Some products transcend mere usage and become integral parts of our lives. From the first touch or listen, you realize you’re experiencing something special—something that will accompany you through many moments in life. The HEDDphone TWO promises to be precisely that: a combination of high-quality construction and sound engineering, designed to be loyal companions for many years, and perhaps even passed down from generation to generation.
Quality and Durability
The HEDDphone TWO stands out not only for its sound quality but also for its robust and high-quality construction. You can immediately sense the quality. Crafted from noble and comfortable materials, these headphones exude a solidity that inspires confidence. Every component appears meticulously thought out and executed, reflecting the manufacturer’s commitment to creating a product that combines aesthetics, functionality, and durability. The HEDDphone TWO is undoubtedly an investment that promises to stand the test of time, accompanying the music lover throughout life with consistent performance over the years.
The pride of owning these headphones was clearly a priority in the design of the HEDDphone TWO. They come in a satin-finished box that includes two drawers: one for accessories and a pair of spare pads, and another for the carrying case. The fabric-lined case not only accommodates the headphones but also has a space for the ideal cable for every occasion, ensuring that the HEDDphone TWO adapts to any need.
AMT Technology
The HEDDphone TWO utilizes AMT (Air Motion Transformer) technology, which provides extremely precise and detailed sound reproduction, though it requires proper amplification to reveal its full potential. To maximize the listening experience, I used the Exposure XM HP, which proved to be much more than just a headphone amplifier, it is also a preamplifier, DAC, and phono stage. This small British amplifier left an excellent impression during its time at MoustachesTower!
Test System
During the time I had the HEDDphone TWO, I used the MoFi StudioDeck turntable (review here) as the analog source, connected to the Exposure’s phono stage. On the digital side, I explored two solutions: one for listening to music while enjoying the album cover and lyrics on a 58-inch TV using Apple Music on Apple TV with the TV’s optical output connected to the Exposure’s converter, and another, perhaps more in line with the audiophile community, using the NAD C 658 (review here soon) as a streamer and converter. I usually complement my reviews between critical listening and more casual sessions.
It would have been interesting to directly compare the HEDDphone TWO with the RAAL Requisite CA-1A, which I recently tested, given their similar technologies and prices. To ensure objectivity in my opinions, I preferred not to rely solely on memory. The comparison was mainly made with the closed-back dynamic headphones I currently own, the Meze 99 Classics, considering the technological differences.
Listening Impressions
Starting with my evaluation of the Exposure XM HP, which was very positive, I confirmed the good impression I had of the brand’s compact components during the Lisboa Hifi’23 (report here). This amplifier proved to be extremely versatile, enhancing the sound quality of the HEDDphone TWO and becoming an excellent choice to accompany them.
The combination of the Exposure XM HP and the HEDDphone TWO revealed impressive sound details, with a clarity and precision that highlighted the headphones’ qualities. The impactful bass, channel separation, and soundstage depth created a truly immersive listening experience. The open-back design of the HEDDphone TWO contributed to a spacious soundstage, adding a new dimension to the music.
The HEDDphone TWO excels at revealing sound nuances. In “Promete, Jura (Fado Sérgio)” by Mariza, Artur Batalha’s voice and the Portuguese guitar intertwine, creating a cohesive and enveloping sound image. The voices of the fado singers are rich in texture, and the extended, smooth highs contribute to an organic presentation of the music.
The attack and detail are highly precise, bringing each instrument and voice to life. The kick drum has a powerful impact, while David Sylvian’s honeyed voice flows smoothly through Ryuichi Sakamoto’s soundscapes in “Forbidden Colors.” The HEDDphone TWO masterfully conveys the drama of Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony, where the cymbals shine without overwhelming, and Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, revealing all the emotional intensity of these works. The delicacy of the piano in Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 is equally impressive, with a quick attack and rich timbre that stands out. While the bass isn’t dominant, it’s full and robust, always present when the recording demands it, without ever imposing excessively.
The sound of the HEDDphone TWO evokes an old-school charm, resisting the current obsession with exaggerated bass. While there could be a bit more punch in the lower frequencies, the sound signature is balanced. When the bass is present in the recording, the HEDDphone TWO reveals it with precision and clarity. The interpretation of “Romeo and Juliet” by Lisa and Tamás Batiashvili proves this, with bass revealed so deliciously that it was hard to think of returning the HEDDphone TWO without first listening to Satie’s “Gymnopédies” one more time.
Drawbacks?
These headphones will unearth details. They will x-ray recordings, and they won’t forgive poor quality ones. If you’re someone who appreciates the revelation of every sonic nuance, the HEDDphone TWO can provide as rich and authentic listening experience as you desire. On an important note, despite these characteristics, these headphones won’t cause fatigue during long listening sessions.
HEDDphone TWO: A Legacy of Sound and Quality
As the listening sessions progressed, it became clear that the HEDDphone TWO might be the ideal choice for those who value music with clarity, precision, and detail without the auditory fatigue that some equipment with these characteristics can cause. Their robust construction and comfort make them not just a device for listening to music, but a true lifelong companion, elevating the musical experience and promising to last, proudly, for many years. Perhaps that’s what makes them so special: the certainty that we’re investing in something that will not only accompany us over time but might also be part of the legacy we leave to the next generation.
System Used in This Review:
- Headphones: HEDDphone Two – Product page
- Headphone Amplifier/Preamp/Phono Stage/DAC: Exposure XM HP
- Streamer/Headphone Amplifier/Preamp/Phono Stage/DAC: NAD C 658
- Network Filter: iFi Silent Power LAN iPurifier
- Turntable: MoFi StudioDeck
- Headphones: Meze 99 Classics
Specifications
- Design: Open-back over-ear headphone
- Drivers: AMT with full-range VVT® technology
- Frequency Range: 10 Hz – 40 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 89 dB SPL at 1 mW
- Impedance: 41 Ω flat
- Power: Min. 200 mW, recommended ≥1000 mW
- Inputs: 3.5mm jack
- Cable: Kevlar-infused, braided
- Pads: Faux leather ear pads and head cushion
- Weight: 550g