworzysz na youtube jest majstersztykiem :)

[@FoliaSound]

Siema! Podaję Ci krzywą korekcji słuchawek na moim RME. Band 1 type: low shelf, -1.5 dB gain, freq 190 Hz, Q 0.7, band 2 type: bell, -4 dB gain, freq 3.5 kHz, Q 1.0, band 3 type: high shelf, gain 3.5 dB, Freq 5.4 kHz, Q 0.7. Pozdro i dzięki za dobre słowo!

[@MrSasUGames]

@@FoliaSound super, dzieki wielkie i milego dzionka zycze 🔥 Edit. Czekam na test tego nowego interfejsu Neumanna :)

[@JMAudioEditions]

I had them I loved the sound and bass was nice for a monitor headphone highs same but I couldn't get over the headband comfort and ear pads - which hurt after a few hrs so I tried roling pads and it killed the sound- I wound up returning and keep using my trusty JM Audio Edition XTC Open Back 50mm BioNano Wool Dynamic - which for me offer ultimate comfort and are detailed and rock out with min distortion but sound a smidge more fun and a lot more present than neumann since neuneumanns are only 40mm drivers

[@oldmenwithnewguns5997]

Would you recommend to use the NDH 30 without a amplifier? At the moment I use DT 990 pro 250 Ohm on a macbook and they have perfect loudness on 50% volume. The NDH 30 have less Ohm, there should be no problem with volume. Would there be a sound quality difference with an amplifier? Great video btw. ;)

[@FoliaSound]

Hey, man! I believe that a good amp always make a difference. I use my RME Fireface preamp and couldn't be happier!

[@kierenmoore3236]

Thanks for this review - I’m seriously considering the NDH 30 or HD600 … Subscribed. May I ask how seamlessly the RME remote works with the UFX mk1 … it can’t plug directly into the UFX, can it - it needs to run via your computer? No issues with it, at all? Do you find it very helpful with workflow? Thanks again! Look forward to more videos from you … 😎👍🏼

[@FoliaSound]

Works like a charm and can't live without it. You plug it in, using you PC USB port.

[@LPArtProductions]

Składam skargę! ;) przez ten film jestem biedniejszy o 3 tysiące PLN ;) Napisze tylko tyle, Neuman NDH 30 po prostu są perfekcyjne, o ile poprzednie słuchawki kalibrowałem za pomocą Sonarworks, tutaj nie ma takiej potrzeby, są płaskie jak stół! Najlepszy zakup od dawna!

[@FoliaSound]

Uuups, sorry :) Ale nie gadaj, że źle grają ;)

[@juliansimmons7700]

You guys should try the HPH-MT8. Sorry to say my DT1990 just don't come close. The HPH-MT8 are perhaps light around the mid-bass region, but otherwise very close to my Neumann KH120 monitor speakers.

[@FoliaSound]

Thanks, I never tried them!

[@palaHD]

I bought some but sent them straight back,quality was good but lacked too much bass for my liking

[@juliansimmons7700]

@@palaHD ...yes my view changed on them, I might edit my remark above. In the end I'm revolving around three headphones, my DT1990 with Dekoni Elite Velour pads (those pads make a useful difference), the Shure 840A with 1540 Alcantara Pads (again those pads make a useful difference), and my MT5. The MT5 are very good in all areas but sound a bit boxy, the Shure 840A highs a bit too hyped and overall slightly confused but otherwise a very good balance and plenty of low end, the DT1990 extremely detailed over all frequencies though again a bit hyped in the highs. The DT1990 are a pro tool and the intricacy of detail is on another level to any headphone I've tried, but they're not the most pleasurable to listen to. The Shure 840 very good and 'fruity' if you can get used to the highs and the slight confusion (not the best transient response), the MT5 as an everyday headphone, very tight sound, clear slightly forward mids and low mids, and nothing annoying - and your brain adapts to the less than open sound. Best of my others, goes to the ATH-A990Z, very good and open sound, very deep low end, clear smooth highs, but not the fastest in transient response, and the weird headband design is annoying, the biggest issue with these is the bass is just too strong for me. The MT8 don't figure for me any more.

[@palaHD]

@@juliansimmons7700thanks for this insight mate !

