Podcast Producer and Film Writer - NYC
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Articles by Jordan Aaron
iFi Audio iDSD Valkyrie vs Chord Hugo 2
There haven’t been too many top of the line portable DAC/Amps that have tried to compete with the Chord Hugo 2. The DAC and headphone amplifier came out in 2017, and has reigned supreme ever since. At $2,500, the Hugo 2 is a versatile piece of equipment that pushed boundaries upon its release. But now iFi, who have also ventured into the portable high-end market with the Diablo 2, has released the iDSD Valkyrie.
iFi iDSD Valkyrie DAC and Headphone Amp Review
iFi has become a fan favorite over the years for providing excellent sound quality at an exceptional value. We’ve loved products like the Zen DAC 3 and Zen Can 3, as well as portable devices like iDSD Diablo 2. Now, iFi has introduced a brand new high end headphone amp and DAC that builds on all of those models and looks to provide a one-stop shop for all of your digital audio needs.
Ferrum Wandla HP Review
Since releasing their first products in 2020, Ferrum has gained notoriety in the audio world for their high end audio components. We’ve loved items like the Erco 2, and the top of the line OOR and Hypsos combo. Now we have another great item from the Polish manufacturer, the Wandla HP, which is a DAC/amplifier. It looks to add an excellent headphone amplifier stage to the already superb Wandla DAC. Does the output live up to the quality of the converter inside? Let’s find out in this review.
Fiio FT1 Pro vs. Audio-Technica ATH-R50x Comparison Review
Affordable headphones just keep getting better and better these days. Just recently, we’ve reviewed several entry-level headsets that we’ve enjoyed quite a bit. Without a doubt, though, two of the most promising open-back headphones under $200 are the Fiio FT1 Pro and the Audio-Technica ATH-R50x. At $199.99 at $159 respectively, these headphones take vastly different approaches, yet both deliver outstanding listening experiences. But which is the right one for you?
CanJam NYC 2025 Recap
CanJam NYC has once again come and gone. The 2025 NYC edition of the world’s biggest headphone show was packed with audiophiles ready to hear the latest and greatest in hifi gear. And on top of that, I was once again amazed by the forward-thinking and excellent sounding products different manufacturers brought to the show. Below, you’ll find some of my favorite products of CanJam NYC 2025, with a major emphasis on the future of hifi.
What to Look Forward to at CanJam NYC 2025
It’s already time again for CanJam NYC. The 2025 edition of the event will take place in Times Square on February 22nd and 23rd, and there’s a ton of new gear that we’re excited to see at the show. Below, you can find the headphones, IEMs, and audio gear we’re looking forward to trying out the most at CanJam NYC 2025. Abyss JOAL Like many companies, Abyss Headphones will have a new product at this year’s CanJam NYC. The JOAL is a great headphone that we recently gave a glowing review.
Abyss JOAL Headphone Review
Abyss has long had an eye on shaking up the world of high-end audio. With the AB-1266 Phi TC and Diana range, their headphones have become staples for the modern audiophile. But with their foothold in the high-end space, the New York-based company challenged themselves to develop a product in a more competitive price bracket. The Abyss JOAL headphones (short for jack of all listening) has two goals. 1) to serve as an entry-point into Abyss’s product line and sonic capabilities.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa vs Audeze MM-100 Comparison Review
When Audio-Technica created the ATH-R70xa, they wanted both professionals and audiophiles to enjoy the headphone. So we wanted to see how the R70xa matches up with the esteemed Audeze MM-100. Both come in under $400, with the R70xa clocking in at $349 and the MM-100 at $349. The Audeze headphones, just like the Audio-Technica headphones, are open-back reference headphones geared for both mixing/mastering as well as for home playback.
Audio-Technica ATH-R50x vs Beyerdynamic DT880 Pro Comparison Review
If you’ve been following our recent coverage, Audio-Technica’s recent releases have really caught our attention. The ATH-R70xa was a notable upgrade over the original ATH-R70x. But the ATH-R50x, the new entry-level professional open-back from the Japanese brand, captivated our ears too. The Audio-Technica ATH-R50x comes in at a stunning $159, making it a compelling choice for audiophiles on a budget.
