Sonic PERFECTION! The ZMF Caldera does NOT disappoint.

[@Haasaaroni]

I think my jaw actually dropped when I first put these on and heard them. These capture that sense of realism in timbre and tactility in a way I’ve never heard in a headphone before. Completely agree that these are a wonderfully natural headphone, but disagree that they don’t impress ;)

[@asplmn]

The timbre is amazing. It's a slight notch below the Atrium and Auteur Classic, but that's expected being a planar. Zach is a wizard.

[@PassionforSound]

I'm glad to hear they impressed you, Aaron! I hope I am wrong and that lots of people will be like you and be impressed by them initially to then want to own them and enjoy them long term. I agree about the timbre being so good! I think they are probably more accurate than the Atriums, but there is something magic about the Atriums' warmth.

[@WoodstockG54]

How would you think they would match with a Hugo TT2?

[@PassionforSound]

Great! I used them with the TT2 when I had them here.

[@DirectorsGarage]

Oh my brother in sound-- I was blown away by the Caldera! They super impressed me as a Susvara-similar sound with a bit less detail and much better bass.

[@PassionforSound]

Absolutely. There'll be those that argue the Susvara produces better soundstage, but the tonal balance of the Caldera is just wonderful to me and worth the trade off I think

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Caldera atrium, closed, and vo on the desk here for assessment, it’s a fascinating headphone. Subjectively Atrium has the best tuning of any headphones for my preference period but when it comes to CAL, ZMF have definitely lifted there bar and thrown it up in the air where there headphones are concerned.

[@hes182]

If you have to pick just one ZMF for first person shooters and music listening. what would you pick, And why ?

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@@hes182 it would be a big fight between caldera and atrium for me, But I think cal will win out. It’s a far more, technically capable head phone, but for a first person shooter, I honestly don’t think I would use any ZMF personally HD 800 S for gaming But I think CaL will do an okay job

[@PassionforSound]

I'm with CMA on that one. VO or Caldera (or Auteur Classic) for gaming if staying ZMF. Caldera is definitely my overall choice for music, gaming, etc., but I also agree that the Atrium is glorious in many ways, particularly with a very transparent/liquid tube amp (one that lets the music "flow")

[@pandapv]

don't sleep on the auteur classics! They stage really naturally and are great for games and even better for music. The atriums as well but they're double the cost and whether that's worth it depends on if you like the frequency response changes IMO (more boosted bass, de-emphasized treble) my absolute favorite for gaming are the Eikons since they share the traits of the auteur (though auteurs are better for music) but with more subbass and they're closed back. Sadly they're no longer available (well worth the used price though IMO). The atrium closed might be interesting for that but I haven't heard them

[@PassionforSound]

The Atrium Closed is much stronger in the bass (extension) than Atrium. I agree that the Auteur Classics are brilliant for their neutral sound and staging.

[@mikylenaidoo1779]

In the last year and a half ,I first owned the elites , then sold them for a pair of Susvaras ... Then sold the Susvara because the Caldera came into my life and I could not understand why I needed to own the Susvara any longer. Now it's caldera , all day , every day ... Just incredible to me

[@radinan]

Nice journey you had there; I have 2 questions for you: - what do you prefer about the Caldera compared to the Susvara? - what is your favorite amp for the Caldera?

[@mikylenaidoo1779]

@@radinan hey man ! The main thing I like is that the Caldera is the best timbre I've ever heard , and the Susvara has really good timbre. But the caldera just has a sense of realism I'm yet to hear in another headphone. The details are all there without being pushed in your face. With the susvara I felt as though I was listening to details for the sake of shock factor , then when I didn't want the shock anymore , I'd just stop listening to it. With the caldera I don't wanna take them off , music just flows without pushing anything in your face , just allowing you to enjoy the music fully and completely. I also like the added warmth of the Caldera. The Susvara was very neutral but because of how it presented the details in the upper range, it sound much colder and thinner by comparison. The thin character of the Susvara is great for orchestral stuff , but for the music I listen to , thicker note weight tends to be preferable. Honestly I sense the staging to be much better on the caldera. The Susvara is spacious but when instruments pan to the extreme left of extreme right , it sounds right next to your ear ,like a cheap headphone. The caldera is much better spaced out in this regard and doesn't ever feel like up close to your ear. Lastly , the build quality and confidence the caldera inspires , is unmatched , and try Susvara feels flimsy and breakable. I prefer the Questyle cma15 with the Caldera , I find this amp to be glorious with many different pairings

[@PassionforSound]

Great info, Mikyle - thank you. I tend to agree

[@radinan]

@@mikylenaidoo1779 Thanks for your answer bro, we seem to have the same taste, I also prefer thick and warmer presentation, I really need to try this Caldera asap. Take care.

[@Ray-dl5mp]

@@mikylenaidoo1779 thanks for your thoughts. I would love to own the Caldera or Atrium open someday. But this post might have sold me that Caldera is the better option if you want natural timbre. Plus it seems like this is the headphone that this reviewer (PassionforSound) seems to keep going back to based on different KZbin comments. Must be doing something different and incredible. Not a cheap price tag! That’s for sure, but perhaps worth saving up for if you’re an audiophile that wants something special. The fact that both you and passion both prefer this over the Susvara says a lot about the value here. Even if it’s super expensive, good value is good value. Thanks!

[@pandapv]

My favorite thing about the caldera is how subtle the pad changes are. You can really fine tune the sound to your taste without losing the “magic” more than any other headphone

[@PassionforSound]

That's a great point!

[@SergeySedlovsky]

Subtle? Didn't feel like it when going from stock to Suede, though that was for a short while, bass was a bit pillowy there, but there were a few other problems during the burn-in period which is definitely a real thing for this headphone. Otherwise, I'm really happy with my purchase of the Redheart Caldera :D

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you're enjoying the Calderas! I think the pad swaps are subtle in the sense that they don't change the headphone to sounding completely different, but they definitely alter the sound.

