The headphone experience isn’t just a sonic one—it’s a tactile one, too. To cover both senses with exceptional attention to detail, leading earpad manufacturer Dekoni teamed up with enthusiast headphone brand HIFIMAN to create the Cobalt: a pair of closed-back headphones that feels as good as it sounds Read More
I got to hear these at CanJam Chicago 2023, and I was pleasantly surprised. I was initially very skeptical of the price, sound, and headband choice, but I think I've been won over... if only barely!
Sound-wise, I think these are very pleasant (with the Velour pads for me, at least). While the chassis is reminiscent of the R7DX, the sound is in a completely different league. But on that same note, the price seems hard to swallow due to the borrowed chassis. Repurposing a chassis, improving internal dampening, replacing drivers, etc. are not new concepts in the hobby, though. If I shift my perspective to these being a "pre-modded" version of the R7DX, the price starts to seem a bit more reasonable. Either way, if we're just talking sound, I can't think of another closed-back headphone sub-$800 that I like more.
As for build, these headphones are deceptively lightweight. Additionally, the extreme light weight and the balanced clamp force of the headphones left no hotspots on my head, something I've rarely had luck with for a simple cushioned headband. If I had a 24+ hour gaming marathon, these would be my comfort pick. However, it should be known that the cups BARELY swivel, which can leave an unfortunate gap behind your ears depending on your head's shape. This happened to me unless I was extra careful, though your mileage may vary.
TL;DR: Great sounding headphones, and super comfy. But the chassis can't help but make me think of the R7DX, and that price delta is unnervingly large.
This headphone appears to have been made from spare-parts and given a coat of blue paint.
With a significantly higher release price than the previous (and similar-looking) HIFIMAN collaboration (the HE-R7DX), its unique drivers and overall performance had better offer something truly special...
Or I don't expect it will sell well at all.