SONY Z1R REVIEW ($2000 Closed Back... Sony's???)

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[@JoshuaValour]

The (international version) is actually $1600.... soooo much more reasonable ;)

[@dnalekaw4699]

damn, so much more reasonable, I think i'll buy two

[@4G12]

@@dnalekaw4699 😅

[@liowyingzhuo]

In my country, we are able to get it for RM5700 (1380 usd)

[@d.n.a5415]

You can buy them used [mint] for $900 USD in Korea. Very well made mellow cans~ Good bass

[@towsifshahriarshovo]

Bro, I like your headphones review. Please review "lyxpro oeh-10" open back budget headphone. (59 dollars in Amazon).

[@youdoitillwatch]

Don't worry about the treble response. Once most people are old enough to afford $2,000 for a pair of headphones they can no longer hear much above 15 kilohertz!

[@markh3088]

How bout 10K!

[@patrikiosvatemanopoulos]

LOL!

[@dap777754]

Tell me, what is it you (think you) hear above 15 kilohertz? Cause I don't know of any instruments , certainly not human voices, that can hit anywhere near that high. Professional mixing engineers in their sixties mix the music you hear. Not sure what you're boasting about?

[@youdoitillwatch]

@@dap777754 - I'm not sure what you're getting at. I wasn't boasting about anything. I'm 47 years old and know for a fact that I can no longer hear sounds anywhere near to 20 kilohertz.

[@dap777754]

@@youdoitillwatch My point is that there's really nothing to hear up that high, at least musically. You are listening to test tones, correct? So why lament the loss (of hearing at frequencies where there''s no music anyway?)

[@AlmightySarlac]

Build quality is even more impressive if you read some of the details, Aluminum alloy sliders and ear cup hangers, Titanium alloy inner headband, and ear cups made from Canadian softwood fibers manufactured using Japanese paper-making methods, and an overlaying stainless steel mesh with Chromium compound coating.

[@davidhayterrrr]

Been waiting for you to do these!! Thanks

[@WillDill94]

Keep going with theSsony reviews and review the Z7M2's next!

[@allydea]

Hey Josh. It's been a year now since this review. You've heard a lot more closed headphones since then. How would you feel about revisiting your Z1R impressions?

[@jurumal]

I’m lovin’ the return of the opening intro b-roll.

[@sevamarginlo9211]

What is the "B- roll", please?

[@jurumal]

seva marginlo the beautiful panning shots of the product

[@70mcnevin]

I think the 10k frequency side effect is a massive plus when using them as studio monitors. It delineates the V shape and resolves into clarity that other headphones dont have during mixing and mastering sessions. Once you learn the response of the phones, it becomes great for long sessions. Also, the wider Soundstage as opposed to the usual closed back headphones allows for better mixing and overall enjoyment of stereo in music mixes. These are supremely comfortable as you mentioned. And the build quality is second to none. They also look fantastic and ckme with a case that is not only classy but also almost indestructible, as should be in this price range. They left me thoroughly impressed if you can't tell. Now, the key to unlocking these for their full potential is power. I'm talking 1wpc or better so that you have enough overhead to hit that massive driver hard and not starve it for juice, thus distorting every other frequency in the process. If you have them, or want them, or are getting them, get a DAC and run them on balanced mode. They will shine like nothing you have ever heard before. This is the key to unlocking the potential of any really great headphone. But it is even more so the case with the Z1R due to the large driver. I know the 100dB sensitivity allows for driving them at low power, but it absolutely without doubt does not do them justice without high power backing up your audio signal. 100mw, 200mw, 300mw doesn't really cut it. You need something substantial. 1WPC is what you need. If you do this, you will be rewarded with heavenly bliss. Guaranteed.

[@oldgeezerstechreview4048]

Hi Josh, thanks for this interesting review. In fact, the Z1R was not much talked about after innerfidelity's devastating verdict. I am a long-term owner myself and struggled with them initially. They sounded harsh and high pitched on my questyle qp2r. Since I am connecting them to my ifi Pro in tube mode, these shine, however (still using the qp2r as source). The harshness and high pitch is gone. Soundstage is huge for a closed back, and I do like the eccentric signature for certain music a lot, and in contrary to most comments here I'd say that they match other TOTL headphones and are worth their price. But ONLY if you find the right gear to use them with.

[@songboek]

Old Geezer's Tech Review they really need time to burn in. After that they will open up super nice. I love them!

