Final Audio D8000. The Search for Perfection Ends Here
The lightning-fast speed and intricate detail of planar magnetic headphones, or the tangible power and deep emotion of dynamic drivers? It’s the choice that any true audiophile has had to make at some point — but no more will you need to choose between these two extremes.
Japanese engineers from Final Audio challenged this duality and prevailed over it by introducing the D8000 — the headphones that are not a compromise between the two worlds, but the unification of them.
Contents
Design
The D8000 housing is crafted from a machined aluminum-magnesium alloy, but thanks to the headband’s elegant design, the headphones don’t appear bulky. The model’s design is a prime example of concise minimalism: there’s no flashy branding but pure aesthetics and engineering beauty.
D8000’s stock earpads are soft and resilient, but if they’re not a perfect fit for you, Final has released three additional pairs from different materials. There are pads made of fabric, Toray Ultrasuede microfiber, and even a version with Japanese Washi paper for added durability — a technology you may recognize from the Pro version of these headphones.
Apart from providing comfort, each type of earpad affects the headphone’s sound differently. The G-type enhances the bass; the F-type offers superb air access; and the H-type improves the mid and high frequencies.
Final Audio D8000 is available in two finishes: a silver version with an exposed metal texture and a version with all-black earcups. Both look as stylish as they come, and the all-black version somewhat reminded us of the Sony cameras’ coating — if you had them, you know what that means.
Beneath the visual purity of the D8000's design lies an equally meticulous organization of its internal space. There’s pretty much nothing that could break there, and you could always upgrade the headphones later down the line with no worry in mind. This commitment to long-term use and serviceability is another huge bonus of Final Audio’s masterpiece.
Soundstage
Final positions the D8000 as planar headphones with a unique diaphragm design that provides far superior bass purity compared to traditional planar magnetic structures. In other headphones, low frequencies cause the diaphragm to make contact with the magnets, which distorts the sound. But Final Audio D8000 completely bypasses this issue.
There’s exactly zero spatial and tonal compression in D8000, and any excessive heat is virtually non-existent, too. As a result, you hear the sound exactly as it was recorded in the studio. If the sound engineer failed to clean up even the tiniest bit of noise from the recording, you’ll know it.
To give you a better understanding of D8000’s soundstage, let’s quickly compare it to some other models. Audeze LCD-3, for one, also uses the planar tech, but many find it too heavy for extended use. Dan Clark Audio Expanse is an excellent alternative in terms of detail and nuances. Finally, Abyss Diana DZ Violet Abalone is another similar headphone that would satisfy even the most demanding audiophile all the same.
Final Thoughts
The real question is, who is the Final Audio D8000 for? The answer is simple. These headphones are for the audiophiles who seek not only a clear sound with a wide soundstage but also fantastic low frequencies. D8000 is great for focused listening sessions at home, and, coupled with a stationary amplifier, it will take your sound experience to a whole new level.
Is there anything better on the market? Quite frankly, we don’t think so. Final Audio D8000 is the ultimate masterpiece of Japanese engineering, and few could even hope to compare to it, let alone try and surpass it.
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Final Audio
Headphone type: wired
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Final Audio
Headphone type: wired
Brand: Final Audio
Headphone type: wired
The lowest frequency, Hz: 20
If you’d like to test D8000 with different amplifiers, earpads, and cables — which we strongly suggest you do — you’re always welcome in Dr.Head’s Dubai showroom. We’ll be happy to help you find your new perfect setup.
