I DID NOT expect this from these headphones! Sony MDR-Z1R

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  • Опубліковано 15 чер 2024
  • Buy Sony MDR-Z1R: US - amzn.to/4dy4szZ, AU - amzn.to/3yc52TW, UK - amzn.to/44GIOWf
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    A review of the Sony MDR-Z1R closed back headphones including frequency response measurements and comparison with the Meze Liric 2.
    My top recommended HEADPHONES (prices in USD)
    HarmonicDyne Athena - $179 - bit.ly/3QvQdlq
    Moondrop Para - $299 - bit.ly/3QvQdlq
    Sivga SV023 - $449 - amzn.to/3UKXsZ5
    Meze 109 Pro - $799 - amzn.to/3y6l6qi
    Sony MDR-Z1R - $1,800 - amzn.to/4dy4szZ
    ZMF Atrium - $2,499 - www.zmfheadphones.com/
    Meze Elite - $4,000 - bit.ly/3UMIDWb
    Focal Utopia (2022) - $4,999 - amzn.to/44xEHvx
    My top recommended IEMS (prices in USD)
    KZ ESX - $30 - amzn.to/4bpMyxC
    Tangzu FUDU - $89 - amzn.to/3UvOrlk
    Simgot EM6L - $129 - amzn.to/4a3SLy1
    Thieaudio Elixir - $209 - amzn.to/3ULd9zr
    7Hz Timeless - $220 - amzn.to/3QslVA8
    Yanyin Canon II - $379 - bit.ly/YanCanII
    Xenns Mangird Top - $530 - bit.ly/XENNSTopLin
    Sennheiser IE600 - $700 - amzn.to/44AxcUQ
    Sennheiser IE900 - $849 - amzn.to/4b66wxy
    Westone Mach 70 - $1,400 - amzn.to/3ULUK5P
    My top recommended TRANSPORTS (prices in USD)
    WiiM Pro - $168 - amzn.to/4bpTDOw
    SMSL PL200 CD - $669 - amzn.to/3Wsd0lJ
    Eversolo DMP-A6 (Master Edition) - $1,299 - amzn.to/44sBMUR
    Eversolo DMP-A8 - $1,980 - amzn.to/3QxRU1B
    My top recommended DACS (prices in USD)
    Topping E30 II - $149 - amzn.to/3JQyGkd
    Topping E50 - $199 - amzn.to/3WucWSO
    SMSL DO200 Mk2 - $469 - amzn.to/4a5Di0C
    Topping D70 Pro OCTO - $599 - amzn.to/4a8bubZ
    Geshelli J2S AK4499EX - $680 - bit.ly/J2SAKM
    Schiit Bifrost 2/64 - $799 - www.schiit.com/products/bifro...
    Gustard R26 - $1,650 - amzn.to/3QyZ0mB
    Schiit Yggdrasil - $2,299 - www.schiit.com/products/yggdr...
    Chord TT2 - $5,295 - chordelectronics.co.uk/produc...
    My top recommended HEADPHONE AMPS (prices in USD)
    Schiit Magni - $119 - www.schiit.com/products/magni...
    xDuoo MT-604 - $169 - amzn.to/4bpNYrW
    xDuoo TA-26S - $319 - amzn.to/3UJbfzx
    Geshelli A3 Pro - $499 - bit.ly/GLA3Pro
    Aune S17 Pro - $699 - amzn.to/4a75v7b
    Schiit Mjolnir - $1199 - www.schiit.com/products/mjoln...
    Burson Audio Voyager - $5,300+ - bit.ly/4a8Mwcq
    My top recommended DONGLE DACS (prices in USD)
    Moondrop Dawn Pro - $50 - amzn.to/3y2dd57
    Simgot DEW4X - $80 - amzn.to/4b68rlK
    Questyle M15i - $349 - amzn.to/4doMSyp
    My top recommended WIRELESS 'PHONES (prices in USD)
    Soundpeats Air3 Deluxe - $40 - amzn.to/3UIXQr4
    Soundpeats Air4 Pro - $79 - amzn.to/3Wyj4tj
    Edifier Neobuds Pro 2 - $130 - amzn.to/3WwMpEf
    Sennheiser Momentum 4 - $379.95 - amzn.to/3WrEqZ0
    HiFiMan Svanar Wireless - $499 - amzn.to/4amOhmx
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    00:00 Introduction
    01:39 Specifications
    03:09 Sound quality
    05:21 Sony MDR-Z1R vs Meze Liric 2
    08:22 Wrap-up
    #audiophile #audioreview #headphones

