Massdrop x Fostex T-X0 Planar Magnetic Headphones

Following the success of our last collaboration with Fostex, the TH-X00, we’ve teamed up to make a new headphone: a custom production version of the much-loved, oft-modded Fostex T50RP. Introducing the Massdrop x Fostex T-X0, a resurrection of the discontinued MKII with the original tooling and a few key updates. Along with a fresh stealthy, streamlined aesthetic, it has more breathable ear pads, a more comfortable headband, and a shorter, more manageable cable. Finally, the sound has been tuned based on feedback from the audiophile community, delivering coherence, richness, and great bass slam while retaining clarity and speed.

From Fostex’s RP Series of planar-magnetic headphones, the T50RP has long been used in professional audio applications. And because the sound can be widely manipulated with physical modifications (like damping, vents, and alternative materials), this model is a favorite of audiophiles and DIYers as well. Its design has been modified for comfort and durability, too, with different headbands and ear pads, and in some cases, entirely new assemblies. Over time, DIY enthusiasts have formed companies and begun offering commercial versions of modified T50RP headphones. These have ranged in price from $269 to $1,200, depending on the materials used and the extent of the changes made.

Featuring the same tooling as the T50RP MKII, the T-X0 uses Fostex’s proprietary Regular Phase planar-magnetic diaphragm driver with a neodymium magnet and copper foil–etched polyimide film. Based on community feedback, Massdrop worked with Fostex to add filters and materials in front of and behind the driver, along with a gasket between the driver and plate, resulting in flattened mids and elevated low bass and upper mids. Custom laser-cut foam in the recesses of the ear cups provides extra damping. The deeper ear pads are made of velour and perforated protein leather to feel and breathe better, and the additional leather headband distributes weight evenly and won’t yank out your hair. Understated in black and brown with minimal printing, the T-X0 is complete with adjustable sliders and a detachable 6.6-foot cable.

"Overall quite nice. At $149, includes the suspension headband; and actually a lot of materials to give us a head start to tweaking!" - Marvy, SBAF Staff Member

"I think Massdrop has produced the right balance here: a good baseline to start with that more critical modders can go from, and a good compromise between price, performance, and many other factors involved." - Bill-P, SBAF Contributor