[@Armbrust210]

I recently had the opportunity to try these out and they gave me a hard time to as to how to describe them as well. Which is weird, because when you first put them on, it takes about 2 seconds to figure out their character. The best way i found to describe it is like this: They make music sound like music sounds in your head. Without speakers, when you're just having a favorite track stuck in your head. That's how they sound. Where soundstage and imaging aren't a factor. And that's how these operate as well. They just activate your beloved tracks in your head. I know this is somewhat of a... well a very loose description, but i think you could imagine how they sound like this. They won't show you things you've never heard in your music before and they probably won't wow you with detail. They mush all the parts of the track together which makes for a very noisy background. They're like the natural quality progression to consumer grade headphones in that regard. If you don't like how high-end headphones stage, then these might be for you. I personally prefer the Elite and HEKSE in comparison, but i do respect the Caldera and i think they've definetly got a place in the market.

[@PassionforSound]

That's a really interesting description and I both like it and agree. Their staging is particularly curious as you say because it's all inside the head, but there's a surprising amount of separation to the sound despite not "exploding" the sound apart like some headphones 🙂

[@stank_johnson9098]

Great review. I actually decided to buy the Meze Elite over the Caldera yesterday lol. Tough decision but I think I made the right choice since I wanted a relaxing contrast for my VC.

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked the review. It's a very tough decision, but I think you chose right if you're looking for a more relaxed listen and a contrast from the VC. Enjoy!

[@Peace_Guard]

And you always have a very non-relaxed version of the sound signature with the angled alcantaras available.

[@stevenmatsui3845]

I made the same decision at Axpona last year. I went to the show expecting to like and buy the Caldera, I left the show with the Elites. Absolutely no regrets.

[@PassionforSound]

The Elites are brilliant so no wrong decisions there, especially since they added the angled Alcantara pads - those are magic!

[@Laturales]

I love the Caldera especially with the thick pads as well. They are super thick, and i actually like that they are a little bit more intimate. I think they are like a weightier Susvara that is even more natural sounding. Great very detailed review. I agree with everything.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Javier! So glad you liked the review and even more that you're enjoying your Calderas

[@alenotta]

Nice review. I own the Empyrean and the Caldera and can say I almost exclusively reach for the Caldera these days between those two. For the Empyrean I like them with Elite pads and WyWire Platinum cable - makes them sort of between that OG Empy sound and the Elite. I also use that cable with my Caldera. The Caldera is personally my favorite headphone I've tried so far. I have it paired with a Cayin HA-300mkii and the warmth and spaciousness of that 300b SET amp is fantastic with the Caldera. The Caldera can have a lot of bass weight with the right synergy. I'm guessing that the Caldera probably feels more clinical with neutral solid state amps. If your setup is really geared to being analytical it may just come off too intense. I'd def recommend trying them out on a source that can bring out that warmer lush sound they are capable of. The Caldera tuning is neutral-ish, but also very dynamic and unique. Super addictive. I also slightly prefer the thick pads over the stock on the Caldera. I agree about the assessment of the mantle. It is a nice option, but I ended up liking without more.

[@PassionforSound]

So glad you're enjoying the Calderas. After some further playing around, I think the LTA MZ3 tube amp is my favourite with them for the same reasons you like the HA-300 I expect

[@pkal244]

How's the bass on the Caldera vs the Empy or Elite?

[@PassionforSound]

I think I covered this in the comparison section of the video, but in case I didn't, the Caldera comes across with the fuller bass because the Elite has a more emphasised midrange in comparison. I think the quality of bass from both is similar and neither the Elite nor Caldera sound unnaturally bassy, but the Caldera has the more linear overall response and sounds fuller from top to bottom as a result.

[@QQ-td9id]

Excellent review here! Just about pulling out credit card to order one, found a review with the following: "WHAT WE DON'T LIKE - Instrument separation is not top-tier - Colorations make these inappropriate for certain genres" Anyone here care to counter that comment? I listen mostly to classical and vocal, jazz, little rock& roll no metal etc.

[@PassionforSound]

I'd agree that the separation isn't top tier, but it depends on what you're comparing it to. It's also more about it having less overall space and layering rather than being congested in any way. As for the tonality, there's no headphone at any level that's perfect in that sense. These come as close as any other, but still have their own colouration.

[@irondad007]

I think pad choice matters here. The thinner pads spread things out more laterally. One thing about the Caldera is that it images very large. So that give the illusion that it’s not as separated, but it actually is. These things have amazing imaging and separation.

[@PassionforSound]

I agree that pad choice is important, but even with the normal or thick pads, these never achieve the depth and layering separation of other headphones. It doesn't mean they're not still a great headphone because they're tonally brilliant, but they're not on the same level as some others for image separation and soundstage size.

[@MeteoraEra]

I love this review vs many other reviewers who unnecessarily gush all over Zmf stuff especially caldera in a way thats very dishonest and falsely informative. Things are explained with realistic and accurate representation and i wish everyone would follow the same approach and dont hype up things. ZMF stuff are great (mostly in timber and mids) but just like everything these they have strong and weak points but overall very balanced and good not so much unreal and out of this world type of good. Glad to see finally some reviewers such as you are being more real with people.

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked my approach. I agree that all products have their strong and weak points. For ZMF, tonality is always strong (even with different tunings like Caldera, Vérité and Atrium), but staging isn't always as good as some competitors I think

[@markhershberger9477]

Yes indeed Lachlan! Your review is useful, interesting, and informative in spades and your wish about your review is fulfilled. Your core tenant of the review ( the Calderas not being “impressive”, and instead being optimally “right” in an underlying way and appealing for balance and longer term listening ), would be a challenging point to articulate, however, you did a splendid job of making that clear to those who will listen carefully to you. I’ve got VO’s and VC’s and your presentation allows me better to imagine where and how the Calderas would “fit” into my system/listening. I also have a Pendant…any further comments on the Caldera’s pairing with tubes ( beyond the Schiit amp) you could offer would be welcomed. Thank you!

[@PassionforSound]

Thank you Mark! I'm glad I could help and I can further assist with the tube question. The Calderas perform marvellously with the Linear Tube Audio MZ3 and might be my favourite combination with the Calderas. The same would hold true for the Bottlehead Mainline which is possibly more similar to the Pendant which is a transformer-coupled amp I believe. Either way, the energy and attack of the Calderas offsets beautifully with the slightly smoother presentation that makes tubes so great.

[@David-fo6oy]

Ahhh this was great. I’ve been waiting for this one. You are by far the best reviewer out there. I appreciate all your great work!