КОМЕНТАРІ • 158

  • @KipFox
    @KipFox Місяць тому +21

    Glad to see some love for the Z1R. It is my favorite closed back by far and definitely a keeper

    • @mikeg2491
      @mikeg2491 Місяць тому +2

      It was my very first TOTL headphone I ever bought so it will always have that sentimental value but it still holds up against my big boy Focal’s and Hifimans

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      100% on both counts

  • @raphaelmeillat8527
    @raphaelmeillat8527 Місяць тому +2

    Nice to see you cover some oldies but goodies! It was my first high end headphones a few years back and it remains one of my favorite pairs to this day! So comfortable for my head, ears and brain!

  • @spamcan9208
    @spamcan9208 Місяць тому +15

    Honestly if something sounded good a few years ago, it should still sound good now.

    • @sjqideez6626
      @sjqideez6626 29 днів тому +1

      Based

    • @martyn_g
      @martyn_g 29 днів тому +3

      People tend to get all excited over something new and shiny😂

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +6

      I agree on both counts. A good sounding device is a good sounding device regardless of age. Unfortunately, we live in a world where a number of brands feel the need to produce new products on a monthly or yearly basis and it's created a culture of "new toy syndrome".

    • @Josecunyat
      @Josecunyat 28 днів тому

      Capitalism, growth… there is no end… how we change that?

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  27 днів тому

      It would need for a LARGE number of people to stop buying new gear just because it's new and I doubt that will happen.

  • @taidee
    @taidee Місяць тому +3

    I love the mood you were in when you created this video, thank you for upping up your game Lachlan. For people like me with big screen and higher res, 1080p videos always feel like yesterday. That headphone sounds like something I need 🤣.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +1

      It's a magnificent headphone - you won't be disappointed.
      This video does mark a permanent change in the channel so all future content will be 4k and will be presented and produced more like this. I hope you continue to enjoy the output. 🙂🙂

  • @thelastrhino2581
    @thelastrhino2581 Місяць тому +3

    Great review. You got the sound quality section so right. Exciting is the word.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +1

      Glad you liked it and thanks for the confirmation. It's always good to hear if I'm conveying things effectively 🙂

  • @rickym.5271
    @rickym.5271 29 днів тому +1

    I owned my pair for about 4 to 5 years. Its like listening to speakers with the frequency response of headphones. No shortage of bass that's for sure. Very comfortable for long listening sessions. A must for music lovers.

  • @mrjohnsuen
    @mrjohnsuen Місяць тому +3

    I have the MDR-Z1R for quite a few years now and yes I agree with your observations, the headphone is quite an unique closed back and for me this is a keep.

  • @lazyreuvin
    @lazyreuvin 29 днів тому +1

    Best Z1R review I have ever seen. What a fantastic update and comparison for 2024. It just shows if you have invested in the right audio gear, your set up can and will last your for years depsite more modern offerings coming out what seems like every other week.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      So glad you liked it! I completely agree about the quality investment lasting for the long term. 🙂

  • @dynamic-audio
    @dynamic-audio 17 днів тому +1

    I've been using the mdr z1r for about 2 years now. I have compared it against several closed backs including the focal stellia.
    I think the z1r is a pretty special headset. And although its technical specifications indicate that it is easy to amplify, such a large driver is prone to several normal resonant modes. That is why since it arrived I wanted to test it delicately with different amplification modes. Listening to it on a source like a fiio m17, hugo 2, didn't give me a result that impressed me. However, if you put it at medium gain on a Burson Soloist 3xp or a 3x GT, I find that the dynamic range increases quite a bit, and the bass feels more controlled and less boomy, making it simply the best closed back I have ever had in my collection. . I am convinced that if it is not correctly amplified, the detail it can deliver and cleanliness is only ok, but if you amplify it a little more it becomes the same level as a focal clear and even superior in many aspects.
    greetings

    • @michaellazaar1838
      @michaellazaar1838 16 днів тому

      What other closed backs did you compare the Sony against? I am very interested in this phone. I was seriously considering the ZMF Atrium closed although I might just buy this instead.

