Pioneer HDJ-2000

Headphones tend to be a neglected area when it comes to reviewing the latest and greatest equipment. That being said, I thought it would be appropriate to review Pioneer's greatest (perhaps maybe not the latest, anymore) offering in the headphone lineup: the HDJ-2000

Designed and marketed as the flagship model of headphones from pioneer, these cans have the specs to back it up. The large 50mm drivers with high-flux magnets deliver deep, rich bass and crisp highs. The quality build of the HDJ-2000's drivers can be seen in their wide frequency response 5Hz - 35,000Hz (compare that to the next step down in Pioneer's HDJ-1000, which has a frequency response of 5Hz - 30,000Hz). That translates to: easy to pick out those kick drums on the down beat & those out high hats and snares. Listening for those separate elements in the sound stage doesn't take much effort for the listener. Distortion is non-existent even in the most demanding DJ environments due to the high amount of power these can take. With a 3,500 mW maximum power input, needless to say these are made to handle most any rig you hook them up to. Use of an XLR connection & gold plated connectors is a testament to the sound quality these are designed to deliver. 

It seems with DJ headphones that to get excellent sound and isolation, you have to sacrifice form factor and comfort. Not so much the case with these. The HDJ-2000's sleek, simple lines and application of premium materials keep you looking good in the booth. The use of magnesium alloy around the hinges maintains a high level of durability and keeps you from feeling weighed down. The finish on the metal has a handsome look to it - polished instead bling. The only shiny stuff on these is the aluminum around the ear cup. Heat-sensitive memory foam  and synthetic protein-leather compose the ear cups. Needless to say these things are pretty damn comfortable, even after a few hours of listening / playing out. The headband is flexible but incredibly durable. 

Also, worth mentioning is that these are fairly easy to carry around with you because of their fold up design. The ear cups are also capable of a 90 degree swivel, for all u DJs that do the headphones on one shoulder thing. These things are built to last. I know that I've put them through punishment that would've snapped the stems on a cheaper headphone.

Pros:

+ Exceptional sound fidelity

+ Comfort and lightweight

+ Thoughtful design and robust construction

+ Look pretty good!

Cons:

- Isolation could be better

- Price ($250-$400)

While not necessarily a deal for the budding DJ, these headphones are an uncompromising tool that are well suited to both the booth and the studio.