Moondrop Kadenz vs. Meze Alba Comparison Review
Moondrop’s Kadenz IEM’s and Meze’s Alba IEM’s share a lot in common. They both come in under $200 (the Kadenz is $189.99 and the Alba is $159), each comes with its own dongle DAC/Amp, and both were some of our favorite budget IEM’s of 2024. With so many similarities, we wanted to compare the two so you can decide which one might be the right choice. There’s a lot to like about each, and we’ll talk about some of the highlights in their builds, designs, and sound signatures.
HiFiman Goldenwave Serenade Wireless Review
When HiFiman acquired Goldenwave, it was clear that the audio manufacturer was committed to creating audiophile DACs and amplifiers. With their own sophisticated R2R chip, the Hymalaya Pro, and Goldenwave’s design expertise, HiFiman aims to build high-resolution audio systems.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70xa Review
For years, Audio-Technica has served as a leader in the audio industry. From turntables to microphones to, of course, headphones, the Japanese brand seemingly does it all. With credibility from audiophiles and professionals alike, it’s no wonder the manufacturer maintains its popularity. We’ve loved models like their esteemed M-line as well as newcomers like the recent ATH-ADX3000, as they offer solutions for budget users and high end listeners alike.
Dan Clark Audio Noire X vs. Audeze LCD-2 Classic Closed: Comparison Review
Dan Clark Audio and Audeze have a lot in common. They’re both California-based makers of excellent headphones with an emphasis on planar magnetic drivers. But while they have those similarities, there’s also a lot that makes them unique. In build, design, and sound signature, DCA and Audeze have each carved out unique spaces in the audiophile world. So we wanted to take a look at two of their closed back headphones.
Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 300 vs Sony WH1000-XM5 Comparison Review
If you read our review on the Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 300, you know we loved it. We loved it so much, in fact, that it made our list of top wireless headphones of 2024. With all of our praise for it, we wondered how it would stack up against some other heavyweights in the wireless headphone space. So today we’re putting it up against the Sony WH-1000XM5 to see how the two headphones stack up. The AVENTHO 300 ($399) and WH-1000XM5 ($398) are both excellent options available under $400.
Upgrade sound and functionality with the Strauss & Wagner Epsom
Dongles have become some of the most popular pieces of audio gear available. They continue to upgrade sound quality, advanced features, and smaller footprints at more and more competitive prices. As they’ve proliferated, we’ve seen different types of dongles which each serve different purposes. Today, we have a very unique dongle DAC from Strauss & Wagner, who makes excellent audio cables and accessories. The Epsom comes in at just $19.99.
Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 vs. Noble Audio FoKus Rex5 Comparison Review
Choosing wireless earbuds can be tricky, especially when you get to the higher end side of the spectrum. There are a ton of options to pick from, all with their own unique strengths. If you read our list of top true wireless earbuds of 2024, then you know we loved the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 and the Noble Audio FoKus Rex5. These models, coming in at $399 and $449 respectively, stand at the upper echelon of Bluetooth earbuds.
Eversolo DMP-A10: A Comprehensive Review
It seems like Eversolo came out of nowhere when they burst on the scene with their DACs, the Z6 and Z8. Then they further established themselves with their line of streaming DACs, the DMP-A6 and DMP-A8 which also include built in DACs and preamps. They’ve released several iterations of those devices in recent years, making for a prolific output. But their newest model, the DMP-A10 looks to provide a high end solution for all sorts of streaming and playback needs.
Chord Electronics Alto Review | A headphone and speaker amp that can do it all
Chord Electronics is highly regarded for everything from the base model portable DAC/Amps, like the Mojo 2, all the way up to their higher end DACs and amplifiers like the Hugo 2. Then there’s their top of the line offerings like the Dave, a true champion in the high end DAC game. The through line for all these devices is a rich and textured but highly neutral and detailed sound.
AlphaTheta HDJ-F10 Review - Wireless Headphones for DJs and Audiophiles?
In the last four or so years, AlphaTheta has become a reliable producer of DJ equipment. Their DJ gear and headphones are industry standard items and the company’s newest headphone, the HDJ-F10 looks to expand the company’s assumed use case.