    • @dynamic-audio
      @dynamic-audio 16 днів тому +1

      @@michaellazaar1838 OMG, a lot of. I can not remember all of the, but i have a list with almost 120 headphones ranked in my channel.
      mmmmm ok. Let me remember some of the: Hifiman Audivina, Focal Radiance, Focal Stellia, Audeze LCD-XC, HE-r9, Fostex th610, thx00, Aeon closed,... i dont remember more. From ZMF, nothing.
      Each one has its own personallity. Best soundsatge audivina, best overall z1r and lcd-xc. Easy amplification and better treble focal stelia.. etc

  • @stephenstover7494
    @stephenstover7494 20 днів тому

    Just found your channel, loving how objective you are!

  • @TheVoiceOfResin3451
    @TheVoiceOfResin3451 29 днів тому

    I had my eyes on these as my first set of premium over-ear cans for a while and I just picked up a few months ago, despite being older (picked up the Sony IER-Z1R in ear phones a year prior however and you have got to check those out too if you haven't) - having nothing to compare it to, I am happy that a) other think it sounds as good across all genres as I do and b) that it still holds up! Cheers!

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +1

      I got both the IER-Z1R and MDRs at the same time on loan from Sony so the IEM review is coming soon 🙂

  • @kato2395
    @kato2395 Місяць тому +3

    FINALLY, though I no longer want to buy headphones and is already satisfied with my collection now 😂
    I have something to share too about this headphone. If you're planning to buy one, remember to buy a headband covering for this headphone because the headband is pleather and will crack overtime if exposed to sweat and oil. The earpad is supposed to be sheepskin but I saw a demo unit at Singapore with peeling earpads so I am not sure if it is real sheepskin or fake sheepskin. I don't think real leather should peel like that. The earpad is not that worrying though because it is replaceable, unlike the headband.
    It might be old but I think good headphone will be stay good for a very long time, this is why I don't mind spending a lot on a good pair of headphone!

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +1

      Thanks for the info. The pair I have here are a Sony demo pair that seem quite well used and they're still in excellent condition on the leather so perhaps they solved that

  • @gdemirjian
    @gdemirjian 29 днів тому

    I've had my Z1R for almost one year now and love them for all the reasons your mention. I recently picked up a pair of, Focal Radiance for Bentley and they are extremely similar in premium build, and sound signature. I call them, Batman and Robin.

  • @SiliDuffa
    @SiliDuffa 29 днів тому +1

    Yay! New format. Solid step forward. Keep it up! 🍺😎👍
    One minor thing, tad too close for me. Old perspective + this format would be mint.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      Yeah, I was having an issue with the camera. It has a sneaky setting that crops in on 4k, but I've solved that now and the field of view will be just right (I think) from the end of May onwards. There's a couple of videos before that so sorry in advance!
      Thanks for letting me know that you liked the new approach. I'm trying to inject some more fun and personality while maintaining the same quality of information.

  • @ElvenSpellmaker
    @ElvenSpellmaker Місяць тому +2

    I absolutely love this headphone. I actually prefer it to some Open Backs like the HD800s, it's just got a great amount of detail and the bass is amazing and EQs well paired with the Chord Mojo 2.
    For example on The 2nd Law album by Muse, on the track Follow Me @ 1:51 you think oh this is deep bass, and then it just goes one step further and hits deep and hard @ 1:54 like I've never heard before.
    There's a slight peak in the treble though which gives rise to some sibilance on S sometimes.
    These have replaced my Beyerdynamic DT177X GO which are an amazing headphone but nothing compared to these. The bass sometimes would clip, I've basically never encountered this on my bass boosted Z1Rs.

  • @asplmn
    @asplmn 15 днів тому +1

    Love the Z1R. Will you be reviewing the Caldera Closed in the near future?

  • @pointlessdemon
    @pointlessdemon 29 днів тому

    Awesome review! I'd also love to hear your opinion on the Sony MDR-Z7M2!

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  28 днів тому +1

      I'll see if I can get a loaner pair when I send these back

    • @pointlessdemon
      @pointlessdemon 28 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound That would be epic! Thanks for the reply, have an awesome weekend!

