Headphones full-size philips fidelio x2 00. Review of on-ear headphones Philips Fidelio. The entire top line. Philips Fidelio F1. Small but remote

In 2012, Philips launched the Fidelio X1, the flagship model with an open acoustic design. For its sound signature, build quality and high value for money, the model received many accolades - both from the specialized press and from ordinary consumers. In many ways, with this model, Philips has been stepping on the heels of well-known audiophile brands with their more expensive Hi-End headphones. Philips recently launched a new top-of-the-line model, the Fidelio X2. What has changed in the new product and did Philips engineers manage to fix the minor bugs of the Fidelio X1? Answers in our review.

Design and construction

At first glance, the design of X1 and X2 does not differ from each other - these are over-ear headphones open type, made of premium materials. But while the X1's design had brown and silver accents, the X2 went completely black. Most of the headphone construction is made of metal (brushed aluminum), which gives them reliability and solid appearance... Looking at the specs, you can see that the weight has been reduced from 430 grams for the X1 to 380 grams for the X2. This, of course, has a positive effect on long-term listening comfort.

The headband has become a little larger, which will delight listeners with a large head, who noted the insufficient size of the headband on the Fidelio X1 model. The headband is covered in calfskin and has a very comfortable and elastic cushion for automatic adjustment of the size (like earphones from AKG).

Most often, the ear cushions were attributed to the disadvantages of the previous model - large, filled with memory foam and covered with soft velor - they provided excellent comfort, but for some reason turned out to be non-removable. Philips Fidelio X2 received interchangeable ear pads, don't worry that they will wear out over time - now they can be replaced with new ones without any problems, and they can be removed without any problems - no bolts or other complicated fasteners.

The set of headphones remains the same - a three-meter detachable cable in a fabric braid (3.5 mm mini-jacks at both ends) and a 6.3 mm adapter. Not the richest set for a flagship, but Philips Fidelio X2 costs less than many competitors in this class.

Sound

New Layered drivers have been prepared for the Philips flagship Motion Control(LMC). The diameter of the diaphragm remained the same (50 mm), but now it is composite: it consists of several layers of polymer with a damping gel interlayer. This solution equalizes the frequency response in the region of medium and high frequencies. The drivers are angled to the ear canal (15 °) to suppress reflections from the inner ear and enhance the stereo image.

According to Philips, the frequency range of the Fidelio X2 has been expanded to 5-40 kHz (versus 10-40 kHz for the X1). Impedance, maximum input power and sensitivity remain the same at 30 ohms / 500 mW / 100 dB @ 1 mW respectively. Thanks to the impedance and sensitivity, the headphones can even be used with a phone or tablet. However, to unleash its full potential, Fidelio X2 should be used in conjunction with Hi-Fi equipment (high-quality DAC and headphone amplifier). In addition, the model is open and intended primarily for home use - it is unlikely that you will be able to enjoy music from the X2 on public transport.

Typically, open-back headphones have a more natural sounding experience with a wider soundstage. The price paid for this is sound leakage to the outside and - often - a "weak" response in the area low frequencies... However, Philips has managed to achieve a warm and rich sound with powerful bass already in the Fidelio X1. In the new flagship, these qualities are not only preserved, but also improved.

The improvement in the sound of the Fidelio X2 versus the X1 is obvious. Headphones are noticeably better at handling voices, wind instruments, cymbals, and subtle nuances in the high frequency range. The bass is booming and full-bodied, but it has become more balanced, better controlled. The sound signature of the Fidelio X2 and X1 is similar, but new flagship sounds more mature. The response is smoother across the entire frequency range, which will certainly appeal to audiophiles and personal audio enthusiasts. Music is played more pleasantly and naturally, but still fun, without monitor dryness.

In addition, headphones are well suited not only for listening to music - surround sound and powerful low frequencies help to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of movies or games, explosions and various effects sound great.

Verdict

The Philips Fidelio range keeps getting better with every model, offering excellent value for money. Not many open headphone models can boast such low-frequency response, and the overall sound is more balanced and mature. Premium materials provide comfort and durability, and the Fidelio X2 also addresses the design flaws of its predecessor (headband size and removable ear cushions). Thus, the Philips Fidelio X2 is definitely one of the best home headphone options in its price range.