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks so much, David! Glad you liked the review

[@nimzerz2422]

Having recently heard the Atrium on the Folkvangr, I got to agree with what you said. It was one of the best combos I have ever heard. Not that it was anywhere near the technical performance of the Caldera or other headphone/amp pairings, but it was just a magical combination musically.

[@PassionforSound]

Nice to know it's not just me. It's hard to describe how fluid and enjoyable that combo is I think.

[@palefaced1]

They sound great on DNA Stratus as well.

[@PassionforSound]

I'll bet!

[@keithcarr3048]

Great review. Looks like I may be selling my Elites to help fund a king wood Caldera. Agonizing between the Atrium and the Caldera, I really feel like the Caldera is going to be my cup of tea to go along with the LCD-4z. I like the Elites, but always go back to my 4z because they just sound more full and meaty to my ears. So I think it will have to be the Caldera. Thanks for the review, really helps get a sense of what the headphone is about with no audition.

[@PassionforSound]

So glad I could help! It definitely sounds like the Caldera and Atrium could both suit your tastes. The Caldera is clearly technically stronger than the Atrium if that helps, but both are super enjoyable.

[@LorenzoNW]

Great review! "Wow factor" [coloration] tends to get old and fatiguing fast. Even delineation between every instrument can sound clinical and artificial. When I go to a symphony concert, I'm hearing the orchestra, not every tiny detail from each instrument. I understand that listening to live music is a different experience from listening to speakers or headphones but for me, I place the highest priority on a sound that's musically and emotionally engaging. And that can't happen by dissecting every frequency of every instrument to death.

[@PassionforSound]

I definitely agree! I've got a review coming up of a different headphone (two actually) where I feel the emphasis has been placed on the details more than the tonal accuracy and naturality and it makes the headphones inconsistent and unnatural.

[@lukasjanecka9996]

The „natural“ versus „impressive“ approach to sound is a big problem to me. I think many manufacturers opt for the latter because it sells better. What you as a customer oftentimes end up with then is either overly aggressive and fatiguing headphone or thin, lightweight or hollow sounding one. It tends to be sneaky and you only realize it overtime when you find yourself „reaching for one headphone more than for the other“. That is, unfortunately, usually too late to return the product, though.

[@PassionforSound]

That's so true, Lukas. I don't know if it's a deliberate sales tactic with headphones (it definitely is with TVs). It might just be a simple case of the people tuning them hearing differently to other people (which we all do)

[@arthurhaywood2184]

That’s not the stock cable. It’s actually an upgrade cable. The corded cable is the stock cable. I actually bought my Caldera at CanJam NYC. Stabilized wood. Absolutely beautiful and I love the way they both look and sound.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks Arthur. Zach sent me a few cables with the bundle of cans he sent out for review (Atrium Closed and Auteur Classic reviews coming soon) so I had no idea which was which. Glad you got to own the Caldera - enjoy!!

[@pandapv]

they come with that stiff rubbery cable, which ZMF calls the "OFC Cable" and is technically an upgrade but they include it with their higher end cans, and it also comes with the "ZMF Stock Cable" which is the fabric sleeved one and is ergonomically far superior (and sounds fine to me, I can't tell it apart from the OFC one but I do prefer litz)

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for the info!

[@jonandresen1483]

Thanks for the detailed review of these amazing headphones. I’ve had the Caldera since their release. I do prefer them with the balanced cable mostly for the feel of the cable. I also like them best with the deep suede pads. They prefer a current source with lots of power but don’t require that per se. These and the Verite Closed make a great pairing for me. I had and sold the Atrium, which I never really liked. The Caldera is so comfortable with such impressive sonics there are very few headphones that can challenge it.

[@PassionforSound]

So glad you're enjoying them so much!

[@ixoye56]

I own Aeolus and I like them a lot, I hope to get a chance to listen to these new planar headphones, Zac's headphones just keep getting better and better, in terms of looks they have always been top notch, and it's a special feeling to own a pair of ZMF's.

[@PassionforSound]

I agree. If you have the Aeolus, I believe these might be right up your alley (although that's based on what I've heard about the Aeolus, not personal experience)

[@cannibalholocaust3015]

The aesthetic of these is enough to persuade me. Calls to mind those intricately decorated mosques and buildings found in the Levant. Regarding cables, I wonder if they ever surveyed customers and found out the average spend on an aftermarket cable? That should enable them to improve the cable whilst bumping the price a bit with that proviso.

[@PassionforSound]

I agree, they're beautiful headphones! ZMF offer cables themselves so people can always choose to buy a better cable at the time of purchase. I think bundling high end cables is tricky because many people will already have a cable and wouldn't want to be charged more automatically. It's a fine balance to strike.

[@johnratcliffe6438]

I own ZMF VC Ltd and ZMF Atrium Ltd. Awesome headphones. I'm hoping to add VO, Auteur Classic and Caldera this year if I can find the cash. ZMF are not cheap!

[@soulfulfool]

yea especially if you want them all LOL

[@nicktan4530]

Definitely for rich people. Even if you able to own one is good enough.

[@soulfulfool]

@@nicktan4530 yea Nick but at least they are nice looking + made of quality materials add to it that they sound really nice and you have full package worth of that money and handmade build

[@nicktan4530]

@@soulfulfool Still... sort of overprice. As for aesthetic not my jam. And yes, materials, aesthetics and sound, add the whole package of value. They are still my dream headphone if am rich. I only earn $400 per month

[@PassionforSound]

That's quite the collection, John! Nice work. I agree with soulfulfool that the craftsmanship, comfort and sound quality definitely add up to a great headphone investment when you buy a ZMF

[@stevenmatsui3845]

I tried to like the Caldera but they just did nothing for me. I own the Susvara, 1266TC, DCA Expanse, Meze Elite and the ZMF Verite Open. The Caldera didn’t have enough bass and that made them sound lean.

[@PassionforSound]

Wow. What pads were you using for them to sound lean? Did you try with the mantle?

[@aceofspades6667]

spicy title.. going to get my popcorn for this one. Also thanks for the music suggestion on a prior video for jaimi faulkner.. liking a few of his albums.

