HEDD Audio has elevated their flagship HEDDphone. Released in 2019, the original HEDDphone quickly made big waves in the pro audio community. The standout feature was their Air Motion Transformer (AMT) ribbon driver technology. I was already a fan of ribbon tweeters on studio midfield and nearfield monitors and here they were now on my ears, delivering an excellent level of clarity and detail in a pair of headphones.

HEDDphone earned its place in pro audio as a reference headphone. However, the original model seriously pushed the limits of wearability as it was extremely heavy with very bulky earpieces and a robust headband to support it all. There was a (reasonable) fear that extended listening sessions might be difficult due to its 730 grams (!) weight. In addition, the original headband, while durable, wasn't as adjustable as some users wanted.

This set the stage for the HEDDphone Two’s improvements.

Design and Build Quality

First off, HEDD have reduced the weight of HEDDphone Two by 180 grams - it now weighs in at 550 grams. This reduction from a very hefty 730 grams makes them FAR MORE suitable for extended listening sessions than the previous model. Gone is the fear that they might fall off if you leaned forwards! The ear cushions are generously padded (this suited my metal framed glasses very well), and they are covered in a plush velour.

The HEDDphone Two retains the distinctive industrial design of the originals, showcasing a blend of metal and plastic components that give a sleeker retro-futuristic vibe compared to the earlier version (think Fritz Lang’s film Metropolis). The headphones exude quality and craftsmanship. It's clear that HEDD Audio have upped their design, comfort and premium build quality!

The new HEDDband adjustment system allows for precise adjustment of the fit of the headphones to your head size via two adjustable locking straps to set height and grip. It's really worth playing with these to find your best fit. The ear cavity is large enough to suit all ear sizes, and I found that I got the best high frequency reproduction with the headphones higher up than the out-of-the-box configuration.




Sound Quality

The HEDDphone Two takes the AMT driver's capabilities to new heights. The midrange, particularly the low midrange, is where this updated design truly shines, offering an improved level of detail and articulation that I have not heard before on headphones. I am usually a ‘smile curve’ fan, favoring sub bass and high frequencies. The low mids on the HEDDPhone Two are so detailed they have become more enjoyable to listen to. This is new - I used to be a low mid ‘hater’. Now I am a convert! Thanks to the HEDDphone Two, I am giving low-mids a second chance.

Connectivity and Accessories

HEDDphone Two comes with a 2-meter 6.35mm jack cable and an alternate detachable 2.2-meter cable that terminates in a balanced XLR connector.

Summary

HEDDphone Two is lighter, cooler looking and even more revealing than the first model. Definitely worth trying for sure.

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