Final Audio D8000 Pro Limited Collector's Edition Review

Audiophiles are undoubtedly familiar with the famous, Final Audio D8000. And though the brand has tweaked this model with respect to tuning and design over the years, the fundamental sound has remained the same. Now, the Company has come up with a Limited Collector’s Edition of the acclaimed D800 Pro. What can we expect in terms of design, resolution, tuning and soundstage?

In the Box

• D8000 Pro Limited Edition headphones

• XLR 4-Pin Silver-Coated Cable 3.0m

• 4.4mm TRRRS OFC Cable 1.5m

• Briefcase-Style Hard Carrying Case with TSA Lock

Look and Feel

Unless you have the silver version, you may not notice any difference between the original look of the D8000 Pro and that of the Limited Collector’s Edition. The ear pads, as well as the ear cup structure are the same as the original version. But geeky audiophile eyes may notice the Alumnite-black headband, as well as the change to a matte-black housing finish. The whole vibe is slightly more Batman-like.

Design

Again, the Limited Edition doesn’t stray too far from the original in this category. Final Audio employs the same AFDS (Air Film Damping System) driver. The impedance remains the same, at 60 Ohms, making the D8000 Pro Limited Collector’s Edition still very easy to drive. Sensitivity also hasn’t changed. However, one notable difference is the transition to a gold plated inner meshed plate, to which Focal attributes the changes in sound quality. In addition, the D8000 Pro Limited Collector’s Edition comes with an XLR 4-pin silver-coated cable, as well as a 4.4mm (balanced) OFC cable. For this review, I kept things simple and stuck with the 4.4mm. 

Sound Impressions

Soundstage

If there’s any reason to drop almost 5K on a pair of headphones, it would be this soundstage. I would recommend against popping any LCD before this listening experience. It’s too holographic for intoxicated minds. In all seriousness, one rarely hears this level of imaging accuracy in a headphone, even in this echelon. The first track I played, Daft Punk’s “Lose Yourself to Dance” was bursting with dimension. The placement along the vertical axis was so utterly precise with gradations in height so clearly defined. The width and depth is just as impressive, and anything from Pink Floyd’s “Money” to The Beatles’ remixed “Glass Onion” will make you feel entirely folded into the mix. Of course, any headphone that reveals incredible separation will present a superior soundstage, and it’s undoubtedly the case here as well. But don’t expect tons of airiness. This is pretty dense sound that exudes more solidity than buoyancy. 

Low-End

The low-end reveals a somewhat neutral sounding bass, though not at all stingy. And although it may not smack you in the face with forwardness, the speed and grip often makes for a fun pop listening experience. Still, those who love an especially impactful kick drum might be left wanting more. And don’t expect visceral subs. But overall, I think unless you were hoping for a particularly generous low-end, you’ll be probably satisfied with the level of presence here. Of course, where the D8000 really shines is in its transparency. Double basses, fro example, are a delight to listen to, with every nuance in timbre being conveyed in an utterly natural way. So, already, my tastes lean towards folk, jazz and classical when listening to these cans.

Mids

You’ll hear a fair balance between the low and high mids. There’s a little warmth, but the D8000 Pro Limited doesn’t scream lush and meaty in this range. As in the lows, one may feel hungry for more impact when it comes to drums and rhythms guitars. Instead, the attack feels a bit more tempered. That being said the moderate level of punch is balanced with the liveliness of the soundstage. So it still feels energetic for the most part. And again, where the mids really shine is in the expression of acoustic instruments, such guitars. The highly natural color and incredible level of definition makes it an thoroughly absorbing listen. 

Highs

While I didn’t run into any uncomfortable extension in this range, the high treble was far from lacking. So, Final seems to have hit a nice balance here. But listening to vocals in the highs, one may again notice the density of the sound. Vocals feel less breathy, airy or even velvety than they do controlled and resolute. So, at times, the D8000 may slightly lack the charisma that one looks for in a more expressive or musical headphone. But there’s no question that the precision and transparency is there. 

Summary

The D8000, regardless of whether its a collector’s edition or not, is a one-of-a-kind headphone that certainly warrants the accolades it has received in recent years. You may hear some minor changes in tuning from the original Pro version, but the basic elements remain exactly the same. A truly immersive soundstage meets extraordinary detail, speed and control. And though these headphones may not be the most versatile choice, they are still highly enjoyable no matter what track you play. And to be sure, if you’re a fan of acoustic music, you’ll be hard pressed to find a headphone that stays truer to the instrument. If you already own a D8000 Pro, this collector's model may not be worth the extra wad of cash. But if you’re thinking of buying your first pair, the D8000 Pro Limited Collector’s Edition will certainly add to the envy of your audiophile friends. 

You can pick up the D8000 Pro Limited Collector’s Edition at Audio 46