[@aceofspades6667]

I agree with your take.. I’ve demo’d the caldera at home and they were fantastic for longer listening sessions. They don’t have the wow factor sonically like some of my other hps (1266 phi tc bass / hd800s stage). But they do everything really well are comfortable and fantastic build quality. Also being easy to drive is worth thousands as something like a susvara really need ma a very expensive amp where these are great off midfi. Did the caldera’s help to show the difference between the soloist gt v1 and v2?

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you're enjoying Jaimi Faulkner! The Calderas are a funny one. Much like the DCA Expanse, their tuning makes them less revealing of subtle gear differences. You can still hear them improve when moving up in source chain quality, but the Elites are a better critical listening tool thanks to their 'trick' tuning (that's not really a trick, just helps us perceive space more). So, yes, they did help with the GT testing, but the Elites moreso.

[@HercahyoAdiSaputro]

From my experience with Atrium, VO , and Caldera. I think Atrium and Caldera sits on the opposite end of the spectrum of ZMF house sound. They complement each other so well. Verite Open sits in the middle of spectrum, mixing characteristics of Atrium and Caldera Personally my taste leans toward the spectrum of Atrium, hence unfortunately Caldera is not really my cup of tea. Agreed on the Meze Elite comparison that it depends on the source chain. On my friends' TT2, I like the elite better. On my personal R26+300b tube amp, I like Caldera more.

[@PassionforSound]

That makes total sense! The Calderas are magic on tubes. I've been using them a lot on the MZ3 tube amp lately and it's magic. I also agree with what you're saying about Atrium and Caldera being somewhat opposites too. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@sonicthehedgehog989]

I've the VC. So when I went to canjam to try the caldera as I was interested in getting one, what I ended up doing is not buying it why you may ask. Well in my opinion, the caldera sounds a lot like dynamic driver headphones, but it has a bit more brightness than what I like plus the soundstage wasn't impressive, details were good and the imaging was good as well. Now the verities sound more like a planar than a dynamic, fast, punchy, dynamic, and detailed and energetic. You feel like the verite is showing you what it can do while the caldera just plays audio. I feel like the caldera is more suitable for things like classical and jazz, although the soundstage isn't big. But the verities are an all rounder hands down. Fast, dynamic, punchy, detailed, just lovely. I'm thinking about getting the atrium instead of the caldera.

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you got to try the Caldera and see if it is right for you. Based on what you've said, I think the Atrium might be a great choice for an open back to complement your VCs.

[@sonicthehedgehog989]

@@PassionforSound thank for your reply. Yea that's what I sensed while trying the atrium. It wasn't as fast or detailed like the VC ( especially hardwood versions), but it represented the sound in a more laid back, more grand manner in my opinion, it's a different enough type of experience that certainly compliments the VC very well.

[@curlmythic]

Hi Lachlan, long time viewer here. You've gone from strength to strength over the years. I particularly appreciate how comparison sections have evolved. Really top of your game, mate.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks so much, Heath! I've got some new content ideas coming in August so hopefully there's still more improvement to be had 🤞🙂

[@amaya897]

I own Elite and Verite Open and I heard Susvara several times on my setup (Holo Bliss with Holo May). Saying this I feel there is definitly a WOW moment when you put Caldera on. There is combination of instrument body oomph feel alongside with textural detail and overall very natural balance that I havent heard yet. Caldera became my go to headphone in a matter of days. I barely use Verite and Elite atm. Elite sounds unnatural and mechanic compared to Caldera having about the same detail with less body and texture to instruments, Verite does the female Vocals slightly better and has a beautiful 3d Stage that Caldera is slightly lacking but the detail and texture is just not there, everythign feels veiled after listening to Caldera. Susvara is the only headphone that comes close, and does fairly few things better, like the stage, and overall eternal presentation, the seperation is better and sometimes there is a bit more detail. But thats a trade off I am wiling to take since Susvara lacks the meaty body of Caldera and that natural musicality and oomph especially in heavier rock, fusion and metal. It’s just more fun to use Caldera during daily work and for long listening sessions. All in all probably the best balanced planar driver Headphone on the market today, which I would place somewhere between Susvara and Abyss, having slgithly lower technicalities than any of those, but having a much more enjoyable tuning to my ear.

[@canibiteyou8980]

I agree. I have Susvara and Caldera is just much more enjoyable to me, it still has great technicalities likely slightly above Meze Elite (the texture you talk about) but its so much more fun than Susvara.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks both for sharing your experiences! It's nice to hear that this headphone is more popular than I maybe expected - it definitely deserves to be popular.

[@amaya897]

@@PassionforSound probably the biggest and most ambitious release by Zach so far, really no reason for it to be unpopular I think? The reviews so far been stellar :D

[@PassionforSound]

I'd heard/seen fairly mixed impressions when I first looked at some early reviews so I'm glad that changed. I hadn't kept up to date with reviews (don't have time) so it's great if the early impressions haven't stayed around so much.

[@Peace_Guard]

@@amaya897 Hello Kim, How would you compare sound of Elites with the new AA pads (only listen with those, not a fan of hybrids) to Caldera? As for the Caldera popularity comment, I think if you count how many people love it per how many had a chance to hear it it probably tops the list of all totls. Also shows in the position in Headfonia's best headphone 2023 ongoing poll (considering it's by far the most recent headphone).

[@jonmarinos7170]

THE review I’ve been waiting for! Love my Atrium! Will definitely be buying the Caldera to compliment.

[@PassionforSound]

They are a perfect complement. Both amazing, but tonally very different. Hope you get them soon!

[@brothatwasepic]

Awesome vid Lachlan my boy ❤. Zach is one of the most honest people I have run across in this industry and I know he supports you. Well done brothers

[@PassionforSound]

So glad you liked the vid! Zach is great - I agree and making some awesome headphones

[@perinkolamanandganesh4226]

Great review. When I first tried the Caldera, I had the same thought - what's all the fuss about? But after a few hours of auditioning over a couple of days, I was sold and purchased it. This one takes a while to get but once you do, it is indeed magic. It's sublime.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for sharing your experiences! So glad you got the time to hear their magic and chose to buy them for long term enjoyment!

[@photoipster]

A brilliant review. I loved your comparisons, and truly appreciate your vis a vis meze elites. Makes your recommendation of the caldera all the more weighty. I can’t wait to hear them first hand!

