Massdrop x Fostex TR-X00 Ebony Headphones

When the Massdrop community asked for a closed-back headphone that redefined price-to-performance expectations, the TH-X00 was our answer. Made in collaboration with Fostex, a brand that’s produced innovative audio gear since 1949, these headphones feature ebony ear cups, a magnesium alloy frame, and Fostex’s signature biodynamic drivers. Prized for its hardness and density as much as its beauty, ebony makes for a darker aesthetic and a smoother, more refined sound signature. Now, in another response to the community’s requests, we’ve updated the original with a removable cable. Introducing the TR-X00 (the “R” stands for “removable”): everything you loved about the TH-X00, now with a detachable cable for greater flexibility. 

Our measurements show that these new headphones have the flattest frequency response of any TR-X00 edition, as well as the deepest bass extension. While the Mahogany and Purpleheart lose some steam in the 3–4 kHz region, the Ebony maintains a smoother descent, and the mids are more present with a smoother transition into the upper mids. As for the high frequencies, while the original Mahogany has a peak at 9 kHz, the Ebony (to an even greater degree than the Purpleheart) reduces that area, leaving the 10 kHz+ region to sparkle without any harshness.

Equipped with the biodynamic cone Fostex first developed in the late ‘80s, which delivers a sound unique to any other driver structure, the TR-X00 benefits from years of iteration on the initial design. The higher magnetic flux density in these headphones (more than 1 tesla) creates instant attack and decay for a crisper, more detailed sound signature. With the emphasis on the low end toned down slightly from the TH-600, the rich bass meets the Fostex standard without becoming bloated. The result is an incredibly intimate sound, like being front row at a small venue.

The TR-X00’s wood ear cups are a nod to the Denon D series and complemented by Fostex’s proprietary magnesium alloy body, built to be lightweight, strong, and durable. Made of eggshell protein, the ear pads’ soft leatherette is designed to form a super tight seal, while still being breathable for hours of comfortable listening. And because the curve of the headband has been optimized to fit the human head, minimal padding is needed. The thick, braided cable has a conveniently long distance between the headphones and Y split. The Massdrop logo is silk-screened on the inside of the headband, just above the left cup, with a serial number located just above the right cup. 

“The ebony wood is exquisite. I like that it’s subtle. The wood grain is visible on closer inspection and appears glossy black from a distance … The bass and high-frequency extension is pretty impressive. It renders sub frequencies with ease and clarity. Bass is tight, fast, and clean with no perceivable bleed. Mids are tuned nicely to form a little bit of that smiley-face EQ that make these really pleasant to listen to. Highs are present, airy, and sibilant free. It's a really clean, crisp, and enjoyable sound signature.” – Massdrop member MXRC