[@matthewweflen]

I don't know what Tyll was smoking that day. No matter what measurements say, there was not some sort of "harsh peak." Josh here says he didn't care about it either. Maybe it's highly dependent on the equipment chain. I run mine straight from the WM1A over the stock balanced cable. No harshness, plenty of detail and bass depth. I very lightly EQ'ed in order to bring vocals out a tad more and to tame the midbass.

[@oldgeezerstechreview4048]

@@matthewweflen the spike is real. Sony quietly changed the sound signature which is the assessments are so different.

[@buster7618]

Oooh I hear you reference the Sendy Aiva, does that mean a review is coming? Love mine :)

[@vipernecklampy8773]

What an special headphone.. Do you liked it more on tube amp or THX aaa 789?

[@rickym.5271]

For $1200-$1500, I would definitely consider these headphones for sure. All the reviews I read always say that the Z1R quality is excellent and sound very open for closed-back headphones. Some great selling points for me.

[@xentiment6581]

Seems they are 1600$ actually.

[@rickym.5271]

@@xentiment6581 interesting... Thank you for the update.

[@samueljaworski5737]

They rock and I got rid of the utopia for these

[@rickym.5271]

@@samueljaworski5737 .... Damn thats pretty serious lol

[@joedominic9848]

I'm able to locate an authorized retailer who is running a sale for many of their Sony products & with the currency exchange I could buy one for under $1100 new... except that they don't ship to the US or any other countries, just locally. Good thing for me is that I have a brother living there, so I will pay for it on my end & have them shipped the package off to him. I'm planning on buying a few different items, that's why I here & there looking up all these reviews just to make sure I'm getting what I paid for =D

[@MRFUTURETECHNOLOGYGAMING]

What you just described is a semi closed/ semi open back back soundstage neat

[@davidmthekidd]

I did like the z1R, I had them for a few months, but I had to sell them in order to fund other things.

[@yooanto9465]

*9/10 my fav. closed Hp*

[@zloklau]

They cost $1599 AUD ($1150 USD I think) brand new in some places in Australia. And I bought one lol. I like it a lot.

[@joedominic9848]

But, you're in OZ correct? Or, were you able to have it shipped to your country of choice??

[@m1ainfr4me68]

@@joedominic9848 I used a shipping proxy

[@orangedan5424]

I'm in Aussie, where can you get it at that crazy price? I'm definitely interested...

[@frodobaggins8812]

>15khz frequencies...... Perhaps you're just getting old.... Lol. Couldn't help myself. Love your channel and your evolution as a content creator.

[@allydea]

Beautiful video.

[@nissanbling]

Dat intro B-roll tho

[@russb3n]

If you think the Z1R sounds good now try it with the Feliks Euforia OTL. Bigger sound stage and it really smooooooths hot treble when needed but still has the sparkle.. Great review Josh and I was wondering when you were going to get the Z1R review. I also just picked up the Meze Empyrean last week so far sounds amazing..

[@buster7618]

Can you expand on your thoughts about the meze empyreans. I may splurge and pull the rigger on them....

[@russb3n]

@@buster7618 At first I thought the Emp were just too warm and dull, but after a week of use from many dacs Holo Spring 2, Questyle 600i, Sony HAP-Z1ES, Oppo 205 and Vinyl Technics 1200G. It plays all genre of music and even badly recorded music and make it sound good. But better recording really shine and give a organic sound. I am waiting for a Norne Audio Silver Cable for them which I was told helps the treble area makes them more dynamic and not dull. I own the Utopia's, Z1R, and now the Empyrean's and I can live with just one it will probably be the Empyrean because of it's ability to change with different ear pads. The leather help make the music more of a straight clean dept and bass at you approach, while the Alcantara ear pads will give you more sense of width and less bass but can sound completely different depending on what music genre you are listening too.

[@buster7618]

@@russb3n Thanks so much! Your report is pretty consistent with everyone else's which is encouraging.

[@smellyoldsock1553]

Going to be pairing these with the Elise come the summer. Can't wait!

[@PauZakArtist]

thanks for doing this! helped me to pick them up eventually. saw so many contraversial reviews.. but in the end, I think I found my 'holy grail' after all. this is..... it. can't belive SONY did it. spit on all the other bashing every detail analytical bs and made somehting truly sepecial. after a month of burn-in these became my everyday cups. so comfy, relaxin and wide sounding at the same time.. I'm speachless. I thought, as an audiophile, you can never settle. well, I just did. hopefully for a long term.

[@kato2395]

hi still settling fine there?

[@mikeg2491]

@@kato2395 I just bought these 3 months ago, still in love with them, the people who generally bash this headphone are people who analyze music like a wine taster versus just drinking to enjoy it. With the ZR1 you feel like you’re front row in a rock concert. When I go to a concert all the small details are drowned out by the bass and acoustics too, but that’s what gives the music energy where you can feel the sound vibrations. I’m just having fun listening.

