Each birch cherry wood earcup housing is finished using a traditional Japanese lacquer method.

Top-flight headphones from the personal audio pioneers

In many ways, Fostex helped usher in the high-end, audiophile headphone boom that we're currently in. And the Japanese company's TH-900 MK2 model has helped accelerate it. Going back to the 70s, Fostex studio headphones were popular among hardcore headphone enthusiasts. And they were one of the first companies to treat a sweet headphone amp setup like a serious alternative to a traditional high-end home stereo — for those of who either can't fit or can't always crank up a two-channel speaker system in our home.

Beautifully sculpted and finished earcups

Just how serious are we talking? Take a look at the video in the carousel above that shows the traditional Japanese "Urushi" lacquer process. Each birch cherry wood earcup is sculpted and sanded, then coated with that striking red finish. It is almost mesmerizing to see the Fostex crew at work — they show such great care and attention to detail.

And the housings don't just look and feel deluxe, they serve a musical purpose. The wood helps give the sound a clean, organic feel. And the earcups keep external noise from leaking in — and your music from escaping out.

Effortless, transparent sound

Of course, it's kind of like ordering at at a nice restaurant: as cool as it is to watch a master chef at work, you're really only pleased if the dish delivers. And these are some tasty-sounding headphones. Rich, musical detail across a wide soundstage.

How many times have we all heard "You Don't Know How It Feels" by Tom Petty? (Rest in peace!) Listening to a high-res version of the laid-back track through these 'phones, it bounced with a brand-new energy. From that abrupt, familiar opening until the song faded out, the large drivers never strained to play highs or lows — even when tested by the head-nodding percussion and blaring harmonicas.