[@PassionforSound]

I hope you like them when you try them. Please let me know what you think! 🙂

[@findingabby]

I've been fortunate enough to have tried nearly every TOTL on the market. I tried the Caldera based on your opinion and Director's Garage. It was a great TOTL headphone, but it sure isn't on the top of my stack. As always, great video!

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for sharing. Which headphone/s is/are?

[@SiliDuffa]

Caldera made you work for this one! haha Keep the reviews coming !!!

[@PassionforSound]

Sure did!

[@johnratcliffe6438]

I guess for me, the question is how close is Caldera to Susvara?

[@spamcan9208]

I've always wondered if I could tell the difference between a few hundred, around a thousand, and a few thousand dollars in a dac/amp/headphone setup. And if I could, where does the price start to rapidly increase to get diminishing improvements? While some are looking for every last bit of detail I'm looking more for a musical experience. I don't want to critically listen, I want to go on a musical adventure. Unfortunately this is way out of my price range. I have an idea of what I'm looking for and what I like as well as an approximate budget but after that I don't really know where to go from there.

[@PassionforSound]

If musical enjoyment is the emphasis, I would recommend looking at the HD6.. series from Sennheiser, Meze 109 Pro, or ZMF Atrium as three of the best pure enjoyment cans I've tried.

[@amaya897]

You can get a ZMF Verite Open for 1,5k nowdays second hand with little bit of pad rolling and a good tube amp for around 600-800 like liquid platinum or valhalla 2 you are up for a big journey with no looking back. Atrium is probably even better since it’s more calmly tuned, but will come at a higher price. Meze 109 is a great budget advice too!

[@Peace_Guard]

@@PassionforSound So it seems in the end timbre determines enjoyment, as those are also the three options usually cited for best timbre :)

[@PassionforSound]

I do think that timbre is very important for enjoyment. If the timbre/tonality of a headphone is off, the whole listening experience can become uncomfortable and distracting.

[@sentientsteve9351]

It's been a few months, are you still picking up the Caldera ahead of the elites for your general listening? Also I had a very similar experience when I picked up my Utopia's, initial listen was meh and disappointment vs the hype but over time I've found they are the best listening experience I have in headphones and I really enjoy them. When open back listening opportunity presents itself I find I'm picking the Utopia's over my previous favorite the Verite Closed. My eyes are now fixed on second hand market for an opportunity for Elites or Caldera's.

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, still grabbing the Calderas over the Elites. It's more balanced now than before, but it still slightly favour the Calderas and will need to chat to Zach about getting a pair of my own 🙂

[@palefaced1]

They are best with the suede or vegan pads. Best headphones I've ever heard, and I own many, many headphones.

[@PassionforSound]

I don't know that I've tried the vegan pads. Definitely a fan of the thick pads though. It's just great that there are so many choices!

[@BillyKueekSG]

I have the Atrium now so I am less likely to go with the Caldera. My cervical spine has some screws and plates so I’d prefer headphones that are light too. At present, I am targeting to have another planar so Elite is high up on my list. I’ll have to really listen to the Susvara if I get a chance to. Update on 19 September, the Susvara has been running for 100 hours now.

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, Elites and Susvaras are definitely a lighter option for you. Looking forward to reading your impressions when you get to try the Susvaras

[@BillyKueekSG]

@@PassionforSound it’s going to take a while, not much work this year so I can’t spend.

[@irondad007]

Atrium’s are awesome headphones! They’re my favorite dynamic at any price.

[@kingstoler]

That's a really beautiful Atrium

[@PassionforSound]

Zach did well in choosing this one for me I think. They look even better in person if that's possible!

[@Nephilim-81]

What a terrific video, Lachlan. You uncover a lot of ground for people to understand this headphone. With all that you adore and appreciate from the Elites, Caldera and Susvara I really hope you’ll try the original D-8000 from Final Audio. Love to hear what you think of those. 😊

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked the video! I would LOVE to try the D8000 (any version), but have had no luck with Final Audio so far. :(

[@Nephilim-81]

@@PassionforSound umm? I think that would mainly have to do with geographical instances of distance. Japan to Australia? Yikes. Maybe a fellow discord user might help you out someday. 😊 Anyhow. I really believe this will be a headphone you’ll enjoy. I can’t for the live of me seeing you dislike it given what you like soundwise. :)

[@PassionforSound]

I think geography is part of it and the local distributor being a bit difficult is the other part.

[@Nephilim-81]

@@PassionforSound I’m sorry to hear that because your ears deserve to evaluate that headphone. I hope something gets worked out down the line. I think the original D-8000 will grab you. They are like the Meze Elites, but just a touch more narrowness in sound and with greater detail/depth. 😊

[@PassionforSound]

I'm still working on trying them. If I can find a pair secondhand or have someone lend them to me, I'll definitely go for it.

[@mariodrv]

How does the harder wood impact the Atrium sound?

[@PassionforSound]

I haven't compared side-by-side to know, but I would expect that it might create slightly less resonance through the chassis (or perhaps different resonance). I think inside the cups won't alter much because of the Atrium Damping System.

[@Yeastextract]

The lack of initial wow factor sounds like a good thing, most hifi products which have a wow factor initially become fatiguing over time when lived with every day. I’m not interested in swapping components every year or two when I buy, I buy for the long term and I generally try to ignore wow factor.

[@PassionforSound]

That's an extremely wise approach, Jimboob. The Calderas have become my go-to headphone since arriving for this review so there's some proof to your statement right there. 🙂

[@irondad007]

Awesome review! It’s too bad you didn’t get to try the thin Cowhide pads. They do similar things as the lambskin thin, but are less bright. I’m one who prefers the thinner pads to stock or thick. Anyway, great job 👏🏼

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked the review. I didn't realise there were two different thin pads - that's interesting.

[@irondad007]

@@PassionforSound there’s even another pad option as well! It’s called the Caldera Ultra Perforated lambskin. I actually got to try those on my Atrium (they’re quite popular for Atrium owners), but I haven’t heard them on the Caldera yet. Zach gives people a lot of ways to tweak your sound preference. It’s a great business model, in my opinion.

[@joseluishernandezseptien]

Wow! What a surprise watching the video after reading the title! Do you like it more than LCD-5? Are they too different in tuning?