[@kato2395]

@@mikeg2491 yeah I have an analytical headphone too so I would like to have some variation and is planning to get this one. How about the timbre? Does this headphone sound natural to you? Usually something with a bad timbre has some kind of nasally or metallic sound to them and it doesn't feel like you're listening to the music live. I've tried the Arya and I don't like it for sounding so fake, even though it provided great soundstage, imaging and full sounding.

[@kato2395]

@@mikeg2491 I also would like to know if you have any other headphone in your collection besides the Z1R.

[@mikeg2491]

@@kato2395 Had alot of low to mid-tiers for years, AKG Q701 Quincy Jones, dt990 600 ohm edition, hifiman he400, Sony wh-1000mx4, sennheiser 380 pro, audio technical sr6bt, Sony mdr-xb1000, few other random 40-50yo vintage phones I picked up at garage sales for a song. Made some money in crypto and finally decided to go big. Bought an Audeze LCD-X a year ago, the ZR1 3-4 months ago, got the Sony amp with it, and finally decided to complement it by getting a hifiman HE1000se literally this week. Out of all of those, I’d say both the ZR1 and the HE1000 are other worldly. Like comparing AM radio to CD. The LCD-X is pretty close as well. The HE1000 I would say complements the ZR1 well as two “end game” phones, the ZR1 is definitely more fun, more musical and feels more alive, but the HE1000 is more scientific and analytical, if I only kept two headphones and sold all the rest they would hold up as the perfect warm and cold phone. I can’t claim I’m like the devoted hifi guys who read graphs or numbers and understands the scientific nuances, but I’ve sampled so many different headphones over the years I can tell each one has their own unique flavor hence while I’ll still keep all my lowly ones. I imagine for the next few years I’ll be listening only to these two mostly. I’m not sure where I go from here if I was to seek out one more TOTL to form a trilogy so to speak. I’d say if I found a final complementary one it would be to get one very mids focused while I have my bassy and bright cans. I’d love an electrostatic phone to see what the hype is about but they are so expensive adding in the special amp and these break the bank as it is. Which one that would be I don’t know, I’d probably do well to save that money and invest in a tube amp to complement my solid state instead before my addiction spirals more out of control. Also some advice if you’re on the fence about price, let me say on both the ZR1 and HE1000 I bought open-box and saved hundreds of dollars, I see no reason to pay MSRP for high end stuff if you can avoid it. So many of these expensive headphones get returned barely used because people get picky about sound signatures, regret their purchases and send them back. I bought the hifiman open-box directly from their website and you’d think it were brand new, had the booklet, box and everything.

[@AaronFigFront]

Talking about V-shaped sound, campfire atlas is really good. It is sort of an iteration of the Vega. Vega and Altas are not completely the same. Although Altas is even more resolving, there is something the Vega does better subjectively. Altas does not require as much control from an amp like vega. Vega wears better.

[@roman445]

Hi Joshua, as far as I gather, the housing protectors are not made up of plastic, they are stainless steel with a chromium compound. At least a few sources (like Whathifi) claim that to be. Probably they are felt like plastic because I have those cans and I thought too they were plastic. But it seems to me they aren't.

[@christopherlai3639]

i really want these headphones but the price is insane. I would pay $1000 at most for these headphones.

[@sthr2110]

I just picked a pair up for $800. Easier to enjoy them when they don't cost $1200-$2000!

[@Xolition]

Where'd you find them for $800?

[@joedominic9848]

@@Xolition Probably W@LM@RT 😉😂

[@theinnocent_one]

I was super impressed with the first 20 seconds B-roll, then you went and put a light box in the backdrop Josh 🙄

[@sevamarginlo9211]

What is the "B- roll", please?

[@mediajunkienl]

@@sevamarginlo9211 Late to the party, but 'B roll' refers to the creative shots(like a shallow depth-of-field close up of Joshua taking headphones out of the box) in between the actual video (shots of Joshua reviewing it) to create a more interesting video.

[@sevamarginlo9211]

@@mediajunkienl No not late at all ..in fact thank you so much for explaining the whole thing..

[@judeobi242]

Best headphone till this day. Great review.

[@judeobi242]

cras blaue sennheiser hd 820 , fostex th900 ,grado gs2000 e.t.c And the best earphone is ier-Z1R.

[@ItsZim0]

Is there any difference between IER or MDR other than the form factor?

[@judeobi242]

Muhammad Hazim Mohd Jamli yes, the mdr sounds more cleaner and relaxed .