  • @carminedesanto6746
    @carminedesanto6746 Місяць тому

    4:30 GM from Toronto.
    Brain 🧠 burn 🔥 is a thing ….
    As a user of LCDX -21 …yup you’ll adjust because it does something that you’re comfortable and enjoying…”everything has a coloration “..absolutely true.
    Have a great weekend ☕️

  • @MAELOB
    @MAELOB 27 днів тому

    I owned this headphones twice in the last few years, it was very divisive when it first came out, some people like them others don't, I just love the bass and comfort on this headphones. some people don't like the treble peak but i didn't have any issues. You can probably find a great deal on used market. I sold them because if anything goes wrong with the headphones i was not confident on Sony's servicing. I moved on to ZMf knowing they will take care of me in fixing any issues in the future.

  • @Dovndyr13
    @Dovndyr13 29 днів тому

    Only been in the headphone hobby for 3 years and just bought the Z1R a few weeks ago. Its sound profile to my liking outperforme the Focal Radiance - the best closed back to my ears by Focal
    And yes I guess its vintage, since no SONY website has the Z1R in Europe (so it might be out of production). Maybe because SONY bought Audeze last year. Still I dont think the high end market has developed so much the last 5 years. HiFiMan Susvara, the HE1000 series, Sennheiser HE1 and many other still count as some of the worlds best not being the youngest

  • @joetori8356
    @joetori8356 29 днів тому

    Great review, as always! Pithy and informative.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +1

      I'm so glad you liked it! I'm adjusting the approach to reviews slightly, but hopefully maintaining the quality of the information in a more engaging packaging. 🙂

  • @henryt9731
    @henryt9731 29 днів тому +1

    for me the sony house sound never fails

  • @Armbrust210
    @Armbrust210 Місяць тому +4

    I think it's funny how Lachlan considers these almost vintage even though they've released just a year before the Susvara. But i do also somewhat get that feeling from them, just because they haven't been relevant since... ever. But they do have a certain fanbase that really loves them. And thats often an indicator for a great headphone. Now Sony just needs to get back into the Audiophile market. Maybe they'll leave that to Audeze tho. Will be interesting to see

    • @chungang7037
      @chungang7037 Місяць тому +3

      not relevant ever? 👀

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      We live in a world where there's a new model every 6 months (unfortunately) so headphones like these and Susvara are very rare. The Susvara gets discussed really regularly and has remained relevant as a result, but these don't and I think they should.

    • @mikeg2491
      @mikeg2491 29 днів тому

      I’d argue it’s the last of a great line of headphones that didn’t try to imitate everyone else going for a typical neutral-bright sound signature. Variety is the spice of life.

    • @chungang7037
      @chungang7037 29 днів тому

      @@mikeg2491 Interesting point! They still exist, just harder to find. A lot of sivga and sendy headphones are accused of not following the BrightTrain as I like to call it. I demoed the Sendy Peacock right beside the Sony Z1R and I probably would have gotten the Z1R but it was almost 1000USD more. I think the only thing that hasn't aged well is the price.☺

  • @siruspan
    @siruspan 29 днів тому +1

    I've had the MDR-Z1R for like 2 years. I liked them so much for the premium feeling and the midrange to die for. Great for a closed back. Actually i liked them so much that I bought IER-Z1R. Unfrortunately that was the end for the MDR's as the IER turned out to be better in almost every aspect. The midrange is still better on the MDR's however when it comes to other aspect there is just no comparison.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  28 днів тому +2

      I've got the IER-Z1R coming up for review very soon actually 🙂

  • @reznov3D
    @reznov3D Місяць тому

    I tried it and loved it, except for the treble

  • @MuhammadKharismawan
    @MuhammadKharismawan 22 дні тому +1

    It's hard to make great sounding closed back headphones, the flagship of many brands being Open back shows that.
    The Z1R sound great while not trying to sound like an open back, it has all the characteristics of closed back headphones, while being very fun sounding.

