Fostex TH-1000RP MK II Premium-Headphones with RP Diaphragm

Fostex TH-1000RP MK II Premium-Headphones with RP Diaphragm

The logical evolution of Fostex's flagship RP series: the new TH1000RPmk2 and TH1100RPmk2, with their planar magnetic RP drivers, offer unparalleled resolution and further optimized sound reproduction. The maple wood housing is stained with Aizome from Tokushima, Japan's renowned indigo dyeing technique, and the headphones are manufactured in Japan. This unique texture highlights the beauty of the individually varying wood grain, characteristic of traditional Aizome. Fostex's 50 years of experience in flat-diaphragm RP technology are reflected in two models of the flagship series: the closed-back TH1000RPmk2 and the open-back TH1100RPmk2.

High-quality, second-generation RP planar magnetic driver

The Premium RP driver, developed using the largest diaphragm ever used in a fully driven planar diaphragm driver based on the RP technology refined since 1974, has been further optimized with mk2 technology through internal air damping control, flow optimization using damping materials, and new ear pads. This achieves ideal diaphragm amplitude, especially in the low-frequency range. The large diaphragm and magnetic circuit of the Premium RP driver suppress unwanted resonances, ensuring precise response, high sensitivity, a smooth frequency response, and excellent transient response. Furthermore, the mk2 version is capable of reproducing soundstages from the low to the high frequencies with precise localization, delivering a faithful and clear sound.

Newly developed mk2 ear pads with a new shape and dual-layer internal structure.

The newly developed ear cushions of the mk2 models feature a beveled design that conforms to the shape of the head, providing optimal comfort. The inner low-density urethane foam is arranged in a dual-layer structure, with a soft outer layer and a highly elastic inner layer that adapts to the contours of the face. Furthermore, the use of silk-protein-based synthetic leather, which is three times more durable than the previous model, ensures superior comfort even during extended listening sessions.

Includes a 2-pole 3.5 mm connector and a high-purity OFC cable Y-cable

The mk2 version features a 2-pole 3.5 mm connector, improving cable compatibility and versatility. The internal wiring and the included unbalanced cable are made of high-purity 7N (99.99999%) OFC (oxygen-free copper) cable, which minimizes impurities and maximizes transmission performance. A separate 4.4 mm balanced cable (ET-TH4.4BL2Y) is also available.
 
Solid maple body finished with "Aizome," a traditional Japanese dyeing technique

The solid maple body, a wood renowned for its use in guitar construction, is finished with Awa Aizome from Tokushima, a wood long prized for its high-quality dyes. Skilled craftsmen meticulously hand-dye the wood, piece by piece. The result is a deep indigo blue that beautifully highlights the unique grain of the hard maple. Aizome, derived exclusively from the indigo plant, allows the density and specific gravity of the hard maple to be fully utilized without unnecessarily coloring the sound, resulting in a powerful, deep bass response and a clear, extended treble range.
 
Genuine indigo, the dye used in Aizome, is a natural dye with a long history in Japan and was even used in Ukiyo-e prints of the Edo period. Among indigo dyes, Awa Aizome from Tokushima has long been known throughout Japan as an essential dye for high-quality dyed goods because of its rich and luxurious appearance. The cases of the TH1000RPmk2 and TH1100RPmk2 are dyed with Aizome, which consists exclusively of natural Tade indigo that does not damage the wood. It is applied repeatedly by hand over a period of several days, with curing time in between. During this process, fluctuations in temperature and humidity affect the drying of the dye, and the conditions under which the fine color particles penetrate the wood structure vary depending on the grain of the individual case. The result is a unique case with a deep blue hue that is unique to Indigo, while the smooth grain of the maple wood is beautifully showcased, and the texture of each case is always slightly different.

New, lightweight mechanical parts made of a magnesium alloy

A redesigned magnesium alloy construction for mechanical components, such as the base plate and suspension, helps reduce the overall weight by 20% compared to aluminum. A rubber gasket is used for the swivel mechanism to minimize excessive vibration. The meticulous design approach, which considers every detail of each component, further enhances wearing comfort.

Flexibly adjustable headband and padding

The headband and padding are crafted from natural sheepskin leather, providing a supple and comfortable fit.

7N-OFC cable for internal wiring and high-quality connector

Both the detachable headphone jack and the detachable external connector are rhodium-plated. A balanced connection is also supported with the optional XLR cable (ET-H3.0N7BL), and a balanced 4.4 mm cable (ET-TH4.4BL) is planned for release.

Includes high-purity OFC cable (unbalanced)

Included is a high-purity 7N-OFC cable (Oxygen Free Copper, 99.999999%), which eliminates impurities to the utmost and improves transmission performance.

Specifications:

• Driver: Dynamic, RP planar magnetic
• Design: Closed
• Impedance: 32 ohms
• Sensitivity: 100dB (@1kHz, 1mW)
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 40 kHz
• Max. Input Power: 3,000mW
• Weight: 420g (without cable)
• Cable: 2 m, detachable
• Connectors: 2x 3.5 mm (2-pole) to 6.3 mm (gold-plated, 3-pole), 2 m, unbalanced
• Accessories: Leatherette case, user manual