[@judeobi242]

@X X Of course the ier bang but I said the mdr sound more relaxed. You won’t understand me unit you test them both.

[@WyattOShea]

Would you still say that these are the best even now?.

[@songboek]

Please do the Sony mdr z7m2 next!

[@VJA74]

I was blown away by these when connected to BTR7! Even Sony DAPs did not seem to drive them properly.. for whatever reasons. When compared to other HPs, XC failed on clarity. MM500 was comparable but leaked sound being open back. DCA stealth performed much better but at about 3 times the price!

[@intoitreviews]

Would love opinion on the mr speakers drop version vs these... 2k is a lot...

[@MuhammadKharismawan]

The 71r can be get pretty below msrp these days, nearing 1.5-1.8k, and used 1.2 fairly

[@Leetransform25]

Have you considered checking out the Z7M2s as well? Would like to hear your opinion on those too!

[@joedominic9848]

How would you compare to other HP's that you've used previously? I'm about to buy both the Z7m2 & the Z1R... wondering if I should just get one over the other - go cheaper or ToTL??

[@kaz8297]

Idk I prefer open backs but I for some reason am aiming for this to be my highest end close headphone when I’m aiming for a 1.2k open back

[@hifix-man319]

As the owner of both, LCDX is shit compared to z1r! Z1r is not detailed but natural without the artificial effect of lcdX. Audeze lcdx is muffled and cloudy by contrast!

[@hifix-man319]

* z1r is not only detailed but also natural! True and realistic! I always feel there is a weird hole in Audeze headphone. Plus I got severe sore head thanks to its weight!

[@JL-ds5kj]

What would you recommend for a dac/amp combo? I already have this one but don't have any dac/amp yet.

[@colt2266]

How does the sound stage compare to the LCD 2c?

[@xOogieBoogie3x]

My next buy are the ATH-AD2000X. I have the 900X and they're amazing. I'm using a FiiO Q1 as a DAC/preamp, and then they're lined into a Nobsound tube amp. Great soundstage.

[@soulfulfool]

stupid wing system and overall cheap build push me away from AT

[@RR-ok4wz]

As an owner of the AD2000 myself, how would you compare the Z1R to them? I'm looking for a good closed back, and both the Z1R and AWKT are on my radar.

[@VuffyPulva]

I'd disagree with you about the mids. While they're definitely not mid forward, I wouldn't consider the mids to be recessed. I think a lot of people get the impression that mids are down in level because a good number of headphones have a rise on the upper regions, and these don't. These instead have a rise in the lower mids, giving them a thicker, fuller sound. Most headphone manufacturers don't have the balls to balance mids like that, but I think it pays off wonderfully here. You listen to a singer with a really deep voice, like Leonard Cohen or Tom Waits, and there's really nothing like these. Agreed about the build, though. There's nothing on the market built like these. Most headphones feel more premium by being heavy, but these completely flip that expectation upside down. These feel light because they're made with a good amount of titanium. I believe the cups are made from a paper composite material with a metal mesh over it. Sheepskin pads and headband, wooden box, it goes on and on: no expense was spared in materials here.

[@buster7618]

Meze Empyrean's are supposed to be extremely comfortable, well built and light. Open though of course. I personally would never buy heavy headphones and these are appealing for that reason.

[@JimmyCheng]

how do you compare this to the audeze lcd2c? I actually owned z1r before, recabling really make these sing. However, I always liked the planner low distortion kinda feel, music is super clean. With the sony, I sometimes found it a bit tiring to listen to. What do you say Joshua?

[@soulfulfool]

he never answer xD

[@k0mgn]

Is this still your favorite closed back?

[@terrybritner4037]

Just purchased these, I can't wait to receive them.

[@AilurusNOx]

You're going to be disappointed. They're one of the worst headphones Sony has ever released. If you want a Z1R, go with IER-Z1R instead. Those actually sound good.

[@theprinceofeverything1975]

I hope you love them! I really wanna know your thoughts on the sound

[@terrybritner4037]

They sound terrific. I have Fostex 900’s and these have just as wide a stage, with smoothness along with very good accuracy. Understanding that I don’t want bright headphones, bright headphones are not enjoyable long term listening.

[@theprinceofeverything1975]

@@terrybritner4037 I have the exact same taste as you! I love wide soundstage without harshness in any frequencies and also a good bass. How do you power them?

[@terrybritner4037]

@@theprinceofeverything1975 I have four different DAP’s, Sony nw-wm1z, Caylx-m, LooToo 5000mk2 and Cayin n3pro. All power the headphones fine. However I’m getting a Chord Mojo-Poly to see how that will amp my headphones adding potentially more detail. We will see wife is buying for me for this XMASS.