[@juliansimmons7700]

@@palaHD Currently I'm using the Shure 840A, liking them, they're not super critical/fast headphones - but that also means they're more listenable. Good bass, openness, freq response flat but far from boring, nothing weird going on. Prefer then with the 1540 Alcantara Pads (which are expensive), they just tame the highs a bit (and are softer on the head!), but the stocks pads have a bit more punch. The Shure 1840 are not good at all in my book, Shure have an issue with distortion (too flexible cones and not powerful enough driver magnets) - which in the 1840 is just not acceptable; in the 840 it's not an issue at all unless you are picky. Shure 840A for listening and 'pleasurable mixing/mastering' or DT1990 for very critical work. MT5 drive easy, and are my rough and ready headphone - I do like their tight response - very defined but overall a bit dark (though due to this you can turn them up !! and really let music hit you - and then the darkness is gone and they give another universe no other headphone can / most headphones are annoying 'turned up') for many the MT5 are a bit too dark though. All I can say... hope it helps.

[@DJGlashammer]

Wow, a really great review. I buy your opinion 100%. You know what you're talking about. I'm also looking at the moment. As a beginner, I'm slowly starting to feel that I'm at the point where I need better tools. I need to do something about monitoring in particular. Could you be so kind and tell me your opinion about the Sennheiser 650? From everything I've seen so fair in the i-net , I think this one could be a good fit for me. But I think, as you've described everything, the Neumann will be my candidate.

[@flus.]

Thanks for this in depth review! But didn't they put the cable of the Neumann on the right side or did they "fix" it?

[@FoliaSound]

It's on the right, why is it bad?

[@flus.]

@@FoliaSound ​ @Folia Soundstudio Not that I know. Should be no difference. But he put it on with the cable on the left side at 37:09 :) I thought he did that the whole video but he didnt

[@wildmilne]

Would like to see your comparison of the 20 and 30, for tracking I might need closer back but I wonder if they are still viable for mixing. It’s not easy to find these in stores for Listening for me.

[@sagarchawla8145]

Bump

[@mrcoffeebone2279]

Bump

[@jurekolenc6157]

Thank you for review. I had DT 1990 but they broke down so I was a bit pissed with them. Loved them since they were great for me. (My first expensive headphone). But I said to my self lets try something new. So I was looking for a review comparing DT1990 to N30. And I am pleased since I was looking for new ones for mixing. Thank you for detailed review. Will get N30 in couple of months! Beware of internet reviews, some totally praise Neumann and some hate it so much they call them boring and having muddy 2-4khz. So one day you are wanting them other you are afraid of them. But your review helped a lot! Thanks! What would you say for Audeze LCD-X for future investment later down the line?

[@MoonshineBeforeSunshine]

Yes, it's the same with DT 1990 Pro, too - some people hate it and some love it. BTW, there is a new contender in the market as well, the HD490 Pro from Sennheiser. What did you end up getting? Would like to hear your impressions on your new set of cans compared to the DT 1990 Pro.

[@Shy_Man01]

Ndh 30 can use on multi fx (helix lt from line6)?

[@popwa6977]

GOOD JOB

[@FoliaSound]

Thx!

[@66DrDave]

Hi, I have a pair of Avantone Pro Mixphones MP1, which has some nice features and sound nice to me. I also have some Avantone Pro Planar headphones, which I haven't used much yet. I would have liked to see what you thought of them, though they both maybe below the budget you were pitching for. Both the Avantone headphones are good build quality IMO. I think that I like them more than my Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser, KRK, Sony and whatever the others I have. 🙂

[@66DrDave]

Oh sorry. Great review.

[@FoliaSound]

I will try that one day for sure!

[@waves7300]

What kind of acoustic panels are those?

[@Therapyxx]

Hey, and what do you think in comparison between Sennheiser HD 600 and Neumann's?

[@FoliaSound]

I think that they share a very similar driver, so the comparison would be a nice thing. I'll think about it!

[@Therapyxx]

@@FoliaSound well, I already ordered Neumann. previously I had 660s for 2 years, so I can compare them by my feeling :D

[@FoliaSound]

@@Therapyxx , oooh, please, let me know what your thoughts are when you compare them!

[@c-samleystudios1573]

@@TherapyxxHave you compared them? I have a 660S2 which is pretty similar and I was wondering how the Neumanns would compare.