They have many benefits. The main thing among them is that the user has the opportunity, without disturbing anyone, to calmly watch a movie or just listen to music. The headphones reviewed in this article appeared on the market relatively recently. They are positioned by the manufacturing company as a premium model for amateur use.

The good shape provides excellent sound insulation and excellent sound quality. In this regard, the user can completely immerse himself in the music world, forgetting about the headphones on his head.

general description

The device is a classic full-size open-type model made of high quality materials. The main structure of the earbuds is made of metal. Many users find that the large headband is very soft. It is impossible not to pay attention to the large cups covered with a pleasant to the touch velor cups. The outer parts are made of soft plastic. They look very solid, but here in some places the joints are visible, which creates a certain discomfort from an aesthetic point of view. The standard equipment of the device includes a detachable wire in a fabric braid, the length of which is three meters, as well as a 6.3 mm adapter.

Design and ergonomics

Speaking about the design of the headphones, it is necessary to emphasize the fact that the use of quality materials provides the device with a very solid appearance. There are no special complaints about the assembly. In spite of big size, the headphones are quite lightweight.

An air hammock is attached under the headband, thanks to which a comfortable fit is provided. Moreover, the device is hardly felt on the head and quickly adapts to its shape. Ears do not get numb even with prolonged use of the novelty, which makes it very convenient for watching movies.

Main characteristics

Headphones are a wired modification, and therefore it makes no sense to talk about control. Equipped with Layered Motion Control drivers can be called the main highlight in the technical equipment. Feedback from many users indicates that due to this, when listening to music, the mid and high frequencies are reproduced as clearly as possible. The developers used a composite diaphragm in the model, the size of which is 50 millimeters. It consists of several layers of polymer, between which there is a gel layer. To successfully suppress reflections from the inner ear, the ear cups are positioned at an angle of 15 degrees to the ear canal. According to representatives of the manufacturer, the frequency range of the device is in the range from 5 to 40 kHz.

Sound and acoustics

The model is considered a semi-studio type headphones. Their use helps the owner to fully feel the entire musical scale of the melody being played. Feedback from the owners of the device indicates that when listening to songs, there is a feeling of complete immersion, regardless of which style of music this or that track belongs to.

Thanks to the open acoustic design, there is no pressure behind the sound transducer and the diaphragm moves freely. This is the key to transparent and clear sound. Low resistance cable together with double cups reduce interference. The headphones sound very loud, and therefore the device can even be used as a kind of speakers. It should be noted that during production, each speaker is thoroughly tested and tuned, then pairs are matched, which also provides detailed natural sound.

disadvantages

As in other models from this manufacturer, the so-called headphone leakage rate is over 50 percent. In other words, the surrounding people will also hear the music. In this case, even a low volume will not help. In this regard, there is no need to talk about evening privacy while watching a film. Another drawback is that for the full development of the potential of the device, the use of special equipment is required, in particular an amplifier and Hi-Fi equipment.

conclusions

Summing up, one cannot fail to mention the cost. The price of headphones in domestic stores starts at 12 thousand rubles. In general, the model can be called very successful and of high quality, because a lot of effort was spent on its creation.

The need to additionally purchase auxiliary equipment, as recommended by the manufacturing company, is undoubtedly a big disadvantage and scares off many buyers. This is not surprising, because if a person wants to listen to his favorite music, good headphones should be enough for this. Be that as it may, even without improvements, the model provides high quality sound, which in combination with an attractive design and comfortable construction cannot leave indifferent any music lover. All this makes headphones very popular in our country.

In 2012, Philips launched the Fidelio X1, the flagship model with an open acoustic design. For its sound signature, build quality and high value for money, the model received many accolades - both from the specialized press and from ordinary consumers. In many ways, with this model, Philips has been stepping on the heels of well-known audiophile brands with their more expensive Hi-End headphones. Philips recently launched a new top model - the Fidelio X2. What has changed in the new product and did Philips engineers manage to fix the minor bugs of the Fidelio X1? Answers in our review.