[@user-mv6de3sc8g]

"Too expensive to deny" This Closed ｔradition or custom always distorts the criticism of audio.

[@KillaHafiz89]

Before I make these my Endgame for closed back, I want to know how do they compare to the Focal Stellia?

[@gelmera]

how do these compare to lcd-x

[@shinyscales33]

I bet those frequencies are really, uh, finite

[@reinada7640]

I thought the police sirens at 0:21 , were outside my street.

[@jim8643]

So did I on my Denon D7200 lol sounded so real

[@justina9914]

Can barely hear them on my bose

[@InternetUser-d7s]

These or T5P 2nd gen?

[@nicholasmanning4307]

Would this be great for classical music? If so, which DAC pairing would you recommend? If not, what alternative would you recommend? Thank you.

[@mikeg2491]

Depends how you like your music, if you’re wanting to hear every lick spittle or shoe moving on the floor, no it’s not although it still has good detail, but if you want to FEEL like you’re in an orchestra hall though it really makes music come alive it has so much energy and liveliness. I think it’s a good well-rounded phone for all genres.

[@kbeau937]

00:02 Simba.

[@jimawhitaker]

Fir $2000 I was expecting to hear these are "perfect" ;-)

[@klaushaunstrupchristensen7252]

I have just reseen this, and I have now started wondering if the peaks at 3 and 10 kHz are not really resonances. Maybe they are reflections from the extraordinarily huge cavity between ear and driver, caused by the angling of the driver. At 10 kHz the wavelength size is 3,4 centimeters at 3 kHz it’s 12,75 centimeters. If these anomalies are reflections rather than resonances it would explain why they are not so easily heard. Just a thought 🤔 Greetings from Denmark

[@usen12345]

Hey Josh, you mentioned in the video that the headphone has plastic cups. I believe they are made of a steel mesh, correct?

[@marclelieveld718]

I own these and yes the mesh is metal. Oh and I love these cans so much fun listening to them!

[@someskinnydude100]

@@marclelieveld718 do you know where I can find these at a reasonable price?

[@nikstraub1598]

​@@someskinnydude100ebay

[@omergenish5224]

How are these comapre to beyerdynamic t1 v2?

[@jamieteestudio]

Would you get Sony MDR-Z1R or LCD X 2021?

[@heyguyslolGAMING]

One thing to consider between the two is the weight. The Z1R's are 385g and I think the LCD X are over 500g. I've had my Z1R's now for 2 months and I love them.

[@jarjared3522]

The LCD-X is more forward in it's sound. The Z1R is more relaxed by comparison

[@123nemsis]

hi josh , just got my 1990's two days ago but i don't know if it's a bad pair or not been having some distortion on the right ear-cup at high gain (Nfb11.28) most of the time at high bass tracks is it normal ? left side is ok haven't heard any distortion from it , and thanks

[@xentiment6581]

You might have dust in earcup/on speaker. Try gently vacuuming the thing and if it still crackles, go for a replacement, its faulty.

[@123nemsis]

@@xentiment6581 thank you very much , and yeah going for a replacement :(

[@RealSteveEyes]

do these sound better than fostex x00 ebonys?

[@scholardeville]

about fuckin time

[@brunogouveia6331]

Joshua, Hi, i live in a Country where there is no MDRZ1r available. But i need a Top Tier closed back headphone that is on par with it (MDRZ1r), and similar sound signature; So, i wonder if you could give a advise about a MDRz1r alternative?

[@mikeg2491]

Fostex TH900 is supposedly very close in style, I.e deep and rumbly bass and warm sound.

[@slsmaster274]

A very compentent headphone is the Denon 9200. Pls check it ou

[@DanGee0991]

Hey Josh just one question though , what are your thoughts of running the mdr z1r through a device like say Xperia 1III for EDC ( Everyday Carry ) ???

[@nikstraub1598]

You can, but they won't be very loud. They're best running off an amplifier :)

[@nikstraub1598]

This is coming from someone who has the Z1R and the Xperia 1 iv

[@youknowwhyyourhere531]

Reccomendation for headphone under $1500 with emphasis on bass n impact.

[@jamieteestudio]

Sony MDR-Z1R or LCD x 2021?

[@aflitiatorbinomoril9748]

@@jamieteestudio lcd x

[@mathieudjoman6359]

which one advise me you between sony Z1R and AUDEZE LCDXC ?

