As an audiophile and headphone enthusiast, I've had the pleasure of testing and admiring some of the most beautiful wooden headphones on the market. In this article, I'll share my thoughts on eight stunning wooden headphones that not only look great but also deliver impressive sound quality. Let's dive into these wooden wonders that combine aesthetics with audio excellence.

Audio Technica ATH-WB LTD

The Audio Technica ATH-WB LTD is a true work of art, utilizing three different kinds of wood in its construction. To me, I was particularly impressed by the highly flamed maple, which features natural variations that ensure every pair is unique. This exclusivity adds to the appeal of these limited edition headphones.

Sound-wise, these headphones boast an extra bassy signature that bass enthusiasts will appreciate. The low-end is rich and impactful, providing a satisfying thump for genres like hip-hop and electronic music. They’re not the most mid-focused headphones so they may not sound perfect to you.

If you can't get your hands on these limited edition beauties, the ATH-AWAS offers a nearly identical sound profile, though it won't match the unique look of the WB LTD. The WB LTD's craftsmanship is truly exceptional, with seamless integration of the different wood types creating a visually striking aesthetic.

Meze Liric II

The Meze Liric stands out with its great V-shaped sound signature, leaning towards brightness. This sound profile offers punchy bass and crisp highs, making it versatile for various music genres. The slight brightness adds a touch of sparkle to the treble, enhancing detail retrieval without becoming fatiguing.

However, what truly sets these headphones apart is their comfort. In my opinion, based on extensive testing, the Liric is possibly the most comfortable headphone on the market. The ear cups are generously padded and the headband distributes weight evenly, allowing for hours of fatigue-free listening.

Meze, despite being a relatively new company, has quickly established a reputation for quality design and excellent quality control. This attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the Liric, from its stunning wooden elements to its overall build quality. The wood used in the Liric not only looks beautiful but also contributes to its natural sound characteristics. It’s fantastic seeing 

Fostex TH909/TH900

Fostex offers two flagship models - the open-back TH909 and the closed-back TH900. Both utilize rare Japanese woods processed with artisan techniques, resulting in visually striking headphones. The wood used is not just for show; it contributes to the headphones' acoustic properties, enhancing their unique sound signatures.

In my testing, I found both models to have a V-shaped sound signature with a heavy preference for bass. The low-end is deep and impactful, providing a visceral listening experience for bass-heavy music. Despite this bass emphasis, the mids and highs remain clear and detailed, though slightly recessed compared to the low end.

ZMF Verite

The ZMF Verite features a beautiful burl design that immediately catches the eye. The intricate patterns in the wood make both the open and closed backs unique, adding to their appeal for collectors and audio enthusiasts alike. These headphones offer an ultra-premium experience with a luxurious sound signature to match their looks.

In my testing, I found the Verite to have a balanced and refined sound. The bass is deep and controlled, the mids are rich and detailed, and the highs are crisp without being harsh. This balanced signature makes the Verite versatile across various music genres.

Despite weighing 500g, I found them supremely comfortable during long listening sessions, thanks to their well-designed headband. The weight distribution is excellent, preventing any hotspots or discomfort even after hours of use.

One unique aspect of ZMF is their summer "hot cup" releases, which offer the chance to own a unique, small-batch pair of headphones. These limited runs often feature exotic woods or special finishes. However, be prepared for potential wait times, as these headphones can be difficult to get due to their popularity and small-batch nature.

Sivga Luan

At $300, the Sivga Luan offers a budget-friendly option in the world of wooden headphones. Don't let the lower price fool you - these headphones punch well above their weight in both looks and sound quality.

In my testing, I was impressed by its excellent neutral sound signature with a slight brightness adjustment. The treble boost is so subtle that it never becomes sibilant, resulting in excellent clarity. This sound signature makes the Luan a great choice for those who prefer a more accurate, less colored representation of their music. These would be an excellent tool in a studio setting, or a perfect budget headphone that's not too hard to drive.

The Luan also features supremely soft earpads, which I found incredibly comfortable. The plush padding conforms well to the shape of your ears, providing excellent isolation. However, only time will tell how well these will hold up over extended use.

Visually, the Luan showcases Sivga's attention to detail. The wood driver housings are beautifully finished, highlighting the natural grain patterns. The metal parts are well-crafted, creating a harmonious blend of materials that belies the headphones' affordable price point.