Design and construction

At first glance, the design of the X1 and X2 does not differ from each other - they are full-size open-back headphones made of premium materials. But while the X1's design had brown and silver accents, the X2 went completely black. Most of the headphone construction is made of metal (brushed aluminum), which gives them a robust and solid appearance. Looking at the specs, you can see that the weight has been reduced from 430 grams for the X1 to 380 grams for the X2. This, of course, has a positive effect on long-term listening comfort.

Sound

New Layered Motion Control (LMC) drivers have been prepared for the Philips flagship. The diameter of the diaphragm remained the same (50 mm), but now it is composite: it consists of several layers of polymer with a damping gel interlayer. This solution equalizes the frequency response in the region of medium and high frequencies. The drivers are angled to the ear canal (15 °) to suppress reflections from the inner ear and enhance the stereo image.

Typically, open-back headphones have a more natural sounding experience with a wider soundstage. The price paid for this is sound leakage to the outside and - often - "weak" response in the low frequency region. However, Philips has managed to achieve a warm and rich sound with powerful bass already in the Fidelio X1. In the new flagship, these qualities are not only preserved, but also improved.

The improvement in the sound of the Fidelio X2 versus the X1 is obvious. Headphones are noticeably better at handling voices, wind instruments, cymbals, and subtle nuances in the high frequency range. The bass is booming and full-bodied, but it has become more balanced, better controlled. The sound signature of the Fidelio X2 and X1 is similar, but the new flagship sounds more mature. The response across the entire frequency range is smoother, which will certainly appeal to audiophiles and personal audio enthusiasts. Music is played more pleasantly and naturally, but still fun, without monitor dryness.

For many years, Philips has been pleasing a wide layer of music lovers of all stripes with its relatively good headphones... Their lists include a wide variety of modifications: overhead, in-channel, wireless, with a noise reduction function, sharpened for Apple technology, created for Android users and other citizens. However, digging deeper and trying to pick out some significant releases, far from the serial "stamping", it will be difficult to find full-fledged releases. The first to come to mind is the Fidelio X1, which hasn't been updated for several years. Headphones for a number of criteria have become one of the best in the "budget" segment. Having shown good sales figures, which for companies is synonymous with success, the engineers of the Dutch workshop refurbished the headphones a couple of years ago with the release of the Philips Fidelio X2 model. What are they key features? - let's-understand. Specifications for Philips Fidelio X2 Key features Suitable for: universal Headphone type: oversized Connection: wired Design Color: Black Series: Fidelio Storage case: no Sound Frequency range: 5 - 40,000 Hz Maximum input power: 500 mW Sensitivity: 100 dB at 1 mW Emitter diameter: 50 mm Resistance: 30 Ohm Connections Cable type: detachable oxygen-free cable Cable length: 3 m Connector: 3.5 mm and 6.3 mm Connector plating: Gold-plated Dimensions and warranty Unit weight: 0.9 kg Warranty: Exchange or return within 28 days. Country of origin: China The most famous brand is positioning updated version the aging flagship Philips Fidelio X2 as a worthy successor of the Fidelio X family. And you know what, they don't cheat. It is not uncommon for a subsequent update to be an order of magnitude less interesting than its predecessor. In our case, this cannot be said. There are more than enough positive improvements in sound-emitting accessories. Headphone Package The first thing to do is go over what you are purchasing. After making a payment and receiving the coveted box, inside you will find a detachable cable three meters long. The length from the part is universal. It is enough for both home use, and with the help of everyday tricks in the form of an "elastic", you can shorten it, making the cord suitable for everyday use. The cable itself is made from the popular acid-free copper. On top of it is a "sandwich" of silicone wrapping, hidden under the fabric braid. At the opposite end, a standard 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack flaunts. I said about home use for a reason. The set for the headphones includes an adapter for a standard jack, which allows you to connect headphones to stationary amplifiers. There is no point in mentioning documentation and other waste paper. But the lack of a cover is a minus. But in general, not critical. The design of the Fidelio X2 The visual appearance is partly deceiving. Looking at the open configuration of the headset, many immediately exclude the possibility of using the device in public places. Yes, you are probably right, but if you spend some time looking for information, you will be surprised by the abundance of upgrades to this model. In particular, we are talking about changing the configuration to a closed type with absolutely insignificant losses in sound volume. But more on that later. Visually, the headphones are very, very similar to the formed Fidelio line. This means a lot of common similarities when working out a design. The headband is equipped with an unusual fit adjuster. The two-stage design allows you to literally fit the ears for both small and voluminous heads. The material is attributed to "eco", that is, the skin is unlikely to be found. At first glance, the overall design seems flimsy, but in fact it is a snag. In production…

