Fosi Audio i5 Headphone Review - Weirdly Different, in a Good Way?

Introduction to FSY Audio I5 Plar Headphones

Overview of the Review

• Joe from Gadgetry Tech introduces the FSY Audio I5 Plar magnetic open-back headphones, noting a delay in the review due to its Kickstarter phase.

• The video is released with only two days left in the Kickstarter campaign, emphasizing urgency for potential backers.

Reasons for Delayed Review

• Joe typically avoids reviewing Kickstarter products due to concerns about project viability but found this headphone intriguing after hearing it at Can Jam New York.

• He aims to inform viewers who may be undecided about backing the product, providing insights based on his experience.

Pricing and Availability

Cost Structure

• The headphones are priced under $400 during the Kickstarter phase, with deluxe packages available for just under $500.

• Post-Kickstarter retail prices are expected to rise significantly, potentially reaching $550-$600 depending on tariffs and market conditions.

Comparison Considerations

• Joe plans to compare these headphones with others across different price ranges, highlighting how pricing impacts perceived value.

Unboxing and Included Accessories

What's in the Box?

• The package includes the headphones and at least one cable; however, there is no carrying case—only foam protection for shipping.

Cable Specifications

• The default cable is an unbalanced 3.5 mm dual connection; aftermarket cables can be used since it does not have proprietary connections.

Cable Quality and Features

Cable Design Insights

• The included cable is thick and weighty with aluminum terminations that feel premium; a balanced cable upgrade option is also available.

Adapter Information

• A 4.4 mm Pentagon connection comes with an adapter turning it into XLR; a 1/4 inch adapter is also included in the box.

Technical Specifications

Sensitivity and Impedance

• The sensitivity rating of 98 dB per milliwatt at 1 kHz indicates good efficiency; impedance measured around 30 ohms suggests compatibility with various amplifiers without significant frequency response changes.

Clamp Force Measurement

• Joe measures clamp force at 630 grams, placing it within average range compared to other headphones in its category.

Design Characteristics

Physical Attributes

Headphone Review Insights

Design and Comfort Features

• The headphone design features a wider build with significant depth, comparable to HyperX gaming headsets, ensuring comfort for users' ears.

• The ear pads are attached using Velcro, which may compromise the seal, potentially affecting sound quality despite being an open-back design.

• A mod kit will be included in future shipments to enhance the seal and improve frequency response by adding a rubber ring.

• The headphones utilize a 97 mm diaphragm with unique construction that may lead to modal issues affecting sound fidelity due to asymmetrical trace placement.

• Made from real walnut and CNC milled aluminum, the chassis is robust; hinges provide strong resistance without rattling.

Adjustability and Fit

• The adjustable strap has some friction but holds well in place once set, crucial for maintaining comfort during extended use.

• Users with larger heads will find the design accommodating; however, adjustments can be slightly cumbersome due to stiffness in the yolk mechanism.

• Despite its size, the headphones remain comfortable even for long periods; padding combines leatherette and breathable fabric for enhanced wearability.

• Glasses wearers will appreciate the plush edge of the padding that does not significantly affect sound quality or comfort.

Sound Quality Analysis

• Objective measurements are taken using a Grass KB00006X Pinnacone rig; results should not be compared across different testing methodologies.

Audio Review Insights

Frequency Response and Driver Behavior

• The headphone exhibits a slight bass lift, adding warmth beneficial for guitars and certain vocals, despite lacking sub-bass.

• Notable rises and dips in frequency response above 500 Hz indicate modal issues with the driver, leading to discrepancies between left and right channels.

• Measurement data often diverges from actual listening experiences; the ear gain area (3k-4k Hz) is relaxed, causing some voices and instruments to sound veiled.

• A significant peak occurs around 10,000 Hz, which is noticeable during listening sessions; this affects the subjective audio experience.

Comparison with Other Headphones

• The Original Voice CS97M shares a similar chassis and driver but is priced over $1,000; it also displays comparable modal issues in upper mid-range and low treble frequencies.

• FSY Audio has made several modifications to improve sound quality compared to previous models like the CS97M.

Subjective Listening Experience

• The reviewer appreciates the warm presentation of music on acoustic tracks due to a relaxed mid-range that enhances overall enjoyment.

• While reviewing at Can Jam New York, limitations were noted regarding identifying sub-bass and upper treble due to environmental noise.

