The ADAM Audio H200 headphones challenge the notion that professional-grade audio equipment needs a hefty price tag. This in-depth review explores whether these sub-$150 headphones deliver on their promise of exceptional sound quality and build for mixing and mastering. We'll delve into their comfort, sound signature, and unique modular design, comparing them directly to a key competitor, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO. Discover if the H200s truly offer superior detail, resolution, and a more natural listening experience, justifying their position as a potential best-buy in the closed-back headphone market.This review examines every aspect of the ADAM Audio H200s, from their comfortable and durable construction featuring replaceable parts, to their surprisingly spacious and balanced soundstage. We'll analyze the impact of the included VST3 plugin, exploring how its EQ curves and "Externalization" tool enhance the listening experience. Ultimately, we aim to determine if the H200s provide the accuracy and comfort needed for extended professional use, offering exceptional value for both seasoned audio engineers and discerning music lovers.
Pros And Cons
- Cooler and more comfortable earpads in hot weather
- Good for editing due to mid-range emphasis
- Less comfortable headband than Atom Audio H200 in long listening sessions
- Less balanced tuning than Atom Audio H200, making it less natural for mixing
- Issues with durability of headband adjustment mechanism (though covered by warranty)
- Comfortable for long work sessions
- Modular design allows for easy repair and part replacement
- Balanced tonality
- Enjoyable to listen to
- Easy to drive from any source
- Natural, tonally balanced, detailed sound
- Surprisingly spacious for closed-back headphones
- Accurate sound across various systems and tracks
- Suitable for both professional mixing and casual listening
- Includes a free plugin with customizable EQ curves and spatialization tools
- Superior sense of detail compared to similarly priced competitors
- Ear pads might feel sticky in hot and humid environments
- Boosted sub-bass might require compensation when mixing content with low frequencies
- No balanced input
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Comfort and Design
The ADAM Audio H200 headphones are designed for extended use, boasting comfortable earcups and a headband. The earpads, while firmer with a memory foam feel, offer superb comfort. They are replaceable, offering customization options. The headband is soft and adjustable, preventing pressure points.
A unique feature is the modular design. Every component can be replaced, ensuring longevity and repairability. The dual cable entry points allow for flexible cable placement, optimizing workspace ergonomics. This thoughtful design enhances the user experience for professional applications.
Sound Quality and Performance
The H200s deliver a wonderfully balanced sound signature, ideal for both critical listening and mixing. The 40mm dynamic drivers produce a natural tonality, rich in detail and surprisingly spacious for a closed-back headphone. This balanced sound profile is crucial for accurately assessing mixes.
While generally balanced, the H200s do exhibit a slight sub-bass boost. This adds character without making the sound muddy or unrefined, but could require adjustments during mixing for accurate representation on other systems. The headphones are easily driven by various audio sources, exhibiting high sensitivity.
Comparison with Road NTH-100
The Road NTH-100 is a direct competitor, also priced around $150. While both are aimed at professionals, the H200s offer superior detail and resolution. The Road NTH-100 emphasizes mid-range, making it good for editing but potentially less natural for mixing.
The H200's comfort surpasses the Road NTH-100, particularly in extended sessions. While the Road NTH-100 features cooler earpads suitable for warmer climates, the H200's headband is more comfortable overall. The H200 provides a more balanced tuning with better sound stage representation compared to the NTH-100.
ADAM Audio H200 Software and Features
The H200 headphones come with a free VST3 plugin offering two EQ curves. The 'Pure' curve is a neutral setting, while the 'Uniform Natural Response' adds weight and richness. Users can also choose to switch both off completely.
The plugin also includes an 'Externalization' tool. This subtly adjusts the soundstage, making the sound more natural and less confined. It’s a subtle effect, but effective in improving the listening experience without being overly artificial.
Conclusion and Verdict
The ADAM Audio H200 headphones offer exceptional value at their price point. They provide a well-balanced, detailed, and spacious sound signature, suitable for both professional mixing and casual listening. The modular design, replaceable parts, and free companion software add significant value.
Compared to the Road NTH-100, the H200s boast superior detail, resolution and a more natural, balanced sound signature. While both are excellent choices, the ADAM Audio H200's overall package is undeniably superior, making them the best closed-back headphones under $200, and arguably even beyond that price point. They are highly recommended for both creators and audiophiles.