Philips Fidelio X2 headphone review: the Dutch flagship of times gone by

Ivan Vinogradov

Philips Fidelio X2

Philips Fidelio X2 is a great value for money.

User Rating: 4.09 (7 votes) 0

For many years, the company has been pleasing a wide layer of music lovers of all stripes with its relatively good headphones. Their lists include a wide variety of modifications: overhead, in-channel, wireless, with a noise reduction function, sharpened for equipment Apple created under Android-zvers and other citizens. However, digging deeper and trying to pick out some significant releases, far from the serial "stamping", it will be difficult to find full-fledged releases. The model that comes to mind first Fidelio X1 which has not been updated for several years. Headphones for a number of criteria have become one of the best in the "budget" segment. Having demonstrated good sales figures, which for companies is synonymous with success, the engineers of the Dutch workshop refurbished the headphones a couple of years ago, releasing a model Philips Fidelio X2... What are their key features? - let's-understand.

Specifications for Philips Fidelio X2

Main characteristics

Suitable for: universal
Headphone type: full-size
Connection: wired

Design

Colour: Black
Series: Fidelio
Storage pouch: No

Sound

Frequency range: 5 - 40,000 Hz
Maximum input power: 500 mW
Sensitivity: 100dB @ 1mW
Emitter diameter: 50 mm
Resistance: 30 ohm

Connections

Cable type: detachable oxygen-free cable
Length of cable: 3m
Connector: 3.5mm and 6.3mm
Connector plating: Gold Plated
Dimensions and warranty
Device weight: 0.9 kg
Guarantee: Exchange or refund within 28 days.
Country of Origin: China

The most famous brand is positioning an updated version of the outdated flagship Philips Fidelio X2 in the role of a worthy successor of the family "Fidelio X"... And you know what, they don't cheat. It is not uncommon for a subsequent update to be an order of magnitude less interesting than its predecessor. In our case, this cannot be said. There are more than enough positive improvements in sound-emitting accessories.

Headphone delivery set

The first thing to do is go over what you are getting. After making a payment and receiving the coveted box, inside you will find a detachable cable three meters long. The length from the part is universal. It is enough for both home use, and with the help of everyday tricks in the form of an "elastic", you can shorten it, making the cord suitable for everyday use. The cable itself is made from the popular acid-free copper. On top of it is a "sandwich" of silicone wrapping, hidden under the fabric braid. At the opposite end there is a standard 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack. I said about home use for a reason. Included with the headphones is an adapter for a standard jack, which allows you to connect headphones to stationary amplifiers. There is no point in mentioning documentation and other waste paper. But the lack of a cover is a minus. But in general, not critical.

Fidelio X2 design

The visual appearance is partly deceiving. Looking at the open configuration of the headset, many immediately exclude the possibility of using the device in public places. Yes, you are probably right, but if you spend some time looking for information, you will be surprised by the abundance of upgrades to this model. In particular, we are talking about changing the configuration to a closed type with absolutely insignificant losses in sound volume. But more on that later. Visually, the headphones are very, very similar to the formed Fidelio line. This means a lot of common similarities when working out a design. The headband is equipped with an unusual fit adjuster. The two-stage design allows you to literally fit the "ears" for both small and voluminous heads. The material is attributed to "eco", that is, the skin is unlikely to be found. At first glance, the overall design seems flimsy, but in fact it is a snag. In the production of the model, high-quality plastic and metal are used. In particular, pay attention to the extraordinary retainer of the cups, which allows them to rotate along the vertical axis.