[@Therapyxx]

@@c-samleystudios1573 Hey, forgot to answer, saw the comment previously. Well. First day was really a day of dissapointment. I started looking around the internet and searching whats wrong. They were really to bright and mid focused to my ears. I found an EQ, where people apply some fixes. There are more than just 3-band EQ, but I did it only in 3-band version. +4DB at 150Hz - 0.8Q, -4DB at 3.7k - 2.5Q. Didnt touch any higher freqs, as its completely fine to me after 660s. It fixed at least my will to return it back. I also have Denon 7200, and listened to music only with them first week. But everything whats related to videos, calls, guitar etc I used neumann. What I really liked - is a layered bass, its really great and detailed. The comfort is also better than 660s and with a time got much better. I would say, after 2-3 weeks of usage - I started to use neumann at full time and wanted to sell my Denons aswell. Right now I use only neumann and my speakers. But comparing now to denons.... Some music is better on neumann, some on denon. If its instrumental, like acoustic guiatar or EDM - Neumann If its poor/average quality rock/metal - denon.

[@TheMixClub]

So i think im picking up the NDH 30s tonight. I had the NDH 20s and loved them but something bugged me around 6.3 to 4k and this is always the case for me with closed back.. i know this sounds crazy hard to explain.. they just felt like the highs pinched... Oh i did wanna edit this and also say.. that the NDH 20s also felt like my room almost... i bet that the ND30s nail it.. your not the first i have hurd say this...

[@FoliaSound]

You won't regret this decision :) Write a word when you put them on!

[@TheMixClub]

So i could not wait i had to tell you.. Im waiting on Fedx to drop off the ND30s today. I did sleep on this about 4mo before i bought. I will post back after i check them out. So if Neumann checks this out.. it was your great demo that made me pull the trigger. I just wanted to post in real time when i get them with my thoughts.@@FoliaSound

[@TheMixClub]

So the NDH 30s Arrived. Im in freaking shock. It feels like Im in a room. The sound stage is great. I have been wanting to mix on phones for my live streams. I have looked at all the heavy hitters and as pre owner of the NDH 20s i felt i had to give them a go. I could always send them back up get what im after. I always struggle with the lows in phone and the highs always tucker me out... No with the NDH 30s so far.. The NDH 30s got ya covered. Man you can hear the mud.. it gonna be a dream crafting the lows.

[@tkelong3569]

DT 1990 Pros sound incredible. Sound so close to my monitors that I can actually mix using them. Haven’t ever said that about any other headphones I’ve owned.

[@KyleGSaunders]

Where you get your sound panels from looks pretty thick ?

[@FoliaSound]

I made them myself. 80 kg/m3 mineral wool, 20 cm thick!

[@FedericoMissio]

Thanks to your video I finally tried the NDH 30: very beautiful indeed, but... did you ever tried the Ollo Audio S4X and the Sennheiser HD 560S ? Have to specify that I'm a musician/producer, not a reseller :) And I would love a comparison between these models... Please answer this comment in case you gonna make it so that I can come back to you. Thank you again for your attention and.. much respect for what you do and how!

[@supernotnatural]

I've bought NDH30 for 350$, 2nd hand 4 months old. For that price, I couldn't let it go.

[@FoliaSound]

N i c e !

[@starkid9736]

haha the Neumann Face (this is possible) ive had it too with my ndh 20s u can work fast because u can see normal without thinking for me this is complete normal hearing u can hear the room in the right size to the transients and vice versa i trust them for real and iam a listening Na*i (hobby producer nerd -dubby techno) the highs in headphones always sound wrong to me (distant and size of objects) not on this one all is scaled right when listen to old jazz stuff u can hear the suface of the materials and the force witch lets it vibrate they seal very good (my place can be loud) so u can enjoy and work in peace u have to place them accurate on ur ears or they sound 10-20% off comfort: i wear them for hours (i forget that having them on) i like to say somthing to the freq resp ..there is alot talk about liniar or skewed is it any good are they lying... the +10db bass focus moves ur perspective near the soundsource also people like this curve on average on headphones (natural impression) the somewhat thined 3k avoids tingle ur view so u wanne look close and can find richness in detail in the natural highs effordless hearing

[@veritas7010]

Honestly dn really wish someone compared ndh30 along hd600

[@auxtone1332]

I think we got a new HD800 finally

[@FoliaSound]

Might be!