  • @trevorharrison29
    @trevorharrison29 29 днів тому

    Addicted to Audio used to be just the single headphones shop out in Kew. They regularly had the Z1R on sale for A$1699. Now they are a chain with shops in capital cities and the sales are nowhere as good as they used to be. Btw, I find the Z1R comfortable for long listening sessions.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  28 днів тому

      I personally prefer to buy from elsewhere such as minidisc.com.au (not sponsored)

  • @davestevens4193
    @davestevens4193 29 днів тому

    My AKG K-340 hybrid electrostatic/dynamic cans from the 80's were great when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Nice review.

  • @sjqideez6626
    @sjqideez6626 29 днів тому

    Thanks for this, I prefer your older style of videos.
    Also you think this is a old headphone?! I use a 30 year old Stax, on a warm setup it’s so good

    • @chungang7037
      @chungang7037 29 днів тому

      can those still be bought?

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      What do you prefer about the older style videos?

    • @sjqideez6626
      @sjqideez6626 25 днів тому

      @@chungang7037 yep, only used/pre-owned

    • @sjqideez6626
      @sjqideez6626 25 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound thank you for asking. With all due respect, your older videos were more focused & professional. Your new style of videos with mini memes/gifs added in, you do lose some of those qualities you brought.
      Your new videos do come across as less serious, it’s also best to put the product name in your title.
      No offence intended at all, you are 1 of my favourite reviewers.
      I hope you don’t mind this constructive feedback, all the best.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  24 дні тому +1

      Thanks for the info. I'll take the feedback onboard, but also need to be led by the analytics which all suggest that the new approach is more engaging and enjoyable for people, but I will still include the same level of research and detail in my videos no matter which direction I take with production. 🙂

  • @SAURAV2k3
    @SAURAV2k3 29 днів тому

    Wow didn’t expect review of Z1R…I have mine since 2016 December. I was one of early buyer in US with serial number below 200

  • @invisiblekid99
    @invisiblekid99 Місяць тому +1

    I am interested in these. Have been for a while. But they are a marmite headphone. Seen people love them and others throwing them in the bin more or less.
    At the price, there is no shortage of competition.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      I had been slow to try and review them for the same reason. I now regret that decision and wish I'd tried them long ago. I know that we all hear a little differently, but I don't get why anyone hates these.

  • @RX-rd4sc
    @RX-rd4sc Місяць тому

    Nice review
    These are one of the best closed backs
    Will you also prefer them over zmf verite closed and atrium closed?

    • @michaellazaar1838
      @michaellazaar1838 29 днів тому +1

      It annoys me to no end when the obvious is never addressed. My first question was as exactly as yours, in any case I found his opening remarks disingenuous. Driver tech has not exactly radically changed as he postulates in the last 8 years. Sure things have changed although most of this in build quality and cup design, driver tech not so much. The only real advancement will come with the new solid state drivers now slowly seeing the light of day.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +2

      @RX-rd4sc I like both of the ZMFs, but I do prefer the Z1R by a decent margin.

    • @RX-rd4sc
      @RX-rd4sc 29 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound thanks, my next purchase is z1r

    • @RX-rd4sc
      @RX-rd4sc 29 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound next please review denon d7200 >2022 model

    • @raymondwebby2441
      @raymondwebby2441 День тому

      @@RX-rd4scsame here

  • @JMAudioEditions
    @JMAudioEditions 27 днів тому

    XTC^2.5 needs to be reviewed soon!

  • @vipernecklampy8773
    @vipernecklampy8773 28 днів тому +1

    Yes and all, but how it does it compared to the other closed-back wooden non-short than amazing, the tribute of the other "legendary" status wise-wine and "mythical" Sony MDR-R10.
    Yes i mean the tribute, HiFiMAN HE-R10D, currently playing on my head by few days and it's amazing sounding to me, refined at short.
    Would be lovely to make it clear to the world, since, one now costs 400$€ with wireless module and other can be purchased only used at about 1000$€
    One is wooden with enormous cups, the other got, well it got huge 70mm drivers!

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  27 днів тому +1

      I haven't tried the R10D, but would love to. The R9 was so-so, but the R10D is obviously a different beast and would be fun to try.

    • @vipernecklampy8773
      @vipernecklampy8773 27 днів тому

      ​@@PassionforSoundYes It Is, i have both. A lot more refined, quick for a Dynamic,, smooth (reminds me of HE1000 Stealth), and i let you Discover the rest. In my esperience it's great, and now the Wired version Is only at Just about 279$, a bargain!