[@jamieteestudio]

I am more towards to LCD X because is open and sound music better for me. I heard LCDX and CX are only in 2d, not like Arya in 3D. That’s why I am here now going through this Sony MDR-Z1R that can provide that and good to listen to.

[@RX-rd4sc]

Review denon d7200? I think it competes with z1r and beats z7m2

[@sydbarret7]

Hi, I find them at 600€ but, for example, crinacle says: “Holes in the midrange. Big spike in the treble. Strangely disjointed soundstage. Decently resolving.”… what do I do? at the same price I found the lcd2 fazor 2019. two very different headphones, I know…can someone give me some advise?

[@marclelieveld718]

These are an amazing pair of headphones to my ears. Have them for over a year now. For a closed back they have a wide soundstage, good detail retrieval and a beautiful deep rumbling bass that doesn’t overshadow the midrange. They’re just a lot of fun to listen to. For €600 I would buy them in a heartbeat!

[@Sherolox]

600€ is a steal, I wouldn't hesitate if I saw it that low again

[@RX-rd4sc]

From where are you getting them for 600€?

[@janbahlinger7555]

So Perfect Travel headphones?

[@lrmcatspaw1]

Why does this remind me of the MDR-R10?

[@benhur2806]

Got one of these for 1300$ :D

[@speakersteve9586]

I just want to buy the "best sounding" headphones without having to worry about "price point". They can always make a more expensive pair of headphones but do they really sound that much better?

[@alkhalaf89]

Am at the same place as you. I found out there is no such thing. Because different headphones will have different strong point.. it is a matter of what you like and what you are using it for.. there is no a swiss-army headphone that is good at everything.

[@godtiermedic]

The HD 800s period

[@raphaelmeillat8527]

Go for it. Definitely my favorite ones among the 7 sets I own.

[@matthewweflen]

My patrons suck - they haven't sent me any Z1Rs.

[@TeleporterM11]

AKG K872 is a very good headphone.

[@jim8643]

I have the K812, really good indeed.

[@steven2640]

Is it worth 4x the cost of a Fostex TR-X00 Ebony?

[@rochili777]

No, I would rather take the X00. At that price its competing with the Sonorous XIII, D7200, TH900, Eikon, LCD-XC. I agree with how Tyll reviewed the Z1R, personally I think the LCD-2C and Aeon closed are better. There's also the new DT177X which hopefully does solve the DT1770 issues.

[@enjoshi-godrez8775]

They're quiet incomparable considering one has one of the largest soundstage found in a closed back, and the other literally has non. It really depends on what you value (not just price).

[@POVShotgun]

a little late but no fucking way. I preferred my TH-X00. Wow for wow factor, Fostex is king. But detail retrieval is shit on the TH-X00. I probably had a terrible Z1R because I was very underwhelmed.

[@owatito]

Whats the creepy sound at 7:47???

[@JoshuaValour]

Lawnmower lol.

[@smellyoldsock1553]

Some people actually need to demo the blinking things before commenting.

[@Lyander25]

Yup, measurements are useful but they don't always correlate perfectly with what people hear.

[@nikstraub1598]

Connect these to the Sony TA-ZH1ES and you'll be in heaven

[@megazuraba]

what balanced cable you using for Z1R ?

[@superprim12]

In a weird way, the bass pops...

[@lorcro2000]

Interesting to hear a review, but there is no future I can see where I blow 2 grand on a single pair of headphones. The fact that I'm kinda sorta considering paying $500 for a pair of FiiO FH7 (depending on reviews) already makes me feel like I'm in bizarro world, but 2 grand, nope, not a chance. 😝

[@Berkanann]

Wait another 1-2 years. We all have been there. :)

[@goldenstasgs]

If you don’t have money listen for Boyers

[@NiSHAN256]

The white lighting in the background is very annoying for me who watch in the dark.

[@x-ray3431]

@Spongebob Schwanzkopf shut up spongebob😜

[@smradlaveponozky1627]

cover it with your hand

[@mikhaillyapich7773]

Are this headphones still good option in 2020?

[@clickbaitpro]

Probably buy you have to try it out and decide it weather it is worth to you or not

[@ColocasiaCorm]

Joshua velour. The channel with better production than knowledge of anything

[@jackandrews7821]

$2500-3k in Canada , oof..

[@kalkydra]

Will the Sony NW-ZX507 walkman squeeze the juice out of this headphones?

[@vnrays3775]

Nope, get at least a PHA3 or higher please. Even the walkman 1Z is not capable to make this headphone shines.

[@hansc8400]

Thx 789 will be a good budget option for z1r. I haven't found a good and under 1.5k portable option. But I will try kann alpha recently.

