Quad Era-1 planar magnetic over-ear headphones

This exploded view of the Quad ERA-1 shows the intricate design of the planar magnetic drivers. Debut headphones from a classic UK audio company I first auditioned the Quad ERA-1 headphones with the recently released 50th Anniversary re-master of the Beatles' White Album . It just seemed appropriate. These headphones could also be seen as a "reissue" of a longtime British audio favorite. They are tuned to emulate the classic sound of Quad's vintage ESL 57 electrostatic floor-standing speakers. And like The White Album , these ERA-1 'phones reward repeat listening. This the very first set of headphones in Quad's illustrious 80-year-plus history. They use planar-magnetic drivers to deliver a spacious, mids-forward sound with deep, authoritative bass. Brand-new details leapt from familiar tracks, drawing me deeper into "Dear Prudence," "Blackbird," and "Don't Pass Me By." I heard hidden bits of percussion and musical artifacts that made each song even more enjoyable. Named InnerFidelity 's "Product of the Year" by audio expert Rafe Arnott "The Quad ERA-1 headphones get my nod as InnerFidelity Product of The Year 2018 ...Incredibly comfortable, non-fatiguing, huge-sounding, tonally and timbrally pleasing set of headphones with outstanding resolution that breaks the sub-$1,000 barrier. - Read the full article on InnerFidelity A solid build and a secure, comfortable fit The industrial-styled ERA-1 headphones felt sturdy and rugged as I pulled them from the box. They fit snugly on my head and felt light and well-cushioned. Generously padded leather lines the headband, and you have a choice between two different pairs of included ear pads. Thinner, cloth-covered pads come attached. They offer a nice soft grip, but I preferred the fit of the thicker sheepskin ear pads that came in the box. Those pads are also perforated and lend a slightly different sound signature that I found even more pleasing. How the planar magnetic drivers work Unlike the dynamic drivers found in