Meze 99 Classic

While I hesitated to include two Meze headphones on this list, the 99's excellent styling made it impossible to ignore. These headphones feature a bright-leaning V-shaped sound signature that's easy to listen to. The bass is punchy without being overwhelming, the mids are slightly recessed but still clear, and the highs are crisp and detailed.

At $309, the Meze 99 offers fantastic looks with its sustainably sourced walnut wood. The use of sustainable materials adds an eco-friendly aspect to these headphones, which may appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

In my testing, I was shocked by the large soundstage, which is impressive for both the price point and the fact that these are closed-back headphones. The spacious sound presentation adds depth and dimensionality to your music, creating an immersive listening experience.

The build quality of the Meze 99 is exceptional for its price range. The wood cans are beautifully finished, and the metal parts feel solid and well-made. The overall design strikes a perfect balance between elegance and durability.

Grado GS3000X

The Grado GS3000X follows the classic Grado design but elevates the styling to new heights. The open-back design not only contributes to its sound characteristics but also showcases the beautiful wood used in its construction.

In my testing, I was impressed by its elegant, holographic soundstage that adds depth to the listening experience. The open-back design allows for a wide, airy presentation that makes you feel like you're in the room with the musicians. The imaging is precise, allowing you to easily locate different instruments in the soundstage.

The GS3000X features an excellent cocobolo open-back design. Cocobolo is known for its beautiful color variations and grain patterns, making each pair of GS3000X visually unique. The combination of wooden and metal elements in its construction truly makes it a statement piece, living up to Grado's description.

Sound-wise, the GS3000X offers the classic Grado house sound - detailed, energetic, and slightly bright. The bass is tight and subdued, the mids are forward and expressive, and the highs are extended and revealing. This sound signature is particularly well-suited for genres like rock, jazz, and classical music.

Conclusion

These eight wooden headphones represent some of the best-looking options on the market, each with its unique style and sound signature. From the limited edition Audio Technica ATH-WB LTD to the classic design of the Grado GS3000X, there's a wooden headphone to suit every taste and budget.

In my testing, I found that these headphones not only deliver in terms of aesthetics but also offer impressive sound quality. The use of wood in headphone construction isn't just about looks - it can contribute to the warm, natural sound that many audiophiles crave. Some swear that each type of wood used has its own acoustic properties, subtly shaping the sound characteristics of the headphones. I’m personally not sold on how much of an impact different “tone-woods” have, but it’s undoubtedly able to elevate the looks of the headphones.

The Audio Technica ATH-WB LTD and Fostex models cater to bass lovers, while the Meze Liric and Sivga Luan offer more balanced sound signatures. The ZMF Verite and Grado GS3000X provide premium experiences for those willing to invest more, while the Meze 99 and Luan offer great value for its price point.

It's worth noting that wooden headphones often require more careful handling and maintenance compared to their plastic or metal counterparts. Wood is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, which can affect both the appearance and sound of the headphones over time. However, for many enthusiasts, the unique look and sound characteristics of wooden headphones make this extra care worthwhile.

Whether you're an audiophile looking for the perfect blend of form and function, or simply someone who appreciates the natural beauty of wood, these headphones offer something special. They prove that high-fidelity audio can be as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the ears.

Remember, while looks are important, the best headphones are ultimately the ones that sound good to you. If possible, try to audition these models before making a purchase. After all, personal preference plays a huge role in both audio appreciation and aesthetic appeal. What sounds fantastic to one person might not suit another's tastes, and the same goes for visual design.

In the end, these wooden headphones represent the perfect marriage of art and technology, offering a feast for both the eyes and ears. They showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating high-end audio equipment. Whether you choose the limited edition allure of the Audio Technica, the comfort of the Meze Liric, or the classic style of the Grado, you're sure to have a pair of headphones that stand out from the crowd.

Owning a pair of wooden headphones is not just about having a great audio device; it's about possessing a piece of functional art. These headphones can become conversation starters, cherished possessions that bring joy not just through their sound, but also through their visual and tactile qualities. They remind us that in a world of mass-produced plastic gadgets, there's still room for products that celebrate natural materials and artisanal craftsmanship.

So, whether you're a seasoned audiophile or someone just starting to explore the world of high-quality headphones, consider giving wooden headphones a try. You might find that they offer a listening experience that's as unique and organic as the material they're made from.