  • @sig4974
    @sig4974 Місяць тому

    Have you tried IER-Z1R kinda the same tbh...my fav IEM 👍

    • @ReverendDr.Thomas
      @ReverendDr.Thomas Місяць тому +3

      Too big for me. 🙋

    • @sig4974
      @sig4974 Місяць тому +1

      @@ReverendDr.Thomas Aye you needed to be blessed ear wise…probably my most comfortable set 😃

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +1

      It's coming up in the schedule soon too. Sony lent me both at the same time.

  • @MeteoraEra
    @MeteoraEra 14 днів тому

    The best closed back headphone you've tried? Better than Verite closed? Wow,
    Btw Love the new format 👏

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  14 днів тому +2

      Yep. I love these!
      Glad you like the new format. It will evolve a little as I find "my voice" more in this style, but this is the new approach I intend to pursue. 🙂🙂

    • @raymondwebby2441
      @raymondwebby2441 День тому

      @@PassionforSoundwow that’s very high praise, if you don’t mind me asking, how does it compare to ZMF atrium closed?

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  21 годину тому +1

      The Atrium Closed is a more coloured sounding headphone. It's great, but it depends on what you're after. I didn't have both side-by-side to compare so I can't give you detailed notes on their similarities and differences.

  • @samhor33
    @samhor33 29 днів тому

    The Z1R have great potential, it scales really well with better gears.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +1

      I agree. They are worthy of a properly high end source chain, but also won't punish you for a more basic source.

  • @clan_biblioteke
    @clan_biblioteke 29 днів тому

    Hi, what amplifiers up to 500-600 US dollars do you recommend? I have a Topping A30 pro and a Topping L50, and I would like to upgrade. For the money, what is significantly better than these two amplifiers that I already have? Thanks

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  28 днів тому

      Geshelli Labs A3 Pro is the only choice for me in that range. The Singxer SA-1 is nice, but the Geshelli is comfortably better IMO.
      ua-cam.com/video/qGyLcxGPZPo/v-deo.htmlsi=_EU7HBQn6Nu3WMY4

    • @clan_biblioteke
      @clan_biblioteke 28 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound It is difficult to buy American products in Europe, and ordering is very expensive due to transportation. I am left with Chinese, German and British. Question: Topping A90d or Singxer Sa-1, which do you think is better?Thanks

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  28 днів тому

      I'd take the SA-1 myself, but if you want a crisper, slightly brighter sound at the expense of a little soundstage depth, the A90D is also nice.

  • @alherch
    @alherch Місяць тому

    For someone who is new to the hifi audio world, $1800 headphones better feel premium and utilize materials that justify the cost. The box to the screws, etc. all contribute to that perception. To me that shows the engineers made conscious choices to convey to the end user we took our time on the small details, wait until you listen to these. At the same time, the price point provides a larger budget for these details. The true gems are the headphones or anything for that matter are the products you find that surprise you at the given price point.

  • @james_tiberius_kirk73
    @james_tiberius_kirk73 Місяць тому

    I still have my pair of these and they're my daily drivers until I buy some Attrium Closed in August. I'll never part with them PFS!

    • @thelastrhino2581
      @thelastrhino2581 Місяць тому

      Don't do it. Z1R > AC any day.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +2

      I love the Atrium Closed as well, but I think the Z1R is better...

    • @james_tiberius_kirk73
      @james_tiberius_kirk73 29 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound That's quite an endorsement!

    • @james_tiberius_kirk73
      @james_tiberius_kirk73 29 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound PFS can I ask that you lend some comment around your statement that the MDR-Z1R sound better than the ZMF Atrium Closed please? I don't want to drop over $4000:00AUD on Atrium Closed if they're actually going to be worse than the MDR-Z1R's that I have. Perhaps *worse* is the wrong word, let's just say not as good.
      Further, *if* I were to buy a ZMF Headphone, which ones *would* you suggest are better overall than the MDR-Z1R's? As an FYI, I do like prominent sub-bass and mid-bass and not a strident Treble. I like a darker sounding Headphone too. Your opinion really matters to me as you're one of the few people I listen to on the subject. Thank-you Sir.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      I think it's important to remove best and worst from the conversation because it's all personal. I prefer the Z1R, but the ZMFs will suit some other people more.
      If you like a bit more sense of bass, the VC offers more mid-bass punch. The Atrium Closed offers less mid bass punch but a bit more sub bass presence. I think both are better for those looking for a more dynamic and punchy sound as the Z1Rs are actually fairly neutral in comparison (even though they have excellent bass presence)

  • @techmed-rainer
    @techmed-rainer 29 днів тому

    Danke!

