Abyss JOAL Performance Headphone Review

Abyss has long held a prestigious reputation in the audiophile community for crafting exceptional high-end headphones that balance innovative design with sonic excellence. Their latest offering, the JOAL: Jack of All Listening, aims to push the boundaries of planar magnetic headphone performance. Combining cutting-edge engineering with Abyss’ signature style, the JOAL promises uncompromising detail retrieval, authoritative bass response, and an immersive spatial presentation. Having spent considerable time evaluating the JOAL, I am ready to share a comprehensive breakdown covering unboxing impressions, design, technical specifications, and a meticulous listening analysis.

What Comes In The Box

The Abyss JOAL arrives in premium packaging that underscores its status as a top-tier product. Inside the box, you will find:

• ABYSS JOAL High Performance Headphone
• ABYSS JOAL Pillow Top Ultrasuede Ear Pads (pre-attached)
• ABYSS JOAL Black Protective Shell Case with Velvet Interior
• ABYSS JOAL 2-meter (6.6 ft) Premium 16-Core Super Soft Cable with 4.4mm Balanced Termination
• Quick Start Instruction Card

Every component feels meticulously crafted, from the ultrasuede ear pads to the robust yet flexible cable. This initial presentation sets the stage for what is ultimately a refined listening experience.

Design and Build Quality

Drawing from the iconic design language seen in the Diana DZ and Diana MR models, the JOAL continues Abyss’ tradition of blending industrial elegance with comfort. The earcups feature a distinctive wavy pattern in a matte black finish, subtle yet striking under varied lighting conditions. The CNC-machined aluminum frame contributes to the headphone’s featherlight feel, weighing just 327 grams without ear pads and 390 grams with them attached.

The fit is secure yet forgiving. A moderate clamping force prevents slippage without inducing fatigue during extended sessions. The adjustable headband and plush ear pads distribute weight evenly, making multi-hour listening marathons comfortable. This fusion of ergonomics and aesthetics exemplifies Abyss’ attention to detail.

Technical Specifications

• Drivers: Custom Abyss JOAL 63mm Planar Magnetic Transducers
• Impedance: 30Ω
• Sensitivity: 93dB/mW
• Frequency Response: 5Hz – 55kHz
• Distortion: 0.03% THD (average)
• Weight: 327g (without pads), 390g (with pads)

Listening Review

Soundstage and Imaging

The JOAL delivers a holographic soundstage that transcends the limitations of traditional headphone listening. Instrument separation is pristine, with clear spatial cues allowing each element to occupy its distinct position. The imaging precision is exceptional, making it easy to pinpoint nuances in complex arrangements. Tracks unfold with a natural width and depth, offering an expansive yet cohesive sonic landscape.

Low Frequencies

Bass performance is authoritative yet refined. Sub-bass extension reaches deep into the 5Hz range, providing visceral rumble without overshadowing other frequencies. Mid-bass is tight and articulate, avoiding the bloated resonance often found in lesser headphones. The JOAL excels in conveying bass texture, allowing listeners to distinguish between electronic sub-bass and the organic resonance of an upright bass.

Midrange Frequencies

Vocals and instruments flourish in the midrange, rendered with an organic warmth and micro-detail retrieval that rivals electrostatic drivers. The timbral accuracy is outstanding, with every pluck of a guitar string or breath between vocal phrases captured with lifelike precision. Layering is masterful—even densely orchestrated passages retain clarity, preventing elements from bleeding into each other.

High Frequencies

Treble reproduction is airy and extended, reaching into the uppermost octaves with finesse. Initially, the highs may appear slightly subdued, but adequate amplification reveals their brilliance. Cymbal crashes shimmer naturally, while violin overtones soar without sibilance. The treble imparts a sense of openness, enriching orchestral works and ambient recordings with ethereal sparkle.

Power Requirements and Pairing

With an impedance of 30Ω and sensitivity rated at 93dB/mW, the JOAL benefits from quality amplification. Portable players with robust balanced outputs can drive it adequately, but desktop setups unlock its full dynamic range and transient response. Pairing it with a high-current Class A amplifier or hybrid tube amp enhances tonal richness and spatial articulation. 

During my listening, I used two amplifiers: the Chord MOJO 2 and the Hifiman Goldenwave Serenade V2. I found that the MOJO 2 had to be raised to nearly its max volume to get a good sound out of it, and I feared the sound would distort if it reached any higher. However, the Goldenwave Serenade was much better at giving plenty of power to drive and reach a high volume without distortion. 

Final Thoughts

The Abyss JOAL is a triumph in planar magnetic headphone design, catering to discerning listeners who demand both technical precision and musicality. It excels across genres, from bass-heavy electronic music to delicate classical pieces, truly living up to its moniker as the Jack of All Listening. Its refined aesthetics, luxurious comfort, and reference-level sound quality position it as a benchmark product in the high-end headphone landscape. Though a bit hard to drive at first, finding the right amplification pairing definitely pays off. 

For audiophiles seeking an endgame headphone capable of revealing the finest details in their favorite recordings, the Abyss JOAL is an investment that delivers auditory bliss.

The Abyss JOAL is available today at Audio46.