The cups themselves are enclosed on the outside by a massive protective mesh with large cells. This gesture, as it were, hints - you can't do without cleaning. So get ready to spend time putting your ears in order every few months. Massive ear cushions in velor finish are laid from the inside. The memory effect is present. The cut between the sides is large and can accommodate the "ears of small elephants." The cable connects to the bottom right cup. In general, there are no inconveniences with the “home” union.

Ease of use of headphones

I will repeat myself. The ear cushions are large in size and deep, so they will cover the ears of almost any size. They are sewn from velor, which heats up a little when listening to audio tracks for a long time. But in general, after a couple of hours of active use without interruption, I did not feel any discomfort. Leaving them on the table, he opened the window and went to have dinner. When I returned, I realized that velor ear pads are the best dust collector. The absence of a protective case-bag reminded of itself again. How missed it! Putting the headphones in his work case, he headed out into the street.

Noise isolation of this model leaves much to be desired. Here it is worth recalling positioning again. Philips Fidelio X2 are intended more for home use, but physically no one can prohibit you from using them on the street. True, you will quickly change your mind to please others with your favorite music. An additional demotivator is the missing "mobile capabilities".

No short headset cables included for platform gadgets , iOS... A three-meter black cable in a fabric braid makes it clear that you will not go far with it, when you walk it rubs against your clothes. The fabric braid gives a good microphone effect and loud sound.

The dimensions of the headphones are large, folding is not provided, so you will need a backpack or bag for transportation. The open-type acoustic design will not allow you to abstract yourself from the world around you, so you won't be able to listen to them, for example, on the subway. They let the surrounding sounds inside, all the music being played is perfectly audible outside.

A great option for the home, but they are unlikely to come up with another use case.

Sound from Fidelio X2

Trying to characterize the sound for the first time Philips Fidelio X2, comes the thought of its softness and enveloping effect. The creators had a clear idea of the ideal sound and tried to recreate it in this device.

They say differently about this model, some believe that the sound is too dark, the bass is dominant, and the top is too low. Others, on the contrary, speak of a lack of bass and an overabundance of treble. These two opposing opinions have a rationale. The Fidelio X2 clearly has a raised, velvety mid-bass. Against the background of it, there is practically no lower bass, which is compensated by the abundance of the lower mids. Therefore, the lack of bass in Philips Fidelio X2 definitely not, on the contrary, while listening to songs where bass prevails, the headphones vibrate and tickle your ears a little.

To neutralize bass and make the sound clear and airy, the creators slightly raised the top to them - in the region of 10 kHz. The sound turns out to be warm, plentiful, but at the same time pleases with airiness. The upper mids are muted, and together with the powerful bass it delivers a smooth sound. Due to the lack of sonorous notes in these headphones, the violin can be confused with the cello, there is no emotion in the vocals, and the guitar sounds a little distant. But for listening to music as background X2 fit perfectly. They help to concentrate, do not distract from other activities. On tracks overloaded with bass, the device will sound "cottony", "bubnezh" will appear. Due to the open acoustic design, the sound is much wider than in closed headphones of similar characteristics.

Drawing conclusions about headphones

Philips Fidelio X2 will be a profitable purchase that matches its value. But it all depends on your device requirements. Decide if you need an open-type acoustic design. Please note that not everyone can appreciate soft sound, weak side which becomes obvious unformed audio images.

Model Fidelio X2 turned out home, like room slippers. The headphones fit comfortably on the head, the sound is soft. Ideal to sit at home in an easy chair by the burning fireplace, think sublime and enjoy your favorite compositions.

Advantages:

Warm wide sound
Ergonomic fit
Air sound
Even after long-term listening, hearing does not get tired
Abundant bass

disadvantages:

Due to the acoustic design of the open type, it is inconvenient to use headphones in public places, so they go as an exclusively home option.
Minimum equipment
The detail is not at the highest level
There is practically no low bass, but it is compensated by the powerful mid-bass
There is blurry and unclear sound

Philips Fidelio X2 is a great value for money.