Legendary Japanese electrostatic headphone manufacturer Stax has just announced the release of their new top-of-the-range earspeaker called the SR-X9000.
The headphone contains many new developments but perhaps the most important is the improvements to their fixed electrode, which has now evolved to the 4-layer structure MLER-3.
“An etching electrode and a metal-mesh electrode are bonded using the diffused junction (thermocompression bonding). After two generations of STAX flagship models, STAX’s manufacturing technology makes a significant contribution to the stable mass production of big round-shaped metal-mesh electrodes.” This has lead to an improvement in sound, which Stax describe as “sound transparency evolved more smoothly than conventional multi-layer fixed electrodes. And the rigidity characteristic resistant to vibration also evolved.”
One of the most important features of any electrostatic headphone is its diaphragm, the ultra-thin film used to create the sound. Reducing the mass to as close to zero as possible has been key for the SR-X9000. By increasing the diameter by 20% compared to the previous flagship, the SR-009S, Stax have been able to open up the soundstage and improve the transient characteristics.
Stax have used a number of high-quality materials in the design of the X9000. The housings are machined from a tough aluminium and the ARC assembly is built using stainless steel. The earpads are made from genuine sheepskin leather for a luxurious and breathable feel.
The cable uses a replaceable mechanism which is great for servicing and upgrades meaning the headphones will be future proofed. The package comes with a 1.5m and a 2.5m cable.
The SR-X9000 is due for release later this month and retails are £5,395.