The luxury headphone game is peaking right now, and there’s no denying it. Sure, that’s probably bound to shift in the next year upon brands implementing currently unknown tech and design methods, Yamaha’s eye-grabbing YH-5000SE over-ears look to serve as the space’s standard until something new comes along.
By fusing premium audial elements and a transcendent look, the Japanese manufacturer’s new model is the best of both worlds. Starting with its rugged magnesium-machined frame, it has a two-layer headband for all-day comfort and is remarkably light, as the headset boasts an overall weight of fewer than 11.5 ounces. Plus, it comes with two different ear cup options — suede and sheepskin leather — to guarantee you find the perfect fit and feel. While wearability is integral, sound stands above the rest in this department, and that’s where the Dutch weave stainless steel filter makes an immediate impact. This innovation surrounds a set of Orthodynamic drivers and promotes quality dynamics across the board.
Moreover, the Tuning Fork’s signature driver ensures a balance of sound across the board, as its coiled, thin film diaphragm eliminates any sound degradation. The improved sound is partly thanks to its noticeably lesser weight than the traditional dynamic driver, resulting in seamless, rapid-fire responsiveness. Lastly, seeing as wired headphone purists still have a worthy argument from a quality perspective, the YH-5000SE even features a pair of detachable, silver-coated OFC cables that pave the way for crystal-clear mids and highs, as well as deep lows.
Yamaha’s YH-5000 headphones are expected to release in 2023 for $5,000.