  • @PeterHas
    @PeterHas Місяць тому +1

    I've only listened to the MDR-Z1R once, but was also pleasantly surprised by how benign and pleasant they were, without any clear flaws jumping out at me. I have since looked seriously at buying a pair, but I can't make myself do it because of their age. I keep waiting on Sony to release a MK II version like they did with the Z7. With the MDR-Z1R I expected the treble peak to stand out like Beyerdynamic headphones, but it didn't at all. I've since read that you can smooth out the treble by changing the cable because the stock cable uses silver plated copper. Silver plated copper always hardens the sound a bit compared to just regular copper. Silver plated copper also increases the sense of clarity, adding more firmness and contrast, like changing gamma on a display. But it also highlights peaks more, making them edgier and more painful. This is why the HD 800 also benefits from changing cable, because it also uses silver plated copper in all its stock cables. Basically, for owners of the Z1R it's worth looking at after market cables because many owners say it can meaningfully improve their sound.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +1

      That makes a lot of sense about the cable. I'm almost never a fan of silver plated cables for the exact reasons you described.

  • @tielur-pu8od
    @tielur-pu8od 20 днів тому

    wait for Sony to update a new closed back with Audeze or these?

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  19 днів тому +1

      I don't see any reason to not get these - they're already brilliant

    • @tielur-pu8od
      @tielur-pu8od 19 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound they were my next ones to get but then the HiFiMan Ayra Organic came out... slowly circling back to these. thanks for the review.

  • @dreamstormPL
    @dreamstormPL Місяць тому +2

    They are really great. You should try them with some really powerfull amps over 10W and high quality silver cable.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      They definitely do not need powerful amps (I have amps here from 300mW to 10W). It's the quality of the amp that is influencing the sound of these headphones or any other.

  • @chronometa
    @chronometa Місяць тому

    I'm gonna wait for a new one and have an overly expensive office headphone lol

  • @Legato-2057
    @Legato-2057 29 днів тому

    The only unboxing experience that is better than the MDR-Z1R is the Audio-Technica ATH-AWKT.

  • @matty74123
    @matty74123 29 днів тому

    Id agree with your comments on these I regret selling my pair

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      It's never too late to get a new pair 😉😉

    • @matty74123
      @matty74123 29 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound If a pair shows up on SNA classifieds I may jump on them

  • @datdudeinred
    @datdudeinred 28 днів тому

    It's sony. Ofc everything they make is almost perfect & some are already perfection like their tv's. Just goes to show you how far ahead they were even back then. Even the iem ier z1r is single greatest iem even today especially when it comes to bass & treble (despite using a dd for the later😂). & don't even let me start on their tv's, Playstation, their theatre quad home theater speakers, all the movies they make always highest quality dolby atmos tracks & perfect picture on 4k bd & even better bravia core, ofc their superb cameras. Like comon it's not even a competition anymore.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  27 днів тому +1

      I don't know if I'm quite as high on them as you, but I do agree that they make some outstanding products!

    • @datdudeinred
      @datdudeinred 27 днів тому

      @@PassionforSound yeah sorry about that i was smoking weed on my ps5 so no one will notice 😂

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  27 днів тому

      😂 all good

  • @faisalova
    @faisalova Місяць тому

    The "short form" way that you are introducing is much better. keep this frormat....

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      This will be the new style of videos moving forward (unless they flop or get bad feedback) 🙂
      I'm glad you like it!

  • @saucey99
    @saucey99 18 днів тому

    AUDEZE!!!!

  • @yarbles66
    @yarbles66 29 днів тому

    absolute classics... you couldnt really improve them; they are like a really good nightclub Soundsystem...NOTHING comes close. Planars cant do sub like this.

  • @fiftyfive5459
    @fiftyfive5459 26 днів тому

    other headphones is like F1 car. but Z1r is like ice cream truck.