[@MichaelLaing71]

With the Shure srh1840, a lot is down to the amount of time you get to burn them in. They only really start to open up after 20 hour an really you need a lot longer than that for them to really sound excellent. I have a pair and I can't really say I get any noticeable harmonic distortion, though I have slightly modified them adding toilet roll to the earcups (others use cotton wool, cigarette tip or rope, all of which slightly adjust the sound.

[@FoliaSound]

I bought them as a demo pair, so they were surely burnt in. They weren't broken, too. How do I know? After the test I went to a store to listen to another pair of these. Exactly same result, sorry to say...

[@kyveriver4316]

would be awesome if u did a review again on how u feel about the neumanns now :D

[@FoliaSound]

You mean: how I feel about Neumanns now? They are same amazing as a month ago :)

[@kyveriver4316]

@@FoliaSound awesome! Just if you had any new insights on them. A long term review or so. Maybe how mixes translate to other systems etc? Maybe I just want more reviews to watch 😂

[@FoliaSound]

@@kyveriver4316 , they really can replace monitors. The way they present the sound is really objective, that's my main impression. Also, they're insanely detailed.

[@kyveriver4316]

@@FoliaSound yeah, they seem quite nice on paper as well. Found any good carrying case for it?

[@FoliaSound]

@@kyveriver4316 , don't need one. They stay in the studio all the time.

[@DD-dp4pj]

The reason why Shure is a plastic, good plastic by the way, to make them super light and not all is plastic some are metal but also light, these are the most comfortable headphones in the market so complaints about the built quality is stupid, they are very good built headphones.

[@KAL-589]

Man, I've been researching the NDH30 all day today and just stumbled upon your review. Subbed. Great review. I've been so disappointed by the direction Beyerdynamic has gone over the years but I love my Ultrasone Edition 8 and 12. These Neumann look like a good German addition. Btw, which Focal would be similar/better to the NDH30?

[@FoliaSound]

Hey, thanks! Focals are actually insane, try them, too!

[@morespinach9832]

@@FoliaSound which one in particular would compete with NDH20 or 30?

[@anabain]

Very good for monitoring/tool at the studio. Stay away from them for the audophile thing.

[@evanduril]

Pożyczyć Ci Steven Slate Audio VSX do porównania? :>

[@FoliaSound]

Słyszałem, nawet kilkakrotnie. Bardzo ciekawy system, dający dobre rezultaty, ale - tak zupełnie szczerze - do Neumannów nie ma żadnego startu. Zaprosiłbym Cię z nimi do studia po to, żebyś się przekonał o tym osobiście :)

[@evanduril]

@@FoliaSound Dopiero co kupiłem, nie będę zmieniał ;p Poza tym to nie ten budżet. Ale myślę, że wygrałyby z resztą?

[@shellmaster1771]

Dein ergonomischer Stuhl sieht sehr komfortabel aus. Was für ein Fabrikat ist das? Beste Grüße aus Berlin.... 😉

[@FoliaSound]

Hi! This chair is called Ergohuman and it's made by a Polish company Grospol. This is definitely the best thing I've sat on and I highly recommend it!

[@musikus7092]

Do you mastered your Videos with any of them? Your sound in the upper midrange is very annoying. I listened with my Yamaha HS7

[@FoliaSound]

How is it annoying? The lower sibilance harshness? This is an irresistible charm of Polish language, paired up with a cheap Rode mic, my friend :) I switched to a better mic two vids ago!

[@aleksanderpapierz]

🔥

[@alexdeguy7570]

Merci !!!!

[@FoliaSound]

No problem, man!

[@Mihalyofficial]

The beyer is so harsh and bright in the highs, it hurts my ears. I dont even know how you can consider them in this comparison. Not even close to flat. Just overpowers everything else in the frequency range.

[@uglymob591]

I wanna rap on your intro so bad 😂

[@worldgonewrong2049]

I own and regularly utilize the 1990 Pro's and the SRH1840 when doing spot checking during mixing and mastering. I find that they are both extremely good headphones. The Shure are the most comfortable headphones of the two. They do not create any wearing fatigue or listening fatigue compared to the 1990's, which have a sizzling high end and are not as comfortable if worn for extended periods of time. I prefer the 1840's overall and make frequent mixing adjustments based on them and the results are very good. I look forward to sampling the Neumann's. I expect them to be better, but I doubt they will be more comfortable than the 1840's. If they are, bonus. My 1840's sound great, as do my 1990's. Perhaps you have a faulty pair, or perhaps you just enjoy bashing Shure 1840's. Either way, not a good look.