The Best Wireless Headphones of 2024
We saw a lot of great innovations in the wireless headphone category this year, with bold entries from companies ranging from Sony to Dali. Today we’re going to tell you our five favorite Bluetooth headsets categorized by price. We’ll break down each headphone’s notable features and why we like them so much. Sennheiser Accentum Plus ($199.95) The Accentum Plus was one of the earliest entrants in the wireless headphone world this year.
The Best True Wireless Earbuds of 2024
2024 was a great year for true wireless earbuds. With a variety of options from a slate of different brands, there was truly a little something for everybody. In this article, we’ll break down five of our favorite earbuds of the year and help you decide which are the best TWS earbuds of 2024. Sony LinkBuds Fit ($199.99) Sony released a new, more-budget friendly entry into the true wireless space this year.
Noble Audio FoKus Rex5: True Wireless Earbuds Review
Noble Audio has released a lot of interesting products this year. They wowed with their first over ear headphones, the FoKus Apollo, which featured a dual-driver design. Then there was the FoKus Triumph, which used xMems technology to produce its well-regarded sound. And let’s not forget the Kama and the Onyx, which came out earlier this year as well. It’s amazing how many consistently good products Noble released this year.
Sennheiser Momentum TWS 4 vs JBL Tour Pro 3: Which Earbuds to Buy in 2024?
JBL and Sennheiser are two of the most legendary companies in the audio world. JBL, with their parent company Harman, have created a blueprint for many sound signatures over the years. Meanwhile Sennheiser has become a reputable source for all things audio. Given their reputations, you would be correct to assume they bring great expertise to the true wireless earbud category. On that note, they’ve produced some of the best true wireless earbuds of 2024 in the Momentum True Wireless 4 and Tour Pro 3.
Wired vs. Wireless: Focal Azurys and Bathys Showdown
Focal’s line of products is robust. They’ve got something for just about everyone, especially since they added mid-fi offerings like the Hadenys ($699) and Azurys ($549) this year. In our review of the Azurys, we noted its design giving the appearance of a more lifestyle-oriented headphone. Its looks, size, and weight make it portable and stylish. So it’s natural to wonder how it stacks up with its bluetooth counterpart, the Bathys ($699).
Meze 105 AER vs. Meze 109 Pro: A Detailed Headphone Comparison
Meze made waves when they introduced the Meze 109 Pro as it quickly became one of the best headphones under $1,000. Starting at $799, the 109 pro is a stellar value, giving you Meze design and sound at a fantastic price. But when the audio company announced the 105 AER at $399, people wondered if the new model would upstage its older sibling. Well today, we’re here to put each headphone through its paces and determine for whom each one might be for, and how they stack up in terms of their value.
Hifiman Arya Unveiled Review
We’ve talked a lot this year about Hifiman and their unveiled stealth drivers. To refresh, first came the top of the line Susvara Unveiled, which introduced the fully open driver design to the world. Then, more recently, came the HE1000 Unveiled, with which we were extremely impressed. Now, only shortly after the HE1000 Unveiled was released, we have the Arya Unveiled.
Dan Clark Audio Noire X Review
Dan Clark Audio has grown a lot since its early days. After moving on from the MrSpeakers monaker back in 2019. Since then, the company has gained notoriety for their boundary-pushing technical designs, as well as for their innovative build practices. Their new Noire X follows in this tradition. Continuing a design language that started with the Aeon series while pushing the boundaries of what can go into a $999 headphone.
Hifiman HE1000 Unveiled Review
We’ve gotten used to Hifiman pushing technological boundaries with each of their releases. Earlier this year, the esteemed audio company made the unconventional move of removing the grills from the back of Susvara’s ear cups. They called it Susvara Unveiled. This headphone is a masterclass on top of the line sound. But unsatisfied with pushing the boundaries of TOTL audio, Hifiman they now look to push that very same boundary downward through the rest of their product line.
Focal Azurys Review
Focal is a renowned audio manufacturer in both the speaker and headphone spaces. Their Clear Mg and Utopia headphones are modern classics. But what about beginner audiophiles who want a mid-fi taste of Focal’s sound without jumping right into high end territory? Now you can find that option in their new Hadenys and Azurys headphones. The Hadenys is Focal’s mid-fi open-back option, the counterpart to the closed-back Azurys which we’ll be discussing today.