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, the title was a bit 'baity', but not untrue because the Calderas won't amaze a lot of people even though they are fantastic. I think the LCD-5 is a more technical sounding headphone, but I sold them and would much prefer to own the Caldera.

[@joseluishernandezseptien]

@@PassionforSound Thank you, Lachland!

[@joseluishernandezseptien]

@@PassionforSound it was interesting to hear that Caldera and Hugo didn’t have good synergy… When Rafael Caldera and Hugo Chavez met the destruction of Venezuela started 🙈

[@PassionforSound]

Haha. There's no destruction here, but I do think the Calderas work better from some other devices

[@joseluishernandezseptien]

@@PassionforSound Hehe. Good to know!

[@shawnpwatsons1]

They've said the same things about the Susvara...that the initial impression was not that "Wow"...that it doesn't do any "tricks"...etc. So, basically you're saying Caldara is similar in that way to Susvara in that "natural" sound. So that is high praise. I said it before in a previous post (several months ago) that my money was on Caldera being your A number 1 headphone to which you said, "I don't know about that." LOL : ) So happy for you and our community.

[@PassionforSound]

Haha. Well predicted! I had read and heard things (which are a little inaccurate in hindsight) so I'm glad I was wrong. I actually found the Susvaras more impressive on first listen, but they weren't as enjoyable for long term listening across a wide range of genres for me.

[@MsMultiwave]

Thank you for the great review!

[@PassionforSound]

My pleasure! Glad you liked it

[@MsMultiwave]

@@PassionforSound Appreciative of all of your efforts. I know how much time you must spend! Value your reviews on all the equipment!

[@PassionforSound]

Cheers MM

[@frederf69]

for that kinda dough i'd expect a great cable which terminates anyway i want on ordering + a few different pads. very good review, thank you ✌😎👍

[@PassionforSound]

Sadly, most companies don't provide great cables with TOTL headphones. Glad you liked the review

[@lioness9432]

In terms of enjoyment - How you will compare the Caldera with the Meze's and the Atrium? Also which one is the most natural for vocals? they are on par with susvara?

[@PassionforSound]

I think all three of those (Elites, Caldera and Atrium) are exceptionally enjoyable, but the Atriums are a step behind on the technicalities. As for the naturality of vocals, I think that's extremely subjective because the mixing of vocals and our expectations of vocals are all a bit different. The Calderas aren't perfectly natural, but they are very enjoyable. I'd say the same about the Susvaras on vocals too though - very enjoyable, but they still have some colouration

[@hes182]

If I have to pick just one ZMF for music and first person shooters, what ZMF would you pick ? And why ? I can’t demo in my country 😅

[@PassionforSound]

It would have to be the Caldera, but knowing that you're giving up overall soundstage size and depth. I think Atrium would be my second choice. It's less technical, but so enjoyable for everything

[@marcob.7801]

Nice review! How about a review of the ModHouse Tungstens (both single and double sided)??? Thx.

[@PassionforSound]

Working on it. Getting stock will be the key, but I've been in touch with Ryan already.

[@marcob.7801]

Great! Looking forward!@@PassionforSound

[@nonchalantd]

He's the smoothest presenter I've ever heard.

[@PassionforSound]

😁

[@LorenzoNW]

Have you auditioned the 4th Generation ToneKraft cable from Audio Envy? Personally, I'd rather have a throw-away cable than have a portion of the money I pay go towards a mid-end cable that I'm going to upgrade anyway. I bought the ToneKraft for my Sennheiser 800S and it totally transformed it for the better. The stock cable it comes with is junk too.

[@PassionforSound]

I haven't tried that one. Thanks for bringing it to my attention

[@nick_g]

That was a spicy 🌶️ opener for the vid 😂

[@PassionforSound]

Haha. Yep. Working the system a bit to hopefully get a few more people watching. :)

[@carminedesanto6746]

High praise and this is another example of a Top Tier headphone. Great review ..and yes ☕️🍕was consumed during this review 😁 Take care 👍

[@PassionforSound]

Hope you enjoyed the meal :D

[@carminedesanto6746]

@@PassionforSound And your musical selection for this video..I was listening to it on my Moondrop Variations 😁

[@PassionforSound]

Great news! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂🙂

[@gio.b8808]

How would you compare these to the Stax X9000? Which one do you think is better?

[@PassionforSound]

I'm yet to get deep enough into electrostatics to answer that, but the journey is beginning soon...

[@peterdevito6524]

Thanks for an excellent & insightful review. It's a long video, but given how many moves this headphone has, you need a lot of time to run it all down. The Caldera is not one of those "snapshot" headphones where you hear everything it does well (and not so well) on first listen...not even close. It takes real time to zero in on the qualities that make it something special.

[@PassionforSound]

I completely agree, Peter. Glad you liked the video 🙂

[@irondad007]

Well said! These give you high quality protein, not cane sugar.

[@PassionforSound]

I like that analogy!

[@gli7utubeo]

Can you please (or any of the commenters) talk about the level of sound leakage from the Caldera vs. other open headphones (such as Mezes or Focal Utopias, for instance)? Thank you.

[@PassionforSound]

The Calderas leak a bit less than most of the competition because of the internal damping system used. I'd say the Caldera and Elites are similar but the Caldera leaks a touch less. The Utopia will leak more than both because they're even more open. I hope that helps.

[@gli7utubeo]

Thanks for the detailed reply (and the very interesting review). I might just wait for the closed Caldera estimated for 2024. Best to you.

[@tomwalker7629]

With both the Caldera, Atrium, and Verite CB, along with the TT2/ M-scaler DAC, would you pair with the Enleum 23 R or the MicroZotl MZ3? Thanks Lachlan

[@PassionforSound]

I consistently favour the MZ3 for the ZMF cans. I get the feeling that Zach might favour tube amps in his tuning process because they seem to always really sing on tubes.

[@soulfulfool]

So you prefer Atrium?

