Design and Build Quality

The moment I laid eyes on the TH1100RP, I knew I was in for something special. Fostex has crafted these headphones with meticulous attention to detail, using premium materials that not only look stunning but also contribute to their exceptional performance.

At the heart of the TH1100RP lies the RP Planar driver, a technology that Fostex has been perfecting since its inception in 1974. This driver is the result of decades of refinement, and it shows in the audio quality these headphones deliver.

One of the first things I noticed when handling the TH1100RP was its surprisingly light weight. Fostex has employed magnesium mechanical parts to keep the weight down to around 420 grams. This thoughtful design choice makes a significant difference in comfort during extended listening sessions.

The earcups are a work of art in themselves. Crafted from maple wood and dyed using the traditional Awa Aizome indigo dyeing technique, they exude a sense of craftsmanship that's rarely seen in modern audio equipment. In person, the color appears darker than in photos, but the finish is absolutely striking. While aesthetics are subjective, I find the TH1100RP to be an incredibly attractive headphone.

Comfort is paramount for any flagship headphone, and Fostex has nailed it with the TH1100RP. The premium leather headband and ultra-soft leather earpads are a joy to wear. I found myself able to listen for hours without any discomfort. The earpads, in particular, are among the softest stock earpads I've encountered in recent memory. They provide an excellent seal without applying excessive clamping force, striking the perfect balance between isolation and comfort.

Sound Quality

Now, let's dive into what really matters: the sound. The Fostex TH1100RP delivers an audio experience that lives up to its flagship status.

Soundstage and Imaging

The soundstage of the TH1100RP is impressive, especially considering its warm overall signature. While it may not match the analytical width of something like the HD800s, the spaciousness is still remarkable. What truly stands out is the imaging capability of these headphones. They create a holographic sound that places instruments and vocals with pinpoint accuracy.

To test this, I listened to "Alison" by Slowdive, a track known for its spacey, reverb-heavy soundscape. The TH1100RP reproduced the song's characteristic "soft focus" effect beautifully, maintaining clarity in the vocals and instruments despite the wet, heavily processed sound. The wide guitars and reverb-drenched voices were presented with excellent definition, showcasing the headphone's ability to handle complex, layered recordings.

Bass Response

Fostex headphones are often praised for their bass performance, and the TH1100RP continues this tradition with aplomb. The low-end response is fantastic, with a sub-bass extension that surpasses many other open-back headphones in this price range.

There's a generous amount of mid-bass and high bass, which contributes to the overall warm character of the headphones. While they can deliver punchy bass when the volume is turned up, I wouldn't describe them as overwhelmingly sub-bass heavy. Instead, the bass is well-balanced, providing warmth without dominating the mix.

To really put the bass through its paces, I listened to "Frantic Disembowelment" by Cannibal Corpse. The TH1100RP handled the track's intense, saturated guitar tones with impressive clarity, maintaining the booming character while allowing more detail to shine through than I'm used to hearing on most headphones.

For bass enthusiasts looking for a refined listening experience that doesn't sacrifice low-end impact, the TH1100RP is an excellent choice. It reminded me of an LCD-2, but with improved clarity and a similar expansive soundstage.

Midrange Performance

The midrange of the TH1100RP is where things get really interesting. There's a wonderful sweetness and body to the mids that gives vocals and instruments a lifelike presence. While there is a slight V-shaped character to the overall frequency response, it's more pleasant than dramatic, allowing the midrange to remain focused and clear.

Vocal reproduction is particularly impressive. Male vocals have a satisfying growl when the music calls for it, while female vocals retain their definition and sweetness. The transients in the midrange are fast, contributing to an incredibly clean sound.

I tested the midrange capabilities with "Scrapple from the Apple" performed by Sonny Connie Kay, Richard Davis, John Lewis, Jim Hall, and Sonny Stitt. The alto saxophone's glassy character was beautifully rendered, with the added warmth of the TH1100RP complementing the instrument's tone perfectly.

For a different vocal test, I turned to "Sposa Son Disprezzata" performed by Cecilia Bartoli and György Fischer. The TH1100RP's dynamic capabilities definitely shines here, capturing the nuances of Bartoli's powerful performance with remarkable clarity. The headphones struck an excellent balance between sweetness and body in the alto range.

High-Frequency Performance

The high-frequency response of the TH1100RP adds a touch of airiness to the overall sound signature without ever becoming harsh or fatiguing. There's just enough sparkle to bring out the shine in cymbals, add presence to bright vocals, and reveal subtle details in complex mixes.

To really test the treble performance, I listened to "Human Murmuration" by Archspire, a track known for its sharp, detailed mix. The TH1100RP handled the track's intensity with grace, presenting the intricate guitar work and cymbal hits with clarity while maintaining a perfect balance of mid-range fullness and high-end detail.

One of the most impressive aspects of the TH1100RP's high-frequency performance is its lack of sibilance. After a long rehearsal session the previous day, high-gain amps left my ears feeling sensitive. I was still able to listen to the TH1100RP for hours without any discomfort. This speaks volumes about the headphone's refined treble response considering I’m fairly sensitive to highs.

Improvements and Comparisons

It's worth noting that Fostex has made several improvements since the release of the TH-808 six months ago. While the internal components remain unchanged, the fit, headband, and cable have all seen upgrades. The cable, in particular, feels more durable and of higher quality overall. It's less stiff than the previous cloth-wrapped cable and is truly worthy of a flagship headphone.

When comparing the TH1100RP to other headphones in its class, I find it strikes a unique balance. It offers the warmth and engaging bass response that Fostex is known for, but with improved clarity and a more refined overall presentation. If you're unfamiliar with the Fostex house sound, imagine an LCD-2 with enhanced clarity and a similar expansive soundstage.

Conclusion

The Fostex TH1100RP is a triumph of audio engineering and craftsmanship. It successfully combines the warmth and engaging character that Fostex headphones are known for with a level of refinement and detail that puts it squarely in flagship territory.

From its stunning design and premium build quality to its expansive soundstage, punchy yet controlled bass, sweet midrange, and well-balanced treble, the TH1100RP excels in every aspect. It's a headphone that can handle any genre clearly, revealing new details in familiar tracks while never becoming fatiguing.

At $2,699.99, the TH1100RP represents a significant investment. However, for those seeking a flagship open-back headphone that offers a unique blend of warmth, detail, and comfort, it's a compelling and reasonable option considering the prices of Meze Empyrean II’s, LCD-5’s and so on. Fostex has created a headphone that not only sounds exceptional but is also a joy to wear for extended listening sessions. 

Whether you're a longtime audio enthusiast or someone looking to make their first foray into the world of high-end headphones, the Fostex TH1100RP deserves a serious audition. It's a headphone that reminds us why we fall in love with music in the first place, inviting us to rediscover our favorite tracks and explore new ones with fresh ears.

In the crowded field of flagship headphones, the Fostex TH1100RP stands out as a true audiophile's delight. It's not just a headphone; it's an experience – one that I believe will satisfy even the most discerning listeners for years to come.