M4 Macs - What DAC/Amps will pair best?
It’s once again getting to that time of year where Apple starts updating their computers. Starting October 29, Apple will begin unveiling new M4 Macs. Rumor has it that the MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac Mini will receive updates. As Apple’s line of computers continues to grow, so have personal audio devices. Whether you’re on the go with a laptop or at your desk, your Mac computer is one of the best ways to create a control center for your music and create your perfect yet simple setup.
These are the best headphones for traveling in 2024
It can be tough to choose the right headphones for travel. With so many great options out there, how can you choose? Well we’re here to help, with this list of headphones that would be great for travel and portable use. Whether entry-level or top of the line, Bluetooth or wired, we’ll cover something from every price bracket and use case so you can choose accordingly. So let’s just jump right in.
What Streamer Is Best For You?
As smart devices have taken over our lives, some audiophiles may find it to be a good time to modernize their system with a streamer. From entry-level devices offering exceptional sound at affordable prices to high-end systems built for serious enthusiasts, the market is filled with options tailored to meet varying needs and budgets. In this article, we’ll explore a range of streamers from compact, user-friendly models to advanced, all-in-one systems.
Sivga P2 Pro vs SV023
Sivga has quickly gained recognition for its high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional sound offerings. Established in 2016, Sivga has since released several well-received headphones, including the Phoenix, Luan, and original P-II. However, two models stand out in particular: the brand new Sivga P2 Pro and the fan favorite Sivga SV023. These headphones represent different approaches to design and audio engineering, appealing to both planar magnetic and dynamic driver enthusiasts.
What are the Best Bass Headphones in 2024?
There’s no one true “audiophile” sound. Different strokes for different folks, as they say. But oftentimes what gets most praise from the audiophile community are ones with “reference” or “neutral” sound. Having a neutral reference is great for having a way to compare headphones from each other. That said, plenty of audiophiles look for a more engaging and exciting sound. Some find this in brighter headphones with splashy treble.
Bowers & Wilkins Pi5 S2 vs Pi6 Comparison Review
Bowers & Wilkins recently updated their TWS line to include the Pi8. This new edition introduced a more refined sound as well as updated technology for their pinnacle TWS product. Now they’re updating the Pi5 line with the Pi6. There are some distinct differences between the Pi5 S2 and the new Pi6.
What Dongle Should You Use With the Samsung Galaxy S24?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 range of phones are power house phones. Among their many great features is storage space. On the basic models you can get up to 256GB and on the Ultra, you can go all the way up to 1TB. With all that space, you can store a ton of music locally or via streaming apps like Tidal or Qobuz, which is especially helpful because Samsung omitted Bluetooth 5.4 on this model, so there’s no lossless streaming via wireless.
Sony Updates Wireless Devices
If you have Sony TWS earbuds or wireless over ear headphones, you’ve probably noticed some updates. From an updated Sound Connect app to new third party compatibilities, Sony is upping their game across the board. In this article we’ll break everything that’s new for your headphones. Along with their new LinkBuds S, the Sony WH-1000XM5 and WF-1000XM5 will both get Google’s Find My Device and Fast Pair compatibility.
Fostex TH1100RP Review
Fostex is one of the most reputable brands in audio for a reason. Their entry level headphones are as revered as their high end ones. With popular entry level models like the TH50RP and cult classic high end ones like the TH909, the brand often faces lofty expectations. Now they’ve released a new flagship headphone, the TH1100RP. Coming in at $2,699.99, Fostex intends for this to be its open-back top of the line model. So does it achieve flagship greatness?
What to look forward to at CanJam SoCal 2024
Summer has come and gone but you can still soak up the sun in Southern California as it’s already time for another edition of CanJam. As with every CanJam, there are plenty of new products to be on the lookout for. Below, you can find the headphones and IEMs we’re looking forward to seeing the most at CanJam SoCal 2024. Hifiman HE1000SE Unveiled Hifiman changed the game with their brand new Susvara Unveiled this year.
Add Bluetooth to your Sennheiser IEMs
Bluetooth 5.4 is still making its way across wireless headsets. And while the promise of lossless Bluetooth transmission remains a tantalizing possibility for audiophiles on the go, one still has to wonder about the implementation of lossless audio and the limitations of consumer wireless earbuds. That’s what makes Strauss & Wagner’s new releases, the Ovar, Palma, and Sines, particularly exciting.
