this post was submitted on 23 Nov 2023
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Headphones
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Fostex TH900 (Mk I and II, they’re the same, but Mk II has a detachable cable) are so far the best I’ve found and one of the two pairs along the TH909 that has scratched the bass itch. Yes, they’re pretty up there in price if you buy retail, but you can get them either used (specifically the Mk I) for about $600 or on a sale (now is the time if that’s the case). The lower tier models weren’t it, so you can’t really save by buying a cheaper Fostex. No idea about the most recent release though, haven’t had a chance to listen to it yet.
How are the TH909s compared to the TH900 MKII? Any benefits or detriments from being an open back?
They’re different. Much wider soundstage and better imaging, more natural, less harsh of a V, more balanced overall. The best way I can describe the sound signature is “larger than life”. It’s definitely the sound that will make an unprepared person go “Holy shit!” when listening to it for the first time. The 900 excites you with the bass and gives you a brainquake with that impact, the 909 excites you with the whole range and gives you goosebumps because you never thought your favorite track could sound that great. However, due to the open-back nature, some of the bass impact is lost — only the impact, not its quantity or quality, or depth for that matter, it’s still very articulated and precise with no mud whatsoever. It sounds amazing. Granted, there will be some sound bleed, you’ll definitely hear it if someone’s listening to it next to you — but if you’re like me (and I have a smaller head) the 900 will bleed a lot, too.
The t50rp have amazing bass when modded. I have maybe $20 in materials for the mods, and another $50 in earpads. They make a significant difference in how they sound. With the right earpads and porting, the bass extends low and is quite impactful.
Unfortunately, I haven’t had a chance to listen to them modded, but I do know that quite a few of current basshead recs are just officially modded Fostex models, with the T50RP being a rather popular choice. Would be an interesting experience for sure! Unfortunately, not many people have the desire and/or skill to mod an already pricey headphone, but from what I’ve heard, Fostex are pretty user-friendly in that regard.
My TH900 also has original TH610 pads on it, and sounds much more to my liking like that.
The t50rp was a steal before it became popular. I picked up my pair of mkii for $45. All in, ive spent less on them then the cost of a new pair of mkiii. The price to performance is still there, but not what it used to be. At $250ish you got a lot of options that are very good that dont require any modding. It was never an easy recommendation, but the higher price makes it even harder.