[@matthewweflen]

I disagree. I run mine straight from the WM1A and it "shines" plenty to my ears.

[@thelastrhino2581]

Why the superwhite screen behind you during the whole video? Rest of the image is dark, then there's that bright white rectangle... once you see it, you can't unsee it.

[@x-ray3431]

Then cover that side of the screen with your hand.

[@thelastrhino2581]

@@x-ray3431 is that what you did, bless your little heart?

[@jacobcharters6614]

Anybody know a good mid range open back headphone that would go great with my Phillips 9500 and hd600s like under the $200 range?

[@antonzinn2293]

Jacob Charters Akg k712

[@enjoshi-godrez8775]

Sorry, you meant midrange in terms of price. As much as people hate them, the fidelio x2's would be the perfect complement to your hd600, having both enormous bass and soundstage. Certainly one of the best cans for movie watching and casual gaming. Alternatively, you may want to go for a planar.

[@jacobcharters6614]

@@enjoshi-godrez8775 thanks for th reply ill consider getting those!

[@obeliskt1024]

@@jacobcharters6614 speaking of planar, the he-4xx is a good candidate to add up to your lineup. I have one, it's a good introduction to the planar sound and I like it's v-shape sound sig. Don't expect head rumbling bass when compared to a dynamic driver, but the bass on these planar is crisp and punchy enough. it's not as intimate as the hd600's but it makes up for it's soundstage and good imaging. There is a tiny bit of sibilance to it but that is dependent on the track.

[@jacobcharters6614]

@@obeliskt1024 thanks for the Reply and recommendation ill definitely look into that headphone!

[@M4CARBINE556]

How does it do at blocking out outside noise? I have small kids and need to block out the noise while working.

[@chunkylover5367]

Pretty great. It's not the most closed back of all closed back headphones, but it definitely seals. It's super comfortable too.

[@xtrll]

got them for 950$ from amazon...

[@RX-rd4sc]

Brand new?

[@abhishekkeraliya8623]

Thanks !! Can you please review LCD XC or compare them with MDR Z1R. I am looking for a premium closed back and really confused which one to go for.

[@xphantomx4638]

I own the FOSTEX TH900 and trust me I've done so much research about what's "the best closed-back headphone" and I can confidently say that it's the BEST in my personal opinion and preference. I use it with an iFi Micro iDSD Black Label DAC/AMP with the iPurifier 2 and it sounds absolutely incredible !!

[@abhishekkeraliya8623]

@@xphantomx4638 Thanks !! I have fostex TH600 and I like the sound signature. Do you think its worth upgrading to TH900 ?

[@xphantomx4638]

@@abhishekkeraliya8623 I haven't heard the TH600 to be honest but I would say it's definitely 100% worth it !! especially if you can sell your TH600 to fund the upgrade... You can get the TH900mk1 BRAND NEW for $999 which I think is worth every single penny... compared to the overpriced competition... now when it comes to TH600 vs TH900... The TH900 is just Legendary... it's MORE in every way compared to the TH600 capabilities... especially in bass , soundstage , transparency and clarity , almost everything... oh and by the way the BASS on the TH900 is the best bass I have ever heard ever !! it's INSANE.

[@abhishekkeraliya8623]

@@xphantomx4638 Thanks !!

[@zahitemremetin606]

@@xphantomx4638 Do you have mark 1 or 2?

[@bonkiru9818]

2k usd for a v-shaped headphone? here I thought on that price point everything has to sound absolutely neutral/flat

[@buster7618]

Why would you expect every expensive headphone to be neutral or flat? lol. Sounds boring.

[@bonkiru9818]

@@buster7618 I'm just generalizing maybe. I have a wide array of headphones myself and I probably won't call them neutral (dark to warm probably). It's just, people (especially reviewers) here and there pushing "this is how a headphone should like!" "this is what neutral should be!" maybe influenced my judgement a little. I apologize.

[@F40LM]

Are they sweat-proof?

[@chunkylover5367]

Sheep skin is sweat resistant, but should be periodically wiped down. It's not synthetic, but way more comfortable than that crap. Sheep skin (leathers in general) need to be taken care of with special cleaners and treatment.

[@F40LM]

CENTER311 Thanks for your reply browie!

[@anandhua.b4589]

They are only 1500$ here

[@4G12]

"Only"...

[@JoshuaValour]

What a steal!

