This detailed review dives into a comprehensive comparison of the HEDDPhone 2 and its upgraded counterpart, the HEDDPhone 2 GT. Both models boast high-end audiophile features, including the less common AMT drivers and HEDD Audio's proprietary VVT technology, promising an exceptional listening experience. We'll explore their similarities and differences across various aspects, from the unboxing experience and design aesthetics to the nuanced differences in sound signature and performance in gaming scenarios.This in-depth analysis will dissect the subtle yet impactful variations between the two headphones. We will examine the build quality, comfort during extended use, and the impressive detail retrieval capabilities of both models. Furthermore, a comparative analysis against other high-end headphones will contextualize their strengths and weaknesses, ultimately helping you determine which HEDDPhone best suits your individual listening preferences and needs.
Pros And Cons
- Studio-focused audio tune
- Comes with a luxurious and unique packaging with various accessories including multiple cables, a 1/4in adapter, and extra pads.
- 5-year warranty
- Detailed and precise sound reproduction, especially for subtle details.
- Good for gaming, offering precise imaging and detail retrieval.
- Comfortable for long listening sessions despite weight.
- Expensive ($1400 at time of review)
- Heavy (550g)
- Headband not quick to adjust
- Weight concentrated on earcups, creating pressure.
- V-shaped sound signature catering to a wider audience, with stronger bass and more upper mids/low treble.
- Softer, more flexible cable with satin-like finish.
- Suede earpads (as opposed to leather on the Headphone 2)
- Excellent for immersive gaming experiences due to enhanced bass and treble.
- 5-year warranty
- More expensive than Headphone 2 ($1700 at time of review)
- Requires more power to drive.
- Heavy (550g)
- Headband not quick to adjust
- Weight concentrated on earcups, creating pressure.
- Can sound brighter and less forgiving of poorly mastered tracks than the Headphone 2
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
Unboxing and Accessories
The unboxing experience for both the HEDDPhone 2 and 2 GT is surprisingly extravagant. Each headphone arrives in a large, high-quality box featuring pull-out drawers revealing a neatly organized accessory package. This includes various cables (including a balanced cable and a 1/4-inch adapter), showcasing a luxurious presentation that elevates the overall experience.
The GT model includes a slightly different cable – a softer, nylon-like material that's more flexible and smoother than the rubber-coated cable of the original HEDDPhone 2. Both include an extra set of earpads, a thoughtful addition considering the wear and tear on earpads over time.
The included accessories are more comprehensive than those found with many other headphones at this price point, further enhancing the premium feel. The thoughtful design and presentation of the packaging are clearly a focus for HEDD Audio.
Headphone Design and Build Quality
Both the HEDDPhone 2 and 2 GT share a similar design aesthetic, incorporating a carbon fiber headband for a lightweight yet durable feel. However, subtle differences exist; the GT boasts more visible carbon fiber, along with contrasting stitching on the leather earpads, creating a more striking visual appeal.
The headband features a unique adjustable strap system; one for clamp force adjustment and another for height adjustment. This ensures a customized fit, although the initial adjustment requires more effort than a quick-adjust system.
Weighing in at 550g, both headphones are not lightweight, with the weight primarily concentrated on the earcups. While comfortable for extended periods, the weight distribution might initially feel jarring to some users.
Sound Quality and Measurements
The HEDDPhone 2 and 2 GT utilize AMT (Air Motion Transformer) drivers, a less common technology in headphones. HEDD Audio's proprietary VVT (Variable Valve Timing) technology helps optimize airflow within the driver, contributing to their unique sound signature.
Measurements reveal a more V-shaped sound signature for the GT, featuring a boosted bass and treble response compared to the more neutral HEDDPhone 2. The differences, however, are subtle, and both maintain similar overall frequency response.
Subjectively, the HEDDPhone 2 offers a warmer, more relaxed sound with a darker vocal presentation and tighter bass. The 2 GT presents a brighter, more energetic sound with more forward vocals and a more pronounced bass shelf, making it ideal for bass-heavy genres.
Comparisons and Gaming Performance
Compared to other high-end headphones like the HiFiMAN Arya and Sennheiser HD 800S, the HEDDPhone 2 and 2 GT stand out with their exceptional detail retrieval and micro-detail resolution, a characteristic often associated with electrostatic headphones. The HEDDPhone 2, in particular, excels at recreating a sense of space and intimacy.
In gaming, both headphones perform admirably. The GT's more energetic sound signature enhances immersion, while the HEDDPhone 2's precise imaging and neutral presentation provides a more competitive edge, particularly in FPS games. The weight, however, might become a factor during longer gaming sessions.
The Mini Shangrila electrostatic headphones offer a similar level of detail retrieval, but require a dedicated amplifier and have a less premium build compared to the HEDDPhone. They also lack the same warmth as the HEDDPhone models.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
The HEDDPhone 2 and 2 GT are premium headphones offering excellent build quality, long-term support, and exceptional detail retrieval. The choice between them depends largely on personal preference and listening habits.
The HEDDPhone 2 offers a more neutral and forgiving sound signature, ideal for those seeking a precise and detailed listening experience across various genres. The 2 GT, with its V-shaped tuning, provides a more energetic and exciting sound, particularly well-suited to bass-heavy music.
While expensive, the HEDDPhone 2 and 2 GT are highly competitive in their price range and offer a unique listening experience. The HEDDPhone 2, with its slightly more relaxed sound and better imaging for gaming, emerges as the more versatile option for most users.