Empire Ears Triton Launch Edition Review
The experimentation with different driver tech in IEMs has allowed the in-ear space to get far more sophisticated in recent years. We’ve seen manufacturers use subwoofer drivers and bone conduction tech, on top of more standard BA and dynamic drivers. But where much of the boundary pushing comes to light is in combining these driver types to create a coherent sound. With this in mind, I’m excited to have the opportunity to review the Legacy Edition of Empire Ears’s Triton IEM.
Noble Audio FoKus Triumph Review
Noble Audio has been pushing the boundaries of wireless headphone tech of late. Recently we covered their new over-ear headphone, the FoKus Apollo. The great ambition of the Apollo was using both a dynamic and planar-magnetic driver in the design of the headphones. Now we have in for review a TWS earbud – the FoKus Triumph – which comes in at $369 and also features a dual-driver design. And in this instance, it’s even more boundary pushing.
Focal Bathys vs Noble FoKus Apollo Comparison Review
Focal’s Bathys headphones have long been the bridge to higher fidelity listening in luxury wireless headphones. At $699 they stand right between the premium sets made by Sony and Sennheiser, and the high end sets by Mark Levinson and Dali. But now there is a new player in this price range: the Noble FoKus Apollo. Coming in at a competitive $649, listeners will want to know how the two sets of cans compare head on.
Fiio K11 R2R Review
R2R technology has been growing in both popularity and accessibility. Most recently it was Hifiman dropping the EF500 DAC/amp, which sported an abridged version of the company’s Himalaya R2R chip. But now there is new competition in the affordable R2R market: Fiio. Fiio has long been known to aim for great value to performance in their products. At $169.99, the Fiio K11 R2R looks to provide great sound at an earth-shatteringly low price.
Updating a Classic - Audeze LCD-2 Padauk Review
It’s been 15 years since the esteemed Audeze LCD-2 hit the market. Since 2009, the headphone has spawned closed back versions, a classic version, and has received several updates. Now in 2024, Audeze has come out with another round of improvements for the revered headphone. The latest LCD-2 revision, coming in at $995, looks to upgrade the looks, feel, and sound of the headphone, without changing what made it a classic in the first place. Does the audio brand succeed? Let’s find out in this review.
A perfect pairing? Meze Empyrean II and Strauss and Wagner Porto
Meze makes some world class headphones. And while their mid-fi headphones use standard 3.5mm connectors for their cables, their higher end models use mini-xlr. They’re not the only manufacturer to use this connector type. Yet, finding an affordable upgrade cable for them can be challenging. Meze’s own upgrade cable clocks in at $399. But when we recently reviewed the new $149 Porto cable from Strauss & Wagner, I was eager to see how it would sound with Meze’s high end offerings.
Noble Audio Fokus Apollo Review
If you’re in the audiophile space, you’ve surely heard the name Noble Audio. They’re best known for their high end IEMs and excellent TWS earbuds. But they aren’t ones to limit themselves to what they already know. That’s why I was so excited to get their brand new over ear headphone, the Fokus Apollo, in for review. At $649, there’s a lot that’s different about this headphone, and I’m looking forward to breaking all that down for you.
Beyerdynamic MMX 330 Pro vs. Audeze Maxwell
It seems like every day, the market for gaming headsets gets more and more fierce. With that in mind, Beyerdynamic has fortified their gaming headset line with the MMX 330 Pro, an open-back variant to the MMX 300 Pro released earlier this year. We liked the MMX 330 here at MajorHifi. But we wanted to see how the headphone would stack up to a perennial all-star like the Audeze Maxwell.
Strauss & Wagner Porto Review
Many audio brands are using mini-xlr connectors on their headphone cables. Audeze, Meze, ZMF, and Sennheiser all use the connector on at least one of their headphone models. And while mini-XLR is becoming more widespread, and is reliable and durable as a connector, high quality after market cables can still be tough to find. So if you want to upgrade to, let’s say, a 4.4mm balanced termination, where do you look? Well Strauss & Wagner has taken this use case into account with their new release.
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