[@jacksonredstone9530]

Fascinating. I had these too once upon a time but thought mine were defective too with the bass. every sine wave from 60hz-1khz sounded more like a triangle wave lol. but I absolutely loved the midrange and treble (most detailed I've heard). there may have been a few peaks and dips but nothing too out of the ordinary, like I didn't hear that roll-off in the highs he mentioned. so seeing this video and his reaction matching most of what I heard was alarming. but if you really don't hear that distortion, I may try them again in the future. I don't have the dt1990's or ndh30's, but I have the ndh20's. they sound a bit better than the sennheisers overall, yes. so do the srh1840's honestly moreso than the neumanns. and the bass is boosted, but I've adapted and still seem to make good mixing decisions with it like that. the actual frequency response is horrifying. but they mask almost *nothing* in practice. I've never heard headphones with this kind of instrument separation. it's also easier to hear some of the quiet details as a result. mud in the 200-500hz sort of range is identifiable but you can hear a lot more clearly the exact causes and find more relevant fixes that way. so as a tool the neumanns are crazy useful.

[@Kupigitaru]

Here is one example. If you want a heavy low dj poolboi -it's good to hear your voice or Danny Howells - Balance 024 this is actually a heavy bottom

[@FoliaSound]

Thanks, I'll try them next time!

[@ivayloivanov3744]

I have DT 1990 from like a two years and I am surprised that so many people prize them and use them for purely enjoyment purposes. I think they are very transparent and bring up the transients in your face, even when you EQ out the high frequency peaks you can still hear the transients very clearly. I find these technicalities not very musical for the common audiophile who is not producing music. Definitely very polarizing headphone, you love or hate it. You rated them pretty high, but judging by your face expressions you didn't click with them at all.

[@morespinach9832]

Neumann ND30. Is awesome.

[@FoliaSound]

True!

[@The_Absurdistt]

Excellent video. What is considered a "proper" headphone input? My interface is an Audient iD44. I'm curious if thr Audient is adequate for the Focals or will they require an external headphone amp? Cheers.

[@Artek604]

Each high-end headphones require couple of days/weeks to be broken-in, so it can be very misleading to judge them right out of the box.

[@FoliaSound]

I didn't. They all got proper burn in.

[@Artek604]

@@FoliaSound Sorry, I stand corrected then :)

[@igrvass]

sound demo

[@tumygranados1324]

Thanks for all the deep analysis. If you have a budget between USD300 and USD400, what would be your best option for headphones..? I am not a professional user but I want to have the best quality for podcasting and musical projects, considering maximum price I can get. .

[@tumygranados1324]

Please consider other brands as well. Thank you so much.

[@tumygranados1324]

@foliasound Appreciate your comments and recommendation here.... thanks

[@keithdunwoody1302]

Beyer-Dynamic always have a V curve so I can't get into them.

[@FoliaSound]

Beyers are extremely harsh in highest tops and it applies to all their pro models, I'm afraid. It's a pure no for me.

[@paulstraszewski736]

jakie Boxy masz z przodu?

[@paulstraszewski736]

KS Digital C88

[@paulstraszewski736]

a jak myslisz o JBL´ach stojacych z tylu ?

[@FoliaSound]

Są zaskakująco dobre, jak na swoją cenę, przy czym przy wyższych wartościach SPL - niestety mocno zniekształcają i tutaj słychać, czemu są tak tanie.

[@rhn4710]

the funny thing is that headphones are factory burnt in and yet people claim there is a difference

[@conrow1157]

After many tests, Sennheiser HD600

[@FoliaSound]

NDH 30 are based on a 598 driver :)

[@georgetarbaya2001]

21:19 *wind noise =) international language =)

[@tomverswyvel6370]

lol Shure SRH1840 is so more detail trust me , use it on a adi 2 pro fs r .

[@FoliaSound]

Erm, I listened to both head to head and believe me: NDH 30 plays in a completely different league. I can confirm that after using them for over a year now.

[@tomverswyvel6370]

@@FoliaSound I did , the stereo image and transient attack lacks major ..

[@lukassbeataddicts]

The brutal truth is that it doesn't matter. The best mix you can achieve on headphones, is on ones that you listen to other poeple music to.