Sub-Bass Performance

• The headphone lacks strong sub-bass presence; its mid-bass sounds more pronounced due to an open-back design that reduces seal effectiveness.

• A mod kit may enhance frequency response by creating a better seal but could diminish the current mid-bass lift experienced without it.

Overall Impressions

• The review emphasizes that while there are weaknesses in sub-bass performance, other aspects of sound can be enjoyable enough to outweigh these flaws for certain genres.

• Future measurements will be provided after testing with the ring kit; currently based on performance without it.

Headphone Review Insights

Sound Characteristics and Listening Experience

• The headphones exhibit interesting peaks in sound, particularly around 10,000 Hz, which may not be as pronounced in other models like the Hi-Famman headphones. This creates a unique listening experience.

• Not all tracks will sound overly sharp; some songs, especially those with a laid-back mix (e.g., James Blake), can provide a more relaxing sound that masks sharper treble frequencies. Your experience will vary based on the genre and track selected.

• The large drivers and pads contribute to an open interaction with the ear, creating a spatial audio effect where vocals feel centered yet slightly distant. This enhances the immersive quality of music listening.

• When paired with the right track, these headphones deliver exceptional sound quality that stands out among competitors in their price range, making them enjoyable for various genres.

Comparison with Other Headphones

• The reviewer emphasizes the importance of comparing new products against older models to assess true value rather than succumbing to consumerism trends; good sound quality remains timeless regardless of age or price changes.

Mez Audio 105 AR

• Priced at $400, this headphone offers comfort and self-serviceability but has a warmer bass response compared to the i5 model. It lacks some clarity but provides more sub-bass punch suitable for rock music enthusiasts.

Odyssey MM100

• Features a linear flat bass response and performs well with EQ adjustments; however, it may come off as dark or unresolving in upper mid-range frequencies compared to others like the i5 which excels in technical performance and detail resolution.

Focal Adenise

• A compact design that is comfortable for extended use while delivering dynamic sound suitable for rock music; it balances bass without being overly warm or resolving as much as higher-end models but is versatile enough for daily use due to its overall performance capabilities.

Focal Elix

• Known for its punchy dynamics but can be heavy over long periods; combines desirable traits from other models while offering safe tuning options that make it flexible across different listening scenarios without sacrificing too much detail or comfort during use.

Sennheiser 660S2

Headphone Review Insights

Technical Performance and Sound Quality

• The reviewer critiques the upper mid-range of a headphone, noting it sounds "somewhat lifeless" and lacks clarity, leading to a feeling of missing music elements.

• The Hi-Fi headphones are praised for their exceptional sound performance, particularly the Edition XS model, which is noted for its value under $300 and good EQ response.

• The Edition XS features an abundance of upper treble that may require adjustment; however, it remains highly resolving and detailed in sound quality.

• Comparatively, the i5 headphone offers smoothness in vocals while maintaining speed and detail retrieval, making it a strong contender against other models like the Hifman Arya Stealth.

• The reviewer appreciates the balance of technical capability in the i5, highlighting its relaxed low treble compared to other products from HiFiMan.

Comfort and Design Considerations

• The Ananda Nano is mentioned as having a stronger clamp but also provides decent frequency response; however, it's noted to be bright.

• Size considerations are discussed: the Edition XS fits larger heads better than smaller ones like MM100. This highlights varying user needs based on head size.

• Despite differences in tuning between models aimed at different head sizes, both can be viable options depending on personal preference.

• The i5's design is described as large yet comfortable for extended wear; its clamp pressure is well-distributed due to large pads.

Product Range and Future Reviews

• A mention of FSY's new product lineup includes gaming decks and amplifiers alongside headphones.

• Upcoming reviews will cover new speakers (SP 601), which reportedly deliver warmer bass with smoother treble than expected for their price range.

Final Thoughts on Headphones

• While not deemed perfect for everyone or as a singular choice among headphones, the i5 stands out due to its unique balance of warmth and clarity in sound quality.

Links to Purchase Products

Closing Remarks

• The speaker provides links in the description for purchasing products mentioned, emphasizing that these are not affiliate links.

• The intention behind sharing the links is to assist viewers in finding the products rather than for financial gain.

• A note of gratitude is expressed towards the audience for their support and engagement.