[@PassionforSound]

No, I love both. Caldera is the headphone I reach for most. Atrium is wonderful for a long, relaxed listening session where I'm not looking for maximum technicality

[@soulfulfool]

@@PassionforSound If nothing better pop out in 2024 and I still be living I will buy Caldera at november glamour sale :) I dont need Atrium relaxed nature I want Caldera technical performance with right timbre

[@dmarcus1260]

Nice review. I noticed the Phonitor headphone amp in the background. Definitely looking forward to that review. Some day I hope you will have the opportunity to review the Ferrum Hypsos/Oor/Wandla stack.

[@PassionforSound]

The Phonitor is great! I need to reach out to Ferrum again and see what I can arrange.

[@therazmatazz732]

Need an entry level phone now. Something to beat the Sundara or XS.

[@PassionforSound]

They have a closed back coming that will be under $1000, but not sure if it will be XS/Sundara level pricing

[@Njinx_]

@@PassionforSound "They" as in ZMF?

[@PassionforSound]

Yes. Check out my podcast episode about ZMF headphones for more info. It's here on KZbin or via regular podcast apps (The Passion for Sound Podcast)

[@syanhc]

Hoping you’ll get hold of a Fiio FT3 and give it a listen….

[@PassionforSound]

I'm working on it! I've got the R7 here now and the FT3 and SP3 kind of make sense to test along with it :)

[@syanhc]

Wow. I’m excited. Your channel is making me spend more. I’m wanting to buy a mid fi headphone and dac/amp for the office. I’m wondering does the FT3 surpass the Hifiman XS Edition and whether the Fiio R7 surpasses the K9 pro…can’t wait to see the review…

[@PassionforSound]

I can tell you already that the K9 Pro is slightly better than the R7 when running both as a DAC, but the R7 is so much more powerful in terms of features. As for the FT3, we'll have to wait and see on that one...

[@syanhc]

@@PassionforSound You are just awesome sir. Your advice is appreciated!

[@gjtube37]

Thank you for the great and detailed review! How does the Caldera compare to the Utopia, 2020 or 2022 versions? It sounds like they both have a narrow soundstage. I have the 2020 Utopia and am thinking about the Caldera. What are the differences between the two and would I like the Caldera if I like the Utopia? Thank you!

[@PassionforSound]

I don't own the Utopias anymore, but what I can say from memory is that the Utopias offer some of the best vocals around and also more depth in the soundstage than the Caldera. Overall though, the Caldera has better total tonality from bass through treble and is the headphone I prefer of the two for that reason. If you sometimes feel like the Utopia is too bright or lacking in body/bass, I think the Caldera is a good replacement with excellent technical capabilities and better tonal balance.

[@irondad007]

The Caldera’s are definitely not narrow.

[@Angel-AbC9]

Passion , some help here i appreciated it. I have 3000 to spend , with your judgement and opinion , if you was to buy one around that price give or take which will it be ? The sound i like is very lively natural must have clean nice bass , vocals realistic and nice stage witdh doesnt have to be the widest..i must add , i have zmf verite close and hifiman arya stealth , was looking to sell both for the one thats better than thise two.

[@PassionforSound]

If you like the VC, the Caldera will be great for you. They're different headphones so it's not a direct swap, but the tonality of the Caldera has some similarities. For that money, it would be the Calderas or HE1000 SE that is go for. (I think the Meze Elites are a step too high in price IIRC)

[@Angel-AbC9]

@PassionforSound thank you so much I value your opinion because I agree with alot of your videos.. Only thing I don't like about zmf is how to switch pads , wish it was like many others just twist off twist click back on. Thnk you

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, the pad swapping takes a bit of getting used to. I think it's the cost of having solid wooden cups so it's a worthwhile inconvenience IMO. Plus, there's no little plastic tabs to break. 🙂

[@banani4000]

Hey L! Awesome review per usual. But I also like your new approach - very zeitgeisty :) Anyway, to my question(s): I've got the Calderas here with the Atriums incoming in a couple of days. They're going to go toe to toe before I make my final decision on which one to order. I really love the Calderas (with my HA-6A) and assume the Atriums will give me a different, albeit equally wonderful, flavour. I've pitted them agains each other before and thought the Calderas won me over, but that was on another system all together, and lately I've been craving more spaciousness, which I seem to remember the Atriums giving me. How would you approach such a decision? Sadly, I don't have the funds to order both, so feels like Sophies Choice in a way... Jokes aside - this is a privileged "problem" to have, but it's difficult one non the less 😕 Also, do you still slightly prefer the Calderas over Elites? Which set is your go to these days? Keep up the good work mate!

[@PassionforSound]

Wow, that's a tough question! The Atriums are definitely more spacious, but the Calderas are a little stronger in technicalities. I had to send the loaner pair of Calderas back so the Elites are my go-to planar headphone now and will likely retain that role. Synergy will play a bit part in which is ultimately best for you. I have the Atriums and Folkvangr amp and that combo is a match made in but heaven so the Caldera wouldn't get a look in on that setup. However, your experience with the HA-6A will be very different. My only advice is to spend extended time with each and make your decision based on which one you most often want to reach for. Choose with your heart, not your head. 🙂

[@banani4000]

@@PassionforSound Cheers L! Appreciate the thorough and honest reply 🙏🏾

[@BillyKueekSG]

I have the Atrium and the HD800S as my 2 “flagships” dynamics. As for Planars, I love the HFM Arya Stealth and I only intend to get a better planar. As of now, I’ve only heard the Elites and I love it but its not enough for me to pay its price considering how much more it is compared to the Arya Stealth.

[@PassionforSound]

In some ways, the Caldera might fit your collection better in terms of being different, but the Aryas and Elites are a little more alike in tonality and presentation

[@BillyKueekSG]

@@PassionforSound ahhh the next planar I’m getting must be better than everything I’ve had. I got to look at your Susvara review again. Friend just bought the LCD5 and that got me thinking too.

[@PassionforSound]

LCD-5 is lovely and Susvara are amazing, but both have tonality issues for me. It will probably depend on what you are listening to mostly.

[@BillyKueekSG]

@@PassionforSound I have high expectations cos it’ll be my last planar and highest end one so I’ll take my time to find it. My current collection covers different genres and are different sounding which is keeping me occupied. I am going to sell the entry level headphones, DACs and amps and upgrade as I come across better ones that I like. You’ve been a great help and your advice has been wonderful.