  • @garymalone547
    @garymalone547 29 днів тому

    I remember the first time I saw the MDR Z7 at the Sony store. Twelve hundred Kiwi pesos and although I fell in love I thought I'll never own those. GF wholeheartedly agreed. Nevertheless I obtained that very pair and it was only supplanted by the likes of Sundara, Focal Elear and too many others before I reached the end of the line, or came to my senses.
    Build quality on the Z7 has proven them to be bulletproof. Gave them to a mate and they're still going, sans most of the leather and on the third cable.

  • @calvinyip364
    @calvinyip364 Місяць тому

    Please review aune ar5000.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      If I can get my hands on them, I definitely will.

  • @aRc11-11
    @aRc11-11 25 днів тому

    Just marry the thing why don't you?

  • @masterazlan6999
    @masterazlan6999 27 днів тому

    Ha4 this where experienced company do.. Its a sony.. Ha4.. Peace!

  • @mikylenaidoo1779
    @mikylenaidoo1779 19 днів тому

    Anyone wanting to trade their Meze elite for a Zmf Caldera? I don’t regret selling my susvara but I really do miss the Meze elite
    Contact me if anyones interested, I’m located in Sydney , Australia

  • @acheresh
    @acheresh Місяць тому +15

    why you stop listed what you are reviewing in video title, your video titles is just meangles, please, don't do this

    • @Lost1ntheSauc3
      @Lost1ntheSauc3 Місяць тому +2

      Agreed, it won't show up in search results as consistently either, which is bad for everyone involved.

    • @KipFox
      @KipFox Місяць тому +1

      Yea… there already isn’t a lot of great reviews on here for the Z1R. So at least stick the model in that title for the potentially curious.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +11

      Unfortunately, A/B testing shows that putting the name of the headphone in the title gets less views and therefore limits people discovering something they might have otherwise assumed they weren't interested in. The search results will pick up the product model from the description for searching.

    • @davdidit6
      @davdidit6 29 днів тому +2

      Algorithm commands, viewers suffer

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +7

      Except that you all still saw the video and the data says that more people overall will see the video. I don't understand how that is the viewers suffering.

  • @anarky277
    @anarky277 29 днів тому

    For the money..... the context being how much they cost, It's fair to say these are bad and disappointing.

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому

      I'm yet to hear a better closed back at any price. Do you know of one?

    • @B8THOV3N
      @B8THOV3N 29 днів тому

      Can you elaborate your reasonings? Why are they ‘bad and disappointing’ in comparison to other options?

    • @anarky277
      @anarky277 29 днів тому

      @@B8THOV3N when I tested them in a HIFI story on a Sony amp, an ES which I think has that old Japanese heritage build quality so reliable baseline, I was testing some famous cans at the time LCD2, HIFIMAN HE1000, Focal Elear something and the very expensive Sony's, about 2.5k, 1k more than any of the others, they sounded undynamic, woolly and not worth 2.5k, for that money i'd expected magic in my ears, as i said, cost is the metric that makes these bad.

    • @anarky277
      @anarky277 29 днів тому

      Actually, the HIFIMAN were over 2k but sounded the best out of the bunch.

    • @B8THOV3N
      @B8THOV3N 29 днів тому

      @@anarky277 None of the headphones in comparison you mentioned are closed back. I don’t think it’d be a fair comparison. For example with Hifiman, their closed backs are nowhere near as good as their open backs, even in the same price range. In all fairness, there weren’t many closed back options 7 years ago, esp. in the high end price range.

  • @sergiymarchenko1002
    @sergiymarchenko1002 29 днів тому

    I don't buy that hype train. Thanks anyway...

    • @PassionforSound
      @PassionforSound  29 днів тому +3

      Hardly a hype train. These are old and rarely talked about.

  • @meurglys_iii
    @meurglys_iii 27 днів тому

    Sorry. You have officially lost your mind if you spend $1800 on a set of headphones.

    • @RX-rd4sc
      @RX-rd4sc 16 днів тому

      You are officially lost your mind if you spend 50k$ on your car when you can buy a 4k$ car
      Its all about luxury dude

    • @meurglys_iii
      @meurglys_iii 16 днів тому

      @@RX-rd4sc Are you familiar with apples and oranges?