[@x-ray3431]

@Spongebob Schwanzkopf shut up spongebob😜

[@halimj7]

Bismillah Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I really wanted to like these headphones but with the exception of the looks and build I couldn’t find anything to sway me. The was simply ordinary to me and boring. Bass was highly overrated - there are so many other headphones with better bass in quantity and quality; for instance the lcd 2c and xc, Beyerdynamics T5p and any of the latest Denons blow it out of the water. Uppers mids seemed grainy to me when pushed and highs were ok. I don’t get it at all.

[@bernamej]

Totally agree. I much much prefer the Denon 7200 that completely destroys the Z1r in all areas except maybe soundstage.

[@halimj7]

bernamej I agree - soundstage is decent on the z1r.

[@rochili777]

AUD $1600 and with occasional 20% disc on eBay = USD $1020. Still would rather buy Elegia/Aeon/LCD-2 Closed or whatever with that kind of money. Z1R is almost HD820 and LCD-XC level of bad/weird. Based on reviews the Atticus probably smoked it if you prefer V-shape

[@jim8643]

I cam to the conclusion that its better to own them yourself and not go in biased by other reviews

[@vnrays3775]

I'm not sure, Sony definitely doesn't take the "normal" approach to "high-end" headphones like other brands, but from my test with the Z1R running Balance of a portable PHA3 amp vs the HD820 and their signature something 820 amp, I'm going Z1R all day long. It's just a weird, yet magical sync between the Sony products, I'm telling ya.

[@TeleporterM11]

Things above a high and low frequency fatigue the ear

[@DonPrimitivo263]

I bought this headphones befor 4 month in outlet for 700chf in switzerland for gaming, plays so good with 150chf creative soundblaster g6 lol🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@Dinrog]

Was füres outlet? Hammer priis!

[@DonPrimitivo263]

@@Dinrog media markt, ohne witz😄😄 wollte mir n lg oled cx anschauen und dann lag der da für -50% zwischen reduzierten ventilatoren und kaffeemaschinen heute nach der arbeit hole ich mir den ifi micro idsd signature hoffe spielen guten zusammen.

[@Dinrog]

@@DonPrimitivo263 wow! Nice.. lag da noch einer? 😂 Black Label is super 👌

[@DonPrimitivo263]

@@Dinrog leider nicht😄😄

[@xstx8859]

Why not buy hd800s instead?

[@onenonlymee1278]

I have HD800, HD800s, T1, T5p both gens of each, elex and elear, these sound the best. And build quality not match. These headphones were built to be legendary- only time will tell- perhaps when sony stop making them people won’t stop raving about them! And JOSH - it’s Fibonacci grille- and These are made in Japan. When you combine with its brother amp and sister DAP- WM1a/z with the balances 4.4mm cable. Not found another set up that beats it! But this is all personal and subjective of course. Mrs will say it doesn’t sound 20 timed better than a £100 Headphone- and she is right it doesn’t- each to their own.

[@smellyoldsock1553]

Why? They're totally different types of headphones with different sound signatures... Why do people ask this?!

[@TimeGrowing]

why no sony amp they should be together for true sony sound

[@judeobi242]

TimeGrowing No Need , I use my at work everyday with my wm1a.

[@TimeGrowing]

@@judeobi242 well that's good, but he is not even using that. He is not using hi-res DAC/AMP which that kill the headphone.

[@judeobi242]

TimeGrowing u right.

[@TimeGrowing]

@@judeobi242 thanks

[@abiromu]

It's a bit overpriced. I would rather buy the Fostex TH900 over this.

[@kijinseija727]

Why not just k240df

[@kijinseija727]

Why not k240df

[@abiromu]

Because it is not nearly as nice as headphones in this range.

[@OwlStudio73]

Abir Chaudhuri I traded the TH900mkii after 3 days..the piercing treble kills all listening pleasures unless that’s the what’s your after...these is full and very musical..just sit back and enjoy the music

[@festeplatte4225]

Is this true test or just paid advertising?

[@keithsmith6609]

The stock cable holds these 'phones back alot, even if you go the Sony Kimber route. I use Norne Audio Draug Silver and it absolutely transforms them, the soundstage is massive now, 4ft either side of your head instead of sounding like it's playing down a tube. Love mine 🎧👍

[@avatarion]

Cables don't do anything unless they are literally defective and conduct electricity poorly.

[@jackcolo1601]

This or Sennheiser HD820?

[@fatdoi003]

HD820 by country mile

[@universeman657]

jack colo z1rs are more laid back, while the 820s are more bright. The 820s sound worse than the (open) 800s at a higher price. The z1rs are pretty much the best headphone for their specific sound signature in my opinion. I prefer the z1r, but it’s a matter of preference.

[@jackcolo1601]

@@fatdoi003 Thanks

[@jackcolo1601]

@@universeman657 Thankyou very much.