[@PassionforSound]

That's a good plan, Billy. There's lots of talk (but no confirmation) that the Susvara might be due for an update so who knows... maybe that will be the perfect headphone.

[@hdsarma]

Violectric V550 and Holo Bliss review please 🙂

[@PassionforSound]

The V550 is unlikely it seems (due to local distribution issues). I might be able to arrange the Bliss, but can't guarantee as yet...

[@mqtpqt]

That wood should be kingwood!

[@aceofspades6667]

The king wood is nice as is the coffee oak I don’t like the newer red wood

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks Matthew. I haven't seen the red wood yet, but this is gorgeous!

[@fabriziosiano7210]

I’ve been waiting to get my first Zmf and the caldera was on top. But I’m not a fan of the close to you voice imaging. Do you know if any other Zmf or other brands , beside the elite, has that deeper more pushed back vocals?

[@PassionforSound]

The Susvara and HE1000SE are both a bit further back from you, but not deep as such. I can't think of others that are particularly deep sounding

[@fatdoi003]

i'm not sure top tier HP has V tune.... or buyers prefer V sound

[@fabriziosiano7210]

It’s not really a Matter of V shaped. The frequency can be flat or neutral but the staging is further back. Example from my own experience: using the Holo Audio Dac , the singer is pushed outside of your head in front of your lobe. And with the schiit Dac , the singer is rin your head right on your lobe. So in this case some prefer the schiit in stereo set up as it bring the singer more inside the room. Where the holo keeps it behind the speaker plane. Which I like with headphones.

[@fabriziosiano7210]

Would you say your atriums have the same vocal placement as the caldera? Any difference? Sorry for insisting, I’m from Haiti and it’s hard to sample headphones.

[@PassionforSound]

I think the Atriums are a bit less intimate in vocal placement and they throw a deeper overall soundstage too.

[@MrYousif07]

Is it good for gaming ?

[@PassionforSound]

It depends on your priorities. If you're looking for FPS spatial info and footstep sounds, etc. there are probably better choices, but for an immersive, full range audio experience, they'll be brilliant!

[@MrYousif07]

@@PassionforSound so what is your recommendation for fps gaming ?

[@PassionforSound]

I'm not into FPS games these days so I'm not the best person to ask, but most people seem to swear by the HD800 or HD800S from Sennheiser

[@GadZookz]

❤️Love my Atrium and can’t wait for the Atticus.

[@johnratcliffe6438]

What is Atticus going to give you? I want to add Auteur Classic as a neutral reference. Was looking at Eikon too, but they seem to have disappeared.

[@GadZookz]

I hear it has a fun tuning but will just have to wait to try before I buy.

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, I believe Eikon has been retired. Not sure if there is a new one on the way. I'm yet to try the Atticus

[@GadZookz]

@@PassionforSound Maybe there will be a new version of that one called the Finch. 🙂

[@PassionforSound]

The Finch? What am I missing?

[@BopWalk]

Click bait title but ok

[@PassionforSound]

I've done some testing recently and it sadly is necessary to catch people's attention with these sorts of titles. I try not to ever lie in them (the Calderas really didn't amaze me on first listen), but try to make them grab attention/interest.

[@BopWalk]

​​@@PassionforSoundSame experience here and for other people as well! The Caldera tuning seemed a bit off at first but then you start noticing the amazing soundstage depth and the overall meatier presentation. We all come to really appreciate the Caldera after giving it a week. Also, this headphone is SUBLIME with dynamic sounding music like EDM or subgenres. I would pick the Caldera over the Susvaras any day of the week.

[@picklesandufos7860]

Yeah, this is the only guy that I’ve ever heard review the Caldera and say that it didn’t blow him away. To him, he just thinks it’s ok

[@PassionforSound]

I think it's a brilliant headphone - I'm just not into hyping gear 🙂

[@orrman5]

Natural but not impressive is the Susvara's game and from my short experience with the Caldera it didn't compete with the Sus but depending on your system it might be the much more logical headphones to own between the two.

[@PassionforSound]

The Susvara is amazing, but I think they are quite different. People like me who listen to a lot of blues, rock, etc. and want/need a fuller sound will be better served by the Caldera. People who enjoy a slightly leaner sound and/or listen to genres like classical, soundtracks, etc. will no doubt find the Susvara pretty impossible to beat.

[@pandapv]

the susvara is also twice the price (or a few grand more used) and requires a multi kilobuck source chain (whereas the caldera can be driven off a mojo) so it's a different ball game

[@PassionforSound]

Good point!

[@mr.dynamite2543]

15 seconds in and that basically the Susvara. ( Which I own and love).

[@PassionforSound]

It's a very different headphone than the Susvara which I owned for a long time too. Susvara is still more resolving I think, but the tonality of the Caldera is better to my ears/tastes.

[@johnratcliffe6438]

That title had me going for a moment 🤣

[@PassionforSound]

It is technically true - they aren't amazing, but they are wonderful :)

[@johnratcliffe6438]

The stock cables suck. Too short and look rubbish. I really need 2m length.

[@RogierYou]

And I thought sommelier’s fantasized a lot about fermented grape juice 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@CptMark]

ZMF Caldera is 490g minimum. Meze Elite is 420g. In comfort, every gram counts.

[@PassionforSound]

I agree that lighter is preferable, but distribution of the weight definitely helps with the Caldera and makes them equivalently comfortable on my head at least.

[@Peace_Guard]

@@PassionforSound Did you test a version with aluminum or magnesium chassis? ZMF site states that's what the weight mostly depends on (+ wood type, I guess).

[@PassionforSound]

I'm not sure which version I was sent. I don't think it's going to make sufficient difference to go from being comfortable to uncomfortable. More likely it would go from comfortable to even more comfortable if that makes sense

[@pappsa8]

MFCKN Zmfs,cant believe how they are beutiful! I wish once i can listening one of them !

[@stephendenagy3396]

No doubt the Caldera is awesome. But every time he raves that a cable makes such a dramatic improvement in sound quality…I realize that I cannot trust his reviews. Sorry, just not likely to be a real difference!

[@timothyphillips1632]

This reviewer should change his name to “Crawdad.” He will make a statement , then do a complete reversal ( backing up like a crawdad). For example he says … this is their weakness but it also makes them sound magical. Sounding magical is a weakness? I don’t get it.