Andover Audio’s new Planar Magnetic headphones are here to provide a premium headphone experience at a not so premium price.
The $500 PM-50 Planar Magnetic Headphones are their first headphones, and they have housings made of genuine Walnut wood juxtaposed with a black aluminum frame. On the backside of each housing are grilles also made of black aluminum with the Andover logo cut into the center. The look is meant to mirror the mid-century inspired design of their innovative Model One all-in-one Record Player.
While the aesthetics are top-notch, the PM-50 are also designed with detailed and accurate sound in mind. That starts with the choice of planar magnetic drivers over dynamic drivers. Andover believes dynamic drivers suffer distortion from “cone breakup” which makes them less natural sounding than planar designs.
The PM-50 also comes with two sets of earpads. A thicker set is said to provide a more open, laid-back sound, while a thinner set is provided for more impactful sound. Above-average sensitivity means they can be driven with portable devices as well as dedicated headphone amps.
Five hundred dollars is relatively cheap for a pair of planar magnetic headphones (which routinely sell above $1000) and the price puts them directly in the middle of the under $1000 planar market headlined by Hifiman’s $350 Sundara and the $599 Mr. Speakers Aeon (Open and Closed). We have a pair on the way for review. Can’t wait to hear them!
The PM-50 is available now via andoveraudio.com
Specs:
Headphone Style: Over-Ear
Enclosure: Genuine Walnut Hardwood
Ear-Cushions: Two Sets
Cable: Removable / Upgradable
Headphone Impedance Rating: 32 ohms
Frequency Response Range: 15Hz – 50kHz
Driver Sensitivity: 102dB/1mW
Retail Price: $500
I’m an audio writer who started as a young audio salesman/consumer electronics professional back in the late 90s. That’s where I discovered the magic of 2-Channel sound. My thirst for great sound has led me on a delightful music quest that continues today.
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