PLAYBACK 23: Ultrasone Edition 8 Headphones

Naturally Balanced with Few Weaknesses

Competitive Comparison

The most obvious direct competitor to the Edition 8 would be the Sennheiser HD 800. In side-by-side comparisons, here are some key differences I observed between the Edition 8s and the HD 800s:

• The Edition 8s are a little more accurately balanced in the upper midrange.
• The Edition 8s are slightly brighter than the HD 800s; the difference is small, but I prefer the Ultrasones.
• The Edition 8s have somewhat more mid-bass than either live music or the slightly reticent HD 800s; Edition 8 bass balance seems better, though I think taste is a factor here.
• The HD 800s seem to have better deep bass.
• The HD 800 balance yields a more mid-range focused sound, which some might prefer.
• The HD 800s are slightly softer; they are also more forgiving of bad recordings (a strength of both models, actually).
• Instrumental “air” seems more audible on the HD 800.

Comfort Factor/Accessories

The Edition 8 ear cups are soft and the clamping force is moderate. I thought they were comfortable for long periods, helped by their low weight. They might, however, aggravate pressure points after very long sessions.

The Edition 8s come with a one-meter cord and a mini-plug. If you’re using them in portable mode, that’s good; for everyone else an extension cord is in order. With an extension cord I didn’t like the fact that the plugs would yank the headphones if they fell off my lap.

I didn’t find the Edition 8s to be particularly amplifier sensitive. I used the Woo Audio WA22 prototype for much of my listening, but the Luxman P200 sounded very similar.

Bottom Line:

Ultrasone’s Edition 8 is a well-balanced headphone that gets out of the way of the music. You’ll have to look long and hard for flaws.

Specs & Pricing

Ultrasone Edition 8 Headphones
Accessories: Mini-plug to phone jack extension cord, leather carrying bag
Weight: 260 grams
Sensitivity: 96dB (input unspecified)
Impedance: 30 ohms
Price: $1499.00

ULTRASONE Inc.
20602 Fox Den Rd.
Wildomar, CA 92595
(951) 678 9091
www.ultrasone.com